The Leader in Spain 31 October 22 – Edition 943

Thursdaysaw the work begin in earnest on the new leisure area in the Port of Torrevieja, a private initiative that is being built in Paseo del Mar. The project was finally able to get underway following the recent opening of the new fish market.

Bulldozers began to tear down buildings previously used by the fishing fleet, erected in the 1960s, where fishermen, from the small boats and trawlers, would spread and mend their fishing gear.

Excavation has also begun of the underground car park which will have two floors with a capacity of 650 parking spaces, in the area between the new fish market and the old uncovered car park.

The leisure area will have 8,500 square metres of gross leasable area, distributed among 27 premises with cinemas, bowling alley and restaurant franchises distributed in six two-storey buildings, connected by walkways, with terraces and viewpoints to the bay.

The concession as a whole totals 18,000 square metres and will in turn be connected to the cantilever promenade of the Levante dock, whose renovation work is still pending tender by the City Council.

There will only be trading units if they are linked to a nautical activity, according to the restriction placed by the Generalitat’s Port Authority.

In the old fish market, the operators dismantled the popular El Isla kiosk, which will be relocated by the access to the new fish market, next to the factory that provides ice for the boats. A company that offers tourism fishing experiences will also be accommodated in an area by the access to the same facility.

The leisure centre will be called "Paseo del Mar" and will have 8,500 meters of premises for rent.

In the coming days, a company of specialists will begin the work of removing the asbestos-cement roof of the old fish market buildings, to carry out its demolition.

In recent months, the old Customs building has also been refurbished, and now looks likely to house staff from the Tax Agency, the ports authority and a Civil Guard checkpoint.

Torrevieja Leisure Port

Initially, the building, which is already furnished will not lodge any municipal offices, something that the Torrevieja City Council had requested. When these officials are installed in their new work area, the adjacent building, dating back to the 1940’s, and previously used by the Captaincy and the ports authority, will be demolished.

The start of the works has forced traffic to be diverted in this central area of the city. The port avenue that crosses it is now two-way, with an entry and exit lane both at the access to the Casino and from the Paseo de Juan Aparicio.

The open air car park that previously offered hundreds of spaces and was very popular among foreign residents, enabling them to get close to the centre, has also already been closed. Its disappearance has added much to the anxiety of drivers as they look for parking in the city centre and in the network of underground car parks.

LOCAL VICAR BACK IN PRINT

AuthorA.N. Drew has

Sacred Memoirs of a Retired Failure with The Conrad Press.

Sacred Memoirs of a Retired Failure is a love story with an unusual take on retirement and bereavement which few will have experienced.

The author explains,‘I wanted to write about how retirement can be a new episode in life, challenging and exciting.

Retirement is hard work if it is to be successful. I was concerned about how retirement, coupled with recent bereavement, can cause extreme loneliness. A huge hole which seems impossible to fill. The main character, Doug, is on his own and cannot find happiness, or even fulfilment. He wishes to hide his past, and feels his career was a failure.’

As this remarkable book shows, both in an entertaining and enlightened way, retirement is a life challenge in itself. The busy hub of life is ended and there is time to evaluate. If recent bereavement is added to the equation, contemplating the future may be almost unbearable.

A.N. Drew continues, ‘I have many issues with churches and how badly some people are treated. I ask the question ‘Where is love?’ As I thought about these issues, it seemed a good idea to write a novel about a man who for almost 40 years had obeyed the

rules and played the game. The main character is a retired vicar who is almost ashamed of his past, who feels a failure and is desperately seeking to find some meaning in his retirement.’

Anyone approaching or struggling with retirement will really connect with this book but the story is for anyone looking for a different take on an old theme. With romance involved.

A.N. Drew is the pen name for the Revd Andrew Rea, pictured right, who lives in beautiful olive groves in Murcia. This book is proving so popular that the author is already writing a sequel!

Sacred Memoirs of a Retired Failure by A.N. Drew is available on Amazon as a paperback and Kindle edition.

T R Y

Mum, hope all is well up in Heaven

Down here's in a bit of a mess

The government's made such a 'cock up'

There are homes in financial distress

The world has gone totally crazy

Just to live is becoming a chore

The rich just get richer and richer

By draining the life from the poor

Food banks are a need and soup kitchens

Are an echo from back in the past

When Charles Dickens wrote stories of hardship

Never thinking that hardship would last

Mum you'd be gob smacked at prices

From bread to tea bags and the like

And train fares and bus fares expensive So many now ride on their bike

It's a pantomime world at the moment

With tales you just couldn't make up

There's many a poor Cinderella Though the Baron's are never Hardup

Oh! Mum you would weep at the horrors A Europe, war torn by one man You wouldn't believe how we live now But we endeavour to do what we can

I hope that you're living a rich life One that you really deserve Cos down here you'd be dreading the winter And the bills that are now quite absurd

Greed has enveloped the world now There's also a lack of regard "I'm all right Jack" sums up the problems But I'm praying each night very hard

I wish you were here to pray with me Though that's selfish but very sincere I suppose my world's in such a turmoil Because mum you're no longer here.

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 PARTOF THIS NEWSPAPER MAYBE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENTOF THE PUBLISHERS.

Recreation with an aerial view of the leisure area distributed in six buildings linked by walkways.

Above, to the top right, is the new fish market which is now in use.

by David Whitneyby David Whitney

October 2022

Revd Andrew Rea

TheGuardia Civil has broken up a massive European-wide drug distribution network, following house raids on the Orihuela Costa, Torrevieja, San Miguel de Salinas, Crevillent, Agost, MirandaCartagena and Balsicas-Torre Pacheco.

Code named Operation Hermar, the action has resulted in a large quantity of drugs, vehicles, mobile devices, documentation and weapons being seized, with three of those arrested being remanded in custody by Orihuela courts.

The investigations began in January 2022, at the AlicanteElche Miguel Hernández Airport, when two packages were intercepted containing more than 2,200 kilograms of hashish bound for France.

The seizure saw two 28-year-old French men identified, who, habitually and with forged documentation, had been sending parcels to France, Belgium and the Netherlands.

Further enquiries found British, French and Russian criminals were also using minors to sell drugs as they too smuggled large amounts of cannabis across the borders into Belgium and the Netherlands.

Officers located their homes, all of which were found to be in Orihuela Costa.

In February, at the Valencia-Manises Airport, two further packages with more than 2 kilograms of marijuana and destined for the Netherlands, were intercepted.

The supplier of these drugs was identified as a 30-year-old British citizen and resident of Orihuela Costa. He, along with others, also under investigation, owned 5 indoor marijuana plantations throughout the province of Alicante.

When the criminals realised that their packages were not arriving at their destinations, they changed their modus operandi, then making their subsequent drug shipments from an ordinary post office. In addition, they suffered a robbery themselves in which they lost goods worth more than 70,000 euros, so they were forced to improve their security, for which they moved to a new, more secure address and also acquired various weapons.

All the while their movements and actions were being monitored and tracked by the Guardia Civil.

The final phase of the police operation got underway on 28

September, carrying out nine house entries and searches in Orihuela Costa, Torrevieja, San Miguel de Salinas, Crevillente, Agost, Miranda-Cartagena (Murcia), Balsicas-Torre Pacheco (Murcia), and also a new one in a clandestine cannabis association in Orihuela Costa.

A total of eight men, aged between 23 and 50 years, of French, British, Russian, Bolivian, Colombian and Spanish nationality, as well as a British minor were arrested. On the following day two women of Bulgarian and Colombian nationality, aged 27 and 38, were also taken into custody for the same crimes.

During the operation, 479 marijuana plants, 4 kilograms of hashish, more than 10 kilograms of marijuana buds, 100 millilitres of pure tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) normally used to vape with electronic cigarettes, other quantities of minor drugs such as cocaine, ecstasy (MDMA) and hashish oil, more than 70,000 euro, 2 short firearms, 1 camouflaged taser flashlight weapon, 2 large machetes, 4 tourism-type vehicles, 2 vans, 1 large-capacity motorcycle and a jet ski were all seized, along with forged official personal identification documentation.

The three ringleaders of the organisation are all currently being held in custody without bail.

With the operation now completed, the Guardia Civil has dealt another blow to international drug trafficking in the provinces of Alicante and Murcia.

B B R R ITI ITI S S H ANH AN D FD F R R E E NC NC H H DRUG DRUG S BS B U U ST ONST ON TH TH E ORE OR II H H U U E E LA COSTLA COSTA A

TORREVIEJA TOWN HALL EXPLAINS CHRISTMAS LIGHTING PLANS

Torrevieja town hall is about to begin installing the Christmas lights in the municipality, at a cost to the public purse far greater than many other municipalities, but they have justified the extra expense by saying that they will dress some sixty streets, walkways, and squares, placing more than 570 arches and streetlight motifs that will shine between 26 November 2022 and 6 January 2023.

They also explain that despite the increase, they will consume 30 percent less electricity, as they will be high-efficiency LED lights, although the 30 percent increase is compared to them being traditional lighting units, and will be less of a saving due to the increase.

Martin the artist opens his studio to the public

The Councillor for Festivities, Concha Sala, has also explained that, deciding to follow the guidance of the regional government, the lights will only be switched on from 6:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m., rather than 7:00 a.m. as in previous years.

The electrical installation has been reinforced and renovated with the provision of new wiring, electrical panels, and new magneto-thermal clocks that will offer better performance, they say. The Local Government Board ratified the decision of the Contracting Committee to definitively award the lighting contract to Servicio Integral de Instalaciones Eléctricas Radiluz SL, for an amount of 291,152.36 euro plus IVA.

Abandonment, apathy, neglect and shame are just a few of the comments that residents of Orihuela Costa are making about the management by the City Council of the refuse collection service, as containers across the whole region continue to overflow.

services expired in February.

REGULAR OCCURENCE

This is not an isolated location, nor is it taking place during the busy tourist season. Many bins can be found overflowing into the streets, pretty much anytime, across the entire Orihuela Costa

Responding

to the many people who have indicated their wish to visit Martinís studio, he has decided to have an open day on Wednesday 9th November.

Perhaps best known for his life studies and life drawing classes, he paints all subjects in various media from pastel pet portraits to bright oils paintings of flamenco dancers.

Anyone is welcome to visit, browse, chat to the artist, have a (free) glass of wine & perhaps pick up a bargain.

There will be many freebies & cheapies from his extensive stock of paintings, as well as the chance to commission your own pieces at reasonable cost.

Located in Pueblo Lucero, Rojales in Calle Venus (Maite 2), his studio will be open from 11am to 5pm.

Although a fairly common complaint, in addition illegal dumping of pruning and equipment, the collection has now been reduced because the service has only two collection trucks for the entire coastline, according to sources and of the 18 trucks that the municipality for collecting general waste, five are damaged and two others have problems.

The same sources indicate that there is no way of getting them repaired, since the contract for vehicle repair and maintenance

RYANAIR GROUND STAFF CALL OFF STRIKE

The USO-Sector Aéreo union,representing ground staff at 22 Spanish airports,called off their strike which was due to start last Friday,and now plan to take action over what they consider to be abuse by the Ministry of Transport.

The strike,due to begin on 28

Until now it has continued to work until the credit allocated to that service has been exhausted, but now, the Councillor for Street Cleaning and Urban Solid Waste, Guillermo Cánovas (PSOE), has said that the local administration is in the process of negotiating a new contract, although he says the process is very slow beyond which he is unable to specify deadlines.

Neighbourhood Associations are calling it, "a serious problem of public hygiene and health", adding that the broken trucks is the straw that breaks the camel's back, which translates into "a serious and irresponsible lack of action by the people who run this council”.

"It is a time bomb that has been ticking away for the last two

October until January 8,and to which the entire workforce of the Azul Handling group -Ryanair DAC and Ihandling Aviation Airlines Airport - at 22 Spanish airports,was called off after the action was considered fruitless due to the implementation of a minimum guarantee of services by the Spanish Government,making it "impossible for the workers to carry out the strike".

government terms and very soon it will explode", because "the situation is seriously worsening every day", according to sources from the Cabo Roig and Lomas Neighborhood Association, who point out that " the current government team is doing very badly, but it is also a situation they have inherited from the previous administration".

They state that "Orihuela Costa has been totally abandoned to its fate in street cleaning, rubbish collection, garden maintenance and all kinds of other necessary infrastructure" to the point of concluding that the coalition government of the PSOE and Ciudadanos should "provide explanations and apologise for forcing residents to live in such a disgraceful way".

In a statement to the affiliates, USO-Sector Aéreo describes the Resolution of minimum services as "abusive and clearly detrimental to the exercise of the right to strike,making it unfeasible."

For this reason,the union called off the strike on Thursday night and announced the challenge of these minimum services in the coming days " for violation of fundamental rights."

R U B B I S H C O L L E C T I O N S E R V I C E C O L L A P S E S I N O R I H U E L A C O S T A

Orihuela Ciudadanos Councillors to answer corruption allegations

The pair are being investigated for a possible crime of administrative fabrication, following a complaint filed last November by the councillors of Cambiemos, before the AntiCorruption Prosecutor, regarding irregularities in the contracts for the maintenance and conservation of green areas, parks and gardens in Orihuela Costa.

The summons, which was entered into the City Council register on Monday calls upon the two councillors to attend court on March 13 at 10:00 a.m. to take a statement about events that, according to the complaint, occurred when Boné was councillor for Beaches, between 2017 and 2019, and Noguera, the councillor for Infrastructure, from 2019 to the present time.

The reported events are also said to name Juan Ignacio López-Bas (Ciudadanos), Councillor for Infrastructure between 2017 and 2019; Sabina Goretti Galindo (PP), Councillor of Contracting from 2019 until the motion of censure on April 25 this year, and Francisco Manuel Sáez Sironi (PP), a member of the Contracting team, between 2017 and 2019, although the last three have

not been cited as being under investigation.

The three Cambiemos Councillors, Carlos Bernabé, María García Sandoval and Javier Gracia, handed in the complaint, along with 40 documents.

The Investigating Court will now study the documents to ascertain whether the evidence constitutes a crime for prevarication and embezzlement of public funds, in a service that had been provided without a contract for more than five years.

Cambiemos also allege that many of the services that the company Actúa was engaged to undertake, were actually carried out by other companies through minor contracts or tenders, which meant paying twice for the same service".

TwoCiudadanos Councillors, Luisa Boné and Ángel Noguera, both members of the current Orihuela Government, have been summoned by the Investigating Court of Orihuela, to answer allegations made against them in preliminary investigation proceedings.

Pilar de la Horadada to pedestrianise town centre

TheCouncillor for Infrastructure, Rufino Lancharro, announced on Friday that the council is to carry the temporary pedestrianisation of twelve streets in the town centre that surround the Town Hall building and the Parish Church.

Initially the streets selected will be marked with vertical signage and cut off by planters and flower pots which will be used to prevent the passage of vehicles.

The councillor said that he hoped that the trial will generate additional commercial activity, ggenerate more of a cafe culture, as well as turning the area "into a friendlier space for pedestrians, reduce the presence of motor vehicles in the narrowest streets and contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions into the atmosphere."

The streets that will close during the first week of November are calle del Mar, calle Revendo Manuel Puigcerver, calle Doctor Marañón, calle Vivaldi, calle Diagonal, calle Doctor Fleming, calle Pedro Gea, calle Almirante Manuel Rebollo García, and calle La Isla and calle Escultor Manuel Ribera Girona as far as the intersection with calle Triana.

Lancharro added that there are more and more

empty commercial properties in the centre of Pilar into which it is necessary to encourage business. He said that the council is also considering a reduction in municipal fees and suma for such entrepreneurs and if the trial works well a number of adjoining streets will also be closed.

Why was the plan to scrap seasonal time changes not implemented?

The European Parliament supported the proposal to scrap time changes, suggesting that it be scrapped in 2021. EU govts, however, could not agree on what basis this would be done.

These disagreements revolved around who would benefit the most from the changes.

An additional problem was Brexit, meaning the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland would have two different time zones at times.

Spain Retirement pensions are set to go up in January

It has been estimated that the average pension will be about 1,365 euros a month in 2023, which is due to the 8.5% increase caused by inflation.

The average retirement pension reached record figures this year, amounting to 1,257.90 euros this month, nearly 65 euros a month more than at this time last year.

Guardia Civil Officer kills ex-partner

A civil guard officer, who had travelled from Valladolid to Brussels, has killed his ex-partner, a 23-year - old nurse from Valladolid,who lived in the Belgian capital.

The tragedy took place on Thursday night, when the victim went to work as a nurse, and after she refused to travel back to Spain with her assailant, he stabbed her to death.

The officer then tried to commit suicide by throwing himself out of her apartment window

Spain rolls out high tech traffic cones to help reduce road accidents

In order to reduce road accidents, Spain's Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has now designed new hightech devices to provide more warning of road works ahead: they are called smart cones.

These are like regular traffic cones, but they are GPS geo-located and have flashing lights.

María

2023,

At

With doctors warning

In

They can prevent accidents by giving warnings in real time.

Twelve streets are to be closed around the Parish Church and the Town Hall

SAN FULGENCIO RELEASE ‘YOUTH PLAN’ FOR 2022 - 2025

San Fulgencio Council has given the green light to its Municipal Youth Plan for the period 2022-2025.

Councillor Samantha Hull told The Leader, "for the first time we have a roadmap that responds to the needs of young people in the

town, in addition to improving municipal services and benefits aimed especially at them.”

This plan has been drawn up through a participatory process involving politicians, municipal and teaching staff and local experts, as well as the young people of the municipality

Samantha Hull appealed for anyone with ideas to get in touch

themselves, who have taken part. "It was very important for us to involve young people in the design and planning of the proposal, as well as in its development and evaluation," said Hull.

The document has given priority to six areas: the housing situation and the difficulty of emancipation of young people; equality, studies and training; health and well-being; leisure and free time; and their contribution to local society.

Hull said that "within each of these areas, the Council has developed numerous measures and actions to meet their demands, which we

will soon begin to implement and see develop".

Hull also pointed out that the success of the plan will depend "not only on the will of the public authorities, but also on the participation and initiative shown by the young people themselves".

She appealed "to our young people and social partners involved in this area, so that they do not hesitate to participate, and if they have suggestions that they feel might contribute they should come to my office and speak to me personally.”

Where did you get that hat?

Hatswere commonplace before 3000 BC. One of the earliest known hats was worn by a Bronze Age man called Otzi -- was his name written inside his hat?

Otzi was found frozen inside a mountain between Italy and Austria, where he had lain since 3250 BC. Presumably his hat had long since ceased to keep his head warm, but it was a bearskin cap, so he must have been a pretty tough guy when he was alive.

There are so many reasons for wearing hats that I find myself scratching my head as to where to begin, or at least I think that's why I'm scratching my head. There are hats for protection against the weather, ceremonial hats, hard hats to prevent injury, military hats to denote rank or regiment, hats as fashion accessories, and modern police helmets which are much more difficult to knock off with a snowball than the old-fashioned ones were. (So I'm told, and I have an alibi if necessary.)

Some hats are associated with certain people. Sherlock Holmes sported a 'deerstalker', Davy Crockett, "King of the Wild Frontier", wore a raccoon cap (dead) on his head.

Napoleon, Tommy Cooper, Tam o' Shanter, Lady Gaga, they all had, or have, their own signature styles in millinery.

The term 'milliner' comes from the Italian city of Milan, but other brands are available.

Not sure if you can still buy a Dunce's cap, though!

All guests in the Royal Enclosure at Ascot must wear a hat, and they wouldn't let me in without one. The horse I backed came in last, anyway.

Royal personages sometimes have to don crowns, although the humorous writers Sellar and Yeatman warned that "Uneasy lies the head that wears a Throne."

It must be comforting to live in the city of Medicine Hat in Canada, which is the sunniest place in the country and also presumably the healthiest, as long as you remember to take your medicine. (I do worry slightly about the inhabitants of Saltcoats in Scotland -- are they always thirsty? Given the town's location, probably.)

Stetson in America bears the same name as the cowboy hat manufacturer, although they also made hats for the Canadian 'Mounties'. If you want to get ahead, or a horse,

get a hat.

Women still wear hats these days but men less frequently do. I must admit that I find most women's hats inscrutable (and most women too).

Nowadays the only practical use of a top hat, for example, would be for a magician to produce a rabbit out of it, something probably forbidden by animal welfare regulations.

Magicians, like rabbits, are a dying breed, and if you are someone struggling to keep old traditions alive, well, what can I say? I take my hat off to you.

Torrevieja Hospital Still Not Showing Signs of Recovery

Little more than a year after the reversion to the public system of the Torrevieja hospital, the situation in the hospital centre is still being described as chaotic, as information released by staff shows that the services continue to decline, despite the busiest period of the year in terms of tourism being over.

They say that the waiting list for surgery has increased by 231 percent, going from the 1,300 patients in 2021, to almost 3,000 this year. In addition, the waiting list to be seen by a specialist has grown by more than 8,000 people, from 6,052 patients in 2021 to 14,000 this year, many of whom are still without an assigned appointment.

€70bn euro EU windfall makes Spain second biggest receiver of funds

SPAIN has been the beneficiary of 70 billion from the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), with 30 billion now released, making Spain the second biggest receiver of the funds, behind Italy.

The Spanish government said the finance has been a ‘defining moment for the economy.’

Manuel de la Rocha, head of economic affairs in the Prime Minister’s office said: “The European funds are benefiting this country tremendously, as it moves to the modernisation of the economy.

As the winter months approach, it is believed Spain is now in a much better place than most of its European neighbours - when it comes to facing economic challenges upon us.

Corvera Airport Starts Winter Schedule

The Region de Murcia International Airport (RMU), commonly known as Corvera Airport, has launched the winter schedule that will connect the region with ten destinations in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Belgium, Morocco and the Canary Islands during the autumn and winter campaign.

The airlines will offer 181,800 seats and 1,096 flights during the new season, which operates between 30 October until 25 March, 2023.

Ryanair will fly to Birmingham and Manchester in the UK, and to the Irish capital, Dublin.

EasyJet will connect the region with London's Gatwick airport.

Wednesday is a 3 month old fully vaccinated,passport and microchipped, medium/large crossbreed who just needs a loving,forever home.

Have you got that to offer?

Optical and audiology centre praised for high standards

JorgeMartinez, Store Director of Specsavers Ópticas y Audiologia in Benidorm was proud to receive the 2022-2023 SICTED Certification, officially recognising their excellence in customer service and support for the tourist sector in Benidorm. This national scheme from the Spanish Tourism Department aims to improve standards and tourists’ experiences of Spain and was presented as part of the World Tourism Day celebrations, held in the Salon de Actos at Benidorm Town Hall.

This took place during the store’s Open Week to celebrate the launch of its new audiology service. During the week the store gave away vouchers for 250 euro off hearing aids, collected items for children and babies for the Red Cross and performed hearing screenings.

They also gave away some great prizes on their Wheel of Fortune game and María Martínez Escobar was the lucky winner of the raffle, winning a pair of digital hearing aids.

Jorge Martinez, director of the store commented, “It is a real honour to receive the SICTED Certification once again for customer service and providing services and support to Benidorm’s tourists and international residents. It was very timely to take place during

our launch week for our new hearing care service, which has been very much in demand from our international community for many years.

“Many thanks to everyone who came to celebrate our Open Week and has continued to come in this month to find out more about what we offer. I am very proud to be offering the Benidorm community professional hearing tests, competitively priced hearing aids and a 4-year guarantee, as well as the knowledge and experience which comes from the established brand of Specsavers. We welcome anyone to come in and get a quick and free hearing screening to check everything is OK.”

There are four audiologists in store, supporting people with their hearing. They offer a range of services including hearing tests, hearing aid sales and are introducing Phonak hearing aid repairs. The team is also on hand to provide general guidance and support around hearing health – from hearing protection for those exposed to loud music, to advice for customers who work in noisy industries, like construction.

The new audiology centre offers the latest technology, including digital photography for ear examinations. Customers can have a

short screening test to check if they have any hearing issues, as well as complete hearing assessments if required. Both tests are free of charge.

It is located within Specsavers Ópticas on Calle Gambo 2, Benidorm, Alicante, 03503.

This service is offered alongside the optical service, so customers can now have both their vision and hearing tested and get glasses, contact lenses and hearing aids in one place.

The store is open 10.00-18.00 Monday to Friday, with late opening on Wednesday until 20.00, it is also open on Saturday from 10.00-13.00 and hearing and sight tests are free.

Find out more at www.specsavers.es

Jorge Martinez, director of the store, receiving the SICTED Certification

A newspaper is a circulating library …

Ihavea friend down in Cork: Brian Kearney is not only the guy who got me into walking, but I would also rate him as one of the best ‘spinners of a yarn’ I have ever come across.

One such story gives me the opening for this week’s article; as it demonstrates the importance of the newspaper and how we used to be so very attached to our favourite paper.

Brian and a business colleague were at a conference; I think it may have been in Galway. Anyway, it was in a top hotel. Down for breakfast and the friend went over to the desk to pick up one of the courtesy daily newspapers left by reception. After turning over ‘The Irish Times’, ‘The Irish Independent’, and maybe a couple of others; the man turned to the receptionist and asked; “Have u de paper?’ The ever-helpful lady replied, “yes Sir” and nodded towards the stacks on the desk. Her guest was far from happy. “De paper … de paper, Alanah, de Examiner … where is de ‘Cork Examiner’?” “I’m sorry, Sir; we don’t have that one; but I’m sure I can send out and get you one, if it is important?” “IMPORTANT … IMPORTANT … it is VITAL!” replied the businessman sardonically – and sure enough, by the time he had started his breakfast there was a ‘Cork Examiner’ delivered to his table.

This little story tells how important the newspaper was not so very long ago. Other nationalities are often surprised at how literate and well up are ordinary Irish people. This was all down to the fact that we were all unwavering lovers of newspapers; daily, Sunday – and most importantly of all, our local paper. Here you could read about people we knew – and even ourselves, as early as we started playing schools and under-age hurling. The contents of newspapers was consumed, stored and discussed by families, friends and neighbours. I remember two of our neighbour’s houses, Forde’s and Harris’; one got ‘The Irish Press’ and the other ‘The Irish Independent’. Every night the two

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.

papers were exchanged, so that nothing was missed and the news therein could be compared!

Once upon a time, I couldn’t properly function until I got that day’s paper in my hand. I gave it three ‘readings’. The first and hurried one took in ‘the deaths’, a cursory leafing through the pages, mentally noting what was of primary interest for a second reading and then I devoured the sports pages. The second reading consisted of reading the stuff I had found of greatest interest in my initial perusal. Last thing that night was a fuller gleaning and also doing the crossword.

I heard recently from a ‘friend of a friend’, high up in the newspaper industry, that they expect the printed daily paper to be gone in five years. This saddens me no end – even though the weekend editions and the provincial papers do have a future in its printed form. I sure hope we hold onto at least that much – but I don’t believe the situation is as critical as it appears at the moment.

There must be a lot of people like me who don’t want to get their news and views on Twitter or social media. I can’t do it … I don’t actually go for the daily paper any more – but most times I’ll still buy it if I’m in the shop. I have access to ‘The Irish Times’ epaper – but half the time I don’t even open it.

As for ‘The Examiner’, or whatever your local paper is; nothing quite compares to the feeling of picking up our own paper in the shop. The texture of the feel of that paper between your fingers and few ever leave that shop without first reading most of the front page. Local newspapers provide a service to their communities that no other outlet can. Please, somebody tell me that ‘the paper’ isn’t going to go the way of the dodo. Even if you say so; I won’t believe you, because it hurts too much. But, I have a sliver of hope which says that you are wrong.

Bernie has published four books; ëIf Ever a Man Sufferedí, ëThe Best of Bernieí, ëThe Teamí, and ëJust Between Ourselvesí.

Bernieís books are available at half price, on sale from either Spanish Solutions or ëThe Leader.íCall 637 227 385 for info.

GARDEN FELIX -Snake plant - Mother-in-Laws tongue!

Snake plant - Sansevieria - a striking plant, with swordlike leaves, that give it the nickname 'Mother-in-Law's tongue'!

There are several different varieties to choose from that all have slightly different shapes and leaf colours to fit in any garden.

The snake plant always looks fresh and is incredibly low maintenance, as it needs hardly any care and can survive long periods of neglect.

Not fussy about its location and needing little watering, it's virtually indestructible.

Plant in spring, in a bright spot, out of direct sunshine with added grit. It will cope in a dark corner, but may lose some of its attractive variegation on the leaves.

They don't need much water, so just water whenever the soil is dry to the touch. Do not let the plant sit in water, as this may cause root-rot.

Ninety-five per cent of people in Finland aged 15 and over read newspapers, according to a survey from the National Media Unit (KMT) Reading is very evenly distributed across

age, occupational and income groups. The good news is that wellover half of these readers are opting for hard copy printed papers.

We need our printed papers; something you can leave down and go back to at your leisure. We need honest reporting and accurate journalism by reputable journalists – and not the outrageous rubbish that any yahoo can post on Twitter.

We have unbiased news at our fingertips in this country. This cannot be taken for granted – as we can see from what is happening in other ‘civilised’ countries.

Think about it and support our newspapers. Once again we fall back on the adage; ‘If you don’t use it, you lose it.’

DON’T FORGET

Tomorrow’s history will consist of today’s current events.

Feed once a month, from April to September, with a liquid fertiliser.

Wipe the leaves occasionally, to prevent dust building up. Be careful not to damage the leaf tips, as this will stop growth.

Propagate by taking leaf cuttings, but the simplest method is by dividing.

Using a knife, carefully cut away a leaf and a piece of root, and plant it up in a small pot of compost. Water in well, and put the cutting in a bright spot, out of direct sunlight.

Yellow leaves are a sign of over-watering, especially in winter, as then they need very little water.

Wrinkled leaves mean you may have underwatered your plant. So lightly water it over a few days and it should then perk up.

Note: Snake plants are midly toxic to humans, cats and dogs, if eaten.

Torrevieja Health Authority gets new boss

VETERANS CLUB WELCOMES MABS

On Tuesday 25th October 26 people attended the RBL Veterans’ Club at The Captains Table, Punta Prima, Torrevieja.

Dr.

José Cano will be the new manager of the Torrevieja health department. He has replaced Pilar Santos, the manager since October 2021 when Ribera Salud lost the private contract, handing control over to Public Health.

Cano had previously been the director of the public health centre for the departments of Torrevieja and Orihuela, a post he had held since September 2003.

The new boss has a degree in medicine and surgery from the Faculty of Medicine of Murcia (1982), a doctorate in Medicine and Surgery from the Miguel Hernández University of Elche, he is a specialist in Family and Community Medicine, and he has a master's degree in Health Economics and Management of Sanitary Services from the University of Alicante.

One of Cano's strengths is that he has served as head of public health under governments of different colours, particularly during the pandemic during which Vega Baja healthcare faced many different demands.

The main aim of the new manager will be to consolidate the incorporation of the health Authority into the Valencian public

network and to continue reinforcing the resources to provide members of the public with the best standards in terms of personnel, assistance, health technology and quality of service.

The departure of Pilar Santos is broadly welcomed after harsh criticism of her management by unions, political parties, especially the PP, and the Excellent Health platforms, which still demands the return of the Ribera management, and the 100x100 Public Health Platform, which demands more investment from the Generalitat.

He will also be expected to halt the departure of essential staff after a long string of

resignations from people in the management team, in addition to those that have occurred in the Emergency Department, and of Primary Care.

During the 12 months following the departure of Ribera Salud, the private concessionaire, the health authority’s staff has fallen from 1,889 to 1,212 workers, however, in recent weeks services such as psychiatry, oncology, traumatology, nephrology, pediatrics, pathological anatomy, neurophysiology, social work, and pharmacy have all been reinforced, in addition to primary care, together with the addition of a state-of-the-art CT scan valued at 470,000 euros.

PIOC CONTINUES TO WOO CLARO

Now that PIOC is a fully legal political party in Orihuela Costa,we extend an Official Invitation to Antonio Cerdan,President of CLARO,the Executive Committee and its Membership,to hold a meeting ASAP to reach a mutual agreement on how we can work together for the benefit of Orihuela Costa.

We will meet you any time any place,ideally before your AGM next month,at Los Cucalos Restaurant Los Dolses where you hold your party meetings on Thursdays,when you are all together.

The morning commenced at 11 am with Nicola Louden putting us through our paces with half an hour of “Gentle Exercise”.

Following this exertion, everyone sat down for a well deserved rest and enjoyed refreshments, whilst having a chat, with some making new social contacts.

Our guest speaker for the morning was Jacqui Phillips, MBE, President of the well known cancer charity MABS. Jacqui gave a quality and informative talk about the comprehensive support this valued organization provides.

The geographical distance and range of services left everyone in no doubt that, should those who attended, or anyone of their family/friends, have a cancer diagnosis in the future, MABS would be there to support.

On Tuesday 29th November our speaker will be Michele Masson, President of Help Veja Baja.

The RBL Veteran Club is open to Veterans and their families. The objective is to have some fun, information, make new friends and reduce loneliness and isolation. Civilians are welcome, however a donation to the RBL Poppy Appeal is welcomed.

The meetings are held on the last Tuesday of each month at 11 am – 12.30. at the Captains Table, Punta Prima. Please contact Sandie Coates for more information.

sandysandy1979@outlook.com.

TOGETHER WE ARE STRONGER, DIVIDED ORIHEULA COSTA FAILS!

The coast needs us to be united! As we have mentioned numerous times,the elections are not a platform for independence,but for bringing equality to the coast.We are not looking for a long term marriage/partnership, NO,it is just for the next 2 elections,the coast is in its worst ever condition and it is getting worse as we write.

Put self-interests away,meet face to face, shake hands and create a unique list of fantastic Candidates from the coast to contest the elections next May 2023.

UNITED WE CAN ACHIEVE GREAT THINGS FOR THE COAST! TOGETHER!

Following his appointment, José Cano, the new boss of Torrevieja health department, meets with Cllr Diana Box and the mayor Eduardo Dolon

The Bowen Technique with Body Harmony

The Bowen Technique was pioneered by Thomas Bowen, born in Geelong, Australia. After working in miscellaneous labouring jobs as a young man, he developed a great interest in massage and body work and spent time observing football trainers and others involved with sports.

By the time he was in his early 40¥s, this gifted man had established a full time practice in remedial therapy using the technique he developed. It is amazing at the effectiveness of this simple and gentle ìhands-onî therapy.

after a series of set moves, the therapist leaves the room for a couple of minutes. This prompts the body to reset, repair and rebalance itself.

The Bowen Technique does not rely on hard pressure, it is a very light touch therapy and there is no twisting, bending or awkward repositioning of the client during the treatment. It can be performed through light clothing.

The Bowen Technique addresses many conditions, is ideal for stress and health management, and it is regarded as safe and effective for people of all ages.

Akey element of the Bowen Technique so that we work holistically and do not treat a specific condition but look at the person as a whole.

the Bowen Technique as a means of stress management and health maintenance, seeing their therapists regularly 2-4 times a year.

The Bowen Technique also addresses many other conditions and it is regarded as safe and effective for people of all ages.

The actual Bowen treatment With Bowen Technique, I am happy to work either directly onto skin or through light clothing.

The Bowen Technique is suitable for everyone, from the tiniest of babies, to athletes and frailest of adults.

It looks at restoring balance to the body by a series of very gentle rolling type moves made with the therapist¥s fingers and thumbs over precise areas of the body.

Aunique feature of the Bowen Treatment is that

What can Bowen safely treat.

Common presenting problems include back and neck pain, knee problems, sports injuries, RSI, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow and respiratory problems. Conditions such as chronic fatigue, hayfever, headache, kidney problems and problems requiring lymphatic drainage have responded favourably to Bowen Technique. Some people use

The first session will consist of a consultation during which I take notes about you, your lifestyle, conduct any assessments required and then carry out the Bowen Therapy. Treatments are normally about an hour. Every person is unique and therefore treatments and times are tailored to the individual.

An initial course of three treatments is recommended to see how the client responds to treatment, usually at weekly intervals.

Some clients will experience instant pain relief, whereas with others the body may respond over the next few days, but normally even chronic conditions will see relief with an initial set of three treatments.

It is recommended that clients are not receiving other physical thera-

pies whilst being treated with the Bowen Technique.

IF YOU FEEL THAT THE BOWEN TECHNIQUE IS ACTUALLY WHAT YOU NEED RIGHT NOW AND WOULD LIKE TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT, OR ASK FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, THEN PLEASE CONTACT CHRISTINE QUINLAN AT BODY HARMONY. Telephone number is 966 795 103..email address is bodyharmony44@gmail.com and website is bodyharmonytherapies.co.uk.

BODY HARMONY IS BASED IN LA MARINA

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

DOWN

QUICK ACROSS: 1 Prospect; 5 Keep; 9 Undo; 10 Incision; 11 Tough; 12 Ruffian; 13 Preponderance; 18 Audience; 19 Spin; 20 Torpedo; 21 Happy; 22 Rude; 23 Cylinder.

DOWN: DOWN: 2 Rancour; 3 Stopgap; 4 Contradictory; 6 Edition; 7 Penance; 8 Pilfer; 13 Platter; 14 Endured; 15 Obeyed; 16 Abstain; 17 Cripple.

CRYPTIC YPTIC ACROSS: ACROSS: 1 Escapade; 5 Adit; 9 Come; 10 Estimate; 11 Scrip; 12 Indoors; 13 Playing second; 18 Appendix; 19 Up to; 20 Scratch; 21 Ascot; 22 Dale; 23 Idealist.

DOWN: DOWN: 2 Stoical; 3 Amenity; 4 Distinguished; 6 Diabolo; 7 Tressed; 8 Fiddle; 13 Praised; 14 Apparel; 15 Ignite; 16 Counsel; 17 Notions.

ACROSS ACROSS

who receives a standard commission? (4-7)

will produce a row a long time afterwards (7)

removed from the piston or throttle (5)

the conclusion the first person is correct (5)

approval of what has been staked, one hears (7)

craft of the tailor (6)

enter into debate for the cause (6)

18.Special gifts of money at one time (7)

to watch for a second time, we hear (5)

the world trip (5)

on deriving vital inspiration? (7)

the literary men for whom these are key products (11)

DOWN DOWN

2.Make a surgical incision with a weapon (5)

3.Nobleman ranged freely over the East (7)

4.Antagonist of mean appearance? (6)

5.Describing Greek poetry in the translation I construed (5)

6.Used to provide protection for sound receivers (3-4)

7.Difference of opinion involving the leader of the council in amendment (11)

8.I deem French game has been transformed (6,2,3)

14.Big lad standing near the dressing-table (7)

16.Intent on Eastern reformation (7)

17.Boris is disturbed about a pressure line (6)

19.During the examination it revealed a chemical (5)

21.His choice comes to light during cross-examination (5)

LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ (Answers on

1. ‘Dr. Iannis had enjoyed a satisfactory day in which none of his patients had died or got any worse.’ is the opening line of which famous 20th century novel?

2. Angoroj was the first feature film to be produced entirely in which language?

3. The Wounded Knee Massacre took place on December 29, 1890 in which U.S. state?

4. Which English ventriloquist was often seen on television performing routines with his puppet, Lenny the Lion?

5. Miu Miu is a clothing line from which fashion house?

6. Which character, played by Steven Arnold in Coronation Street, has the middle name of a famous Finnish composer?

7. A substance with sialagogue properties stimulates the production of which bodily fluid?

8. Digambaras and Svetambaras are sects in which religion, originating in ancient India?

9. ‘I have always depended on the kindness of strangers.’ is a quote from which classic 1951 film?

10. Which term, derived from the French word for ‘warehouse’,

20)

denotes a trading post where merchandise may be imported and re-exported without the levy of duty?

11. Winning 6 gold medals in four Olympic games, which canoeist is the most successful Swedish competitor, in any discipline, in Olympic history?

12. Dr. Gunther von Hagens patented which anatomical technique for preservation of tissue specimens?

13. Derived from a Portuguese word for ‘farm’, what name was commonly given to the coffee estates that spread within the interior of Brazil during the latter half of the 19th century?

14. Which legendary chess player, noted as much for his eccentricity as his outstanding play, died in Iceland on January 17, 2008?

15. In Greek mythology, which son of Atreus was married to Helen at the time of her abduction by Paris?

16. ‘It was love at first sight. The first time Yossarian saw the chaplain he fell madly in love with him.’ were the opening lines of which famous 20th century novel?

17. In the traditional rhyme, ‘The Twelve days of Christmas’, how many lords are 'a-leaping'?

18. Barbara Hulanicki founded which iconic fashion store in the 1960s?

19. In which Asian country did the colour of the postboxes change, entirely logically, from red to green during 1997?

20. ‘Say hello to my little friend.’ is a quote from which classic 1983 film?

21. Add together the numbers found opposite 13 and 15 on a dartboard. Which prime number do you get?

22. On the first day of which month does World AIDS day annually take place?

ADAPT UNMISSABLE WITH PINOCCHIO THE PANTO

TRAFALGAR

Last Friday,90 members and their guests,of the RNA Torrevieja Branch (RNATB) once again celebrated Trafalgar Night at the Masa International Hotel,Torrevieja.

Trafalgar Day is the celebration of the victory won by the Royal Navy,commanded by Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson,over the combined French and Spanish fleets at the Battle of Trafalgar on 21 October 1805,

Fortunately the relationship between these countries has improved since then!

Guests included the Mayor of Torrevieja, Capt.Stephen McGlory, Defence Attache and Lt Cdr Edward Dunn,VR RNR,Chief of Staff to the Ambassador

Thanks must go to the excellent service provided by the MASA Hotel Events Director Javier Perez Garcia and his staff.

As part of the ritual of the evening those assembled were privileged to have Eduardo Dolón Sanchez toast his majesty King Felipe VI of Spain,Lt Cdr Edward Dunn toast his majesty King Charles III of England and Lt Cdr Edward Dunn followed with his well versed and

entertaining life and career of Nelson,with the toast to the Immortal Memory of Lord Horatio Nelson.

Much dancing and merriment followed the meal, toasts,and traditional raffle and the ex Royal Naval personnel and civilian members of the RNATB

and guest are already looking forward to repeating the event next year.

If you wish to know more about the RNATB,they meet us on the first Wednesday of each month at 1700hrs at CHE LOCO Restaurant,El Chaparral Urbanization,Calle Fray Angélico 11,Torrevieja.

Contact Secretary,Mike Cockman.Email maclegalservices@aol.com

Thebest show of the year is back! ADAPT Theatre Group’s new pantomime PIN OCCHIO is coming to to San Pedro del Pinatar on 17th, 18th and 19th November at 7 p.m. and Sunday 20th November at 12 noon.

The ADAPT theatre group pantomimes, which have been performing to sell-out audiences for over 10 years, have the novelty of being performed in English and Spanish, to the delight of San Pedro’s mixed audience of expats and the local community, and they also raise money for local charities.

A show not to be missed, tickets are now on sale. See poster for details or contact Eric on ericberg2@hotmail.com

When patrons arrive at the theatre and watch our shows, they donít realise the preparation that has been going on behind the scenes by an array of enthusiastic members of the company.

Studio32 have had a team of wardrobe assistants, set builders and painters working hard over the past few months to put this show together.

Around 200 costumes and a 1000 small items, have been prepared to ensure this show is as good as it can be. With that in mind, we need an audience to appreciate all this hard work, so come along and watch our show, you will not be disappointed so book your tickets now using our online booking service outlined below. Pictured are members of the cast during rehearsals at the Theatre.

The show will run at the Cardenal Beluga Theatre, San Fulgencio, between the 10th,11th and 12th of November. We are always looking for people to join our group (especially men) who can, or who have aspirations to sing, dance and act, or who have experience working in the theatre backstage, in lighting, sound etc and in particular who have experience working with costumes.

If you are that person and would like further information on our theatre company and rehearsal times, or you would like to book tickets for our show please visit our websitewww.studiothirtytwo.orgto book tickets online, email tickets@studiothirtytwo.org or call 679 062 272í. Tickets will also be available for sale in the theatre on the night of the performance.

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

La Siesta Evangelical Church, Torrevieja, a friendly, English-speaking church. We hold services at 11.15am on the 2nd and 4th Sundays each month (and the 5th when there is one). For more info see our website at: www. lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org Join us at the SALTCHURCH Sundays at 10.30 am. We are a friendly church, bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship. Meets at Calle Daya Nueva 12, PolÌgono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. We look forward to meeting you. www.Saltchurchspain. Facebook SaltChurchSpain International Christian

Assembly, Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, TorreviejaEvangelical 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 ñ Contact: 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. Phone: 966 799 273 / 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. www.icatorrevieja.org

for price, choice and quality. ENGLISH SPOKEN

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

The Meetings of the Royal British Legion Orihuela Costa and District Branch are held at 7 for 7.30 pm on the 3rd Thursday of every month at the Olympia Pool Bar in Mil Palmeras. Everyone is welcome incl non members. Call Jean on: 630 28 08 99.

The RBLTorrevieja BranchMeets 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. 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 50ís. We need volunteer Drivers and

people to join our Home Visiting Team to visit a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee. If 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 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.

The RAFACosta Blanca RMG replaces the RAFACosta 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 RAFAand the RMG is via the RAFAwebsite rafa.org.uk. Over 50 - On your own in the Torrevieja area. Check out Phoenix Solos who meet every Monday morning from 11am to 1pm at Reflections Bar/Restaurant, C/Aviles, San Luis Lakeside. Call Lynette on 643 098 173 or see website at; phoenixsolos.wix.com

The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2021 Ford Puma ST-Line Hybrid which is on Special Offer priced at just 22,500 euro.

Come along to our large showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. We can assure you of the biggest and best in the area

BEE CAREFUL!

By John McGregor

‘That’s nice,a queue’,I thought,as another person appeared to be standing in line close behind the rather boring ex-RAF chappy I was talking to.It was only twenty minutes into my first-ever book-signing at Waterstones in the lovely old town of Chichester in Sussex.

I was feeling quite smug as I’d already signed and sold two books,and so I shifted my position slightly to get a better view.To my amazement I looked straight into the eyes of a plumpish ‘middle-aged’lady staring intently at me with a strange look on her face - and I thought:

‘Oh my God it’s Jill!’Men can only do one thing at once,can’t they? I quickly ended the previous tedious interview,at the same time my mind racing trying to remember what I had actually written about her in the book. From the look on my ‘old’girlfriend’s face it seemed as though I might have some explaining to do…

Jill was one of a bunch of female telephonists we young airmen had dated in the late Sixties.Every month on a virtually all-male camp the RAF authorities sent a free bus to the local nurses home,teachers training college or similar female establishment like the GPO to attend a monthly dance on our base (discos were just about to start).So for weeks,months (and sometimes forever) we would be romancing such lovelies.The telephonists were,in my words ‘a rum lot’as they used to listen in to phone calls from the rich and famous.

Indeed I tell of one true story in the book about the girls all listening in to the lead singer of the most famous rock band in the world - still Rolling along today!

Jill and I went out for a few months,but in those days our emphasis was on the ‘Bumble Bee’syndrome,i.e flitting from flower to flower,distributing pollen wherever possible – I’m sure you catch my drift.

In the book I described her as ‘petite,dark and attractive’– phew! But I was ‘restless’ and wanted to move on,and had decided to end it.But before I could we were involved in a car accident and ended up in hospital together.

While being attended to I saw Jill’s notes, and was surprised to find out she was twenty-nine,although she had told me she was twenty-four.I was also lying though,as I was twenty and told her I was twenty-four –

funny that.Although I took some flowers and chocolates round to her house the next day,I knew this was it,and I wouldn’t be contacting her again,though I told her I would ring her – and didn’t.In addition,just to spice it up a bit,in the book I described her as a little ‘staid’for me and said that she still lived with her parents.

There is another bit to the story,but you’ll have to buy the book to read that part.

Now all these years later at Waterstones Jill stepped smartly forward.I noticed she was clutching a well-thumbed copy of my book in her hand.I wondered if she was going to throw it at me - or maybe just ask me to sign it?

‘Hello,John,’she started grimly.‘I don’t suppose you remember this ‘old maid’do you? You remember,the ‘staid’one,who still lived with her Mum and Dad?’

‘Of course I do,Jill’I chuckled nervously, giving her a peck on the cheek.‘How could I forget?’

‘And this is my husband,Peter’- I swung round to see a large miserable-looking man, he looked as though he’d been thrown out of the Gestapo for cruelty as he glared down at me through knotted eyebrows.

We shook hands grudgingly and Jill and I began to chat about those great times,what had happened to our old mutual friends from that era and she began to thaw out.

After what seemed like hours,but was prob-

ably only a few minutes,another old (male) familiar face appeared and I gratefully acknowledged him.Jill saw this and summarised;

‘Well,John – we’re going now - and I hope you’re going to sign my book for me?’

‘Of course I am,Jill’,I gushed.

‘And I hope you’re going to write something nice!’Well,I was hardly likely to risk any more trouble,so I wrote:

‘To Jill - how lovely to see you again after all these years! All the very best in life,yours very sincerely,John’– what else could I do?

So Jill and I parted as friends,but the incident really threw me.

It taught me the lesson to ‘Bee careful’– the sting being that if you write about anyone, just be prepared for the fact that you just might run into them again - and like me, have a little explaining to do.

My only worry now is what will happen if I run across the bloke I described as a ‘w****r’ – well,he was.

Oh,and then there’s the one whose petrol tank I weed in because – no,sorry,you’ll just have to buy a copy to read what happened.

I’ve sold well over 2,500 copies now,and have had some great reviews and comments about it.Everyone seems to enjoy it – and it makes a great present!

‘FAIRY TALES OF AN SAC’ 2009 John McGregor - Amazon or Woodfield Publishing.

New book publicises Lady of Elche

Elche born Lola Martínez has written her new book about the Lady of Elche that shows an interesting, sensitive and enigmatic woman. Martínez presented the book at the ACAS (Ángel Castaño Arts Space) exhibition hall on October 22 (pictured with the mayor of Elche).

The new literary adventure coincides with the 125th anniversary of the Iberian bust.

Orihuela Local Police receives a new drone

The Orihuela Air Media Unit (UMAO) has taken delivery of a new drone that has now been incorporated into the fleet.

It joins a further two drones that were already in use by the police unit, although this new machine has additional features that will allow it to locate people in areas of difficult access, detect fires, identify points of illegal dumping of pruning or debris, as well as identify breakdowns that may occur in the electrical distribution network.

Antonio Sánchez, Councillor for Citizen Security, said that it offers the use of a thermal camera with a 200 x zoom.

The device is powered by two batteries, providing a range of 41 minutes. In addition, it detects obstacles by vision and infrared and has a wind resistance system of up to 15 meters per second.

It can fly at 83 kilometres per hour, reaching 7,000 metres in height, as well as operate in a temperature range between minus 20 degrees and plus 50 degrees.

It has millimetre positioning accuracy and is equipped with three propellers, which allows it to be landed in an emergency, should one fail.

RESULTS

MindTheGap10-2FreakieTaverners

HubHyenas10-2Milo´s

FallenAngels8-4CK1Ladybirds

CK1Lads9-3AngelsDelights

PintDepotQueens5-7HubHellraisers

Domino´sDesp2-10C.C.´sFlyers

ElCapitan5-7TipsyToppers

C.C.´sBees8-4Danny´SBar

TipsyTiaras3-9LeesonSt.Trotters

three.Enter Bryan Livsey, to face Sanderson, just a 125 from the Gap man, Livesy managing 3x80+ and a tasty 77 out on the bull, for the 10th.Garcia, 101,95,99 succumbed to Brown D16, Che Liam closing the match on T20,T10,D10.POTM - LiamLivsey.

HUB HYENAS V MILOS

MindTheGap51055

HubHyenas51051

ElCapitan5846

Cc'sFlyers5843

TipsyToadToppers5841

Ck1Lads5840

Milo´S5636

Cc´SBees5628

FallenAngels5531

Ck1Ladybirds5424

Danny'sBar5424

Domino'sDesperados5324

FreakieTaverners5320

HubHellraisers5313

LeesonStreetTrotters5223

AngelDelights5215

PintDepotQueens5016

TipsyToadTiaras5011

Trotters

Highest Check-Outs: TerryDavid-CK1Lads114 T20-14-D20,CheLiam-MindTheGap110T20T10-D10,JohnMckay-CC`sFlyers94T20-18-D8

Mind The Gap v Freakie Taverners

It was a bright start from the Freakies, Mario Garcia nailing the 1st triple, despite Sam Salt's 140 and Paul Moody's ton.Freakies didn't add to their score until the 10th leg, Chef, Bar Owner and pretty decent arrow thrower James Brown hitting 2x140,100, plus a 56 out, Gordon Cowan 99, D5, edging the Gap ahead.

The Chef added 85, 140,134, in the 4th leg, but left the finish to partner Bliss Wright to finish D16. Cowan and Darren Sanderson 140, made it 5-1 at the break.Both sides agreeing it could have been 3-3. Much the same in the singles, Moody, Cowan and Carlos Escansiano, 100,134,D8 winning the opening

Milos didn't add to their score until the final leg, Cain Garcia 95,81,85,D16.Hub's Dario Sierra a 50 out, ensuring the draw, Havelock 100, D16, gaining both points.Notable scores from Milos Alejandro, Javi de Gea, POTM - Wilkinson - Raul.

By Paul Durrant

FALLEN ANGELS V CK1 LADYBIRDS

Long time Spurs fan Billy Dolling 100, opened Angels account, Angela Mullen 85,81,114, levelling for Birds, Donna Ralph, giving the visitors a slender advantage, all 3 legs on D1.

Dolling 100, Joe Cuyt D8,and Graham White D16, gave the hosts a 4-2 half time lead.

Dolling 100, D6 and James McKay 81,83, D5, gained the hosts a valuable point, Ralph D8, postponing the inevitable, which came next leg via White 100, D2, Sharon O'Rourke responding with 122. Kirsty Green D18 adding a 4th for Birds.POTMDolling - Mullen.

CK1 LADS V ANGELS DELIGHTS

Lads made it 4 wins from 5 despite a fine performance from Delights POTM Cathy Burgoyne meriting her sides POTM, with 2 doubles and plenty of T20's. Lads were dominant in the 1st half, the highlight a Terry David 114 out, T20,S14,D20.Les Adams 134,100, D12, Steve Monk-Dalton 100, D1 and Steve Mullen 140,D8, backing up. Dalton made it 6 on D8, Burgoyne D8, stemming the tide.Adams secured the match and POTM for both points.Ginge Lewis D20 and Bill Leaves concluding, Sue Collins gaining Angels 3rd.

PINT DEPOT QUEENS V HUB HELLRAISERS

Two doubles in the 1st half from Queenie Rachel Broadhead were insufficient as Raisers dominated before the break.Sue Spiers, D20, the other Dolling, Lesley D1,D4, and Cheryl McGlynn 133, D4 doubling out for Raisers.

Dolling added a 115 and D2 for POTM in the 1st singles, Lorraine Cox D20 replying for Queens.Carol Rowland gained Raisers 6th leg, Ronnie Bowden finding D3.Spiers D4 the match winner, leaving Broadhead to out on 54 for POTM.

DOMINOS DESPERADOS V CC FLYERS

Despos found it tough going this week against a strong Flyers.New kid on the block Graham Eagles, skipper Steve Harding found their sides winning doubles, Paul Chick deserving POTM. Ace Flyers Suso Madrid, 3 doubles and 3 tons for POTM, Jesus Madrid, 4 tons and 2 outs, Sam Farrow,100,125.John McKay, 2 tons and doubles. Chelsea Campbell D17, gaining the 6th leg, Jesus the 7th and match.

EL CAPITAN V TIPSY TOAD TOPPERS

Caps enjoyed more tons in this encounter plus maxi's from Ed and Arold Klimonis, but Toppers achieved more doubles.Arold's 180 in the opener to no avail as Andy Rutter planted D20.John Rodford 100, found the same double for an early lead.

Caps were soon level through Chris Logan and Vycka Bobinas 2x100.Rodford made it 2-3 on D10, assisted by Lee Maiden's 100,99.Ben Kernahan D2,

making it all square.

Arold K's D2 edged Caps ahead, Toppers responded by taking the next 4 via Rutter, Rodford,Maiden and match winner Graham Solomons.Ed K claimed the 12th with 100,180.A healthy 26 tons and 19 80+ scores from both sides.POTM - Ed K - Rodford.

CC BEES V DANNYS BAR

B's won all 3 triples courtesy of Bruce Admiral, Liam Lumb, and Dave Jennings, a lone Jean Randel 111 in response.

Steve Lumb 81,135,D4, reduced the deficit only for Jennings to find 95,96,2x100, partner Paul Tollafield D20, Bob Smith 81,117 replying.Admiral 100 and Paul Christopher 140, D2, giving B's a 5-1 lead.

Tollafield D14 made it 6 and a point before Steve Lumb had a decent 501 finishing on D16.

Jennings 100,140 got the 7th, Admiral D16, making it 8-2.Consolation came from Smith 85,95,140,D12 and Steve Collins D2.POTM - Jennings - Smith

TIPSY TOAD TIARAS V LEESON ST TROTTERS

The Trotters got their first match points this week, leaving the Tiaras propping up the bottom of the table once more.

POTM Barry Shingler obliged with a 180 and three check-outs in his four games.Captain Yvonne Rouffignac (100) also showed her mettle, likewise featuring in 4 games and equalling Shingler in finishes. The hosts claimed their first point in the pairs, courtesy of Sharon Crane (78, 72) and Simone de Lacy (98, 85, D8).

The Tiaras POTM Sharon Crane (100, 121, D1) eventually secured the first of the singles for the ladies.de Lacy (D3) got their 3rd point in the second singles but there was no more to come despite great efforts from Pat Schofield (84, 94), Lisa Ivill, Wendy Hayward and Elizebeth Cowan (98), all taking it to the wire.

Milos started with a bang, Rory Byrne 125, Raul Rocamora 121.100, Angel D20, in reply Alex Nikolov 100, Alan Havelock 125.Andre Wing D5 and Jay Wilkinson 140, D2, giving Hub the advantage.Mark Ellis 100, 62 out, Wilkinson 140,D2 and Havelock 121,D8, winning all 3 pairs.

POTM Rocamora and Wilkinson

Shingler POTM

POTM Ed K and Rodford

Milo’s

*

SOUTH SOUTH ALIC ALICANTE WINTERANTE WINTER TRIPLES TRIPLES

MOND MONDAAY 24 0CY 24 0CTTOBER - WEEK 3OBER - WEEK 3

ENTERPRISE DIVISIONENTERPRISE DIVISION

Greenlands Maples 112 (8)Country Bowls Flamingos 87 (4)

San Miguel Dolphins 116 (10)La Marina Pathfinders 59 (2)

La Siesta Apollos 69 (4)Emerald Isle Titans 123 (8)

Vistabella Albatrosses 102 (8) Quesada Pearls 84 (4) San Luis Klingons Bye

P P W W D D L L Dif Dif ff Pts Pts

San Miguel Dolphins312039328

Emerald Isle Titans 39063322

Vistabella Albatrosses 26042616

Greenlands Maples * 3708016

La Siesta Apollos 3708-6116

Country Bowls Flamingos 3609-1214

Quesada Pearls 25051812

La Marina Pathfinders 35010-8112

San Luis Klingons * 2307-164

* 2) deducted forfailing to field a full side

DISCOVERY DIVISIONDISCOVERY DIVISION

Greenlands Chestnuts 84 (4)Emerald Isle Neptunes 104 (8)

La Marina Explorers 105 (10)Country Bowls Seahawks 63 (2)

El Rancho Pintos 66 (7)Vistabella Drivers * 49 (5)

La Siesta Pioneers 67 (4)San Miguel Orcas 82 (8) Quesada Diamonds Bye

P P W W D D L L Dif Dif ff Pts Pts

Vistabella Drivers * 39332223

La Marina Explorers 38077222

San Miguel Orcas 38254022

Greenlands Chestnuts 3807418

Emerald Isle Neptunes 3708-2316

Country Bowls Seahawks 3708-5316

La Siesta Pioneers 2505-1810

El Rancho Pintos 2217-337

Quesada Diamonds* 2307-116

deducted forfailing to field a full side

VOYAGER DIVISIONVOYAGER DIVISION

Monte MarMatadors 97 (10)San Miguel Stingrays 87 (2)

Vistabella Eagles * 72 (6)Greenlands Beech 70 (6)

San Luis Trekkers 89 (8)La Siesta Sputniks 74 (4)

Emerald Isle Moonrakers 85 (4) Quesada Rubies 91 (8)

P P W W D D L L Dif Dif

Quesada

San

Greenlands

MarMatadors

Vistabella

San

Emerald

La Siesta

QUESADA BOWLS CLUB

Pearls

had a trip to Vistabella last Monday, and although B Trinder, P Bevan, M Ward 20-15 plus C Brazier, T Morgan, P Morgan 24-20 won, the end result was a 4-8 defeat.

Diamonds had a bye, whilst Rubies won 8-4 at Emerald Isles.

In the Friday Southern League, Swallows had a 10-2 victory at home to EI Cavaliers thanks to T Morgan, C Dye, M Ward. C Brazier, M France, Jason P. M & C Highland, P Morgan 20-16. P Bevan, G Phillips, F Roberts 19-13.

Monte Mar Bowls Club

Sponsored by The

Belfry,

Alacant

Builders and The

SOUTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION C

Monte Mar Matadors v Emerald Isle Outlaws

home to Emerald Isle Outlaws

on two rinks and drew on one

to Gina Hindle, Cindy Bedford skip David Eades 19 ñ 12, Des Freeman, Steve Leatherland skip Ian Hamilton 23 ñ 13, the drawing team Sue Bounds, Chris Harding skip Joan Harding 17 ñ 17.

Shots Matadors 82 ñ 78 Outlaws. Points Matadors 7 ñ 5 Outlaws.

SOUTHERN LEAGUE VOYAGER DIVISION

Monte Mar Matadors v San Miguel Stingrays. Monday 24th October at home to San Miguel Stingrays we had a very good result winning on four rinks. Well done to Lynne Armitage, David Eades skip Joan Harding 21 ñ 18, Julia Hamilton, Les Bounds skip Barry Watson 20 ñ 15, Wendy Sheridan, Iain Sheridan skip Ian Hamilton 28 ñ 23, Mick Soars, Chris Harding skip Keith Young 16 ñ 12.

Shots Matadors 97 ñ 87 Stingrays. Points Matadors 10 ñ 2 Stingrays.

WINTER LEAGUE

Monte Mar v Vistabella.

At home to Vistabella we only won on one rink and lost on shots. Well done to the winning rink Lynne Armitage, Mick Soars, Rod Soars and skip Barry Watson.

Shots Monte Mar 42 ñ 47 Vistabella. Points Monte Mar 2 ñ 6 Vistabella.

For further information about Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club check out our website www.montemarbowls.com or email us at info@montemarbowls.com. We are also on Facebook.

with steve hibberd

Swans were at home to Vistabella Picadors, and earned a useful 66 draw. Here's the point scorers - A Bowen, D Gould, B Elliott 1918. L Armstrong, P Bottle, T Voisey 22-13. H Olsen, P & B Rees 16-14.

Meanwhile, Swifts travelled to La Siesta to take on the Blues. Wins for S Johnston, B & L Miller 16-15. K Gordon, D Collings, A Reid 23-14. I Everett, V Slater, D Riley 19-13, meant that they also shared the points 6-6.

SAN MIGUEL BOWLS CLUB

By Barry Jones

Week ending 28 October

On Monday San Miguel had all three teams in action,San Miguel Dolphins were home to La Marina Pathfinders, where they won 10 - 2,116 shots to 59,the best winning triple were Allen Patterson, Alan Campbell and Derek Farmer 33 - 13.

San Miguel Orcas were away to La Siesta Pioneers where they won 8 - 4,82 shots to 67. They best winning triple were Meg Brownlee,Peter Masters and Frank Scotthern 20 - 8.

San Miguel Stingrays didn’t fare as well as the other two teams losing 2 - 10,87 shots to 97.The winning triple were Adam Ingram,Ken Hope and Barry Jones 19 - 12.

On Wednesday San Miguel were away to Bonalba where they lost 6 - 2,62 shots to 38.

On the winning rink were Margaret Patterson,Steve Parr,Steve Cantley and Fred Willshire 17 - 15.

On Friday San Miguel Comanches were home to Vistabella Conquistadors, where they recorded the first win of the season 7 - 5,87 shots to 82.The best winning triple were Ken Guiney, Gestur Saemundsson and Lynn Greenland 30 - 10.

On Friday morning San Miguel Navajos were away to El Rancho Mustangs winning 10 - 2,114 shots to 71.The best winning triples were Linda Douglas,Tom Dalgleish and Eddie Cowan 22 - 8,and Stan North,Frank Scotthern and Bob Donnelly 29 - 15.

Also on Friday,San Miguel Apaches were playing away to Vistabella Lanzadores winning 8 - 4,99 shots to 92.Best winning triple were Mary Whitelock,Shiela Booth and Ron Nairey 30 - 14.

A reminder that the Wasps sessions take place Wednesdays 1.30pm for 2.00pm - 5 for an afternoon’s bowling with shoes and bowls available to borrow.

Due to the popularity of the Wasps,first time bowlers are asked to attend an initial coaching session on Tuesday afternoons,starting at 1.45pm.

We welcome all bowlers who would like to join San Miguel B.C.as we are a unique club we only pay owner fees and a club fee and NO LEAGUE RINK FEES.

For further information on San Miguel B.C please contact club secretary Barry Jones on 602 504 905 or club president Alan Campbell on 606 676 118

Emerald Isle Bowls Club

With Elwyn Morris

Titans started the week playing La Siesta Apollos and had a good win 8- 4 Aggregate of 123- 69 D Jones S Marks R Marks 36- 6, S Verity Jo Pering Julian Pering 26-12, N Prior G Wallis P Heaney 2410

Neptunes played Greenlands Chestnuts and had great win by 8-4 Aggregate of 104-84; J Fenty B Fenty P Willicott 23-12, C Thomas C Wilson M Willicott 25-17, G Dyer A Malcolm J Loughran 18-8

Moonrakers took on Quesada Rubies and slipped

to a 4-8 Aggregate of 85-91; M Brookes A Gower E Brookes 20-17, J Nash J Ball A Forrest 13-12 Wednesday saw the Isle play El Rancho in the Winter League where they had a fine 8-0 success, Aggregate of 84-29; S Verity B Eldred Jo Pering

Julian Pering 35-9, N Prior M Veale M Dyer A M Gerrard 28-5, N Davis G Dyer S Marks R Marks 21-15

Cavaliers travelled to Quesada Swallows and slipped to a 2-10 Aggregate of 78-192 defeat; S Verity Jo Pering Julian Pering 21-19

Remember SAPS is still on at 13-13 pm

Vistabella Bowls CLUB

by Brian Zelin

Monday 24th October, Vistabella Albatrosses Division

A were at Home to Quesada Pearls, Winning on 3 Rinks plus the Shots, Martin Foulcer, Mo Foulcer, Eric Bishop 25-14, Geraldine Fisher, Arthur Brown, Gordon Fisher 18-10, Barbara Brown, Paul Parks, Maggie Furness 24-15, Shots 102-84. Points 8-4.

Vistabella Drivers Division B, were Away to El Rancho Pintos, Winning on 2 Rinks and Drawing on 1 Rink, John Goddard, Derek Stevenson, Derek Howe 13-13, Frank Barclay, Brian Gilham, Alice Howe 18-16, Alan Whitley, Tony French, Alan Bannister 18-17, Shots 4966. points 5-7.

Vistabella Eagles Division C, were at Home to Greenland's Beech, Winning on 2 Rinks, Jill Wyatt, John Ridley, Paul Durham 24-11, Rosemarie Savage, Ken Savage, Avril Kendell 22-11, Shots 72-70 Points 6-6.

Wednesday 26th October, Vistabella in the Winter League were Away to Monte Mar, Winning on 2 Rinks plus the Shots, Freddie Willey, Alan Bannister, Paul Parkes, Gary Thorpe 15-13, Steve Baxter, Derek Howe, Carol Thorpe, Maggie Furness 19-14, Shots 47-42 Points 6-2.

Friday 28th October, Vistabella Lanzadores Division A, were at Home to San Miguel Apaches, Winning on 2 Rinks, Geraldine Fisher, Arthur Brown, Gordon Fisher 27-16, Martin Foulcer, Carol Thorpe, Gary Thorpe 287, Shots 92-99 Points 4-8.

VISTABELLA Conquistadors Division C, were Away to San Miguel Commanches, Winning on 2 Rinks and Drawing on 1 Rink, Peter Westwood, Roy Widgery, Sheila Westwood 14-14, Julia Clarke, Mark Matthewman Keith Black 21-12, Rosemarie Savage, Ken Savage, Avril Kendall 21-13, Shots 82-87 Pts 5-7.

VISTABELLA Picadors were Away to Quesada Swans, Winning on 2 Rinks plus the Shots, Barry Tarling, Steve Wilson, Derek Howe 20-11, Ron Smith, Alan Whitley, Alan Bannister 31-3, Shots 96-71. Points 6-6

La Siesta Bowls Club

MEMBERS RUN CLUB - Alan Carr

Division (B) The Blues away game was at Vistabella to play the Picadors,the game ended with the blues winning on three rinks and also securing two points for the overall (Shots 82-72) with a result of 8-4.

The rinks won by; Joy & Brian Gardiner with Jean Cooper (21-7).Dawn & John Taylor with Harold Charleton (16-12). Ramsay Sinclair,Karen Kirk & Derek Biggs (19-16).

For the Golds home game,it was the Emerald Isle Claymores who won on one rink and came close on two more but the Golds managed to keep their heads in front to win the game 10-2 (Shots 84-74).

The winning teams were; Pat Moore, Bill & Sue Jordan (20-9).Gordon Paton,Derek Barber & Brian Fraser (17-11).Ann & Robert Heath with Alan Mawer (16-15).Stan Dibble, Pauline & Lyndon Johnson (17-16).

Division (C) No game for The Silvers this week.

Enterprise - For the Apollos afternoon game they welcomed Emerald Isle Titans who kept the pressure on throughout the game but this did not stop the Apollos from winning on two rinks with the game ending 4-8 (Shots 69-123).

SAN LUIS BOWLS CLUB

It’sbeen a fairly quiet week this week, which was probably useful as the weather is still warm & sticky & therefore we still have biting insects to attack & annoy us! The club championships have started with the first round of the Mixed Triples competition. Our league teams seem to be settling down and have achieved some good results, hopefully this will continue. South Alicante League, Monday 24th October, Voyager Div. At home to our very close neighbours, La Siesta Sputniks, the Trekkers had a good result; 8 points-4, 89 shots-74. Winning teams: Stuart Wilson, John Dowell, Bob Bromley 17-14, Dave Notely, John Bagnall, Dave Webb 20-10, Tricia Reilly, Derrick Cooper, Pat Reilly 23-18. Enterprise Div. - The Klingons had a BYE this week.

Friday 28th Southern League and the Lions had a chance to roar

El Rancho Bowls Club

this week, with a good result, away v La Marina Sharks; 8 points4, 83 shots-71. Winners: June Jones, Pat Reilly, Keith Jones 19-9, Margaret Morrison, Caroline Smyth, Neil Morrison 18-11, Helen Hammond, Sandra Burrows, Scott Malden 25-7.

The Tigers were at home v Monte Mar Matadors and it was good to see some old & new faces. Although there were some close fought, nip & tuck matches, unfortunately we only managed to hold on to 4 points-8, 79 shots-90. Well done to our winning teams: Jane Hamill, John Dowell, Stewart Hamill 18-13, Kevin McKenna, Stuart Wilson, Bob Bromley 25-15.

If you’re interested in finding out more about San Luis BC or bowling in general, come along to Oasis SL, talk to members; we’re a friendly bunch! watch on Monday or Friday match days, or take part in the chicken drive on Saturdays (9:30/10:00) or contact Club Captain June Jones for more information: keithjones81@hotmail.com / 691 903 773.

LA MARINA BOWLS CLUB

With Dave Hadaway

On Monday the Pintos played Vistabella Drivers at home, unfortunately they were one rink short, always a disappointment for our players as we all want to play our match. Also due to illness another Drivers rink had to concede, again disappointing. So with the Pintos one rink by one shot and another by two and drawing another, all close matches. Pintos took 7 points to Drivers 5. Barbara Jones, Geoff Jones and Henry Ryder 16-18. Sheila Cox, Dolly Ford and Marion Haynes 17-18. Tony Abbott, Brian Harris and David Haynes 13-13. Sue Ziepe, Steve Ziepe and Rob Clark 10-0. Conceded due to illness. Lesley Day, Ann Abbott and Mike Cox 10-0. Conceded.

Wednesday found the winter league team playing at Emerald Isle against a strong team and came away having lost on all rinks but played well.

On Friday the Mustangs played host to San Miguel Navajos, who played well to take 4 rinks from the home team, but the Mustangs didn’t shame themselves against a tough team. Dave Haynes, Marion Haynes and John Ziepe 12-25. Barbara Jones, David Baker and Geoff Jones 8-22. Sheila Cox, Brian Harris and Mike Cox 21-15. Frances Johnston, De3bbie Ham and Diane Yates 15-23. Bill Johnston, Ron Greenstreet and Henry Ryder 15-29.

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

Rinks won by; Noel Morrisroe,Wendy & Alan Ralph (20-17).Jim Jarvie, Norman Adcroft & Dave Blackie (2120).

Discovery - The Pioneers played host to San Miguel Orcas and managed to collect the points on two of the rinks,the winning teams being; John Skipper,Bill & Sue Jordan (19-9).Anthony Pridmore,Ken Stringfellow & Ken Barber (15-14).The game ended 4-8 (Shots 67-82).

Voyager - The Sputniks were greeted by San Luis Trekkers,with some of the rinks going very close.

The last end on two of the games brought the winning shots for the sputniks by; Wayne Howlett,June & David Whitworth (17-15).Lesley Howlett, Maxine Wright & Brian Elkington (1514),result being 4-8 (Shots 74-89).

Interested in joining La Siesta members run bowls club,there is always something going on with events being arranged by the social secretary to suit all members.

George´s Chicken and Egg,every Wednesday 1.30 for 2pm,with Mike & Grahams roll up every Saturday at 0930 for 0950 am.

Just pop in or call the President George 865 772 498 or the Captain Wendy 633 068 399 who will be pleased to give you any further information you may require.

For all of you that are waiting for the Seagulls report from last week, you can relax, there is not one as it appears we do not report on byes – sorry about that.

The Seagulls sister team the Pathfinders however travel to the San Miguel Dolphins, on Monday 24th and our thanks must go to Jean & Paul Tregoing skipped by Garth Slater to avoiding a team whitewash by winning 16-13. Giving us 2 points to their 10 and a losing shot margin of 59-116, meanwhile at home our Explorers were matched against Country Bowls Seahawks, where we fared much better winning 10-2 with a shot difference of 106-63 our top winning trip being all the ladies of Janet Parsons, Kath Manning and Margaret Finlayson with a magnificent 33-9 win.

No confirmed Friday results I am afraid but I can give you some league tables. The Sharks are currently 9 points behind the leaders in 5th position, and the Seagulls are currently 12 points behind the leaders also in 5th position.

The Magpies lead our birds league by 3 points closely followed by the Sparrows with a total of 11 points.

Christmas Dinner is now booked for Saturday 10th December, a date for your diaries.

Sirocco failed to make it so was a DNS (Did Not Start) for her.

The Race Officer had set an Olympic course across the southerly wind and the dinghies battled it out for five to six laps with The Omega finally triumphing with an average lap time of 516 seconds, only 18 seconds ahead of the second placed boat. An especially great result for new member Fiona McMahon in her first SAMM race.

It was another disappointing day for the competitors of the SAMM racing fleet as the weather again decided not to cooperate only providing very light winds. But at least they were a little stronger than last week so the lighter dinghies could race but the two heavier day sailers really struggled.

To try to help the first race start was delayed for an hour and all the dinghies got away well, Ginetta did manage to start but 25 minutes late because of a problem with the foresail but

The two bigger boats did not even try to start the second race so it was again a close fought contest between the dinghies again in a southerly wind but, a shift in wind direction to south east made having to decide the correct course to sail crucial. This time the Laser Radial of John Down was declared the winner with an average lap time of 557 seconds.

For information about the sailing opportunities within SAMM go to www.sailingmarmenor.com

Photo shows from L to R Steve Hall and Fiona McMahon winners of the first race, John Down winner of the second.

a struggle without wind for

25 OCTFOUNDERS FORMATWEEK 4

Friendly Temps5 - 4Primadonnas Gap GirlzP- PDolly Mixtures

CK1 Ladybirds5 - 4Friendly Chicas Tipsy Tigers6 - 3Whacky Allsorts

LEAGUE TABLEPPts

CK1 Ladybirds425 Tipsy Tigers423 Gap Girlz321 Friendly Temps420 Friendly Chicas413 Whacky Allsorts413 Macklin¥s Dolly Mixtures310 Primadonnas410

Carp-R-Us

Fishing

Sometimes,as fishermen,we have off days,sometimes the venue can have an off day. This Thursday at Argos,it was one of those days.Carp-R-Us were fishing round eight of the Murcia Series there and, in what looked like perfect conditions,everyone was expecting a good days fishing. That was not the case and almost half of the eleven anglers who fished struggled to get one or two fish.

Clear winner was Alan Smith who,despite the presence for almost half the match of some intrusive neighbours,managed 12.84kg caught on the method feeder with 8mm pellets from peg 11.Next door on peg 10, Jeremy Fardoe was second with 9.36kg caught using a hybrid feeder and 8mm robin red pellets.

Third,but who should have been second if he hadn’t dropped a fish back in at the weigh-in,was Graham Patterson with 9.20kg caught on cage feeder and slow sinking feeder (although even then,the fish were taken on the bottom).Fourth,fishing an unfancied peg on the cold side,so an excellent performance,was Steve Higgins with 7.50kg.

Further information about the club can be found on its website www.carp-r-us.weebly.com or on the Facebook page Carp-R-Us Fishing Costa Blanca.

CK1 Ladybirds enjoy a visit to the top of the leader board this week as outright favourites, Gap Girlz, had their match postponed.

The Linea Directa TDLO ladies have had an impressive tally of three 180¥s in their first 4 weeks slightly outshining the Serenity Insurance Thursday darts league haul of just two, Go Girls!

HOTDARTS WEEK 4: Diane Dane (PD) 180, 116,180, 116, Shirley Stephenson (WA) 133, Helen Bushell (FC) 125, 120, 100 x3, Sharon Crane (TT) 124, 116, Ann Wharton (FT) 119, Lesley Eagles (TT) 114, Julie Hallett (FC) 114, Karen Christopher (FC) 113, 105, Simone de Lacy (TT) 100 x 2, Sharon Frain (PD) 100, Alison Webster (FC) 100

HIGHESTCHECK-OUT: Ellie Attwood (FT) 86

Playa Flamenca Walking Football

The C.D.M sports club in the Orihuela Costa have recently had the football Astro turf playing surface replaced and all football had to be cancelled,but good news it is now officially playable

The Playa Flamenca Walking Football Club will be able to resume playing on Mondays from October 31st at 4.pm

If you would like to play Walking football for the over 50's, gain some exercise join the wags and players in a fantastic social club contact the secretary vickyhillspain@gmail.com or turn up watch or play on Monday's K.O,4 ish and meet like-minded people.

Los Balcones Deep Sea Fishing Society

A new fishing club is being launched in Los Balcones, Torrevieja by Samuel Ovadia,with membership open to interested parties.

"I am hopeful there will be enough interest within Los Balcones and surrounding areas to form a fishing society

'Deep Sea Los Balcones Sea Fishing Society' ",Sam told The Leader.

"Members can share information and share the cost of a small fishing boat.

"I am looking for members to join with new friends to go sea fishing together,with 25 people interested presently.

"It is planned to hold an inaugural Deep Sea Fishing Society meeting in January 2023,with the intention to have a committee of five members,who will decide everything together," said Sam.

"There will be a chairman and treasurer within the committee and the plan is to build up the society to something special.

"It is not just about the fishing,but for members to make new friends to create a bond of friendship,and have social events" said Sam.

A WhatsApp group has been set up with interested people to get in touch.

THE INTERNATIONAL GOLF LEAGUE

The final day of The International League was held at Vistabella Golf Club,last Saturday.

With all 18 teams registered to play,we had two shot-gun starts to bring the season to a close.The morning started bright and early at 08.00 with two division titles up for grabs on the last day.Congratulations to all the teams and the results of the leagues are as follows.

Division 1 San Miguel GS,champions. Runners-up The Phoenix.Division 2 Las Naranjas champions and The Ex-Pats runners up.Division 3 Champions The Ba Bas

and Cream of The Celts Runners-up. The course was in fantastic condition and thanks are due to Joaquin and his team. The restaurant provided a lovely lunch for all the players and we would like to thank Alfredo Martinez,president of the rules committee and the Valencian Golf Federation for their continued support.

If you are interested in forming a team of 8 players for the 2023 season why not contact johnobrienalicante@gmail.com?

Registration is now open and will close in four weeks time.

Primadonnas Joyce Wilkinson, Mitch Halliday, Diane Dane, Carol Hurley, Sharon Frain, Groa Bryndis

Friendly Temps Ann Wharton, Bev Howard, Ellie Attwood, Sue Wade, Natalie Clifford, Cpt. Kim York Fickling, Nicola Moseley

Primadonna Sharon Frain on the ochey

Primadonna Diane Dane’s 180

Andrew Atkinson EXCLUSIVE

GEOGRAPHY:

Murcia is located in the south eastern corner of Spain covering 11,000 sq km has 45 municipalities with one million inhabitants located between the Valencian region to the north and Andalucian region to the west on the Mediterranean sea and has a saltwater lagoon called the Mar Menor with excellent beaches.

CLIMATE:

The climate is dry and hot in Summer and mild in winter with temperatures varying from 11 degrees in winter to 40 degrees in summer with an average of 18 degrees and Murcia has 320 days per year of sunshine, the most in Spain.

LANGUAGE:

The standard language is Castellon Spanish as taught in UK schools but English is spoken widely in the region.

GETTING THERE:

The region is serviced well with two international airports based at Corvera near to Murcia city and Alicante which is a one hour drive.

GETTING AROUND :

The region of Murcia has an excellent network of motorways and main roads linking all the major town and cities and relatively cheap car hire and the highspeed rail links have improved dramatically in recent years and there is a superb bus service to almost everywhere in Spain and taxi’s are readily available.

STANDARD OF LIVING:

The cost of living in Murcia is now comparable to that of the UK in many respects but eating out and fresh food are still exceptionally good value in Murcia.

GOLF COURSES:

The region of Murcia is blessed with a selection of 16 superb courses suitable for all standards of golfer designed by many of the world’s best golf course designers such as Jack Nicklaus, Dean Putman, Dave Thomas , Seve Ballesteros and Manuel Pinero to name a few and offer a variety of golfing experiences such as the typical resort style with lakes, large bunkers and undulating greens to those based on more of a desert style with rocks and waste areas.

The oldest courses in the region are the North, South and West courses on the La Manga Resort under the shadow of the superb 5* Hotel Principe Felipe and host to numerous celebrity and professional golf tournaments for many years.

The well documented Jack Nicklaus trail of golf courses including El Valle, Hacienda Riquelme, La Torre and Saurines de La Torre are located close to the RM-19 Autovia de la Mar Menor motorway and offer a mixture of resort and desert style golf.

Situated close to the Mar Menor beaches are the superb courses of Roda, which is one of the best manicured courses in Murcia and located close to the Hotel 525 which offers play and stay packages and La Serena which boasts 16 holes with water and just inland the resort style course at Mar Menor located next to the 5* Hotel Caleia.

Further to the south of the region are the courses of Lorca, Hacienda del Alamo and Alhama which is the Jack Nicklaus signature course and located on the outskirts of Murcia city is the beautiful Altorreal golf course which offers in many ways an English style golf experience.

HOTELS AND ACCOMMODATION:

Murcia is not only a tourist destination but a

residential area for many other nationalities that have made this region their home so there are an abundance of apartments and villa’s available for rent in addition to the excellent 4* & 5* hotels such as the Hotel Felipe Principe, Hotel Caleia, Hotel Double Tree Hilton, Hotel 525 and Hotel Puerto Juan Montiel located close to the golf courses in the area and offering golf packages on a stay and play basis.

On a similar theme the Residences at Mar Menor and the Roda Golf Apartments offer apartment style accommodation for those with a slightly smaller budget or those that prefer a more relaxed style holiday and again offer stay and play packages.

THINGS TO DO FOR NON-GOLFERS OR ON REST DAYS:

For the non-golfers in your group or for your rest days away from the golf course in Murcia and Cartagena the region has cities of great historical significance but also well served by commercial shopping centres such as Thader, Nueva Condomina, Dos Mares and Espacio Mediterraneo and the beaches on the Mediterranean Sea and Mar Menor are second to none while inland are national parks and mountains where you can find wild boar.