The Leader Newspaper 20 February 2022 – Edition 959

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Keeping people safe and informed for over 19 years - The Costa Blancaís oldest ëFREEíEnglish language newspaper

Around a hundred firefighters from six fire brigades across the Valencian Community gathered in Orihuela on Friday during the plenary session of the Consell, to protest against the creation of the new Valencian Emergency Unit (UVE).

They had been gathering since early morning in front of the Marqués de Rafal Palace, wearing helmets and vests, while carrying red smoke flares, banners, drums, and loud whistles, against the backdrop of the shrill sound of fire tender sirens. The Valencian President Ximo Puig was protected by an umbrella as he attempted to enter the Palace under a hail of eggs, thrown at him by the protesters, although the vice president of the Consell, Aitana Mas, did stop to listen to their demands, as she too arrived outside the historic mansion in Oriole.

Many other ministers, however, chose not to run the gauntlet of protesters, as they decided on discretion, by entering the building through a back door.

The firefighters claim that the new body will be a waste of public money and will actually hinder coordination during emergencies.

Josep Palacios, a sergeant with the Alicante Fire Consortium, said that the UVE "clashes with the functions of the consortium of firefighters. The decree does not have any technical criteria and a ‘duplicity’ will be created between the two bodies that will see an increase in discord”.

“Neither” he added, “has the structure of the new organisation been agreed upon by any of the consortiums nor any of the councils that are also directly involved.”

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FROM PAGE ONE

Sergeant Javier García Miñano, also from Alicante, said "Instead of working to unify the six existing Fire Brigades, they want to create a seventh corps, that will cause, apart from the enormous waste, a total lack of coordination in dealing with emergencies."

Despite the noisy protests and the fact that all of the fire unions in the Valencian Community remain firmly opposed to the creation of the Valencian Emergency Unit, the formation of the new body was approved by ministers inside the building.

In a statement the Generalitat said that the creation of the UVE has the objective of guaranteeing rapid intervention across all parts of the Valencian

Community; it will remain permanently active, and collaborate with the rest of the emergency services to ensure protection within the framework of the National and European Civil Protection System.

Among its functions will be the extinction of forest fires, the intervention in emergencies of a meteorological origin, in seismic emergencies and tidal waves, and cooperation in situations of social emergency under the direction of the competent bodies.

Last summer saw an increase in the number of forest fires across the community. There were multiple wildfires that resulted in the devastation of many thousands of hectares.

The Valencian Government considers

Torrevieja to host the European Police and Fire Games

The city expects more than 3,000 registered security and emergency forces from 30 countries from September 29 to October 7. The organisers expect that it will be worth six million euros to the local economy.

Torrevieja will host the ninth edition of the European Police and Fire Games, which will be held in the city from September 29 to October 7, 2023.

The tournament, a sporting event in an Olympic format, first held in 2006, will take place over 9 days, and include about 40 sports modalities with the participation of some 3,000 athletes representing law enforcement, security and emergency services from more than 30 European countries.

The announcement of the games was made on Friday by the mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolón, the

Councillor for Sports, Diana Box, and of Security and Emergencies, Federico Alarcón, the president of the Games, José Carlos Baquero, and his vice president, Ricardo Tilve.

Dolón said he was delighted to host the event which would have an enormous economic impact “not only for sports tourism, but it will also be reflected in local shops and hotels and in the city's own brand image.”

José Carlos Baquero said that the economic benefit to the town, with the arrival of these 3,000 participants, in addition to family and companions, could amount to more than 6 million euros. He said that, because of the climate and the tourism opportunities, he fully expects the Games to have their greatest participation ever. Among the disciplines that will be held are track athletics, cross country, night running, half

that climate change will see such fires becoming even more prevalent in the coming years and as such, the rapid

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marathon, swimming, open water, rescue and first aid, indoor rowing, canoeing, sport fishing, 7-a-side football, futsal, beach volleyball, tennis, paddle tennis, table tennis, badminton, golf, wrestling, judo, jujitsu, karate, taekwondo, kickboxing, boxing, precision shooting, dynamic shooting, skeet shooting, archery, road cycling, mountain biking, triathlon, duathlon, trail running, orienteering, weightlifting, crossfit, horse riding, K9 and firefighter specialties.

These games are usually held every two years having had their origin in the world games, also dedicated

PO E T R Y C O R N E R

"Hearts

A baby's cry and hearts beat fast

The child could be alive

Amidst the earthquake's rubble

Could the little one survive?

A frantic clawing of the ground

To clear the bricks and glass

Time of the utmost urgency

As minutes quickly pass

A stop to listen carefully

But nothing do they hear

They fear the worst

Then hear a burst

Of crying fairly near

Their hands are frantic once again

Their knuckles torn and grazed

Beat Fast"

by David Whitney C2023

The weather cold and biting

Eyes search watery and glazed

The crying of a distressed child

A little face appears

A baby just a few weeks old

It's mother now in tears

Tears of joy as hands remove

A baby from the ground

A cheer of heartfelt victory

From people all around

The mother holds her baby close

Thanking God he's still alive

She may have lost the home she loved But her baby did survive

To see your poem published on this page send to: office@theleader.info

to the security forces, that were held in Barcelona in 2003. So far, all the competitions have been hosted by Spanish cities, including Pontevedra, Valencia, Huelva and Tenerife with the exception of the Brussels tournament in 2014. The last occasion that the games were held, however, was pre pandemic in Algeciras in 2018. The one important aspect yet to be announced is the financial implication to Torrevieja with, currently, no information available about the exclusive contracting file between the municipality and the organisers of the games on the State Contracting Portal.

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support provided by the Valencian Emergency Unit, will ensure a better response to those affected areas.

Ximo Puig presiding over Friday's Plenary Session in Orihuela

Spain has a serious water shortage, this includes Orihuela Costa and surrounding areas.

Public encouraged to save water in light of National Shortage

Are you aware there is a water shortage in Spain, has anyone bothered to tell you to be careful, and to save water! NO! Why not?

Spain has a serious water shortage, this includes Orihuela Costa and surrounding areas. The water levels in the Torremendo reservoir are at their lowest level ever, 34% approximately, only a third of it’s capacity, the main source that provides water to Orihuela Costa and to all towns and villages within the province of Alicante and south to Cartagena, more than one million people.

Yet, there seems little publicity encouraging people to be more careful with water, a sacred commodity, liquid gold. We must save water, save Orihuela Costa, save our planet!

PIOC wonder why not? Maybe it is because the Orihuela government is based 35km distant, and that their “seaside resort” is the cash cow they believe they can continue to milk, but if there is no water, there will be no life, no tourists, no taxes to pay their wages, it is as simple as that!.

The resolution to this situation could be so simple if new sewage water plants were built to treat the water, but again the Orihuela Government have dragged their heels for years, knowing only too well the serious consequences that a lack of water will bring to Orihuela city and the coastal areas. When repairs are carried out, they are usually of a temporary

nature, so the sewage system is ok short term but it often continues to overflow causing foul smells etc. Moreover the riverbeds have either been blocked to build more houses or they are not maintained, thus preventing the rainwater from flowing naturally to the beaches as nature intended.

The Orihuela government gave approval to build 2228 more properties on Cala Mosca, the last parcel of natural land on the coast, which runs directly alongside the N332, causing long tail backs and resulting in the most polluted stretch of road in Spain.

The Ministry of Transport do not approve of the development on Cala Mosca for this reason, yet, the Orihuela government refuses to accept the decision, which was approved at central government level in Madrid. Why, greed of course!.

Last year the water company stated in the media that if all this development goes ahead the capacity of water will only supply 50% of the population of Orihuela Costa but the Orihuela government are failing to tell the truth.

They need to act quickly, stop the Developers building more houses, repair sewage pipes properly and build a new sewage plant to provide the much needed water for the 85,000 residents of Orihuela, (in addition to the 200,000 additional tourists that visit every year), but sadly, as we know only too well, they will not. It is all about political power and greed, and of course, hanging on to their jobs.

PIOC will address all of these problems, but we need your support to do so. Together we can, one step at a time.

PIOC Press Release

Bishop of Orihuela-Alicante asks voters to withdraw support for Partido Popular

José Ignacio Munilla, the bishop of OrihuelaAlicante, has asked voters to withdraw support for both the Popular Party (PP) and its current leader, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, due to the party’s reaction to the Constitutional Court ruling that endorses the abortion law and that revokes the appeal filed 13 years ago by the PP itself.

The PP appealed against the legislation in June 2010, stating that a woman could abort if she had been raped, if her life was in danger or due to malformations of the fetus.

But last week, the leader of the Partido Popular withdrew the appeal because the "feeling and sensitivity of the Spanish people" has changed.

For the prelate, the decision taken Feb. 9 by the

Constitutional Court is summed up simply: “There are human beings who do not have human rights. It’s the obvious conclusion.”

On his Radio Maria programme ‘Sixth Continent’, Bishop Munilla, speaks of the "total and utter betrayal" of the PP "to the cause of life." He questions how someone with a "right conscience" can vote for the Popular Party that has embraced this law on the right to abortion.

The court’s decision was surrounded by controversy because at least four out of the 11 justices should have excluded themselves because of previous positions they held in government.

If these judges had done so, the court would have lacked the quorum to address the appeal.

Orihuela Villages Benefitting from ATM Installations

The regional government has introduced an 8-million-euro plan for the installation of 141 ATMs in towns in the Valencian Community that do not have a banking service, thus removing some 73,000 people from so-called “financial exclusion”, without this essential service.

Amongst the areas to benefit is Orihuela, where some of the smaller towns now have cash machines thanks to the agreement reached with CaixaBank. They have installed them in El Mundamiento, La Matanza, El Escorratel, and Barbarossa.

By province, the initiative has benefitted more than 13,000 people in Castellón with the installation of 54 ATMs; more than 48,000 in the province of Valencia with the start-up of 65 ATMs, as well as nearly 12,000 people in Alicante, with 22 ATMs.

Murcia’s Plaza de Toros packed for Vox Rally

Almost 15,000 supporters, the vast majority from Murcia, joined with thousands of devotees from Madrid, Alicante, Almería, Valencia, Barcelona and esleswhere, in the Plaza de Toros de Murcia on Sunday at a Vox rally of candidates for the May elections.

Among the speakers was the national leader, Santiago Abascal, the general secretary of Asaja, Alfonso Gálvez, and the businessmen Luis del Rivero and Tomás Fuertes.

Torrevieja History Brought to Life in the Classroom

Students of the seven third-year ESO classrooms in Torrevieja have been learning about the history of the town, thanks to a presentation by a team from the IES Mediterráneo y la Asociación Cultural Ars Creatio.

The students now have to create a short story each, the best of which will be rewarded with salt boats, traditional of the Torrevieja salt craft.

Quesada Thieves strike in Aldi Car Park

An incident in Quesada Aldi car park last week saw a shopper have his backpack stolen from his vehicle.

He had placed his shopping on the passenger seat and was returning his trolley to the trolley park when thieves quickly removed his backpack and ran off. Fortunately nothing of value was in the bag, only items purchased in the store.

The incident was reported to Aldi management.

Guardamar arrests following internet romance scam

Alicante Civil Guard has arrested a 39-yearold man and his girlfriend,in Guardamar,for defrauding a woman from Teulada of 57,000 euros through an ‘internet romance scam’. The man faked a virtual romantic relationship for 14 months,posing as a national police officer.

The arrests were made following a complaint by the Teulada victim who claimed to have been scammed by the man she met through the dating application Tinder.

Rio Segura to be dredged in Orihuela City

The Councillor for the Environment in Orihuela, Guillermo Cánovas, has confirmed that the Rio Segura will be cleaned up in Orihuela City. Waste has been building up in the containment barrier near to the Ociopia shopping centre, but the process of removing the waste requires coordination with the water company, Aguas de Orihuela, and the CHS water federation, so that water levels can be reduced to allow the cleaning operation.

Infanta Sofia follows sister to 'Welsh Hogwarts'

Noting that her studies would include, "both science and arts', the statement added that Sofia would be able to take part in creative activities such as theatre, music and art, as well as sports.

It also mentioned that she could take on community service duties, such as supporting local schools or working with children with intellectual disabilities.

The cost of the two-year period of schooling, paid for by King Felipe, would be Ä74,000, the statement said.

The two sisters will not be at the school at the same time as Princess Leonor, who started

there in 2021, will complete her exams and leave at the end of this summer.

Leonor is more "thoughtful" than Sofia, according to El Pais newspaper, which said that the younger sister was the more sporty.

"Physically the younger one has inherited her father's height and when the two sisters are together it can be clearly seen that Sofia is the taller," it reported. "What they don't agree on is their tastes in football. Leonor is a fan of Atletico and Sofia supports Real Madrid. Spanish press reports suggest that Sofia is "mad for football".

The British boarding school nicknamed the ìHogwarts for hippiesî is to welcome the younger daughter of Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain as a pupil later this year.

Infanta Sofia, 15, will follow her sister, Princess Leonor, 17, the heir to the Spanish throne, who has spent the last two years at UWC Atlantic College in the Vale of Glamorgan. She will take the international baccalaureate (IB), an alternative to A-levels, that is offered by several dozen British public

schools, after two years further study.

The school, which is housed in a 12th-century castle overlooking St Donat's Bay on the south coast of Wales, has long had a reputation for educating foreign royalty: King WillemAlexander of the Netherlands and Princess Raiyah of Jordan attended it.

The Spanish royal household announced that the infanta had passed the necessary entrance tests and that she would start at the school at the "ends of August or beginning of September'.

Infanta Sofia, 15, right, will follow her sister, Princess Leonor, 17, left, to Wales

HOGWARTS BOUND

All Our Forgotten Misdeeds

It was with considerable relief that I learned it is no longer an offence to be 'an incorrigible rogue' under the Vagrancy Act of 1824, it has been repealed. Roguish smiles may once again be permitted if required. You still won't get away as easily with some misdemeanours which remain on the statute books, as for example knocking on someone's door without a lawful excuse, double-glazing salesmen please note. It is also illegal to order one of your servants to stand on a window sill to clean one of your windows, whether double-glazed or not. Lots of things that might land you in hot water with a judge in bygone days are no longer of much interest to any but the most dedicated ambulancechasing lawyers. In Thailand it is illegal to step on paper money, whereas in Scotland it is almost always essential to do so, before it flies away in the wind.

In Britain it was once unlawful to handle a salmon "in suspicious circumstances," whereas nowadays most people probably just pay the poacher and consult a Jamie Oliver cookbook.

It could be that our modern attitude to former antisocial behaviour has had to adapt its value system to take into account considerations such as

time wasted on things that now appear trivial. As legal costs mount and judges' attention spans grow shorter or more befuddled, it is little wonder that society has greatly diminished interest in pursuing cases that involve forgetting your wife's birthday, which was once a crime in Samoa.

(Someone peeking over my shoulder as I scribble is nodding appreciatively.)

Compared to the mild eccentricity of any whale caught in the UK becoming the property of the monarch, or the fact

that it is illegal to die in the Houses of Parliament, other countries' misdeeds seem somewhat bizarre. You mustn't drive in Missouri with an uncaged bear in the car. Nope, I'll never do that.

In Victoria in Australia it is illegal to change a lightbulb unless you are a licensed electrician. I'll leave you to make up your own jokes.

In Colorado it is against the law to collect rainwater, and in parts of Greece it is still an offence to flag down a taxi if you have the plague.

Surprised that you can still wave your arm, frankly. Just as surprising is that in Kentucky it is illegal to carry ice cream cones in your pocket, and probably also uncomfortable on a hot sunny day.

To my great delight, I have learned that nightclubs in Argentina must play the same amount of tango music as all other music combined. Ay caramba! I would dance with joy on hearing that, except I'm pretty sure playing castanets is forbidden after 10 p.m. on weekdays.

Reshuffle creates UKDepartment for DeBT

Last week’s UK Government mini reshuffle was good news for stationers, with lots of rebrandings.

We now have a Department for Business and Trade (DeBT?), a department for Energy Security and Net Zero, or DESNZ, which an American might pronounce as “Decency”, and one for Science, Innovation and Technology, or SIT, which will surely encourage graffiti. But it is not as bad as

the reshuffle in 2005 when Alan Johnson was put in charge of Productivity, Energy and Industrial Strategy until he realised that encouraging to call his department PEnIS would be a cock-up.

PENSIONER INJURED

A65year-old man has been injured after falling from the first floor of a building in Elche whilst cleaning the windows.

The incident occurred on Monday afternoon in a building on calle Benito PÈrez GaldÛs in Elche. Both a paramedic and basic life support ambulances attended the scene, treating the man for multiple injuries, before transporting him to the General University Hospital of Elche.

Spain mulls whether single parents should get double parental leave

The Supreme court is examining whether its discriminatory that single parents are not entitled to the same amount of fully-paid parental leave as parents in couples.

Currently, mothers and fathers in Spain get 16 weeks of fully-paid leave each. However, for singleparent families, the court is considering extending this to 26 or 32 weeks to prevent discrimination.

MINISTER FOR DeBT

Kemi Badenoch

Torrevieja Installs Intelligent Road Signs

The Councillor for Local Police, Mobility and Traffic in Torrevieja, Federico Alarcón, has announced that intelligent road signs have been installed in various parts of the town, all in a bid to improve road safety.

They are interactive, illuminated road signs that are activated through sensors, which send a signal when they detect the passage of a vehicle, either numerically or with icons, thus the driver receives information and warnings. In addition to improving road safety, these intelligent road signs are more sustainable and economical, since they work using solar panels.

Pedagogical radars are especially indicated to influence the behaviour of drivers, so they moderate their speed, by making them aware that they are exceeding the speed limits in areas that are especially sensitive to inappropriate speed such as urban environments, proximity of pedestrians, schools, etc.

Specifically, you will find the intelligent road signs on Avenida de Desiderio Rodríguez with

José Hódar (playa Los Náufragos), Desiderio Rodríguez at the height of the La Veleta urbanisation, Gregorio Marañón with the entrance to the port, and they are also being installed at the exits of the ambulance units (Avenida Rosa Mazón) and the Fire Station.

Tickets now on sale for Musical Production of Hello Dolly

Pictured are members of Studio32 Musical Theatre Company hard at work learning dance routines for their upcoming extravaganza, ëHello Dollyí expertly supervised by their Lead Choreographer Lindsey Walker.

Jerry Hermanís energetic ëHello Dollyí, is a musical filled with charisma and with heart. Matchmaker Dolly Levi is a widow, a matchmaker, and also a professional meddler, but everything changes when she decides that the next match she needs to make is to find someone for herself.

Set in New York City at the turn of the century, Hello Dolly is boisterous and charming from start to finish. Filled with great music and amazing dance routines it is not to be missed.

To book tickets online for our show please visit our website www.studiothirtytwo.org , email: tickets@studiothirtytwo.org or call 679 062 272

For those of you unsure of how to use our system you can call into The Post Box in Dona Pepa, Cards and More La Marina and Quesada Tech, where someone will be on

hand to assist you with booking tickets.

We are also looking for men out there of any age to join our group in the ensemble for our forthcoming production of ëHello Dollyí. We are also on the lookout for a young male person aged between 18 and 30 for a principal role that is still to be cast.

If you have experience in Musical Theatre in the areas of singing, acting and dancing we would like to hear from you. Even if you donít have experience in those areas but have the urge to tread the boards, come along to one of our rehearsals and see what we do.

If you think you have what it takes, but have little or no experience in Musical

Theatre, then come along and see us at Casa Contenta restaurant, Rojales on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 7:00pm and 9:30pm. Guidance and coaching will be given for those less experienced.

Also anyone else, male or female of any age are welcome to come along to our rehearsals if you are interested in taking part in the show ensemble, working backstage or have experience working with the production of stage props, lighting and sound. You will be made most welcome.

If you require any further information, contact Linda on 679 062 272 or visit our facebook page at Studio32 Musical Theatre Company.

Trying to put the right thing...

The Lads were discussing YCBS in the pub the other night. ‘A splendid concept’, claimed the guy who is good at English. ‘A great idea for a column – it can be about anything’, added another. ‘If only they had someone else to write it’, said a third and this was the unanimous conclusion to that topic.

So, taking on board the fellow’s findings, we decided not only to have someone else write the column this week – but in fact we have engaged a large team of writers to do the job.

These are extracts from genuine letters of complaint sent into local authorities and councils in the UK. It will be difficult for you to credit some of the letters, but you do need to bear in mind that these are all real people with genuine grievances and not a word has been altered.

We’ll commence with a couple of mild ones – just to get you into the frame of things … ‘The toilet is blocked and we cannot bath the children until it is cleared! ‘Will you please send a man to look at my water, it is a funny colour and not fit to drink!’ ‘Our lavatory seat is broken in half and now in three pieces!’ ‘Our kitchen floor is damp. We have two children and would like a third, so please send someone round to do something about it!’ ‘This is to let you know that our lavatory seat is broken and

NEWS IN BRIEF

we can’t get BBC2!’ ‘My lavatory seat is cracked, where do I stand?’

‘It’s the dog’s mess that I find hard to swallow!’ ‘I am writing on behalf of my sink, which is coming away from the wall!’ ‘50% of the walls are damp, 50% have crumbling plaster, and 50% are just plain filthy!’

And now, dear respectable readers of this newspaper; this is where we move on to the X-rated stuff – and as they warn on some late-night TV films, ‘discretion is advised!’ Any of you with a delicate constitution are advised to move onto the safer ground of Damien Maher’s ‘Extra Mile.’

‘Their 18 year old son is continually banging his balls against my fence!’

‘I wish to report that tiles are missing from the outside toilet roof. I think it was bad wind the other day that blew them off!’ ‘I request permission to remove my drawers in the kitchen!’ ‘Will you please send someone to mend the garden path. My wife tripped and fell on it yesterday and now she is pregnant!’

The Lads are loving this and if you yourself haven’t yet had enough of it, from here on we are moving into the realm of XXX-Rated material. If you don’t understand the significance of this, or it is too much for you, just skip along to ‘Ask you Pharmacist’, where Eamon Brady has a cure for everything.

‘I am a single woman living in a downstairs flat and would you

please do something about the noise made by the man on top of me every night!’ ‘I have had the clerk of works down on the floor six times but I still have no satisfaction!’ ‘I want to complain about the farmer across the road. Every morning at 6am his cock wakes me up and it’s now getting too much for me!’ ‘Please send a man with the right tool to finish the job and satisfy my wife!’ ‘The man next door has a large erection in the back garden which is unsightly and dangerous!’

There are a couple more that we won’t chance here. You could only read them after requesting delivery in a plain white envelope!

So there you have it, Gorls – and if you don’t like this one, talk to the Lads. If any of you are smugly thinking that this style of letter complaint only happens in England –well think again! I have seen a few copies of letters received by some of our TDs over the years – and there aren’t enough Xs to cover the content of some of them!

We wrote a YCBS many years ago on chucklesome excuses that defendants gave for the law-breaking that caused them to stand before the judge’s bench. I had spent a day attending a hearing of the Law Society in Dublin and at lunch break, I amused myself by copying some of these gems from the restaurant wall.

Would you like to hear the one

about …. No? Ah OK so … see you next week!

DON’T FORGET

Thank God every morning when you get up that you have something to do that day which must be done

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. Bernie has published four books; ëIf

Minimum wage has risen by 47% in the last 5 years

The Spanish minimum wage has increased by 8% from last year, which is close to the average inflation of 8.3% in 2022.

Over the past 5 years, the minimum wage has increased from 735.7 euros to 1,080 euros in 2023, during the leadership of Pedro Sanchez.

The Labour portfolio is held by Yolanda Diaz, who is also the second Vice President of the Government.

Almond harvest being harmed by climate change

Spain experienced its third-driest year since 1964, and its hottest summer on record.

The Mediterranean is predicted to be one of the fastest warming regions.

The early flowering of almond trees, which provide a livelihood for hundreds of families, due to climate change is leaving them vulnerable to late frosts that can damage or destroy the crop.

AMAZON: ALEXA WILL NOT SPEAK IN CATALAN YET

Amazon has confirmed that its voice assistant, Alexa, will not speak Catalan at the moment.

Andres Pazos, Spain's Alexa business responsible, stated that there is no news about Catalan being included in Echo speakers or any other devices that use Alexa's technology.

Pazos added that Amazon's goal is to support users in all possible languages.

whether you like it or not. Being forced to work and forced to do your best will breed in you temperance and self-control; diligence and strength of will; cheerfulness and content; and a hundred other virtues the idle never know.

(Charles

Kingsley

1819 – 1875)

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.

CPI rose to 5.9% in January due to the higher prices of food, fuel

In January, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) fell by two tenths compared to the previous month, but its interannual rate increased by two tenths to 5.9%. The rise is due to higher prices for fuel, telephone services, clothing, and footwear.

The final year-on-year inflation for January is one-tenth higher than the rate advanced at the end of the previous month.

TORREVIEJA NGO DISTRIBUTED ALMOST 50,000 MEALS IN 2022

The NGO and social kitchen Alimentos Solidarios Torrevieja closed the year 2022 with an increase both in the number of users and in the number of meals distributed throughout the year, going from delivering 23,934 meals in 2021 to 49,341 in 2022. According to the NGO, the numbers have skyrocketed since the start of the Ukrainian war. In fact, in February last year 3,237 menus were distributed and in March 4,623 due to the arrival of Ukrainian refugees in the city. In total, up to 198 Ukrainian families with 619 people are now included. The months with the greatest demand were September, October and November, with close to 6,000 menus each.

The group has been pleading for more support, as giving out 300 meals every day to their 671 weekly users is far beyond what they expected.

They acknowledge that times are tough for many people, but even a 10 euro donation can help feed a family of four, with salad, main course, and dessert, and they appreciate any donations, however big or small. If you would like more information, or to donate, you can visit their website, https://alimentossolidarios.com/ Alimentos Solidarios appreciate the work of the volunteers, in addition to the donations from individuals and institutions, establishments and local groups.

TIPS FOR REMOVING UNPLEASANT ODOURS AT NO COST

REMOVE BAD SMELLS FROM SHOES, FRIDGES WITH NEWSPAPER

If you don't have any baking soda in the house, you can still get rid of those bad smells with a bit of crumpled up newspaper.

OLD NEWS IS GOOD NEWS!

Crumpled up newsprint is an effective odour-eater, and once it has done the job you can still toss it in the recycling bin, or use it to clean your windows: Newspaper + vinegar spritz = streak free shine.

It can actually deodorize pretty much any enclosed space, too, not just drawers. If your fridge is starting to smell funky, for example,

you can crumple up some newspapers, spritz them with water, and throw them in your fridge to clear it up. It even works well for desmelling shoes.

Torrevieja to Protect Iconic Seafront Building

Torrevieja town hall is taking steps to protect an icon seafront building in the town, the "El Tintero" kiosk restaurant at playa El Cura, by classifying the building an Asset of Local Relevance.

The first stage, which has been approved already, is the tender for a contract worth 10,890 euro to draft and prepare the report to have the building included in the catalogue of historic buildings.

"El Tintero" is a unique and original building by the sea, which has more than 80 years of history and is part of the urban landscape of Torrevieja.

LOS DOLSES - ORIHUELA COSTA

Ref: 001562 e425,000

DETACHED VILLA WITH PRIVATE POOL

Totally refurbished 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, villa with large southfacing terrace.

Airconditioning and heating, all new windows, completely insulated. Underbuild with 2 additional rooms. Garage and access to seperate garden area, part of which is used for bed and breakfast.

Acommon fox or red fox photographed in the natural park of the lagoons of La Mata and Torrevieja.

Photo:Iván Macan.

Arts & Culture & ACOC Asociación Costa Orihuela Cultural

Although only recently formed, did you know that there is now a thriving Cultural Association on the Orihuela Costa that regularly organises events and activities for residents, ranging from theatre to cinema, literature, music, painting, photography, educational and much more.

With almost 200 Facebook followers, and with Spring and Summer on the horizon, it is now actively recruiting as it endeavours to strengthen the Association and, although nonpolitical, apply pressure to the Orihuela Government to provide more activities for those of us who live on the coast.

Local Spanish actor and film director, Antony Cifo, star of innumerable productions in theatre, cinema and television, is the President of ACOC, and despite his busy schedule, The Leader was able to catch up with him recently to find out more about the Association.

QUESTION: What is ACOC?

ANSWER: I have to say, first of all, that ACOC is the first cultural association in the history of Orihuela Costa. It was formed on the 3rd of June 2022 by a group of residents of the coast because of the absolute lack of cultural activities. We now have over 80 active members.

With ACOC we intend to generate our own cultural activities for the enjoyment of the residents of Orihuela Costa, such as theatre, cinema, literature, music, painting, photography, circus and all those cultural events that are of interest to those of us who live in the area.

Q: Are you a legally constituted association and what activities have you developed to date?

A: As of 11/11/2022 we are registered with the Ministry of the Interior as a Cultural Association, non-profit, with full rights to operate legally.

From the day it was constituted, and while awaiting legalisation, we have developed several cultural activities such as MUSICALFRIDAYS OF THE NAUTICALNAÚTICO, which we held in the Club Náutico de Campoamor. There were twelve events in total, including concerts, dance, music, theatre, poetry recitals, etc. These events, which were held every Friday evening during July and August, were attended by more than 500 people with 35 artists performing.

The first event took place on Friday 1st July, attended by the Mayoress of Orihuela Doña Carolina Gracia.

In November 2022 we announced the First International Short Story Competition, Ramón de Campoamor, in Spanish, for which 110 short stories were entered from all over Latin America and from almost all the Spanish provinces. The award ceremony, for the first three winners, will be held in Orihuela on Saturday 4 March.

Q: What projects are you preparing for the coast in the immediate future?

A: Throughout 2023, we will be arranging many cultural activities, both educational and of course a variety of shows. In order to meet the educational demands of young people, we will offer courses in theatre, cinema, music, painting and circus. The star project will be the First International Festival of the Arts of Orihuela Costa.

The revitalisation of the cultural life of Orihuela Costa is the most important task that we want to achieve and develop, given the lack of both cultural infrastructure and a quality programme in keeping with the needs of the of the population that resides on the Orihuela Costa. We understand that featuring culture on

a regular basis is an important part of the personal and fundamental development of people in order to have a satisfactory quality of life.

Q: Who is your cultural activity aimed at?

A: According to demographic studies, our coastline is inhabited by people from many different countries, mainly Europeans, with a predominance of pensioners and retirees.

Many of them are homeowners who come here on a seasonal basis while there are many others who reside permanently.

We also see a large number of residents of different ages who have chosen the coast on which to settle, where we can highlight numerous families with children of different ages. With this information we think that we must offer a complete programme that reaches all of the general public.

We also have to take into account the influx of tourists who visit us every year, especially at Easter and during the holiday periods. There are some 25,000 regular residents on the coast, residents who have to travel to the neighbouring municipalities if they wish to enjoy culture.

It is precisely to these people that our Association is directed, and that is our main objective.

Q : What is the next project you are working on?

A: Actually there are three, a photography competition, a painting competition and one that we think could be very interesting to English speakers.

From the theatrical section of ACOC we are preparing the staging of the Agatha Christie play "The Mousetrap" with Englishspeaking actors and actresses, with the aim of integrating English-speaking residents into our association.

Q : What do people who want to become members of ACOC have to do ?

A: Becoming a member of ACOC is completely free of charge, and you can apply for membership by email : info@acoc.es or by whatsapp on +34 622 252 156. Alternatively, just turn up at any one of our events.

Q : Is it possible to participate in ACOC activities if you are not a member?

A: Yes, of course, anyone can take part, but becoming a member allows you to be kept up to date with of all the activities Find us also on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/acocasociacioncostaorihuelacultural

President of ACOC, actor and director, Antony Cifo

TORREVIEJA HEALTH- The Wait is Over

Getting a Padrón now automated in Torrevieja

The Councillor for Innovation and Modernisation of the Torrevieja Council, Ricardo Recuero, along with the Councillor for Census and Statistics, Inmaculada Montesinos, has announced the automation of the Municipal Register, starting this week, which means that the issuing of Padrón certificates can be done online, and with little delay.

Ricardo Recuero spoke of the importance of this new municipal service to expedite the procedures for applying for, and obtaining, the different Padrón certificates through the Electronic Headquarters of the Council, via the website, torrevieja.es, in addition to considerably reducing the pressure on the personnel in the Department of Census and Statistics. Now, the public can request and obtain, in just a few minutes, the individual certificates and the collec-

tive certificates of the padrón directly through a digital device, while the historical certificate will available in March.

The means to request it are by electronic ID, digital certificate, pin code or permanent code.

Once all the processing documents have been filled out, you will receive a communication from the town hall in your email to be able to download it and have access to the notification.

Recuero said that since last Monday 237 certificates have already been issued electronically with this new municipal digital register service. The councillor added that the town hall has also started a campaign so that people who do not have the digital certificate can get by appointment from the PROP (next to the City Council) from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

S L U M P I N P A S S E N G

When the Murcia regional airport at San Javier was replaced by the new, purpose-built, international airport at Corvera, many passengers were very disappointed, some vowing never to use it, a situation which seems to be reflected in actual passenger figures.

In 2018, the last year of full operations at San Javier, 1,273,774 passengers passed through the airport. In 2022, adjusting figures for the Covid pandemic, Corvera handled 838,940 passengers, a loss of 34%.

In 2019, the last year before the pandemic, and the first year in which Corvera replaced San Javier, 1,090,712 passengers flew from Murcia, a decline of 14%, whilst Alicante-Elche Airport increased by 7.6%. And the figures are not improving.

In January of this year, when normality has almost completely returned, and

Alicante-Elche Airport had their best January in history, with 795,148 passengers, Corvera served just 22,171 passengers. In January 2018, the last January San Javier was active 45,200 passengers used the Murcia terminal, thus representing a drop of 51% when we compare Corvera this year.

Murcia was always the poor relation to Alicante, with the El Altet terminal historically handling around ten times more passengers, but with the most

Despite never acknowledging there was a problem, even when faced with strong criticism from patients forced to wait hours for treatment, and associations complaining about the poor quality of service since the department management was reverted to public control, it would now appear that the department has been taking steps to solve the problem that didn’t exist.

According to a press release, the Torrevieja Health Department has made a significant organisational and personnel recruitment effort to reinforce the primary care teams since recovery for the department's public system. The new additions make it possible to offer better care to the Department's patients and their families.

In primary care, the Department has incorporated 122 new profes-

sionals: 46 physicians specialising in family and community medicine, 3 paediatricians, 57 professionals dependent on nursing management, and 16 new orderlies.

"These data reflect the significant effort to recruit staff at a time when the pressure on care and the lack of professionals at a national level is not easy," explained the manager of the department, José Cano. The press release continues to explain how this recruitment drive is considerably reducing the average waiting time, placing it at historical lows for the department. The average wait to be treated in primary care health centres in the department of Torrevieja is 4.85 days. Some centres have a much lower average wait: 1.93 days in Rojales, 1.96 days in Lo Marabú, 1.76 days in Benijófar, 1 day in Mil Palmeras, 1.42 in San Fulgencio, 3.34 days

in Guardamar, 2.99 days in San Luis (Torrevieja), 3 days in La Mata or 3.80 days in La Loma (Torrevieja), among others.

That information is in direct contrast to the details the details provided by the "Sanidad Excelente" group, saying that patients are still waiting up to 20 days for an appointment at the La Loma health centre in Torrevieja, with a date for the next appointment being given as 8 March, which the management denies. However, a quick check on the GVASalut app on 15 February for an appointment at the La Mata clinic did give an appointment on 17 February.

The manager, José Cano, has valued the "important contractual effort that is being made, the flexibility of our professionals and their high involvement in meeting the health demands of the population."

recent data, that figure has now increased to 15 times more.

However, we should be under no illusions. Passenger air traffic will never return to San Javier, so from our point of view we can either accept that the Murcia Regional Airport is a viable option for our travel choices, and subsequently much quieter than Alicante, or we join in the growth of the Costa Blanca’s favourite terminal, AlicanteElche Miguel Hernandez Airport.

Councillors Recuerdo and Montesinos announcing details of the new service

CORVERA AIRPORTViable passenger terminal or political vanity project?

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 958

QUICK

ACROSS: ACROSS: 1 Crossgrained; 7 Sweep; 8 Twice; 9 Ire; 10 Stringent; 11 Entomb; 12 Violin; 15 Ancillary; 17 Ash; 18 Learn; 19 Dodge; 21 Interminable.

DOWN: 1 Considerably; 2 See; 3 Report; 4 Intensity; 5 Exile; 6 Meeting-house; 7 Sweat; 10 Semblance; 13 Leave; 14 Random; 16 Chain; 20 Din.

CR CR YPTIC YPTIC

ACROSS ACROSS

1.Clear (6)

4.Interfere (6)

9.Surrounding (13)

10.Hang (7)

11.Eagle's nest (5)

12.Merriment (5)

14.Slacken (5)

18.Tremor (5)

19.Mix (7)

21.Characteristic (13)

22.Occupant (6)

23.Tacky (6)

CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE?

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

Solution on Page 23

1.Bosom (6)

2.Inquiry (13)

3.Crowd (5)

5.Mean (7)

6.Fatherly (13)

7.Alleviation (6)

8.Insinuating (5)

13.Treachery (7)

15.Jet (6)

16.Small cake (5)

17.Discern (6)

20.Earn (5)

ACROSS: ACROSS: 1 Watermanship; 7 Power; 8 Leave; 9 Hit; 10 Pointless; 11 Report; 12 Timber; 15 Libertine; 17 Ass; 18 Showy; 19 Solid; 21 Reallocation.

DOWN: DOWN: 1 Weatherglass; 2 Row; 3 Afraid; 4 Solitaire; 5 Irate; 6 Dessertspoon; 7 Put up; 10 Portrayal; 13 Board; 14 Fiasco; 16 Booze; 20 Lea.

ACROSS ACROSS

1.Fruit for mother and child (6)

4.With which one can count a hundred in a coach (6)

9.Venture to head for the water (4,3,6)

10.Men seen around the Spanish shrines (7)

11.She could be No. 1 Daughter of Tantalus (5)

12.See 3 Down.

14.Guys will secure these accommodation units (5)

18.It's a problem for one ready to appear in the picture (5)

19.The sweet content of various courses (7)

21.Charge that's been blown-up (8,5)

22.Threaten to go out to a place of social degradation (6)

23.Loud tales inaccurately describing a celebration (6)

DOWN DOWN

1.Become aloof from the cad, maybe (6)

2.What inefficient builders constructing an army canteen do! (4,1,4,2,2)

3, and 12Ac. The position of the substitute magistrate is (2,3,5)

5.See 15 Down.

6.Does his act consist of doing the twist? (13)

7.In the holidays we'd entered the country (6)

8.Some of the lovers expound it (5)

13.Show anxiety about horse slaughter (7)

15 and 5Dn. Financial position in early part of the year that carries some weight! (6-7)

16.Almost put a value on noodles (5)

17.Not all of the price realised for grain (6)

20.Wood put back in someone's pocket (5)

LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ (Answers on page 23)

1. Which treat is known in France as 'Barbe a papa' (papas beard)?

2. Which 18th century American polymath (from the Greek meaning 'having learned much') coined the phrase 'time is money'?

3. What is the largest land mammal in Europe?

4. The 1946 film It's a Wonderful Life used a mixture of Foamite (a fire fighting chemical) and soap and water to simulate snow flakes falling. Before that, what kind of white painted flakes were used to simulate snow falling in Hollywood films?

5. Where did Aristotle claim the human mind was located?

6. Who was born "Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta" on March the 28th 1986?

7. Doug and Dinsdale were two brothers in a Monty Python sketch who used violence, sarcasm and a thermo nuclear device to rule the London underworld. What was their voracious last name?

8. What is the name of the unit used to measure the strength of a pollution source (or scent emission)?

9. In which country was Josef Stalin born?

10. "The Halloween Tree" is a

1972 fantasy novel by which American author?

11. Plus or minus 10 ft., what is the existing world record distance in cherry pit spitting?

12. Mark Zuckerberg was the youngest billionare in the world. Which popular book is responsible for his wealth?

13. Plus or minus 100,000, what are the odds of getting a Royal Flush in poker? (with 5 cards)

14. Although George Orwell did it in his book Animal Farm, it's illegal in France. What is illegal?

15. The following words are from which songs with 'Wait' or 'Waiting' in the title? a. Everybody listen all over the world, I got a story bout my favorite girl. b. But if your heart breaks, don't wait, turn me away. c. 26 dollars in my hand. d. I was a lonely soul, I had nobody till I met you. e. Hopes dashed to the floor like shattered teenage dreams

16. What is the strongest muscle in the human body?

17. With 2,496 bridges, which city in Europe has the most bridges?

18. Sometimes even the best medicine doesn't help. Kuru is an incurable neurological disorder also known as which sickness?

19. The playing surface in which team sport is called a 'sheet'?

20. Which famous halloween party game originated from a custom to establish who would get married first?

Reunion shattered after cancer death in Argentina

By Andrew Atkinson

EXCLUSIVE

Aplanned reunion in Spain spanning over 40 years between Dona Pepa based musician Esteban Fernandez and his former band colleague and best friend Quique Guinart was shattered, when Quique sadly died of cancer in Argentina.

"I last saw Quique in 1979 when we finished a contract in Kuwait," Madrid born Esteban told The Leader.

"Everyone in the band went their own way after our time in Kuwait. I went to live in Manchester and Quique returned home to Argentina," said Esteban.

Despite the band breaking up they kept in contact during the last four decades, via telephone, that led to making arrangements for Quique and his wife to fly to Spain this year.

However, Quique was diagnosed with cancer and died in 2022: "To hear the news that my best friend had passed away was hard to believe. I still cannot believe it," said Esteban.

"The news came from his son

Lucas. It was, and still is devastating for myself, and of course all of Quique's family.

"He was a fantastic musician - and a lovely, lovely man," said Esteban. Amongst the heartbreaking news, tears of sadness and joy came, when Lucas and his wife Mariana visited Spain, staying with Esteban, in what was an emotional time.

Buenos Aires based Lucas, holding back tears, said: "To meet Esteban for the first time was very emotional."

Lucas, 40, who has followed in his father's footsteps as a musician, said: "We had only spoke on the 'phone. It was very sad to tell Esteban that my father had died. "Meeting him for the first time reminds me of my father."

Esteban added: "Also, it has been like talking to Quique, talking to Lucas."

In what was a week's holiday in Spain, as part of a month's vacation, that took in Madrid, Lucas said: "Esteban has been so good in talking to me and my wife about my father, reminiscing about their time together, playing music.

"The trip to Spain was supposed to be for my father, so to take his

place has been a very emotional time.

"It has been like being with my father again, in meeting Esteban."

Lucas and Mariana visited Madrid,

Granada, Seville, Cartagena, Alicante, Torrevieja and Quesada, while in Spain.

Lucas added: "My father was the best man at Esteban and Norma's wedding. We had the opportunity

to watch a video of their wedding, which was unexpected - something to treasure forever."

NEXT WEEK: PT 2 OF THE LEADER'S EXCLUSIVE TEARFUL & HEARTWARMING INTERVIEW.

Esteban, Mariana and Lucas in Alicante.

Lucas at Quesada Fish & Chips!

Esteban (left), Quique (right)

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

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Los Montesinos - La Herrada

2 double bed/fitted wardrobes, bath/shower. South facing ground floor bungalow apartment, DialPrix Supermarket 2 mins away. Private tiled garden, double glazed Patio, Seperate kitchen, Galleria.

Close to all amenities - 35 min Alicante Airport, Priced to sell at E79,995

Tel: +34 634 383 099.Tel: +44 776 230 3798. Tel: +44 770 234 0744.

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. OrihuelaCosta.secretary @rbl. community

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

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. www.icatorrevieja.org

The Car of the Month at AUTOMOVILES CRESPO is a 2016 Ford Grand C-Max Trend+ Diesel which is priced at just 17,500 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. See page7. We can assure you of the biggest and best in the area for price, choice and quality.

ENGLISH SPOKEN

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

Phoenix Friends Torrevieja

This new friendship club, replacing Phoenix Solos, meets on Monday mornings, at 11.00am, for drinks and conversation, on the terrace at Reflections Bar /Rte, C/Aviles, San Luis Lakeside. Regular activities will include games nights, ten-pin bowling, petanca, and meeting up, but on an informal basis. The group is open to singles and couples. For further information, Phone Kitty 622 180 500 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

Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch now meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 5pm at CHE LOCO bar/restaurant, El Chaparral urbanisation, Torrevieja. For more info contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on +44 7576 117 222, Secretary Mike Cockman 670 224 822 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.

Nothing evokes that tropical feeling quite like the

DIVERSITY AND WASTE.

There is an agreeable saying referring to, ëlove making the world go roundí, that is so true in many ways, providing one is not talking about the love of bombs or bullets, and bullies come to that.

Family love, on the other hand, is the driving force of all events and the upbringing of children and the affection and the terror they can impart in their growing days, is part of lifeís kaleidoscope.

We are blessed with two beautiful ladies who are progressive in their day to day lives, they are totally different in their ways, especially when they were children.

Our first, was, and is proud and adventurous, when she was about three years old, she loved playing on her threewheeled tricycle in the rear yard.

We lived, and worked in, our Victorian terrace shop with a large eight room flat above. As we did not go out to work, we could look after our two girls during the day.

Occasionally we would find evidence of wood worms, the pest would leave little piles of sawdust where they had been operating. To counteract them we bought ëRentokilí. It came in a tin with a screw on spout which one squirted in the hole the worm had made, hey presto they were dead.

Our first darling daughter was curious about this novel shaped tin, but it was out of her reach on a window ledge where I had been attacking the invaders. She did not see this as a problem, using her trike she climbed up on the saddle, stretching out until she managed to reach the tin and then likening it to a baby's bottle she drank from it. How she didnít fall off the trike in her efforts I will never know.

We rushed her to hospital where she was immediately seen by a doctor. They did not understand the type or the makeup of the substance she had drunk, so in panic mode I rushed back home to get the container. When they read the list of its content, they were not too concerned, however she was kept in overnight and thankfully with no aftereffects following her adventure.

We are talking about a time when ëWine timeídid not exist; it was only something that up market restaurants served. Making wine at home was popular, and of course also beer.

I used to make rice wine, a gallon at a time, and I still remember the recipe ñ 8 pints warm water ñ 6 lbs of long grain rice ñ 4 lbs sugar ñ 2 oranges cut and peeled ñ 2 lbs of raisins plus yeast. Stir and keep warm for about two to three weeks with a result of a pleasant strong crystal clear dry white wine.

On one occasion the wine in the plastic container had come to the end of the process and was drinkable, when I noticed the cover had been moved and there was a cup close by. Our youngest was about two at the time and toddling around, being just as adventurous as her sister, and getting up to all sorts of mischief.

It turned out she had been helping herself to the wine and we found her with a grimy unwashed face, tucked up in bed and was sound asleep at three in the afternoon.

We telephoned our GPand told him what she had been up to, he said providing she had not been sick she would sleep it off, which she did.

Of course, if that was to happen today Social Services, Health and Safety, would get

involved and we would all finish up being on a register for child neglect.

Believe me I do not take this subject other than with serious thought, both our girls were brought up with love and care, but then again mishaps do happen!

There is much more to this story, we were able to phone a doctor and speak to him. Likewise with the hospital, it was an emergency, and it was dealt with as such, no waiting, just a quick discussion advising what had happened, and instant care.

Now that has all sadly changed with people, some in agony, waiting to be treated and others delayed for an important operation, so they can get on with their lives. Ignoring, for a moment, the immigration problem of people flooding into the country, putting a strain on these services, in some ways the medical profession and the pharmaceutical companies have brought this situation on themselves.

For years they have been warning that the simplest of scratches could develop into some monkey disease from an out of space virus, or a bump on the head might create all sorts of problems from blindness to gout. I talk a little nonsense but hopefully the reader has the point.

To clarify, all the news reports about how illnesses can develop, coupled with the advertisements for the cure of different ailments, creates a fear whereby people are frightened of the simplest of ailments creating a call on medical care Ö. ëOuch ëI have stubbed my toe quick phone the doctoríÖ attitude.

In my opinion it is more than that ñ much more. The collapse of morale among the nursing staff, dictated to by an over blown administration, to follow unnatural woke wording and diversity, changing normal, accepted and caring attitude to a strange way of thinking, and the abnormal way of addressing patients. It has led to the collapse of the NHS and to what would never have been considered before, ëstrike action.í

Just recently there was a report where the NHS was looking for a diversity officer on £100,000 a year. What do they want one for, doctors and nurses know all about the body and how it functions?

This top-heavy conglomerate needs slimming down, jobs that have nothing to do with nursing should go and the NHS should get back to dealing with the needs of the people.

Take care.

www.facebook.com/percy chattey

Frangipani that will fill your garden with a wonderful sweet scent - from summer through to autumn!

Frangipanis are relatively small trees growing to about 5-6m in height, often becoming wide as they are tall.

Ideal for growing in your garden or container they grow best in a hot dry climate.

Most familiar in their white and yellow form, they also come in lots of tropical and sunset colours. Their blooms look sensational on the tree and as a cut flower.

Frangipanis are tough that can survive neglect, heat and drought, along with insect and pests attack!

Over-watering is a common mistake. When in doubt, don't water. A thirsty Frangipani will quickly recover; a plant afflicted with rotting roots, due to over-watering, can be difficult to salvage.

During the growing season, a once-weekly watering is sufficient, allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the growing season, an application of liquid fish fertiliser and seaweed solution is beneficial. Do not fertilise during dormancy.

Frangipani bark is grey/green and scaly in appearance, with waxy petals. Flowers appear in clusters at the end of branches; the centre is generally a different colour.

Be aware that a cut made on any part of the tree will exude a milky, sticky sap that is poisonous, to both humans and animals.

Easily propagated by taking a cutting a minimum of 10cm long; leave the cutting aside for at least five weeks, ideally in an upright position in a dry location.

Plant the cutting into a pot of well draining soil and stake it, so it will not move or fall, to help until roots develop. Water once every few weeks, if the soil is dry, otherwise leave alone until new leaves appear.

Once roots develop carefully transplant to their final position, but not too deep, as roots may rot.

RADIO CONTROLLED MODEL YACHT CLUB MAR MENOR

We are a radio-controlled model yacht club and we sail from a beautiful location at the water sport and fitness centre at Lo Pagan on the Mar Menor. We sail on Wednesdays from 11am to 1pm with an hour or so either end to set up and pack away. We are multicultural and currently have members from the U.K. Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Spain. The boats we currently sail are from the class IOM. International one meter. As the name implies, they are a world class boat and the models we sail are the same ones being sailed by the top skippers in the world.

The 2022 worlds’ just finished in Croatia, the Spanish champion whom we sometimes sail with, came sixth. There were entries from many far-flung countries including Ukraine, that’s not to imply that we are at that skill level yet’!

One of the most successful designs to date is the Britpop designed by a top skipper in the U.K. and built in the U.K. and Spain and a good used one can easily change hands for e1500 without radio or rigs. The boats need three different suits of sails to suit different wind conditions, A suit being the most often

used, an A rig main and jib sell for £84 for the bare sails and suitable for light to moderate conditions. On top of that is the mast and booms and all the rigging. Oh, and the radio another 150 minimum new.

Setting all this up is not for the novice but we will always guide people willing to try. The easiest route is to buy second hand, and these can be had locally from about 600 for a complete outfit ready to sail still competitive at club level

To be able to sail competitively takes a lot of practice and there are many adjustments and tweaks that make for good results. Although we are predominantly male retirees there are both young and old, females and youngsters.

The most common question we get asked is “ where is the propeller “ these boats are only wind powered the sails are by a winch and there is a servo that works the rudder for steering although in reality in medium to strong winds the boat is actually “aimed” by the angle of the sails.

There are some quite good “out of the box “boats available now and they mostly sail well but They can’t compete with an IOM in most cases they are smaller and not suit-

Excellent win by The Excellence!

The Excellence returned a magnificent 9-1 victory over The Pine Nuts in the Costa Blanca Independent Pool League first division to remain top of the table. Undefeated, The Excellence winners were Jackie Norris, Dave Baker, John Dummett, Darren Mountain, Martin Curran, and Sean Norris.

The Young Boys defeated Hals Heroes 7-3, with John Smyth, Pete Cleaver, Mick Margerum, and David Stevens chalking up wins.

The Rancheros returned a 7-3 away win at The Almoradians, with Steve Gray, Kenny Greenhow, Colin McDonald, David Temple, and Keith Oakes cueing wins for the victors.

In division two, The Dream Team gained a 6-4 away win at El Raso Mixtures; The Taverners defeated Monte Azul away 7-3, with The Jokers returning a 6-4 win against Cab Buddies.

able for the open sea only for ponds and lakes. Despite the fact that there are quite a few very good Spanish sailors there are not actually very many venues. Several times a year there are regattas held at Torrevieja and there have been international events there too but it is not a club venue like Lo Pagan. Even some of our members travel for an hour or more to sail and we have one travels from Calpe. Most of these skippers only sail at regattas and they often travel from one end of the country to the other to compete. There are some very big

clubs in France and one of the best is at Pierlotte where the worlds were held a few years ago. There was excellent film and commentary coverage and it can still be watched by putting “IOM worlds Pierlotte into you tube. This is such a satisfying hobby the scenery is amazing, it’s silent, no noise or pollution but at competition level quite stressful the level of concentration required is quite tiring. Come along and join us you can always go into the restaurant above for a coffee and watch us from the balcony.

FANCY A FUN NEW ACTIVITY?

come along and we'll help you all the way. We meet at 10.30 on Monday mornings. Food and drink available.

For more information, please visit WESTVILLES on Facebook or www.westvilles.com or phone 966 78 5651/666 654 202.

Westvilles is situated behind Guardamar park camping.

AsociaciÛn de Vecinos

Cabo Roig y Lomas-Orihuela Costa

COME

AVCRL is an International non-political residents' association for Orihuela Costa, the aim of which is to ensure that all residents get a fair deal.

We canvas the Orihuela Government for proper maintenance and conservation of our public roads, parks, beaches, gardens, etc.

Membership of the Association is free of charge. If you want to help us achieve our goal of a better future for the area.

JOIN US NOW

Fill in your membership form through our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/avcrlorihuelacosta

ADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385

RESULTS FOR 16 FEBRUARY WEEK 17

Mind the Gap5-7Hub Hyenas

Hub Hellraisers2-10Leeson St Trotters

CC´s Bees10-2Fallen Angels

Tipsy Toad Tiaras0-12CK1 Lads

Danny´s Bar10-2Pint Depot Queens

Freakie Taverners8-4Domino´s Desp

Milo´s3-9El Capitan

Ck1 Ladybirds3-9Tipsy Toppers

Angel Delights0-12CC´s Flyers

League Table P Pts Legs

Mind The Gap1732179

Hub Hyenas1732160

El Capitan1729148

Tipsy Toad Toppers1726138

CC´S Bees1726132

CC's Flyers1725136

Leeson St Trotters1720111

Ck1 Lads1719117

Danny's Bar1718103

Milo´s1716101

Freakie Taverners171695

Fallen Angels171385

Ck1 Ladybirds171074

Domino's Desperados17869

Tipsy Toad Tiaras17862

Hub Hellraisers17546

Angel Delights17343

Pint Depot Queens17034

MOST 180´S: Dave Rowlinson CC`s Bees x 4.

HIGHEST FINISH TO DATE: 154 - Mario GarciaFreakies. THIS WEEK: James Brown - Mind The Gap 100 (20-D20-d20).

MIND THE GAP V HUB HYENAS

Despite this loss, Gap maintain their "top of the league" status at the conclusion of the league's 1st half, a brilliant 17 week run. Both sides were missing crucial players, barely noticeable in this table topping clash.

An early Hub lead via Bob Taylor D20, was quickly wiped out by a James Brown T15,D20 finish in the 2nd and S20,D20,D20, in the 3rd. Bliss Wright got in on the act in the 5th, with a D20,D20, out, Brown just supporting in this one with 2x100. Mark Ellis 116 and Jay Wilkinson 160 and a D16 kept Hub in the hunt at 4-2.

Dario Sierra 100, D16, overcame a below par Carlos Escansiano, Darren Sanderson 140,100, relieved to eventually find D1 over Taylor for 5-3. lt looked

Gap's match, but Hub's Ellis,137,D20, Wilkinson D5 and Pete Spence 2x100, D20 tipped the balance 5-6 with 1 game to play.

Che Liam with throw faced Hub's Andre Wing,in the last game, both raced to a double, their finishing below par to say the least. Wing eventually coming out on top with a D5 for the match. POTMWright - Ellis.

Both Gap and Hyenas finish 2 pts shy of a maximum 34 pts. Hyenas remain unbeaten with 2 draws, Gap losing to Hyenas.

C.C.BEES V FALLEN ANGELS

A solid all round performance from Bees was too much for the visiting Angels who were reliant on just 2 of their players Tony Spiers and Graham White, both providing, a singles victory, Spiers gaining a POTM with 100,109,118,121 and three 80+'s, White 2x100, 4x80+.

Paul Tollafield won the points scoring 7th leg on D4, along with 2 other winning legs, but it was Reg Christopher earning POTM with 3x100,120,140. Paul Christopher backing up with three outer rings, Liam Lumb adding two more.

TIPSY TOAD TIARAS V C.K. 1 LADS

POTM Pat Schofield nailed a 180 in the practice which worried the lads and followed this up with a 134 in the match but alas none of her arrows struck home for a finish.

As was the case for all the ladies, although Lisa Ivill copped a 102 and there were a smattering of 80 and 90+´s for her and her teammates. Other than this, the left side of the score sheet didn´t get much decoration. Not so for the lovely lads from Via Park III who littered the paperwork with some consistent high scoring.

Terry David was the first to achieve a 140 and was later matched by Steve Monk Dalton. Steve Mullen rattled off several tons during the night and was marginally the most impressive and consistent, earning himself POTM. Paul Green´s nail biter in the last leg saw Lisa Ivill take the first throws for the leg but he eventually sunk in the winning dart to give the lads a max scoreline.

DANNYS BAR V PINT DEPOT QUEENS

Dannys reeled off the 1st six legs without reply from the Queens, the visitors only scores of note from Ronnie Bowden, Debbie Wright, Alison Wands and Lorraine Cox. Danny's scores from the Lumbs, Steve, 125 and Lesley 121.

Jan Norbury D2, claimed both points for the hosts

in the 7th, Jean Randall D3 and S. Lumb 100,D5 making it 9-0. Cox 114,D2 and Wright countered for Queens, L.Lumb closing the match with a fine 67 out. Jan Norbury - Lorraine Cox - POTM.

FREAKIE TAVERNERS V DOMINOS DESPERADOS

Doubles from Freakies Sharon Frain, Mitch Halliday and Mario Garcia, were matched in the 1st half by Cathy Wallbanks, Ray Hayes (plus a couple of tons) and an excellent showboat D7,D9 out, for 3 apiece. Steve Harding nailing a 140.

By Paul Durrant

Maiden, both with 2 outs, Phil de Lacy top scoring with 140. Best of the bunch and earning POTM was the much travelled Andy Rutter, contributing 100, 105,120,125,135 and a nice singles victory over Ralph.

ANGELS DELIGHTS V C.C.S FLYERS

Delights put in a good scoring shift this week unfortunately so did the Flyers who amassed a decent total of 15 three figure scores even without their mentor Matt Smith.

On this form they will cause upsets in Division 1 after the pairs competitions. Sharon Williams was outstanding for Delights, but unable to convert scores into doubles, but still earning a POTM award. Pick of the Flyers bunch was a John McKay singles 100,140,D16, plus 2 more outs, Suso Madrid 100,121,123,140 and 2 winning legs, & Jesus Madrid meriting POTM with 2x100,140 and multiple 80+'s.

At the resumption, Ernie Willis D10, Bryan Livsey 123, D17 and Noel Kenny 97,95,D20 ensured the hosts at least a point, before Dave Oats halted the slide. Halliday D4 got Freakies over the line, Frain D11 notching up Freakies 8th. POTM - KennyHarding.

MILOS V EL CAPITAN

Milos found it tough going against 3rd placed Caps, and although just winning 3 legs they have the makings of a very good outfit. Winning legs from Fabian, Javi de Gea and Cain Garcia, one a real belter from de Gea 100,100,121,120,D5 versus Vycka Bobinas 2x100, showed just what they can do. Garcia adding 3x100.

Caps weighed in with 15 tons or more, the best by far from Andres Liamazares, 2 outer circles and 3x100, and 2x125, Bobinas 4x100,125. Watch out Gap, the Caps are up for the title. POTM - de GeaLiamazares

C.K.1 LADYBIRDS V TIPSY TOAD TOPPERS

Birds failed to find any sort of form this week, only Angie Mullen and Dons Ralph hitting scores of note, resulting in just 3 wins. Finding the outer circle were Sue Christie, Dons Ralph for POTM and Gena Wood.

For Toppers, creditable showings from Paddy Winterbourne 2x100 and 2 outs, Andy Gildea, Lee

HUB HELLRAISERS V LEESON ST TROTTERS

Trotters took no prisoners as they doubled out the 1st seven legs for both points, the 7th won by Yvonne Rouffignac 140, D5 over a spirited effort from Linda Davies. Raisers Sue Spiers regularly finding the treble, assisted by Joy Gorman and Ann Taylor.

lt was nevertheless all Trotters in the opening six, 3 figure scores from Kain Hickman, Barry Shingler & the Skinners Amanda and Ken, the latter finding 2 outs. Shingler made it 8 for Trotters before Spiers took the valuable scalp of A. Skinner for POTM, Ron Chadwick nailing his 2nd outer ring for POTM in the 10th. Gorman completed her 501 before the other Skinner, (Ken), for the Raisers 2nd leg of the evening, Hickman finishing the match with D5 for 2-10.

LADIES PAIRS 23 FEB & MENS PAIRS 2 MARCH.

Several players are seeking partners for each competition, contact Simone de Lacy for further information.

Mark &Bliss, POTM

POTM, Steve &Noel

Hellraiser winners &Leeson St losers

Emerald Isle Bowls Club

Titans began the week at home to Greenlands Maples and the result went with the visitors 5-7 Aggregate of 83-93. S

Verity G Wallis Julian Pering 24-14, D Jones I Grimshaw R Marks 23-16, N Davis N Prior D Gerrard drew 17-17

Neptunes played against San Miguel Orcas at home and had a fine 10-2 Aggregate of 93-61 win M Riley R

Pollock R White 25-11, M Oakley M Ellis J Pooley 17-8, S Ellis B Eldred B Fenty 18-16, S Johnson J Fenty J Loughran 20-12

Moonrakers were at San Miguel Sting Rays and slipped to a defeat by 4-8, Aggregate of 76-77. D Clark J Ball K John 24-

10, J Forrest A Gower T Upham 18-14

Cavaliers took on Greenlands Cedars away and came from there with a fine 12-0 Aggregate 127-57 win D Jones M

Munro C Lindgren 31-4, P Heaney G Odell B Kavanagh 348, N Davis M Veale D Gerrard 22-12, S Verity Jo Pering

Julian Pering 18-14 N Prior M Dyer A M Gerrard 22-19

Claymore played at home against La Marina Seagulls and slipped to a 5-7 Aggregate 76-88 defeat M Oakley M Ellis J Pooley 21-11, M Raine C Wilson J Loughran 17 -14, S Ellis J Fenty B Fenty 13-13 draw

Remember SAPS on Saturday at 1.15, just 5 Euros for bowling with coaching and Shoes, Bowls supplied and bar.

By Elwyn Morris

SOUTHERN LE SOUTHERN LEAAGUE GUE

FRID FRIDAAY 17 FEBRUAR Y 17 FEBRUARY Y

DIVISION DIVISION A

SanLuisLions94(88CountryBsGeckos(4)80

GreenlandsOaks100(8)VbellaLanzadores(4)72

GreenlandsCedars57(0)EmIsleCavaliers(12)127

LaMarinaSharks92(5)SMiguelApaches(7)85

P PWWDDLLDifDifffPts Pts

QuesadaSwallows1339422235106

GreenlandsOaks1439427178104

SanLuisLions13412226798

EmeraldIsleCavaliers143832914693

CountryBowlsGeckos143463010193

VistabellaLanzadores1336227785

LaMarinaSharks1324338-16959

SanMiguelApaches1322439-17056

GreenlandsCedars1312251-39524

DIVISION B DIVISION B

VistabellaPicadors94(10)LaSiestaGolds(2)70

QuesadaSwans91(6)LaSiestaBlues(6)87

EmIsleClaymores76(5)LaMarinaSeagulls(7)88

SanMiguelNavajos93(10)QuesadaSwifts(2)72

P PWWDDLLDifDifffPts Pts

QuesadaSwans1441128157103

SanMiguelNavajos133722614288

QuesadaSwifts133432811787

LaMarinaSeagulls13335275787

EmeraldIsleClaymores133332910885

LaSiestaGolds1434135-6081

LaSiestaBlues14321371472

VistabellaPicadors1329036-7870

ElRanchoMustangs1318245-45740

DIVISION C DIVISION C

CBowlsPanthers87(10)GreenlandsElms(2)70

SanMiguelCíches79(4)MímarMatadors(8)87

LaSiestaSilvers68(3)SanLuisTigers(9)91

P PWWDDLLDifDifffPts Pts

CountryBowlsPanthers113701820394

SanLuisTigers123632118093

MontemarMatadors123232511384

SanMiguelCommanches123322511081

EmeraldIsleOutlaws1126326-5763

VistabellaConquistadors1120332-11042

LaSiestaSilvers1218537-27744

GreenlandsElms1118136-16236

La Siesta Bowls Club - Alan Carr

Division (B) The Blues welcomed San Miguel Navajos to La Siesta for an afternoon game which resulted with good wins on all of our rinks to claim the full 12 points (Shots 109-54).

The winners were; Joy & Brian Gardiner with Jean Cooper (26-9). Dawn & John Taylor with Harold Charleton (23-7). Kathleen & Noel Morrisroe with Derek Biggs (24-12). Ramsay Sinclair, Martin Harley & Karen Kirk (18-11). Les Bedford, Norman Adcroft & Jim Gracie (18-15).

An away game for the Golds to Quesada to play the Swans, where we just lost out on one rink but secured four points for wins on two others. Rinks won by; Tracey Paffett, Judy Carroll & Ken Barber (1914). Mags Haines, Derek Barker & John

Skipper (19-14). Result 4-8 (Shots 74-89).

Division (C) Not a very good home result for the Silvers against Country Bowls Panther`s, which saw the visitors leave with the full 12 points (Shots 68-103).

Enterprise For the Apollos afternoon game it was La Marina Pathfinders, where we got close on two rinks and ended up winning on three by; Ramsay Sinclair, Martin Harley & Karin Kirk (30-11). Kathleen & Noel Morrisroe with Mike Inns (25-18). Joy & Brian Gardiner with Jim Gracie (17-12). Won 8-4 (Shots 97-74).

Discovery The Pioneers were entertained by Vistabella Drivers, who won on four rinks but were unable to stop, Tracey Paffett, Judy Carroll & Ken Barber (1813) from winning on the other for two points and the game ended 2-10 (Shots

69-101).

Voyager The Sputniks played host to Monte Mar Matadors, which saw some rinks going very close and could have gone either way, which is reflected in the overall (Shots 90-98).

The game ended with wins on two rinks by; Jim Gwynn, Maggie & Steve Gray (22-17). Lesley & Wayne Howlett with David Whitworth (19-17). Result 4-8.

Interested in joining La Siesta members run bowls club, there is always something going on with George¥s Chicken and Egg, every Wednesday 1.30 for 2pm, Mike & Grahams roll up every Saturday 930 for 950 am.

Just pop in or call the President George 865 772 498 or the Captain Wendy 633 068 399 for information.

San Miguel Bowls Club With Barry Jones

On Monday all three teams were in action, one team at home and two teams were away. The home team was San Miguel Stingrays who played Emerald Isle Moonrakers, where they won 8 -4, 77-76. The best winning triple were Peter Parker, Adam Ingram and Alan Harris 21 - 9. It was also noted that the Stingrays had their first win of the season.

San Luis Bowls by Sheila Cammack

South Alicante League, Enterprise Div. (A); on Saturday 11th the Klingons were away v Greenlands Maples, to replay our washed-out match from the previous Monday. Play started normally but after a few ends the rain began again. We battled on in the cold and wet, eventually managing to complete 2/3 of the total ends as required. A miserable morning with just one winning team: Giuseppe Galelli, Caroline Smyth, Ian Kenyon 25-4, 2 points-10, but close on shots 59-62.

On Monday 13th Klingons were at home v Quesada Pearls in a closely fought match Shots 92-101, points 6-6, but although it was cold, at least this time there was no rain!! Winners: Margaret Morrison, Vic Mahomet, Neil Morrison 20-18, Kath Reid, Caroline Smyth, Ian Kenyon 26-17, Neil & Sandra Burrows, Ian Kenyon 20-18.

Voyager Div. (C) Trekkers had a good result at home v Greenlands Beech, shots 84-67, points 8-4. Winners: John Bagnall, Bill Webb, Dave Webb 18-8, Chris Jackson, Dave Notely, Peter Baldwin 14-13, Dave Louis, Dee Hoey, Barbara Louis 32-8.

Southern League (Div A) on Friday 17th the Lions, after a close fought match, at home v Country Bowls Geckos had a good result; points 8-4, shots 94-80. Winners: Kath Reid, Caroline Smyth, Ian Kenyon 19-18, Neil & Sandra Burrows, Scott Malden 33-11, Giuseppe Galelli, June Jones, Keith Jones 13-11. (Div C) the Tigers also had a great result, some matches could have gone either way but finished in our favour; 9 points -3, 91 shots-68. Winners: Kevin McKenna, Sheila Cammack Vic Mahomet 14-12, Jane Hamill, Cas Blay, Stewart Hamill 27-6, Ray Watmough, Ralph Jones, Barry White 14-14, Sheila Cooper, John Dowell, Carolyn Harris 21-17.

On Wednesday 15th we had another morning of Club Championship Finals: the Ladies’ & Men’s Pairs. Most of the week has been chilly and Wednesday was no exception; not easy for the players, some well “layered up” against the cold, trying to negotiate variable, gusty winds and not much fun for the spectators, also wrapped up in a variety of warm coats, woolly hats & scarves!!

In the Ladies’ pairs it was Ngaio Baldwin & Jane Hamill v Mary Lockley & Caroline Smyth, with Mary & Caroline the winners. The Men’s match was Neil Morrison & Ian Kenyon v Giuseppe Galelli & Keith Jones. It was a close finish but Neil & Ian took the trophy.

One of the away teams were San Miguel Dolphins who played Vistabella Albatrosses losing 10 - 2, 114-66. The winning triple were Jan Farmer, Lynn Greenland and Gail Willshire 25-12. The other away team, the Orcas played Emerald Isle Neptunes also losing 10 -2, 93-61. The winning triple were Stan North, Sharon Louise and Bill Brownlee 14-13.

On Wednesday in the Winter League, San Miguel were home to El Rancho, where they had another great win 8-0, (third 8-0 win on the trot), 84-20. The best winning rink were Allan Patterson, Lee Sinclair, Alan Campbell and Derek Farmer 34 -5.

On Friday all three teams were in action, San Miguel Navajos were home to Quesada Swifts, where the Navajos won 10 - 2, 93-72. There were two best winning triples, Sharon Louise, Pete Masters & Mike Douglas 23 - 9, and Stan North, Frank Scotthern and Bob Donnelly 25 -11. San Miguel Apaches were away to La Marina Sharkes, winning 7 - 5, 85-92. Best winning triple were Allan Patterson, Don Darby and Derek Farmer 25 -15.

In the afternoon San Miguel Comanches were home to Monte Mar Matadors Losing 8 - 4, 79-87 The best winning triple were Adam Ingram, Barry Jones and Ken Hope 27 - 11.

A reminder that the Wasps sessions take place Wednesdays 1.30pm for 2.00pmeuro 5 for an afternoon’s bowling with shoes.To book, please call Dave or Lynn Greenland on +34 667 207 508.

San Miguel B.C. only pays owner fees and a club fee. NO LEAGUE RINK FEES.

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

Neil Morrison & Ian Kenyon.

Mary Lockley &Caroline Smyth

La Marina Bowls - Dave Hadaway

Monday the 13th and both our Explorers and Pathfinders are playing teams at the bottom of their current league tables. The Pathfinders last year crept ahead of the Explorers and got promoted to Division 1, were to be fair they are finding it quite difficult – St Louis Clingons, La Marina Pathfinders and St Louis Apollos are being squeezed a little at the bottom and today the Pathfinders and Apollos (the 2 bottom teams) Pathfinders 50 points, Apollos 44 points play each other, our Pathfinders are away and end up losing 4-8. With a shot dif-

Vistabella Bowls Club

Monday 13th February, Vistabella Albatrosses Division A, were at Home to San Miguel Dolphins, Winning on 4 Rinks, plus the Shots, Mo Foulcer, Maggie Furness, Eric Bishop 22-19, Lynne Bishop, Carol Thorpe, Gary Thorpe 31-6, Olwyn Ratcliffe, Stuart Allman, Brian Dunn 24-7, Geraldine Fisher, Arthur Brown, Gordon Fisher 25-9, Shots 114-66. Points 10-2.

Vistabella Drivers Division B, were at Home to La Siesta Pioneers, Winning on 4 Rinks plus the Shots, Steve Baxter, Jim Jepson, Derek Howe 25-12, Ron Smith, Brian Gilham, Brian Pointon 21-13, Alan Whitley, John Goddard, Alice Howe 18-11, Hillary, James, Sue Wilson, Derek Stevenson 24-15, Shots 10169. Points 10-4.

Vistabella Eagles Division C, were Away to Quesada Rubies, Winning on 2 Rinks and Drawing on 1 Rink, Avril Kendall, Peter Westwood, Sheila Westwood 1912, Rosemarie Savage, Ken Savage, Keith Black 21-13, Maureen Slater, Dave Bruce, Freddie Willey 15-15, Shots 79-98. Points 5-7.

Wednesday 15th February, Vistabella in the Winter League were Away to Bonalba, Winning on 2 Rinks, Geraldine Fisher, Barbara Brown, Arthur Brown, Gordon Fisher 19-10, Freddie Willey, Alice Howe, Carol Thorpe, Gary Thorpe 20-14, Shots 47-51. Pts 4-4.

Friday 17th February, Vistabella Lanzadores Division A, were Away to Greenlands Oaks, Winning on only 2 Rinks, Richard Lee, Maggie Furness, Eric Bishop 23-8, Lynne Bishop, Barbara Brown, Gary Thorpe 19-17, Shots 72-100. Points 4-8.

Vistabella Picadors Division B, were at Home to La Siesta Gold's, Winning on 4 Rinks plus the Shots, Frank Barclay, Steve Wilson, Derek Stevenson 17-9, Ron Smith, Norman Stephens, Alan Bannister 25-10, Alan Whitley, John Goddard, Alice Howe 16-15, Steve Baxter, Jim Jepson, Derek Howe 19-16, Shots 94-70. Points 10-2. (Brian Zelin - W/E 18th February)

EL RANCHO BOWLS CLUB

On monday the Pintos were at La Marina playing their Explorers where a varying wind brought a few surprises in bowling line, but as ever we had an enjoyable match with the points being shared 6 all. The Explorers took the rinks 3-2, whilst the Pintos took the overall shots by a small margin, a good away result with two of the losses being by 1 and 2 shots.

Ria Dukker, Sheila Cox and Malc Sykes 17-19. Ann Abbott, Dolly Ford and Brian Harris 13-21. Chris Ziepe, Bob Day and John Ziepe 13-10. Sue Ziepe, Steve Ziepe and Mike Cox 24-11. Kevin Henry, Judy Foley and Ron Greenstreet 15-16.

Wednesday found our winter league team playing at San Miguel, a tough match against a good team on San Miguel’s very heavy mat. El Rancho coming away without a point.

On friday the Mustangs had a bye. Bowlers of all levels are welcome at El Rancho, for further membership information contact Sheila Cox at micksheilacox@gmail.com.

ference of 74-97, leaving us 54 points and Apollos 52 points and a fight to the finish.

Our other team the Explorers played against El Rancho Pintos, but from a very difference perspective, Our Explorers are currently on top and looking very strong although today we had to settle for a draw at 6 pts each. We won 3 trips but lost the shot difference 77-82. Our 3 winning trips were, Kath Manning, Jim Reeves & Mike Stone, 19-17 – Steve Wright with Carol & Mike Smith 16-15, and Janet Parsons, Margaret Finlayson & Tom Spencer 21-13.

GREENLANDS BC

By Chris Dewar

Monday Maples entertained E.Isle and in a hard fought encounter came away with a 7-5 and 93-83 win. Best rink D,Donovan,C.Broomfield and P.Bonsor.

Next up the Chestnuts paid a visit to Quesada and after a very close game they managed to come away with a draw. 6-6 and shots 87-83 to Greenlands. Best rinks B.Tomlin,B.Ewart & T. Hodges. Well done all.

Beech visited San Louis and put up a great fight but went down 8-4 and 67-84. B.Farrington, B.Hayes and R.Farrington,, and C.Taylor,M.Cozzi and R.Watley. Great effort by all.

In The winter league the Warriors entertained a very strong BBC team and lost by 2-6 and 39-47. All fought hard to the end. S.Cordell, L.Oliver and S.Watson.

The Gladiators entertained Javea and in a close game came away with a 5-3 and 49-47. best rink C.Sobbart,J.Taylor and P.Bonsor.

Friday the Oaks entertained a strong Vistabella team and managed a 8-4 and 100-72. The Cedars entertained a very strong E.I.

Country Bowls 17 Feb

On Monday both our teams had a bye so a fun game was organised and 24 players turned out to play a ‘Chicken Run’and an enjoyable morning was had by all. Prizes were presented to the winners, Chicken to Keith Holliman, Legs to Graham Richardson, Eggs to Gary Ponsford.

On Friday in the Southern League the Geckos travelled to San Luis and found it hard going in the Lions den but came away with 4 points 80 points to 94. Winning rinks were Sheila Whitehall, John Jukes, Ray Robson 16 to 14, Del Gunning, Derek Lewis, Peter Whitehall 24 to 15.

Monte Mar Bowls Club

Sponsored by The Pub,Gran Alacant Insurances,Dialprix,The Belfry,Sunrise Builders,and Dunbars.

Voyager Div - v La Siesta Sputnicks

Away at La Siesta we had a good win against the Sputnicks winning on three rinks and the shots well done: Sheila Roberts,Sue Bounds skip Phil Goble,Gina Hindle,Chris Harding skip Joan Harding, Lynne Armitage,Steve Hindle skip Keith Young.Shots Matadors 98 – 90 Sputnicks. Pts Matadors 8 – 4 Sputnicks.

Friday and our Sharks were at home to San Miguel Apaches, where we won 1, drew 1, and won the overall shots 82-75 giving us 5 points to 7. Our winning trip was Kath Manning, Carol Smith & Peter Parsons with a score of 30-3.

The Seagulls meanwhile had to travel to The Emerald Isle, and came away with a very satisfactorily win of 7-5 and a shot difference in our favour of 88-76, our winning trips were Trevor Stemp, Alan Birch, Alex Maurice 23-9, Audrey Birch, Norman Ship & Garth Slater 27-16, and drawing trip being Dave & Lesley Joynes with Len Daniels at 13 each.

team and unfortunately went down to a 0-12 and 57-127. The Elms made to long trip to Country Bowls and although they put up a good fight they went down to a 2-10 and 70- 87 loss. Best rink V.Richards,B.Hayes and P.Taylor.

If you enjoy a mix of competitive and fun bowling in a friendly environment at a wonderful venue. If you want to share in and contribute to our continued success, if you are interested in joining our Club, why not give one of us a call?

Also coaching available either groups or individual, by fully qualified coaches. Equipment available.

Pete Bonsor (Captain) 711 02 08 46 - Keith Stobbart (President) 693 06 53 55 - Chris Dewar, Match Secretary 698 418 987

Joes roll up every Saturday morning 10 for10.30, entry fee 1 euro. FANTASTIC PRIZES, non members are welcome and pay a green fee of 6 euros. A great social event each week, food and drink available after. Just turn up before10am.

There is also an adventure golf course available for the Husband or wife and children whilst the partner,s are playing bowls just book at the bar.

The Panthers were at home to Greenlands Elms continuing their good form only loosing on one rink, points 10 to 2, shots 87 to 70. Winning rinks were Jayne Storey, Phil Newham, Kevin Storey 21 to 10, Liz Mildon, Colin Roberts, Dean Webb 18 to 11, Graham Richards, Keith Holliman, Steve Wailes 22 to 171, Val Lever, Geoff Eggleton, Allan Lever 16 to 11. New members and guests are always made welcome at the only club in Murcia region competing in the Lavante Lawn Bowls Leagues, why not come along to one of our roll up mornings on Tuesday, Thursday or Sunday at 10 am.

By PeterDix

QUESADABCR/UP

BySteveHibberd

Division C - v San Miguel Commanches. Another away game at San Miguel this time we had a another good win.Winning on three rinks and the shots well done: Sheila Roberts,Les Bounds skip Keith Young,Lyne Armitage,Steve Leatherland skip Cindy Bedford,Sue Bounds,Ronnie Cairns skip Neil Crawford.

Shots Matadors 87 – 79 Commanches.Pts Matadors 8 – 4 Commanches.

In the South Alicante winter league div 1, Pearls visited near neighbours San Luis, where they fought out a creditable 6-6 draw. Not only did these 2 rinks win, but overall shots were secured - M Highland, T& PMorgan 25-15. G Carnell, V Campbell, F Roberts 23-11. Diamonds also had a 6-6 draw, but they had 3 winning rinks, but inferior shots difference. At home to Greenlands Chestnuts, here's the point scorers - D Benson, C Lowry, ABenson 15-10. A Bowen, B Elliott, K Lowry 20-18. C Skinner, PFarrell, G Skinner 21-19. Top of div 3, Rubies are full of confidence at the moment, and once again they came up with the goods. Vistabella Eagles were the visitors, and although they fought valiantly, they were no match for Joe's gang, who triumphed 7-5. That's the way to do it - J Cleal, M Holmes, D Riley 15-15. S Johnston, B & LMiller 38-7. T Brinton, C Bowles, AReid 20-17.

Friday's Southern league results paled into insignificance compared to our Monday crew. Swallows had a bye, but they still lead div A, and have a game in hand. But, in div B, both our teams were in action.

Swifts must have had a turbulent flight down to San Miguel, for those pesky Navajos claimed quite a few scalps. Only the trips of neighbours S Johnston, plus Mr & Mrs Miller 30-8, found the going easy, for a 2-10 reversal has seriously damaged hopes of being champs of div B. Things are going swimmingly for those majestic Swans, who continue to grind away important results, Against La Siesta Blues, they not only won on 2 rinks, but added 2 bonus points by securing overall shots by 4. So, a 6-6 draw means it's status quo at the top, but there's still a few matches to go, and they have played a game more than nearest rivals. Get in there - H Olsen, D Gould, B Rees 27-12. LArmstrong, PBottle, TVoisey 23-11.

Country Bowls at home

THE RIVIERA COUNTRY CLUB at Pacific Palisades has hosted the Genesis Invitational since 1926. Ben Hogan won in 1947 and 1948, creating the nickname, “Hogan’s Alley.” Also called at various times the Los Angeles Open, Northern Trust and Nissan Open, the Genesis Invitational, played in February was always the concluding event of the tour's "West Coast Swing."

Whatever happens this month there probably won't be a sixman playoff to beat the one that occurred in 2001. It took place in conditions so wet the second hole of the playoff would have been declared unplayable, but 28 yr. old Australian Robert Allenby fought through the torrential rain to beat his rivals with a birdie at the first extra hole, after landing his ‘greatest 3-wood shot of my life’ approach to just five-feet.

In 1962 Jack Nicklaus earned his first prize money of $34 as a pro in the Los Angeles Open at Riviera. In 1992, The Nissan Open was the site of Tiger Woods' first PGA Tour event as a 16-year-old high school amateur. He missed the cut.

THEY DON'T MAKE'EM like that anymore. A plaque at Prince's Golf Club, Sandwich marks where Percy “Laddie” Lucas used his local knowledge of his home course to make an emergency landing after his Spitfire was crippled over France.

Considered one of the best left-handed players in the game, Lucas volunteered for the RAF when World War II broke out and earned the Distinguished Flying Cross after the defence of Malta in 1942. But it was a year later when returning to RAF Manston after a raid over northern France that his

Granadella Trail Jávea/Xàbia

Spitfire was damaged by enemy fire and smoke filled the cockpit. Losing altitude, and fearing he might have to ditch, Lucas spotted the outline of Sandwich Bay and the clubhouse. Just as his engine died, he glided in keeping the clubhouse as a marker, and landed belly-up out of bounds. He recalled being very unhappy at the state of the greens and his continuing inability to hit the 9th fairway. His friend Henry Longhurst sent him a telegram next day with the words: “Out of bounds again Lucas!” COBRA's NEW AEROJET drivers have been receiving positive reviews. Bryson DeChambeau however, disappointed his Cobra sponsors and left their latest offering out of his bag at the Saudi International, opting instead for the Stealth 2 Plus with it's 15gm moveable weight, speed pocket and adjustable hosel. It didn't do him any good, he missed the cut.

AUSSIE CAMERON SMITH was enjoying a few beers with his mates on the Friday night in Melbourne because he'd thought he’d missed the cut at the Australian Open. But when he heard his 2-over total had surprisingly proved good enough to play on into Saturday, he went on the wagon for the rest of the night. It didn't help him, next morning in Round 3 he missed the secondary cut by two shots. Back to the pub! club JUSTIN ROSE WON the AT&T at Pebble Beach with rounds of 69, 69, 65 and 66, his first PGA Tour win in four years.

Justin, always popular with his fellow golfers, received congratulatory claps on the back from his defeated rivals. Asked about LIV he said he would never criticise anyone for leaving the Tour but personally winning titles mattered more to him. Proud of the “Justin Rose Room” at his old club North Hants, founded as a 'Gentleman's Club in 1904, Justin says he learnt golfing etiquette from the members, who instilled standards into him as a lad and could probably have taught him to fly a Spitfire.

DON'T KNOW why the PGA Tour refuses players permission to wear shorts but allows them to play in joggers, the most ludicrous legwear ever seen on a golf course, especially with the 4” gap above the socks. I can imagine the reaction at North Hants.

Until next time: Happy Golfing.

Contact Mick for regripping and repairs. 638 859 475 or visit https://mickthegrip.blogspot.com

motorised wheelchair, has been developed in Spain for those with severe physical impairments.

SCTorrevieja Powerchair Sport

The club will take part in the National championships, & Spanish Cup in April

Los Montesinos Councillor for Sport, Ana Belén Juárez, has been running in the Granadella Trail Jávea/Xàbia. "The true enjoyment of taking part in these races is enjoying landscapes that would otherwise be difficult to reach," said Ana. "Feeling your legs move you forward to discover new environments is very special as you enjoy an activity that makes us stronger and happy”.

Carp-R-Us report.

The penultimate round of the Carp-R-Us Winter League was fished on the Canal del Progres Guardamar (Mercadona stretch). The water level was low and dropped a further few centimetres during the match leaving the water quite shallow, but despite this, everyone caught fish.

The best weights came from the upstream end of the stretch, near the N332 road. First was Paul Burton with 6.76kg from peg 2, just pipping Richard Crawshaw who had 6.64kg from peg 1. Both caught carp on maggot. Third, and catching his first fish in a match this year, was Roy Dainty with 3.56kg from peg 3, and fourth on peg 5 was Terry Screen with 2.62kg. 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.

Quote: 'The new section will be a pioneer in Vega Baja, with help of Torrevieja Hospital staff, we want to extend the invitation to join our club to all people in the Vega Baja' The adapted team game of Powerchair Football, played in a motorised wheelchair, has been developed in

Torrevieja for those with severe physical impairments.

SC Torrevieja Powerchair, supported by Cllr Diana Box, began with the introduction of Powerchair football in Torrevieja.

A statement from the board of directors said: "We are

now determined to make both women's football and inclusive sport a very relevant part of our Club. As a result, we have introduced this sport that will establish a new section in our club, the SC Torrevieja Powerchair.

Since 2015, this adapted collective sport, played in a

We have worked side by side with the Department of Sports and with the forerunners of POWERCHAIR in Torrevieja, Nacho and David mainly, and we have brought it into our club.

The Department of Sports and Torrevieja City Council, have provided storage and sports practice facilities, without which it would be impossible to establish this new sports discipline. This will also be a pioneer in Vega Baja and, with the help of the Torrevieja Hospital staff, we want to extend the invitation of joining our club to everyone in the Vega Baja. Sportingly, the section began its journey in February, with several of our players in the ACPFE League Tournament in Alicante, in an exhibition match.

The National championships will be held in Córdoba in April, with SC Torrevieja Powerchair taking part. Sport is a source of health, camaraderie and happiness and that is how we want it to be at this club and we are all inspired to start this new adventure."

The Riviera Country Club

For the 2nd week in succession, Thader came away with a point from a goalless draw, but that's where the similarity ends.

Unlike last week's drab affair at Catral, this match against runaway league leaders Callosa, provided nonstop excitement.

CD

Callosa

It was a busy Sunday morning in Rojales, for the adjacent gymnasium was hosting an international chess tournament. This coupled with normal busy petanca matches, resulted in cars being abandoned anywhere!

When the 2 teams last played at Callosa, the hosts recorded a narrow 1-0 victory, and have gone from strength to strength ever since.

Playing in shocking pink, the visitors had the ball in the net as early as the 4th min, but a player involved in the build-up was adjudged to be offside.

Amine came to his sides rescue on 11 mins, when he pulled off a superb one handed save from Callosa's David. Ricardo was booked for a foul on Rosquin on 15 mins, which would later prove costly for the visitors centre back.

Midway through the 1st half, Quino had a good effort saved by Callosa's keeper Oscar. Ref Lopez made the first of many bizarre decisions on the half hour mark, when he booked Fran, for it seemed to everyone that he was the victim.

On 40 mins, a trademark 25-yard free kick by Thader's captain Lloyd was punched to safety, only for Fran to blast the rebound over the bar.

All hell broke loose during stoppage time, following a booking to Ricardo for a foul on Ruben. This was then followed by a red card, after the ref eventually realised it was his 2nd of the match.

Straight from kick off, a well worked move, resulted in Rafa shooting agonisingly over the visitor's bar. More yellow cards for both teams followed during a 10 min period, in which the ref was struggling to keep order.

On 53 mins, Rosquin appeared to be hacked down in the penalty area, but play was allowed to continue. From the counter attack, Callosa's dangerous front man David shot into the side netting.

On as sub for Quino, Calderon produced a moment of magic, but when through on goal he was unceremoniously brought down. Once again, our man in the middle saw nothing wrong.

Fran, who by now had been substituted, was shown a 2nd yellow, then a red card, presumably for something he had said. On 84 mins, Calderon appeared to be hit by a flaying Callosa elbow to his face, but it was adjudged to be accidental.

Guido came close to breaking the deadlock for Thader on 80 mins, when from a free kick, his header just missed the target. With

the very last kick of the match, deep into stoppage time, Callosa almost nicked an undeserved winning goal, but thankfully Manuel saw his lob go the wrong side of the bar.

I can honestly say, that I have never seen so many blatant fouls go unpunished, by a match official who administered no less that 13 yellow, and 2 red cards.

Having refereed at this level back in England, I'm at a loss at how the basic principle of refereeing, namely punishing obvious fouls, cannot be adhered to.

Anyway, all in all, a draw was probably a fair result, for 2 teams that gave their all, in a very entertaining match.

WALES AND SCOTLAND STILL IN HUNT FOR COSTA CALIDA CUP

Pedro Martinez Losa's side led at the break through Lauren Davidson's deflected effort,but were blunt in attack,having just two shots in the first 45 minutes in Spain.

The introduction of Real Madrid's Caroline Weir at half-time brought some much needed class,and she teed up fellow substitute Rachel Corsie from a corner to double Scotland's lead.

Ma Serrano pulled one back for Philippines late on with a free-kick,but Scotland saw out the remainder of the game to keep their hopes of glory alive.

Thader skipper Lloyd with Callosa captain and officials. LEFT:One of Thader’s most loyal fans, Pachi

Meanwhile Scotland edged past Philippines to secure their first Pinatar Cup win after a muchimproved second half performance.

SUDUK SUDUK O SOLUTION O SOLUTION

The Scots will now play Wales in their final game on Tuesday kicking off at 3pm while Iceland will meet Phillipines

QUIZ FROM PAGE 14:

7.Piranha.The

brothers.8.Olf.9.Georgia.10.Ray Bradbury.11.100 ft 4 inches (30.58 m).12.Facebook.13.649,739 to 1.14.Naming a pig Napoleon.15.a.Wait a minute (Pussycat Dolls) b.Wait (Beatles) c. I'm waiting for my man (Velvet Underground) d.I'm tired of waiting for you (Kinks) e.Robert De Niro's waiting (Bananarama).16.Jaw muscle.17.Hamburg.Besides the Hanseatic city's mercantile and maritime history, the many rivers, canals and bridges lend to Hamburg's claim as the "Venice of the North".18.Laughing sickness.19.Curling.20.Bobbing for apples (Apples were associated with love or fertility goddesses;the first person to catch an apple would be the next one to marry, a tradition that is echoed in the modern "throwing of the bouquet" at weddings.)

Scotland defender Clark shrugs off a challenge from Bolden

Pinoso CF Aincreased their lead at the top of the Valencia 1st Regional Group 8 following a 1-0 win against fourth placed San Fulgencio on Saturday. Pinoso have 48 points ahead of UE Crevillente FB Aon 43 points.

SC Torrevieja CF on 43 points, meet Racing San Miguel on Sunday (Report and photos will be online on Monday at www.theleader.info).

Guardamar Soccer CD top the table in the 2nd Regional Group 16, on 47 points, with Callosa Deportivo CF Asecond on 43 points following their 2-0 win against Santa Pola CF B.

Guardamar Soccer had netted 64 goals going

into Sunday's fixtures, conceding 11. CF Popular Orihuela sit in fourth spot on 41 points after defeating UD Horadada 3-1. Sporting Albatera are third in 41 points following their 3-0 away win at San Fulgencio who are in 13th place on 15 points.

Valencia 1st Regional Group 8 results: Crevillente FB A2-1 Cox (played 17/2/23). UD

Aspe 3-2 Elche Dream CF A. Pinoso CF A1-0

San Fulgencio A; Algorfa 1-2 Il-Licitana Raval A.

Valencia 2nd Regional Group 16: Callosa

Deportivo CF B 2-0 Santa Pola CF B; CF Popular Orihuela Deportivo 3-1 UD Horadada; San Fulgencio 0-3 Sporting Albatera.

*Argentine left back IÒaki has joined Santa Pola CF from Mutxamel CF. IÒaki is formerly of CFI Alicante and Atletico Benidorm.

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Piranha

The Costa Cálida Pinatar Cup will be decided on the final day,next Tuesday after Wales were frustrated by favourites Iceland as they were held to a goalless draw at the Pinatar Arena. Despite being 16 places higher than Wales in the world rankings,Iceland struggled to carve out any real chances against Gemma Grainger's side. Wales had the better of proceedings throughout, but could not break the deadlock despite chances for Rachel Rowe,Ceri Holland and Jess Fishlock. The draw means Iceland lead the Pinatar Cup, ahead of Wales on goal difference.

ACTION PACKED LOCAL DERBY FULL OF CONTROVERSY