Costa blanca leader edition 618

No 618

Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22ndMay, 2016

Tel: 637 227 385

LĂ­nea Directa Nationals off to a Positive Start With rather more than the usual interest from the International media The 22nd opening ceremony of the LĂ?nea Directa National Lawn Bowls Championship was held in beautiful sunshine at the Emerald Isle Bowls Club on Saturday morning where competitors, all resplendent in their club colours, paraded in front of a healthy and supportive crowd, at a venue richly

adorned with the National and Regional flags.

The ceremony was attended by members of the UK press corps, as well being filmed by ZDF, a German National television station based in Mainz, with, no doubt, much of the additional interest created by the impending EU vote.

Always a very colourful affair, this year was no different as each of the represented clubs marched onto the green in turn to be loudly applauded by a large number of spectators, before wheeling around to line up in front of the guests platform.

Continued on Page 6

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Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

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Benidorm Bingo ‘Busted’ JOINING FORCES Telephone

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

The Regional Police have been clamping down on illegal gambling activities in Benidorm this week, targeting bingo and sports betting, as well as street game con artists.

The bingo games were being held in a premises licensed as a catering establishment, where the officers seized 1,059 euro in cash, a microphone, an electronic bingo machine, bingo tickets and other items.

In a second operation, sporting events being held in the UK were being bet on by visitors to another catering establishment. Here, the officers seized a laptop, a scanner, a validating machine and 677 euro in cash.

Finally, a group which would con people in the streets were also targeted. This group would use a cardboard table set up in the street and give performances where the victims had to guess the correct out of three possible items. The cardboard table was seized in the raid, along with other items used in the “game” and 107 euro in cash.

On 7th May Crescendo International Choir presented a ‘sell out’ concert with the Chivenor Military Wives. It was an emotional concert with tears from the audience and both choirs.

Thanks go to TCF for the use of their hall, and Torrevieja Mens Barbershop Chorus for use of their risers.

There weresmiles at the end when the Chivenor Military Wives received €2,000 for their charity The Military Wives and Crescendo International Choir received €2,000 for The Royal British Legion, Torrevieja Branch.

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Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

New Junior School finally approved for Orihuela Costa

Parents can finally celebrate as the contract details are announced by the Cllr for Education

A

fter over 14 years in temporary accommodation the Orihuela Councillor for Education, Begoña Cuartero, confirmed last week that the Valencian Ministry of Works, at a cost of 6.6 million euro, has now finally awarded the contract to build the new Playas de Orihuela Junior School on the Orihuela Costa.

The contract to tender was first set out in May 2015 since which time a number of interested parties have been frantically negotiating with the Valencian Conselleria. As with most newbuilds there were many questions and technical points that had to be resolved before final bids could be prepared and submitted but with that done the Ministry has now chosen the builder and awarded the contract.

Completion of the new CEIP Playas de Orihuela will take no more than 18 months so after a generation in prefabricated accommodation the wait is very nearly over for the Costa’s young children.

On receipt of the news the mothers of APA Playas de Orihuela, a parents group first formed in 2009, by just 10 mothers, issued their own press release thanking the local media, Spanish and English Language, for the constant pressure they have

applied over the years on the Ayuntamiento,” without which we would not be at this stage.”

They recalled many of the hardships and misfortunes suffered by the children during their time in the temporary buildings, water running down the walls, into the electrical sockets which had to be turned off, flooding in the classrooms and hallways, the freezing conditions during the winter months. “All these will soon be behind us,” said one relieved parent. “Just one more winter and the children will be in a brand new, modern building, complete with the excellent facilities which they fully deserve.”

In their press release APA also said that they will not allow local politicians to gloat in success as they claim credit for the new school because the victory is not theirs but that of the local community, many associations, local residents, other APA’s, teachers and non-teaching staff, many of whom had been involved in regular demonstrations over the last 6 or 7 years.

The victory belongs to the students who, in 18 months time, will be able to enjoy and to study in a dignified manner at the new school, CEIP Playas de Orihuela.

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Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

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FOOT TAPPING OOMPAH New Rent hike for Torrevieja water park N ext Tuesday afternoon, 24 May, a treat is in store at the New Asturias Restaurant in Punta Prima where the hugely popular Alpengold Oompah Band will be performing on the terrace alongside the Crazy Ladies Dance Troupe between 2 and 4pm.

AQs you might expect the theme will create an atmosphere of the Wine & Beer Festivals held annually throughout Germany.

An afternoon of foot tapping music, plus the Crazy Ladies compeered by Herr Willi.

Admission is absolutely free and a donation will be made to a charity.

The Acuópolis water park in Torrevieja is set to be granted a license to use the municipal land it occupies for a further 15 years, but not without facing a land rent price increase five times what it has been paying.

The park, run by Parques Reunidos, has been renting 100,000 square metres of public land from the town hall for the last 30 years, paying the annual rental fee of 54,500 euro. Under the new extension to the contract, the annual rent would become 248,621 euro.

Spokesperson for Torrevieja town hall, Fanny Serrano, said in a press conference, “We are doubly pleased because the facility offers a complementary tourist attraction to the sun and beach and is maintained to give greater reliability to the heritage resources of the municipality. The water park

is still interested in maintaining its activity in Torrevieja and also with an approach of renewal and investment with the launch of new attractions.

One of the favourable options would be to promote the water park as part of the tourisms of Torrevieja as a whole”.

The councillor also pointed out that the company had been paying well below the market value for many years and therefore the terms of the contract had to be negotiated and upgraded. The plot is classified as “urban” land, though not residential, with permission to build on it and has a current list value in the region of 23 million euro and that value had to be calculated into the rental price.

In addition to the attraction itself, the site also has a car park for five thousand vehicles with a standard ticket costing just under 25 euro per person.

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Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

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Continued From Page One Following the players the loudest cheer of the morning was for the competition umpires, always the beneficiaries of ‘friendly’ banter from the players.

Despite having the furthest distance to travel, Teide Bowls Club from Tenerife had a good sized contingent on parade, with representatives also from many of the local clubs as well as those from further south.

Following the parade of teams the new Spain National Director, Bob Donnelly, welcomed the bowlers and all of the guests and spectators to the championships.

He gave particular thanks to the tournament sponsors Línea Directa who were supporting the championships for the very first time. He said how delighted he was to have such a major international company endorsing the 2016 tournament and hoped that this would be the start of a long and fruitful relationship for them with National Bowls.

Neil Reardon answered on behalf of the tournament sponsor wishing all of the competitor’s success in their efforts, and pointing out that it was their skills and exemplary conduct when playing that would undoubtedly make the competition such a memorable event.

Seamus Moran, the popular owner of the Emerald complex, then handed the rink over to the

tournament committee after which Neil and Seamus delivered the two opening bowls.

ZDF remained at the complex for most of the remainder of the day during which they interviewed a number of the bowlers and guests, including Councillor Sofia Alvarez and National Director Bob Donnelly.

With the triples getting underway early in the afternoon, at least for the successful competitors there now follows an arduous two weeks of bowling, while for those not so lucky there is always the opportunity to renew old acquaintances and to make new friends.

The tournament runs until 28th May at the Emerald Isle Bowls Club with entry free starting at 10am. There will even be a ‘taster’ session for potential bowlers next Sunday 22nd May where, from 2.30 pm, anyone wishing to try out the game can go along and give it a go themselves. Everything will be provided absolutely free including bowls, shoes and tuition.

The two Blue Ribbon events, the Gents and the Ladies Singles, get underway on Wednesday and Thursday. With Pete Bonsor in Australia we are assured of a new men’s champion while the 2015 ladies winner, Jan Dando will begin her defence of the title at 2pm on Wednesday afternoon against Ann Holland.

Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

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A smile makes all the difference

looking after your oral wellbeing, whether it be cosmetic or restorative.

Their expertise in building smiles changes lives; quite literally, as they use their artistic approach to fully assess every individual mouth, from every conceivable angle, to ensure that any work carried out fits your own facial features.

The team at Gerhard Nagel speak a host of languages, including English, Spanish and German, which has enabled them to build up a big international clientele. Isabel, will help you arrange an appointment. If anyone has an emergency, the staff will do their utmost to fit you in that day. The clinic has its own laboratory, so work such as repairs to dentures or moulding of teeth, are done very quickly. They also have a panoramic X-ray machine, which enables them to get a very accurate picture of your whole mouth.

The clinic is used to dealing with holiday makers too, and will do fillings and bridges etc. at the drop of a hat. Specialist services, such as teeth whitening or cosmetic surgery, are also available. Children are welcome to come for check ups and pain free treatment. The clinic prides itself on prompt service. No more long waits for something you need now.

A visit to the dentist always touches a nerve, often in a metaphoric sense, rather than literal, and often because of a fear that most of us seem to harbour, but usually without justification.

However, the good news is that times have changed. Dentists are not to be feared, nor are dental surgeries, as the modern dentist thrives from within a warm and welcoming environment and with the most modern precision equipment, that as soon as you walk into a modern dentist´s office, you feel comfortable, welcome and your fears are eased.

The Gerhard Nagel clinic at La Zenia is one such place. Having been established on the Costa Blanca since 1997, and one of the first practices in the country to offer high quality cosmetic dentistry, the experience and knowledge of the team behind the surgery has grown since their initial opening, keeping up to date with the most modern practices and equipment, to ensure that they have always maintained the highest standards of dental care available, with the overall aim of

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Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

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Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

Extra Red Cross support for homeless Following an agreement with the Cruz Roja, a new vehicle was presented to workers this week which will tour Orihuela, Guardamar and Callosa del Segura on a weekly basis, offering shower facilities to the homeless.

The idea is to give those who lack basic home facilities the chance for

a weekly clean in the vehicle which has been especially adapted to house four shower cubicles, although only two are used on a regular basis, the other two used for storage.

The vehicle was presented in Orihuela by the Cruz Roja coordinator in the city, Pilar Ibáñez, and the councillor for Social Welfare, Sabina Galindo, who said that the town hall are providing electricity and water filling points for the vehicle.

Every Thursday volunteers across the city and the periphery will head out in search of people living on the streets and provide them with information, advice, companionship, emotional support and even trips to the hospital or health centre. In short, “we inform you of resources and approached them so they can bathe.”

This outreach work also visits Callosa de Segura and Guardamar del Segura, where it is not uncommon for between 20 and 40 people to be helped each time.

The organisers are also looking at extending the service to cover Torrevieja and Almoradí in the future.

SAVING WATER IN GUARDAMAR The town hall of Guardamar del Segura has collaborated with water supply firm Hidraqua to launch a new water recycling facility that will be used to irrigate the pine forests around the municipality and the castle area.

The project involved adapting a pump installation that was built by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura, ensuring that the water flows through a pumped system towards a routing network that then distributes the water through a sprinkler system in the different areas.

The mayor, José Luis Sáez, said that, “this system performs a dual function because it saves using drinking water for irrigation, meaning the residents have a more consistent supply, and by reusing water for irrigation means that it is less pure than that for consumption but rich in nutrients and minerals that help to feed the soil.”

The rich water also provides other benefits to the pine forests as it makes them more resistant to pests and parasites that can threaten the health of the trees.

For their part, spokesperson for Hidraqua, Juan José Alonso, said that the responsibility for conserving water lies with us all, therefore, “Hidraqua will continue working in Guardamar for a model of fully sustainable management, allowing us to meet our needs without compromising the resources of future generations.”

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Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

A trip of a lifetime This was the first time that the children had seen the sea

Twelve disabled children from Russia visited the Costa Blanca this week, thanks to a collaboration with the Fundación Lukas in Sant Joan, Alicante.

The children, who are mostly orphans, flew over four thousand kilometres to sample the sun, sea and even paella on the Mediterranean coast, and for many of them, not only was it the first time they had dipped their toes in the water, it was the first time in their lives they had been given the opportunity to leave their own country and sample something new.

The group flew into Madrid before taking the train to Alicante and then a bus to their destination, and bathing in the sea was the first thing on their mind when they saw the Costa Blanca from the windows of the bus.

Despite the warnings of the cold, many of the children still insisted on the experience, before returning to base to partake in a variety of cultural workshops and a singalong with the children in their host home.

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Sánchez Butrón support for the RBL The Orihuela Costa Royal British Legion has a new venue for its monthly committee meetings, the La Zenia offices of the recently arrived Law Firm Sánchez Butrón, just a couple of doors along from De Bassus German Beer Cellar.

Previously gathering in the house of the Vice Chairman the offer to use the company conference room by office manager Walter Monfort Torné came at a chance meeting with Chairman Keith Carter last month.

The photograph shows Keith and members thanking Walter last Thursday when the committee used the soli-

citor’s facilities for the first time.

Sánchez Butrón will also support the RBL by displaying Legion literature and attending their frequent charity events.

Chairman Keith Carter & members of the Orihuela Costa Committee with Walter

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Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

The Computer and Laptop Repair Company La Marina Operating now for over 12 years The Computer Company on the La Marina Urbanisation has established itself with a reputation for quality of service and effective repairs in as little time, and therefore inconvenience to you, as possible. In these techno times we all seem to be in one way or another reliant on our PC’s, Laptops and Tablets for either work or pleasure or merely just a means of keeping in touch with loved ones via email or speaking to them via Skype.

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Hope Christian Fellowship Non-Denominational Evangelical Church

Staff at the Computer Company pride themselves on their high level of customer service

Whatever your needs, The Computer Company know how important your particular device is to you and they pride themselves on their high levels of customer service and keep themselves organised and efficient by making sure everything goes through their booking system.

Having changed hands 3 years ago the business continues with the same quality of service, advice and products and the link is the younger Nick (dad is Nick senior) has worked at The Computer Company for the past Nine years providing the technical expertise that he has built up over the years while dad brings all his experience in sales and marketing to this busy little shop.

A good range of stock is also available and on display with new and often refurbished computers for sale with warranties and a backup service that you can rely on.

Printers, inks, cables you name it and The Computer Company will probably have it, but if not most items can be ordered and in the shop within a day or two, Mobile phone top ups and unlocking is another of the services available in store.

Sometimes we need some good professional advice and although often we know a certain amount about how to get our computer working there are times when we need a good honest professional to point us in the right direction with advice that is to our benefit not to the shop’s profit margin. That’s where the two Nick’s stand out; offering solid advice knowing that in the long term customers will see that they do the very best for them and return to use their services again, which they do.

Boasting the largest display of English laptops on the Costa Blanca The Computer Company can advise anyone buying a computer of the machine that will best suit their requirements whether that’s a tower system, a laptop or a tablet – the guys will help you all along the way.

The personal touch is what they offer and that goes a long way when we are stressing over lost files or images or any of the other mountain of problems that can surprise us on our computers.

Based in Calle Dublin on the Urbanisation in La Marina The Computer Company is open from Monday to Friday from 10am until 5pm and can be contacted on 966 796 882 and on email via adsl@computers-spain.com.

Pop in and see Nick and Nick for any computer needs, they know what they are doing and have built up a sound reputation throughout the region for their excellent service and knowledge.

Situated in Urbanisation La Marina, Hope Christian Fellowship (HFC) was launched in April 2012.

We are a friendly English speaking church offering fellowship to all. We have had as many as 10 different nationalities at our meetings, from places as far afield as Germany, Holland, Sweden, Norway, South Africa, Iceland, India, Surinam, Switzerland and Latvia, as well as many expats from the UK. We are a church that believes in playing an integral part in the community, and to this end we help and support the poor and needy in our locality. We are also active in supporting an orphanage in Swaziland, and hope in the near future to be involved in helping to build a new church in that country.

We would love to see you at one of our Sunday services.

Our regular Sunday service is 11.00, where you will be given a very warm welcome by everyone, and we have a prayer meeting on Wednesday mornings also at 11.00.

We are situated on Avda Justo Antonio Quesada, opposite market square.

For more details contact Pastor Bryan on 966 184 728 / 600 089 588 or Marilyn on 633 340 121

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Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

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Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 1 Dead; 3 Watchful; 9 Soldier; 10 Utter; 11 Anticipation; 13 Cranny; 15 Prison; 17 Extortionate; 20 Aroma; 21 Dissent; 22 Mastered; 23 Stay.

DOWN: 1 Distance; 2 Allot; 4 Abrupt; 5 Counterpoise; 6 Fatuous; 7 Lure; 8 Disconsolate; 12 Ancestry; 14 Anxious; 16 Stodge; 18 Alert; 19 Calm.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Fact; 3 Swaggers; 9 Ravioli; 10 Onset; 11 Wicketkeeper; 13 Rapids; 15 Vienna; 17 Encyclopedia; 20 Recto; 21 Maestro; 22 Black tie; 23 Eden.

DOWN: 1 Firework; 2 Civic; 4 Whisky; 5 Goose pimples; 6 Eastern; 7 Site; 8 Domesday book; 12 Macaroon; 14 Panacea; 16 Alumni; 18 Dated; 19 Grub.

ACROSS 1.

Focus (11) 9.

Survive (7) 10. Temptress (5) 11. Giant (5) 12. Terse (7) 13. Changeable (6) 15. Stress (6) 18. Sure (7) 20. Danger (5) 22. Coach (5) 23. Pariah (7) 24. Suppleness (11)

DOWN 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

14.

16.

17.

19.

21.

Group of eight (5) Duct (7) Observe (6) Mounted (5) Motor (7) Act pompously (11) Barrenness (11) Shorten (7) Finance (7) Inter (6) Additional building (5) Respond (5)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z DOWN 2. They may be served after breaking a wrist (5) 3. Charlady seen in the garden? (3,4) 4. Puzzle out in game (6) 5. It's lawful for the French prisoner to return (5) 6. Short nightdress (7) 7. Paternoster for MCC members? (5,6) 8. I love to tidy up the office as a peace offering (5,6) 14. Respect new staff (7) 16. Ruin the opening? (7) 17. Country hat (6) 19. Some of these sound silly! (5) 21. Of birth in South Africa (5)

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

Solution on Page 23

09

12

23

24

32

51

BONUS BALL

16

07

15

28

31

42

LUCKY STARS

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Tuesday Euromillions jackpot 21 million euro Wednesday UK Lottery jackpot 8 million euro

famous for his song I saw the light?

7. Which Oscar winning actress, famous for her film line "Divine decadence darling", was Freddy Mercury's stage role model?

8. What did all of the following have in common?

Claudius Ceasar, Dudley Moore, Mother Theresa, Josef Goebbels and Lord Byron 9. Which now retired, youthful looking player has scored the most goals (7) while coming on as a substitute in Champions League football?

10. With 81.9 million foreign tourists in 2007, which country is ranked as the first tourist destination in the world?

11. "Samhain", literally means "end of summer" and is a Gaelic language word. What is it's direct English equivalent?

12. Who's managerial career took off when he became the manager of AS Monaco, winning the league in a year later, the national cup three years after that and signed high-calibre players such as

Glenn Hoddle, George Weah and Jürgen Klinsmann?

13. Churchill called it the "largest capitulation" in British history after 80,000 British led troops surrendered to the enemy. In which tiny country did this take place?

14. Trick-or-treating, also known as guising, is an activity for children on Halloween in which they proceed from house to house in costumes, asking for treats such as candy with the question, "Trick or treat?". In which country did this practice originate?

15. Which Hollywood 'golden boy', who won a best actor Oscar for his role as a POW, was best man at Ronald and Nancy Reagan's wedding?

QUIZ ANSWERS 1. Bahamas, 2. Cloverfield, 3. Left, 4. Her Royal Highness (HRH) The Princess Elizabeth, Duchess of Edinburgh (before then she was 'Her Royal Highness The Princess Elizabeth' and obviously afterwards 'Her Majesty The Queen'.

In Jersey and Guernsey she is also the 'Duke of Normandy').

5. a. minestrone (10cc), b. lobster (B-52s), c. bananas (Harry Chapin), d. truffle (Beatles), e. lollipop (Max Bygraves). 6.

Todd Rundgren. 7. Liza Minelli (from the film Cabaret). 8. A club foot. 9. Ole Gunnar Solskjar (The baby-faced assassin).

10. France (second was Spain with 58.5 million and the United States with 51.1 million, coming a close third). 11.

November. 12. Arsène Wenger (most successful manager in the history of Arsenal in terms of trophies and is also the club's longest-serving manager in terms of matches played).

13. Singapore (Feb 1942) 80,000 British, Indian and Australian troops surrendered to the Japanese. 14. The United Kingdom, surprisingly, even mentioned in Shakespeare's The Two Gentlemen of Verona. 15. William Holden.

ACROSS 1. Warned Liszt about this country (11) 9. Otherwise the wise men return with one oriental art (7) 10. Russian writer dancing with a student (5) 11. Girl's company nightclub (5) 12. Cocktail, but not a Black Russian (7) 13. Overtook and succeeded in driving test (6) 15. Excellent agent in bus coming back (6) 18. Ira came from here! (7) 20. And no change for the girl (5) 22. Let ox out with praise (5) 23. Continental like one with a nervous twitch (7) 24. Surfing leap made in the Middle East (7,4)

1. Columbus first discovered the 'New World' on the 12th of October 1492. The land they first stepped on is called what today?

2. The title of which recent monster film was apparently the US military code name for New York City during the cold war?

3. The original meaning of the word sinister, derived from the Latin sinestra, was not evil. What did sinister mean? Clue if needed, the wrong answer is right.

4. What was the full official title of Queen Elizabeth II in Britain between the 20th November 1947 and the 6th February 1952?

5. Complete each of the following song titles with something to eat: (one word only needed). a. Life is a, b. Rock, c. 30,000, d. Savoy, e. When you come to the end of your 6. Liz Tyler didn't learn the true identity of her biological father until age nine. Until that time she was told she was the daughter of which rock star,

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‘Twitters from the Atlantic’ Barrie Mahoney was a head teacher and school inspector in the UK, as well as a reporter in Spain, before moving to the Canary Islands to launch and edit a new English language newspaper. He enjoys life in the sun as a columnist and author, and continues to write a series of popular novels, books for expats, as well as designing mobile apps and websites to promote the Canary Islands.

The ‘Would-be’ Expat Several years ago, I launched a new website: www.thecanaryislander.com that was initially designed to support the tourism industry in the face of a looming recession. I soon began to receive emails from many would-be expats, and I began to include pages that related specifically to living and working in the Canary Islands and Spain, which also became the subject of several of my books.

The Canary Islander website receives many visitors each week, and the most popular pages continue to be ‘Living and Working in Spain and the Canary Islands’. I receive many emails from would-be expats asking for advice, and although I cannot answer all requests, I do try to include the content of many issues raised in my weekly ‘Letters from the Atlantic’. One regular question is, of course, “How do I get a job in the Canary Islands?”

I met an old acquaintance in town the other day. He appeared to be both angry and disappointed that employers in the Canary Islands were not anxious to give him a job. I pointed out that as the Canary Islands and Spain have the worst unemployment situation in Europe, the priority would be given to locals when it came to job opportunities, and particularly since he didn’t speak Spanish. Maybe he could try setting up his own business, since I knew that he had skills that could come in useful. I suspect that my suggestion fell on deaf ears.

He went on to tell me that his friend had managed to get a job, but it was only paying him 40 euros a day, which he dismissed as derisory.

I can think of several local families who would be only too pleased to

receive this amount on a regular basis.

The lack of determination to fulfil their dream is often one of the things that surprises and disappoints me about many would-be expats.

Many assume that there are jobs and accommodation waiting to be handed to them. Regularly, I point out that, since these islands suffer from the worst unemployment in Europe, most jobs will usually be offered to the Canarians and Spanish who already live here and speak the language.

I also receive requests for information about jobs offering full time contracts with health care and benefits, which also surprise me; has anyone seen one of these contracts recently? Others demand “at least the minimum wage”, whatever that is nowadays. Suggestions that they may like to try a job in the catering or leisure industry where there is seasonal demand usually fall on deaf ears. One message this week states, “I am a nurse, and I am looking for a job in the hospital”, followed by “I don't speak Spanish, but I could learn”. Maybe a course in Spanish would be a good idea before applying for a job in Spain? Unrealistically, many of my correspondents are looking to find a job similar to the one that they have in the UK, offering similar pay and conditions, but with the added bonus of a life in the sun. Sadly, most will be disappointed, because many are unwilling to try something new and challenging, as well as creating an opportunity for themselves The harsh truth is that the good times for would-be expats are rapidly disappearing, and will change even more rapidly should the UK leave the European Union. Those halcyon years of free movement of people and jobs, together with affordable housing waiting for any expats wishing to move to a life in the sun in France, Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece are coming to an end.

It is not all bad news, as opportunities do still exist for those would-be expats who are prepared to make an effort. Some of the most satisfied

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By Bar rie Mahoney expats that I know are those that have created a job for themselves; they have spotted a demand and tried to fill it. I have neighbours and friends that work from home designing websites, logos or other computer-related tasks. Another has a market stall and does quite nicely selling candles, ornamental lights and other mood accessories to tourists. Another may be found in one of the commercial centres drawing cartoons of those who are prepared to take the risk. I know of a couple running a pet-sitting business, whilst another is a home hairdresser, and one enterprising young man who set up a wind surfing school. These people will never be rich, but they are happy to be in a land of their choosing and earn enough to survive.

Of course, such work is not practical if the intending expat has a young family, health conditions, has expensive tastes or is not prepared to work hard.

However, opportunities do and always will exist for the determined and those that do not expect to be simply handed an opportunity. Yes, it does take imagination, the ability to identify a need and the determination to succeed, but it can be done.

So for all those would-be expats who are expecting an opportunity to be handed to them on a plate, forget it. In today’s world, it is unlikely to happen. Many commentators suggest that opportunities that currently exist, and which many expats have enjoyed over many years, will certainly reduce if the UK leaves the European Union. However, if would-be expats are determined enough to ‘live their dream’, they can make it happen.

If you enjoyed this article, take a look at Barrie’s websites: www.barriemahoney.com and www.thecanaryislander.com or read his book, ‘Island in the Sun’ (ISBN: 9780992767181). Available in paperback, as well as Kindle. © Barrie Mahoney

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Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

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Call: 868 08 34 55. Or Email: a n n a - g a rg a n @ h o t m a i l . c o m

Car and Vehicle Sales The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2015 Ford C-Max priced at just 17,900 euro. Come along to our showroom in Elche or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. The biggest and best for price, choice and quality. (69148)

Social and Clubs

Boats and Nautical Boat servicing, engine oil/ filter change. General maintenance, fault finding, anti fouling, hull cleaning, accessory installation.

Torrevieja to Mazarron. Licensed and registered in Spain, 20 years experience. All makes of outboard engines catered for.

Competitive prices, all work guaranteed English/Spanish speaking. Call Tony on 628 166 738 (65470) FOR RENT - up to 10 metre berth - Marina Salinas - CALL 648 627 272 (69101)

Business Opportunity Pringle vending machine route.All cash income.Net 18k euros p.a Sell Eeuro 14,900 697 834934 Busy Profitable Bar /Restaurant in La Manga. Free Hold Premises, Front Line Med. Turn Key Operation, 100 covers. All licences in place. 240,000â‚Ź O.N.O. Selling due to retirement.

Volunteers are urgently needed in all areas by the Age Concern LIFELINE Team visiting people in their own homes to assess their needs, reporting back to the Lifeline Team Leader. There are many people who live alone, are lonely and need some form of social contact. Please call Age Concern on 96 678 6887.

(69185) HAH CB need you to help us help those in need in their own homes in areas surrounding Quesada, San Luis, La Siesta Torrevieja, La Mata, Orihuela Costa, Villamartin to Campoverde, short or long term medical conditions of all ages and nationalities.

We are busy looking after 60 plus clients short and long term who need a friend to pop in regularly.

We need volunteers who can offer Home Help, Carers, Respite, Translation and Fund raising. If you seek help or advice relating to Spanish Social & Welfare issues, contact our head office on 965 328 794 or

email charitycentre.helpathomecb@gmail.com.

Pets Delmonte Catotel Cartagena. The cattery that cares! Tel 968 168 711 or 616 276 379 (69083)

Tuition Spanish lessons. Certified teacher.

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Property for Rent LOS ALTOS spacious 2 bed 2 bath corner apartment with garden.

Separate kitchen, walking distance to amenities 450 euros per calendar month, including allowance for bills. Long term contracts provided 966 772 553 CABO ROIG/AQUAMARINA 2 bed 1 bath ground floor apartment on gated complex.

Spacious lounge/diner with American style kitchen. Patio doors leading to a walled garden area. Double and twin rooms with fitted wardrobes. UKTV Communal pool. 475 euros pcm including an allowance for bills.

Call us on 966 772 553 URGENT! - Properties required for waiting clients. We are receiving requests for La Zenia, Playa Flamenca, San Miguel schools catchment area, 2 or 3 bed houses, and detached villas.

Let your property earn you money - CALL NOW on 966 772 553 PILAR DE LA HORADADA. 2 Bed 2 bath townhouse in quiet cul-de-sac location. South facing, comfortable furnishings, English TV, communal pool, short walk to town 450 euros per month, inclusive of allowance for bills. Legal let with contracts 966 772 553 WANTED URGENTLY We are

receiving requests for La Zenia, Playa Flamenca, San Miguel schools catchment area, detached houses. If you think your property may be suitable please CALL NOW on 966 772 553

Property for Sale For Sale Town House In SAX/Alicante. 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, with separate granny flat.

Single Garage space & 50 metre Patio. Quiet area with no community fees. Close to all local amenities. 160,000â‚Ź O.N.O. Call: 868 08 34 55 Or email: anna-gargan@hotmail.com LA MANGA - Immaculate 2 bed, 2 bath apartment. Fully-furnished. Close to beaches and Veneziola Golf. 2nd floor.

Reduced for quick sale. 125.500 Euro. Tel 626 253 569. (90187) Dolores. Large Finca in plot of 10,000 m2. All services connected. Build Size 215m2. Must be viewed. 195,000 euros. Tel 649 189 930 (65297) Beautifully presented 2 bed ground floor bungalow. Property consists of Lounge/Diner, good sized kitchen with storage area, Master bedroom with fitted wardrobes, twin bedroom with fitted wardrobes and family bathroom. Good sized garden and communal pool. This property is located just a short stroll to Villamartin and is ideal for full

time living and holidays 80,000 euros Tel 966 772 553 (92320) A stunning quad villa in playa golf property with 2 bedrooms 1.5 bathroom and large garden just a short walk from bars and the bus and only a 5 mins drive to the beach 115,000 euros contact Ian on 644 115 988 (96290) 2 Bedroom quad villa in Lomas de Cabo Roig just 5 mins walk to the shop and about 5 mins drive to the beach this has been a lovely home but need to sell now it only 89,999 euros call Carl on 672 875 251 (96292) Ground floor bungalow over looking community garden and just a short walk from the supermarket carrefour in Torrevieja this is a lovely property with a nice size garden Ideal for you if you are looking to be close to all amenties was 99,000 euros now 75,000 euros call me James on 644 138 502 (96293) Refurbished top floor bungalow with private garden and private solarium in the Verdemars with sea view and golf views also we have refurbished to a high standard there is a lovely stream just a few mins walk away and the communtiy is a nice and clean with 2 communal pool now 124,999 euros call today Paul on 634 043 697 (96294)

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Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

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The ‘Really Original’ Supper Show

ampoverde Theatre Group presented a really original supper show at Phoenix Nights Bar that delighted the capacity audiences. Taking the starting point the year of the Battle of the Somme, some 100 years ago the group presented memories in song, images, dance and sketches of events over the last century. Thanks to work produced by Viva TV pictorial images supported the various elements of this show.

We were entertained by the Andrew Sisters, Max Miller regaled us with a string of funny stories that had the audience in stitches, we heard the story of little Albert being evacuated and had a visit from Dad’s Army. There was very funny sketch about the working of Bletchley Park incorporated war time issues with modern computer

scams and a hilarious account about Vera Lynn trying to negotiate a programme for entertaining the troops.

The audience really warmed to the Campoverde Dancers with their memories of Glenn Millar, the Bond movies and The Darling Buds of May. The show concluded with the songs Can’t You Feel My Love and Bring Him Home that linked all the elements of the show together, and were especially relevant as the two chosen charities to benefit for the three performances were the Royal British Legion and Help the Hero’s.

There was general agreement that Campoverde Theatre Group had produced a really affectionate and entertaining evening enjoyed by all.

by Jan Holden

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Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

Images from the Opening Ceremony of The 2016 Línea Directa National Championships

Favourite for the Ladies Singles title, on home turf, Lyn Hawkins

Peta R ho leading des out Quesa da

Seamus Moran showing Neil Reardon how it’s done.

for illor fia c n o Cou ism S h r t Tou rez wi lly e a Álv Donn b o B

It’s always a delight to see Tenerife at the championship

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EMERALD ISLE BOWLS

San Miguel Bowls Club

By Elwyn Morris The club returned from the weekend tour to Benalmadena and did not get as much game time in as we would have liked due to the lovely Spanish weather, or not, as the case was.

We got back down to business on Wed 11th with Vistabella Saxons visiting Emerald Isle in the VCL league and the EI came out on top 8-4 with shots of 106-76 Winners for EI were Pat Heaney singles men 2112, pairs Mike Veale and Frank Close 28-7 and rinks Y Mallerburn, B Eldred Dave Close and skip J Pooley 17-14 Thurs saw Emerald Isle Victors play Greenlands Gladiators away in a rearranged game. After a game of mixed fortunes the home side came out on top with a 8-6 win shots being 117-93 with each team taking 3 winning trips. For EI winners were Y Mallerburn R White F Close 27-14, B Foulds J Mullarkey and M Odell 17-16, D Rhodes P Heaney M Veale 16-14 Friday San Luis Wellingtons visited Emerald Isle to play the Victors. In the usual hard fought game the visitors came out on top 10-4 with EI winning one trip and drawing two. The winning trip was S Johnson P Heaney and M Veale 20-11, D Rhodes B Eldred and J Pooley drew 16-16 C Thomas C Ayling and G Odell drew 15-15 all The Vulcans were away at San Luis Hercules again another tough game with the home side coming out on top 10-4,,but a very tight aggregate score of SL 105 EI 104, Emerald Isle winners were M Whitelock L Fisher and M Stacey 33-12 and R Adams A Clasper and R Whitelock 22-18 Emerald Isle are pleased to welcome all the bowlers and spectators who will partake in the Linea Directa Nationals from 14th-28th. Good Luck to all players.

By Pat McEwan San Miguel Sheriffs won 8 points to 4 against Quesada Lions. in the VCL. Results were Ladies singles, Anita Brown 21-9: Mens singles Don Whitney 21-8: Pairs, Lynne Greenland and Stuart Denholm 16-14: Triples, Cliff Plaisted, Val & Chris Collier lost 18-22: Rinks, Tony Sansom, Linda Plaisted, Stuart Hemmings, Mary Dyer lost 11-29. Total shots 87 for San Miguel, 82 against.

In the SABA, The Moors had a great result against Quesada Blenheims at home winning 12-2.

Well done to Gail Willshire, Mary Dyer, Fred Willshire 22-16: Chris Parsons, Tom Dalgleish, Cliff Plaisted 19-12: Pete Masters, Tony Sansom, Cyril Medley 22-14: Mal Parsons, Bill Knight, Lee Sinclair 28-11: Allan Patterson, Brian & Lin Miller 16-10: Val Collier, Ian Rogers, Chris Collier lost 19-25.

Shots for 126, against 88.

San Miguel Deputies were at home to Monte Mar in the VCL, winning all but the mens singles.

The Christians were away to La Siesta coming away with 10 points, Anita Brown, Paul Hayward, John Marshall 19-10: Peter Ross, Maureen Turner, Alan Campbell 15-12: Sandy Hannan, Joe Getgood, Paul Thomas 30-9, Jim Jarvie, Nancy Campbell, Bob Donnelly 15-14. Well done team.

Entertainment was provided by Dave Mc when his shorts suddenly fell down!!! The jokes started flying from tie a knot in it (his belt had snapped) to get that measured!!!!

This week sees the start of the Spanish Nationals Good Luck to all our bowlers. All games are taking place at Emerald Isle, so roll up mornings will continue as usual.

WASPS are still on Wednesday afternoons, €5 for bowling, woods, shoes and tuition if required.

For further details on San Miguel Bowls Club, please contact our President Eileen Potts on telephone 966730376 or Secretary Pat McEwan on telephone 966714257.

La Siesta Bowls Club A good week for La Siesta with the highlight being an excellent VCL victory against Quesada Tigers winning on 4 rinks out of 5. Drew Gerrard and Anne-Marie Stevenson both winning their Singles and in a tight Pairs match Alan Barton and Pat Harman showing admirable resolve to get 2 on the final end to win 19-17.Our Rinks team of Sheila Chorley, Jean Hepehi, Dave Laverick and John Ball also won to give an overall score of 9762 and a points score of 10-2.

On Friday, The Wasps were at home to Top of the Table San Miguel Christians. A good morning of bowling but the final result a 10-4 loss. Winning rinks Barbara Cooper, Robert Heath and Jack Cooper 20-9 Sue Mahomet, Alan Barton, Pat Harman 17-9.Joy Gardiner, Bill and Sue Jordan came back from 12-6 down to lose by a single shot. An overall score of 82-97 and a points score of 4-10.

On Monday, The Hornets played a rearranged match against local rivals San Luis Hercules. In a tight fought game honours finished even with a 77 draw. The rink of Hilary Clarke, Arthur Kingsbury and John Ball gave the spectators the most excitement ending a 15-15 draw. Credit goes to all 6 bowlers on the rink in a match played in an excellent spirit.

Friday saw the Hornets travel to Horadada to play the Hawks who sat just behind them in the League Table. On a windy day the Hornets came away with an 8-6 win with a points score of 107-92. Our winning rinks were the ever consistent trio of Dawn and John Taylor with Harold Charleton 19-7 and Derek Souter, Ron Sheldon and Arthur Kingsbury 21-14. Great to see stalwarts of our club Derek and Ron winning. Draws for Jean James, Irene Laverick, John Clarke and for Dave Davies, Rab Logan and Dave Davies sealed the victory.

Monte Mar Bowls Club Sponsored by Avalon On Wednesday 4th May, we hosted La Siesta in the VCL Red Division. Despite leading by example, Team Captain, Ronnie Cairns winning 21 - 17 and our triples team of Keith Simpson, June Young and skip Gordon Fisher also winning 28 - 13, we lost the lady´s singles, the pairs and rinks and lost the shots 97 - 89 and the match by 8 points to 4.

On Friday 6th we hosted a Touring Team from Andalucia, La Posada. The bowling was extremely good, enjoyed by all, with the result not being particularly important.

The match was followed by an excellent lunch, where the wine flowed and was greatly enjoyed by all.

Monday 9th May Torros were away to San Miguel Moors. We won on 3 rinks but lost on shots by 88 to 105. The result was therefore 6 points to Torros and 8 points to San Miguel Moors. Well done to the winning teams, John Hunt, Dave Thomas and Rod Chamberlain,(16 - 12), Howie Williams, Jan Gatward and Val Hignet (16 - 14), Diane Horsington, John Caiger and Iain Sheridon (20 - 19).

On Wednesday12th May we played away in the VCL against San Miguel Mavericks. Our team captain, once again, took the lead by being the only winning rink on the day. Well done Ronnie Cairns winning the men´s singles (21 - 18).

Overall shots were Monte Mar 66 and San Miguel 109. The match result was therefore 2 points to Monte Mar and 10 points to San Miguel.

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

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GREENLANDS BOWLS CLUB There was a re-arranged match played on Thursday 12th, Greenlands Gladiators were at home to Emerald Isle Victors. The weather was superb and so was the bowling of both clubs.

Final result was as follows.........Total shots For - 117. Total shots against - 93. Points For - 8.

Points against - 6. Winning rinks were --Janet Webb, Dave Thompson, skip Dave Webb. 30 shots to 6. Jean Thompson, Florence Edwards, skip Mike Edwards. 23 shots to 15. Margaret Dewar, Chris Dewar, skip Dave Dudding. 20 shots to 12.

In the SABA league the Gladiators paid a visit to Vistabella Fairways. Final score 66 - 152.

Points for 0 - 14.

Country Bowls

By StJohn Broadhurst

Just two games to report on this week and first to play were the Herons who travelled to San Miguel on Monday, 9 May to play the Deputies in a VCL match. The Herons struggled on the long rinks and could only manage one win and a draw out of the five disciplines.

On Friday, 13 May the Badgers played hosts to Vistabella Greeners at the Valle in a SABA Hurricane league match. On a blustery and overcast morning the Badgers had the best of the exchanges, winning on four rinks as well as the long game. Winners this week were Brenda Jiggins, Derek Jiggins and John Rimmer 17-15. Pat Patton, Sheila Fletcher and Brian Patton 1816. Ben Noke, Stephen Fletcher and Phil Warrington 16-13. Del Gunning, Bryan Kirk and Peter Dix 30-5. Overall shots Badgers 106 (10 pts) Greeners 103 (4 pts).

No league games for the next two weeks while the Spanish Nationals take place so good luck to all our entrants as well as all everyone else taking part and let’s hope we can pick up some more silverware this year to add to the Men’s Triples that we won last year.

For more info about Country Bowls contact the Club at countrybowlsclub@gmail.com

SABA SUMMER TRIPLES - RESULTS SPITFIRE DIVISION Greenlands Gladiators 117 Shots 8 Pts Emerald Isle Victors 90 Shots 4 Pts Vistabella Fairways 152 Shots 14 Pts San Miguel Moors 126 Shots 12 Pts HURRICANE DIVISION La Siesta Wasps 82 Shots 4 Pts Country Bowls Badgers 106 Shots 10 Pts La Marina Pilots 122 Shots 10 Pts HARRIER DISVISION Quesada Lancasters 114 Shots 9 Pts Horadada Hawks 92 Shots 6 Pts San Luis Hercules 105 Shots 10 Pts

- FRIDAY 13 MAY

Emerald Isle Victors 93 Shots 6 Points San Luis Wellingtons 102 Shots 10 Points Greenlands Gladiators 66 Shots 0 Points Quesada Blenheims 88 Shots 2 Points San Miguel Christians 97 Shots 10 Points Vistabella Greeners 103 Shots 4 Points Mazarron Miners 105 Shots 4 Points El Rancho 83 Shots 5 Points La Siesta Hornets 107 Shots 8 Points Emerald Isle Vulcans 104 Shots 4 Points

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El Rancho Bowls Club A pretty good week for El Rancho, on wednesday morning in the VCL we were entertained by Horadada and took three rinks to Horadada’s one with the other drawn, that being the rinks. Jane Hamill and Jim Gracie both won their singles as did June Whitworth, Sheila Cooper and Carolyn Harris in the trips. Brian Harris and David Whitworth lost the pairs, but we have all achieved that, home or away, it only takes good opposition and not enough luck. A good result all round!

Friday found us away to Quesada Lancasters in the Saba League, with a drying mat and a changing wind requiring concentration at all times, we had great fun in good company. I particularly enjoyed the company of all five bowlers on our rink and although not all shots

went where intended and I am sure that was true of most rinks. Our novices performed well, as we expect and certainly seemed to enjoy the match. We came away with 2 rinks and 1 drawn, a good result away from home, but more importantly we had great fun.

John Cleal, Terry Buswell and Jim Gracie 17-19. Pam Harris, Graham Day and Malc Sykes 13-11. Ngaio Baldwin, Pete Baldwin and Richard Needham 10-23.

Tricia Elsam, Rob Clark and Jan Bright 7-34. Gill Bartlett, Barry Bright and Jim Taylor 17-17. Edward Elsam, Ann Taylor and Brian Harris 19-10. For membership details contact Brian Taylor on 965077093 or at briantaylor_es@yahoo.co.uk or Carolyn Harris on 966774316 or at elranchobowls.secretary@gmail.com

San Luis Bowls Club By Ros Holmes SABA LEAGUE: Monday 9th May. SL Wellingtons were home to Quesada Blenheims. On a rainy morning, and difficult conditions, Wellingtons lost out to Quesada. Points : 4-10. Shots: 83-102. Kath Reid, Ray Pollock, Phil Morrachan 22-9, Ann Holland, Derrick Cooper, Roy Cordell 17-11 SL Hercules, were away to La Siesta Hornets, in a rearranged game. The Hercules did well to draw the game. Points : 7-7 Shots: 104-99. Dennis Jackson, Ken Dullaway, Keith Lowry 25-12, Doug Beattie, Fay Beattie, Dave Tilley 23-12. Sue Ross, Harry Epsom, Ian Ross 15-15 VCL LEAGUE: Wednesday 11th May: SL Falcons were away to Greenland Jasmines. An excellent team performance, a convincing win all round. Points : 12-0 Shots : 107-71. Ladies Singles : Ann Holland, 21-8, Mens Singles: Colin Lingren 21-5, Pairs: Kath Reid, Guiseppe Galelli, 18-15, Trips: Pam Lockett, Ray Pollock,Noel Verity 23-18, Rinks: Shirley Verity, June Jones, Angie Goodfellow, Keith Jones 24-15 SL Kestrels- BYE. SABA LEAGUE : Friday 13th May: SL Wellingtons were away to Emerald Isle Victors. In blustery conditions, Wellingtons bowled very well, and won three

rinks, drew two rinks and took the shots. Points : 10-4 Shots : 102-90. Pam Lockett, June Jones, Keith Jones 23-16, Jean Parkes, Scott Malden, Paul Parkes 19-10, Ros Holmes, David Blackie, Tom Hill 18-13, Kath Reid, Ray Pollock, Phil Morrachan 15-15, Ann Holland, Derrick Cooper, Roy Cordell 16-16 SL Hercules, at home to Emerald Isle Vulcans . A very good result, taking four rinks and narrowly winning the shots. Points : 10-4 Shots: 105-104. Audrey Ford, Jim Dobbins, Charlie Marigold 20-13, Doug Beattie, Fay Beattie, Dave Tilley 19-13, Roger Inwards, Harry Epsom, Barry Edwards 19-11, Pat Tilley, Carol Lowry, Keith Lowry 17-12 EL CID 2 Wood Competition: 9th-11th May San Luis were well represented and the final was contested between Jo and Julien Pering and Sabrina and Russell Marks. Rather than playing another 18 ends, a 4 end play off was agreed, with the winnings being shared. Jo and Julian Pering won with the very last wood !

Good luck to all our bowlers competing in the Linea Directa Spanish Nationals.

Club Captain: David Blackie: dbinspain@yahoo.com SLBC website: www.sanluisbowls.byethost7.com

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Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

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Euro Bowling Torrevieja’s Male Team Crowned Spanish Champions!

In the last round of the Spanish FEB Championship Division, bowled in Madrid over the weekend, Euro Bowling Torrevieja managed to maintain their slender lead, finally increasing it to nine points and thereby clinching the gold medals. To to shut out Celta de Vigo and seal the deal, the Torry men needed at least 6 points from Oviedo in their last match. EBT won their match 10-0, while the Galician team only managed to draw 5-5 with Capital.

The final standings are as follows: Eurobowling Torrevieja Celta de Vigo Diagonal Barcelona Ilicitano Elche Capital Madrid Comarcal de Terrassa 300 Oviedo New Project Madrid

National Champions, Eurobowling Torrevieja

EBT´s top scorer was once again the legendary Norwegian threetime world champion Tore Torgersen who shattered pin racks at an average of 220.21 per game. Also the overall team average was outstanding, 211.40, more than eight points higher than runner-up Celta´s 202.94.

In EBT´s strong international team also bowled another two Norwegians, Patrick Gimmestad and Kjell Monsen, three Spaniards, Lorenzo Quereda, Juan José Carral Marqués and Manuel Pérez Puche, three Finns, Markku Määttä, Mika Määttä and Aki Jaakkola, and Belgian national Mats Maggi.

The top-category national championship is the first ever for Club Euro Bowling Torrevieja, this year celebrating their 10th year of existence.

In the ladies´ top division, bowled at Ozone Torrevieja, Capital Bowling of Madrid were proclaimed champion, while EBT secured

the sixth place, thereby avoiding relegation. The individual champion was EBT´s Norwegian reinforcement Heidi Thorstensen with a total average of 206.04.

Ladies´ final standings: Capital Bowling Ilicitano Elche Torrejon Madrid Alyco Madrid Levante Valencia Eurobowling Torrevieja Flecha 1 Barcelona

158 147 143 117 117 98 60

Heidi Thorstensen

stableford points Many thanks to our sponsors, our committee for their hard work in the background, to Mike Morris at Alfies Bar, to Mick ‘The Grip’ Reeves for his support and sponsorship, and to Mike Probert from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services for arranging our day.

Big Thankyou to Sandie Hall for organising the charity raffle and prizes And finally a massive thankyou to our illustrious president ‘Mr Ian Connell’, who’s hard work on the day and evening along with the donation of extra prizes, made for a fabulous Presidents day and evening Our next meeting of the year is for the ‘Geoff Thompson Perpetual Salver’ at Mar Menor on Thursday, 26th May. Guests are more than welcome. First tee time at 9.00 am. Should you want to play, please speak to Mike at Alfies Bar, La Ronda CC, Lomas de Cabo Roig or contact Gordon Cowan at alfiesgolfsociety@gmail.com.

PADDY’S POINT GOLF SOCIETY AT RODA Forty three members and guests turned out for the first competition of the new season, the Captain's Drive In. This year, for the first time, we have a Lady Captain and we wish her well for her year in office. A good crowd gathered at the first tee to see Myra 'drive in' and although she skirted with the out of bounds all was well with the ball well in play. The course was in great condition although the fast greens and strong wind made scoring difficult. Back at Paddy's we again enjoyed Rory and Hazel's hospitality, thank you both so much also a big thank you to your fantastic staff.

NEAREST THE CAPTAIN'S DRIVE - Elsie Cowie. LONGEST DRIVE - Alan Scott. NTP hole 2 - Ian Comaskey, hole 7 - Marie Fegan, hole 11 - Tom Gavin, hole 13 - Myra Coull. The two's pot was shared by Myra Coull, Ned Kelly and Arthur Lambe. BEST GUEST Ned Kelly 32pts.

3rd - Dave Tudor 32pts, 2nd Martin Fitzpatrick 34pts, WINNER Willie Crangle 34pts c/b.

Next Outing - Saurines de la Torre - Wednesday 8th June - McArthur Cup. Only 40 places so please get your name down asap. ANNUAL CLUB MEMBERSHIP NOW DUE, PLEASE PAY TO BAR. Photo shows winner Willie Crangle with Captain Myra Coull.

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The tournament took place on the courts at the Campoamor golf club. Perfect conditions greeted the 11 men and 5 women as they took to the courts to play 5 matches of 8 games with varying partners and opponents.

After 3 hours of play and some hard fought matches the results wereWOMEN 1st Jan McClaughlin 31pts 2nd Terrie Pridie 19pts

Congratulations to the winners. It was Gary's first win at Campoamor and Jan managed to keep her long winning run going with a commanding points total. Congratulations to visiting mother and son, Andrew and Terrie for their second places. Many thanks to all the competitors who made the day enjoyable and competitive.

Tennis club sessions, coaching sessions and tournaments are held on a weekly basis, throughout the year at Campoamor. If you are interested in these activities or in tennis and padel on the Costa Blanca, please contact Steve Durie tel 635061439 e-mail sdurie@hotmail.co.uk or see www.tennisandpadel.com.

Andrew, Jan, Steve, Gary and Terrie

Alfie’s Golf Society - Inaugural Presidents Cup 26 members and guests from Alfie's GS travelled to La Torre GC for the April meeting and the inaugural playing for the President’s Cup trophy. The course was in very good condition and lots of water made scoring very hard and points were hard earned.

As it was “Presidents Cup Day” it was decided by the president and committee to have extra prizes and rather than have the presentation back at Alfies bar to have an evening dinner with the formalities at “The Street Restaurant”, which proved to be a great success Our winner of the day who received the magnificent new trophy was Pavla Serakova on countback with 38 stableford points Second went to Tony Head with 38 points also.

Third place went to Stuart Armour with 35 points Best Guest went to Alan McAuliffe with 29

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Campoamor (golf) Tennis May Competition

MEN 1st Gary Clark 26pts 2nd Andrew Morgan 23pts

153 144 137 120 117 77 58 34

Presidents Cup Winner – Pavla Serakova

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‘MIKE PROBERT TALKS GOLF (Sponsored by Costa Blanca Green Fee Services).

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.

‘COMMON SENSE PUTTING’ The practise green is a place where golfers ‘assemble’ because they either enjoy being there or because they are about to play in a competition but do we see them practising to hole putts or do we see them practising how to miss?

As you all know, golf is often won and lost on the greens, so you must feel relaxed and confident when it is your time to putt and you must practise before you play using a sound common sense method that will give you the surety of mind required to do the job.

It is important to hit putts which go into the hole and this can be achieved by starting with four or five balls at a distance of no more than two feet but when you are confident at this distance you should move further away – 6 inches at a time – until regular misses occur, then you must move back closer to the hole.

Finish the practise session with a few long putts to help feel the ’pace’.

Fear is the emotion, which makes putting very difficult when the ’pressure’ is on and there is a simple method to help the golfer overcome these knee ‘trembling’ situations.

You must hold the putter very lightly, breathe out fully and then hit the ball without hesitation because you all know through bitter experience that at these times it is not easy to think straight, so the simpler the method the better chance of success.

There are some ‘interesting’ tests that you can do to improve your understanding of putting.

You are all aware that if you hit the ball too hard it will hit the hole and jump over the back, sometimes it will fall back in – but not when you need It, however find out how hard you can hit the ball without it going over because you may be able to forget about borrow on some short putts.

Another thing you can try is to putt with the toe or heel of the putter because putts come up short if hit this way, which can be very useful on fast downhill putts.

Spending your time practise putting has to be taken seriously and don’t be there to pass the time but be there to remind yourself that you can make the short ones because the long ones will then be so much easier to play.

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 currently available to you: Golf Course Alenda Alicante Altorreal Bonalba Don Cayo (Altea) Font Del Llop La Finca La Peraleja La Marquesa La Serena Las Colinas Las Ramblas Lo Romero Roda Villamartin Villaitana Poniente Vistabella

Price €110 €51 €98 €90 €88 €118 €110 €140 €37 €86 €83 €90 €48 €110 €102 €55 €92

Comments Two Players and Buggy Sgle Green Fee and Buggy (bf 9.30am) Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Green Fees and Buggy Four Players and Two Buggies Single Green Fee (Weekends) Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee and Buggy Two Players and Buggy

Deal of the Week: Las Pinaillas (Albacete) €85 each for 2 rounds of golf with buggies and B&B accommodation on shared room basis in the 3* Castilla hotel. Don Cayo only €80 for 2 players and buggy on Sunday's only.

For Bookings and more information contact Mike direct on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931 or at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting reference LEADER. Quotation of the Week “Putts get real difficult the day they hand out the money” - Lee Trevino

Tuesday 17th May - Sunday 22nd May, 2016

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Prieto goal wraps up Torry’s season Torry visited El Fornas for comments made to the Stadium, home of Acero, match officials. With both for the last div 3 fixture of Vicente and Suarez suspend15/16 season, and came ed, the team virtually picked away with a hard earned itself. Defender Matej point. It's been a season of injured himself during the highs and lows, culminating warm up, resulting in first in an 11th place finish (52 choice keeper Miguel CD Acero ......................1 replacing Prieto on 88 mins, points), whereas their opponents ended up rock bottom, CD Torrevieja ...............1 and Sanchez coming on for some 17 points from safety, Chupe on 67 mins. meaning relegation for the first time since 2011.

Torry lineup: Kike, Luis Carlos, Quintero, Javi The match itself was a tale of 2 halves, Torry Selvas, Martin, Burguillos, Higon, Carrasco, dominating the 1st, Acero pressing hard in the Prieto (Miguel), Chupe (Sanchez), Lewis 2nd, denied only by the brilliance of reserve keeper Kike.

He came to his sides rescue time and time again, fully deserving man of the match accolade. A Chupe assist provided Prieto the opportunity to shoot under the diving Oumar on 11 minutes, following a well worked move. Parity was restored on 53 mins, courtesy of a Borja Garcia cross which was converted by Seral. For the first time this season, not one Torry player received a card (red or yellow), but manager Pedro was sent from the dugout on 89 mins by referee Ignacio Cavanos, presumably

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La Marina Golf Society For the first time this year ,we seem to have been jinxed as we were hit by a series of mishaps. as a result of which we ended up playing a singles competition.

Winner of the Silver group was Captain Jimmy Scott with a very creditable 37 points and the prize in the Gold Group went to Les Pirie with 33points.

Nearest the pins were won by Brian Stewart, Graeme Buchanan , Alan Craig and Louvain Smith.

The 2's Pot was won by returning star Eric Taylor who banked 43 Euros.

This leads to the next mishap when it was discovered that due to an oversight, no golf balls were available for the prizewinners but all accepted gracefully that they would be available at the next meeting.

So to the final mishap of the day when I discovered that the photograph I had taken had disappeared from my I-Pad!!

Hopefully ,all will be well at our next meeting at Font del Llop on 26th May, first tee 10.a.m. at a cost of 40 Euros.

Just a note to wish Royal Marines Trophy Sponsor ,Eric Edwards , well whilst he is undergoing hospital treatment and hope to see him participating again soon.

Carp - R - Us Club News On Thursday the 12th of May our anglers fished a one off match for the Clubs Carp Cup at the El Bosquet complex. This event was for the biggest single Carp caught on the day. The fishing was hampered by a very strong cross wind. The winner with a Carp of 2.40kg was Andy Foden. In second place was Graham Leadley, third was Pete Kerr and in fourth spot Steve Fell.

The first round of the Summer series will be held on the river Segura in Murcia town centre on Thursday the 19th of May with pegs at 8.00am., and we will be fishing from 9.00 to 2.00pm.

On Thursday the 26th of May we are fishing our Pairs match at the

Cadena Sunrise Bowling - 11 May Gi Gi’s Hookers Sol Amigo’s S***T Happens Pin Pushers Alley Cats Fair Play

6-2 6-2 2-6 2-6 0-8 6-2

Cherry B’s Pinfall Wizards The Bandits Sunrise Colegas Alley Gators 999’s

Top Performers

Ladies

Gents

Hi/Game Hi/Game+H/Cap Hi/Series Hi/Series+H/Cap

Sandy Bell 200 Sandy Bell 242 Sandy Bell 478 Sandy Bell 604 Maz Rust 604

Barry Tolson 208 Dave Cartwright 248 John Fowles 538 Andy Sargent 646

S***T Happens Sol Amigo’s Gi Gi’s Hookers Sunrise Colegas Alley Gators Pin Pushers Fair Play Alley Cats Pinfall Wizards 999’s The Bandits Cherry B’s

P W 87 83 87 72 87 68 87 68 87 62 87 60 87 56 87 51 87 50 87 45 87 40 87 38

D 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 0

L 33 43 47 48 53 56 59 64 65 71 76 78

Tot Gms 66664 87 66196 87 65773 87 66009 87 65984 87 65362 87 64822 87 64398 87 65174 87 64123 87 63017 87 62360 87

Av Hi-G Hi-S 766 903 2455 760 893 2484 756 873 2391 758 874 2448 758 864 2425 751 836 2409 745 861 2427 740 852 2368 749 826 2425 737 852 2368 724 822 2294 716 840 2340

Pts 166 145 137 136 125 120 113 103 101 90 80 76

Pantano de Beniarres- the draw for the pairs will take place on the bank.

The Clubs next Quiz night will be on Tuesday the 31st of May, starting at 7.30pm. The cost is 1 Euro per person and teams of up to 6 can take part.

The next Sunday meeting will not be until the 5th of June, as there are 5 Sundays in May. The Committee meets at 10.30am and this is followed by the General meeting at 11.00. The Clubs home is at the Bar El Alto La Dolores which is to be found just off the N332 between La Mata and Guardamar. To find the Clubs web site go to www.carp-r-us.weebly.- here you will find full details of the Club.

SUDUKO SOLUTION

24

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