Even at that stage, she said that it was "an opportunity" to formally ask the Consell to expand it’s services, incorporating new procedures that "due to lack of space, or for other reasons, could not previously be provided" but that could now be transferred into to these new facilities.
No 934 Monday 29th August - Sunday 4 September 2022 637 227 385office@theleader.info Keeping people safe and informed for over 18 years - The Costa Blancaís oldest ëFREEíEnglish language newspaper
More than three months after the opening of the 2 million euro Orihuela Costa Emergency centre, much lauded during a visit at the end of May by the mayor, Carolina Gracia, the deputy mayor, José Aix, and several Orihuela councillors, the building is already being called a ‘white elephant’ as, during the height of the summer season, when it’s promised services were most in demand, the facilities continue to operate at half throttle, in what community groups are already calling ‘a sham’.
A 4,700-square-metre building, currently with more offices than staff, only houses the Immigration Office of the National Police, to process NIE’s (Foreigner Identity Documents), and the Local Police, who keep it operational 24 hours a day, both of which were previously accommodated in the Playa Flamenca Town Hall. Three months ago the public were told that only a few small details remained, signage, minor furnishings and so forth, as it’s doors were thrown open during a visit by the mayor, Carolina Gracia, and her entourage.
STORYCONTINUED ON PAGE TWO II SS TT HH EE EE M M EE RR GG EE NN CC YY CC EE NN TT RR EE BB E EE CC OO M M II NN GG AA 22 M M II LL LL II OO NN EE UU RR OO ‘‘ W W HH II TT EE EE LL EE PP HH AA NN TT ’’ ??
It had already been confirmed that the Civil Guard would move in, reintroducing a service that had been suspended in the Town Hall during the pandemic and yet to be replaced, thereby avoiding the 10 kilometre trips to the Torre de la Horadada barracks in order to report crime or file Antoniocomplaints.Sánchez, Councillor Security, said they are being prevented from making the move because of a computer problem; that is to say, the necessary logistics do not exist in the Emergency centre for the office to operate securely, something that the Civil Guard itself must solve with the installation of its private network. Other sources, however, point to a lack of officers. At the moment, there is no date for the start of activities by the Benemérita in the brand new centre, a concrete giant that operates as a near-empty shell.
If you are flying to or from the Costa Blanca on Tuesday 30 August,you may need to consider allowing extra time for your journey by road as the La Vuelta cycle race will be taking to the streets from Elche to Alicante,passing through El Altet,close to the airport,and so local road closures will have an impact on traffic in the area,which may cause problems for those travelling to or from Alicante-Elche Airport.
N E
"THE UNTIED KINGDOM""THE UNTIED KINGDOM" by Mike Shail -by Mike Shail - Aug 2022
P R Y C O R R
ers
The Emergency Centre continues to be a facility that is much in demand by residents of Orihuela Costa, many of whom, during the intervening years, have attended numerous protests and demonstrations in front of the skeleton of the building, in demand of a centre that they consider will significantly improve security in this highly populated area, especially in summer, by providing better response times to emergencies and public services. Orihuela Costa has a stable census of 30,000 people that triples with the arrival of holidaymakers during the summer.
It is the tenth stage of the Cycling Tour of Spain,seen as a showcase selling the charms of Elche throughout the world,which will be broadcast on television in 190 countries with an average of 4.5 million viewers in Spain alone.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
An individual time trial will start from the Palacio de Altamira and will run 17.5 kilometres through the municipal district until it reaches El Altet beach,to finish at the Palacio de la Diputación de Alicante.
Orihuela Costa Emergency Centre
To get an idea of the magnitude, the underground basement has 50 parking spaces, three cells and a fully equipped gymnasium for agents. On the ground floor, for customer services, are the offices, changing rooms, restrooms and a dining room, while at the rear of the plot is a heliport.
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The facility was designed to accommodate Firefighters, Civil Protection and forestry brigades, who would be able to coordinate actions in the southern area of Alicante, and even a SAMU base in summer. It was also designed to act as a communications hub, where emergency and none emergency calls could be routed to the relevant bodies for a smoother and faster response.
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The fire service has already been ruled out, despite the claim by neighborhood organisations that response times would improve as, in most cases, it is the Torrevieja detachment that travels to the Orihuela Costa.
The Consell project, which began in 2010, was paralysed by the builder’s bankruptcy in 2012. How much money was lost during that episode is unclear? It was then taken up again in 2020 by the Orihuela government who awarded the work to the Doalco company for more than 2 million euros, financed by the Generalitat. However, the completion of the first floor, which remains as little more than a building site, still requires a further investment of at least 600,000 euros.
O E T
Our country’s a democracy That is what one believes, But there is much hypocrisy Up governmental sleeves. There is no cash for services Like population’s health, But when it comes to ‘Party’ there is Loads and loads of wealth. Our water leaks from ev’rywhere –Are teams sent to control it? No fear! The money goes elsewhere –The shareholder’s fat wallet. No contracts for the workforce now, The terms are zero hours. But people must survive somehow Despite employers’ powers. Our soldiers are sent out to fight, Westminster’s wish fulfilling, But later, with the law’s hindsight, They’re charged with wrongful killing. Train drivers work and don’t complain But should they take their rest day The companies will cancel trainsNo chance of an ‘Awayday’. A tax cut may just help, but hey –Something could cause concern, The tax on a CEO’s pay Is more than most folk earn. What could be the solution then? How can we make things good? Maybe a revolution when MP’s do what they should.
Meanwhile, members of the Cabo Roig and Lomas Neighborhood Association, in a recent meeting with the chief of the Local Police, José María Pomares, have requested that police control and the number of agents be Thereincreased.arecurrently about 41 officers assigned to Orihuela Costa, where they operate two night patrols, both on the beaches and in the surveillance of illegal dumping of pruning, debris and belongings. Officers are able to call on the use of drones and even surveillance cameras, a measure that is still being studied. They can also be used to supplement the maritime patrol to maintain order in the areas close to the marinas and bathing areas so quite clearly the number of officers currently allocated falls short of those required.
The tour will get underway in calle Diagonal del Palau,next to the facade of the Palacio de Altamira and Plaza del Parque,Maestro Albéniz,Luís Gonzaga Llorente de las Casas,Candalix,Plaza de Benidorm,Avenida de Alicante,Barxell, José Esquitino Sempere,Camino de ItAlicante.willturn to run along the road parallel to the L-20 and connect with Camino de Alicante with Carretera de El Altet, Carretera del Altet – Elche,CV-849, Avenida San Francisco de Asís,Dama de Elche,Sinus Ilicitanus,Carreteta de Urbanova a Arenales. On this road they will ride in the opposite direction towards the municipality of ThereAlicante.will be parking restrictions in various locations from Sunday,to allow the race support vehicles to park,but Tuesday is the big day so be prepared for traffic disruption in the area,with restrictions Warning to Passengers Travelling to Alicante Airport on Tuesday
We have two poems on offer for you this week, the second of which, inspired by the tragic murder of Olivia Pratt-Korbel, and written by David Whitney, can be found on page 16.
Leader Remco Evenepoe
If you would like to see your poem on this page send to: office@theleader.info
THE YOUR FLIGHT PATH INTO AND OUT OF ALICANTE
The Councillor for Beaches of the City Council of Torrevieja, Antonio Vidal, together with the Lifeguard Coordinator of the beaches of Torrevieja, Miguel Guillén, both attended the drill to assess the level and execution of the Accordingservice.to Vidal, La Mata Beach was chosen because of its characteristics as it is prone to this type of situation. The drill was carried out very satisfactorily, according to the coordinator, in a time of just 24 Theminutes.rescueof a member of the public was recreated, which simulated a cardiac arrest, requiring the use of a first aid kit, rescue material, oxygen and AED. The aquatic distress occurred 200 metres from the shore. The lifeguard in charge of the post informed his colleagues of the situation with the rescue equipment and two lifeguards swam to the area where the victim was located. A jet ski with a lifeguard then brought them towards the shore. Once on the shore, the resuscitation tasks began with the DESA material and oxygen. After they had revived the victim, the rescuers, together with the team of medical staff who arrived with an ambulance, then transferred the victim on a stretcher to vehicle wwhere she was moved to the hospital as quickly as possible. The total time of the drill, from the start until the patients arrival at the hospital was less than 30 minutes. AT
Despite the fact that they often have their hands full dealing with real emergencies, beach rescue services carry our regular simulations to ensure that they are always able to provide the best level of service when things go wrong, and La Mata beach in Torrevieja hosted one such event last week.
RESCUE SIMULATION
David Santacreu Fernández, falconer and collaborating professor at the Miguel Hernández University of Elche, is the promoter of the exhibition. In 2018 he began his partnership with Alicante-Elche Airport to demonstrate the value of the role of falcons in airports. Alicante-Elche Airport is one of those that currently maintains the system that was introduced five decades ago and is now contracted as an external service through public tenders. They currently maintain a team of three people and half a dozen birds. When the control tower observes the presence of birds on the runway it contacts the falconer who is then responsible to release the falcon in the area, thereby clearing the runway for critical landing and take-off manoeuvres.
LA MATA
FALCONS PROTECTING
An exhibition has been held at Alicante-Elche Airport to highlight how they are protecting aircraft from bird strikes using nature´s own resources. Each year there are about 14,000 bird-on-plane strikes at airports around the world, and to prevent that happening they are using falcons to prevent birds from causing accidents.
PAGE 3www.theleader.infoADVERTISINGHOTLINE Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022office@theleader.info637 227 385
Travellers to and from Spain warned of planned strike days causing Whiledisruption.strikesat our local airports are unlikely to cause too much disruption to travellers, there will be impacts at airports in Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, Seville and Palma de Mallora with industrial action set to take place across 25 days from September to December. Many workers are protesting against low pay and working conditions as three of the main unions in Spain are in dispute with airport operator CurrentlyAENA. only details of the planned dates in September and December have been made available with those for October and November still to be set yet, but it's anticipated that there will be seven in October and two in November. Dates on which travelling should be avoided in September and December
September:are:Thursday 15, Saturday 17, Thursday 22, Saturday 24, Thursday December:29Monday 26, Tuesday 27, Wednesday 28, Thursday 29, Friday 30 The strikes in December have been set to maximise disruption over the Christmas and New Year period. A spokesman for Ryanair said that passengers shouldn't expect much disruption to their travel plans.
Spain's dams lowest level in nearly 30 years Spanish hydropower dams are at their lowest level in three decades at the end of the summer. This is going to drive up the cost of electricty as Europe's energy crisis intensifies.Hydro capacity stood at 36.9% as of 23 Aug, which is the lowest since 1995. This was confirmed by the data published by the energy ministry.
Forest fire fighters protest poor working conditions
Spain's Transport Minister Raquel Sanchez had previously said that these rules making masks mandatory will henceforth be recommendations. This had resulted in confusion as two days prior to this, Health Minister Carolina Darias had said that masks will remain mandatory for now.
Forest fire fighters from all over Spain gathered before Congress to demand an improvement in their conditions. Jesús, one of the firefighters trapped in the flames of a fire in Almorós, in Toledo said, "Five of us were trapped. The fire blocked our escape route. We are risking our lives for a four-month-a-year contract and earning just over 1,200 euro," he says. Many of them have faced very dangerous situations and are now demanding "labour rights" for the entire force.
The measures include limits on air conditioning in order to save energy. These measures have been introduced to reduce dependence on Russian gas.
Women should swim topless to fight discrimination, say Catalan authorities Women should swim topless in public pools to end the sexualisation of their bodies and to fight discrimination, Catalan authorities have recomThismended.ispart of an advertising campaign that was launched by Catalan authorities to support a woman's right to go topless after some complained they had been stopped from doing so.
Airport workers in Spain will take part in 25 days of industrial action in the coming months
The total investment amounts to 396,338.31 euro (IVAincluded), divided into two lots: one of four hybrid FORD PUMA vehicles (two for the Department of Urban Planning and 2 for the Department of Parks and Gardens), and another lot of 16 FORD TRANSITvans (seven vans with a roof rack, a van adapted for transporting animals, five large vans for transporting goods, a large van with a roof rack and rear ladder and two 9seater vans for transporting people.
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Masks still mandatory on planes despite confusion
The mayor of Los Alcázares, Mario Pérez Cervera, has announced that this year the cleaning and conditioning work has been advanced in anticipation of the storms that, due to the high temperatures that we are registering this summer, may occur in the coming months.
Finally, the mayor has announced that there is still a batch of five vehicles to be delivered, which will be acquired shortly, and which will be assigned to Activities, Social Services, Parks and Gardens, Urban Cleanliness and the Mayor's Office.
This week, Torrevieja town hall took possession of the keys to a fleet of 20 new vehicles that will be used by various municipal departments. The vehicles were all presented in a ceremony held at the Palacio de Deportes in the town. The Mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo DolÛn, together with the Councillor responsible for the aquisition, Carmen GÛmez Candel, have presented these vehicles that considerably expand and renew the fleet of vehicles of Torrevieja Town Hall.
The mayor has reported that these 16 vehicles will be attached to the departments of Works and Services, Parks and Gardens, Sports, Civil Protection, Beaches, Road Signage and Road Protection. Also, Eduardo DolÛn has highlighted the importance of expanding the fleet of vehicles for Civil Protection, which goes from having only one van for transporting personnel to having three more.
Los LosPreparesAlcázaresforRainAlcázarestownhallhasannouncedthat it will intensify and reinforce the cleaning, clearing and maintenance of canals, boulevards, stormwater networks and scuppers for the coming months to minimise the damage that possible torrential rains may cause.
"These two tiny unions who represent only a handful of our Spanish cabin crew have held a number of poorly supported 'strikes' in June and July which have had little or no impact on Ryanair’s flights to or from Spain.
Spain starts working on plan to extend energy saving measures
The Spanish govt has started working on a contingency plan to extend the energy saving measures.
The Spanish govt has clarified that face masks will remain compulsory on planes for the time being.
More strike action planned for Airports across Spain
December strikes will cause disruption over Christmas and New Year
"It is very important that we have all these infrastructures clean and clear for the coming months, to be prepared and prevented in the event of these episodes of heavy rain," explains the councillor for public roads of the municipality María José Benzal.
The measures have now been approved by Parliament which will allow the measures to stay in force.
The town hall has also requested the competent administrations to clean and remove weeds from the D-7 and D-5 canals, which must be in perfect maintenance conditions to fulfil their role and channel the water that reaches Los Alcázares.
Torrevieja takes delivery of new vehicles
The first phase of the Plan will get underway in the children's areas of Parque de las Naciones, Parque de la Estación, Plaza Islas Canarias and Plaza de La Habana, all of which will be renovated. In the Parque de las Naciones, a themed house will be created for children aged 2-3 with interactive games, awnings, two double swings (one with an inclusive chair and the other with a cradle-type chair), an inclusive multigame, a see-saw and inclusive docks. Works will also be undertaken in La Mata, at plaza Encarnación Puchol, plaza Perfecta Rodríguez, the children’s área in la calle Purificación and in the Área Recreativa Municipal “José Eduardo Gil Rebollo”.
In addition to the renovation of all the children's areas of the city, new playgrounds will be built in Mar Azul-Eliseos Playa, Los Balcones, Los Altos, Nueva Torrevieja, Plaza
The Parque de las Naciones
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Refurbishment underway at all of Torrevieja’s Playgrounds del Calvario, La Mata and La Coronelita.
The renovation of children's play areas begins this Monday, August 26, with a term of execution of 6 months. The project will include improvements in 78 children's play areas in the local parks together with the creation of new ones. For the first time, awnings are to be included in some of the playgrounds, in addition to all the floors being changed to personalised non-slip, nontoxic and ecological rubber. All areas will have some type of inclusive game for children with different abilities.
The Diputación de Alicante will spend 1.4 million euro on the purchase of lights and improvements to road safety in rural areas and agricultural roads in the province.
Orihuela Amongst towns with the Most Swimming Pools
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The Valencian Community has a total of 245,082 swimming pools, which means that the region has one swimming pool for every 21 people, putting the region higher than the national average, which stands at one for every 37 inhabitants, and Orihuela is amongst the leaders in the country. The Balearic Islands come out on top, with one swimming pool for every 17 registered people.
ELIS VILLAMARTÍN RAISES 13,000 EUROS FOR GOOD CAUSES
by Suena for
There was also Christmas Jumper Day and the chocolate party in support of Save The Child in Spain together with the ongoing collaboration with local food banks, through which clothing, toys, cleaning and hygiene products have been provided; or fundraising for the British Legion in its Orihuela Costa branch.
Amongst the towns to benefit in the Vega Baja are Algorfa, Benijófar, Daya Nueva, Daya Vieja, Formentera del Segura, Jacarilla, and San Isidro, who will receive aid amounting to 268,636 euro.
The people do not care who has the skills,or who puts up the money: what they want is to be able to drive around the areacalmly without it taking half an hour to travel 5 kilometres”
The Lonely Life of a Police Patrol Car Thanks to a 40,000 euro grant two years ago, Daya Vieja was able to purchase a new patrol car for the Local Police. The good news is that the vehicle is looking almost as new as when it was delivered. The bad news is it is because there are no police officers to drive it. The residents of Daya Vieja were being protected by two local officers, but one of them left on secondment and the other is on long-term sick .
This week the small Valencian town of Buñol, becomes awash with redness, as the Tomatina, the famous tomato fight, takes place. Traditionally, the fiesta take place on the last Wednesday of August, which means that this year it is on the last day of the month, 31 August, and this year is particularly special as it is the 75th anniversary, and 20 years since its declaration as a Festival of International Tourist Interest.
Alicante to Invest in better rural road safety
The funds have increased by 223% this year, and will help 81 municipalities with less than 5,000 inhabitants benefit from the aid. In 2021 the grant was 433,000 euro that was distributed among just over sixty towns. More than three times that amount will be allocated in 2022 which, in addition to the acquisition of solar LED lights, includes the installation of traffic mirrors, signage and beacon fences, speed reduction devices and video surveillance systems for traffic control.
81 municipalities with less than 5,000 inhabitants will benefit from the aid.
TOMATINA TIME!
The group are therefore asking for testimonies, photographs and videos of the situation be sent to them,for which they have provided both a WhatsApp number,682 320 454,and an yourevenvideosOfthecanaddress,autorestorrevieja@gmail.com,whereemailyousendyourreportsdenouncingthe"collapse"ofN-332.course,pleasedon’ttakephotographsorwhilstyouaredriving,asthisisillegal,ifyouarestoppedinthequeueoftraffic.Getpassengertodoitinstead.
The Sueña political group in Torrevieja has launched a campaign through social networks to try to increase the awareness of the urgent need to widen the N-332 main road as it passes through
N-332
JuneawardeddraftingedSamperforsituationdenunciationcantouristspaignintendTorrevieja.ForwhattonotforPabloTorrevieja.Samper,spokespersonSueña,saidthat«wearegoingtostopintheeffortfightforwhatisfairandisnecessaryforthisreasonwethatwiththiscam-membersofthepublic,andresidentsalike,takepartinthepublicofanunbearablethathasdraggedonmorethan10years.hadpreviouslypoint-outthat“weknowthattheoftheprojectwasfouryearsago,in2018,withatermof18months and should have been completed in December 2019.And we know that the environmental assessment report from the Ministry of Ecological Transition is also pending.But we also know this through the media,not from correspondence with any representative of the State administration,nor from the mayor of Torrevieja.
Students from El Limonar International School in Villamartín, have raised 13,000 euros this year for NGOs and other groups. Throughout the year, the students have taken part in multiple solidarity initiatives, which has been encouraged and supported through its board of directors, teachers and Cognita, the international group of schools to which the college belongs. These include ecological and environmental activities, such as the collection of more than 100 kilos of plastic waste, the donation to the Red Cross of an interactive whiteboard and computer equipment, the Poppy Appeal for the Orihuela Costa Branch of The Royal British Legion, as well as humanitarian aid to Ukraine, which has played a leading role in recent months
Call Evidence to Support Widening around Torrevieja
"We are very proud of the involvement and commitment that the students and their families, the teachers and staff of ELIS Villamartín, have shown throughout the yearas we all do our bit to achieve a more egalitarian society. This is something that we intend to continue encouraging with all the resources that are within our reach", said its director, Simon Roberts.
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With age comes wisdom, claimed Oscar Wilde, before adding that "for some, age comes alone." When I was young, wisdom was beyond my grasp, and well done, you, if you managed to get hold of some, or any.
The Spanish govt is planning to turn the energy-saving decree into an official bill. The energy measures were implemented a few weeks ago, amid controversy. The measure would allow amendments from other political parties to be incorporated into the final document that is presented to the Parliament. This would ensure that cross-party support is garnered for the bill.
BITES
Shady is a fun-loving 5 month old. Just needs to find his forever home. For more
Those more advanced in years probably possess more emotional stability than the young, and my eyes are welling up with grateful tears at that very idea. Aches and pains may increase, but cognitive decline can make us forget bad things more quickly, and isn't it said that ignorance is bliss? I have no wish in my declining years to 'become a mystery shopper' -- sounds a bit like a shoplifter -- or to 'fly to a randomly selected location with no itinerary' -- that's how I got jobs abroad -- and as for becoming a 'survivalist', can't I claim to be one already, at Oldies,75? in my opinion, are more to be envied than pitied. Those I feel sorry for are the modern gamers who develop a kind of living rigor mortis brought on by sitting for days on end crashing cars and shooting at fleeing I'mavatars.not too proud nowadays to accept, when people ask if I need help with high shelves or self-service machines in supermarkets. My main hope for the future is to grow even older and still have all, or most, of my marbles. If not, I can always buy new marbles -as long as someone gets them down from the top shelf for me.
Spain not planning to lift existing face mask rules anytime soon
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SASAT ANIMAL RESCUET ANIMAL RESCUE
According to geriatricians, who try to discover new things about old people, our early and middle years are just a preliminary training period for the pleasures of being an elderly adult -- what they refer to as "the happy senescence phenomenon."
The measure has been in place since April of this year and the Health authorities are not planning to relax this measure yet.
It seems to me that in certain instances "making the most of retirement" appears more like hard work -- hiking, travelling, quilting, volunteering to look after old people (!), learning to paint, bungee jumping or even worse. (Decluttering your attic.)
966contactinfo710047Leaveamessage.info@satanimalrescue.com
The first round of exhumation of mass graves from the Spanish Civil War began in Madrid on 23 Aug.
Spain begins exhumation of mass graves from Civil War in Madrid
Health Minister Carolina Darias confirmed this when she was asked about it on 23 Aug.
After 40 or more years of hoping to become the chairman of the company, the time finally comes to sit in a rocking chair and enjoy the company of friends rather than the musical chairs of office politics.
"Old age ain't no place for sissies," said Bette Davis, who lived till she was 81, and still had Bette Davis eyes.
Other suggested means of diverting yourself post-retirement often include learning to play a musical instrument. But what if you were previously first violinist with the London Symphony Orchestra? On the subject of hobbies, the comedian Jack Dee (60) claims that hobbyists' delusions depend on the nature of their hobby. Very few bird-watchers, he says, need validation from other people, as such an activity is its own reward. "All you need to become a twitcher is a pair of binoculars, warm outdoor clothing, and a hatred of human company."
The Spanish govt is not planning to lift the requirement to wear face masks on public transport, in chemists, hospitals, medical centres and care homes, anytime soon.
THE PLEASURES OF OLD AGE
The parish cemetery of Colmenar Viejo has started the process to bring to light the remains of 107 men and a woman who were shot in 1939 by dictator Francisco Franco's troops. This is the first initiative to bring to light the identity of Franco's victims. Spain govt wants to turn energysaving decree into bill
Councillor for Beaches, Ángel Piedecausa, thanked "the citizen who gave the notice, the Santa Pola Local Police and the lifeguard service, and of course, the Museo del Mar for all the work to recover the piece." From the Museo del Mar they confirm that Santa Pola currently has another 3 pieces of cannons that are being studied and that remain preserved in the same conditions in which they were found.
Regardless of the course, classes at all these levels begin on Monday 12 September 2022 and will continue until 21 June 2023, for ESO, Baccalaureate and Vocational Training, Infant and Primary Education students.
On Wednesday, archaeologists inspected the item, which they say, "could be a part of an ancient cannon." The Museo del Mar has informed the Generalitat, which from now on will mark ensure the correct protocols are followed, with the custody and maintenance of the piece being ensured to guaranteed it is maintained in the appropriate conditions for its conservaThetion.
Antique canon washes up on Santa Pola Beach
The canon was handed over to the Santa Pola Museo del Mar.
Local Police in Santa Pola were summoned to the beach at Play Lisa on Tuesday afternoon, when bathers discovered what looked like an extremely old canon had washed up on the Localbeach.resident, Marcos Mirete Castañeda, alerted the police to what appeared to be archaeological remains resting some 5 metres from the shore.
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Officers from Santa Pola Local Police, helped by lifeguards, recovered the item from the sea and brought it to beach, where it was placed under the care of a team from the Santa Pola Museo del Mar.
The Generalitat Valenciana has set out the school calendar for the 2022/2023 academic year for the different academic levels: Early Childhood Education, Primary Education, Compulsory Secondary Education (ESO), Baccalaureate and Vocational Training.
Different areas can adapt the calendar slightly, as councils of each municipality can also establish local holidays, but overall, there is a holiday period of 15 days for Christmas (from December 23, 2022, to January 6, 2023, both included) and another 12 days to enjoy Easter (from April 6 to 17 of 2023, also Thereinclusive).willmore holidays during the academic year on October 12 for the National Holiday of Spain, November 1 for the Feast of All Saints, on December 6 for Constitution Day, as well as December 8 for the Immaculate Conception, and on May 1 to celebrate International Workers' Day.
Getting ready for return to school
The fact that I have broken off my love affair with the Yanks, should make them nervous down in Clare. Only that his passport was (in fact, four of them) confiscated during the raid on Mar A Lago, Trump would be in Doonbeg by the end of the month and I would be history. To paraphrase a good Clare politician, Patrick Hillary, ‘you can have Donald Trump, but you can’t have Westmeath!’
Her second cousin is Seanie McMahon, whom many regard as the greatest hurling centre-back of all time. More McMahons were founders of the Kilfenora Ceili Band and another one founded the first Irish college on the Aran Islands. They are all amazing people with whom we have always remained in touch – going back as far as the ‘house Asdances.’those of you who are fans of YCBS will have guessed, after such a flowery intro, there is going to be a ‘BUT’ … and here is the ‘but!’ My relationship with one of my favourite counties is under severe strain. In fact, there is a stress fracture in the love affair which could result in the whole thing being broken off. It hangs by a thread and was only saved this month by the fact that a man in America couldn’t get his hands on his confiscated passport. This is serious – and I’ll let you know how serious, by telling you another story … I have a first cousin in California. He and his lovely wife have come and stayed with us in Ireland a few times - the last being about six years ago. During their stay here, plans were put in place that Mrs Youcantbeserious and I would go and stay with them in California and from there head off to spend a week in Hawaii, where they have a holiday home. Everything was ‘grand’ at this end and ‘awesome’ at the other. Details were arranged between the two women and it was all systems go - until a wheel came flying off the wagon.
It’s a long, long way from Clare to Mar ALago Ilove
Clare. No Lads, not a woman – the county! The Cliffs of Moher, Spancil Hill, Davy Fitzgerald … We have strong connections with ‘De Banner’ in our house, thanks to Mrs Youcantbeserious.
DON’T FORGET Politics is the only profession in which a person can make a living solely by bragging.
I don’t spend much money, it is true, but I am always very generous with advice – and here is more of it: Stick to your hurling, Lads, and to your dancing ‘Gorls’. Remember your decent Irish culture; Lisdoonvaragh, Maura O’Connell, Marty Morrissey, Edna O’Brien, Bunratty Castle, The Burren – and I almost forgot Michael Cusack. And there’s more …. Just last week the lovely and talented Doctor Ivanna McMahon from Barefield has been crowned Miss Ireland. A timely word of caution for the Clare cousins. When a dozen ship-wrecked sailors could have you all looking like Spaniards, just think of the harm Donald Trump could do with his reputation in that department!? “Lock her up ….!”
GARDEN FELIX Whats in a name? - Carpobrotus edulis
After knowing my cousin for more than half a century, I discovered something so bad about him that I can’t get over it. To put things in context, I come from such a long line of black sheep in my family that the only surprise is that there isn’t a flock called after us. But this one is the worst yet: My educated cousin and his professional wife (both recently retired) have helped to put Donald Trump in the Oval Office and continue to be members of that conspiracy cult. After giving the matter some serious mature reflection for all of four seconds, I informed them that I would never stand on US soil while he is president. The outcome meant no Hawaii …. followed by the last six years of dead silence between California and Casa Comaskey … Clare had better watch out – because I used to love America too: The best of good food, orderly queues, ‘having a nice day’ and ‘just loving your accent!’
Early a little …!
PAGE 10 Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022www.theleader.info ADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.info
Mind you, Clare has a bit of form when it comes to adopting a politician who can turn white into black, and then back to white again -when he looked into his own heart: and we are not talking here about Doctor Bhamjee! Donald Trump doesn’t even bother to cross his fingers behind his back when he is Iflying!Clare opts to hold onto me instead of truckin’ with Trump, just think what a saving this will be for the state in security costs – and all it takes to mind me is a couple of McMahons.
The plants favour the warmer climates, especially on the Costa Blanca South thriving during droughts,and on salty sandy soils,and used for stabilising dunes and slopes along the coastline. They reproduce aggresively through runners or stolons,like grass,by forming roots on the stem nodes and can quickly cover the ground which can be Theirinvasive.flowers are very attractive to insects,which perform pollination,so they also successfully reproduce by Theseeds.ripe fruit are eaten by seagulls and small mammals,such as rabbits,which help scatter seeds through their droppings.
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 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. Carpobrotus edulis - common names of hottentot-fig,sour fig,ice plant,lions claw or highway ice plant - is a perennial ground creeping plant with thick succulent leaves like cactus. The stem can grow up to 2m long with light green waxy textured triangular leaves sometimes being purple at the end. Their fabulous flowers are similar to daisies in shape,which grow between 6-9cm in diameter with plenty petals in purple,yellow or orange, that blossom from May and June.
It is difficult to blame the business people of Doonbeg for trying to make a few bob, but if you sup with the devil, you may lose your soul. Trump turns all those who join his circle into liars, and Clare people are not liars …. Well, maybe Biddy
Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022 PAGE 11www.theleader.infoADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.info
Joan, who celebrates her birthday on September 6, said: "I feel privileged to have been born in 1930. I'm really looking forward to doing filming with Nivea, in either September or December. Exciting times."
Photo: courtesy Joan Richmond-Woodhouse.
Joan, who revealed that she keeps slim and retains her youthfulness with Nivea - and eating PIES since her schooldayssaid: "All the attention started as a joke with my friend filming me talking about the pies.
"Unknown to me it was put on TikTok and it went viral! It received millions of hits. "I do like pies, and Holland's pies were very much a favourite when I lived in Lancashire."
Joan, who has 18 grandchildren, said: "My mother Francis Mary Eccleston (née Doyle) used to make homemade mince and onion pies.
MOTHER'S PIES
Joan, whose father was a police inspector and detective during World War 2, said: "I've managed to keep slim by also eating Lancashire Hot Pot down the years."
"I can still see those pies today, cut into long slices. Delightful. I ate lots, when young. "Also I recall the school diners served meat pies - and my grandma also baked home made pies!".
"To have the offer of a job for Nivea now is so nice, but crazy at the same time," she said. "I’ve always looked years younger than I am. To become a Nivea influencer is nice, aged 91," said Joan, who formerly owned a Hotel in the Lake District with her late husband, retired solicitor Trevor Woodhouse.
Murcia great-grandmother Joan, 91, set to star in Nivea filming By Andrew Atkinson, EXCLUSIVE HEY GOOD LOOKIN’ - WHAT YOU GOT COOKING?
Nivea have offered great-grandmother Joan RichmondWoodhouse, 91, a contract to undergo filming after revealing that she has used their cream which has kept her so young "Nivealooking.are sending me to do some film shoots - it's so exciting," Joan exclusively told me from her home in Costa Calida, "IMurcia.have used a Nivea cream since being a teenager, aged 16, and moisturise my whole body once a week," said Joan, from Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, who emigrated to Spain two decades ago.
*The Leader Exclusive with Joan Richmond-Woodhouse continues next week, in P2 of a three-part interview, with a chat about Paella, Benidorm, the drinking culture in Spain and playing golf.
1982 - Survivor were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with the theme from the film Rocky III 'Eye Of The Tiger', their only chart topper. Survivor won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance for the song.
Don’t let Grinch steal your Christmas - do it now!
Ladies’ Harmony Chorus starts rehearsals in Los Alcázares, Murcia on 1 September after a well-deserved summer break. It’s hard to believe, but it's time to dust off their Christmas songs in readiness for many engagements during November and IfDecember.you’vetoyed with the idea of joining a chorus, Spangles is offering you an ideal opportunity to ease gently into the art of singing fourpart harmony, a cappella style – which means without an instrumental backing -. during the festive season. No need to panic if you don’t read music, Spangles provides teaching tracks to make life really easy for you and they will be with you every step of the way during this fun time. If you fancy giving it a go, just send an email to info@spangleschorus.com or call 693 017 617 for full details.
1969 - The film 'Easy Rider' starring Jack Nicholson Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper opened at The Classic in London.The movie's soundtrack featured The Band, TheJimi Hendrix Experience and Steppenwolf.
Spangles rehearse every Thursday, from 10.30 am to 1.00 pm at Centro Municipal Las Claras, Calle Helena, Los Narejos, Los Alcázares. Visitors are always welcome if you want to see what it’s all about. If you are thinking about joining, or maybe you’d like to book the chorus for an event, you can find the full story on the Spangles website: www.spangleschorus.com or email info@spangleschorus.com
PAGE 12 Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022www.theleader.info ADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.info
1965 – Rock band The Whohad their van stolen containing over £5000 worth of equipment outside the Battersea Dogs Home.They were inside the home at the time buying a guard dog.The van was later recovered.In the same year, aRolling Stone’sgig in Dublin ended in a riot after 30 fans jumped onto the stage.Lead Vocalist Mick Jagger was knocked to the floor as the rest of the band fled the stage.
2005 - 77 year old Fats Domino was rescued from the flooding in New Orleans caused by Hurricane Katrina.He had earlier told his agent that he planned to remain in his home despite the order to evacuate.
Spangles
2009 - Friends and family ofMichael Jacksonpaid their last respects to the singer at a funeral held at Glendale's Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Los Angeles.Dame Elizabeth Taylor, Quincy Jones, Macaulay Culkin,Berry Gordyand Lisa Marie Presley were among the 200 invited guests.
Spangles Ladies’ already `planning their Festive Fun 77 year old Fats Domino was rescued from the flooding in New Orleans
1977 - The month after his death,Elvis Presleyhad 27 albums and 9 singles in the Top 100 charts in the UK.'Moody Blue' was the No.1 album while 'Way Down' was No.1 on the singles chart.At the same time three people were arrested in Memphis after trying to steal Elvis' body.As a result, his remains would be later moved to Graceland.
2016 - A Blue Plaque marking the first homeFreddie Mercurylived in when he arrived in England was unveiled.
The singer's family arrived in a motorcade of 31 vehicles, Michael's brothers - Randy, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine and Marlon - acted as pallbearers carrying his gold-plated coffin.
2006 - .The Times newspaper ran a story on the demands of rock stars when on tour. According to the paper Ozzy Osbourne insists on an eye, ear, nose and throat doctor at each venue,The Beach Boys require a licensed masseur, Paul McCartneymust have a large arrangement of white Casablanca lilies in his dressing room, Mick Jaggermust have an onstage autocue with the lyrics to all the songs, it would also tell him the name of the city in which they were performing.David Bowie used torequest that the dressing room temperature is between 14c and 18c and Meat Loaf used to ask fora mask and one small tank of oxygen in his room.
1976 - George Harrisonwas found guilty of 'subconscious plagiarism' of the Ronnie Mack song 'He's So Fine' when writing 'My Sweet Lord'. Earnings from the song were awarded to Ronnie Mack's estate;The Chiffons then recorded their own version of 'My Sweet Lord'.
1999 - Lou Bega went to No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Mambo No 5', originally recorded and composed by Perez Prado in 1949.
TheQueenfront man moved to the semi-detached home in Feltham, west London, after his family left Zanzibar in 1964 when he was 17.
Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022 PAGE 13www.theleader.infoADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.info
8. The majority of the biological and chemical weapons from WWI and WWII were dumped in which sea? 9. Fish and chips, Hamburger and fries. What do the citizens of Brussels love to eat with their frites?
6. The victory goddess Victoria and her horse drawn chari
7. In 1969, France, Holland, Spain and the UK all tied for first place in which contest?
PAGE 14 Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022www.theleader.info ADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.info CRYPTIC CROSSWORD ANSWERSWeek932 ACROSSACROSS 6.Clot 7.Automaton(7) (5) 9.Freeze (3) 10.Sheer drop (9) 12.Difference 22.Reawakening21.Fashion19.Cunning17.Supreme15.Approaching(11)(11)(9)(3)(5)(7) DOWNDOWN 1.Bus 4.Grievance3.Just2.Ovum(5)(3)(4) 20.Toupee18.Require16.Dreary14.Fidelity13.Insect11.In8.Yell5.Compound(9)(7)(6)effect(9)case(6)(7)(5)(4)(3) ACROSSACROSS 6.Accumulated wealth in chief city (7) 7 and 9Ac. Apparently one can be too old for the nobility (8) 9.See 7 10.ConcerningAc. janitors seeing the press (9) 12.Sly when short of workers? (11) 15.Rare keys on inquisitive person (5,6) 17.Action for evening? (3,3,3) 19.Point back to 500 (3) 21.Mount and prosper (3,2) 22.Again poetry can result in a setback (7) DOWNDOWN 1.Dance not appreciated by sun-bathers? (5) 2 and 3Dn. Wet rain dispersed by metal goods (7) 3.See 4.Exclude2Dn.affectionate person serving drinks? (9) 5.One jury travel (7) 8.Bighead has different trouble (6) 11.Less than 12 inches being trodden on (9) 13.Formerly saucy specialist (6) 14.Have a discussion about one tree (7) 16.Lift one amid the throng (5) 18.Declare some grave results (4) 20.Colour up in 11 (3) LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ (Answers on page 20) QUICKIE CROSSWORD ACROSS:QUICKQUICKACROSS: 7 Make the most of; 8 Coquette; 9 Item; 10 Random; 12 In gaol; 14 Barren; 16 Excite; 18 Fall; 20 Unstable; Dissoluteness.22 DOWN:DOWN: 1 Panorama; 2 Refund; 3 Shut; 4 Imbecile; 5 Asking; 6 Robe; 11 Manfully; 13 Outclass; 15 Relish; 17 Chains; 19 Avid; 21 Site. ACROSS:CRCRYPTICYPTICACROSS: 7 Snookerplayer; 8 Released; 9 Tots; 10 Scraps; 12 Medusa; 14 Stroll; 16 Chorus; 18 Gait; 20 Sunbaked; 22 Again and Down:again. 1 Undercut; 2 Modena; 3 Less; 4 Epidemic; 5 Halted; 6 Meat; 11 Salesman; 13 Souvenir; 15 Outfit; 17 Orange; 19 Alga; 21 Nods. Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9. Solution on Page 20 CAN CHALLENGE?MASTERYOUTHESUDOKU
10. Which word can one associate with each of the following? train, Chartres, film and tooth?
11. On the outskirts of which modern city would you find the ruins of ancient Carthage?
12. Who won the Eurovision Song Contest with "Making your mind up"?
13. The Watusi or Batutsi tribe comes from within Rwanda and Burundi in Central Africa. What is this tribe remarkable 14.for?In which book or film would you find the 'go west' Joad 15.family?According to Guinness the most expensive bottle of wine ever sold at an auction was a 1787 Chateau what? (one word) 16. Which derogatory name was given to greedy US bankers in the depression years? 9 letters 17. Which country unilaterally declared independence in November 1965? 18. Which holey man was the patron saint of English 19.archers?Infilm, the submarine Proteus explored which body of 20.water?The Man... The Music... The Madness... The Murder... The Motion Picture - which 1984 Oscar winning film about a composer?
3. What was unusual about the Tyrell P34?
ot which adorns the Brandenburger Gate in Berlin was kept in which city between 1806 and 1814?
4. In which films were the following Germans bad guys? a. Hans Gruber, b. Karl Stromberg, c. Dr Szell. d. Amon Goeth
5. Angel Falls, the worlds highest waterfall is how many times higher than the Niagara Falls?
1. Going Dutch. a. Who wrote the song "You can't Hurry Love"? b. What term is a slang term for Nonsense or incomprehensible talk? c. On which London underground line is Holland Park tube station? d. By what other name are the Pennsylvania Dutch people in America called? e. In the film "Mr. Holland's Opus" who plays Glenn Holland? 2. We give you one line of a song. This week all songs are from the year 1977. You must identify the artist and the title of the song for one point each. In the event of several cover versions being known, we're after the version released in 1977. a: Love soft as an easy chair. b: You can dance, you can jive having the time of your life. c: You've got a cute way of talking. d: On a dark desert highway cool wind in my hair. e: I just close my eyes and I'm with you
"But these studies add an entirely new dimension to that old saying.Not only is food converted to our body parts,but as shown by our work with dietary grapes,it actually changes our genetic expression. That is truly remarkable.
Previous research has found an association between NAFLD and increased dementia risks. Scientists said the benefits would correspond to an additional four to five years of life in humans.
Tickets for English band Coldplay's concerts in Barcelona sold out withing hours of going on sale last Wednesday.
Tickets for Coldplay's concert in Barcelona in 2023 sold out
"A round of applause for the vintage of my people, what good wine there is in La Mata. "Before when I was young they stepped on it with their feet,and pure wine came out of that broth, now with modern machines I don't know anymore," said Fina Sanchez Perellò,from Càceres. Maria Jose Quesada from Alicante said: "How good is the La Mata grape.And the Muscatel,come on, sweeter than honey." Grapes could stave off dementia and extend your lifespans,a new study has reported.
"But if you change the level of antioxidant gene expression,as we observed with grapes added to the diet,the result is a catalytic response that can make a real difference," he said.
LA MALA MA TT A -AJUSTJUST ‘GRAPE’!‘GRAPE’!
Studio 32 will be bringing you a celebration of award winning musicals in their latest production, ‘A Night on Broadway’. Over the past 13 years Studio 32 have produced many award winning musicals, including Chicago, Anything Goes, White Xmas, Guys and Dolls and many more. We have assembled a great cast to bring you an extravaganza of musical numbers and Youdance.wont be disappointed so book your tickets now using our online booking service outlined below. After a short summer break we will be recommencing rehearsals at Lakeview Bar and Restaurant Quesada on Thursday 1st September from 7:15pm. We are always looking for people to join our group (especially men) who can, or have aspirations to sing, dance and act, or who have experience working in the theatre backstage, in lighting, sound etc and in particular who have experience working with costumes.
Spain's congress has passed legislation referred to as the "only yes means yes Thelaw".legislation passed with 205 votes in favour, 141 against and 3 abstenMPstions.from the conservative People's party and the far-right Vox voted against the new legislation.
"Since I was a child I have always seen this vintage and look how the years go by.
Spain passes 'only yes means yes' sexual consent law
STUDIO32 - Seeking new members Fina Sanchez Perellò: Recalls squashing the grapes with her feet. Harvest of grapes in La Mata, one of earliest in Europe. Photos: Joaquín and Rubén. STUDIO32
Quote: 'A round of applause for the vintage of my people,what good wine there is in La Mata' The harvest of grapes in La Mata,one of the earliest in all of Europe,began in mid-August,has brought back memories of yesteryear. This year,grape production has been reduced, among other crops,by the persistence of the easterly wind,the rains and the strong heat.
By Andrew Atkinson
A NIGHT ON BROADWAY WITH
John M.Pezzuto,who has authored over 600 scientific studies,called the findings 'truly remarkable': "We have all heard the saying 'you are what you eat' which is obviously true since we all start out as a fetus and end up being an adult by eating food.
As of 14 Aug, Spain has reported 50 large forest fires this year. This refers to fires that have destroyed over 500 hectares of land. This is according to data published by the Ministry for Ecological Transition. The data also revealed that till mid August, 229,257 hectares of land had been destroyed by forest fires. Three films shortlisted for the 2023 Oscars Alcarras, Cinco lobitos and As bestas are the three films that have been shortlisted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to represent Spain at the 2023 Oscars ceremony underthe category of best international film. On 13 Sep, the final film candidate will be presented to the Hollywood Academy forthe 95th edition of the Oscars.
Spain has reported 50 large forest fires so far this year
If you are that person and would like further information on our theatre company or you would like to book tickets for our show please visit www.studiothirtytwo.org to book tickets online, call 679 062 272 or email tickets@studiothirtytwo.org
Under the new law, consent must be affirmative and cannot be assumed to have been given by default or silence.
"I never get tired of seeing it,thanks for the beautiful and special photos," said Conchi Macia Molero, from "BeautifulTorrevieja.photos,good grapes from La Mata,the table grape and the wine from La Mata," said Torrevieja based Maria Del Carmen Pérez Salas. "They will taste great in a bottle of wine," said Carol Haydon.
Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022 PAGE 15www.theleader.infoADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.info
Researchers have commented on the 'astonishing' effects of the common fruit on health and life Addingexpectancy.grapes to a high-fat diet reduced the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and increased levels of antioxidant genes,reported the study recently published in the journal Food.
The band recently has announced that they will be playing at Barcelona's Olympic Stadium on 24 an 25 May 2023. This is their first concert in Spain in seven years when they played in the Catalan capital. The concert will be a part of the Music Of The Spheres World Tour 2023.
Huge increase in demand for second-hand school textbooks
The 024 telephone line,Spain's 24-hour suicide prevention hotline,has helped avoid 585 suicide attempts since it was introduced in May this year. In the last few months,the hotline has received about 34,000 calls from people who were suicidal or their loved ones. The hotline was set up by the Health Ministry on 10 May.
e-scooter fire warning dangers
"After one hour there was a short circuit and the battery did not have effective protective measures, and the scooter software failed to stop the charge on "Please,time. never buy vehicles that are not road-legal.
Awarning has been published by N332 on it’s Facebook page, surrounding the dangers of purchasing e-scooters from the Internet that do not meet EU require"Wements.buy many of our products on the internet, but we must take into account that when we buy them they must meet the requirements established by the EU for vehicles.
The letters ‘CE’ appear on many products traded on the extended Single Market in the European Economic Area (EEA). They signify that products sold in the EEA have been assessed to meet high safety, health, and environmental protection Inrequirements.thesummer of 2020, outgoing UK PM Boris Johnson announced a plan to build thousands of miles of Dutch-style bike lanes in UK as a haven from motor traffic. Now questions are being raised about who should be using them, as a new wave of more than a million e-scooters and micro-cars, known as light quadricycles, prepare to join ordinary cyclists, fast e-bikes and delivery riders with cargo in the already crowded Duncanlanes.Dollimore, the head of campaigns at Cycling UK, a membership charity of 70,000, said that problems were starting to emerge in larger cities and were likely to spread in future. He said he was most concerned about the speed and acceleration of the new vehicles.
PAGE 16 Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022www.theleader.info ADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.info Just nine No chance to prosper and to grow Just Olivianinecaught in something No child should even know A victim pure and innocent Shot down without a thought A gunman still alive and free Who now has to be caught Her family in turmoil now Unable to believe How their little girl has lost her life How forever they will grieve It seems that life is meaningless To those without a heart Who treat life as an arcade game Where weapons play their part Just nine A child shot randomly And who paid with her young life Just nine An act of violence In a world where murders’ rife Olivia God Bless you Spread your Angel wings and fly Live a better life in Heaven As we're left to wonder Why? P O E T R Y C O R N E R "JUST NINE""JUST NINE" by David Whitney -by Whitney - c2022 (A poem inspired by the tragic murder of Olivia Pratt-Korbel) If you would like to see your poem on this page send to: office@theleader.info
Remember: the cheaper option turns out more expensive!," said a statement.
"When you buy one of these products from websites outside of the EU, check that the products are CE approved. Vehicles obtain this certification after passing several tests and one of them is the battery test.
"In this photo you can see how this electric scooter is on fire, which ignited when the owner tried to charge it.
As parents across the country begin the preparations to send their children back to school, the demand for second-hand schoolbooks has increased by 67% between June and August, with their price growing by 8% compared to last year, standing at 24 euro on average, according to a report published by the company Milanuncios, who run one of the most popular used goods marketplace websites in the country. Another product is school uniforms: their demand rising 223% compared to last year, "possibly as an effect of inflation and due to the increase in society's awareness of the circular economy," adds the note. During the summer the demand for tablets has also increased by 16% over the same period last year; laptops (10%) and desktop computers (9%).
Spain's 24-hour suicide hotline prevented 585 attempts since May When buying from productsoutsidewebsitestheEU,checkthattheareCEapproved.
are always welcome. You do not have to be ex-services. For info please AgecommunityTorrevieja.secretary@rbl.contact:-ConcernCostaBlancaSurisheretohelpyouwithprob-lemsolvingandwellbeingfortheover50ís.Weneedvolun-teerDriversandpeopletojoinourHomeVisitingTeam.tovisitpeopleinaResidentialHome,andtakethemoutforacoffee.IfyouthinkyoucanhelpcallintoourcentreatC/Paganinis/n,Urb.LaSiesta03184Torreviejaorring966786887.Oremail:costablanca@ageconcern.org.es
OverThe966ViceTonytionTorrevieja.urbanisation,Formoreinforma-pleasecontactChairmanJenkinson693866709,ChairmanDannyKayon716274orMargaretForshawon966921966.RAFACostaBlancaRMGreplacestheRAFACostaBlancaBranch1359whichisnowclosed.TheRMGisasocialgroupofcaringpeopleandremainsaffiliatedtotheparentAssociation.ContactwiththeRAFAandtheRMGisviatheRAFAwebsiterafa.org.uk.Tel:00448000182361.50-OnyourownintheTorreviejaarea.CheckoutPhoenixSoloswhomeeteveryMondaymorningfrom11amto1pmatReflectionsBar/Restaurant,C/Aviles,SanLuisLakeside.CallLynetteon643098173orseewebsiteat;phoenixsolos.wix.com LLUUNNAA 30 EX MODEL. Brasilian. Slim. Beautiful body. Elegant. Very private in La Zenia. Casa 77 (close to Consum). Tel. 604 111 457 SHARE THE COST OF BUYING AN APARTMENT I am looking for someone to share the cost of buying a 2 bed apartment in Los Alcazares. Total cost is 100k so 50k each. Please contact Fintan on +353 86 878 1317 HHEELLEENN...... LATINA WITH SKIN OF CINNAMON. Fantasies. Private. La Zenia. Casa 77 (Close to Consum). German spoken. Tel. 665 736 488 NN AA DD II AA .. .. .. SO SWEET MONDALVIAN (31) Turquesa St. La Zenia. Tel. 643 276 205 Diana from Greece. 47 year old lady. Blonde hair, blue eyes. Beautiful, sweet, natural body. Private apartment. Calle Gil Vallejo 5, Torrevieja. Call 663 817 943 Rocio, 40, Argentinian, sweet, qualified massausse. Big, natural breasts. House 75. La Zenia. 672 872 050. Mery... 35 sweet Polish girl. Beautiful body. Complete attention. Maximum privacy in Campoamor. Fantasies. Tel. 672 539 TORREVIEJAMIRIAM332Brazilianladyblond59 year. Do massage erotic with happy end. Speak good english. Call 604 382 799 Torrevieja, Valentini, Brazilian lady, 35. Erotic massage with complete satisfaction. Good time guaranteed. 688 340 708 Norma... Russian lady, mature, big breasts. Torrevieja. Tel. 665 056 834
Bring
12, PolÌgono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. We look forward to meeting TheInternationalFacebookwww.Saltchurchspain.you.SaltChurchSpainChristianAssembly,CalleUrbanoArregui,23,Torrevieja-Evangelicalnon-denomina-tionalchurch.Sundayservice11a.m.;Sundayschool;Prayermeetings;craftandcomputerclubs.LadiesBibleStudy:Thursday11a.m.ChurchBibleStudy:Thursday1.30p.m.HousegroupsinTorrevieja,LaSiestañContact:966752543/617215463.Phone:966799273/966752543/617215463.www.icatorrevieja.orgCaroftheMonthatAutomovilesCrespoisa2020FordFocusST3petrolwhichisonSpecialOfferpricedatjust37,900euro.Comealong to our showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. The biggest and best for price, choice and quality. ENGLISH TheComeBuilder,SPOKENremodelling,kitchens,extensions,webeatmostquotes.CallAndy697834934.JoinTheBand'TheRoyalBritishLegionConcertBandSpainislookingforasecondviolinplayerofanynationalitytojoinourgrowinggroupofmusicians.PleasecontactGrahamRobinsonatemailbyphoneon658663846orbyemailat:robinsongraham256@googlemail.comJuneMeetingoftheRoyalBritishLegionOrihuelaCostaandDistrictBranchwillbeheldat7for7.30pmon Thursday
along. Everyone is welcome incl non members.
We are
The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome. Phone or whatsapp the missionaries on 659 016 733 La Siesta Evangelical Church, Torrevieja, a friendly, Englishspeaking church. hold services at 11.15am on the 2nd and 4th Sundays each month (and the 5th when there is Sundays at 10.30 am. a friendly church, Daya Nueva 21 July at the Olympia Pool Bar in Mil Palmeras. SILENTAUCTION. something Call Jean on: 630 28 08 99. The RBLTorrevieja BranchMeets at the Oasis, formerly the Casa Ventura, San Luis on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6.30 pm for 7pm start. New members
We
Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch now meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 1700 (5pm) at CHE LOCO bar/restaurant, El Chaparral
PAGE 17ADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.info Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022 www.theleader.info
one). For more info see our website Joinwww.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.orgat:usattheSALTCHURCH
bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship. Meets at Calle
‘Good morning, ladies and gentlemen: my name is Keith Hughes and I am your captain for this Ryanair flight. At the moment we are delayed for two hours by French Air Control, and hope to get our take-off spot then, so I’ll keep you advised in two hours time’.
In panicky preparation for my forthcoming exam I was carrying a last-minute revision kit, which I was poring over in my now sweaty seat. The kit included a photo concealed inside: I’d accidently come across it recently. It was of my lovely Mum, taken when well into her seventies. She was beaming out of the window of her battered old Mini one morning, just before she set off to voluntary work at Oxfam. This she did four mornings a week, confusing and irritating other drivers en route. She never had an accident, bless her, but boy, she caused a few (sorry Mum).
The Power Of Prayer (or Mum’ll Fix It).
Charming - but what can you say? Strangely enough all those around me found plenty to say, as we individually compared notes as to how important our own personal journeys were. I told the lady in the next seat I was flying to the UK to take my final Open University exam the following morning. She trumped that because her sick Dad in Cornwall was ‘on the way’ – to heaven, presumably. But then she had to be back in Spain shortly, as it had been sold: 15/30 to her…
Victims unhappy with euthanasia of gunman Spanish prison authorities recently euthanised a man who was awaiting trial for shooting four people in TheDecember.manhad been wounded in the encounter with the police which left him paralysed; he had begged to be allowed to die. However, victims are not happy with the ruling and had urged the courts to not grant the gunman's wish.
‘I am sorry, senor, your bag ees too beeg. Eet well have to go in the ‘Wotyotalkinabahthold’.–that’s the same bleedin’ bag I came wiv – ah canitbetoobig?’.
Spanish NGO asks EU to ban sale of tobacco to people born after 2009
Now, when all else fails in such situations I am admitting something very personal – I resort to prayer. I have to say, he up-there has done some sterling work on such projects in the past, but in addition I remembered something strange familywise recently. My niece, a lovely but somewhat organisationally-challenged young lady had recently flown to the States with her boyfriend - without visas. On reaching America there was a stand-off at the airport, and some urgent faxes and texts were whizzed Nutty-nieceoff. nipped off to the loo, and earnestly prayed to my late Mum, her beloved Nana to help her. Well, it worked. When she returned from the ladies her boyfriend said all the necessary paperwork had just come through. Hmm…
PAGE 18 Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022www.theleader.info ADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.info
The Spanish govt announced that it will send more military aid to Ukraine to support the country in its fight against the Russian invasion. The Defense Ministry said that the new package will consist of airdefence missiles, armoured vehicles, ammunition, military advisers, fuel, and "Ukrainewinterclothes.istodaythe heart of Europe," tweeted Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez.
A Spanish NGO has urged the European Commission to legislate in order to "save new generations from falling into tobacco addiction, to act against related environmental dangers and against smoking".
Spain to send more aid to Ukraine
‘Oi don’t loike to worry you folks but it says ‘ere that eightysix Ryanair flights ‘ave ‘ad to be cancelled today and… ooh look, it mentions Alicante’s affected.’ The rest of us didn’t want to hear that last bit, and a new burst of nervous chatter swept round our seats.
The NGO wants to ban the sale of tobacco and nicotine products to citizens born after 2009. They also want to put a ban on tobacco advertising.
P.S The exam? Yeah, passed it thanks, got my degree at lastBA to you (no suggestions for what that stands for). Well, you don’t want rush these things, do you?
Just then an unwelcome development occurred with a young West Country lad travelling in the seat in front. Apart from a loud fear of flying he owned a large tablet PC, and was busily loudly imparting unwelcome travel information from it.
Prayer is not a spectator-sport, is it, so my fervent words went silently something like this: ‘Please Mum, I hope it’s good where you are and you’re happily with Dad. It’s just I could use a bit of help down here…’. After finishing my exhortations I continued to revise hard. Just as we were all re-checking our watches for the four-hundredth time, cool calm character Keith soothed into: ’Well, ladies and gentlemen, we should be starting our engines in about five minutes. On behalf of Ryanair I’m sorry for the delay, although it wasn’t our fault…’. Agreed Keith, anyway I didn’t care – we were off – so it had all worked!
My newly-bearded son was dutifully waiting, and soon in Swindon we were picking up his lively four-year-old gingernut son Cole from play school and later greeted my granddaughter Emmie from school. She very generously let me sleep in her bedroom, which was very pink and Cinderella –like, while she had to endure sharing with her little brother. The next morning I was ferried safely to and from the exam near Reading by Matt. I always knew he’d come in handy one day. The next day, Saturday, he and his wife had organised a family party for me at their house, and my siblings, their partners and my other nephews and nieces all came, which was wonderful as I hadn’t seen some for a while. After yet another fun-filled family day on Sunday evening Matt dropped me back at Bristol airport, and we sadly said goodbye. I’m so proud of him and how he’s turned out, despite having a father like me. All we Ryanair fans and moaners alike boarded our Alicante flight early (hooray), took off early, and arrived a full thirty minutes ahead of schedule. I was soon tucked up in bed with my lovely wife, regaling her with all the eventful happenings. What an unbelievable four days it turned out to be. So don’t let me hear you slagging off Ryanair to me – just do as they ask and you’ll be fine, trust me. Oh, and all thanks to Mum of course, who I firmly believe put in a word to sort it all out for me.
Welcome back to Ryanair, I thought to myself as I snootily passed the objecting oik with my correctly-sixed little ruckIsack.found my way aboard the early flight to Bristol, quickly nabbing a perfect conversationally-challenged window seat. Eh? What French Air Traffic Control strike? I sent two texts, one to my abandoned wife (just for a few days), and the other to my son who was hopefully meeting me the other end. Soon all we strangers were settled on board – and then a calm, smooth voice came over the intercom.
Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022 PAGE 19www.theleader.infoADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.info
"We always do our best to support customers and this passport guidance is available on the TUI website during the booking process.It’s the customer’s responsibility to ensure that their travel documents are valid for the destinations they are travelling to,as clearly stated in the booking process.
"We must always follow the FCDO’s passport validity guidance,which clearly state passengers’ passports must not be more than 10 years old on the date they enter their "Unfortunatelydestination.Ms Quinn's passport did not meet this requirement and we therefore could not allow her to board the flight.
Shirelle Quinn and son Freddy, eventually arrived at Alicante-Elche airport.
Within hours,she was issued a passport and had rebooked flights with Ryanair that cost another £457 for flights and £177 for a new passport.Shirelle said: "The passport office couldn't have been more helpful,they did it for me there and then.
"It wasn't the staff's fault,it was my own. They couldn't let me fly,because I might have been refused entry when I arrived in Spain," she However,Shirellesaid jumped into her car and headed for the passport office in Durham, in a bid to get to Spain.
Shirelle's error means that she has not been entitled to any money back from TUI, who she originally booked the package
READY READY FREDDY FREDDY GO! GO! MUM AND SON ARRIVE IN SPAIN AFTER EXPENSIVE PASSPORT OVERSIGHT
BY ANDREW ATKINSON
A mum and her young son had to miss their flight to Alicante-Elche airport after a mix-up with her passport which was first issued more than a decade ago. Shirelle Quinn and her son Freddy,from South Tyneside,were due to fly to Alicante in Spain from Newcastle Airport on August When13. they arrived at the airport check-in staff at TUI informed them that they wouldn't be able to fly - due to a travel rule that has come in as a result of Brexit. Spain is one of the 26 countries which make up the Schengen Area of free movement,requiring passports to be issued within the previous 10 years on the date of arrival into the EU. It must also be valid for at least three months from the return date of travel from the EU,which came to force when the UK left the bloc and became a third country on January 1,2020. Shirelle's passport was issued on August 9, 2012,that saw her being turned away as TUI staff could not guarantee she would be permitted entry into Spain. Shirelle had used a third-party online passport checker,which said that her passport was valid for travel,but it turned out this was not the case.
This rule meant that the holiday she had paid £2,000 for had been lost: "I was just gutted for my little boy.He was in tears, but I was quite calm.
Six arrested for extorting owners of tourist homes
The Guardia Civil has arrested members of a criminal group that defrauded property owners of short-term rentals in TheVillajoyosa,Alicante.grouplocatedshort-term vacationtype rental homes and contacted the owners posing as a family interested in spending a weekend or several days. Once they occupied the house,they refused to leave or pay for the use of the house.Then they threatened the owners in exchange for very andthetheofInage.ferwouldandwouldthem,theythattelling14,000amountshigh-euro-,themiftheypaidleavetheirhomenotsuf-majordam-thepresencetheowners,membersofgangbeatsmashedthe furniture,however, even having agreed to the extortion,the perpetrators did not leave. The band has managed to appropriate 62,000 euro from the victims. They have been charged with crimes Villajoyosa.andagefraud,misappropriation,extortion,dam-ofandbelongingtoacriminalgrouparenowawaitingtrialin Divorces increase by 12.5% in 2021 as compared to previous year There were 12.5% more divorces in Spain in 2021 when compared to the previous year of 2020,according to data from the National Statistics Institute However,if(INE). the number of divorces, separations and annulments are compared to those in 2019,the rate has fallen,which could suggest that fewer couples are getting married. Nevertheless the average span of a marriage prior to divorce in Spain is 17 years while in the USA,where the divorce rate is 50%,the length is just 8 years.
"I'vethrough.paid everything out of my own pocket and TUI rang me to say I need to find my own way to the hotel.So TUI haven't been very helpful at all,but the passport office have been spot on," said Shirelle. The mum and son Freddy eventually arrived in Spain and are now enjoying their holiday.
A statement from TUI read: "We understand Ms Quinn’s disappointment in being unable to travel on her holiday as planned.
"I'm delighted,while I was waiting I went up to the centre of Durham and bought the lady in the passport office a big bouquet of flowers,she was absolutely lovely.I did a little skip out of the passport office and they were all looking at me!".
"As Ms Quinn has booked a new flight with another airline,we advise her to reach out to her travel insurance provider to see if they are able to support with compensation or refunds for any services lost."
Walsh 36.Cat II,Larry Quinn 39,Sheila Coyne 38 and Steve Formby 36.Golf prizes Cat I,Colin Fleming 40,Camillus Fitzpatrick 39 and John O’Brien 38.Cat II, Pat Coyne 43,Joe Adam 40 and Alisdair McLean 37. Results of the day,our visitors prize went to Bryan Carruthers 34,lowest handicap. The NTP’s.Gordon Montgomery,Stuart Tosh 2,Raj Waran,Alisdair McLean and Nick Brooks.Cat.III Steve Formby 39, Yvette McGeehan 37 and Paul Raffell 36.. Cat II Terry Lambert 40,Ian McCormack 39 and David Cosson 38.Cat I,Tony Burns 37,Camillus Fitzpatrick 37 and Alan Campbell 34.The gross was won by Mark Palmer 34.Second overall with 41 Debbie Boelhouwer and the winnerwith a fantastic 43 points including a blob,Dave Stockton. Well done to all the winners and congratulations to so many who remained behind to honour those who won a prize.
course and
Replacement of arid areas with areas of mulch (to save water and suppress weeds). Special treatment and aeration of greens, aprons and fairways. Renovation and raising to ground level of water sprinklers. The aim of all the above is to keep RODA among the best courses in Murcia and Alicante. Why not make a visit to the until the 14th September 2022 We celebrated our August club championship yesterday at La Serena with a 9.30 shotgun start. We were fortunate in that the weather relented a little and 30 degrees was the order of the day. These championship days do not function by themselves and we are indebted to a team of people who all work together to make the event such a success. Thanks are due to the competitions committee under the guidance of Camillus Fitzpatrick and ably assisted by Philip Mountford and Terry Fitzgerald.In the golf shop Karolina looked after all our needs and generated our results within minutes of our completion,gracias.To Gloria and the chef in the restaurant,muchos gracias por Thetodo.course management team led by Miguel have the course in excellent condition thank you. A big thank you must also go to all the organisers of our daily golf events,they do a fantastic job,thank you one and all. July Medal winners were,Andy Currie 68,Terry Lambert 67 and Kevin Fitzpatrick 71.Crystal winners,July Cat I, Camillus Fitzpatrick 42,Alan Proudfoot 41 and Michael THE CELTS CHAMPIONSHIP
we can offer you an additional 5% discount from the already special prices: Single Green Fee = Ä55 Two Green Fees & Buggy = Ä135 Two Green Fees & Buggy (from 1.06pm until 31/08/22 then 3.30pm) = Ä115 Call Mike Probert on (00 34) 661345931 to make a #VisitMurcia#CostaCalida#RegiondeMurcia#CostaCalidaMakesYbooking.ouHappy#ITREM#CostaCálida#RegióndeMurcia#TurismoRM We at THE LEADER are committed to providing to our golfing readers affordable golf without the need to join a club or apply for a card but simply contact the number below to have instant access to discounted golf prices, many of which are exclusive to us: The deals shown in the table are some of the best prices currently available to you: CoursePriceComments AlendaÄ134Two Green Fees & Buggy AlicanteÄ82Two Green Fees & Buggy Altaoana VillageÄ95Two Green Fees & Buggy AltorrealÄ80Two Green Fees & Buggy (holes 10 to 18 played twice) BonalbaÄ90Two Green Fees & Buggy CampoamorÄ136Two Green Fees & Buggy Don Cayo (Altea)Ä90Two Green Fees & Buggy El PlantioÄ82Two Green Fees & Buggy El ValleÄ45Single Green Fee Font Del LlopÄ110Two Green Fees & Buggy Hacienda D AlamoÄ47Single Green Fee La FincaÄ65Single Green Fee La MarquesaÄ52Single Green Fee La SerenaÄ902 Green Fees & Buggy (from 1.08pm) La TorreÄ45Single Green Fee Las ColinasÄ60Single Green Fee (from 4.30pm) Las RamblasÄ972 Green Fees & Buggy (from 2.00pm) LorcaÄ70Two Green Fees & Buggy Lo RomeroÄ50Single Green Fee (from 1.00pm) Mar MenorÄ50Single Green Fee New Sierra GolfÄ68Two Green Fees & Buggy Puig CampanaÄ98Two Green Fees & Buggy RodaÄ1152 Green Fees & Buggy (after 1.06pm) SaurinesÄ47Single Green Fee Villaitana LevanteÄ80Single Green Fee Villaitana PonienteÄ58Single Green Fee & Buggy VillamartinÄ1152 Green Fees & Buggy (after 2.00pm) VistabellaÄ1122 Green Fees & Buggy (after 1.00pm) DEAL OF THE WEEK: Altorreal, 2 players and buggy only Ä75 For Bookings/info Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting reference LEADER or tel on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931
‘AROUND AND ABOUT THE COURSES - RODA’ The beautiful golf course of RODA is located just off the AP7 motorway near the town of Los Alcazares and has long been a favourite of golfers visiting this part of Spain. However the owners of the course have still continued to invest heavily in the business to ensure golfers have the best golf experience possible and below are just a few examples of changes they have made recently: New grass cutters for greens, aprons and rough. New vehicles for transporting machinery. New tools, blades, scarifiers, groomers,etc New hole cutters. New nets for the driving range. New perimeter fences on holes 7,10 and 18. Renewal of directional signs on the course and access signs. Renewal of sets of hire clubs. Renovation of men’s showers and lighting. Improvements to the landscaping at the access of the car park and access areas to the clubhouse. Massive pruning on most holes including all palm trees.
Renewal of sand and a manicure in the waste areas.
SUDUKSUDUKO SOLUTIONO SOLUTION
AUGUST
PAGE 20 Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022www.theleader.info ADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.info QUIZ FROM PAGE 14: 1. a. Holland Dozier and Holland. b. Double Dutch. c. Central. d. Amish. e. Richard Dreyfus. 2. a: Evergreen (Love Theme From A Star Is Born)Barbra Streisand. b: Dancing Queen – Abba. c: You Make Me Feel Like Dancing - Leo Sayer. d: Hotel CaliforniaThe Eagles. e: When I Need You - Leo Sayer. 3. It was a 6 wheel Formula 1 race car. 4. a. Die Hard. b. The Spy Who Loved Me. c. Marathon Man. d. Schindlers List. 5. 15 X higher. 6. Paris. 7. The Eurovision Song Contest. 8. Baltic Sea. 9. Mussels. 10. Blue. 11. Tunis. 12. Bucks Fizz. 13. Their Height (The worlds tallest people). 14. The Grapes of Wrath. 15. The 1947 French Cheval-Blanc is widely recognized as the most expensive bottle of vino sold in 2010 at Christies costing $304,375, 16. Banksters. 17. Southern Rhodesia (Now Zimbabwe). 18. St Sebastian. 19. The human body. From the film Fantastic Voyage. 20. Amadeus (Mozart) Mike Probert talks Golf Here on the Costa’s golf is one of the biggest leisure time activities for both tourists and resident alike and with this in mind we have secured the services of Mike Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services to provide a weekly round up of local golfing events and topics and in conjunction with us at THE LEADER will provide discounted golf prices to all of our readers and run our golf competitions.
WELCOME MURCIA
The region of Murcia has an excellent network of motorways and main roads linking all the major town and cities and relatively cheap car hire and the highspeed rail links have improved dramatically in recent years and there is a superb bus service to almost everywhere in Spain and taxi’s are readily available.
GEOGRAPHY: Murcia is located in the south eastern corner of Spain covering 11,000 sq km has 45 municipalities with one million inhabitants located between the Valencian region to the north and Andalucian region to the west on the Mediterranean sea and has a saltwater lagoon called the Mar Menor with excellent beaches.
CLIMATE: The climate is dry and hot in Summer and mild in winter with temperatures varying from 11 degrees in winter to 40 degrees in summer with an average of 18 degrees and Murcia has 320 days per year of sunshine, the most in Spain.
Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022 PAGE 21www.theleader.infoADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.info
GOLF COURSES: The region of Murcia is blessed with a selection of 16 superb courses suitable for all standards of golfer designed by many of the world’s best golf course designers such as Jack Nicklaus, Dean Putman, Dave Thomas , Seve Ballesteros and Manuel Pinero to name a few and offer a variety of golfing experiences such as the typical resort style with lakes, large bunkers and undulating greens to those based on more of a desert style with rocks and waste areas.
TO
The well documented Jack Nicklaus trail of golf courses including El Valle, Hacienda Riquelme, La Torre and Saurines de La Torre are located close to the RM-19 Autovia de la Mar Menor motorway and offer a mixture of resort and desert style golf.
Michael Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services has lived and worked in this region of Spain since 2004 and is the author of a published book called ‘Golfing Guide to Murcia’ and runs a successful golf agency business and can cater for all your golfing needs here in EnquiriesMurcia. and bookings by
The oldest courses in the region are the North, South and West courses on the La Manga Resort under the shadow of the superb 5* Hotel Principe Felipe and host to numerous celebrity and professional golf tournaments for many years.
LANGUAGE: The standard language is Castellon Spanish as taught in UK schools but English is spoken widely in the region.
STANDARD OF LIVING:
The cost of living in Murcia is now comparable to that of the UK in many respects but eating out and fresh food are still exceptionally good value in Murcia.
orore-mailwww.costa-blanca-greenfees.comvisitingortoinfo@costa-blanca-greenfees.combytelephoneon(0034)966704752(0034)661345931.
Situated close to the Mar Menor beaches are the superb courses of Roda, which is one of the best manicured courses in Murcia and located close to the Hotel 525 which offers play and stay packages and La Serena which boasts 16 holes with water and just inland the resort style course at Mar Menor located next to the 5* Hotel Caleia. Further to the south of the region are the courses of Lorca, Hacienda del Alamo and Alhama which is the Jack Nicklaus signature course and located on the outskirts of Murcia city is the beautiful Altorreal golf course which offers in many ways an English style golf experience.
#TurismoRM
GETTING THERE: The region is serviced well with two international airports based at Corvera near to Murcia city and Alicante which is a one hour drive.
HOTELS AND ACCOMMODATION: Murcia is not only a tourist destination but a residential area for many other nationalities that have made this region their home so there are an abundance of apartments and villa’s available for rent in addition to the excellent 4* & 5* hotels such as the Hotel Felipe Principe, Hotel Caleia, Hotel Double Tree Hilton, Hotel 525 and Hotel Puerto Juan Montiel located close to the golf courses in the area and offering golf packages on a stay and play basis. On a similar theme the Residences at Mar Menor and the Roda Golf Apartments offer apartment style accommodation for those with a slightly smaller budget or those that prefer a more relaxed style holiday and again offer stay and play packages.
GETTING AROUND :
#VisitMurcia #CostaCalida #RegiondeMurcia #CostaCalidaMakesYouHappy #ITREM
BOOKINGS & RESERVATIONS
THINGS TO DO FOR NON-GOLFERS OR ON REST DAYS: For the non-golfers in your group or for your rest days away from the golf course in Murcia and Cartagena the region has cities of great historical significance but also well served by commercial shopping centres such as Thader ,Nueva Condomina, Dos Mares and Espacio Mediterraneo and the beaches on the Mediterranean Sea and Mar Menor are second to none while inland are national parks and mountains where you can find wild boar. #CostaC·lida #RegiÛndeMurcia
El Valle Golf is one of the most emblematic courses in the area Hilton La Torre offers four restaurants including La Vinoteca, with a fine-dining menu featuring locally-sourced ingredients.
The draw for the Linea Directa Valencian Championships was held at Greenlands last Saturday,very well organised by the Competition Secretary John O'Brien,assisted and witnessed by Bob Donnelly,Pete Bonsor and Derek TheToozer.tournament dates are from Wednesday September 14th — Tuesday 27th with the venues at Bonalba,which will be used for the first 9 days,and Greenlands,which will also host the semi-finals and finals,and as both clubs are having new carpets fitted it should be a great contest.
Regardless of this,with so many good bowlers taking part, there will be some cracking games for everybody to enjoy, some of the very first of which will be very closely contested along with many more as the contest progresses.
In the Mens Singles there is Rudy Wattley from Greenlands against Pete Bonsor also from Greenlands, which will be a repeat of their club’s Singles Championship Final earlier this year,a match which proved to be a nailbiter to the very end.There is also Martin Foulcer,Vistabella,against Graham Shoots, Greenlands,and Andy Miles,Greenlands,against Drew Gerrard,Emerald Isle,both of which should be entertaining to watch.
In the Ladies Singles Dee Lane,Bonalba,will play last years runner up Lisa Bonsor,Greenlands,and whilst Lisa has home advantage it should still be a tight game.
In the Mens Pairs the strong Quesada twosome of Peter Morgan and Terry Morgan play Vistabella’s Richard Lee and Martin Foulcer whilst in the Mixed Pairs Richard is playing with Maggie Furness against the husband and wife pairing of Russell and Sabrina Marks,Emerald Isle,and both of these games should be excellent to watch.
If this trend continues it will only be a matter of time before it becomes too late for the Sport to recover.
Comparable entries would have been slightly down on last year,but as Mixed Rinks has been added they are about the same as previously,and with a lot of our well established bowlers participating,and some new names intent on showing how good they can bowl,there will be some very interesting games,so please make an effort to go along to both clubs and enjoy the occasion.
LO ROMERO Thursday 18th August 2022 Alfies Golf Society's August match was held early this month, due to work being carried out onLo Romerolater in the month. Members and guests numbered 27 for the final round of our Eclectic Cup with all to play for at the top. The course as always was in tip top condition and the day was perfect for golf. The Blind Pairs was won by Amrit Dawidow and Rita Potters, both returning their 5 cash prize to the charity fund, so thank you both for that. Dan Jones was the winner on the football card. The Captain’s chosen charity is Help at Home, and the fund currently stands at €1,353.90.
The Silver Division winner was Wayne Stevenson with 36 points The Lucky Lion €25 voucher The Gold Division runner up was Shaun Staplehurst with 36 points The Lucky Lion €12.50 voucher The Gold Division and Overall winner was Chris Udell, with 38 points The Lucky Lion €25 voucher. The Eclectic Cup winner, with an excellent total of 50 Stableford points, was Wayne Stevenson. Many thanks again to The Lucky Lion for their sponsorship support and aftermatch meal and refreshments. Our next fixture will be Captain’s Day on 29th September with a change of venue due to reasons beyond our control and we will be playing at Las TheRamblas.presentations will be made in the evening at the Captain’s Day Dinner to be held at La Finca QFC, Lomas de Don Juan. Details of the dinner will follow Derekshortly.Fleet, Captain
ALFIES GOLF SOCIETY - Eclectic Cup Round 3
Chris Udell - Gold Div & Overall winner 2021 Tournament winners
There are so many to choose but here are a few to whet your appetite;
Linea Valencian Championships
The Longest Drive Hole 16 was won by Chris Udell bottle Gin The Best Net score Hole 10 was won by Dan Jones bottle Brandy The Silver Division runner up was Sam Udell with 35 points The Lucky Lion €12.50 voucher
Following the draw the schedule has now been prepared and as expected all the top bowlers from the region, including many internationals,will be taking part.
For this month's meeting,our popular Captain Peter List chose Vistabella golf course,the course was in good condition and Peter had supplied drinks and fruit to aid our members on this hot summer day,we had eighteen players entered this competition and the scores on the day were excellent with twelve players scoring over thirty pts. The presentation was made back at our sponsor bar Little Leias close to Consum in Quesada where Peter and his wife Glenys had laid an assortment of snacks on,making everyone happy.
PAGE 22 Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022 ADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.infowww.theleader.info
In our presentation,the winner of the longest drive of which hole three had been selected was Duncan Williamson,the nearest the pin in two on par four hole twelve was Barrie Hopkinson the nearest the pin on par five hole fourteen in three was Rob Ashman,our NTPs on holes two were Nick Monks,hole seven Ray Pollock hole eleven Rob Ashman and hole fifteen Martin Collins,our runner up with thirty-nine points was Terry Sharley and our winner who scored forty points was Chris Soane I have to say well done to all our winners and please note handicap cuts have already been made. Many prizes were given out of which there are too many to detail.Finally,our soccer card winner with Coventry was Nick Monks. Many thanks to Ian and his Staff at the ever-popular Little Leias bar for making everyone welcome on our their Thankreturnyou all for a entertaining evening.
In the South there are three clubs that have no entries and another two with just a few,whilst in the North only the host club and Calpe Paseo have entries,but due to magnificent support by the two host clubs,plus Emerald Isle and Country Bowls,who between them account for 75% of the entries,the overall entries are almost the same as last year.
MATCH RESULTS N P Hole 5 went to Chris Udell N P in 2 Hole 9 went to Mike NFitzpatrickPHole 12 went to Tony Hall N P in 3 Hole 17 went to Richard NWatsonPin3 Hole 18 went to Steve Croft All the above won a €10 Voucher for Lo Romero Golf Course
BUSTERS GOLF With Barry Grinsell Busters Golf Society August 2022 report Captains day
In the Mixed Triples and Mixed Rinks there are so many equally matched teams it is difficult to say which will be the most closely contested games so why not come along and see for yourself.Admission at both venues,where you will be treated to fierce competition and top class bowling, is absolutely free. By Bob Donnelly.
Unfortunately,there are still many clubs that have not entered,which shows the lack of support for competitions within the bowling community.
Directa
The final results calculation emphasised what a great, closely fought sailing season SAMM competitors had enjoyed. This was despite the fact that, for various reason which included bad weather, other events scheduled at CTD and Covid cases among officials and competitors, the planned 18 races were reduced to just 8. The results show a good distribution of first and second places among the competing boats which emphasised the very close, hard fought competition all through the season. To calculate the final results the points of the worst two race results were dropped for every boat and this gave very tight final scores. Just three quarters of a point separating the winning boat Ginetta from the second placed boat Shoestring Dos and, a quarter of a point separating Dos and the third place boat, Shoestring TheUno.autumn season is scheduled to start on October 9th. To find out everything about SAMM visit: www.sailingmarmenor.com
Last week saw the members of the La Marina Golf Society play the last round of their Summer Cup.The venue was the challenging course of Font Del Llop,the weather was hot as expected but with a strong breeze blowing through the valley it made for a very pleasant day golfing. The winners of the day's play were,Colin Taylor with 37pts,Roy Harris with 36pts and Louvain Smith with 35pts.A very close game all round.One of our new members Mike Pearce won two nearest the pins on holes 3 and 8,well done Mike and welcome to the club.Colin Taylor won hole 12 and also took the twos pot,with Jimmy Fegan winning on hole Later16.in the evening the members and their guests attended the Summer Cup presentation dinner at the Sports Complex and a big thank you to Helena and her staff for making it a most enjoyable evening. After our Captain Jeff Wiszniewski had presented the day's winners with their prizes,it was down to our Vice Captain Iain Lyall to present the prizes and Trophy to the Summer Cup winners.The best 2 scores were taken from the 4 games,therefore in third place with 78pts was Paul Crump,second was Jeff Wiszniewski with 80pts and on countback also with 80pts was our overall winner Louvain Smith,well done Louvain.
The most recent involved a trip to Guardamar last Wednesday, then a home match 2 days later. Against regional div 2 side Guardamar, newly signed Mirete made his debut, and will be sharing goalkeeping duties with Pablo and Amine throughout the season. Although he didn't keep a clean sheet, he did produce a number of important saves, in a match where Pedro Juan put the visitors ahead just before the interval. Parity was restored on 55 mins, before attacking full back Rosquin scored a cracker to make it a 2-1 victory for Thader. Fast forward to Friday, when Alicante based Jove Espanol arrived at Moi Gomez stadium with high hopes of promotion from the 3rd division. Once again, there were many changes from the previous match, in which only captain Lloyd, Berni & Rafa were the only survivors. It looked like Quino's 40th min strike would be enough to win the match, but Amine could do little to prevent the equalizing Jove goal after 76 mins, and that's the way it finished.
Thursday Darts A.G.M.
A Great End to the SAMM Race Season
THADER ALL SET FOR NEW PREFERENTE SEASON
La Marina Golf Society Summer Cup CUP Winner Louvain Smith
SUMMER
Start of the second race Quino’s strike put Thader in front
Having completed all of their pre season friendlies, it's now all systems go for CD Thader. They start the new campaign with the arrival of UD Ilicitana to the Moi Gomez stadium next Sunday 4 September, ko 11.30. It's been non stop action since they played the first of these warm up matches on 3 August, having squeezed in 7 matches in that time.
The Thader lineup gainst Jove Img CDThader
Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022 PAGE 23www.theleader.infoADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.info
The meeting took place at the Tipsy Toad, El Galan on 25th August. Existing officers Paul Durrant, Simone de Lacy and Bob Smith were re elected unanimously for the coming season. Fourteen teams were re elected, with four new teams applying to join, namely C.C.'s Bees, CK 1 Ladybirds, Fallen Angels and CK 1 Boys. All four were accepted, 18 teams now competing for honours. In his annual address, League Chairman, Paul Durrant, thanked departing co sponsor Shane Denness of S.S.D. Tiling for their invaluable support, welcoming Serenity Insurance as the new main sponsor, previous main sponsors, One Way Services now supporting Serenity. Long term partner the Leader newspaper group will continue their weekly match and competition coverage, to include participating bar advertising. The Chair added that despite background hiccups the 180+ presentation guests enjoyed an excellent evening, the usual personal trophies replaced by prizes such as professional dart cases and superb pen sets, all recipients welcomed the change. The League accounts were in their usual healthy position and passed. The Chair sourced a new European "Shark Pro" dartboard, an equivalent board to the previously used "Winmau Blade", import costs prohibitive to the UK example, the membership in agreeAnticipatedment. start date is September 22nd, subject to fixture completion by the committee. Boards, fixtures, rules, decals etc will be delivered one week prior to League start. Acash award was proposed for any 170 game shot, which has looked safe to date, l expect however, it to be achieved at least once.
PAGE 24 Monday 29th August - Sunday 4th September 2022www.theleader.info ADVERTISINGHOTLINE 637 227 385 office@theleader.info
