Costa Blanca Leader Edition 701

No 701

Monday 29th January - Sunday 4th February, 2018

Tel: 637 227 385

Pr omoting R emembr ance in Pilar he Municipal Council of Pilar de la Horadada has always been a great supporter of the Remembrance Service held by the RBL’s Orihuela Costa and District Branch in the small Mil Palmeras Catholic church.

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Councillors and the mayor

have attended on every single occasion, since it was first inaugurated over ten years ago in 2007.

The council was instrumental in obtaining permission for the branch to use the church and it was also very supportive when an approach was first made by the RBL to create a Remembrance Garden.

Continued on Page 2

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Continued From Page One Promoting Remembrance As the branch has developed, and the numbers attending the service have grown, the significance of the Garden has become much more important.

There are now many more wreaths, floral tributes and poppies being laid on a regular basis and the names of many deceased branch members are also affixed to the Garden rails, with the garden now becoming a place of much more meaning to the families of those who have passed.

Recognised as such by the mayor of Pilar de la Horadada, Ignacia Ramos, the Branch Chairman, Kevin Reardon, and the Remembrance Day organiser, Eddie Coleman, were both invited to the town Hall last week where they discussed with him and Councillor Pilar Navarro, the possible improvements that could be made to both the garden and to the organisation of the service itself.

They were accompanied by local businesswoman Francisca Samper Navarro, who has supported the RBL in the town since it was first formed, and who

regularly acts as branch liaison with the local authorities.

At the meeting the mayor outlined plans for the expansion of the garden which he also suggested be planted year round with poppies and with other popular flowers and shrubs. Whilst the garden would remain under the control of the RBL he said that it would be maintained by staff from the municipal council.

The mayor also offered to replace the sound system that is used during the Remembrance Service and to provide a video service that would be able to relay pictures of the service to televisions that he would have placed outside.

Following the agreement of both parties a plan of the future garden will now be designed by the parks department for approval by the branch committee after which work will get underway in readiness for the 2018 service.

Front Page Photo: Councillor Pilar Maria Samper Navarro with Mayor Ignacia Ramos and Eddie Coleman of the RBL.

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Independence far from reality for people with disabilities

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any people with disabilities in the EU still live in institutions. They risk being isolated, marginalised and prevented from living a full, independent life, and face worse conditions than people without disabilities. This calls for systematic changes in the way support for people with disabilities is organised and funded, new reports from the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) reveal. They suggest what people with disabilities need from the EU and its Member States to enjoy living independently with community-based support, simply taking public transport or shopping.

“Too often people with disabilities are prevented from having choice and control over their lives,” says FRA Director Michael O’Flaherty. “While the EU and its Member States have committed themselves to enabling people to enjoy their right to live independently, in practice realities are falling short. These reports serve as a wake-up call to guide policy makers to ensure this right is fully implemented across the EU.” The ‘From institutions to community living’ reports explore different aspects of the move away from institutions towards independent and community living, a right enshrined in the UN’s Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). They look at: deinstitutionalisation plans and commitments; funding; and the impact this is having on people with disabilities.

The reports show that many Member States have deinstitutionalisation strategies which commit

them to enabling independent living for all people with disabilities. EU structural funds have also made the transition from institutions to community-based support a condition for receiving funding.

However, strategies often lack adequate funding, clear timeframes and targets, and fail to properly involve disabled persons’ organisations, hampering progress. In addition, many Member States still finance institutions.

Coupled with a lack of coordination among the many different national and local authorities that offer support, people with disabilities commonly live in worse conditions than people without disabilities. This is especially true if they have severe impairments. This often leaves them feeling excluded and lacking control over their lives.

This points to the need to establish clear, properly resourced plans in terms of funding and responsibilities for supporting the closure of institutions and enabling community-based living, such as providing a range of good quality personal assistance options. Adequate community support should exist to support people with disabilities as they leave institutions.

Making everyday services like transport, healthcare and education accessible is therefore essential.

Involving people with disabilities and their representative organisations in decision making and monitoring progress is also key to ensuring their needs are addressed so they can enjoy their right to live independently.

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Costa Residents call the Orihuela budget a “sham”

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fter what the Federation of Associations of Orihuela Costa reportedly called a total fiasco in relation to the budget of 2016, the municipal government (Popular PartyCiudadanos) has again launched a proposal for citizens to submit ideas and vote on schemes for the 2018 budget.

They are presenting this as a big, generous, democratic initiative. However, reading the details immediately makes it clear that this is not the case.

Orihuela citizens registered on the Padron are invited to make proposals equal to €660,000. Last year’s budget was some €85,000,000. On this basis, the initiative relates to 0.78% of the prospective budget for 2018. Hardly a ground breaking initiative.

What is more, for this purpose, the €660,000 total is to be distributed in equal shares to the 11 districts which have been designated to cover the whole municipality. €60,000 each district means citizens are invited to consider directly 0.08% of the prospective budget.

Orihuela Costa with some 28,000 registered residents, equal to nearly 40% of the total registered population of Orihuela, has 2 of the 11 districts, some 18% of the total of 11. Correspondingly its 2 districts will receive some 18% of the €660,000.

The real taxpaying population of the coast is probably nearer 50% of the total population.

It is obvious from these facts that discrimination against Orihuela Costa which contributes some 60% of the Town Hall income is inbuilt and institutionalised.

When it comes to real money, the discrimination against the coast is blatant. In 2017 the total amount available for investments was some €12.8 million. Orihuela Costa will receive some €2 million, less than 20%.

This discrimination is historic. It is not surprising that Orihuela Costa has no cultural or social centre and no proper professionally staffed Library, only a Reading Point with second hand books staffed by volunteers. The city has 3 Libraries which provide opportunities

for study for young people as well as leisure reading. Recently, Orihuela Town Hall allocated some €400,000 to revamp the abandoned bullring which will provide the city with a third venue for cultural events, in addition to the Teatro Circo and the Lonja. Other recent investment decisions benefiting the city include restoring the Rubalcaba palace (€1.9m), the Industrial Estate (€1.6m), and the Paseo Andennes (0.8m).

The city and the coast have more or less equal populations of registered residents but nowhere near an equal share of municipal facilities.

The big question on which the voice of Orihuela Costa residents should be heard is the distribution of the estimated €14.5 million which the Town Hall will obtain this year from the further sale of municipally owned land, mainly of course in Orihuela Costa. If the coast does not receive at least 40% of this sum, the failure to provide it with a fair and democratic allocation of the Town Hall’s funds will be demonstrable and Orihuela Costa will be able to draw the appropriate political conclusions.

The citizens’ participation exercise just launched will have little concrete importance. However, it provides a smokescreen for the current Popular Party-Ciudadanos (Citizens Party) government to hide the continuing, blatant discrimination against Orihuela Costa which they continue to perpetuate.

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Monday 29th January - Sunday 4th February, 2018

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British Consul to visit Rojales and Urbanisation La Marina Sarah-Jane Morris, the British Consul in Alicante, will be holding open meetings in both Rojales and La Marina in February where she will be talking to British nationals about any concerns they have relating to Brexit.

She will explain the recent agreements reached between the UK government and the remaining European countries on the subject of healthcare, pensions, voting in local elections and onward movement within the EU. Following her address she is then expected to take questions.

The Rojales meeting will take place on Monday 12 February in the Capitol theatre in Rojales starting at 12 noon while in San Fulgencio it will take place a day later, on 13 February, starting at 1pm in the Social centre, La Marina Urbanization, behind the Police Station.

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VOX take their message to the people of Torrevieja VOX is a right-wing and Christian democratic political party founded in Spain just over 4 years ago by former members of the Partido Popular (PP).

Still largely unknown, but now beginning to establish itself in this part of Spain, its members were out on the streets in many municipalities on Saturday, including Torrevieja, where supporters distributed over three thousand brochures in just two hours The party is keen to ensure that residents learn about the party itself, what it stands for and its policies so on Saturday VOX had information tables located in Plaza de la Constitucion and Paseo Vistalegre where Carolina Vígara Garcia and Juan Carlos Ramos, VOX coordinators in Torrevieja, explained the party’s organisation both at national level and more locally in Torrevieja.

Last December VOX held their first Provincial Coordination Days in Madrid in order to explain to activists how the party could be publicised and it’s membership developed in all the provinces of Spain. On Saturday the team of VOX TORREVIEJA was able to outline the progress that the party has made in the city as it looks forward to the municipal elections in 2019.

The president of VOX, Santiago Abascal, said that "VOX is growing because we say what millions of people think. We are the party of the Spaniards who believe that the separatist parties must be outlawed, that the borders must be controlled, that the inheritance tax must be eliminated, and so many other things that the parties currently in Congress reject ".

Sarah-Jane Morris

Javier Ortega Smith, Secretary General of VOX, said that "We need to reach the last corner of Spain and turn VOX into the best and most effective instrument working in the service of the Spanish people, we cannot and we will not fail".www.voxespana.es

Quesada games for Scotland

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he latest of a long line of International Bowls teams arrived on the southern Costa Blanca during the coming week in preparation for their appearance at a major competition.

The Scottish Para team will be hosted by Quesada Bowls Club as they ready their two teams for the 2018 Commonwealth Games to be held on Queensland’s Gold Coast in April.

Para bowler Irene Edgar and her Director, David Thomas will be part of Team Scotland having won silver in Glasgow in the B2/B3 Mixed Pairs (players with a visual impairment). Robert Barr, directed by Sarah Jane Ewing, will partner Irene with the pair having already experienced success on the Gold Coast greens, taking silver at the 2016 Eight Nations Championships.

In the B6/B7/B8 Open Triples (players with a physical disability), Michael Simpson is the sole returning member of the team that took 4th place in Glasgow. He is joined by two time World Championship competitor and the reigning Scottish Indoor champion, Garry Brown.

The first match for the Scotland Para Squad will be at Quesada Bowls Club on Sunday morning

Over 3000 brochures were distributed in Torrevieja in two hours

Calisthenics Park in Aguamarina

Team Scotland, who will be arriving for their week-long stay on Saturday, will be bringing five bowlers plus their attendants. They will be playing a triple and a pair at each of the following venues: Sunday 4th February: Games at Quesada BC morning and afternoon at 10.00 a.m. and 2.30 p.m.

Monday 5th February: One game at El Rancho commencing 2.30 p.m.

Tuesday 6th February: Two games at QBC at 10.00 a.m. and 2.30 p.m Wednesday 7th February: Two games at El Rancho, 10.00 a.m. and 2.30 p.m.

Thursday 8th February: At El Rancho, morning training and team dynamics session with Sports psychologist. 10.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.

Afternoon at QBC Full game 2.30 p.m. start.

Entry to all of the venues is absolutely free so do go along and support the Spanish team and enjoy a rare opportunity to see some world class bowling played on local greens.

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posted a photo on Facebook last week showing a number of holes that had been dug in the Aguamarina Children’s Park by Municipal workmen. I wondered what their purpose might be!

The following day they were all filled with concrete.

Im delighted to say that I now have the answer and it is something that many of us have been requesting for some time. The people of Aguamarina are about to get a long overdue Calisthenics area where members of the public, more especially those of a certain age, will be able to practise gentle exercise.

The word calisthenics comes from the ancient Greek words kalos, which means "perfect" or "good" (to emphasise the aesthetic pleasure that derives from the perfection of the human body), and sthenos, meaning "strength" (great mental strength, courage, strength and determination). It is the art of using one's body weight and qualities of inertia as a means to develop one's physique.

Although the development aspect might be rather too late for many of us the exercise equipment should nevertheless encourage individuals to pay a little more attention to their body.

Municipal sources have confirmed that they are going to install this "calisthenics park", which will be used by people to practice physical exercises with their own body weight.

For the safety of some of my ‘larger’ colleagues, I just hope the concrete has properly set before they install the equipment.

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British woman found dead Former Mayor Hernández Mateo cleared of violating civil rights in roadside drainage ditch T

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he body of a 39 year old woman, carrying a British passport, was found on Saturday lying dead in a drainage ditch along the San Javier and Torreagüera road.

The police are linking her death to the owner of a burnt-out car found a kilometre from the body who has since been arrested.

Sources suggest that the arrested car owner refused to give a statement to local police after being arrested, and has since been released pending an ongoing investigation, however Spanish Civil Guard officers have so far refused to make an official comment.

One of the lines of enquiry is that the woman was the subject of a hit and run with the woman either knocked over a fence and into the ditch by the force of the car's impact — or she was physically lifted into the The ditch where the body ditch by a hit-and-run driver. was found by a passerby Agents have carefully inspected the scene of the incident, at kilometre 2 of the San Javier-Torreagüera road, and they are said to have found braking marks that could point to an accident.

A spokesman for the emergency services said: "Two ambulances were sent to the scene along with local police and Civil Guard officers at 00.40hrs on Sunday morning. Firefighters were also informed.

orrevieja’s No 2 Criminal Court has acquitted the former mayor of Torrevieja, Pedro Hernández Mateo. The judge threw out charges brought against him for the violation of civil rights after he failed to hold 13 plenary sessions between 2003 and 2007 whilst he was the mayor.

The complaint was presented in 2006 by the current mayor, José Manuel Dolón, who at the time was an opposition councillor He argued the fact that the plenary meetings were not held which prevented the right of participation in the public affairs of the town by opposition councillors and by members of the public.

According to the ruling, Hernández Mateo, who is currently serving a sentence of 11

years of disqualification from public office, for rigging a public contract, failed to comply with the Law, which states that a municipality larger than 20,000 residents, is obliged to carry out a monthly plenary meeting.

The judge said that the absence of these meetings may constitute "a lack of respect for the opposition, but he fails to see it as a violation of civil rights.

As such he felt that there are not sufficient grounds to find him guilty of a criminal offence, particularly as the plenary meetings all fell during major holiday periods.

He also maintained that this type of action could have been punished by the general public at the polls had they wished to do so..

The acquittal has come after

Pedro Hernández Mateo was cleared of all charges

more than a decade of procedure but it may still be appealed.

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Monday 29th January - Sunday 4th February, 2018

Hyundai Kona a refreshing addition to compact SUV lineup

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A Jaguar fit for a Princess A

notable Jaguar XJ-S Cabriolet with royal connections will be one of a record number of stunning retro cars from the halcyon heydays of motoring appearing at next month’s London Classic Car Show at ExCeL London (15-18 February).

Princess Diana driving the XJS with young Princes in the rear. The unique Jaguar will be on show at the 2018 London Classic Car Show. Credit PA Images.

Over 200 people attended the local launch which was held at Autofima Elche

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utofima Elche have launched the All-New Hyundai Kona Small SUV in Spain. The event took place at the Autofima Elche, Avenida Crevillente, on Friday evening in the presence of over 200 dealers, invited press and members of the public.

Described as “the most attractive SUV on the market today, the Kona is already being well received in Spain. For good reason too it is clearly one of the most distinctive compact SUVs on the market.

It is very attractively designed, it carries an impressive level of specification, and the pricing is very competitive, starting at just €13,990.

The car is also considered to be among safest in the B-SUV segment having achieved the maximum five-star safety rating from the independent vehicle assessment organisation Euro NCAP. This result marks out the new B-SUV as one of the safest vehicles in the segment, convincing in all four categories: Adult Occupant, Child Occupant, Pedestrian and Safety Assist.

“The five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP for the All-New KONA proves that the newest SUV fulfils the highest standards for the safety of our customers,” said Thomas A. Schmid, Chief Operating Officer at Hyundai Motor Europe. “The top result demonstrates that Hyundai Motor not only offers technology-driven and innovative solutions, but also makes them easily accessible to everyone.”

To comply with the highest European safety standards, the All-New KONA features a long list of the latest active safety and driving assistance features: Hyundai SmartSense™.

The Lane Keep Assist (LKA) contributed to the five-star rating by passing all tests successfully. The system alerts the driver in unsafe movements at over 37mph by sensing the car’s position. It sounds an alarm before the car moves over white lines on the road and warns the driver acoustically and visually before inducing corrective steering to guide the vehicle back to a safe position.

The Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) is an advanced

active safety feature available in the All-New KONA that alerts drivers to emergency situations, braking autonomously if required.

Using front radar and camera sensors, AEB operates in three stages. Initially warning the driver visually and acoustically, it controls the brake according to the collision danger stage and applies maximum braking force to avoid a collision or minimise damage when a collision is unavoidable. The system is activated when a vehicle or pedestrian is sensed in front of the car, operating at speeds of 5 mph or above.

Besides the technologies tested by Euro NCAP, the All-New KONA offers High-Beam Assist (HBA) with Static Low Beam Assist, Driver Attention Alert (DAA), Blind-Spot Detection (BSD) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCCA).

As well as being equipped with the Hyundai SmartSense™ active safety technologies, the Hyundai KONA also offers true SUV capability, thanks to the option of four-wheel drive. The car’s progressive character is further underlined by its modern connectivity features. It is being launched throughout Europe starting this quarter.

The car is now available to test drive at Autofima Elche, Avenida Crevillente 57 or in Torrevieja at Avenida Cortes Valencianas 42.

Tel.: 965 431 601, Email: gerencia.autofima@redhyundai.com All cars are offered with 5 years warranty

While many of the 700+ wonderful automotive icons on display will have their own incredible histories, few if any will have better stories to tell than this totally one-off 150mph Jaguar – a sportscar which was fashioned especially for Diana, Princess of Wales.

Dating back to 1983 this famous XJ-SC was not only one of the most photographed cars of its era but was also totally unique, built to the Princess’ own bespoke specification.

While the other 5,012 cabriolets created in Coventry between 1983 and 1988 were all hedonistic two-seater speedsters, this stately XJ-SC (reg E763KYX) was uniquely fitted with two small rear seats just so the young Princes William and Harry could ride along with their mother and her bodyguard. It is generally accepted that the Princess enjoyed driving her custom-made Jag so much that her protection officer was often relegated to the front passenger seat!

The Princess was regularly seen driving this majestic model from 1987 to 1991. Then, when the two Princes outgrew their small rear seats, she sold it to the Jaguar Heritage Trust, an educational charity established to preserve the legacy of Jaguar for the nation, in exchange for a contribution to one of her own charitable causes.

“The London Classic Car Show is littered with cars boasting their own remarkable histories,” said Bas Bungish, Event Director. “There are F1 single-seaters raced in period by world champions such as Graham Hill and Michael Schumacher and getaway cars involved in staking out The Great Train Robbery. Princess Diana’s very own Jaguar is another of these evocative exhibits which will certainly conjure up many fond recollections among our visitors who really appreciate nostalgia.

Classic car owners, collectors, experts and enthusiasts wanting to attend the 2018 London Classic Car Show can take advantage of significant discounts on offer when booking in advance. If purchased now, adult admission costs just £25 (£30 on the door) and a range of upgraded Premium and Family Tickets are also available online.

Moreover, all tickets also include entry to the London Classic Car Show’s sister show Historic Motorsport International, which celebrates the UK’s leading role in all areas of historic motor sport.

Full details can be found on the show’s official website – thelondonclassiccarshow.co.uk.

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A true choral specacular Approximately 2,500 euro was raised for Debra, the Butterfly Children charity.

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hen Melody Makers International and Orihuela Costa Male Voice Choir come together in a concert, supporting Debra, the Butterfly Children charity, in this instance at the Orihuela Costa Resort Hotel, La Zenia, Saturday January 27th., it will almost certainly be a case of standing room only, with the "House Full" sign, prominently on display, and the good people of the Costa Blanca, again, did not disappoint.

Two "Houses" 2pm and 8pm, were royally entertained, with a musical mix from the pen of Sigmund Romberg, Irving Berlin, Franz

Lehar, Puccini and a splendid arrangement by Brymer, of Freddy Mercury's "Bohemian Rhapsody".

Eric Berg, taking to the stage. This year was no exception, with the dynamic duo becoming " A Couple of Swells" from Easter Parade.

Special mention perhaps in this mixed bag of wonderful music, would be to Rebecca Holt with the Barry & Robin Gibb classic, "A Woman in Love", "The Grand March" from Aida, and again by the full company, "The Battle Hymn Of The Republic". Classic songs from "White Horse Inn", "The Merry Widow" and "Les Miserables" kept Saturday's audience well entertained.

Director Nigel Hopkins was delighted to let Saturday's "House" know, that in 10 years of bringing shows like today's concert to the Costa Blanca, a total of fifty thousand euros has been raised and presented to charity. Well done sir. The standing ovation given to this Saturday's "Choral Spectacular", was well deserved.

No concert by Nigel would be complete without Jane Atkinson and

Approximately â‚Ź2,500 was raised for Debra, the Butterfly Children charity. By Robert W Barnes.

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Mayor speaks out on behalf of San Javier Airport taxis At a meeting held last Tuesday at the Town Hall with the President of the Association of taxi drivers José Luis Pascual Hernández, the mayor of San Javier, José Miguel Luengo, has given his unconditional support to their demands in ensuring that they are able to operate at Corvera airport when it opens later in the year.

Aussie dollar celebrates with a high T

his report is written every Friday and today it’s Australia Day! To celebrate the Australian Dollar touched 1.77 vs the pound this week, its highest level for 6 weeks.

Nearer to home world leaders are currently attending the World Economic Forum in Davos. Of all the places to hold a global gathering, a small ski resort in the Swiss Alps connected to The Matterhorn by the Glacier Express train seems obvious really....

Although the strength of the Swiss Franc has eroded the once buoyant ski holiday tour operator market as it’s now very exclusive (expensive). All eyes are on Donald Trump who said that he wants

to see a strong US dollar which directly contradicted the US Treasury Secretary who said a weaker dollar was preferable!

The pound had a good week due to rises in both employment and wage growth in the UK. It reached 1.43 vs the US dollar on Thursday and nearly touched 1.15 vs the euro (1.1497). The euro made 3 year highs vs the US Dollar at 1.25.

Buying currency is always nerve wracking, trying to guess if it’s the right time to do it. If you do need to buy a large amount of, say, euros or dollars it is often a good strategy is to buy currency in chunks or sections. At the moment, with the pound having made some good gains, it is certainly worth considering this strategy. You will end up with an average rate rather than jumping in all at one go. www.thecurrencyexchange.co.uk

At the meeting, the mayor, who was accompanied by the Councilor of Transport, Antonio Martinez, told the president of the Union Radio Taxi Mar Menor that he has already requested a meeting with Murcia’s Counsellor of the Presidency and Development, Pedro Rivera, at which he will ask for confirmation that San Javier taxi drivers will be able to operate at the new regional airport "since their livelihoods will be ruined by the closure of the San Javier airport".

Pascual thanked the mayor for his support in the defence of their demands that he hopes will guarantee at least most of the 18 licenses with which association members will be able to freely operate at the new airport.

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Almost 6,500 homes under construction in Province Construction has now increased for the 5th consecutive year

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ccording to data produced by the Association of Quantity Surveyors, Technical Architects and Building Engineers of Alicante, and despite a somewhat hesitant start to the year, Alicante closed 2017 with 6,414 new homes under construction, representing an increase of 32.8% over 2016, the best record since 2008, This is the fifth consecutive year of improvement which puts the activity much closer to the figure that experts believe would be necessary to meet the needs of the growing population, estimated at 10,000 homes per year.

However, it is still foreign demand that dictates the number of properties sold, as evidenced by the fact that most new developments are concentrated in coastal areas, but for the first time, there are also

signs of recovery also in the interior’s industrial municipalities, although they are still very weak as well as in the Province’s two largest cities, Elche and Alicante But Orihuela still leads the way with 1,100 homes started in 2017, followed by Alicante, with 779; Torrevieja, with 662; and Pilar de la Horadada, with 658. In Elche, 415 houses were started; in Santa Pola, 319; and in Guardamar, 264.

In Elche, which also includes Crevillent and Santa Pola, the volume of housing starts skyrocketed 142%, from 309 to 748; while in the Alicante area formed by San Vicent, Sant Joan, El Campello, Mutxamel and Agost, in addition to the capital - the figure practically doubled from 585 to 1,136, according to the figures.

A winner with with Tasha The winners of Tasha’s hamper which raised 340 euros toward her appeal were Liesl and Richard from Blue Moon Solutions.

Richard was a part of the Xmas bike ride which raised 1700 euros as they pedalled from La Marina to the Tasha Christmas Appeal venue in Playa Flamenca.

On arriving at Alfonso’s Restaurant, after Richard had taken a drink or two, and a well-deserved rest, the couple supported the event by purchasing their tickets and were rewarded with the 1st prize.

Penny Brown with Richard

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Saving with HELP Vega Baja Charity Everyone is familiar with the concept of placing their loose change in donation boxes which are seen around bars and shops or being shaken by volunteers in shopping centres etc. Always keen to try something new to raise funds, HELP Vega Baja have come up with the idea of offering people special boxes that they can use in their own home and save their change for the charity.

President, Michele Masson said “we have had our red donation boxes in various businesses around the area for many years now and we are extremely grateful for the donations that we receive.

Recently one of our volunteers brought in a large bottle which she had been filling for a couple of years with pennies and also at one of our Christmas Appeal collection points we received a box from someone which was bursting with change. This gave us the idea of offering people the opportunity to support us by providing them with a box to fill with coins. As a thank you, everyone who joins in will be entered in to a prize draw which we will hold twice a year”.

HELP Vega Baja have been supporting people in need for over 36 years in the Vega Baja area and Michele stated that in 2018 the charity had donated over 30,500 euros to good causes and individuals and said “everyone at the charity is extremely proud of the fact that we have been able to help so many good causes and we aim to continue to offer not only the information and advice that we are well known for, but also to continue supporting those who find themselves in need of our help including of course other charities. Our relationship with social services means that we are often contacted when they are aware of particular families who are struggling and need our help. We have published a full list of the donations we made throughout 2017 and these can be found on our Facebook page and website. Obviously, we owe a debt of gratitude to everyone within the community who continue to support us whenever they can and our team of volunteers without whom

we would be unable to continue our work”.

If you would like to find out more about becoming a “Charity Support Saver” or volunteering with HELP Vega Baja, please contact Richard Garland at their San Miguel Centre on 966 723 733, email office@helpvegabaja.com or visit the HELP Vega Baja Facebook page.

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Iceland lead the way with Torrevieja’s Poppy Appeal Much is written during the event about the efforts of branch members as they sell their poppies in support of the RBL Poppy Appeal.

Branches are quick to thank the public for the generosity and the support that they provide with their donations which, here in Spain, seem to increase year on year.

Of course the involvement of the public is paramount but so too is the support provided by those many venues, businesses and organisations, that allow the RBL onto their premises to “rattle their tins,” one of which is the Iceland Store in Torrevieja, where in November the amazing sum of €1877-79 was raised in just a single week.

Not to be forgotten, Poppy Organiser Mrs Carol Stockwell, and the President of Torrevieja Branch of Royal British Legion, Gillian Burden, popped into the Iceland store last week to say an especial thanks to John, the Manager of the Store, and his staff, who helped make the appeal in Torrevieja such a success.

Rascals are Recruiting for their New Show

The Rascals Show Group has an exciting new show and we are actively recruiting new members to help us with every aspect of the show. Whatever your interest we will be able to use whatever skills you may have. We are looking for singers, dancers, back stage helpers or just people who support our work in producing fantastic variety shows that raise money for local charities.

The Rascals is a great group of people who meet on Monday and Thursday mornings at Sacos Bar, El Limonar, Torrevieja at 11 o clock to rehearse for their shows. Joining Rascals will give you a great hobby and enable you to make new friends and will certainly enhance your social life. We are a very social group and we meet together not only for rehearsals but for meals and nights out.

Research has shown that singing with a group is really beneficial for your well being. Performing on stage also gives you a real adrenaline high and

knowing that you are helping to help local charities is just the icing on the cake.

We have a great new show, A Crazy Little Thing Called Love full of well known, well loved songs that are really enjoyable to sing and perform. No matter what type of voice you have singing with a group will definitively develop your musical skills.

No matter what you have been told in the past everyone can sing, we all have the ability to hold a tune, especially given practice. We would love to have some more dancers. For those of you who hate going to the gym dance is a great way to keep fit in a very social group.

We would really love to welcome new members so just come along on Monday or Thursday morning and give us a trail. We look forward to introducing you to a great new interest with a fun loving group of people.

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Monday 29th January - Sunday 4th February, 2018

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 7 Idler; 8 Cleanse; 9 Trouble; 10 Odour; 12 Obsequious; 15 Freebooter; 18 Smash; 19 Extreme; 21 Discord; 22 Antic.

DOWN: 1 Fisticuffs; 2 Allow; 3 Grab; 4 Scheme; 5 Resolute; 6 Unbosom; 11 Resilience; 13 Babyhood; 14 Because; 16 Overdo; 17 Petty; 20 Tear.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 7 Loose; 8 Look-out; 9 Fine leg; 10 Needs; 12 All the rage; 15 In good time; 18 Glove; 19 Rooster; 21 Bellows; 22 Round.

DOWN: 1 Ill-feeling; 2 Wound; 3 Bell; 4 Slight; 5 Moonbeam; 6 Foreman; 11 Sleigh-ride; 13 Loosebox; 14 Ignoble; 16 Thrush; 17 Stout; 20 Ogre.

ACROSS 1.

Helper (9) 8.

Transgress (3) 9.

Unprotected (11) 11. Dark (7) 12. Dish (5) 13. Pass (6) 15. Gadget (6) 17. Of them (5) 18. Elucidate (7) 20. Inconsiderate (11) 22. Meadow (3) 23. Content (9)

DOWN 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

10.

11.

14.

16.

19.

21.

Take to court (3) Because (5) Disinclined (6) Quiver (7) Murder (11) Indifference (9) Rudimentary (11) Sight (9) Grave (7) Loftiness (6) Ways (5) Observe (3)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z

Solution on Page 22

Pumpernickel. 12. Andy Warhol. 13.

Ambrosia.

14.

Scaramouche ("Scaramouche, Scaramouche will you do the fandango" from Bohemian Rhapsody). 15. Seven answers: a. The Magnificent Seven, b. The Thomas Crown Affair, c. The Great Escape, d. The Blob, e.

The Cincinnati Kid, f. The Towering Inferno, g. The Sand Pebbles. 16. Mars Attacks. 17. Vulcans. 18. Holding your

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

13. The name of which fabled food means 'immortal' when translated?

14. What is the name of a 17th century Italian clown in a popular song from the band Queen?

15. Each of the following are the initials of film titles starring Steve McQueen. Name the film. a.

T M S - b. T T C A - c. T G E - d. T B - e. T C K f. T T I - g. T S P 16. Slim Whitman music is used to destroy the invading aliens in which film?

17. Which extraterrestrial species experience an overpowering mating drive every 7 years?

18. The world record in 2008 for temporary APNEA was 17 minutes, 4.4 seconds. What is temporary apnea?

19. According to legend, Bran castle was the home of which shady character?

20. The name of which type of cloud translated means 'lock of hair'? a. Stratus, b. Cumulus, c.

Cirrus.

21. What was the most lucrative export, quite literally an end product, for many west coast South American countries in the 19th century?

22. George Mallory, who some claim may have been the first man to conquer Mt Everest, is credited with which famous three word reply?

23. Who was the first woman to hit the charts with the song 'Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)'?

24. Which island country is the most westerly part of Africa?

25. The registration plate for which famous vehicle reads "SCV 1"?

1. Harlow, one extra point for 'Jean' "Her hair is Harlow gold...." 2. Money (That's what I want) (Thanks to Hadrian for correcting this question). 3. Bad Finger. 4. a.

Everybody Loves Somebody. 5. a. Enrico Caruso. 6. S. 7. 1968. Dec 24th 1968 during the Apollo 8 mission. 8. Los Angeles.

9. Greenland. 10. Antarctic (13,802,000 sq. km) North America (2,049,000 sq. km.) and Europe (115,000 sq. km.). 11.

ACROSS 1. They make rings round ships’ instruments (9) 8. Any instrumental recital shows this, initially (3) 9. But these soldiers were not associated with Hurricanes orTornadoes! (5-6) 11. Kept turning to the other way in trade arrangement (7) 12. See 21 Down 13. It’s hot and spicy, but sounding just the opposite! (6) 15. The terror of being right in the battle (6) 17. Five were still in debt, but made a solemn promise (5) 18. Agreement for tailless aircraft (7) 20. Bill will be operating again as a result of this (2-9) 22. Letter, we hear, more than a yard long (3) 23. Give us notes to arrange in a sustained way (9)

1. In Kim Carnes hit song 'Bette Davis Eyes', Bette's gold hair is compared to which 1930s s e x symbol? One extra point for her first name DOWN 2. Tamla Motown founder Berry Gordy co-wrote 2 & 10Dn. Amazing position of the astronaut! (3,2,4,5) the lyrics for the company's first hit record in 3. Let in to make a confession (5) 1959. What was the name of this successful 4. The pace for street journey by car (6) monetary hit single?

5. He obstructs one found in a bottle-neck (7) 3. Which 'naughty digit' was the first band signed 6. Does it finally decide who gets the part? (7-4) by the Beatles for their new Apple Record label in 1968?

7. A scheme the editor put on the screen (9) 4. Which song title appears on Dean Martin's 10. See 2 Down grave stone? a. Everybody Loves Somebody, b.

11. Got better insurance protection in a rush (9) That's Amore, c. Memories Are Made Of This 14. Fifty computers used by men who want to get a rise! (7) 5. Who was the first person to earn a million dol16. Fights for the remnants (6) lars through record sales? a. Enrico Caruso, b.

19. As part of the solution it reactivated a chemical (5) Frank Sinatra, c. Bing Crosby 6. The quiescent Princess Aurora is better known 21 & 12Ac. The clear rate for fishing equipment? (3,5) to both children and adults under which other name?

7. In which year did millions of people around the world first see the dark side of the moon live on television?

8. Off the coast of which cherubic mega city is the island paradise Catalina located?

9. Natives of which deceivingly named land call their home Kalaallit Nunaat?

CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE? 10. Measured in square kilometres, which three Fill in the grid so that continents are covered with the most ice? 1 point every row, every column, for each correct answer and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

11. Which healthy and chewy food that originated in Germany means 'devils fart'?

12. Which 'avant garde' celebrity coined the QUIZ ANSWERS expression "15 minutes of fame"? breath. 19. Count Dracula. 20. c. Cirrus.

21. Guano or bird droppings. (Important in the making of both fertilizer and explosives) 22. "Because it's there." In reply to the question "Why do you want to climb Mount Everest?" 23. Cher. It was the second single by American singer-actress from her second studio album. 24. Cape Verde 25.

The 'Popemobile' or 'Papamobile'.

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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.

Almond trees on the hilltops of Gran Canaria

J

ust Nuts about Almonds

We know that Spring has arrived in the Canary Islands when we see the first flush of flowers on the many magnificent almond trees that embrace the islands.

These beautiful flowers, which begin to open after Christmas, create a magnificent and rich landscape of colour. At the end of January and the beginning of February, almond trees demonstrate their full glory, encouraging celebrations in many towns and villages.

Canarians never need much of an excuse to have a party, so this spectacle of natural beauty to celebrate the beginning of a New Year, doesn’t need much encouragement.

The Canary Islands were the crossroads between Europe and the Americas for many years. As a result, the islands can boast a rich and varied cuisine, offering a unique blend of flavours that is influenced by Africa, Europe and America.

Without going into too much detail here, there is accumulating genetic evidence which suggests that much of the material used for horticulture in the Americas came directly from the Canary Islands.

These islands had centuries of trade with Berbers, Phoenicians, and

other ethnicities in Morocco, but were only under Spanish control for about 50 years before Columbus. Many believe that the booming almond trade in the United States originates from the Canary Islands.

Many people do not give much thought to almonds, but they have always been a most important part of the cuisine of the Canary Islands. Almond products are many and varied, and used in biscuits and cakes. Almonds can also be mashed into a paste that can be spread on bread - a bit like peanut butter, but without the butter.

Almond milk, almond drinks, almond wine and marzipan, as well as almond cakes can easily be found in shops and markets on the islands for most of the year.

Almond trees are found on the greener parts of the Canary Islands.

In Puntagorda, on the island of La Palma, a beautiful festival is held at the end of January or beginning of February each year. Parts of

15

b y Bar rie Mahoney

Gran Canaria and Tenerife become spectacular gardens of pink and white blossom, particularly around Santiago del Teide and the slopes of Vilaflor in Tenerife.

In Gran Canaria, a visit to the Almond Flower Festival in the village of Tejeda is always a must-visit destination at this time of the year. The festival has been celebrated in this beautiful village since 1972, which acts as a reminder of the importance of almonds to the baking industry of the islands. Dancing and songs against the spectacular and colourful backdrop of the almond trees can be an unforgettable experience.

Crowds of people make their way singing and dancing to native guitar music on the narrow road leading to the church. Many dress in national costume for the event and there are opportunities to sample the local wine and almond based products.

There are also opportunities to watch the almonds being cracked and maybe hear almond pickers speaking about their trade.

Spain is the world’s second largest almond producer after the United States, and with a large proportion produced in the Canary Islands. It is no wonder that these nuts are so highly prized, and well worth having a party to celebrate. It is also worth remembering where the nuts come from.

Available in paperback from Amazon, Waterstones and all good bookshops, as well as on Amazon Kindle.

Join me on Facebook: @barrie.mahoney

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Airport Transfers 8 seater minibus with driver available for airport transfers. Tel: 637 227 385

Car and Vehicle Sales The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2015 Ford CMax Diesel which is on Special Offer priced at just 16,500 euro. Come along to our showroom in Elche and see our vast range of used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers.

The biggest and best for price, choice and quality.

Social and Clubs The next monthly meeing of the Orihuela Costa Branch of the Royal British Legion will be on 15 Feb at the Olympia Restaurant in Mil Palmeras starting at 7.30pm. The Torrevieja Branch meets at the Casa Ventura in San Luis at 7.30 pm on the 2nd Friday while the La Marina/Gran Alacant Branch meets on the 1st Monday at The London Bar, behind Dial Prix in Gran Alacant at 6pm. Everyone Welcome.

Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you. Our aim is to assist with problem solving for

the over 50’s and promote their well-being. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Residential Home Visiting Team.

You will visit people who live in a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee either in a wheelchair or walking. If you think you can help Age Concern in this respect call into our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887.

Or you can email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es 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.

Contact our head office on 965 328 794 or email: charitycentre helpathomecb@gmail.com.

TORREVIEJA Official Liverpool FC Supporters' Club, Costa Blanca. - Why not join us at Kennedy's Pub, Playa Los Locos, to watch the games? www.lfc-spain.com.

Curious about work of Samaritans in Spain? Interested in becoming

Monday 29th January - Sunday 4th February, 2018

a listener? Have a few hours a week to help with the charity shop, fundraising or admin? To find out more, come and join us for refreshments and a chat at our Centre in the Punta Marina Shopping Centre, by the Punta Prima roundabout, on the N332.

(Volunteer positions are unpaid but expenses can be claimed). www.samaritansinspain.com Email: janeatsams@outlook.com The Orihuela Costa Drop In Centre is now fully open in C/Cipres, Lomas de Cabo Roig, where we can offer you a full range of activities every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday including music, language classes, drawing and painting, sewing, general information, bereavement advice and much more.

Further info is available at: oc.communitycare@gmail.com

Churches and Services La Siesta Evangelical Church hold services each Sunday and everyone is welcome. Our 11am Services are held every 2nd and 4th Sunday in the month (and on the 5th Sunday, if this applies.)

On the 1st and 3rd Sunday’s our Services are at 9.30 am. Our choir sings at our 11 am Services and there is also a Sunday School, Stepping Stones, on these Sundays. We welcome residents, visitors and children. For information see our website www.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org or phone Pastor Keith on 666 180 108.

Job Opportunity Top Neumaticos are seeking a Fully Trained Mechanic for their Los Dolses Depot. Must speak English. Call 645 425 457 for further information

Personal Torrevieja Brazilian mature lady.

The best massage, relax, tantra, anti-stress. I also do body and intimate waxing, manicures, pedicures, and facial cleansing and rejuvenation. Me and my silky hands are the perfect combination. Call Victoria on 687 131 005.

Torrevieja. Shirley - the best massage. Tanned, young Latina

beauty! Stunning figure, great breasts. I welcome you alone in my sexy lingerie. By appointment please.655 677 738 Sexy, elegant Spanish lady. Playa Flamenca. Punta Prima. Private house. Erotic massage. All services. From €40. Call Ana on 657 603 495. Speak English.

Male and female Viagra, Cialis, Cialis Kamagra jellies mail order cash on delivery call 604 385 476 viagra4you19@gmail.com

Items For Sale Why not use the power of the Leader to sell your unwanted goods or to advertise your business. Classified advertising is available on these pages from just 5 euro per entry. Email office@theleader.info

Property for Sale Country Finca in Redovan - 2 buildings on a good size plot, each with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Plot size 500 sq mtrs.

Excellent decorative order and is sold furnished. Beamed ceilings in lounge. Euro 170,500. Ref: 000076. Tel 617 537 866 San Miguel de Salinas - A really nice first floor 3 bed apartment in a very well looked after community, just a short walk to supermarkets, restaurants, and bars.

Fitted wardrobes in all bedrooms, main bedroom having walk in wardrobe. Euro 79,995 Ref: 000075. Tel 617 537 866 Detached Villa Torremendo - A fantastic 2 bed countryside home on a 5000sqm plot. Constructed from wood and in perfect condition with countryside and lake views. All modern services, connected to electricity, water, mains sewerage. Also a separate selfcontained cabin. Euro 149,995 Ref: 000074. Tel 617 537 866 This three bedroom, two bathroom mid-terrace townhouse is within walking distance of the lively La Fuente Commercial Centre with its fabulous selection of bars and restaurants. It is also close to supermarkets and just a short drive to beautiful, award-winning Blue Flag sandy beaches.

Access to lovely communal gar-

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dens and a large communal swimming pool. Euro 79,995 Ref 000057. Tel 617 537 866 Redovan - Surrounded by lemon groves and fields of artichokes and broccoli, this three bed, two bathroom detached villa is situated on a plot of 600m2. It has its own 10m x 5m private swimming pool and a separate garage with access to a rooftop solarium. The property is distributed on one level with a tiled patio area leads into the main living and dining areas. Private Pool, Fully Furnished, Stunning views, Private Garden. Euro 210,000 Ref 000058. Tel 617 537 866 Sierra de Orihuela - This fabulous detached property is on a plot of 1.900m2 and has breath-taking views of the Sierra de Orihuela mountain range. The total built area is 135m2 which is distributed across four double bedrooms, two bathrooms, a lounge / dining area, and a modern openplan kitchen. Covered car port, manicured gardens and a private swimming pool. Fully Furnished.

Private Garden. Kennels and a chicken coup. Euro 249,995 Ref 00059. Tel 617 537 866 San Miguel de Salinas - Modern 3 bedroom house in the sought after area of Balcon de la Costa.

South facing and in a quiet area.

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The house has been refurbished to a very high standard and ready to move into. Large paved patio with high walls for your privacy, ideal for barbecuing or just relaxing in the sun. Fully Furnished.

Private balconies.

Stunning views. Air-Cond. Euro 79,500 Ref 000060. Tel 617 537 866 San Miguel de Salinas - A nice ground floor apartment in the heart of San Miguel de Salinas. It has 2 good size bedrooms with fitted wardrobes. The 2nd bedroom has an enclosed galeria for extra storage. Good size lounge / diner and open plan kitchen. The family bathroom comes with a 4 piece suite and shower enclosure.

Popular Spanish village. Fully furnished. Communal Pool.

Large Terrace. Euro 52,995 Ref 000061. Tel 617 537 866 Detached Villa Torremendo. 2 bed countryside home on 5000sqm plot.

Constructed from wood and in perfect condition with countryside and lake views. All modern services, connected to electricity, water, mains sewerage. There is also a separate self-contained cabin. Private pool, fully airconditioned, part furnished, ideal for conservationist €149,995 ref: 000074. Tel 617 537 866

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San Luis Bowls Club

with Sheila Cammack A mixed week; sunshine to a howling gale! Monday 22nd: Klingons v SM Pulsars; 10-4, shots 96-92. Winners: Bob White, Sheila Cammack, Giuseppe Galelli 18-14, Kath Reid, Neil Morrison, Ian Kenyon 14-13, Lynne Morris, Ray Clarke, Tom Hill 23-10, Pat Bird, Ray Pollock, Graham Bird 19-16.

Trekkers v GL Sycamores; 12-2, shots 148-75. Winners: Shirley Verity, Jo & Jules Pering 35-8, Marina Beardsall, Les Bedford, Brian Pocock 33-10, Irene Everett, Mike Regan, Vic Slater 26-10, Allen Bowen, Peter Fuller, Suzi Cooper 24-10, Helen Hammond, Barry Roseveare, Scott Malden 18-15.

Vulcans v LS Pioneers; 10-4, 104 shots-95. Winners: Ray Watmough, Derek Barker, Dave Steadman 15-11, Pat Tilley, Sue Ross, Babs Shand 17-16, James Wright, Dave Tilley, Geoff Shand 22-20, Ian Ross, Chris Jackson, Brenda Brown 23-11.

Wednesday 24th Winter League v Montemar; 12-0, shots 130-47.

Winners: Lynne Morris, June Jones, Peter McEneany, Keith Jones 19-9, Shirley Verity, Ray Clarke, Jules Pering, Russell Marks 32-8, Kath Reid, Neil Morrison, Scott Malden, Ian Kenyon 30-8, William Holtham, Keith Phillips, Giuseppe Galelli, Sabrina Marks 26-7, Irene Everett, Ann Holland, Brian Pocock, Tom Hill 21-9, Lynne Morris, June Jones, Peter McEneany, Keith Jones 21-15.

FED 4’s: Ospreys v VB Vikings; 5-3, shots 51-51. Winners: Allen Bowen, Sheila Cammack, Roy Cordell, Keith Jones 17-16, Pam Lockett, Ann Holland, Suzi Cooper, Scott Malden 19-15.

Condors v LS Parakeets, 6-2, 50shots-47. Winners: Bill Webb, Margaret & Ray Clarke, Brian Pocock 24-8, Mags Haines, Janet McEneany, Jan Pocock, Barry Edwards 18-10.

Bazas v LS Hoopoes, 4-4, 46shots-51. Winners: Pat Tilley, Mary Fromson, Ralph Jones, Charlie Marigold 17-16, Tony Davies, Cas Blay, Dave Tilley, Drew Russell 22-11.

Friday 26th Lions v ER Mustangs; 7-7, shots 87-107. Winners: Pam Lockett, June & Keith Jones 16-16, Bob White, Sheila Cammack, Giuseppe Galelli 16-14, Kath Reid, Neil Morrison, Ian Kenyon 1413, Lynne Morris, Ray Clarke, Tom Hill 18-17.

Tigers v LM Merlins; 8-6, 92shots-85. Winners: Margaret Roseveare, Mags Haines, Derrick Cooper 20-10, Jan Pocock, Les Bedford, Brian Pocock 25-13, Helen Hammond, Barry Roseveare, Scott Malden 15-8.

Leopards v GL Cedars; 8-6, shots 105-112. Winners: Ian Ross, Cas Blay, Babs Shand 19-17, Ray Watmough, Marie Henly, Dave Steadman 26-11, James Wright, Kath Waywell, Bob Bromley16-15, Chris Jackson, Sue Ross, Drew Russell 22-20.

Pumas v CB Geckos; 4-10, 75-126. Winners: Roger Inwards, Chris Lythe, Phil Hasler 18-15, Chris Phillips, Lyndon Johnson, Danny McErlean 18-17. www.sanluisbowls.byethost7.com June Jones, Capt: 691 90 37 73.

Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club Sponsored by the Belfry, The Pub, Bowling Abroad and Avalon Monday January 15th: Monte Mar Matadors v San Miguel Meteors A tough match away to the Meteors, winning on one rink, Keith Simpson, Val Hignett and skip Colin Armitage. Shots Matadors 86 – 126 Meteors. Points Matadors 2 – 12 Meteors Wednesday January 17th: Monte Mar v San Miguel. Away to San Miguel. Winning 2 rinks: Jan Soars, Danny King, Howie Williams and skip Alan Asberry, Lesley Jones, Bill Judd and skip Ron Jones.

Friday January 19th: Monte Mar Toreadors v San Luis Golds - A close match between the Toreadors and Gold with both teams winning on three rinks. The Golds won a tight game by the shots. Well done our winning teams of Carol Packer, Howie Williams and skip Graham Smythe, Ian Hamilton, Bill Errington and skip John Hunt, Sheila Roberts, Chris Harding and skip Joan Harding. Shots Toreadors 93 – 101 Golds, Points Toreadors 6 – 8 Golds Tuesday January 23rd: Fed Fours - Monte Mar Lords v Quesada

Horadada Bowls Club by Barry Evans The South Alicante home game against San Luis Vulcans, which was postponed due to bad weather, was played last Saturday. Horadada managed to win on five rinks thus gaining 12 pts with an overall score of 101-84. Our winning rinks were, John Goddard, Bryan Eatough and Roy Thompson 17 – 14, Peter Davis, Mick Kirby and Barry Evans 20 – 15, Jenny Davis, Les Davis and Alan Miller 18 – 9, Irene Graham, Wayne Jackson and John Bailey 18 – 13, George Burrage, Jack Linehan and Fred Trigwell 14 – 12 On Monday, again in the South Alicante league, we played top of the table Mazarron away. Not such a good result this time, only getting 4 pts in a 86-98 defeat. Winning rinks were, Margaret O’Dell, Jack Linehan and Barry Evans 18 – 15, Jennie Davis, Linda Hier and Jeff Hier 24 – 13, The highlight of this game was a hot-shot got by our rink so congrats to Jenny, Linda and Jeff[eat your heart out Peter!]

On Tuesday we played our 2nd Fed fours game against Greenlands at home. This was a very close result but we managed to get 6 points in a 57 to 54 shot win. The rink scores were, Carol Linehan, Peter Davis, Fred Trigwell and Barry Evans 18 – 15, Linda Hier, John Goddard, Wayne Osguthorpe and Jeff Hier 19 – 18, Pat Patton, Dennis Wade, Jack Linehan and Brian Patton 20 – 21

Leopards - A well-played match against Quesada Leopards. Monte Mar Lords won on all rinks. A very good result Monte Mar, to many names to mention so a big well done. Shots Monte Mar Lords 72–38 Quesada Leopards, Pts Monte Mar Lords 8 – 0 Quesada Leopards Wednesday January 24th: Winter League Monte Mar v San Luis Another hard game away to a strong San Luis team. After the game we all enjoyed a drink and a meal. Shots Monte Mar 47 – 130 San Luis. Points Monte Mar 0 – 12 Friday January 26th: Monte Mar Matadors v Emerald Isle Cavaliers - At home to the Cavaliers it was a difficult game for all in the wind.

The Matadors won on one rink well done to Harry Dobson, Lynne Armitage and skip Colin Armitage. Shots: Matadors 82 – 129 Cavaliers, Points Matadors 2 – 12 Cavaliers 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.

Emerald Isle Bowls

with Elwyn Morris

The week opened with a visit by La Marina Explores to the EI and the home team won by 11-3 with an aggregate of 111-97, winners were M Riley L Vincent J Rimmer 20-8, P Heaney, S Johnson I Brewster 20-16, D Jones G Odell M Odell 20-17,C Parsons K Jolliffe D Gerrard 18-17 and a draw for S Wickens M Veale J Mulloy 18-18 The Neptunes travelled to El Rancho Pintos and were beaten 8-6 aggregate of 95-109, winners were C Ayling S Watson J Mullarkey 19-10, S Kavanagh E Morris B Kavanagh 21-14, L Burns D Rhodes, A Burns 20-15,, The Moonrakers played at home against La Marina Pathfinders and lost 2-12, aggregate of 73-128 winners were, A Ede E Brookes T Kelly 22-17 Wed saw San Miguel visit the Isle and the result was a 6-6 draw with visitors taking aggregate 77-71, winners were P Heaney S Johnson M Thomas I Brewster 17-9, J Pooley D Jones B Eldred C Lindgren 19-15, M Riley P Coffey M Veale M Stacey 15-11, Emerald Isle Won the Berleen game V Cameron E Morris B Doran S Watson 22-12

The match had a very exciting finish since our rink skipped by Jeff got a 4 on the last end to win by 1 while our rink skipped by Brian lost a 3 on the last end to lose by 1. Congrats to all participants.

Thursday the Leprechauns played a very strong San Miguel Cherokees at home and finished up at 4-4 aggregate 56-53, Winners were S Kavanagh E Morris T Kelly B Kavanagh 21-15

On Friday we had another home game against Quesada Swifts.

Again this was a closely fought match in very difficult conditions.

But this time the result went the wrong way and we got 6 points in a 93 – 97 shot defeat. Our winning rinks were, Les Davis, Mick Kirby and Alan Miller 21 – 12, Pat Patton, Fred Trigwell and Brian Patton 18 – 14, Dennis Wade, Wayne Osguthorpe and Barry Evans 19 – 12

Friday saw The Cavaliers travel to Monte Mar Mateodores, and had a fine 12-2 win aggregate 129-82, and the winners were P Coffey M Odell J Rimmer 41-7,C Thomas M Thomas C Lindgren 27-17, M Whitelock S Johnson M Stacey 17-10,M Riley G Odell A M Stevenson 17-16, P Willicott L Vincent J Mulloy 18-12

We have a bye next Monday so let’s hope the wind dies down before our next match on Thursday.

The Claymores played at home against San Miguel Cougars, and were beaten 4-10, aggregate of 81-116,winners were S Kavanagh E Morris B Kavanagh 20-16, C Ayling C Warner J Mullarkey 18-17

Greenlands Bowls Club By Dave Webb the Sycamores were at home to San Luis Trekkers. Final score -total shots for – 75, against -- 148. Points for - 2. against - 12.

Winning rink -- Vic Young, Ron Stansfield, Tony Hodges. -- 22 shots to 12.

In the Discovery Division the Maples were away to Quesada Diamonds, final scores were -- total shots for - 93. Against - 98.

Points for - 6. against - 8. Winning rinks -- Sheila Stead, Jim Wilcock, Barry Collins. -- 18 shots to 9. David Fryatt, Mary Lockley, Marilyn Fryatt. -- 28 shots to 10. Janet Webb, Zoe Wilcock, Mel Brown. -- 19 shots to 17.

In the Winter league we made the long trek up to BBC. although some of us found the fast rinks a problem not all of us did and so we were happy with the final outcome. Final score -- Total shots for 70. Against - 113. Points for - 4. against - 8. Winning rinks were Brian Tomlin, Zoe Wilcock, Jim Wilcock, Barry Collins. -- 26 shots to 18. Sheila Stead, Margaret Dewar, Dave Thompson, Mel Brown.

-- 19 shots to 12.

In Division C the Cedars were away to San Luis Leopards. final score - Total shots for - - 112. against -- 105. Points for - 6 against -8. Winning rinks were Janet Bliss, John Dowell, Neville Pulfer. - 24 shots to 13. Jean Giddings, Margaret Hirst, Dave Giddings. -- 25 shots to 9.

In Division B the Oaks were at home to La Siesta, final score - total shots for - 108. against -- 102. Points for -- 10 against -- 4. winning rinks - Sheila Stead, Margaret Stephens, Dave Thompson. - 18 shots to 16. Janet Webb, Mary Lockley, Mrilyn Fryatt. -- 17 shots to 16. Phil Lockley, Val Duchart, Mike Kelly. -- 22 shots to 14. Dave Fryatt, Mike Keating, Barry Collins. -- 21 shots to 11. For all enquiries please Telephone Haley on 966 84 4399.

San Miguel Bowls Club

By Pat McEwan

In the SABA Enterprise league, the PULSARS were at home to San Luis Klingons winning on 2 rinks, gaining 4 points. Well played by Pat McEwan, Jan Farmer, Dave McEwan 18-13: Ken Hope, Sue Milner, Ron Nairey 21-9. Shots were close 92 to 96.

The METEORS were away to Vistabella Drivers only managing to win one rink. A very close game by Margaret Patterson, Ian Rogers, Gary Raby winning 19-18, well done. Shots were 87 to 119.

The WINTER LEAGUE managed to draw 6 all, away at Emerald Isle winning on 2 rinks but getting the shots 77 to 71. Well played

by Alan Patterson, Dave Greenland, Gail & Fred Willshire 21-9; Cliff Plaisted, Len Rudge, Gary Raby, Lynn Greenland 21-11.

In the Southern League the COUGARS had a great result winning 10 points to 4 away at Emerald Isle against the Claymores. Very well played by Barry Jones, Jim Jarvie, Mick Rogers 16-9: Bob Nesbitt, Bob Graham, Rosamond Stockell 21-10: Stan North, Bill Knight, Bob Donnelly 21-10: Bill Reeves, Val Davis, Alan Dobie 25-14. Barbara Scottherns teams had hard lines losing by 1 shot.

Shots were 116 to San Miguel 81 to Emerald Isle.

The JAGUARS also had a good result winning 10-4 at home against Vistabella Lanzadors. Great bowling by Paul Thomas, Ron Nairey, Alan Campbell 34-11; Alan Booth, Dave Young, John Staden 19-11; Ann Young, Pat & Dave McEwan 19-16; Paul Hayward, Janet Thomas, Eddie Cowan 19-11. Total shots 114 to SM, 89 to VB. It was a bitter cold wind and Eddie Cowan was wearing shorts!!!!!!

A reminder for your diary; On Tuesday 13th February, there will be no club morning due to the Premier 20 Semi Final being played - the Club morning has been changed to Wednesday 14th.

Get your names down for the Valentines Competition, drawn pairs, on the 10th & 11th February.

The four nations takes place on the 11th February, Scotland V Wales at La Siesta and England V Ireland at San Luis, morning games.

Club mornings are still taking place on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays 0945 for 1015. WASPS on Wednesday afternoons, come along for 1.30, €5 for an afternoons bowling, use of shoes and woods, and tuition if required.

For further information on San Miguel Bowls Club, please contact the President Rosamond Stockell, telephone 965329778 or Secretary Pat McEwan, telephone 966714257.

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La Siesta Bowls Club By Rod Edgerton Catch up time in the SABA Leagues after last week’s waterlogging. In the Enterprise Division the Apollos entertained MonteMar Matadors and had a close win sharing the rinks but winning the points with a 111-100 scoreline, so 8 points to La Siesta.

Wins for the home team came from Irene Laverick, Bill Jordan and Sue Jordan 2811,Pat Moore, Pat Harman and Val Dalton 19-11 and Ramsey Sinclair, Irene Mangan and Alex Morrice 18-15.The Apollos followed up with a home win against San Miguel Pulsars by 110 shots to 100 therefore getting 10 points. Best winners were Dave Davies with Mike and Florence Edwards 24-8 whilst Dawn and John Taylor with Brian Fraser collected 13 shots on the last 5 ends to win 20 -14.Not to be outdone Ramsey Sinclair with Irene Mangan and Alex Morrice picked up 12 shots on the final 6 ends to win 20-14.

In the Voyager Division the Pioneers had a disappointing result away against the San Luis Vulcans losing the match by 104 shots to 95 with wins on two rinks from Barbara Cooper, Alan Ralph and Pat Reilly 19-12 and in a close rink Hilary Clarke, Trish Reilly and with an excellent performance from skip Vic Mahomet won 1815.So 4 points to the Pioneers. Better news in the home match against Country Bowls Flamingos with a 12 points to 2 win by 102 shots to 76.Good wins for Gary Randall, Sid Gallup and John Porter 23-18 and Wendy Ralph, Joe Kocsis and Rab Logan 21-10.

In the The Fed 4’s the Hoopoes drew their match with a 4-4 point score. The shots score was always a close affair but La Siesta won by 51 shots to 46. Good win for Barbara Coooper, Faye Beattie, Val Dalton and Bill Jordan 24-7 being the highlight for the Hoopoes. The Parakeets were away at San Luis Condors and lost 50 shots to 47 despite an excellent victory from the rink of Derek Smith, Tony Campbell, Irene Mangan and Alex Morrice who won by 29-8 collecting the 2 points for the Parakeets.

The Winter League team made the long journey to Javea Green and managed to win on the rink of Faye Beattie, Trish Reilly and Mike and Florence Edwards by 16-15 picking up 2 points for La Siesta. The overall shots being 118 to 61 to the home side.

The Blues were away at Greenlands Oaks in the B Division losing the match by 108 shots to 102 picking up 4 point to the Oaks 10.Winners for the Blues were Jo Elkin with Derek Biggs and Mike Edwards 23-12 and Joy and Brian Gardiner with Jean Cooper winning 22-18.

The Golds, in the C Division, stretched their winning run to 7 matches with a home victory against El Rancho Broncos by 133 shots to 77 taking 10 points to the Broncos 4.Three of the winning rinks had convincing wins. Dot and Joe Kocsis with Rab Logan leading the way by 36-6 whilst Barbara Cooper, Tony Campbell and Johnnie Ryder won 31-10.Not to be outdone Wendy Ralph, Tom Heaslewood and Gordon Dall finished strongly to win 25-12.A closer affair was the rink of Hilary Clarke, Sheila Millward and Vic Mahomet who won the final two ends for a 21-17 win.

La Marina Bowls Club By Barry Latham Two different results gave two different reactions to begin this week. In the Enterprise Division the Explorers wended their way over to the Emerald Isle to play the Titans and they were far too strong for us with the final result being 11-3 to them. We did have one rink that drew and they were Peter Parsons, Kathy Manning and Maureen Kidd. Alex Whyte, Mike Smith and Margaret McLaughlin did very well to win 21-15 and in the end the overall score was quite close.

The Drivers at home vs San Miguel Meteors were more than happy with their result of five wins. K Hardy, B Pointon & C Thorpe 26-7.

F Barclay, B Corbishly & L Barber 16-11. D Leggatt, Mo & Martin Foulcer 21-18. P Rafferty, A Leggatt & Pat Rafferty 19-16. P Ray, J Neve & G Thorpe 19-16. Shots, VB 119(12) - 87(2) SM. Playing their re-arranged away game vs Quesada Pearls the next day they suffered on all rinks! Shots, VB 89(0) -118(14) Q. Voyager league Eagles away to El Rancho had the right idea, they had five wins and a drawn game, well done to S Kirk, M Irwin & T French 26-8. R Savage, K Savage & A Kendall 20-14. S Guy, D Graham & P Cadwell 18-14. P Tomkins, R Hudson & Penny Tomkins 15-13 and K Rennison, S Dibble & R Pownall 16-16.

Shots, VB 109(11) - 83(3) ER. WINTER LEAGUE. Home vs Bonalba and a great result. G Fisher, M Foulcer, C Thorpe & Gordon Fisher 23-7. L Watkins, S Burrows,

Winter League turned up at Quesada who were fourth in the league and we had a great match with it finishing six all. The three winning rinks were Don Fowkes with Mike Stone, Jean Fowkes and Mo Taylor who won 22-12. Then Dave Taylor, Mike Smith, Barbara Forshaw and Janet Parsons won a close game 14-11 and even closer were Barry Latham, Pete Parsons, Wendy Latham and Dave O’Sullivan who won on the last end by one. Okay so I was last again but luckily I didn’t have to bowl my last wood.

Come the Friday, come the change in the weather.

Got to San Luis to play the Tigers and it was cold and windy but the Merlins had a fine game winning three rinks and just losing the overall shots.

Someone only just got caught with losing two jacks off the rink and also bowling two wrong bias. I wouldn’t dare mention any names as I might not ever get a lift again. Two fairly close rinks were won by Alan Castle, Steve Hindle and Barbara Forshaw 1610 and Barry and Wendy Latham and Jean Tregoing

with Lynne Bishop

P Whitehall & E Bishop 19-12. L Bishop, C Watkins, B Norris & M Furness 15-9. S Kemp, T French, B Zelin & G Thorpe 19-12. Shots 86(19) - 59(2) B. S Kirk, P Tomkins, S Norris & Penny Tomkins had a good win for the BERLEEN 23-10.

FED 4’s. Vikings away to San Luis Ospreys. One win with the other 2 rinks losing on the last end..bad luck. Winning team, G Fisher, P Ray, G Thorpe & Gordon Fisher 20-15. Shots, VB 51(3) - 51(5) SL. SOUTHERN LEAGUE. Div A. Lanzadores away to San Miguel Pulsars. Two wins from the teams of L Bishop, C Watkins & P Whitehall 22-8. S Kemp, B Norris & B Zelin 18-15. Shots, VB 89(4) - 114(10) S M. Picadors away to La Marina Ospreys had one win from F Barclay, A Leggatt & L Barber 20-17. Two team lost by one shot! Shots, VB 81(2) - 137(12) L M. Conquistadores div C at home vs MonteMar Toreadors had three wins, well done to the teams of S Kirk, P Cadwell & M Blight 27-7.

I Irwin, M Irwin & T French 22-13. R Smith, D & J Harwood 17-7.

Shots, VB 97(8) - 90(6) MM.

El Rancho Bowls Club Report Monday morning found the Pintos playing host to Emerald Isle Neptunes, a cracking morning with a tricky wind that proved to be a great leveller. A good match was had by all and the bowling was pretty even, as was the result in the end. Both teams taking 3 rinks with the Pintos winning by just 14 shots, a fair result and good fun.

In the afternoon the Raiders entertained the eagles from Vistabella and although they only won one rink and drew another, with 2 close defeats. We do have a few young players and a couple of raw bowlers in the team; therefore I think it was a good effort. All that matters is the game is fun for all and encouraging for our newer bowlers.

Tricia Elsam, John Richards and Mick Ager 8-26. Lesley Day, Denise Morgan and Bob Morgan 17-14. Dolly Ford, David Baker and Tony Robinson 13-15. Bob Day, Gill Bartlett and Bob Easthope 14-20. Marion Haynes, Gary Dunstone and Malc Elmore 16-16.

Sheila Cox, Dave Haynes and Mike Cox 15-18.

17-13.

The old uns did very well winning quite comfortably 21-9 so well done Bill Jones, Dave McGraw and Reg Jackson. The Ospreys played at home against the Vistabella Picadors and had a great win by ten points. Alex Whyte, Jim Reeves and Kathy Manning had a fierce fight and ended up winning 1514.

Another winning by one shot and the same score was Peter On the other hand in the Discovery Division the Pathfinders Parsons, Mike Stone and Carol Smith. Don Fowkes and found their way over to the Emerald Isle as well to face the Shirley Hadaway had good wins. Don played with his wife, Moonrakers and they eclipsed them by 12-2. All but one rink Jean and Janet Parsons 27-10 while Shirley had help from won and I’m not allowed to say who they were. But the folPhil Pape and Margaret Finlayson 23-11. Top of the shop lowing won Dave Taylor, Berni Carr and Paul Tregoing won were Tom Spencer, Cliff Rawlinson and Ann Stone 40-12.

21-12 followed by Alan Castle, Mike Brain and Mo Taylor with 20-12. John Morgan, Arthur Cronk and Jeff Collins did Not many rinks do that...ever. Marvellous. well with a 21-12 win and John Withers, George Read about the visit of the Furzer and Barbara Forshaw came away with a 1910 victory. Wait for it, Sue Daniels, Garth Slater and Scotland Para Bowls Squad on Page 4 Martin Butler won 30-5. Brill.

Vistabella Bowls Club Report SAL Enterprise league, the Albatrosses had a bad day at Quesada.

Only one team won and another seizing a draw on the last end! S Kemp, C Watkins & M Furness 34-7...Great! N Burrows, A Brown & B Zelin 20-20 well done. Shots, VB 101(3) - 123(11) Q.

19

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On Friday morning with in very tricky conditions the broncos travelled to La Siesta to take on the Golds and came away with 2 rinks, which is always a good away result. Meanwhile the Mustangs were at home to San Luis Golds, a vicious wind made the line difficult to gauge with consecutive bowls taking totally differing roads, but in the end, with 4 of the rinks being within 2 shots, the match was drawn.

Mustangs taking 2 rinks to Golds 3 with one drawn and Mustangs taking the shots 107-87, a good result against a strong team. Diane Yates, Keith Cunningham and Bob Taylor 17-18. Judy Foley, Malc Sykes and Bob Morgan 18-12. Geoff Jones, Jane Hamill and Stew Hamill 16-16. Henry Ryder, Sheila Cooper and Carolyn Harris 1416. Ann Taylor, Shirley Edwards and Jim Taylor 29-11. Irene Thomson, Jim Gracie and Eddie Thomson 13-14 .

Contact Brian Taylor on 965 07 7093 or briantaylor_es@yahoo.co.uk or Carolyn Harris on 966 77 4316 or elranchobowls.secretary@gmail.com.

SOUTH ALICANTE WINTER TRIPLES Results/tables Week 12 - 22 January ENTERPRISE DIVISION Quesada Pearls 123 ( 11 ) Vistabella Drivers 119 ( 12 ) Emerald Isle Titans 111 ( 11 ) San Miguel Pulsars 92 ( 4 ) La Siesta Apollos 111 ( 8 ) Quesada Pearls 118 ( 14 )

Vistabella Albatrosses 101 ( 3 ) San Miguel Meteors 87 ( 2 ) La Marina Explorers 97 ( 3 ) San Luis Klingons 96 ( 10 ) Monte Mar Matadors 100 ( 6 ) Vistabella Drivers 89 ( 0 )

P W D L San Luis Klingons 12 48 3 21 Vistabella Albatrosses 12 43 3 26 Quesada Pearls 12 41 3 28 Emerald Isle Titans 12 39 3 30 San Miguel Meteors # 12 37 2 33 Vistabella Drivers 12 34 3 35 La Siesta Apollos 12 30 0 42 La Marina Explorers 12 28 2 42 San Miguel Pulsars 12 24 2 46 Monte Mar Matadors * 12 25 1 46 # 1 Point deducted for reporting infringement * 2 ) deducted for failing to field a full Side

O/W 9 9 7.5 6.5 8 5 5 5 3 2

Diff 268 278 206 39 45 -34 -137 -133 -250 -282

Pts 117 107 100 94 91 81 70 68 56 53

DISCOVERY DIVISION Greenlands Sycamores 75 (2) Emerald Isle Moonrakers 61 (2) Quesada Diamonds 98 ( 8 ) El Rancho Pintos 109 ( 8 )

San Luis Trekkers 148 ( 12 ) La Marina Pathfinders 118 ( 12 ) Greenlands Maples 93 ( 6 ) Emerald Isle Neptunes 95 ( 6 )

P W D L San Luis Trekkers 11 42 4 20 Greenlands Maples 11 39 1 26 La Marina Pathfinders 10 35 2 23 Quesada Diamonds 10 34 2 24 Emerald Isle Neptunes * 11 33 0 33 El Rancho Pintos 11 31 2 33 San Miguel Comets 10 29 1 30 Greenlands Sycamores ** 11 20 2 44 Emerald Isle Moonrakers * 11 17 2 47 * 2 ) deducted for failing to field a full side ** 4 ) deducted for failing to field a full side

O/W 9 6 6 6 8 4 5 3 1

Diff Pts 352 106 164 91 179 84 125 82 140 80 2 72 48 69 -470 44 -540 36

VOYAGER DIVISION San Luis Vulcans 104 ( 10 ) Country Bowls Flamingos 95 (4) Mazarron Mariners 98 ( 10 ) El Rancho Raiders 83 ( 3 ) Country Bowls Flamingos 76 (2)

La Siesta Pioneers 95 ( 4 ) Quesada Rubies 101 ( 10 ) Horadada Falcons 86 ( 4 ) Vistabella Eagles 109 ( 11 ) La Siesta Pioneers 102 ( 12 )

P W D L Mazarron Mariners 11 41 5 20 Horadada Falcons 11 36 4 26 Quesada Rubies 10 37 0 23 La Siesta Pioneers 11 34 2 30 San Luis Vulcans 11 31 5 30 Vistabella Eagles * 10 34 3 23 C Bowls Flamingos # * 11 26 2 38 El Rancho Raiders 11 21 3 42 San Luis Romulans * 10 14 4 42 * 2 ) deducted for failing to field a full Side # 1 point deducted for reporting infringement

O/W 9 6 5 7 8 5 2 4 2

Diff Pts 348 105 126 88 171 84 53 84 39 83 56 79 -90 55 -303 53 -400 34

20

Monday 29th January - Sunday 4th February, 2018

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Mike ProBert talks golf

(in assN with Costa Blanca Green Fee svcs)

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.

Golf Course Review – Font Del Llop Nestling in a high sided valley close to the town of Aspe is a wonderful golf course called Font del Llop, which literally translated from ‘old’ Spanish means Wolf’s watering hole.

To find this excellent golf course from Torrevieja follow the AP7/A7 motorway in the direction of Alicante and take the A31 exit towards Madrid and Montforte del Cid and stay on this road as far as the exit for Aspe (CV847).Take the exit off the roundabout in the direction of Aspe and the course is signposted on your left after 3.5km and the clubhouse itself is approx 2km from this entrance.

The clubhouse is a wonderfully restored building which used to belong to the land owner and his family and incorporates the proshop, locker rooms, conference rooms and restaurant. As you would expect from the pro-shop you can hire buggies, electric trolleys, pull trolleys and golf clubs. The course has good practise facilities with a driving range, chipping green and putting green.

This course was designed by Blake Stirling and Marco Martin includes five par 5’s and five par 3’s and measures 5,814 metres (6,395 yards) off the yellow tees and 4,800 metres (5,280 yards) from the ladies red tees. The course blends naturally into the local scenery and the main feature of the course is a small river (formerly used in beer production) which runs through the course and which inter-links five ponds positioned to catch any errant shots.

Although not overly long by modern standards this course has to be handled and managed well by all standards of golfer, particularly on the opening five holes which are ‘tight’ and which ‘squeeze’ you and my advise would be to put away the driver on these holes and use a small wood or hybrid club and hit the ball ‘where you can see it’ rather than letting loose with the ‘big dog’.

After these opening holes the course ‘opens up’ a little to give the

golfer some relief and I particularly liked the 491 metre (yellow tees) par 5 9th hole which raises gently up hill but allows you the options of playing ‘right’ or ‘left’ of the water hazard that runs the length of the fairway up to the green.

On the back nine holes the course finishes rather uniquely with a sequence of par 5, par 3, par 3 and finally par 5 with the final hole somewhat summarising all that you have seen over the previous 17 holes and I would strongly advise that whether you are a tourist or a resident you simply must add this course to your playing schedule.

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 until 18/02/18 Golf Course Alenda Alicante Altorreal Bonalba Don Cayo (Altea) El Plantio Font Del Llop La Finca La Marquesa La Serena Las Colinas Las Ramblas Lo Romero New Sierra Golf Roda Villamartin Villaitana Poniente Vistabella

Price €108 €114 €90 €100 €86 €112 €86 €128 €45 €112 €144 €104 €136 €95 €120 €110 €57 €86

Comments Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy (after 12pm) Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Green Fees and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee and Buggy Two Players and Buggy

For Bookings and info Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting the reference LEADER or on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931

EuroGolf Presidents Putter and Tuesday Toffs

On Thursday 25th January Eurogolf played a stableford off the blocks for the Presidents Putter Trophy.

The results were Cat 1 1st Pino Perito 39 c/b 2nd Bob Buckeridge 39 3rd Karen Simpson 39 Cat 2 1st Steve Sayers 37 c/b 2nd Gary Grierson 37 3rd Bob Adkins 36 Cat 3 1st Kevin Bonser 41 2nd Morag Turner 39 3rd David Valentine 38 Cat 4 1st Frances Buckeridge 25 2nd Gill Gordon 21 3rd Franco Gentili 20 NTP´s 5th John Barraclough 11th Bob Buckeridge 12th in 2 Linda Lynch 15th Bert Lawson 17th David Valentine Best front 9 John Barraclough 22 Best back 9 Ken Enever 22 Football draw Pete Gartside Ken Enever David Valentine Gary Grierson and Karen Simpson.

President Debbie Weedon was pleased to present overall winner Kevin Bonser with the trophy and a bottle of Cava.

TUESDAY TOFFS On Tuesday 23rd January Toffs played their weekly stableford competition in perfect conditions for golf and some good scores were recorded. The results were .Cat 1 (0-15) 1st Fred Reeve 39 2nd Bill Martin 38 c/b 3rd John Kirkwood 38 Cat 2 (16-22) 1st Debbie Weedon 40 2nd Martin Welsh 38 3rd Glenn Roberts 38 Cat 3 (2328) 1st Hadge Armstrong 41 2nd Chris Stanley 37 3rd Bob Adkins 35 Cat 4 (29+) 1st Lauraine Walker 42 2nd Frances Buckeridge 29 c/b 3rd Sue Pegg 29 Overall Toffs winner Lauraine Walker Best front 9 Alan Venables 21 Best back 9 Felix Mallon 22 NTPs 5th Ken Enever 11th David Blanchette 12th in 2 David Blanchette 15th Kevin Bonser 17th Bob Adkins Football draw Peter Sanderson Monique Reeve Bev Fairhurst x 2 and Keith Wright. If you would like to play at La Marquesa Tuesdays and Thursdays with one of the largest societies on the Costa Blanca please visit the website www.eurogolf-quesada.co.uk.

637 227 385

LEADER Marabu Golf Society - Font del Llop ADVERTISING HOTLINE

In association with Costa Blanca Green Fee Services For this month’s meeting a group of 20 players visited the established course at Font Del Llop taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services.

The weather was beautiful and the course in good condition but with some difficult tight pin positions.

The winning scores on the day were as follows: 1st – Steve Davey – 37 points, 2nd – Brian Smith – 35 points 3rd – Bill Fantom – 34 points, 4th – Mike Probert – 34 points Nearest the Pins – Mike Probert (2),Steve Hanaway,George Mercer & Brian Smith Dog of a Day – Danny Wheatley Best Guest – Mark Steel - 35 points Best Front Nine – Tony Ollier – 17 points Best Back Nine – Rod Allen – 17 points, Footbal Card – Rod Allen After the game we returned to Leaf's Restaurant, which is located at Pueblo Brava, Quesada for a welcome meal prepared by the bar and the prize presentation and we give our thanks for their continued support.

Our next interim fixture is at Altorreal on 8th February 2018 followed by the society day at Vistabella on 22nd Februray 2018.

Report by Mike Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931 or see www.costa-blanca-greenfees.com.

Lo Crispin Golf Socety at Lo Romero

By Steve Harrington.

The Society played its 2nd. main game of the year at Lo Romero, where this year we are holding our 2018 Eclectic Competition. The sun was shining, if a little cold, but there was little wind.

Fortunately these conditions prevailed throughout the day, except for becoming a little warmer, resulting in almost perfect golfing weather.

The investment and work to maintain the Course in excellent condition was immediately and visibly apparent, as the all the water around the signature 18th. hole had been drained completely.

We were informed by a member of the Course staff that, every 5 years or so the water is drained so that leaks can be detected and repaired, It was indicated by him also that the water level will be raised to make it even more visibly attractive. He also informed us interestingly that as many as 40k balls were cleared from the bottom of the water!!

When we started the round no balls were visible around the dried up 18th. island green, but by the time my 4 ball reached it there was a good number of balls had clearly failed to stay on the putting surface.

After the game, as usual we went back to the Lo Crispin Tavern as usual, where as we treated to tapas and a warm welcome. The scoring and prize winners were as follows : Gold Division - 1st - Adrian Aspbury 33pts. off 11 2nd - Harry Wilcock 31pts. off 15, 3rd - Ray Brown 30pts. off 11 Silver Division - 1st - Bill Acton 28pts.off 28 2nd - Steve Harrington 27pts. off 22 (CB), 3rd - Ian Blincoe - 27.off 28 Guest Prize - T. White - 33pts. playing off 11 and there were no 2's on the day.

NTP's on Par 3s: Hole 5 - Dicky Claeys, Hole 7 - Dave Norton, Hole 12 - Steve Harrington, Hole 15 - Nobody was able to reach or stay on the putting surface.

It turned out to be quite a good day for Ian Blincoe, who also won the free game raffle draw. The next main game is at Altorreal on 7th.

February and the 2nd. interim game on 31st. Jan at Font Del Llop.

Anyone interested in joining a fair and friendly society, or fancy a round with us as a guest should contact any member of the Committee. Details can be found on the Society website.

Las Ramblas Social Club Golf

by Mike Mahony On Monday we played Best 2 From 4, all count on the on the Par 5´s and the winning team with a score of 95 pts were Rachel Leckey, Terry Field, John Shervell and Mike Mahony.

Wednesday was the 1st round of our Electic Joker Competition and the results were as follows: 1st Benedicte Kruse 41pts, 2nd On a countback Lindsay Forbes 41 pts. 3rd 39 pts John Drakesmith, 4th on a count back Terry Cullen 39 pts, 5th on a count back Rod Doel 39 pts. 6th John Shervell 38 pts.

2´s Club: John Drakesmith, Ken Robertson, John Shervell and Lindsay Forbes.

Friday it was the Yellow Peril team game and with a score of 108 the winners were Pete Dunn, Ellen Drakesmith, Annmarie Weisheit and John Shervell.

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21

San Javier Golf Society Individual Stableford Qualifier"Lo Romero Golf.

Another “full house” for a great day’s golf with the society at the fabulous Lo Romero course, which looked a little odd due to the iconic 18th island green being drained of water from the surrounding lake for maintenance. Perfect sunny conditions and some great golf played, with almost everyone scoring well.

The winners on the day were: Division 1: First was Steve Branston with 38 points, Second - Jim Moffatt on 37, Third - Paul Newman with 36. In Division 2: First was Mick Hardy with 38 points, Second - Clyde Sandry on 34, Third - Captain Paul Hamlin on 33. In Division 3: First was John Hillier with 40 points, Second - Sandra Twentyman on 38 and Third - Jeff Belt also with 38. Nearest the pins were won

by David Archer, John Hillier and Eric Woolams. The gross 2 (for 50 euros) was not won and will roll on to our next game, which is a team "Dusty Bin" competition at La Serena, teeing off at 13:00pm on Monday 29th January. Full details will be emailed to all members.

Payday will be on Saturday 27th January in the bar area of La Serena Club House, between 11:00am and 12:00. For further information on our society, to play as a guest, or to join, please phone Barry Beale on +34 649 245 889 or look at our website at www.sanjaviergolfsociety.co.uk and Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sanjaviergolfsociety

PALM DESERT’S BIGHORN Golf Club, near to posh Palm Springs, California, opened it’s new $70 million clubhouse in November. The 80,000 square ft clubhouse, with stunning views of both the Mountains and Canyons courses, has limestone floors from Peru and travertine walls from Portugal. A 16-foot cascading chandelier hangs in the bar area. Residents are accommodated in penthouses with private lifts.

Amenities include 5 star restaurant, spa, pools and pickleball courts. Pickleball?

Dread to think what they’ve put the membership fees up to, and reviews say the prices are eye-watering, but if you live in Palm Springs that’s probably the least of your worries.

ADAM ROLSTON ended a 1250 mile journey when he finally sunk a 7ft putt on the Mt. Bogd Golf Club in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Ex-rugby internationals Adam, from Ireland, and his Australian caddie Ron Rutland, decided to play the world’s longest hole of golf (20,093 shots) from one end of Mongolia to the other. They calculated that par for the hole - across deserts, frozen rivers and swamps - would be 14,000.

Rutland pulled a 100kg cart loaded with their supplies and Rolston hit the shots, around 250 per day. A wild dog accompanied them and they adopted it. Extreme rain and snow in the mountains at the start was followed by the 40 degree heat of the Gobi Desert. The pair set a world record, and

raised £20,000 for charity, finishing after 80 days on Mongolia’s only golf course. Adam had lost untold golfballs and Ron narrowly avoided a sticky end when the cart fell on him in a bog. The Mongolians they met en route left off hunting and hawking to have a go at this strange game. “The worst part was putting on soaking freezing shoes in the mornings,” Adam said, “ but we had a great time.” As my old Dad used to say: “There are more out than in.”

IN CASE YOU THINK Twistface and Hammerhead are two muscle-bound thugs from the latest James Bond movie, they are actually features of Taylor Made’s new M4 driver. After getting over their sulk at being beaten in sales by Calloway’s Epic, Taylor Made decided that a High Launch and Low Spin combination with ample forgiveness would be their aim, rather than distance.

Twistface is used in other drivers, notably Cobra’s F8, but Taylor Made insist the M4 is even twistier. Hammerhead is just another slot, their answer to Calloway’s Jailbreak technology. The silver matte finish adds a touch of class, but Golfspy say “If you have an M2 you probably don’t need to change, although If your driver is a few years old the M4 is an impressive performer for its ‘modest’ price tag.” (£369.00). Dustin Johnson splashed out his savings on an M4 and won at Kapalua recently, so if you want to produce 433 yd drives make for your nearest golf shop.

“SPAINS BEST GOLF COURSE”, Las Colinas, run by Troon International, took the title for the third consecutive year at the World Golf awards in November, adding to their titles of Spain’s and Europe’s Leading Villa Resort. Nominees in the Best Course category included La Manga’s South course, Sotogrande and Valderrama, so the competition was hot. La Manga must have been gnashing their teeth but their hotel Principe Felipe did win Best Golf Hotel so they had some consolation.

RORY MCILROY’S THIRD PLACE prize money in the HSBC at Abu Dhabi will help to pay for his latest house purchase, and if his six bedroom Florida mansion sells for the asking price of $13m he will make a tidy profit, having bought it five years ago for 9.5 million. Rory and his other half are moving to Jack Nicklaus’s exclusive Bears Club, where Dustin Johnson, Rickie Fowler & Co. put in a spot of practice between globe-trotting. Rory’s new house formerly belonged to Ernie Els, who has moved to nearby Old Palm Golf Club where fellow S. African Louis Oosthuizen owns a modest pad and they can reminisce over a Carling Black Label. It’s one jolly game of musical houses at the top.

Until next time: Happy Golfing. Contact Mick for your regripping and reshafts.

638 859 475.

Rocket’s Golf Society - January Awayday at Roda Down the AP7 to Roda Golf for our away day. We had a full compliment of players, course in brilliant condition and wall to wall sunshine, what more would you want in January. Scoring pretty good on a tough course, with our Handicap Secretary coming in with 35 points to take first place in the Gold Category. Only two points on the last 2 holes could have been sandbagging.

GOLD CATEGORY 1st R Smith 35 pts 2nd A Williams 28 pts on C/b 3rd R O’Sullivan 28 pts SILVER CATEGORY 1st Rocket Ron Nicholson 30 pts 2nd A Billings 29 pts 3rd K Hopkins 26 pts

Wild and Windy at La Finca !

NEAREST THE PINS: Hole 2 Arfer, Hole 7 P Mutter, Hole 11 M Anderson, Hole 13 P Wilkinson Longest Drive R Smith, Best Guest Ken Ogden After the game we came back to our original home The St James’s Gate pub for our Presentation and a lovely meal of Chilly Rice and Chips, supplied by our hosts. A big vote of thanks to Hughie and Kevin for making us welcolm, Our next game is in 3 weeks time when we will be at our home course Vistabella first Tee 09.00am Please be there by 08.15 am That is the 13th February.

Anyone who would like to join our friendly society or just play a game whilst on holiday Give Rocket Ron a ring on 0034 678 849 142 or email: sanmigron@gmail.com

Today the TPGS visited a very windy La Finca, the course was as usual in excellent condition but the weather made it very difficult to play.

The best lady was won by Margaret Woodall with 15pts, the best guest was Tom Cornwall with 25pts and the worst score was Gordi who came in with 11pts as usual he gets to enjoy a fine bottle of wine. The NTP'S where won by Tony "Hi ho" Smale who also took the 2’s pot, Barry Lane, John Peters, Bib Price and Kev Adamson.

The silver division was won by Brian McFenty with 24pts. Ian Woodall and Bob Price came 2nd and 3rd. Kev Harmiston came 3rd with 27pts (pretty good of scratch!) Phil de Laceup continues his fine run of form with 30pts but Kevin O’Bird was a clear winner of the gold division with 32pts.

Our next game is Captain's Day on Feb 9th at Villamartin which has completely sold out. For upcoming fixtures check out our website www.theplazagolfsociety.com

22

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EURONICS THURSDAY DART LEAGUE “THE ELECTRICAL SHOP” - BLUE LAGOON Match Results for 25th January 2018 (pts for win/draw) Junction Jaguars Hub Hyenas* Ale House Tavern Oldies** Porter House Bees Pint depot Queens Wee Rockers

3-9 7-0 6-6 0-7 10-2 0-12 2-10

Porter House Hen's Teeth Angels Amigos Misfits Hub Hellraisers El Capitan Junction Jackals

*Hen’s Teeth forfeited game to Hub Hyenas due to short age of players. **Tavern oldies only had 3 players turn up, game forfeited to Amigos Misfits

Hub Hyenas Junction Jackals El Capitan Porter House Las Rosas Angels Tavern Oldies Ale House Wee Rockers Junction Jaguars Amigo's Misfits Pint Depot Queens Hen's Teeth Porter House Bees Hub Hellraisers

P 12 12 12 12 11* 11* 13 13 12 12 12 12 12 12 12

Pts 24 22 21 18 15 14 13 13 12 7 7 5 3 2 1

Legs 110 98 106 89 82 78 77 72 66 55 49 45 42 53 27

*Angels v Las Rosas postponed match is scheduled to be played on 30th Jan. Pint Depot Queens v El Capitan (0-12) Well, all good things must come to an end as they say. After the highs of last week winning our first match so far this season came the lows of losing 12-0 to our first whitewash. However, despite this we remained upbeat as always and El Capitan were good sports with our constant banter.

I think they were running scared a few times as we did get down to some doubles and looked set to win at least 3 of them, one of the triples with Pam, Lyn and Lorraine getting close as El Capitan made their way round the doubles board! Once in the doubles with Debbie and Lorraine trying many times to get a double. The other close game was in the singles with Pam v Jim Storey. Great scoring from both, Pam 93, 61, 83 and Jim 138, 60, 85. JS even scored just 2!

I guess at the end of day it was their finishing that clinched it (as well as some decent scoring Aroldas 140, 100 x2, Jim S 138, Edmundas 125, John 121, David 100 x2). Queens’ Pam scored a great 93 and 83, Ali 84 and Lyn 81. So, who scored those important doubles? Well they went to Jim S D10 1st treble, Aroldas d7 2nd treble and D1 3rd treble. David D2 1st double, John 2nd double 66 finish T6, S8, D20, Edmundas 3rd double D16. Singles Jim S D5,

6-3 P-P 6-3 7-2

Macklins Dolly Mixtures El Balcon Chicas Primadonnas Friendly's Temps

Congratulations to the Black Dog Ladies for getting their first win this year and Good Luck to everyone playing in the Ladies Pairs tomorrow evening.

P W L Pts. Gap Ladies 4 4 0 12 Friendly Chicas 4 3 1 10 Wildcats at Macklins 3 3 0 9 Macklins Dolly Mixtures 4 2 2 8 El Balcon Chicas 3 2 1 7 Black Dog Ladies 4 1 3 6 Friendly's Temps 4 0 4 4 Primadonnas 4 0 4 4

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By Simone de Lacy

Edmundas D1, John D18, Jim S D20, David D9, Aroldas D8. Man of the match: John Walker for El Capitan and Pam McCutcheon for the Queens. Thanks lads for showing us how it should be done!!! ... and for making it an early night for us as we finished on the same night (10.45 pm). Report by Cheryl Sleath

had a fight on his hands with a close finish but John managed to get the highest score of the night, 140 and a D1 finish. Captain Eddie v Lesley saw the Bees Captain finish on D16. In the final game Ivan was on fire as he played Sarah Austin with some good scoring of 125 and 100 he took the last game of the night on 16, D8 The final score was 10-2 to the Bees. Lady of the match was Hellraiser Sarah Arnold and man of the Match was Bees Ivan Jones Porter House Bees (at the Fire Station) v Hub Hellraisers Junction Jaguars v Porter House 3-9 Porterhouse Bees played their first home game at The Fire Station The Porters at Pati’s bar rallied themselves this week after a 10-2 this Thursday against the Hub Hellraisers and both teams were given drubbing last week from the Hyenas. Cnl. Sanders (Ray Sanderson) a warm welcome by owners Nigel and Tracy.

127, Graham ‘Toddy’ Todd and Yvonne ‘Rooffie’ Rouffignac -D16 The Bees kicked off to a great start by winning the trebles and the took the first triples against Wendy Woo, Elizabeth and Shazzles doubles as Terry, John and Michelle v the three S's, Sarah Austin, (Sharom Marshall).

Sharon and Sarah Arnold saw John take D1. The three S's had some Captain Simmie de Lacy (66, 62), Patty Poo (93) and Lelly Eagles good 80 scores but sadly it was down to finishes. Eddie, Helen and 77 could not claw one back against Peter ‘Fluffy’ Ayres D4, Ray Gilly 102 and D3 finish v Linda, Lesley and Cheryl with again some ‘Hazy’ Hayes or captain Brian ‘Gnasher’ Nash. Fluffy (133, 121) good scoring for all but the finishing prevailed. Ivan, Gilly and John also got the finish on D10 in the 3rd Triples with teammates Mike smashed the final treble D1 for John against Lesley, Val and Newbury (100) and Cnl Sanders (85).

Christine.

Onto the pairs and Shazzles (100, 77) and Sneezleberry Button duck On to the doubles with Gilly and Helen v Captain Cheryl and Lesley (Denise Green) (68, 85) showed promising form and almost took the with another close game and some good scoring by Lesley but win with several shots each at a finish but alas Rooffie (140, 70) and another in the bag for Gilly 14,D17. Michelle and Terry v Sarah Ar and Sharon saw Michelle win with D2. John and Ivan (100) and D2 Hazy (76, D2) nabbed it away. Lelly Bear (85, 72) and Gail Todd (71, 54 x 2) also gave a good show but Graham Todd (no relation) finish v Val and Christine took us to the half time stage. Tracy and captain Gnasher (60, 100, D3-D16) took the 2nd. Cptn. Simmie served up jumbo sausages and chips with Gravy to see us all through (62) and Patty Poo (80, 77), in their first pairing in a long time, startto the singles. ed well but then fizzled out which you just can’t do when up against Gilly was hoping to win a third game of the night but Sarah Arnold played some blinding scores and although it was close, Sarah scoring Fluffy (86, 95, 79) and finger-lickin’ good Cnl Sanders 60, D16).

122 and a D7 finish sealed the first Hellraiser win. Terry also lost out As ever, the ladies tend to come into their own in the singles and Lelly Bear kicked that off with our first leg (62, 52, 92, 100, D5) to Sharon as she took him out with D1. Michelle whipped the Bees against Mr Todd. Wendy Woo almost had Cnl Sanders but he was back into action as she took out Linda with a D6 finish in spite of on form again a bargain bucket of scores – 55, 81, 55, 62, 82, S4-D2.

Linda's good scoring and a 104. John Lane v Captain Cheryl also Next up was a bit of girl on girl action with Simmie playing Rooffie.

Despite a lot of heckling from Tracey Simpson’s dad, Simmie (95, 60, 82, D1) just pipped Rooffie (60 x 2) to the finish. Whilst out ‘avin a fag’, she was delighted to hear the rapturous applause as Shazzles stormed home with 51, 58, 88, 79 and D15 for our 3rd leg point against Mike (100, 120), earning her a well-deserved MOTM. In the penultimate singles Poo (85 x 2, 81) succumbed to Fluffy’s 59, 76, 79, 64, D20, his third win of the night, earning him MOTM for the Porters.

Finally, a superb performance by Qn Elizabeth Cowan (82, 116, 86) should have been enough to see her swipe the last point but Gnasher dashed her hopes with 92, S6-D20.

A huge thank you to Nigel Elvery Victory for the Bees for doing all the chalking for us for in their new venue!. the price of a few ciders!

Torrevieja Darts - Ladies Organisation Friendly's Chicas Wildcats at Macklins Black Dog Ladies Gap Ladies

637 227 385

This week’s Hot Darts: Marylyn Jackson 131+117+107, Maureen Church 127, Elaine Willis 121+109, Sandra Crabbe 120+100, June Hawkins 114, Lisa Alsop 113, Christine Simmonds 110, Angela Mullen, Cynthis Jevons 100 Ladies Singles: Our Ladies Singles will take place on Tuesday 27th February 2018. Again, there will be two venues, Macklin’s in Via Park III and El Balcon in Los Balconies. Raffle prizes will be provided by Macklin’s Dolly Mixtures and El Balcon Chicas.

Captains please send your names to me by Email by the 15th February latest. We will do the Draw and let you know which venue your players need to be at by the 20th February so you can inform your players accordingly.

Pam Horton, 96 571 0066, Ladies Darts Coordinator, Email: Dartess501@gmail.com

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23

Another blank as Torry slip down the table T

here's good and bad news. The good news is that Torry scored 3 goals (Manu, Calderon and Marwane), in their midweek friendly 3-4 defeat against Chinese side Meizhou Meixian, at Pinatar Arena. The bad news is that when it really mattered, they failed to score in Saturday's league match at University of Alicante Stadium.

It doesn't make good reading, when you consider that the last time the men from the salt lakes last won a

match, was on 19 Nov at Jove Espanol.

CD Uni of Alicante .........2 Subsequently, they've drawn 4 and lost 4, scoring a paltry 4 goals in the process, giving them only 4 points from a max- CD Torrevieja .................0 imum 24. Quite simply put, this is relegation form, and it's only a superb start to the season that's keeping them in mid table.

Pedreño elected to start with new signing Calderon, in a side void of suspended trio Marwane, Walid and Mario. The managers latest signing is a 29 year old out of contract journeyman, whose last side was Novelda and before that Cadiz.

It took Romero 71 minutes before the University of Alicante striker broke the deadlock, then 8 minutes later he scored the killer goal, courtesy of Brice who provided assists for both goals. Match referee Pastor was a busy man, booking 5 players from the host team, along with Zaragoza, Tenza and Ramiro of Torry.

Torry’s latest signing, Calderon, late of Novelda and Cadiz

Torry line up - Buyo, Vicente, Borja (Coria), Lewis, Zaragoza, Tenza, Manu, Ramiro (Manu), Beltran (Santi), Calderon, Juanpe.

Next Sun 4 Feb (ko presumably 5pm, but check club website for confirmation), Torry welcome Orihuela 'B' to Vicente Garcia Stadium, where they hope to inflict a first league double of the season.

Afies welcome new Captain at Villamartin 24 members and guests from Alfie's GS travelled to Villamartin GC for the first meeting of the year on January 25th. It was the first venue of our new captain Ian Ingledew.

As always Alfies’s support a charity for the year chosen by the captain and Ian’s chosen charity this year is Prostate Cancer UK. The weather was chilly. The course was ok but the tees were all at the back making it a challenge. The presentation was held back at Alfies’s bar where a buffet was enjoyed by all the players. This year it was decided at the AGM that we would divide the society into 2 categories based on players handicaps “GOLD” & “SILVER” Our winner of the day in the silver division was Peter Golder with 36 stableford points Second went to Luke Branch with 29 stableford points decided on count back.

The Winner of the gold division was Ian Connell with 31 stableford points. Second place went to Alistair Quinn with 29 points.

Best Guest went to John Minns with 18 stableford points.

Nearest the pin in the 6th– Sponsored by ‘The Street Restaurant’ went to Peter Golder Nearest the pin on the 9th– sponsored by ‘The Auld Dubliner‘ went to Alistair Quinn Silver winner was Nearest the Pin in 2 shots on the Peter Golder with 15th - sponsored by ’The Celtic 36 stableford pts Drop’ went to Rita Potters Captain Drive in hole was won by Mike Fitzpatrick and the prize was donated by our new captain Ian Ingledew.

The Blind pairs was won by Jim Dempsey and George Potters I have received a note from our captain and he is looking forward to playing with as many members as possible throughout the year.

Many thanks to our sponsors, our committee for their hard work in the background, and to Mike Probert from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services for arranging our day.

To Rose and Jim and staff at Alfies Bar for their support throughout the year.

Big Thank you to Sandie Hall for organising the charity raffle and prizes, and finally thanks to all the members for supporting Alfies Golf Society.

The next venue will be held at Vistabella on February 22nd 2018 and we will try the new holes that have been added. It is añso the first round of the society’s Eclectic Cup. Finally we invited representatives from “The Royal British Legion” to receive the money the society raised last year. In total for the year Alfie’s Golf Society donated 1,000.00 Euros to this very worthy charity.

Alfies get the RBL year of to a great start Whilst much is made of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal leading up to Remembrance in late October and November the actual Legion fundraising goes on all year round.

On the Orihuela Costa there are many regular campaigns, events and activities that take place throughout the year, both by the branch organisers themselves and by other clubs and businesses.

One such organisation is Alfies Golf Society in Lomas de Cabo Roig where the Poppy Appeal was chosen as the Annual Charity during 2017.

Members always donate an absolute minimum of 200 euro during every appeal, last year being no different, but as the Society Captain’s chosen charity, monies were still being counted up to the very end of the year.

Last Thursday, on the occasion of Burns Night, and following on from the Society’s successful outing to Villamartin, the former Captain, Ian Connell, used the opportunity to announce details of the monies raised and to present a cheque for 800 euro to the Poppy Appeal Organiser Eddie Coleman.

Ian said that he was absolutely delighted to support the

charity which, as a former Royal Engineer, had always been close to his heart. Eddie Coleman responded by thanking the society for their generosity saying that it was a magnificent sum that would get the 2018 campaign off to an extremely good start.

In 2017 the branch raised almost 45,000 euro which is now in the hands of the Welfare Officer, Spain, where it is already being put to extremely good use.

The Orihuela Costa Branch of the RBL meets at the Olympia restaurant, Mil Palmeras, on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 7.00 for 7.30pm. The branch enjoys many social functions, and everyone is welcome.

The District has 19 Branches and all arrange varied social events, as well as raising money for the Poppy Appeal and supporting our beneficiaries.

New members are always welcome and you do not need to have an Armed Forces background to enjoy all the Branch has to offer.

Locations and details of all Branches can be found on the website: www.britishlegion.org. uk/counties/spain-north.

For support and information, please email assistance.rbl.dns@gmail.com or call 676 451 780.

24

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