The Leader Newspaper 4 December 2023 – Edition 1000

No 1000 Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

office@theleader.info

637 227 385

FOR THE WEEKS COMMENCING 4 & 11 DECEMBER, THE LEADER NEWSPAPER WILL BE DISTRIBUTED ON THE TUESDAY OF BOTH WEEKS

SEE PAGES 4 @ 5

Today is a landmark occasion in the history of THE LEADER NEWSPAPER, as this Great Costa Blanca Weekly celebrates its 1000TH EDITION. During the intervening years, since its first publication on 6th April 2004, over 20 million copies have rolled off the presses, all to be distributed absolutely free of charge, across the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida.

In the twenty years since our launch the country and the world have seen a multitude of changes as our editors and journalists have pioneered predominantly LOCAL Spanish journalism, both NEWS and SPORT, reporting on numerous elections, the economic crisis, the abdication of King Juan Carlos, a multitude of tragic murders, the impact of COVID-19 and the 2019 DANA, as well as campaigning on issues as varied as hospital waiting times and corruption in local politics.

Our two decades have seen technological advances beyond the wildest dreams of some of those who wrote for us in the early days, but with the advancement of the internet and all that it brings will there still be room for the printed word in another 20 years?

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR VALUED READERS AND ADVERTISERS

Only time will tell how the story of news reporting will unfold and what subjects will be newsworthy in 2043, but one thing is certain, that is, the Leader’s continuing curiosity about what is happening in our communities, as we continue to strive for a safe and secure future for ourselves and our loved ones.

These are the very foundations that the Leader was bult on, reporting stories of public interest and campaigning on behalf of our loyal readers, and you can rest assured that such principles will remain at our core as we celebrate our 1000th edition, and in the many editions that are still to come.

PAGE 2

www.theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

‘TOP NOTCH’ AUTHOR, BOOK T SIGNING IN TORREVIEJA

his coming Saturday, December 9, from 11 am to 1 pm, American author and local resident Nancy Blodgett Klein will be signing copies of her four well-reviewed books at Carmen’s restaurant, located at Calle Fray Angélico, 11, in Urb. El Chaparral, Torrevieja.

Klein will be doing this activity as part of a Christmasthemed table top sale for La Siesta Evangelical Church. In addition to the book signing, there will be handmade Christmas cards for sale, Christmas decorations and gifts, English books, handbags, jewelry and baked goods.

Nancy Blodgett Klein worked as a journalist as well as a magazine editor in

637 227 385

the Chicagoland area after receiving a master’s degree in journalism from Boston University. She also holds a master’s degree in education from Roosevelt University.

She has worked as a public school teacher including as a bilingual teacher to mostly Mexican students.

She is now retired and living in Orihuela Costa where she keeps busy with yoga, singing in Crescendo International Choir, participating in the Torrevieja Writers Circle and two book groups. She has published four books, Torn Between Worlds, Life Lessons, Guidance for all Ages, What’s So Special About Spain? and Growing a TopNotch Family Tree with Stories from its Branches.

DOUBLE TROUBLE

Although there seems to be a distinct lack of money to spend in Orihuela, certainly there is on the coast, for a period of eight days in October the council employed two municipal treasurers, instead of one, two treasurers with exactly the same functions, when only one is established in the Job schedule.

This was revealed by Ciudadanos councillor Luisa Boné, the previous government’s HR manager. Between October 2 & 10, two treasurers were employed, a situation that Boné describes as "anomalous and legally impossible", given that the position can only be occupied by one person, even if it is on an interim or provisional basis.

As such, the City Council had to pay two salaries and meet two Social Security bills for two municipal officials doing the same job during the same period of time. “Which of the two really carried out the work during those days, who signed?”, Boné asks herself.

Ciudadanos denounced that after requesting access to the file due to complaints from the treasurer who was dismissed, they have still not been allowed to look at the information, more than a month after requesting it.

While on the subject of council staff picking up large salaries for doing nothing, I can think of at least 25 more!

Costa Blanca Morris Dancers to appear on UK TV s a result of an article published in the local English newspapers, ‘Costa Blanca Morris Dancers’ may appear on UK TV sometime next year.

A

The company responsible for filming the popular Channel 5 TV programme ‘Bargain Loving Brits in the Sun’ spent a day filming Morris ‘Squire’, Jean, and her husband, Dave, who is also in the accompanying band, as they prepared for the dancers to perform during a recent Craft Fair held in the garden and Community Hall outside Campoverde Church.

As well as filming the dancing and stalls at the Craft Fair, the TV crew followed the group to a social meal afterwards at ‘El Bar S C’ in the nearby village of San Cayetano.

Here, the dancers were persuaded to dance again, to the delight of the customers, and

two of the film crew were so enthusiastic about the performance that they asked if they could join in!

Currently believed to be the only Morris team in Spain, ‘Costa Blanca Morris Dancers’ perform at indoor or outdoor social or charity events and are always looking for new members, men or women of any age.

The dancers practice every Friday afternoon from 4 - 6pm at the Ayuntamiento, Plaza Florida, Pinar de Campoverde 03191 (near Pilar de la Horadada).

No previous experience is necessary as training will be given, so if you are looking for a fun and not too strenuous form of exercise, contact the Squire, Jean Tonge, by email at: costablancamorrisdancers@yahoo.com

office@theleader.info

ADVERTISING SALES

637 227 385 sales@theleader.info PROPERTY

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

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

TORREVIEJA MAYOR WANTS 21ST CENTURY CONNECTIONS THE NEW PORT: Due to be completed between spring 2024 and the end of the year

orrevieja has one of the greatest natural and tourist attractions, La Mata-Torrevieja Natural Park, where its salt flats are located, internationally recognised for being the most productive in all of Europe, as well as its pink lagoon, a unique natural phenomenon in Spain.

However, Dolón says that Torrevieja still suffers from many injustices and a lack of public investment, stating that the compensation works on Los Locos beach, promised by Acuamed, the public company that built the largest desalination plant in Europe in the town, is still pending completion.

Thus, the city surpassed the peak of 550,000 inhabitants last summer, which is why its mayor, Eduardo Dolón, is once again demanding substantial improvement in infrastructure and communications.

“But still more is needed,” he states,“if we are to make the improvements necessary for our public services.” Dolón alludes to the new garbage contract recognising that "cleaning and collection is being carried out with 15-year-old vehicles, highly inappropriate for a tourist city of which Torrevieja want to be a model. Torrevieja is a city that demands, and also deserves, far more.

T

Torreveija is a city He refers to the way in which the city is It also has 14 kilometres of beaches, among that demands, and quickly growing and gave as an example which the Náufragos beach, La Mata beach deserves, far more school number 14 that has been created and La Cala Ferris stand out, while, at the and filled in a matter of months, still not same time, the facilities offered in the port enough though, and which urgently area are undergoing a major transformation. requires the construction of another. But he also emphasises the fact that the city has invested one As a result of this, and much more, Torrevieja welhundred million euros, of which half comes from comes thousands of tourists every summer, and that public-private collaboration, that will transform the is without counting the many thousands of foreign maritime façade with a new port, "due to be completresidents who increasingly decide to settle in the ed between spring 2024 and the end of the year." municipality.

The CV-91 (from Guardamar to Orihuela), the CV-95 (from Torrevieja to Orihuela), the national highway 332 along the coast (from Pilar de la Horadada to Guardamar), all need major improvements that would, at the same time, also improve the lot for the other municipalities of Vega Baja, a region that sits in fifth position in the number of inhabitants in the entire Valencian Community.

But Torrevieja is not only keen to improve its road communications, as touched on earlier, the municipality is also witnessing a major transformation that will see light in 2024 with the new port, a matter of especial importance, one that will attract even more visitors to the area.

www.theleader.info

PAGE 3

PAGE 6

www.theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

COUNCIL BEGINS EXPROPRIATION OF WALKWAY

office@theleader.info

CIVIC CENTRE TO BE REPAIRED In answer to a question tabled at the Plenary Session by a member of the public, the councillor for Citizen Participation, Mari Carmen Portugal of Vox, said that plans to repair the Ramon de Campoamor Civic Centre in Orihuela Costa are currently being drafted prior to the work being put out to tender.

A

t the plenary session of the Orihuela Council, held on Thursday, councillors unanimously rejected the allegations made by the residents of the Bellavista de Cabo Roig urbanisation, opening the procedure that they say will lead to expropriation of the land occupied by the closed section of the Cabo Roig walkway.

They warn, however, that the procedure could be a tortuous path, due to the refusal of the urbanisation owners to accept a lower price than what the Council is willing to pay.

However, the Councilor for Urban Planning, Matías Ruiz, has been quite optimistic stating that he is confident of being able to reach an agreement with the residents and not having to resort to the court of arbitration, which would slow down the opening of the walkway.

"We opted for the path of mutual agreement, which is the fastest way to move forward, and we believe that we can reach an understanding," he stated in the plenary session.

“The City Council has made a fair offer for the land which they can accept or not.

If they do not accept it, it will be the Provincial Expropriation Court that will finally set the fair price. We find this route to be the best and most reasonable way to move ahead.”

The Council had valued the land at 70,000 euros, 227 square meters on the edge of the cliff, while the owners are asking for 3 million, a figure that the Council is not willing to pay.

Currently, residents and visitors to Orihuela Costa are forced to make a

637 227 385

The statement caused surprise to members of the opposotion with the previous mayor, Carolina Gracia, demanding that, if this were the case, the cost of such repairs must be borne by the constructor.

Cllr Portugal responded by stating that the council would be bearing the costs, thought to be in the region of 300,000 euro, as the cause of the subsidence appeared to result from a broken pipe which was not the responsibility of the builder.

detour of almost two kilometres to move between the two points connecting Aguamarina with La Caleta, a stretch of just 60 metres, along the seafront.

On March 28 of this year, the Provincial Coastal Service authorised the Orihuela Council to reestablish the passage that connects the Aguamarina pedestrian path with La Caleta, however, the works were not started, despite the fact that the Ministry for Ecological Transition gave them a period of one year to reopen of the section, which they valued at just over 100,000 euros. Due to a lack of funding the Council says that it is unable to undertake these works before the Costas' authorisation expires on March 28, 2024.

The PSOE councillor Milagros Lacárcel, said that he regretted that the government coalition, made up by PP and Vox, did not comply in September with the recom-

mendation made by the secretary of the City Council, to begin the procedure for urgent occupation of the land, to act immediately, reopen it and then pay the fair price to the owners.

"This is now going to take years. As long as the owners are not compensated with the fair price that is established, the promenade will not be able to be opened or the works carried out," he added.

However, the Councilor for Heritage, Matías Ruiz, said again that he trusts in a mutual agreement between the residents and the City Council "and we want to do things by consensus." "We are going to talk to the property owners and reach an agreement," he said.

The spokesperson for Cs, José Aix, is also very optimistic about the reopening of the walkway "and we hope that by next summer the passage could be open," he added.

MOMENTOUS WEEK FOR THE SPANISH NAVY

Health unions demonstrate over 35-hour working week.

The health sector unions (SATSE, CC OO, UGT, CSIF and Intersindical Valenciana) were out in large numbers this Monday in front of Valencia’s Ministry of Health, to demand compliance with the agreement signed on March 8 that established a 35-hour working week.

The unions defend the reduction in hours, thereby falling in line with many other autonomous communities, for all staff, as promised in the agreement signed in March. Furthermore, they reject the delay in its introduction.

Meanwhile the Ministry of Health has expressed its intention to apply the 35 hours in 2025, "but without opening a formal dialogue process and without any indication of an implementation date."

"This measure contributes to strengthening and rejuvenating the workforce, retaining talent, attracting new professionals and improving a personal and family balance. In short, it contributes to strengthening the health system and improving the working conditions of the staff, which In turn, will have an impact on the quality of care,” they say.

“If the authorities refuse to comply with this agreement,” they continue, the unions will call all staff to mobilise in defence of the improvement to their working conditions," the union warns.

Thursday 30 November 2023 was a date for the future history books, as a new, and long-awaited boat entered into service with the Spanish Navy.

The submarine S-81 Isaac Peral took to service on and under the sea, having been built in Cartagena, over a period of almost 20 years.

The Isaac Peral (S-81) is a submarine (SSK-AIP ) of the S-80 class belonging to the Spanish Navy, built by Navantia in Cartagena, Spain, and the fourth submarine of the Navy to bear the name Isaac Peral.

Considerably larger than the Isaac Peral now safely stored inside the naval museum in the town of birth of this latest

boat, the S-81's sponsorship ceremony was held on April 22, 2021, with Princess Leonor and was launched on May 7, 2021. The port and sea tests were carried out during 2022 and much of this year.

The Isaac Peral is the first of four new technology propulsion submarines, belonging to the S-80 class, ordered from Navantia by the Spanish Navy. In its first technical stop (year 2029/30) it will be equipped with the AIP system, developed by the company Abengoa Innovación SA, a company that is part of Abengoa.

Its construction began in 2005, finishing the construction of the resistant hull on October 15, 2010.

With an aged fleet, the Spanish Navy had suffered many problems in recent years maintaining the submarines, at one point without any such boats available in service.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

www.theleader.info

PAGE 7

LOS DOLSES SCHOOL WAITING YEARS FOR ESSENTIAL MAINTENANCE With no offers received from contractors willing to carry out the work it has taken the Orihuela Council four months to close the file certifying that the contract is void. One constructor told the local press that the allocated amount of 775,000 euros was not going to scratch the surface of the many tasks that need to be done.

The Generalitat will now have to rethink the tender price to make it more attractive for companies in the sector.

Los Dolses and the Playas de Orihuela Schools are also accommodating the school population that should have gone to the new prefabricatNo bids for the 775,000 euro school improvement project as children continue to be taught in corridors. he Colegio Los Dolses de Orihuela Costa has been waiting for years, as the Department of Education fails to come up with a meaningful investment plan, which is necessary to bring absolutely essential improvements to the centre.

T

As the facility continues to be saturated by new students throughout the entire school year, Los Dolses now has over has 700 students, 85% of which are from overseas.

However, the planned investment of 775,000 euros (VAT included) has remained nothing more than a political void as no company seems to be interested in taking on the contract, despite much of the work being absolutely essential.

Plans include repairs to fix the defects in the fencing and party walls, necessary because of the construction of illegal housing authorised by the Orihuela City Council. There is also a need to renew the facades of the building and make improvements to the Nursery and Primary playgrounds with the replacement of playground furniture and demolition of other concrete components.

The gymnasium roof is in desperate need of repair and the demolition of the Pilota Valenciana courts as well as refurbishment of the kitchen - which is only 64 square metres, and serves two meal sittings with a total of 400 diners.

ed school, the third public Infant and Primary school on the coast, which has not yet been built because the City Council continues to dither about a suitable location for its construction.

Los Dolses school is in need of urgent expansion having doubled the number of its students in five years. The School, the first public one to be built on the Oriola coast, has 31 classrooms although the actual capacity is only 18, but despite converting several additional areas into classes, including a teachers' staff room and the library, children continue to be taught in school corridors and as they sit on floors in overcrowded classrooms.

PAGE 8

www.theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

STOP VENERATING SUICIDE uicide bothers everybody, and it bothers me. It bothers me because I have lost more than one friend to it over the years. The fact that a few of my dear friends have lost a child to suicide, troubled me even more.

S

There is no greater pain in the world than for a parent to lose a child and the one lost to suicide is the greatest pain of all.

Close to a million lives are lost globally every year through suicide.

It is the second leading cause of death among fifteen to twenty-nine year olds. The number of such deaths is very likely underestimated in Ireland, where many are put down to car-crashes and accidental falls.

Males outnumber female suicide deaths by about two to one – except when it comes to elderly females; but as we say, adolescent males are at greatest risk.

The W.H.O tells us that 20 suicide attempts take place for each suicidal death and bafflingly, whilst there are more male deaths, young females are more likely to self-harm.

Deaths by suicide are going up and up and we all ache for an answer as to what we might do to try and save some of those lives. Most often there are no ‘signs’ – and if anything; how often have we heard; ‘he never seemed as happy or in better form.’

None of the greatest psychiatrists

can figure out any one reason for the ever-increasing tragedies in their line of work; and the rest of us continue to be left floundering around, trying to apply logical thinking to a profoundly illogical act. I have likened it to ‘a fatal heart attack of the brain.’

walls of the chapel. I know of cases where the corpse had to be waked in the yard of the nearest public house. Even today, suicide is a criminal offense in many countries. Both of these two examples are wrong, were wrong, and always will be wrong.

In the immediate aftermath of a death by suicide, there is another strand of the tragedy, which also bothers me a lot. If this opinion hurts anybody, I apologise: this would be the opposite of my intention; but there is a glaring point of view which I believe needs to be put out there.

But today the pendulum has swung too far in the opposite direction and todays self-killer, is being portrayed as a hero.

I refuse to refer to somebody who takes their own life as ‘the victim.’

The victims are the family and loved ones left behind – none more so, than the parents, brothers and sisters of the deceased. Their indescribable sense of loss is often compounded by suppressed feelings of guilt, shame and anger against the family member who did this to them.

This brings me to something, perhaps rather delicate, which has gone beyond the beyond and bothers me most of all. It is the OTT tributes being bestowed on the suicidal departed and as I shall try to explain, does more harm than good.

I am old enough to remember when a person who took their own life could not be ‘waked’ inside the

We are the envy of the world with regard to how we do funerals in Ireland. It is about sharing the grief and comforting the family … but something has gone badly wrong with suicide funerals.

The deceased is canonised from the pulpit; social media posts strive to outdo each other; hyping up their friend as the greatest human being of all time, and the tribute in the newspaper will give glowing references way and above what if the person had died from natural causes.

The shock effective probably fuels this modern glorification of taking one’s own life.

This OTT praise only adds to the guilt of the next of kin with waves of shame as in ‘how could we have let this happen.’ More deadly of all; especially when the death is a young person; other vulnerable people of a similar age, see and hear about this glorious passing, being centre-stage and having such

wonderful words said about you.

How often is one such suicide followed by one or two more within a short spate of time?

The priest would do better by stating that the person in the coffin should not be there, only for suffering a catastrophic illness of the brain - something that only God can understand.

The rest of the sermon should be about comforting the family and asking the congregation to give love and support.

EUROPE’S ICY ROADS TO RECEIVE 100,000 TONS OF SALT FROM TORREVIEJA he sea campaign from the Torrevieja’s Poniente breakwater got underway this week with the loading of a 9,000-ton Norwegian merchant ship bound for the United Kingdom, with similar exports expected to continue for the next three months.

T

The main use of this bulk salt, extracted from the pink lagoon in recent months, is to combat ice and snow which is beginning to accumulate on roads, paths, streets and accesses to homes across Europe.

As Atlantic fronts have been sweeping the Europe since October, many countries have already begun to use last year's reserves which they will need to replenish for the winter ahead.

The New Leasing Company of the Salinas de Torrevieja (NCAST) has recently stated that it expects to export up to one hundred thousand tons for its regular clients in the northern European market which will be put to the

same use. Loading a bulk cargo merchant ship takes approximately 24 hours, with this week’s consignment expected to be followed by similar deliveries in the coming weeks.

When the need for salt in volume and quality for roads is pressing, Torrevieja's offer is always attractive in a competitive market. Indeed, Torrevieja can provide sea salt for de-icing that releases much less residue on the surface than rock salt. And, above all, the port can guarantee a loading period of just one day for shipments of five thousand tons and two for more than ten thousand, through the technology that allows salt to be transported directly from the storage area to the Poniente dock, with a pneumatic conveyor belt.

The average number of annual loads of salt exported from the dock operated exclusively by the salt mine is about 100 ships.

Those who love to post sensational messages on social media might be discouraged from doing so.

Whether the departed be a famous singing star, or the young lad who used to fish down by the lake; the newspaper coverage should be a short and dignified mention and a bit more about the good family left behind.

DON’T FORGET No one is dead as long as he is remembered by someone.

Ship waiting to be loaded with salt at the Poniente Dock in Torrevieja

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

PAILEBOTE PASCUAL FLORES RETURNS TO TORREVIEJA

www.theleader.info

PAGE 9

Spanish ports, as Torrevieja’s floating maritime and cultural museum and a symbol of classic sailboats.

During 2023 it has travelled more than 4,000 nautical miles, having visited 22 cities in Spain, France, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Holland, Germany and Portugal, and has taken part in many important events and Maritime Festivals of tall ships, in European ports such as Rouen (France), Amsterdam (Holland) and Bremerhaven (Germany).

It has been an extraordinary tour in which the Pascual Flores has found a great media and public interest, receiving nearly 30,000 visitors, who have boarded this classic

he Pascual Flores was back in

visited by the public.

Mediterranean sailboat, where they have been able to learn about its history and the fabu-

Torrevieja on Monday morning,

This historic ship, built in Torrevieja in 1917, thus returns to the place of its birth, concluding the successful tour it has made this year through many European and

lous maritime heritage, and of Torrevieja shipbuilding.

T

having docked at the Puerto Deportivo Marina Salinas, where,

from 29 November to 29 January, it can be

During its stay at the Puerto Deportivo Marina Salinas, the pailebote can be visited by the public, who will be able to walk across the wooden decks of this imposing ship, tour its cabins, learn about its fabulous history and what life is like on board for its crew members.

PAGE 10

www.theleader.info

TORREVIEJA TO HOST 2024 PUMP TRACK CHAMPIONSHIP The Spanish Royal Cycling Federation (RFEC) has published the schedule for the 2024 Pump Track Championship, which will be held in Torrevieja on 3 November 2024.

The championship will have six scoring events throughout next year, including in Barcelona and Huesca in April, Huesca in May, Pontevedra in June, and Almeria in September.

The Spanish Pump Track Cup has been gaining popularity in recent years, and the championship heading to Torrevieja will show some return on the investment the town has made in this sport modality.

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

RUNNING OUT OF LUCK

A

customer of a gambling hall in San Javier asked for the assistance of a Local Police patrol to help him recover the 380 euro he had lost playing fruit machines, because, according to the “victim”, he was prohibited from entering the establishment, but the staff allowed him to, and had they done their duty in preventing his entry, he would never have lost his money.

It wasn’t this cheeky young gamblers lucky day

However, things didn´t quite go according to plan, and his bad luck was set to continue, as the police officers discovered that he had a prison sentence outstanding issued by a court in Lorca for a crime against road safety, for drunk driving, and so, as well as losing his money, he was promptly arrested.

The man was handed over to the Guardia Civil and the games room did not refund his losses.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

www.theleader.info

PAGE 11

ORIHUELA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCE OPENING IN CABO ROIG The opening should be good news for the Costa’s business community

DRESSING UP FOR CHRISTMAS

The Orihuela Chamber of Commerce is moving to the coast as it prepares to open a new office in Orihuela Costa.

The president, Mario Martínez, announced the plan during a celebration of the Oriola Economy Night in La Lonja on Thursday, at a gala in which awards were made to local businesses.

He said that the Chamber of Commerce, situated in Centro Comercial Cabo Roig, in a building previously occupied by La Caixa Bank, will not only provide valuable advice and services to companies in the area, but it is also born with the vocation of creating synergies between the business fabric across the entire municipality. "It will serve

our most economically dynamic territory, which is Orihuela Costa," Martínez said.

The event was also attended by the president of the Generalitat, Carlos Mazón, and the president of the Alicante Provincial Council, Toni Pérez, along with the mayor of Orihuela, Pepe Vegara.

In preparation for Christmas in Torrevieja, the Councillor for Commerce, Rosario Martínez Chazarra, has announced that the application period for businesses that want to participate in the 20th Christmas Window Dressing Contest which will be open until 13 December.

All small and medium-sized businesses in the municipality that decorate a window or façade with a Christmas theme can enter for the 5,000 euro worth of prizes.

Registrations can be made through the electronic office at thelink below: https://torrevieja.sedelectronica.es/info The competition is intended to encourage investments by Torrevieja merchants into the aesthetics and image of their establishments and, therefore, the improvement of the

visual quality of them and of Torrevieja at Christmas.

Rosario Martínez has said that the judges withl make their decision during the week of December 12, which will then be announced before Christmas.

The prizes, which total 5,000 euros, will consist of: First prize of 1,000 Euro.

Second prize of 800 Euro.

Third prize 500 Euro.

Nine further prizes of 300 Euro.

As a mandatory requirement to enter, you must be up to date with your tax obligations to Social Security and AEAT, as well as with the Torrevieja Council.

The councillor said that she hopes all Torrevieja establishments will take part in the competition that will boost local commerce in difficult times.

PAGE 12

www.theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Levante Veterans donations benefit Samaritans and AACC

Members of the Levante Veterans Association visited the head office of the Samaritans in Spain on Saturday where they made a donation of 500 euro to the Punta Marina based charity. The money was raised by the collection taken at the recent Remembrance Service held in Mil Palmeras.

The contribution was received by the Vice President, Les Holloway, who took the opportunity to outline some of the work carried out by the Samaritans locally from where a team of listeners continue to answer calls, providing a confidential listening service between 10am and 10pm every day.

Les also presented a certificate of appreciation to Levante Veterans in gratitude of their bequest.

Samaritans in Spain is available

to provide confidential emotional support for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which may lead to suicide.

centre, outside which the presentation of the monies was made by Jean Heald and Eddie Coleman.

The AACC provide subsidised mammograms, prostate checks and cancer screen-

ing at the IMED Hospital in Torrevieja. They are now also able to provide a dermatology service with a skin scan. Should you require more info please get in touch by email at: aacc.campoverde@hotmail.com

The service is offered via FREEPHONE 900 525 100 to call when you have feelings that need to be expressed in order to protect your wellbeing. Samaritans want to help you to feel empowered - to take back some control.

On Wednesday the Association made a further donation of 500 euro to the AACC in Campoverde, as a contribution toward their research and early detection cancer screening service. The Veterans met with the local President Julie Hobbs and a number of her volunteers from the Charity Shop, situated behind the village medical

FREE FESTIVE BAND CONCERTS The Costa Blanca International Concert Band gave it's first, very successful, concert at the end of October in San Miguel. This was followed by the popular annual Remembrance Day Service in Mil Palmeras Church, to a congregation of hundreds.

MARINA BAR CHRISTMAS FAYRE SUCCESS Christmas Fayre at the Marina Bar was yet another outstanding success, raising money for "Age Concern". The Fayre opened with "Costa Blanca International Band" playing familiar Christmas carols and setting the scene for a fun afternoon.

Various stalls opened, selling gifts, decorations, cakes, paintings etc. and patrons had the chance to win wines and spirits on the "Tom Booza” participate in the Raffle and try to name the bear with a chance to win him.

At four o'clock Santa paid a visit to see the children and hand out gifts, some children sitting on his lap looking rather like adults but who cares it is coming up to Christmas after all.

The event raised a very acceptable 1,300 Euros for the charity and organizers David and Lorraine Whitney were more than pleased with the result which matched previous years. A big thank you must go out to the new team at the bar, Steph, Dawn, Hayley and Mason who worked their socks off at this, their first Christmas Fayre, running the bar.

Thanks to, to Mary Flynn and to

David and Lorraine

Last weekend the band played for Christmas Fayres at the Rolling Pin, Quesada and the Marina Bar, Torrevieja, both of which were very well attended.

Moving into December the band has already played at the Oasis Bar and the Madhouse and is now looking ahead to the rest of the month in which Christmas carol concerts are planned for: Thursday 7th. December, Tesco, Quesada 12 noon Friday 8th. Dec, Quesada Fish and Chips 5pm, Sunday 10th. and 17th. Dec, Zoco Market 11am, Saturday 16th. December, 'Carols in the Square, Pilar de la Horadada 12 noon

Margaret Forshaw for their generous donations and to all those people who kindly donated to this event, you are all very much appreciated. The next event on the Marina Bar's calendar organized

by David and Lorraine is the ever popular "Mingle Bells" on Fri.15th Dec at 2pm which is booking up very fast.

Consisting of a two course Christmas lunch, raffle, quiz and spot prizes it is sure to be another fun afternoon. Tel 965 70 5907 for further details.

Finally, all the very best to Rita and Dave Monaghan who ran the bar for eighteen years making many friends along the way. Good luck, health and happiness for the future.

Monday 18th. Dec, Tesco, Quesada 12 noon Tuesday 19th. Dec, Captains Table, Punta Prima 7pm, Thursday 21st. December, Emerald Isle, La Florida with Stevie Spit 3pm.

These are just some of the dates we have. You will also see us playing carols in other bars and restaurants during the month, we look forward to seeing you.

The band is now totally international with musicians from Spain, Norway, Germany and the UK. We are always looking for more players to join us, contact Graham on 711056343 or email robinsongraham256@googlemail.com. Alternatively, just come to one of our rehearsals. We rehearse every Friday, downstairs at the library in San Miguel from 4.30pm.to 7pm, where you will be made very welcome.

The Costa Blanca International Concert Band

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

THY WILL BE DONE

office@theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

• If they are not married and have children, those children will automatically inherit everything.

In fact - EVERY ONE of the above statements is false.

Many British Expats believe at least one of the following: • Their Will made in the UK covers their Spanish assets.

• If they have no Will and are married with children, their spouse will inherit everything first.

• A Spanish Will made before 2012 will still guarantee their wishes will be able to be

PAGE 13

THE IMPACT OF NOT HAVING A SPANISH WILL ON YOUR SPOUSE AND FAMILY adhered to.

Paul Blackmoore (Practice Principal) with little helper Benny, his rescue French Bulldog

www.theleader.info

Let’s go through this step by step then: 1. A Will made in the UK is not able to deal with Spanish assets effectively.

It would firstly need to be written containing a Brussels IV Regulation EU no 650/2012 succession clause stating that the law of either; England and Wales Scotland Northern Ireland The Isle of Man Or Guernsey and Jersey Should govern the succession of the testator’s estate and then, upon death, the Will would need to be translated into Spanish and be sent to have an apostille attached.

It’s much simpler to arrange a notarised Spanish Will, written in both Spanish and English, containing a Brussels IV clause that will guarantee your wishes for your Spanish estate will be able to be carried out.

2. If you do not have an up-to-date Spanish Will in place and are married with children, your spouse will not inherit all of your estate under Spanish law.

The way your estate will be divided is as follows: Your spouse would inherit a Life interest only (called an usufructo) in 1/3rd of your estate.

The other 2/3rds will get divided equally between your children.

The children then inherit the 1/3rd that your spouse had a life interest in when the surviving spouse dies.

Just having a life interest in 1/3rd of an estate is clearly not what the majority of married Expats want for their spouse after they die, which is why arranging a new Spanish Will choosing the law of your home nation to govern the succession of your estate and clearly setting out your wishes is so vitally important.

3. Spanish Wills made before 2012 will not have a Brussels IV clause in them allowing you to choose the law of your home country to govern the succession of your estate.

This means your wishes will not be able to be adhered to and in many cases, EVEN Wills written after this time refer to: British Law or UK Law, neither of which exist, only the law of the home jurisdictions listed exist as legal entities, so it is much better to ensure that you update your Will to ensure your wishes regarding who receives your estate when you die are able to be carried out without any issue.

4. If you are not married and own a property jointly with a partner, that partner will NOT own the whole property when you die.

Your half of the property would be inherited equally by any children or by any surviving parents if you had no children, and, if no surviving parents or children, then your siblings and/or your nephews and nieces would inherit your share of the property.

Obviously, it is important that your wishes are able to be complied with when you die and with our Wills startE including iva, now is ing at just 99E the ideal time to call us on 865 756 058 to get yours sorted out properly and legally.

PAGE 14

www.theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 999

ACROSS 1.

Comfort (11)

DOWN 2.

Aged (3)

9.

Help (3)

3.

Vision (5)

10.

Be dissipated (2,2,5)

4.

Small (6)

11.

Dim (5)

5.

Approaching (7)

13.

Trucks (7)

6.

Stubborn (9)

14.

Spotted (6)

7.

Lukewarm (4-7)

16.

Attack (6)

8.

Non-stop (11)

18.

Breathe (7)

12.

Unemotional (9)

19.

Clothing (5)

15.

Gourmet (7)

20.

Manners (9)

17.

Feverish (6)

21.

The lot (3)

19.

Live (5)

22.

Unprotected (11)

21.

Donkey (3)

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

Solution on Page 22

QUICK ACROSS: 1 Play; 3 Preserve; 9 Enabled; 10 Owner; 11 Modification; 13 Lavish; 15 Corner; 17 Unlikelihood; 20 Inurn; 21 Tighten; 22 Steadily; 23 Once.

DOWN: 1 Preamble; 2 Award; 4 Reduce; 5 Shortcomings; 6 Run down; 7 Earn; 8 Old-fashioned; 12 Prudence; 14 Venture; 16 Mental; 18 Often; 19 Hiss.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Trap; 3 Cucumber; 9 Adamant; 10 Dally; 11 Preponderate; 13 Edible; 15 Bridge; 17 Contraptions; 20 Chide; 21 Pensive; 22 Register; 23 Aged.

DOWN: 1 Trampled; 2 Amaze; 4 Untidy; 5 Underwriting; 6 Belated; 7 Rays; 8 Man of letters; 12 Bedstead; 14 Ironing; 16 Sample; 18 Owing; 19 Scar.

ACROSS 1. Take the infant for a walk round? (11) 9. Twenty-two vats containing eggs (3) 10. Homes were rebuilt in an unspecified place (9) 11. Approaches a listener in opposite directions (5) 13. If fishermen catch it, they get in a tangle! (7) 14. Outrageously show several topless! (6) 16. Timber and crude metal on the beach (6) 18. A moral consideration that may be dispensed with! (7) 19. Head of the delegation in rearranged tour of the royal house (5) 20. An expert in advising what courses to take (9) 21 and 6Dn. Removed from the register and not for publication (3,3,6) 22. Key workers have them at their finger-tips (11)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. What was the iconic movie poster tag line for the 1930 film 'Anna Christie'?

2. Which world-famous blonde was born in Willows Wisconsin?

3. With an estimated net worth of 2.5 billion dollars, who is the world's richest musician?

4. Gulliver's Travels. What was Gulliver's first name?

5. What were John Lennon's three posthumous number 1 hit singles in the UK charts?

6. Plus or minus 50, how many years does it take Pluto to orbit the sun?

7. Which three countries suffered the most civilian deaths in WWII? 8. Carpus is the Latin word for which part of the body?

9. According to Forbes, with a worth of 6.5 billionn USD,

DOWN 2. Christine Naughton's middle name (3) 3. They're stupid enough to make a valuation pointless at the end (5) 4. To cause perplexity, act as a patroness of the arts (6) 5. No service for the high churchman? (3,4) 6. See 21 Across.

7. National team not seen in town (11) 8. Could it be the skill of the inoculator (6-5) 12. Lady confused about a piece of poetry in an unfortunate way (9) 15. Inform somebody of a trophy, we hear (7) 17. No rise for one in top form (6) 19. It's held to be true palindrome (5) 21. Sounds like unrefined material for making a blade (3)

( A n s we r s o n p a g e 2 2 ) what is the most valuable sports team in the world today? a.

Dallas Cowboys, b. Real Madrid, c. New York Yankees, d.

Toronto Maple Leafs 10. Billy Blue, or Blue Boy, was a character in which popular 1960s TV western?

11. Which frozen treat is literally perfect?

12. With 6,961 metres, Aconcagua is the highest point in which country?

13. Moscow was once known as "The Third" what?

14. Which type of hat, worn by Indiana Jones, is named after a 19th century French play?

15. In song, which outlaw caused the womenfolk to hide and the men to step aside?

16. Which American outlaw was born Henry McCarty?

17. The following is a line from which 1991 Hollywood blockbuster? "Cancel the kitchen scraps for lepers and orphans, no more merciful beheadings, and call off Christmas."

18. Measured by the total length of rail lines in km., which six countries top the rail transport network list?

19. What are the four largest North American Indian tribes?

20. Plus or minus 25.84 cm, how long is the Statue of Liberty's index finger?

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

www.theleader.info

PAGE 15

PAGE 16

www.theleader.info

The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome. Phone or whatsapp the missionaries on 659 016 733 Join us at the SALT CHURCH Sundays at 10.30 am. We are a friendly church, bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship. Meets at Calle Daya Nueva 12, Polígono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. We look forward to meeting you. www.Saltchurchspain.

Facebook SaltChurchSpain International Christian Assembly, Calle Beniajan 14, Torrevieja -Evangelical Church. Sunday Service 11 a.m.; - Contact 966 799 273 / 660 127 276. Evangelical non-denominational church. www.icatorrevieja.org

The Car of the Month at AUTOMOVILES CRESPO is a very attractive 2019 Ford Focus ST-Line Hybrid at just 21,900 euro.

Come along to our large showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and

used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers.

See page 7.

We can assure you of the biggest and best choice of new and used cars in the area for price, choice and quality. ENGLISH SPOKEN

AGE CONCERN BEREAVEMENT GROUP. Have you lost somebody close to you? Are you finding life difficult after a bereavement? Come along and chat to other people in the same situation. Starting on October 10th, then every Tuesday from 2-4pm at the Age Concern Centre, Calle Paganini, La Siesta, Torrevieja. 96 678 6887.

Everyone is welcome.

Los Alcázares Digital Camera Club. Interested in photography? We invite you to come and join us at our twice monthly meetings. Please contact coordinatorladcc@ gmail.com or see http://www.los-alcazarescamera.club/ for details.

COMMUNITY CARE ASSOCIATION (CCA) Open to residents of Orihuela Costa over 60 years of age.

Located at the Centro Civico Alameda del Mar. Open 3 times a week for a programme of English speaking activities, support, informa-

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

tion and advice with the support of Orihuela Council.

Anyone wanting to join CCA social activities can pop along. Open 2pm -6pm Mondays and Thursdays, Wednesday 2pm - 5pm. You can register between 1pm & 2pm on those days, in the Cafe area where you will find Eva or Norah. email: communitycare@gmail.com RAGS CLUB (previously Friendship Centre). Every Tuesday Lunchtime, From a Bun to a Banquet. At Graceys - upstairs La Zenia park in Lidl Carpark.

COME AND PLAY RUMMIKUB. Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you with problem solving and well being for the over 50’s. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Home Visiting Team to visit a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee. Call into our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887. Or email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch now meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 5pm at the Lakeview bar/restaurant, Quesada. For more info contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on +44 7576 117 222, Secretary Steve Hemingfield 0n Mob/Whats 711 011 373 The RAFA Costa Blanca RMG is a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Assn.

Contact with the RAFA and the RMG is via the RAFA website rafa.org.uk.

LOOKING FOR Silent Business Partner for small

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

Private Care Home. Invest 10K and get 20K back in 14 months. Call 747 438 225

Law Services: PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR, Solicitor, Debt Collections, Bad Tenants. 747 438 225

I am looking for an apartment to let. One or two bedrooms, fully furnished, one person only. Long term. Email brendan murphy: brendanmurphy609@gmail.com or call 00353 0872 586249

Several corgi buses boxed for sale. Also other items not with boxes. Los Montesinos.

Call 744 617 883

Cultured, chivalrous British senior, former British Military + Police. Seeks attractive independent lady with good sense of humour & living in Torrevieja.

Please reply to me at: jd526237@gmail.com’.

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS If you have items that are WANTED or FOR SALE, ANNOUNCEMENTS, NOTICES and suchlike, advertise them, to a maximum of 35 words, FREE OF CHARGE, on this page.

SEND BY EMAIL TO:

office@theleader.info

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

www.theleader.info

PAGE 17

WHAT IS A VOLUNTARY ITV? f you have a foreign registered vehicle, the mandatory vehicle inspection must be done in the country where the vehicle is registered. So, for example, if you have a UK registered vehicle, you must get your MOT done in the UK.

I

There is sometimes confusion because a number of people have taken their cars to Spanish ITV stations and undergone an ITV test. This is most likely true, but the difference is it is what is known as a voluntary ITV and is not legally binding.

You can take any vehicle at any time to an ITV station, and they will inspect it, but even for Spanish registered vehicles, this voluntary ITV is beneficial as a preventive tool, but it does not affect the expiration date of the periodic and mandatory ITV. The Spanish Association of Collaborating Entities of the Administration in the Technical Inspection of Vehicles, AECA-ITV, explain that one of the preventive measures that drivers have to guarantee the correct functioning of their vehicle systems before making a long journey, such as before the Christmas holidays for example, is the voluntary ITV.

It is a type of technical inspection that can be completed (if the interested party so requests), such as the one that is carried out on a mandatory and periodic basis for all vehicles, or partial, which means that only correct operation of a specific element or system of the vehicle is checked, for example, the brakes, steering or emissions.

These types of inspections usually have a lower cost than a periodic and mandatory ITV and do not affect its expiration date. It does however offer peace of mind before undertaking a road trip.

Likewise, the voluntary ITV can also be of great help when purchasing a second-hand vehicle. It is a tool that allows the buyer to be assured that the car you are going to acquire is in good condition and allows the seller to offer a guarantee of the proper functioning of the vehicle.

On some occasions, used cars can present complex problems that are not detected with the naked eye and that can only be seen through a complete check such as that carried out by ITV stations, which includes: the engine, the lighting, the brakes, the emissions,

A voluntary ITV is not legally binding. among other systems. Also, through this type of inspection, it can be detected, for example, if the vehicle has any non-legalised reform.

Of course, with this type of voluntary inspec-

tion, you should know that if any serious or very serious defect is detected, you will still have to get that fixed immediately, and then return to the ITV station to verify that it has been corrected.

PAGE 18

www.theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

ORIHUELA TOURISM DECEMBER ROUTES Orihuela Tourism has published its December tourist routes as it says goodbye to 2023 and looks ahead to Christmas and a spirit of solidarity.

SURPRISE

By John McGregor

both E Dreams and Ryanair – and slept soundly.

Big bad surprise: first thing next morning email in from robbing Ryanair. ´Facial recognition´ is required on both flights. The problem immediately was the awful facial recognition site proved extremely difficult to both access and then operate.

Eventually I took on the terrible Ryanair online ´help´ department who (another surprise) proved very unhelpful and merely advised me to keep trying. Another big surprise then reached me to discover that on the previous Friday the BBC had launched an attack on Ryanair on their ´Rip-off Britain´ programme. It featured two separate ladies who had lost their flights and money, one because she couldn’t access the site like me, and another whose first details Ryanair said didn’t match the second – and Ryanair wouldn’t help - surprise!

Utterly infuriated and under pressure to ensure we got there I changed my outgoing flight to Easyjet, – and no surprise it went through wonderfully.

‘The Hippy-style party went with a swing’ - ( brother and sister) urprises – do you like them? Giving or receiving? Well… it all depends, doesn’t it?

S

I looked at my phone with sheer disbelief.

The morning-after-booking message from Ryanair said my booking was with a third party they had no agreement with and as such, for both flights to and from the UK I now had to complete new facial recognition with Ryanair – not doing so costs €50 per person per flight = €200.

Oh right, here we go again – good old Ryanair, the airline that I had violently sworn to dissociate myself with for such similar stunts several years ago – so how come this had happened - again?

Big earlier surprise - several months ago my lovely niece advised me that in the UK she and her sister were putting on a surprise 70th birthday party for their Mum. That´s my little sister that I´m close to and very proud of, as several years ago she was deservedly awarded the MBE for teaching.

One of the award perks is that you can get married in St Paul’s Cathedral - not the big one but a smaller chapel – and she did, remarrying in 2017. All the family came and afterwards the reception was on a boat that toured up and down the Thames, it was a fantastic day.

So now, six years later there´s going to be another big party – ah, but sis doesn’t know so Mum´s the word. As my wife and I are in contact with her and her husband at least every few days it proved very difficult to keep her from knowing that we would soon

be on our way. Cards, presents, all things like that proved difficult to manage.

Yes, agreed, I dithered for quite a while about how long to go over for, where would we stay (we usually stay with them), but my other niece, sis´s eldest daughter and family had already arranged to stay with them for the birthday weekend. But the organizing niece said we could stay at her place, and there´s always nearby hotels. We´ve done that with our other children at various times where space and comfort can be a bit strained.

Another surprise: after several heavy domestic negotiations (it´s called married life), I sat down at my computer and typed in ´e´ for EasyJet (my current travelling partner for the last few years).

To my surprise ´Where Do You Want to Fly From?´ immediately popped up, and following the Yellow Brick Road I typed in my requested travelling details – and to my pleasant surprise virtually all I required was available, there and back to the UK over 5 days for the princely sum of €220.

I confirmed all this with she who needed to know, and I was just about to book when I noticed a small note that said the flights were with ´E Dreams´ – and the carrier was Ryanair. The E for E Dreams got in there before Easyjet I now realized. But hey, I´d flown with Ryanair before hadn’t I – what could go wrong? Somewhat strangely it then took me three attempts to pay E Dreams, VISA didn’t want to know – hmm… So I paid via my bank, that went through.

I soon had confirmation of both flights from

On the day our flight to the UK started badly, we were an hour late leaving Alicante and it was throwing it down when we reached Bristol. Just like Alicante there was no direct airbridge access to the terminal, and we got soaked crossing to the building from the aircraft. My son (I knew he´d come in handy one day) picked us up from the airport in his snazzy new electric car.

However the plan to surprise my sister was not going well as we had been delayed en route. We seemed to be catching up on the motorway when my boy casually announced we needed a loo break – oh, and to charge the electric car.

Excuse me? Charge the car? How long? ´About 30 minutes´ was the cool reply. So back to well behind schedule, fabulous this new technology…

Success! We duly surprised my sister, the party went off brilliantly and despite the cold, wet weather everything fell into place - looking back I´m surprised it did.

There´s one more bit to add to the saga.

Before we left Spain I was talking to a friend who had successfully negotiated the facial recognition high hurdle to book with Ryanair via a third party airline.

Yes, it took him time and patience he told me, but after a few attempts he had managed it – so could I? I still had to negotiate us back from the UK so taking a brave pill I attacked the facial recognition site for the return flight with grim determination.

It took three attempts but to my amazement I achieved it. The return flight was packed, few attendants (unlike Easyjet) to help anyone although we made it home OK. But surprise, surprise, I will definitely not be going anywhere near Ryanair again – and I mean it this time…

The main focus this month is the “Canine Solidarity Route” which will take place on Sunday, December 10, leaving at 10:30 a.m. in San Bartolomé. There will be a walk with the dogs from the ASOKA shelter, a donation of 5 euros will be made and products destined for Cáritas will be collected.

Another route showing Christmas solidarity will be that of “Miguel Hernández. His Life and work” (December 16 at 11 a.m. departing from Plaza del Carmen). In it, products for Cáritas will again be collected (we especially appreciate long life milk, oil and clothing for adults).

The “Nativity Scenes with Tourist Train” will visit all the nativity scenes in Orihuela. This involves a small cost of 4 euros for adults and 3 euros for children under 12 years of age. This activity will take place in La Lonja on December 23 (at 11:30 a.m.) and December 26 (at 4:30 p.m.).

Do remember that places are limited and that reservations need to be made through the website www.orihuelaturistica.es.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

poll shows 21% but Palestinians didn’t agree with the slaughter, but they have accepted generations of hateful indoctrination against the Jews and other infidels. T hey shelter and allow terrorists to set up bases and rocket launchers from hospitals, schools, and apartment buildings to fire rockets indiscriminately on civilians in Israel, many of whom are Arabs. Peace-loving people wouldn’t allow or condone these war crimes.

By Raymond Kearney ur most cherished freedom as adults in 2023 is our freedom to choose. We are free to choose what we say, who we love, where we work, what God we serve, what politicians we vote for, how we spend our money and where we want to live.

O

We take our lifestyle for granted but we are on the brink of losing all our freedoms in the next couple of decades due to the unprecedented growth in support for Communist dictators and fanatic Islamic extremists.

Communism is not confined to the last century. There are millions who support Vladimir Putin’s Russia invading Ukraine in February 2022. In November 2023 some Spaniards supported Pedro Sanchez’s Communist government get back into power by illegally giving an amnesty to those who tried to destroy the Spanish constitution in 2017.

Iran’s government, Hezbollah, ISIS, and Hamas, are terrorists, and we shouldn’t be deceived that they want peace for their people, they don’t want peace, they want war, they want a totally Islamic world forced on everyone without freedom of choice. They openly advocate the total annihilation of every Jewish man, woman, and child. Last month, President Erdogan of Turkey, a predominantly Muslim country and fierce critic of Israel predicts that Israel will soon be destroyed.

In 2007, Hamas took control of Gaza following an election the year before where they gained 44% of the vote. Since then, the Palestinians have controlled Gaza.

Israel began withdrawing their people and troops in September 2005 and were completely gone from there by June 2007. Since then, Hamas have ruled Gaza unhindered and received over 40 billion$ in aid (1994-2020), yet they have consistently rejected having their own state.

Hamas, who represent the Palestinians, do not want a state, they want the entire Jewish homeland (from the river to the sea) but most importantly, they want the total annihilation of the Jews, Since June 2007 Christians, and infidels, there and Hamas have ruled worldwide.

One country after another is run by NarcoCommunist governments in central and south America. These examples show the growing reckless support for communist dictatorship on our doorstep.

These dictatorships do not care about our or anybody’s rights.

They take what they want. They Gaza unhindered To a devout Muslim, anyone do not care about public opinion, and received over non-Muslim is an Infidel. To the world economy or the rule of Islamic extremists the ethnic 40 billion $ in aid cleansing of Infidels is acceptable. law and they certainly don’t care about our freedom to choose.

You may shrug your shoulders Dictators only care about themselves, and they but consider Pakistan’s experience where 25% will destroy anyone who gets in their way. of the population were non-Muslim 75 years Islam is the fastest growing religion; world-wide Muslims will outnumber Christians this century.

The Muslims I know are lovely people. We should all respect their right to worship God (Allah) as they choose.

All religions deserve that same right. We cannot allow any individual or group take freedom of choice away from others. Islam is a very intense religion, and very many Muslims are devoted to the total world dominance of Islam. We would then be bound by sharia law, our only choice will be slavery or death, look at Iran or Afghanistan.

Last month the Birzeit University near Ramallah published a survey of Palestinian opinion. More than 75% of Palestinians supported the October 7th slaughter in Israel, 75% also want the total annihilation of Israel. 97% hate Britain and 98% hate the US. This poll shows that the narrative the media feed us, that Hamas do not represent the Palestinian people is optimistic at best.

Of course, there are peaceful Palestinians, the

ago and today the total of all non-Muslims together is less than 3%.

In Iran Muslim women are beaten and jailed for not covering their heads. In Afghanistan Muslim women are denied education and jobs.

It seems that in Islam, a woman’s role is to be to bear children, cook and look after their men, the aged and children.

The LGBT+ community are enjoying amazing freedom and recognition in the western world now but that will come to an end in a few short years if Islam`s sharia law takes over in many European countries.

The hard-earned freedoms that Christians, women, LGBT+ and even conservative Muslims enjoy now will quickly disappear.

Blasphemy laws, morality police, and jihadists will become our worst nightmare.

Imagine what happened in southern Israel happening in Orihuela Costa, Leeds or Dublin, remember, to these extremists, we and our young families are infidels.

www.theleader.info

PAGE 19

PAGE 20

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

www.theleader.info

SUCCESSFUL WEEK FOR VISTABELLA

BY RICHARD WILLEY South Alicante Enterprise Division - Vistabella Albatrosses v San Miguel Dolphins (home match). Good wins for Olwyn Ratcliffe, Stuart Allman & Brian Dunn 20- 13 also Derek Howe, Don Conlon & Maggie Furness 30- 8.

Overall scores 86 - 84 to Vistabella ending with a 6-6 draw. Close game.

South Alicante Discovery Division - Vistabella Drivers v El Rancho Raiders (away match). Very good wins for Jennifer McDonald, Tony Grimes & John Ridley 19-10, Frank Barclay, Jeff Neve & Graham Doel 20-14 plus Clive Smith, Avril Kendall & Steve Wilson 17-15. Overall scores 82 - 79 to El Rancho. Game ending in a 6-6 draw.

Winter league - Vistabella v San Miguel (home match) Great performance from Vistabella bowlers beating the top of the league team. Wins by Derek Howe, Keith Black, Don Conlon & Maggie Furness 28-14, Hilary James, Alice Howe, Sue Wilson & Alan Bannister 20-12 plus Barbara Brown, Mo. Foulcer, Arthur Brown & Martin Foulcer 29-9. Overall scores 93 - 52 giving Vistabella a well-deserved 8-2 win.

LLB Southern League Division B - Vistabella Picadors v

El Rancho Mustangs (home match).

Started very windy and difficult to play for all bowlers but eventually Vistabella managed to take control of the game. Good wins on all rinks, John Goddard, Alan Bannister & Paul Durham 21-11, Peter Westwood, Barbara Brown & Arthur Brown 20-9, Alice Howe, Mo. Foulcer, & Sheila Westwood 28-17, Hilary James, Freddie Willey & Derek Stevenson 20-11 plus Keith Black, Don Conlon & Maggie Furness 27-9. Overall scores 116-57 giving Vistabella a 12-0 win.

LLB Southern League Division C Vistabella Conquistadors v Greenlands Elms (away match).

Another good performance from our players. Clive Smith, Dave Hill & Stan Dibble 15-12, Rosemary Savage, Ken Savage & Sue Wilson 14-14 and Peter Cadwell, John Ridley & Alan Gordon 18-11.Overall scores 79 - 77 giving Vistabella a 7-5 win.

A great week two draws and three wins well done to all Vistabella bowlers; teamwork pays off.

Contact: richardwilley321@gmail.com. Tel: 698 925 932

COUNTRY BOWLS CLUB

By Peter Dix

Country Bowls Club continue to compete in all leagues, on Monday 27th a setback with Flamingos and Ravens losing and Seahawks drawing at home.

In the Alicante Southern League Discovery Division on 27th November the Flamingos travelled to Greenlands to play the Maples, not an easy task and despite some close games only came away with 2 points. The winning rink was Della Wailes, Steve Wailes and Tom Macdonald, 20-19. Meanwhile the Seahawks were at home to San Miguel Orcas and a close game was had resulting in 6 points each maintaining top position. Top rink was Del Gunning, Phil Newman, Peter Whitehall 33-7, overall 87-81.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

SAN LUIS BOWLS - SHEILA CAMMACK South Alicante League: Monday 27th SL Trekkers had a great result at home v Country Bowls Ravens, shots 98-67, 10 points-2. Winners: Joy Gardiner, Florence Murphy, Jean Cooper 18-15, Stuart Wilson, Jane & Stewart Hamill 21-15, Bill Webb, Cas Blay, Jim Gracie 24-11, Chris Jackson, Ralph Jones, Vic Mahomet 23-8.

SL Klingons also had a great result at home to Quesada Pearls, 10 points-2, 91 shots-71. Winners: Margaret & Neil Morrison, Ian Kenyon 27-15, Dee Hoey, Caroline & John Smyth 16-12, Neil & Sandra Burrows, Dave Webb 15-8, Jan Pocock, June & Keith Jones 19-14.

The SL Vulcans fought hard, away at San Miguel Marlins, winning on 2 rinks but taking the shots 85-75, points 6-6. Winners: Jill Wyatt, Tony Ferreira, Steve Gray 22-10, Ken Stringfellow, Jim Gwyn, Maxine Wright 25-10.

SL Romulans had a tough match away v San Miguel Stingrays 4 points-8, 74 shots-89. Winners: Catherine & Noel Morrisroe, Barbara Louis 15-12, Judy Carroll, Gordon Paton, Dave Blackie 23-19.

Winter League: Wednesday 29th San Luis at home v Javea Green/Calpe had a close match, winning 2 games each but taking the points 6-4, shots 80-66. Well done to: Cathy Morrisroe, Bill Webb, Noel Morrisroe, Scott Malden 24-16, Trish Reilly, Keith Phillips, Pat Reilly, Dave Webb 28-17.

Southern League: Friday 1st SL Tigers, at home to Country Bowls Panthers, had a real nip & tuck match, with both sides fighting hard for every end and keeping spectators on the edge of their seats, finishing 8 points-4, shots 82-81. Winners: Joy Gardiner, Jane Hamill, Jean Cooper 17-16, Bill Webb, Florence Murphy, Jim Gracie 21-14, Chris Jackson, Ralph Jones, Vic Mahomet 15-14.

SL Lions were away v San Miguel Apaches and although they put up a good fight, it didn’t go exactly as planned, finishing 4 points-8, 86 shots-89. Winners: Kath Reid, June & Keith Jones 18-16, Neil & Sandra Burrows, Dave Webb 22-8.

SL Pumas away v San Miguel Cherokees, had a good result; taking 8 points-4, 82 shots-77. Winners: Sue Kenyon, Ken Stringfellow, Derek Biggs 26-11, Don Reid, Tony Ferreira, Steve Gray 14-12, Lesley & Wayne Howlett, David Whitworth 17-13.

SL Leopards at home to Monte Mar Matadors, had a close fought game; winning on 2 rinks and taking the shots 93-79, points 6-6. Well done to: Kevin McKenna, Derrick Cooper, Lyndon Johnson 25-9, Judy Carroll, Gordon Paton, Dave Blackie 26-8.

In the Voyager League the Ravens visited the San Luis Trekkers and found it hard going, winning on a single rink 2-10, 67-98.

Top rink was Jo Richardson, David Smith and Graham Richardson.

In the Winter League on Wednesday the Caballeros travelled to Quesada, also a hard place to go and get points and could only manage a draw on one rink, going down 1-9.

Graham Richardson 26-9.

In Division B the Panthers travelled to San Luis to play the Tigers, on this occasion they were out played and came away with 2 winning rinks, 4-8, losing by only 1 shot 81 to 82. Best rink was Jayne Storey, Jim Rennie, Kevin Storey 20-14.

In Division C the Cubs played at home in the afternoon against the Emerald Isle Outlaws, after a poor start they recovered with some fine bowling to win the game 10-2, 102-76. Top rink was Alvarro De Silva, Dave Banford and Sue King, 20-11.

In the Southern League we are into December and a on coldish day the Geckos entertained San Miguel Navajos, they gave us an early advantage with a team short and this was capitalised with 2 good wins and 2 close loses, giving us 8-4, and 84-54 As stated last week we are league free of on shots. Top rink was Shiela games due to byes, so this is the perfect Whitehall, Eric Bishop and opportunity to give state of play in the internal competitions.

La Marina Bowls Club

The semi-final of the drawn pairs will be Margaret Finlayson and Garth Slater v Trevor Hancock and Peter Parsons, the other game being Barry Roberts and Alex Whyte v Janet Parsons and Norman Ship. The semi-final of the ladies singles will be Margaret Finlayson v Marylyn Fryatt, and Lesley Joynes V Maureen Kidd. Late news this game has been played today resulting in a final between Margaret Finlayson and Maureen Kidd to be played on Finals Weekend. Well done to all the ladies some very good games.

The men's singles are not so far advanced,

but the draw has given a great opportunity for some tight games, Steve Wright v Peter Parsons, Len Daniels v Trevor Hancock, Garth Slater v Johnny Callaghan, Trevor Stemp v Norman Ship, Don Fowkes v Alex Whyte.

Lastly the mixed trips is at the quarter final stage Dave & Lesley Joynes with Len Daniels v Barry Roberts, Johnny Callaghan and Maryln Fryatt, Anne & Mike Stone and John Rae v Don and Jean Fowkes with Garth Slater, Margaret Finlayson, Margaret MacLaughlin and Alex Whyte v Norman Ship, Trevor Stemp and Shirley Hadaway.

Other competitions are still due to start but my advice to all is to study the board and watch as many games as possible, as knock outs are always very exciting.

Please make sure that the finals weekend of 15th & 16th March is in your diary.

Dave Hadaway

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

www.theleader.info

PAGE 21

QUESADA BOWLS CLUB WITH SUZI COOPER

Monday the Pearls were away at San Luis Klingons who did cling on to the points. The Pearls did get 2 thanks to Chris Brazier, Terry & Peter Morgan 22-14.

The Diamonds went to Emerald Isle Titans and came home with just 2 points thanks to Harald Olsen, Ken Gordon & Trevor Voisey 26-9.

Thankfully there was some good cheer from our Rubies who were at home to Greenlands Chestnuts.

Our Rubies managed to collect a good 8 pts which more than doubled their pts so far for the season. Wins

by Chrissie Edwards, Jackie Hughes & Lin Miller 2110, Pixie Turner, Linda Cole & Peter Bradbury 1716, Meurig Thomas, Carl Evans & Brian Miller 19-8.

On Wednesday the Winter League team played hosts to Country Bowls. With 3 wins, a daw & the overall it was their largest points tally so far. Winning

EL RANCHO BC On Monday the Raiders were at home to Emerald Isle Neptunes, with the usual tricky breeze, but we had a splendid morning’s bowls. Both teams took 2 rinks with the 5th drawn and Neptunes taking the overall shots by 2. A good result all round, played in good spirit and humour. Ria Dukker, Sheila Cox and Henry Ryder 23-17. Bill Johnston, Malc Sykes and Diane Yates 20-15. Ann Abbott, Tony Abbott and Marion Haynes 1224. Rose Passmore, Dave Giddings and Jim Eastwood 14-14. Jean Giddings, Derek Barker and Mike Cox 16-17.

Tuesday found the Raiders playing host to Vistabella

teams Allen Bowen, Suzi Cooper, Colin Highland & Gary Thorpe 23-16, Terry Morgan, Melanie Highland, Carol Thorpe & Peter Morgan 28-19, Ken Gordon, Brian Miller, Dave Collings & Trevor Voisey 20-14 with George Carnell, Linda Cole, Ray Cole & Lin Miller drawing 12-12.

Onto Friday & with the Swans already into their Christmas break it was down to the Swallows & Swifts. The Swallows were at home to Greenlands Oak. They managed to win on 2 rinks and losing the others by a totsl of 5 shots they collected the overall to share the points 6-6. Winning trips were Mel Highland, Colin Highland & Peter Morgan 17-12, Chris Brazier, Mark France & Carol Thorpe 26-10.

The Swifts travelled to Emerald Isle Claymores and managed just a draw thanks to Richard Lewin, Jackie Hughes & George Skinner 16-16.

Drivers, we had a splendid match and I, hopefully along with the rest of the team, had a very enjoyable morning. Most matches were very close and as we know whether you win or lose is as much to do with the draw for opponents as how you play. In the end the match came out a draw, with the Raiders taking two rinks and the overall shots to Drivers’ three rinks.

On Wednesday the Rowdies entertained Emerald Isle in the winter League and faced a pretty tough opponent but fared well in taking one rink.

Sheila Cox, Tony Abbott, Ann Abbott and Mike Cox 20-19.

Ria Dukker, Frances Johnston, Judy Foley and Bob Day 9-21.

Bill Johnston, Lesley Day, Pam Harris and Henry Ryder 14-15.

Derek Barker, Mike Higgins, Mags Higgins and Diane Yates 7-27.

Friday found the Mustangs at Vistabella playing the Picadores, it was a wild cold wind that swept the mat, making it difficult for everyone, I can’t recall seeing such a large spread of bowls in the head on every rink. It was a little easier later when the wind eased, but we still had to bowl very wide on one side. But we were in good company combatting the conditions. We did alas come away without a point but enjoyed the mutual challenge.

Bowlers of all levels are welcome at El Rancho, for further

membership info contact Sheila Cox at micksheilacox@gmail.com.

EMERALD ISLE BOWLS CLUB Titans started the week off by playing against Quesada Diamonds at home and they got a fine 102 Aggregate of 115-71. N Oakley I Grimshaw R Marks 41-7, including a HOT SHOT. G Wallis M Odell M Hartley 27-15, P Heaney G Odell D Mooney 20-10, Jones M Ellis B Kavanagh 18-13 Neptunes travelled to play at El Rancho Raiders and they came away with a good 7-5 Aggregate 87-85, J Sayers S Johnson K Jolliffe 24-12, C Thomas G Dyer K Barber 17-16, G Inwood I Laverick J Taylor drew 14-14 Moonrakers played at home against Greenlands Beech and they were beaten 2-10, Aggregate of 66101 M Mcllend A Gower E Shepperd 18-15 Emperors played at El Rancho in the Winter League

and came away with a good 8-2 Aggregate of 82-50 win, N Davis K Barber S Marks R Marks 21-9, S Kavanagh T Pridmore M Hartley B Kavanagh 22-7, N Prior M Ellis S Elvin C Lindgren 15-14

GREENLANDS BOWLS with Pearl Houghton The Maples were up against Country Bowls this week and secured a 10- 2 victory you are really piling on the pressure in the league keep the green flag flying high.

The Beech travelled to the Emerald Isle this week and were really on a mission and they certainly got their reward with 10-2 win so congratulations to the squad.

Claymores played at home against Quesada Swifts and got a fine 11-1 Aggregate of 96-77 win, I Laverick P Moore B Fenty 28-16, J Sayer J Fenty J Taylor 15-12, G Stritcht M Stritcht T Upham 20-19, S Ellis G Dyer K Barber 17-15, C Thomas B Eldred R Stockel drew 16 all

The CHESTNUTS were away to Quesada and found the opposition tough going but they dug in and gained 4 pts so well done.

Outlaws were at Country Bowls Cubs and got beaten 2-10 Aggregate of 76-102, D Mcclelland J Buxton M Munro 21-19

The Oaks were away to Quesada and had a very tough game indeed sharing the spoils 6-6 so all systems go next week.

The Gladiators were away up north this week to Benitachell to try their strength against strong opponents they were on all systems go and came away with an 8- 2 win so well done as this puts you on top of the leaderboard. Keep it going the green machine.

SAPS takes place on Sat at 13-15

The Elms played hosts to Vistabella this week and did very well with a 5-7 loss, losing overall by 1 shot, hard luck on a brave effort.

ELWYN MORRIS

No game for the Cedars this week with a bye.

SAN MIGUEL BOWLS CLUB Barry Jones On Monday morning San Miguel Marlins were home to San Luis Vulcans where they drew 6 - 6, 75 shots to 85.

Best winning triple were John Bolton, Mark Westmoreland and Mike Bayfield 20 - 12.

On Monday afternoon San Miguel Stingrays were home to San Luis Romulans winning 8 - 4, 89 shots to 74. Best winning triple were Pat Luijk, Ian Hope and Ken Guiney 21 shots to 9.

The two away teams both drew, San Miguel Orcas were away to Country Bowls Seahawks drawing 6 -6, 81 shots

to 87. Best winning triple were Alan Campbell, Tom Dalgleish and Frank Scotthern 23 - 9. San Miguel Dolphins were away to Vistabella Albatrosses drawing 6 6, 84 shots to 86. Best winning triple were Janet Parr, Allan Patterson and Fred Willshire 27 - 13.

On Wednesday San Miguel were away to Vistabella where they had a bad day at the office, losing 2 - 8, 52 shots to 93, the winning rink were Margaret Patterson, Allan Patterson, Derek Farmer and Mike Douglas 17 - 16.

On Friday San Miguel Navajos were away to Country Bowls Geckos where they lost 4 - 8, 54 shots to 84. The best winning triple were Bob Nesbitt, Dave Young and Mike Douglas 21 - 15.

A reminder that the Wasps sessions take place on Wednesdays at 1.30pm for 2.00pm - 5 for an afternoon’s bowling with shoes and bowls available to borrow. Due to the popularity of the Wasps, first time bowlers are asked to attend an initial coaching session on Tuesday afternoons, starting at 1.45pm, by appointment ONLY. To book, please call Dave or Lynn Greenland on +34 667 207 508.

We welcome all bowlers who would like to join San Miguel B.C. as we are a unique club we only pay owner fees and a club fee and NO LEAGUE RINK FEES. For further information on San Miguel B.C please contact club secretary Barry Jones on 602 504 905 or club president Alan Campbell on 606 676 118

PAGE 22

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

www.theleader.info

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

range. A bad miss by Calpe's front man Meji on 16 mins, was soon rectified, for from the very next attack, he crossed for Fede to level the scores. A disastrous defensive mix up in Thader's defence, gift wrapped Calpe's 2nd goal on the half hour mark. Juan almost presented Calpe with another goal on 36 mins, but only the skillful silky footwork of keeper Chema, worthy of a gifted winger, got his team out of trouble.

Inside 1st half stoppage time, Meji again put in another teasing cross, only this time, Fede failed to get onto the end of it.

CD Thader ...........2 CF Calpe .............2

There were strong appeals for a penalty on 48 mins, but although it did appear that a defender handled the ball inside Calpe's box, the match ref was having none of it. Not long on the pitch for Sergi, Thader sub Tremino made an instant impact, when under

With only 10 mins on the clock, a fine individual run at the defence by Sergi, resulted in the young Thader striker crossing the ball for Javi, who made no mistake from point blank

pressure, he managed to squeeze home a shot just inside the near post on 50 mins. Now it was all to play for, a signal for both teams to go for it hammer and tongs. Within seconds of the restart,Yuyo almost gave the hosts the lead, but his long-range effort was well saved

by Calpe's keeper, Cassius. Although Calpe were a team of giants, they weren't having it their own way, as Thader's snappy terriers were more than a match for them.

Next it was the turn of Chema to come to his side's rescue, when he pushed aside a goal bound effort on 66 mins, then from the resulting corner, he punched the ball to safety from under the cross bar. Full credit to the ref, for the first booking didn't arrive until 70 mins, a statistic which is a rarity in Spanish football.

The direct free kick by Pedro Juan was agonisingly wide, as Thader were not resting on their laurels. Up the other end, Calpe sub Cosmin headed wide of an open goal on 73 mins, much to the relief of a nail biting set of Thader fans.

With time ticking away, both teams defensive substitutions suggested that a draw would be acceptable, although the visitors probably finished the stronger of the two.

So, although Thader remain rooted to bottom spot on 8 points, they are slowly closing the gap to the pack just above them. There isn't any league football next weekend, but Thader will be in action on Wednesday 6 December, ko 4pm.

A 3 hour drive up to Castellon region awaits them, when they will encounter FC Odisea, who currently sit top of the preferente division, to play a La Nostra copa (Valencia regional cup) match.

Thader are in cup action on Wednesday night.

For regular updates on CD Thader, a visit to their facebook page is highly recommended.

Lo Crispin Golf at Altorreal On the 29th. November 26 members and 2 guests competed in the Society's penultimate game of the year, an Individual Stableford and the 4th. eclectic of this year's competition at Altorreal. Once again the sun shone and there was very little wind throughout the day. However, the conditions for playing golf, especially what we are used to in Spain, were spoiled by copious amounts of water on nearly every fairway, something myself and

most of the other players have not experienced before, playing golf in Spain. There were numerous places on the fairways, which were designated 'ground under repair' as a consequence.

Undoubtedly the above contributed greatly to the lower than usual scoring, especially in relation to our high handicap members. Following the game we returned to the Lo Crispin Tavern, where Tapas was supplied and the Day's prizes were distributed.

Gold Division: 1st Place - Richard Brady 30 pts off 15, 2nd Place - Dean Astley 29 pts off 18, 3rd Place - Andy Quinn 28 pts off 9

Ladybirds Gap Girlz Friendly Temps Dolly Mixtures

LEAGUE TABLE P Gap Girlz 2 Primadonnas 2 Friendly's Temps 2 Friendly's Chicas 2 Tipsy Tigers 2 Macklin's Dolly M 2 Ladybirds 1 Whacky Allsorts 1

A 9 16 20 22 23 26 14 18

F 30 27 23 21 20 18 8 1

Hot Darts League Format Week 2: Simone de Lacy (TT) 133, Monique Edelenbos (FT) 133, Julie Thompson (FT) 128, Julie Hallett (FC) 125, 120, Gail Murray (GG) 123, Pat Redwood (DM) 120, Mitch Halliday (PD) 114, Linda Curdy (FC) 110, Ann Wharton (FT) 109 x 2, Chris Greenwood (WA) 101, Sue Wade (FT) 101, Diane Burns (DM) 100 x2, Debbie de Grys (PD) 100 x2, Pat Schofield (TT) 100 x2, Bliss Wright (GG) 100 x2, Jane Barnes (WA) 100, Yvonne Rouffignac (GG) 100 Highest Check-out: Mitch Halliday (PD) 114.

This month 36 members went to Las Ramblas golf for the 3rd and final round of our Masters. The course was in a good condition and the majority of the players scored well.

Prizes were presented to the following winners: - NTP Hole 6 – Anders Wiman, NTP in 2 Hole 9 – Denis McCormack, NTP Hole 14 – Anders Wiman, NTP in 2 Hole 15 – Frederique Van der Linden, NTP in 3 Hole 18 – Ben Croft. All received a Voucher from Galaxy Golf.

The Best Net score on Hole 17 was Ben Croft, Net 3, who won a bottle of brandy, donated by Derek Fleet.

The Team Event was won by Russell Bailey, Ben Croft, Frederique Van der Linden and Rita Potters with a combined score of 98 pts (Best 3 from 4).

The winning team each received a 10 Galaxy Golf Voucher kindly sponsored

by Wayne Stevenson Main Prizes: Silver Div r/up Bob Chambers (32 pts) Silver Div winner Ben Croft (33 pts) Gold Div r/up Mike Fitzpatrick (32 pts) Gold Div winner Russell Bailey (35 pts) All won vouchers from the Lucky Lion.

Nigel Hardy, PGA teaching pro at Lo Romero golf is to sponsor our Captain Gary Armstrong with a free lesson at Lo Romero golf.

The Masters 2023 was won by Mike Fitzpatrick Thanks go to Galaxy Golf for their support this season The captain’s charity is Help at Home, and this year’s fund currently stands at e1978-00. Many thanks go to Sam Udell for her continued hard work.

Thanks also to the Lucky Lion for their continued support.

Next match 14th December, Sponsors Trophy at Las Colinas, followed by the Champions Dinner.

Silver Division: 1st Place - Alex McCartney 19 pts off 34 (on count back), 2nd Place - Barney Barningham 19 pts off 27 (on count back), 3rd Place - Paul Flanaghan 19 pts off 31 N.T. P. on Par 3s: Hole 5 - Bill Croft, Hole 8 - Dan Doyle, Hole 10 - Martin O'Keefe, Hole 17 - Jimmy Page. The 2's 'pot' was won by Bill Croft and the Free Game Draw by Steve Price.

The final game of the year at La Finca on 13th.

December will be a Texas Scramble.

Steve Harrington (Membership and Handicap

TORREVIEJA LADIES DARTS ORGANISATION League Format Week 2 Primadonnas 14 - 8 Wacky Allsorts 1 - 18 Tipsy Tigers 12 - 11 Friendly Chicas 13 - 10

office@theleader.info

AGS at LAS RAMBLAS

NEVER SAY DIE THADER EARN A VALUABLE POINT F

resh from a morale boosting last gasp victory in Alicante last weekend, the men from Rojales gave their all, to record a hardfought point. Calpe arrived at Moi Gomez stadium, lying 3rd place in the Community league, currently embarking on a good run of form. But, underestimate Thader at your peril, for Carlos Canales young side have suddenly come of age! Gone are the days when heads would drop as soon as the team leaked goals, seemingly having no backbone, having been replaced by a determined unit who are now playing as a team.

637 227 385

QUIZ FROM P 14:

Belated congratulations to Wacky Allsort Jane Barnes who scored her first ever 180 last week in the Founder Format match against Dolly Mixtures

1. Garbo Talks, 2.

Barbie, 3. Jay-Z, 4.

Lemuel, 5. Imagine, Woman and (Just Like) Starting Over, 6. 248 years, 7. In order: Soviet Union, China, Poland, 8. Wrist, 9. a.

Dallas Cowboys (as of 2023), 10. The High Chaparral, 11. Parfait, 12. Argentina, 13. "The Third Rome" 14.

Fedora, 15. Liberty Valance (The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Gene Pitney), 16. Billie the Kid (alias William H Bonney), 17.

Robin Hood, Prince Of Thieves, 18. In order: USA, China, Russia, India, Canada, Germany. 19. In order: Cherokee, Navajo, Sioux, Chippewa. 20.

243.84 cm

We have 40 places available for the golf and unlimited for the dinner.

If you wish to play in our next event, please place your name on the list at Societygofing.co.uk

SUDUKO SUDUKO SOLUTION

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

Carlos Escansiano and Sanderson got Gap to at least a draw, McSweeney and Paul C. keeping Bees in the hunt at 4-6. Sam Salt beat Tollafield in 3 for the match, Cowan taking the 12th in a real ding dong with Bantleman. POTM - Paul C.. - Sanderson.

LEAGUE RESULTS 30 NOVEMBER DIVISION 1 Tipsy Toad Toppers El Capitan CC's Bees Milo's Leeson St Trotters

9-3 5-7 4-8 6-6 10-2

Hub Hyenas Domino's Doms Mind The Gap CK1 Lads Freakie Taverners

DIVISION 2 Danny's Bar 8-4 CK1 Ladybirds 5-7 Domino's Desperados 9-3 Hub Hellraisers 1-11 Tasty Taverners 4-8

Fire Station Fallen Angels Pint Depot Queens Illy's Oldies Tipsy Toad Tiaras

LEAGUE TABLES DIVISION 1 Domino's Domignomes Mind The Gap Tipsy Toad Toppers CC's Bees El Capitan Hub Hyenas Leeson Street Trotters CK1 Lads Milo's Freakie Taverners

P 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7

Pts 13 12 10 9 8 8 4 3 3 0

legs 58 58 57 48 52 50 34 27 22 14

DIVISION 2 Fire Station Danny's Bar Illy's Oldies Fallen Angels CK1 Ladybirds Domino's Desperados Tasty Taverners Tipsy Toad Tiaras Hub Hellraisers Pint Depot Queens

7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7

12 12 10 10 8 8 4 4 4 0

58 57 56 47 50 46 36 34 24 13

180’S: Andres Liamazares, Nigel Justice, Pete Spence MOST 180’S: Andres Liamazares X 4 HIGH FINISHES: Ricky Perez 146, Dale McGuiness 136 HIGHEST FINISH TO DATE: Dave Askew 160

DIVISION 1 TIPSY TOAD TOPPERS V HUB HYENAS Some tidy finishing in the opening three from Dave Rowlinson 76, Dave Askew 49 and 75 gave Toad a 2-1 lead. Askew 3x100,140 and partner Dale McGuiness 121,100 plus a tasty 136 out increased the hosts lead.

John Rodford and Pete Spence whacked in 3 tons

www.theleader.info

MILOS V C.K. 1 LADS Lads totally outscored Milos in the triples, but found themselves 2-1 down through Rory Byrne and Fabian Alcaraz, Darren Hurcombe getting Lads off the mark.

Hurcombe got both doubles and a couple of tons with partner Steve Dalton to level, Steve Mullen and an in form Les Adams 3x100 taking the score to 2-3 prior to Toppers - Andy, Graham, Lee a Gallardo and Alcaraz 3 leg win for 3-3. apiece in their victory over Dario Sierra and Rowlinson, the latter hitting 3x100,128,140. Mark Hurcombe just got over Ellis 100,140,2x95 and Andre Wing D20 making it the line in 3 legs against Cain Garcia, Dalton get2-4 at Chillie time. Delicious!!! ting the visitors to 5 with 4 tons and a maxi proved just enough in a toughy 100,125,140 and an 80 against 4 ton + Dougie Allen, McGuiness ensuring out. Milos Antonio Lara a point with a 70 out and 3 tons. Graham made it 4-5, POTM Adams Solomans got the better of Ellis in 2 legs for the finding D20 for at least a match. draw. Gallardo and Byrne POTM, Mervyn & Les An Askew 81 out, and a Rowlinson 76 out foltaking the 11th and 12th lowed, ending with a Rodford POTM performance for a draw. Milos POTM - Mervyn Borwick. over Sierra in 2. Hub POTM - Rowlinson.

EL CAPITAN V DOMINOS DOMIGNOMES This match had it all, shame it wasn't a draw, the Gnomes victory courtesy of a 3 leg win from Suso Madrid in the 12th over Vycka Bobinas. The 60+ game tons were shared equally, but included in this darts extravaganza was an 18 and 13 dart singles from Andres Lliamazares, a 146 out from Ricardo Perez and 180's from "Liama" and Nigel Justice.

Other notable stats. Outs of 76 from "Lliama", a 70 via Nigel Justice, and a 65 from Chelsea Campbell. Tons from Perez 10, Justice 9, "Lliama" 12, just a snapshot of this very close match, Gnomes retaining top spot - just.

Caps won the 1st three legs, Gnomes the next 3 and 4 of the available singles, Ben Kernahan Caps other singles winner. POTM - Lliama - Perez.

C.C.BEES V MIND THE GAP Gap dominated the triples, winning all 3, totally outscoring Bees. Darren Sanderson and Gordon Cowan making it 4, despite some impressive scoring from Paul Tollafield and Simon Bantleman.

Bees eventually woke up to take the remaining pairs, both in 3 legs courtesy of Reg Christopher and partner Richie McSweeney, Paul Christopher and Ivan Jones the 6th.

LEESON ST. TROTTERS V FREAKIE TAVERNERS John Boden's 72 out in the triples, Sharon Frain's 12th leg victory in 3, and Marco Satoca's 3 tons, 3x85, was the best Freakies could offer against in form Leeson St. Form players from Trotters were Alex Nikolov 7 tons, 5x85+, Barry Shingler 4 tons, Billy Dolling 5 tons, 7 x 81+, and POTM Ken Skinner 5 tons, 5x80+. Freakies POTM - Frain.

DIVISION 2 DANNYS BAR V FIRE STATION A cracking match at Dannys saw Station lose their unbeaten record and almost top spot, retained by just one leg. The match was all square after 4 legs, Dannys Rob Norbury and Paul Raffell, Stations' Roger Phipps and Luke Monks finding the outer. A 94,98,125, 57 out POTM, Steve & Roger

PAGE 23

via Steve Lumb and a Simon Perryman D18, concluding the half giving Dannys a 4-2 lead.

Robbie Monks 100, D13 reduced Station's deficit only for the hosts to reel off the next 3 for the match, Steve Lumb the points winner. Great efforts from the Tims' Goodacre 85,121 and Clarke 100,85, to no avail. POTM - S.Lumb - Phipps, gaining Station's 4th.

C.K. 1 LADYBIRDS V FALLEN ANGELS Very little to choose in the scores department, the advantage falling to Angels virtue of being 2-4 up at the break. Angels Graham White 85,100 and 2 winning doubles, the best for the visitors in the 1st half. Angie Mullen 3x85, D6 and Dons Ralph 80,95,100 and the hosts 2nd out in the 1st 6.

The singles were split, 3 apiece, Mullen, Ralph 16,Bull, and Gena Wood 114, Birds victors, White, Tony Spiers, 113,100,D7 and Steve Godwyn taking the points for Angels. POTM - Ralph - White.

DOMINOS DESPERADOS V PINT DEPOT QUEENS All Queens winning legs came via POTM Lorraine Cox, accompanied by some healthy scoring from the Royal. lt was however all Despos, Paul Chick (2), Dave Oates and Steve Harding accounting for the 4 outs of the 1st half. Damien Lambert throwing a 140.

Ray Hayes claimed the 7th and points for Despos with a tight victory over Maggie Morgan, Paul C. 116, closing the match on D2 for POTM. HUB HELLRAISERS V LLLIES OLDIES Raisers welcomed Oldies to the Plaza and then got a bit of a battering, particularly from POTM Steve "Tesco" Parkin. Where on earth did "Tesco" come from, why not Aldi or Waitrose, answers on a postcard.

Anyway, Tesco doubled out in each of the 3 games he played, new signing Mike Fellows adding 2 more, Des Field banging in 3 tons. Best finish for the elderly ones, Craig Miller with 59, the best score, a 121 from Larry Hodson.

Raiser Sue Spiers notched up 7 scores of note and the hosts only win of the night for POTM. Plenty of trebles from Raisers, few converted.

TASTY TAVERNERS V TIPSY TIARAS With only two more games to go in the first half of the season, the Tiaras finally got a win! The Taverners out-scored the Tiaras, clocking up 6 x 80+´s and 3 tons or more.

Tasty new girl Mandy Woods (D10) opened up for the hostesses and contributed a ton and 120 during the evening. Sonya Lock showed her form in her singles with 126, 94 D1, Captain Winnie coached her players on how to find an odd number, she herself finding D1.

Taverners POTM was, without doubt, Sharon Williams scored consistently and finished in a flourish of 8-20D20 in her pairs only to succumb to Pat Schofield in the first of the singles.

Pat had shown what she could do in her pairs checking out 11-18-D18. Little Lisa Ivill got two of the Tiara legs 124, D10 and 6-D1 in her solo performance. Sharon Crane (84, D19) made it 6 legs and Eileen Askew secured the win on D1 before Tiara POTM Simone de Lacy (D10, D2 and 133, 10-D16) put it all to bed.

PAGE 24

www.theleader.info

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th December 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info