The Leader Newspaper Edition 877

No 887 Monday 4th - Sunday 10th October 2021

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Keeping people safe and informed for over 17 years - The Costa Blanca’s oldest ‘FREE’ English language newspaper

lthough the group started off as a cycling club, such was the popularity that there quickly became a demand for other activities, so, in 2017 Alex decided to launch a keep fit session for the club, along with her friends Daniel,

A

Karin, Brigitte, Heinz and Manu, all of whom agreed to help her out.

This laid the foundation for a new training group in La Zenia. The training was tough and it quickly became apparent that some parts of the body needed rather more training than others.

Most of those who took part had sore muscles for a few days afterwards, but it felt very good.

There were two more training sessions and then Alex travelled back to her home in Germany.

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However, as the workouts had seemed quite popular, Brigitte, Karin and Manu decided to continue their training once a week.

After a short period Ute joined the group. At the time she ran a small boot camp group that also met for training a couple of times a week. The ladies decided combine the training sessions and meet 3 times a week in the park at La Zenia, and now, almost 3 years later, the “ladies group” has grown beyond all expectations.

The training is now held three times a week, on

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Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in the park at Aguamarina. All the details are available on the group calendar.

The sessions are a mix of tabata, body training, circuit training, and boot camp. There is no charge to attend the sessions which the current trainers, Ute, Nicola and Manu, hold free of charge. All you need to take along is your own mat and a small pair of dumbbells 1kg - 4kg.

During the warm summer months, usually from June onwards, the group train on La Zenia beach, followed by a swimming session in the sea, but at the moment, during Autumn and Winter, all of the activities take place in Aguamarina, in the park at the end of Calle

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Agua.

Following the sessions many of the ladies then retire for coffee at the Chirunguito on La Zenia Beach, providing an additional and very welcome social opportunity The group now consists of about 50 participants, not all of who live permanently in Spain, but they do maintain contact with each other all year round.

Grupo La Zenia also runs section for Motorcyclists, Yoga, golf as well its original function of cycling.

More information is available either on the group facebook page or at www.grupolazenia.com

The Civil War Diaries of Consul William Leverkus MBE Most importantly, “Guillermo” Leverkus wrote a personal diary during those years, day by day. From his diplomatic status, he tells what happens and notes the decisions that he takes. His point of view is different from those of the warring parties and the Spanish population during those terrible years.

By Antonio Cortiñas-Guntin

W

illiam Charles Ernest Ferdinand Leverkus was born on 22nd August 1882, in Manchester, England. He was the first son of Otto and Rosalie Leverkus. He was followed by three sisters (Elsie in 1893, Gertrude in 1898, and Dorothy in 1900).

With the authorisation and approval of his grandchildren Jill and Peter, I had the pleasure and the privilege of translating into Spanish his diary made during those Spanish Civil War years.

His father was an entrepreneur who in the 1890´s established himself in Cartagena setting up The Cartagena Mining & Water Company Ltd (CM&WC), with offices in London and Manchester.

The company installed and operated the supply of water to Cartagena.

The Cartagena based publisher “Ediciones Nueva Spartaria” has decided to publish not only this translation but also the original text of the diaries in English, simultaneously and in a second book. Both books will be published in November 2021 in Cartagena and in Murcia.

After his education, William worked for the CM&WC in Spain and in England. He married Margaret Bergen on December 2nd, 1911. They had four children (John -who died before his first birthday- Vera, Tony, and William Fernando).

He worked and lived all his life in Cartagena until 1967, when he died at the age of 84. Locally he was known as “Don Guillermo”. Since the 1930´s he was the British Vice-consul in Cartagena.

William Leverkus lived during the Spanish Civil War (1936 - 1939) in Cartagena, a small but very important city-port in the Republican rearguard.

During the period the professional British

The books will highlight the humanitarian efforts of William Leverkus during those three long years as he helped the persecuted, regardless of their political colours. It is clear to me that he loved Spain.

Diplomatic Corps was largely withdrawn from Spain. As such the British Foreign Office was dependant on the (non-professional) network of consulates. This was the case with William Leverkus.

Although Consul “Guillermo" Leverkus could have left his post and walked out at any time, he decided to "stay and serve", an indication of the measure and of his unusual and admirable moral stature as a man.

He was awarded an OBE by King George VI in the 1939 New Years Honours List.

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TORREVIEJA ORDERS REMOVAL OF ILLEGAL BILLBOARDS IN FRONT OF LOS BALCONES CHURCH

T

he location and installation of billboards in the coastal areas of the Vega Baja has always been chaotic and an eyesore, sometimes without the board owner following any criteria other than by placing their signage as close as possible to main roads that have a large influx of traffic.

The companies have taken advantage of the apparent passivity of local municipalities which continues to show little or no interest in their placement, their size or their numbers. They continue to spring up all over the Vega Baja often encroaching onto unauthorised areas, green areas and abandoned plots of land.

The sides of the N-332 as it runs through Orihuela Costa and Torrevieja are a good example.

But very occasionally, as was the case in Torrevieja’s most recent Plenary Session, the invasion of public space is so evident that the municipalities have no choice but to act. This is what has happened in Torrevieja.

The Department of Urbanism area has ordered the removal of three standard billboards, each with a display area of 24 square metres that have been installed on a plot dedicated for religious use in Los Balcones, in the green area and just a few metres from the front of the church.

For many months, and still today despite the removal order issued by the council, the billboards continue to advertise a fast food chain and a car insurance company in full view of the thousands of drivers who drive into Torrevieja along the CV-95.

For companies that specialise in this type of media, it is a business with extremely profitable margins. The only cost is the manufacture and installation of the frame and board. There is only very rarely a need to pay ground rental as the signs are usually placed on public land, verges and boundaries, along the side of main roads that are fit for hardly any other purpose.

However, highway legislation expressly prohibits this type of

Highway legislation prohibits any advertisement by the side of national roads that can distract drivers

advertising, where it is forbidden to advertise on any site that is visible from national roads, in general any advertisement that can distract drivers. The prohibition applies to all signs, posters, inscriptions, forms, logos or images, regardless of their type or size.

But for maintaining an advertising display, the company receives a minimum monthly fee of 300 euros per board, depending on size and location, so it is little surprise that the signs continue to flood the local area.

As well as the signs in Los Balcones, Torrevieja Council has also issued a removal order for a further five illegal boards belonging to the same company which are situated on the CV 905 at the access to Urb El Limonar.

In addition to removing the billboards the company has also been fined for their illegal placement which it is thought they will be appealing as is currently the case with the dozens of other cases initiated by the previous council.

Indeed three years ago Torrevieja’s Los Verdes council prosecuted 111 cases for breaches of the municipal ordinance with regard to unsightly and illegal advertising billboards, collecting 46,800 euros in fines.

In Orihuela the council is said to lack an ordinance that can regulate the location of this type of street advertising where there are many open records of urban infringement against the illegal hoardings, often presenting a negative urban image in one of the most popular tourist areas of the province. They say that they are unable to act as the means used to sanction and force the removal of these signs are limited, and are supported by administrative procedures that are slow and complicated.

So their lack of control continues to be exploited by many of the companies responsible for such forms of advertising, regardless of the legal breaches.

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TORREVIEJA FIREFIGHTERS FINALLY GET THEIR LADDER After more than three years, during which time Torrevieja firefighters have been making do with an old and unreliable aerial ladder, the Provincial Council has finally invested 700,000 euros in a new vehicle carrying a hydraulic platform that can be used for effecting rescue from high-rise structures.

It is essentially a large crane fitted with a caged platform which can be hoisted to heights well over 32 m (105 ft) in some cases. The platform may be raised to windows or balconies to rescue stranded persons.

The appliance is also capable of pumping water and is able to direct water jets into a fire from an elevated position.

Corporal Noel Quiñones, from the Torrevieja fire station, highlighted the importance of having a new ladder truck that will provide more safety and efficiency, especially for the emergency rescue of the elderly. These automatic escalators have a 360º rotating platform, in addition to a

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THE NEW LADDER TRUCK WILL PROVIDE MORE SAFETY AND EFFICIENCY The Mayor and Security Councillor with Corporal Quiñones

basket with capacity for four people to a maximum weight of 400 kilograms.

They also have rotating stretcher holders, suitable for supporting up to 200 kilograms, as well as anti-collision sensors, safety traffic lights for access to stair sections and an anemometer to measure wind speed.

The Torrevieja firefighters have been using their old ladder platform for three years during which time it has let them down mechanically during a number of rescue operations.

Such is the joy that the new piece of equipment has brought to the firefighters that it has been unveiled twice in recent days, first in San Vicente del Raspeig, the Consortium's headquarters and more recently last Thursday in the presence of the Torrevieja mayor Eduardo Dolón and his Security Councillor, Federico Alarcón.

Election of Horadada’s Fiesta Queens After an absence of a year,

In a ceremony that was pre-

there being no festivities in

sented by Alejandro Paredes,

2020 because of the coron-

all of the queen’s were cho-

avirus pandemic, the three

sen by ballot

fiesta Queens were elected on Saturday evening at the start of the Pilar de la Horadada Patron Saint Festivities Almudena Ramos Albaladejo was elected Queen of the Patron Saint Festivities, the Infant Queen is Aitana Sáez

Mata calls introduction of tourist tax ‘an insult’.

The secretary general of the PSPV-PSOE, Manolo Mata, does not seem to like one bit the fact that he has colleagues in the Valencian Government coalition who threaten to exert pressure against his party, on the matter of a tourist tax on overnight stays in the Valencian Community.

During his speech, he appealed to the importance of preserving democracy in the face of groups that long for the reintroduction of those "supposedly wonderful things" that were in place decades ago, when, according everyone had a job and a house; in a clear allusion to the extreme right and Francoism.

President, Ximo Puig, has shown such a firm stance in his refusal to apply a tourist tax now.

He reproached the region’s left wing parties Compromís and Unidas Podemos who are leading the support for the tourist ta saying that he was still waiting for a “concrete proposal” on the tax.

Alejandro described the occasion as a magical gala, full of feeling and more special than ever, a tribute to the past of Pilar and an event that will serve as a restart activity after everything we have experienced.

Punzano, and the Absent

The gala concluded with a

Queen, who represents those

free musical performance by

Pilareños who live abroad, is

the Mexican artiste Luis

Clara Martínez Romero.

Miguel.

Generalitat to allocate 6 million to Orihuela Costa sewage plant The Generalitat’s Public Sanitation Company (EPSAR) is in the bidding process for the improvement of the Orihuela sewage plant on which it

expects to start the works before 2022, according to the Councilor for Infrastructure , Ángel Noguera.

Improvements will include the expansion of the purification capacity of the Orihuela Costa station with the construction of a storage tank that will cater for periods of major rainflow to

take rainwater so that the treatment plant is not saturated.

The contract will also see improvements to treatment processes and the renovation of the area’s five wastewater pumping stations.

The amount of the investment will be 6,663,111 euros.

October’s Tourist routes arranged around poet Miguel Hernández After the public success of the previous routes, and coinciding with the anniversary of the birth of Miguel Hernández, on October 30, 1910, the Department of Tourism has organised tourist routes that will revolve around the Orihuela poet.

All of the walks will start in Orihuela city with the tourist information office being the meeting point for next Friday’s Legends tour starting at 8pm. It will be the same meeting time and point on the following day for a dramatized walk.

Other walks will take place every Friday and Saturday during the month ending with a tribute to Hernández on Saturday, October 30, his anniversary.

Anyone withing to take part in any of these routes must make a reservation at www.orihuelaturística.es because places are limited.

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G ARDEN FELIX Echiums perfect for the Costa Blanca More commonly known as Vipers or Buglosses, Echiums are true sun-loving plants - perfect for growing on the Costa Blanca.

Armed with heat-protective foliage and searching taproots, they flourish in dry weather.

Echiums vary between annuals, hardy perennials and semi-evergreens.

Favoured garden varieties tend to be the monocarpic sort; producing leaf mounds in their first year and flowering in the second or third, before setting seed and dying.

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CASEY SHADDOCK HONOURED BY APANEE 'To have the Multisensory Learning room named after me has left me in shock!' - Casey Shaddock

By Andrew Atkinson EXCLUSIVE President María José Sánchez and Mayor Eduardo Dolón opened the €30,000 Multisensory room granted to APANEE Torrevieja by the contest 'I Disney Solidarity Tales' by Carrefour Foundation and Cocemfe no Children Treatment.

The Multisensory room has been named in honour of charity work undertaken by Orihuela based Casey Shaddock for raising funds for APANEE. Speaking to The Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader, Casey said: "To be honoured by APANEE Torrevieja in naming the Multisensory Learning room after me has left me in shock!

"I don't do any charity work for glory - or even acknowledgement or titles. I honestly don't know what to say.

Torrevieja President María and Casey Shaddock in the Multisensory room

"I just love doing Charity work for the children.

I'm stunned. No award or anything can match this, especially when the Spanish have welcomed us in the way they have.

"Prior to Mayor Eduardo Dolón cutting the ribbon I was asked to unveil the room plaque only to find it has been named after me.

have to say thank you to the people of the Orihuela Costa, without you and your donations, none of this would have been possible.

"This has to be the most amazing thing to ever happen in my life! Humbled is just not a big enough word.

"This room is amazing, all electronic, and the photos show you some of it but it is just awesome. If in Torrevieja please go by and see the school.

"People who truly know me, know that I love helping people. It's not for glory, medals, or titles, I simply love what I do. "On 1 October my world was truly blessed when invited to Apanee Torrevieja, the amazing kid's school we support so much, for the opening celebrations of a new Multisensory room.

"Maria, President of Apanee and a lady I am so proud to call my friend, I thank you for giving me a legacy that I will do my best to live up to!

"And the kids there, well I just love them! And I

Veterans Breakfast Club continues to grow 95 year old Joy Trew reminiscing with 94 year old D-Day Veteran, Joe Billet.

Almost all the species are united by a few defining attributes being their showy flowers of white, pink, red or blue; narrow leaves; and tough, wandering stems.

Delivering floral profusion in late May - that often continues well into July and August - that are completely unflustered by extreme heat.

"You can join us next September when we throw one of the biggest festivals ever to help support the kids and other charities."

Experienced in both UK and Spanish care systems, he imparted his wealth of knowledge identifying UK allowances/benefits available to those of us who live in Spain, which are available from the British Government to assist independent living.

Following a very helpful 45 minute presentation and Q&A, David stayed behind to chat to individuals and help with their individual queries.

Although launched for Veterans & their families, non service

These plants deliver on two main points, as they are easy to grow and prolifically set seed and are supreme magnets for bees, butterflies and all other pollinators to your garden.

Their needs are simple, all they need is poor well-draining soil and a sunny spot. They don’t need feeding or staking.

All Echiums must be handled with gloves, as the coarse hairs can cause skin irritation.

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The latest meeting of the Veterans Breakfast Club, sponsored by The Orihuela Costa Branch of the RBL, was held on Tuesday at the Hi Life bar in Playa Flamenca.

Over 40 people attended the gathering, an initiative of Branch Welfare Worker Sandie Coates, which brought together many veterans from the local community, with the aim of providing support in mental health, wellbeing and mobility issues, making the most of RBL resources, and evolving in line with changes in the Armed Forces community.

As is usual, the morning got underway with half an hour of gentle exercise with our own Madam Motivator, Nicola, in which she encouraged participants with a little music and chat.

This was followed by a light breakfast which gave those partaking, many of

who have no previous association with the military, the opportunity to meet new friends and to chat over croissants, tea and coffee.

However, attending the October meeting were two very special hands, both of who were at the very first gathering pre lockdown. Joy Trew a 95 year old former member of the RAF was able to reminisce with 94 year old D-Day Veteran, Joe Billet, about their many combined years with the services.

Thereafter David Minto, a local social worker and a veteran himself, gave a very interesting and informative presentation on UK Benefits that can be claimed by Expats living in Spain David, of Advocacy Costa Blanca, an ex Welfare Officer for Help at Home, is a retired UK Social Worker who worked with the NHS for a number of years.

personnel are more than welcome to attend the meetings which are held on the last Tuesday of every month at the Hi Life Bar in Playa Flamenca starting at 11am.

The presentation at the October meeting will be from a speaker concentrating on TIE’s and Residencia, something that affects us all.

If you wish to attend PLEASE BOOK IN WITH SANDIE AT: sandysandy1979@outlook.com or phone 645 290 078.

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THE POISON IS THE ANTIDOTE ome thespians in long-running medical dramas probably end up knowing as much about medicine as many junior doctors.

S

If a customer collapsed in a restaurant these days and you were to ask, "Does anyone have medical training?" three members of the actors' union Equity might rush to jostle each other for centre stage.

As the artist Paul Gauguin once said to Vincent van Gogh, "Besides the poison, there is the antidote." He was talking about mixing 100 proof absinthe and 100% art, voicing his belief that absinthe makes the art grow stronger. I would adopt that as a maxim for life, but I can't paint, not even if you offered me toffee.

How would some of the betterknown doctors have reacted to a pandemic?

Dr Kildare would have posed dra-

matically; Ben Casey might have growled and stared the virus down; Dr Jekyll would have been in two minds about how to behave; and Dr Who would have simply transmogrified into another person, possibly a covid-resistant child, one that not even Daleks could exterminate.

It is comforting to think that the road to our present infernal plague is paved with good inventions -- and even better scientists and doctors.

Where would we be without Marie Curie, winner of 2 Nobel Prizes, Physics and Chemistry, two subjects as difficult as making Mr. Mxyzptlk say his own name backwards, the only way to stop him tormenting Superman. (It's "kel-tip-zix-um", don't say this isn't educational.)

And talking of difficult names, how would we fight pandemics

without Dr Röntgen's X-rays?

Where would hospital patients be without the oxygen cylinders of a Scottish doctor called John Haldane? Or the many scientists over the centuries who refined and developed microscopes?

Our debt to them cannot be magnified enough, ha ha.

I've saved the best until last, of course, and if we were choosing our First XI team to challenge the coronavirus, our captain would have to be Edward Jenner, inventor of the smallpox vaccine.

A leading goalscorer would be Louis Pasteur, who helped develop vaccines for rabies and anthrax. People like them won the match for us a long time ago.

A long time ago, too, Gauguin talked about poison being an antidote, almost as if he knew how vaccines worked. Van Gogh himself was equally insightful: "To the ego, love is poison," he said.

"And the poison is the cure."

Zowee. And he could paint as well.

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Paul receiving the cheque from Lorraine

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MIND YOUR LANGUAGE More than 500 new words were added to the Oxford English Dictionary during 2020. By June 2021 this number grew by 40%, with over 700 words added through the first six months of 2021.

The origins of many of the words, such as staycation and essential worker can be linked to the pandemic. However, some words, such as amazeballs and adulting, have been added to the 2021 dictionary due to cultural use.

Here are some of the most weird and wonderful words that you can now find in the dictionary.

Glitzy Charity Event Sparkles with Success" People certainly 'put on their glitz' on Saturday 25th Sept at the Marina Bar, Calle de las Rosas Torrevieja for the charity event "Puttin On The Glitz" It was all in aid of The Stroke Association Spain and was the first event for the charity to be organized by well known fund raisers David & Lorraine Whitney and it raised 441 Euros for the charity.

A delicious two course meal, Raffle, Tombola and Quiz ensured the evening went by smoothly with the addition of prizes for the best dressed man and woman.

Paul Owen, founder of the Stroke Association, was there to outline the charity's work and it's importance and was thrilled with the support shown for the event.

A big thank you must go to all the many people who generously donated items and to Lynne Smith who at short notice conjured up a dreamy gateau for the raffle and to Mary Terry Flynn for her generous donation of a voucher for afternoon tea for two at the bar.

Thanks to Rita and Dave of the Marina Bar for their continued charity support and to their team of brilliant workers at the bar.

The next event on David & Lorraine's event calendar will be the popular Christmas Fayre on Saturday afternoon the 20th. November, again for The Stroke Association .

Word/Phrase

Meaning

Staycation

To holiday at home or in one's country of residence

Cancel culture

The practice or tendency of engaging in mass cancelling as a way of expressing disapproval and exerting social pressure

Essential worker A worker who is of crucial importance within a par ticular field or enterprise Main character syndrome The feeling that your life is a film or play and you are the main character in it Gender pay gap A difference in pay between men and women Doomscrolling

Reading the news on social media and expecting it to be bad

Adulting

The action of becoming or acting like an adult

Sapiosexual

Relating to, or characterised by a sexual or romantic attraction to highly intelligent people

Coworking

Working in a building where multiple tenants rent working space and have the use of communal facili ties

Amazeballs

Expressing enthusiastic approval: great, excellent, highly impressive; fantastic

Body-shame

To mock, humiliate, or stigmatise (a person) on the basis of supposed faults or imperfections in body shape, size, or appearance.

Chopse

To call (a person) an abusive name; to insult verbal ly; to shout at angrily.

Volunteercation

A holiday spent doing volunteer work

Astraphobia

A fear of lightning

“While swearing can be impolite used in the wrong context, it can also increase the effectiveness and persuasiveness of a message.”

Dinger

A person’s buttocks

The full Cursing Report for 2021 can be found at www. preply.com

TRUCKING SHORTAGE The fuel crisis in the UK has highlighted the serious lack of truckers that the country is suffering from as a result of Brexit, which has led to the departure of many drivers who were previously working there.

But the shortage is not unique to the British Isles. In the province of Alicante it is estimated that there is a shortage of more than 1,000 drivers, a situation that is attributed to the harsh working conditions of the profession.

A study by online language learning platform Preply also revealed the languages with the most swear words, by using world dictionaries and surveying bilingual speakers.

With 348 recorded swear words, English has taken the number one spot, beating Spanish with 251 and German with 196.

The remainder of the top ten is filled by the French,151, Japanese, 150, Bulgaria 129, Russia 123, Sweden 120, Croatia 112, Poland 112, Portugal 110, Italy108, Norway 94, the Philippines 48 and Czechia 42 Daniele Saccardi from Preply, said: “Language forms our ability to communicate thoughts and feelings and swear words are a vital part of language that express everything from anger, frustration to even happiness.

That is just one reason that will prevent the British from receiving help from here, despite the appeal made by their government.

To try to redress the situation, Boris Johnson has approved a series of measures that involve issuing 5,000 visas for truck drivers and offering free training to a total of 4,000 learners.

However, these are provisional initiatives, introduced to save the Christmas campaign, which, at least for the moment, are not providing any incentive to the carriers of the European Union, including those from the Valencian Community.

Carla and Irene

Spanish Junior Taekwando Championships in Cartagena Chief Sports Editor Andrew Atkinson meets Taekwando Technical Director Kim Yan Young, Spanish junior champion Carla Rebollo Clemente, Irene Ferriols Barroso, Saúl Moreno Fuentes, and Rafael Llorente Sánchez in Los Alcázares, ahead of the Spanish Junior Taekwando Championships in Cartagena.

Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader Exclusive report and photos next week.

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Opposition parties demand Bascuñana and Aix listen to the Coast In a rare political alliance, Cambiemos, PSOE and Vox have all united in supporting the proposal 'Unitary Agenda of Actions in Orihuela Costa', that has been signed by 18 resident groups and associations on the Oriolano coast The three municipal opposition groups in Orihuela have presented a joint motion that endorses, the points that make up the proposal for a "Unitary Agenda of Actions in Orihuela Costa" signed by 18 residents’ groups and associations.

According to sources from the three parties, all of which has municipal representation in the Oriolano Council, the promoters of the initiative requested meetings with all

municipal groups.

The only ones that did not attend were the two that make up the Municipal coalition Government, the Partido Popular and Ciudadanos.

Indeed Mayor Emilio Bascuñana (PP) and Deputy Mayor José Aix (Cs), refused to meet with the groups representing over 30,000 residents to discuss their complaints.

According to the three political formations, this is what has motivated the joint proposal: "We do not believe that the people represented by the associations deserve this treatment, to be continually ignored. Our Coast needs urgent improvements to it’s management", they said.

The Mayor’s New Car The PP points out that the current car is 21 years old The purchase is part of the renewal of the municipal fleet which includes another 34 vehicles The Torrevieja Council plans to buy a vehicle, valued at 46,567 euros, for the Mayor's Office.

The car appears in the tender that is currently being considered to renew a large part of its fleet of vehicles at a cost of 694,000 euros.

In addition to the car attached to the mayor’s area, the contract includes the provision in five different lots in an open tender, of another four cars, three off-road SUVs, eight vans, six large vans, two box trucks and thirteen motorcycles.

However, the car assigned to the mayor's office

PSOE, Cambiemos and Vox all agreed that "it is an absolute disgrace that the only groups that refused to attend are the PSOE and Ciudadanos, the two groups that have the power to make improvements. Completely ignoring them is not the answer."

María García Sandoval (Cambiemos), Carolina Gracia (PSOE) and Maria Asunción Aniorte (Vox) explained that "after many years enduring poor services" the concerns that are reflected in social networks will undoubtedly lead to further protests by residents if they continue to be disregarded by the Orihuela Council.

may be used by all councillors and officials and not exclusively by the Mayor Eduardo Dolon. "It is a car attached to the Mayor's Office, it is not a mayor's car," a spokesman indicated.

Currently, the mayor makes most of his trips in his own vehicle, in cars from different council departments or, in cars that are made available to the deputies of the Alicante provincial government of which Dolón is a member.

The current official vehicle allocated to the Mayor's Office, registered in 2001, is practically useless and is hardly used, although between 2008 and 2015 the Council also had a rented Volkswagen Phaenton.

The previous left-wing government team renounced the use of official cars, travelling in utility vehicles from the Services area or in their own private cars.

The contract for the new acquisitions is justified by the age and wear of the current municipal vehicles, which suffer from "a large number of breakdowns, sometimes remaining unrepaired due to their high cost."

EXODUS OF DOCTORS

Draw of high speed train fails to reactivate Orihuela Station The arrival of the high-speed train (AVE) into Orihuela on February 1 has not managed to reactivate the Orihuela-Miguel Hernández intermodal station as all of the commercial premises on offer by the Administradora de Infraestructuras Ferroviarias (Adif) remain empty eight months later.

By Andrew Atkinson An exodus of doctors taking both early and planned retirement from within the hospitals of the Alicante Province has lead to concerns by Rosa Atiénzar, Health Secretary of the CC OO Union.

"Not a sufficient number of specialists are being trained to guarantee covering all the retirements that are going to take place in the coming years," said Atiénzar.

Resident Associations promise that more demonstrations will be held on the coast

Alarm bells increased amid the high numbers of retirees in the profession on the back of the Covid-19 pandemic in Alicante hospitals.

Data shows numbers of retired professionals increased 58% with reports of a shortage of specialists including Family Medicine and Anesthesiology.

Hospital employees along with those in Health Centres in the province of Alicante lead to high numbers suffering from fatigue and stress during

The facilities lack any hospitality service and it seems unlikely that this ramshackle image of emptiness - and even abandonment - is going to change in the medium term.

Last June ADIF, trying to take advantage of the pull of the high-speed service, put out to

the coronovirus workload - a factor that has lead to an increase in retirements.

Data by the Ministry of Health in 2020, revealed 58% more doctors and nurses retired, with the outset of Covid-19 emerging in March 2020.

In 2019, 205 professionals retired - in 2020, 324 professionals retired. As of August 2021, 165 doctors and nurses had retired that has lead to patients appointments waiting lists delays.

tender more than one hundred square metres of cafeteria and restaurant space available on the ground floor to potential concessionaries. There was absolutely no response despite the boost that the upturn in passenger traffic was forecast to bring with the arrival of the new service.

During the peak months May to August just 17,800 passengers used the station.

The only services available to travellers are vending machines, bank ATMs and a security service with little empathy towards users.

Within the Health sector professionals can extend retirement age to 67 years. Under certain conditions retirement can be aged 70.

“It is very noticeable that the retirement age has lowered, it can simply be verified with the union membership data. "Before, almost everyone asked to work at least until they were 67, now they are leaving at 65," said Víctor Pedrera, president of the Medical Union of the Valencian Community.

PAGE 10

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Happiness is…

W

e have, from time to time, written articles here on how to be happy. True happiness comes from inside and whilst we can pick up happy tips from other people, in truth we can only be as happy or as sad as we choose to be.

We have the power to make that decision to be happy. It is in the human condition to constantly search for happiness – and indeed, haven’t the Americans written ‘the pursuit of happiness’ into their constitution.

The place to start being happy is when the next person asks you, ‘how are things?’ Try saying ‘brilliant’ instead of ‘ah … middling’, and watch how that response will sow the seed of happiness for the rest of the day.

YCBS has occasionally stolen ideas for a column, but we can never be accused of plagiarism. Our literary offerings are by and large our own jaundiced take on the world around us.

(Ah … Lads, let somebody else speak …please!)

But I came across an article on ‘the art of happiness’ this evening, and we are going to fill the remainder of this week’s space with excerpts from the piece.

The interesting thing about this is that it was written 76 years ago; but when you read it, I’m sure that you will agree that it could have been written today.

William D Ogden, of the ‘New York Times’, sat down and wrote an editorial on the art of happiness and this appeared in his newspaper on 30th December 1945.

“We have a curious condition in the

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th October, 2021

world today. There was never a time when so much official effort was being expended to produce happiness, and probably never a time when so little attention was being paid by the individual to creating the personal qualities that make for it …”

“What one misses most in the world today is the evidence of widespread personal determination to develop a character that will in itself make for happiness.

The whole emphasis is on the reform of living conditions, on increased wages, or controls on the economic structure - and so little on people improving themselves.”

“The ingredients of happiness are so simple that they can be counted on one hand. First of all, happiness must be shared. Selfishness is the enemy; for to make another happy is to be happy one’s self. It is quite seldom found for long in big crowds, most easily found in moments of solitude and reflection.

It comes from within, and rests most securely on simple goodness and clear conscience. Religion may not be essential to it, but no one is known to have gained it without a philosophy resting on ethical principles. “ “It cannot be bought; indeed money, strange as it may seem, has very little to do with it. It was Thomas Kempis who wisely said that ‘a modest competence sufficeth.”

“People are not happy unless they are reasonably happy with themselves, so that the quest for tranquillity must be of necessity begun with self-examination. We shall not often be content with what we discover in this scrutiny.

There is much to do, and so little done.

Upon this searching self-analysis, how-

The Arenales del Sol hotel in Elche - closed in 1979 - is finally set to be demolished after years of concerns surrounding its safety, under both health and safety fears.

Removal of asbestos continues ahead of demolition in October with specialist staff wearing hermetic suits - working shifts not exceeding 30 minutes, due to health procedures.

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ever; depends the discovery of those qualities that make each person unique, and whose development alone can bring satisfaction.”

“Of all those who have tried, down the ages, to outline a programme for happiness, few have succeeded as well as William Henry Channing, a clergyman who was chaplain to the United States Senate in the middle of the last century. He put it this way: ‘To live content with small means, to seek elegance rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion; to be worthy, not respectable, and wealthy, not rich; to study hard, think quietly, talk gently, act frankly; to listen to the stars and the birds, to babes and sages, with open heart; to bear all cheerfully, do all bravely, await occasion, hurry never; in a word, to let the spiritual, unbidden and unconscious, grow up through the common. This is my symphony.”

“It will be noted”, Ogden concluded, “that no government can do this for you; you must do it for yourself.”

And there you have it, dear readers.

There is a lot of wisdom in those excerpts from that old editorial – so much so, that I thought it worth passing on as it is. Even if we all just take one signpost from Mr Ogden’s blueprint, we shall be all the better for doing so.

Don’t Forget Happiness is discovering that the slip of paper underneath you windscreen wiper is only an advertisement.

Elche’s Arenales del Sol hotel to be demolished

By Andrew Atkinson

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keep out of the no entry prohibited site.

The asbestos will be disposed of in a specialised landfill outside the province, due to Spain having few facilities for the disposal of asbestos.

The dismantling of one of the two wings of the hotel is completed.

The Arenales del Sol hotel, built in the sixties, without knowledge of the danger

Two-tonnes of asbestos lined concrete structures have been removed entering into October on the beachfront eyesore hotel.

asbestos posed to workers.

Fencing stretching 130 metres x 2 metres high was erected in recent years, in a bid to

cancer caused by asbestos aged 60, while

My father George Atkinson passed away in November 1982 in England, due to lung employed by British Aerospace (BAe).

Bernie.comaskey@gmail.com *Author, entrepreneur and newspaper columnist, Bernie Comaskey, now spends most of his time on a farm in Ireland; but he retains his strong links with the Costa Blanca.

Bernie has published four books; ‘If Ever a Man Suffered’, ‘The Best of Bernie’, ‘The Team’, and ‘Just Between Ourselves’. Bernie’s books are available at half price, on sale from either Spanish Solutions or ‘The Leader.’ Call 637 227 385 for info.

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WARM WELCOME FOR RBL AT CARTAGENA MILITARY MUSEUM What a terrific visit to Cartagena Military Museum by the Orihuela Costa Branch of the Royal British Legion last Thursday.

Attended by over 35 members and arranged for the Branch by historian Dr Tony Fuller, the visitors were welcomed to the Military museum by the Officer Commanding, Major Antonio Martinez, who stayed with the party for the whole of the tour.

The party was briefed by the OC following which they were split into three groups and shown around the museum, which continues to be a functioning military unit, by Tony, and fellow researcher Lt Col (Retd) Antonio Cortiña Set on two floors the museum has an absolute horde of all things military, from all 3 services, including anti-aircraft and shore battery guns, projectiles, hand weapons, swords, knives, artillery shells and all manner of uniforms, documentation, flags, dating back many hundreds of years.

It even includes the world’s largest private collection of military models, put together by one individual who unfortunately passed away last year, although continued by his son.

All of the exhibits are housed in a beautiful building which, completed in 1876, is well worth a visit for its beautiful architec-

A brief on arrival by Major Antonio Martinez ture alone, vaulted ceilings, built with brick on spherical pillars, in a simple Byzantine style, know today as neo-classical gothic.

An excellent booklet in English can be purchased at the entrance to the building which guides you through the museum room by room, giving a little history and mentioning some of the most important pieces housed in the facility.

Of course not everything went to plan as Tony found himself stuck in the service lift for 15 minutes as the door jammed.

However, his rescue was effected fairly quickly so the disruption to the tour was

only minimal, even though it attracted more than a few ‘chuckles’.

Following the visit the party were then escorted to La Manga Club where, together with the tour guides, they enjoyed a truly wonderful lunch at La Barra Restaurant, long time supporters of the RBL. Needless to say, our Chelsea Pensioner Wayne Campbell was treated like royalty as he posed for photographs with the very accommodating proprietor Michelle Wall and her wonderful staff.

A wonderful visit and a truly memorable day.

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This week in music For this edition we’re looking back at various events which took place this exact week throughout the decades in the world of music. Do you remember?

half weeks, with Elton John composing most of the music in three days while staying at the Pink Flamingo Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road has now sold over 30 million copies worldwide and is his best-selling studio album.

1958 - Cliff Richard and The Shadows played their first gig together when they appeared at the Victoria Hall, Hanley, England.

1974 - Mike Oldfield’s 'Tubular Bells' went to No.1 for the first time on the UK album chart 15 months after being released. It went on to sell over 10 million copies worldwide.

1977 - One half of TV cop show "Starsky & Hutch, David Soul was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Silver Lady', his second and last UK No.1 single.

Roy was imortalised by the classic ‘Oh Pretty Woman’ that he wrote alongside Bill Dees

1978 - The film soundtrack to 'Grease' featuring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John started a 13 week run at No.1 on the UK chart & in the same year Country singer Tammy Wynette was abducted, beaten and held in her car for two hours by a kidnapper wearing a ski mask. He held a gun on her and forced her to drive 90 miles from Nashville, Tennessee. She was later released and the kidnapper escaped.

1991 - Michael Jackson gave away the bride at Elizabeth Taylor's seventh wedding, held at Jackson's Neverland Ranch. The Groom was construction worker Larry Fortensky, whom Taylor would divorce in 1997.

1964 - Roy Orbison was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Oh Pretty Woman', his third UK No.1. The title was inspired by his wife Claudette interrupting a conversation to announce she was going out; when Orbison asked if she was okay for cash, his co-writer Bill Dees interjected "A pretty woman never needs any money."

Frank Sinatra, No.2 'She Loves You', The Beatles and No.1 'Relax' by Frankie Goes To Hollywood'.

2002 - Mick Jagger donated £100,000 to his old Grammar school in Dartford to help pay for a music director and buy musical instruments. The new centre was also named after Mick Jagger.

1966 - Having moved to and living in London, England, Jimi Hendrix, Mitch Mitchell and Noel Redding played together for the first time - The Jimi Hendrix Experience were formed.

2006 - Reggae legend Bob Marley was honoured with a heritage plaque at his former north London home at 34 Ridgmount Gardens in Camden. The event was part of Black History Month, a season of events promoting the contribution of African-Caribbean communities in London.

1967 - Cass Elliot from The Mamas & the Papas spent the night in a London jail after being accused of stealing from a hotel. A TV and concert appearance had to be cancelled.

1973 - Elton John released his seventh studio album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. Under the working titles of Vodka and Tonics and Silent Movies, Talking Pictures, Bernie Taupin wrote the lyrics to the album in two and a

2000 - UK TV show Top Of The Pops issued a Top 40 chart based on singles that had spent the longest time on the UK chart. No.3 was 'My Way' by

PINK LADIES WIG APPEAL ctober is International Breast cancer awareness month and as usual the Pink Ladies will be marking this with various events throughout the month.

one diagnosed are in a position to be able to afford

Top of the list this year is the promotion of a Pink Ladies Wig Appeal, and as usual we are looking for your support in promoting it through your media.

kindly donate it to the Pink Ladies Wig Appeal, sec-

Basically ladies who undergo chemotherapy after a cancer diagnosis, one of the side effects is the loss of bodily hair.

for as long as they need them.

O

This can have a very traumatic effect for a lady to lose her hair, on top of having to deal with the disease and all the concerns that go with it so our wig appeal is to make things a little easier for them by providing a wig and a stylist to restyle the wig if required, wigs can be quite expensive and not every-

the cost of a wig.

Our appeal is two pronged, firstly to ask your readers if they have a wig they no longer use or need then to ondly to offer these wigs to ladies who have lost or are losing their hair due to chemotherapy treatment As I said before we also have a number of stylists who have offered to restyle the wig as required for the individual, this service and the use of the wig is completely free of charge, hopefully this will add a little cheer to those unfortunate to be fighting this heinous disease.

Maria Wilson President AACC Orihuela Costa

2020 - American singer-songwriter Johnny Nash died of natural causes age 80. He is best known for his 1972 hit 'I Can See Clearly Now'. Primarily a reggae and pop singer, he was one of the first non-Jamaican artists to record reggae music in Kingston.

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 886

ACROSS 1.

Vegetable (9) 8.

--- de Janeiro (3) 9.

Disastrous (11) 11. Go before (7) 12. Scottish landowner (5) 13. Churchman (6) 15. Light wind (6) 17. Speak slowly (5) 18. Get rid of (7) 20. Incompatible (11) 22. Fuss (3) 23. Proof (9) CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE? Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

Solution on Page 23

DOWN 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

10.

11.

14.

16.

19.

21.

Expanse of water (3) Frilled lace (5) Hot spring (6) Alike (7) Group of islands (11) Supporter of Cromwell (9) Fear (11) Fanciful plan (4,5) Canvass (7) Handsome man (6) Middle-Eastern country (5) Vase (3)

QUICK ACROSS: 1 Anvil; 4 Anaemic; 8 Lectern; 9 Strum; 10 Null; 11 Narrator; 13 Fond; 14 Peal; 16 Perceive; 17 Vain; 20 Exact; 21 Ravioli; 22 Endorse; 23 Drawn.

DOWN: 1 All in one piece; 2 Vocal; 3 Leer; 4 Annual; 5 Assorted; 6 Marital; 7 Comprehension; 12 Ancestor; 13 Forward; 15 Averse; 18 Aroma; 19 Avid.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Steak; 4 Endives; 8 Genesis; 9 Norma; 10 Also; 11 Flamingo; 13 Port; 14 Etna; 16 Intimate; 17 Crib; 20 Unite; 21 Iranian; 22 Extreme; 23 Adept.

DOWN: 1 Signal failure; 2 Ennis; 3 Kiss; 4 Easels; 5 Dynamite; 6 Veranda; 7 Shadow cabinet; 12 Premiere; 13 Patriot; 15 Strive; 18 Rhine; 19 Gala.

ACROSS 1. Somehow proves at the finish it's blue! (9) 8. I will shortly be unwell (3) 9. Perhaps I find it's one of many in a dictionary? (11) 11. Study diplomacy with an acquaintance (7) 12. Mature commercial shown last month (5) 13. Give formal consent if a try works out (6) 15. Wet two enclosures (6) 17. The French journalists in Yorkshire? (5) 18. Mollusc out to do cop (7) 20. Are cheats of use in getting a good card (3,2,6) 22. The man returns to show assent (3) 23. He can see new aspect to the rocky hill (9)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. Wet Wet Wet had a number one hit in the UK charts with 'Love is all around'. Which prehistoric band was the first to make the song a hit?

2. The word for "unreasonably or illogically optimistic" stems from a fictional girl who played 'The Glad Game' when faced with life's difficulties.

What is her name?

3. In which three countries in the world would one find the most Spanish speaking people?

4. Deux-Deux was an able assistant in which popular TV show?

5. Which solo performer was Time Magazine's first 'Man of the Year' in 1927, and to this day, still the youngest winner?

6. Name the three people with the initials B. M. that have stars for excellance in recording (music) on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

7. The name of which 19th century Swiss hotel owner became a synonym for luxury, elegance, style and 'taste'?

8. Umami is one of the five what?

9. Dick Powell, Humphrey Bogart, James Garner, Elliot Gould and Robert Mitchum have all played which hard drinking character in film?

10. Can you name the last four clubs from outside of the top level of English football to reach the F.A. Cup final?

11. Figaro, Arlene, World War Two, Bastet and Jonesy are all what?

DOWN 2. I've gone out to compete (3) 3. Thus Ian upset a girl (5) 4. Car for a certain area of buildings (6) 5. Three-dimensional scene showing ten in the play (7) 6. It is a girl to decorate with delicate stuff (6,5) 7. After midnight heard it shone (9) 10. A trick in Who's Who, perhaps (4,3,4) 11. Singing girl accompanying Heather (9) 14. Ties with loud assent, anyhow (7) 16. Sweet way to tee off? (6) 19. The measure of crime (5) 21. A couple of Clint Eastwood films? (3)

( A n s we r s o n p a g e 2 3 ) 12. In which Bond film does Big Ben chime seven times at 6 pm, a signal that the British government has accepted SPECTRE's exorbitant ransom demands?

13. The following words are from songs with a country in the song title.

Name the song? a. In Hartford, Hereford and Hampshire ... hurricanes hardly happen. b. Down the way where the nights are gay. c. Miami Beach BOAC. d.You'd see them wearing their baggies, Huarache sandals too. e.

You're so sadly neglected and often ignored, a poor second to Belgium when going abroad.

14. P&O Shipping. What do 'P' and 'O' stand for?

15. Which two present day NATO members have at one time withdrawn from the alliance?

16. Who was the only man to win a posthumous Academy Award for best actor? (not best supporting actor) 17. Name the six longest rivers in the world with a colour in their name.

18. The five red crosses found on the flag of Georgia are said to have which religious significance?

19. The 'Impressionist' movement takes its name from the 1872 painting 'Impression, soleil levant' (Impression, Sunrise). Who painted it?

20. What is the opposite of the Lima syndrome?

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Freddie 'parrot face' Davies

Pay Corps he became a stand up comedian in 1958 at Butlin's, moving onto the Cabaret circuit in 1964.

Andrew Atkinson talks to Freddie 'parrot face' Davies, comedian, actor and TV star who rose to fame after appearing on Opportunity Knocks in 1964, who returns to the stage at the Stockport Plaza on October 10.

In the current crisis, if you look like your passport photo, your not fit enough to travel.”

Freddie, who starred on Saturday Night at the London Palladium, The Des O'Connor Show, The Tom Jones Show, The Bachelors Show and Blackpool Night Out, is looking forward to appearing at Stockport Plaza.

Amanda Barrie, actress who played Alma Halliwell in Coronation Street, starred in Carry On Films and TV Drama Bad Girls; Melvyn Hayes, actor, starred in BBC sitcom It Ain't Half Hot Mum; Anita Harris, actress, singer and entertainer who had 60s Chart hits, starred in Carry On Films, Follow That Camel and Carry On Doctor.

A LEGEND in his own right, Freddie Davies, 84, ranks amongst one of Britain's all-time greats - with a career spanning six decades.

Freddie, who is starring alongside Amanda Barrie, Melvyn Hayes and Anita Harris at the Stockport Plaza on October 10, said: "It’s for Talking Pictures, a TV Channel devoted to old, vintage films and television programmes."

“Last time I was in Spain my luggage got lost, luckily a sniffer dog found it.”

Joke With a combination age of 335 years, Freddie, 84, Amanda Barrie, 86, Melvyn Hayes, 86, and Anita Harris, 79, feature at Stockport Plaza in a show of nostalgia, with lost short films and Pathè News Reels.

“I was arguing with my wife because I’m thinking of going to Spain for my holidays.

She wants to come with me!”

Freddie who starred in films 'Funny Bones' in 1995 and 'Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban' returned to Britain after a spell in America, appearing in TV shows Heartbeat, Casualty, Last Of The Summer Wine and Preston Front.

"Talking Pictures do two days filming, celebrating the dedication to this cause and it usually attracts over 1,500 in the day.

"I’m doing an interview and a short performance, plus selling my Autobiography Funny Bones: My Life In Comedy," added Freddie.

After his National Service in the Royal Army

THE EFFORTS OF A PUSHY MUM CRUISING INTO TORREVIEJA Studio32 Musical Theatre Company are pleased to announce that rehearsals for our next production are well in advance and promises to be a fantastic show.

Rehearsals for this show started way back in January 2020, but due to COVID everything came to a halt.

BLOODY MARY played by Judith O’Neill

At the The Royal Nautical Club of Torrevieja (RCNT) last week the IV edition of the Alicante Association for Cruise Tourism was held, promoted by the Costa Blanca Board of Trustees.

and accessible city for cruise tourists ”.

She also spoke about the Salinas de Torrevieja (the Pink Lakes) as a differentiating attraction that would be included in the schedules of cruise ships that dock in

Alicante. Martínez said that a visit to the Salinas is ideal for cruise passengers, since its duration barely exceeds one hour.

It is ideal for children, family and the elderly, all of who could enjoy this environmental setting and learn also about the local ecosystem.

The object of the meeting was to address the new challenges currently being met by the sector, as well as showing shipping companies and tour operators the potential of the Alicante province.

The mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolón, opened the meeting that was also attended by the General Director of MSC Cruises, Fernando Pacheco.

Amongst the many presentations dealing with the reactivation of cruise tourism in the province the Councillor for Tourism and Deputy Mayor, Rosario Martínez, addressed the gathering in which she highlighted “Torrevieja, as a strategic tourist location of the highest value, a sustainable

Tickets for this show purchased in 2020 are still valid for the day shown on the ticket.

One of the main characters in the show is a Tonkinese woman called Bloody Mary.

SAT ANIMAL RESCUE

Deputy Mayor, Rosario Martínez, addressing the gathering.

IMAGE: Joaquin Carrion

PETS IN SPAIN Sansa is around 8 weeks old

She is a sassy native merchant who makes her living selling souvenirs to the American sailors, she is also desperately trying to find a husband for her daughter Liat who she thinks can give her a better life.

Riff is a happy, sociable

and in need of a new home.

energetic boxer. Loves kids,

She is in foster with other

The character is played by Judith O’Neill (pictured) who has appeared in many productions both in Spain and the UK.

good with cats and other ani-

The show which will be staged at San Fulgencio’s Cardenal Belluga Theatre, Wednesday 24th to Saturday 27th of November with the performances starting at 7:30pm.

For more info contact 966

Reserved seating tickets are now on sale, priced at 10 euros and can be obtained by emailing tickets@studiothirtytwo.org or by calling Philip on 602 617 848.

mals

cats, dogs and children and is in excellent health. Call: 645 469 253

710 047(leave a message) or email: info@satanimalrescue.com

www.petsinspain.com info@petsinspain.com

PAGE 16

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In the great flu pandemics of the early twentieth century, which killed millions of people, a Dr Joseph Ross of Manchester claimed to have saved the lives of hundreds of patients with his Cinnamon Treatment.

If they began taking it within the first day, they were usually over the flu within two days, five at the outside.

To try Dr Ross's treatment, you will need 75g of good quality cinnamon bark and a 75cl bottle of any old brandy.

Pack the cinnamon quills into the bottle and leave them to macerate for a week to ten days.

FLU STRUCK

At the very first ache or shiver of a cold or flu, take 1-2 teaspoonfuls in 2 tablespoons of hot water half-hourly for two hours, then hourly until your temperature is normal.

When there's flu around, beef up your immune defences with some effective herbs.

If you want to avoid alcohol, heat equal quantities of the brandy and water in a pan for a few minutes: the alcohol will evaporate off.

And if you become a victim trust them to see you through symptoms can include fever, a general achiness, headache, cough, sore throat and a bone-deep tiredness.

Flu

You can also use this as prevention: when there's flu around, take a daily dose in hot water at bedtime.

Like the cinnamon treatment, echinacea needs to be taken at the very first sign of flu, with regularly repeated doses.

You'll start to feel rotten up to four days after the virus has hit you — but like the common cold, it needs to be dealt with at the very first ache or shiver if you're going to get on top of it.

Stay in bed, rest, drink plenty of hot lemon with ginger and honey.

Cinnamon is actually one of the great antiseptics, I learned years later.

Try Dr Ross's cinammon

Take it at the first signs; it's a wonderful remedy for the assorted aches, pains and general misery, and it's a mild stimulant to the immune system, as well.

Here s an idea for you ..........

Hot cayenne pepper delivers a terrific boost to the immune system and warms you right through. Invest in a little bottle of capsicum tincture, and when you're feeling low, chilly and vulnerable, add a quarter of a teaspoon to a drink of hot lemon and honey. (Make sure the bottle is welllabelled, though, and keep out of reach of children!)

Boneset promotes gentle perspiration to help you throw off the infection and it needs to be drunk hot, so add the suggested dose of tincture to a nice comforting hot drink - perhaps freshly squeezed lemon in a mugful of boiling water with a little honey. Drink it in bed three times a day.

BONESET The plant’s common name is White Snakeroot

At my boarding school, all those years ago, we were dosed with cinnamon and quinine if we looked like coming down with something nasty.

This was standard treatment: up to the 1950’s or 60’s, any high-street chemist would have suggested cinnamon in large doses for a case of flu, because of its antiseptic and warming properties.

the bone-deep aching of classic flu.

ECHINACEA - A good product, of sufficient strength, will make your tongue tingle a little

treatment Don't economise here — buy your echinacea from a reputable herbal supplier. A good product, of sufficient strength, will make your tongue tingle a little: it's the echinacea trademark, and nothing to worry about. Better still, use echinacea at a lower dose as prevention: take it regularly through the flu season.

Keep some tincture of boneset on hand when the flu season looms; it's one of the first herbs a herbalist would turn to.

This was a remedy learned by settlers in North America from the natives, and it earned its name because it helps relieve

NEXT WEEK: VIRAL LOAD

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association supports the welfare needs of ex-members of the RAF and their dependents.

We also provide a social hub for members by organising monthly events. To fund Welfare we raise money through the Wings Appeal.

New members are very welcome. To find out more contact Chairman Tony at tony.elaine.cuenta@gmail.com For Welfare contact Bill or Pauline on 0034 634 38 99 83 or email rafacbpresident2@gmail.com.

For general information on RAFA visit www.rafa.org.uk.

computer clubs. Ladies Bible Study: Thursday 11a.m.

Church Bible Study: Thursday 1.30p.m. House groups in Torrevieja, La Siesta – Contact: 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. Phone: 966 799 273 / 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. www.icatorrevieja.org

CAR SALES The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2019 Ford Focus Active Automatic which is on Special Offer priced at just 22,500 euro.

Come along to our showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. The biggest and best for price, choice and quality. ENGLISH SPOKEN

CHURCHES AND SERVICES La Siesta Evangelical Church, Torrevieja is a friendly, English-speaking church. We currently hold services at 11.15am on the 2nd and 4th Sundays each month (and the 5th Sunday when there is one). For more info about our church, please see our website at www.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org For info see www.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org 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

HELEN...

Montesinos. We are a lively, friendly church and look forward to meeting you. (Covid19 aware. www.Saltchurchspain.

Facebook SaltChurchSpain The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) 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 648 914 347 International Christian Assembly, Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, Torrevieja Evangelical non-denominational church. Sunday service 11a.m.; Sunday school; Prayer meetings; craft and

SOCIAL AND CLUBS The next meeting of the Royal British Legion Orihuela Costa and District Branch will be held at 7 for 7.30 pm on Thursday 21 Oct at the Olympia Pool Bar in Mil Palmeras. Everyone welcome, incl non members. Call Jean for info on: 630 28 08 99.

The Royal British Legion, Torrevieja Branch - Meets at the Oasis, formerly the Casa Ventura, San Luis on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6.30 pm for 7pm start. New members are always welcome. You do not have to be ex-services.

For more info please contact:gill.burden20@gmail.com

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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 Residential Home Visiting Team. to visit people in a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee. If you think you can help 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 1700 (5pm) at CHE LOCO bar/restaurant, El Chaparral urbanisation, Torrevieja. For more information please contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on 693 866 709, Vice Chairman Danny Kay on 966 71 6274 or Secretary Margaret Forshaw on 966 92 1966.

Royal Air Force Association Costa Blanca Branch.The

HAH CB need you to help us help those in need in their own homes, short or long term medical conditions of all ages and nationalities. Contact our head office on 965 328 794 or e:charitycentrehelpathomecb @gmail.com.

Curious about the work of Samaritans in Spain? Have a few hours a week to help with the charity shop, fundraising or admin? Come and join us for a chat at our Centre in the Punta Marina Shopping Centre. Volunteers are unpaid but expenses are met. Email: spainsamsrecruits @outlook.com

office@theleader.info

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PAGE 19

SAN LUIS BOWLS CLUB

I

t was wonderful last week to see club representatives doing battle on the green and also, finally having the chance to meet up with other friends/ fellow bowlers (once we’d lifted our masks to verify the face!!).

STUCK IN TRAFFIC The sun is trying very hard to peep from behind the clouds, to once more spread its rays across the patio where we are sitting, some say the dark puffs in the sky are the result of the volcano in the Canary Islands.

We are on the terrace overlooking the valley and interestingly watching birds in the adjoining campo.

There are Swallows, with their white markings speedily swooping and diving as they collect the bugs out of the air. It is a ritual they do around this time of year before lining up on the electric cables preparing for their flight down South, where we are told in the ‘Bird Book,’ they emigrate to, predominantly South Africa via the Sahara Desert, returning to Spain in the spring.

A fantastic sight watching their twists and turns at high speed, some coming close to where we are sitting, a glass in hand, ducking, trying not to spill the liquid as it seems they will collide with us.

But they turn away smartly to collect something out of the air and continue with their antics.

My wife and I are chatting about general things and some of the mis-leading items that are published on social media. For instance the person who wanted to sell a sofa stating ‘we do not have any pets so there are no hairs on it’ in the background of the picture is a cat sitting on a table. There was another, a self-portrait of a guy, who must have been late for an appointment as he posted that he was stuck in traffic. In the dark sunglasses he was wearing some bright person recognised the reflected image of an empty road, which must have been in front of him.

I do not know why shoes come to mind, certainly I could not see any swallows wearing any – now that was silly – but while watching them in their actions the mind wonders to events in the past.

So what is it about shoes? Female ones I mean! I am told by the Guinness book of records that the owner of the largest collection of shoes is Ms Darlene Flynn who owns over fourteen thousand pairs.

But what is it about shoes that Darlene loves so much? "They are beautiful, they are feminine," Darlene continues. "My favourites are the ones that are the most unique, or the ones I bought in the different states and countries I have travelled in."

Digressing slightly - there is a stall in a Sunday market that sells

miniature high heel shoes – why?

They are too small to be worn even by a toy doll.

Congratulations to everyone who took part in the Valencian Championships; just to survive the very hot conditions was an achievement for the players, markers & umpires.

What started this train of thought was an event that happened in nineteen eighty. At that time, we lived in the West Country and my in-laws lived in West Essex, with London and over one hundred miles in between us.

I have to admit I was more than happy to sit in the shade, feeling the breeze and watch the semi finals & finals. For the spectators we had the excitement of watching some great cat & mouse games with some real oohs! & aahs! moments, as befits a Championship tournament.

This is very sad and brings a lump to my throat as my father in law was very ill. My wife had gone back to help the his nursing but unfortunately, one year into his retirement, he left us.

It seemed pointless for me and our youngest daughter to leave any earlier than the day of the funeral, so on that morning my lady told me that as our child did not have the required colour adornment for her feet, we needed to buy some black shoes for our offspring before travelling to attend the event. It seemed a simple task, take our thirteen-year-old into the Bristol shopping centre and buy the needed item. But I did not understand the importance of shoes for the female.

First there was the problem, as always, of finding somewhere to park, nevertheless we were there as the shops opened … plenty of time.

The first shop and the pair of black shoes fitted well and looked right, but, daughter said she did not like them and after the shop assistant searched, without success, for another type we left and went to a second shop.

No matter how much I begged, maintaining that time was getting short, and she should make her mind up, it did not work. Six shops were visited before we went back to the first one to buy the initial pair she had tried on. We missed the event in Essex and I am not sure if I was ever forgiven for being absent.

WASTE: I often think about how untidy streets and other areas are, like the Cheltenham Festival after the revellers have left, with the ground awash with rubbish, similar to the seaside beaches when the sun has gone down. Early one day we witnessed the next generation of a couple of ‘waste trainees’ in action.

We were once more sitting on a terrace, this time outside a Chinese Restaurant. Not far from us on another table were two women, perhaps in their late twenties, who incidentally had parked their two cars in the middle of a small car park, blocking in others.

One had a little girl, the other a lit-

Scott Malden was our sole surviving participant and after beating Colin Lindgren (EI) in the semifinal, he came up against Peter Morgan (Q) who was defending his Men’s Singles title.

Scott Malden was the club’s only finalist

tle boy, both the children were around about four or five years old.

The two parents were busy chatting while the children did as they pleased.

The boy was busy collecting paper serviettes from the table and taking them to the pavement on a busy road and then dumping them in the road gutter. In the meantime, the young girl was busy peeling signs off the back of chairs.

Neither of them were reprimanded

for what they were doing. Yes, dear reader, I am old fashioned and weep at how the world is today.

From shoes to rubbish - I take my leave. Take care.

Facebook.com/ percy chattey On Amazon and Kindle for thrilling novels type in ‘Series percy chattey’ for short stories type in ‘Series story telling.’

VISTABELLA BOWLS REPORT. The Valencian Men’s and Ladies Pairs finals were contested on Tues. 28th.Sept.

In very warm conditions excellent bowling was witnessed by all the teams competing. Vistabella Bowls Club were represented in both finals. In the ladies final Vistabella ladies Carol Thorpe and Kath Reid had a great start scoring freely 10 – 0 after three ends. However Carol Donnelan and Della Wailes of Country Bowls started to tighten the game up with some excellent bowling from their leading lady but just could not catch Vistabella ladies who kept the pressure up until the end winning handsomely with some really great shots by Carol Thorpe and consistent lead bowling by Kath Reid. Well done Vistabella ladies !

The Mens Pairs was a very hard fought game between two very talented teams.

Peter Bonsor and John Neil of Greenlands Bowls and Martin Foulcer and Ian Kenyon of Vistabella Bowls. A fierce battle ensued with the score all square after nine ends of 10 – 10 with really good bowling from both sides. Come the last two ends fortune went Greenlands way who pushed forward for a great win.

Well done Peter and John.

A good week for Vistabella ! Well done to all !

Vistabella Bowls Club is sponsored by, Oneway Services, Serenity Insurance, Carpet Heaven. How about coming and have a go at bowling we would be pleased to see you. We can arrange a free session and lesson . You could get hooked it’s a fabulous game and a very sociable one you’ll meet lots of new friends.

Also bowlers are most welcome, we have a brand new green and are looking for new members. Please contact: Club Captain –Neil Burrows neilburrows@gmail.com or Charlie Watkins Membership Secretary charlieatpathways@yahoo.co.uk. Reported by : Montestan

Scott put up a good fight, with shots changing back & forth and some excellent draw bowling from both. But in the end, Peter came through to take an amazing 3rd consecutive win.

Unfortunately, for reasons beyond our control our 3 day Open Mixed Triples competition, which should be happening now, had to be cancelled.

But after recent weeks of friendlies, internal team matches & getting to know our new members better, we are all looking forward to actually getting on the green in real league matches.

We have teams entered in the Monday (South Alicante), Friday (Southern) leagues + the Wednesday Winter League (which involves Northern teams as well). If you’re interested you can come along & watch on match days, join in on a Saturday morning with the “Chicken Drive” or speak with Club Captain: June Jones: 691903773 email: keithjones81@hotmail.com for more information or to arrange coaching. There is a range of membership fees for 12, 7 or 3 months.

We’re a friendly group & our Social Sec. (Dee) is gradually extending our social activities as we look forward to Christmas.

Obviously, although many people are “doublejabbed” Covid is still an ongoing issue; so there are protocols to follow – which may vary slightly from club to club. All we can do is take care of ourselves & the people around us and enjoy the opportunity to play, which we hope will continue all through the season.

By Sheila Cammack

PAGE 20

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Monday 4th - Sunday 10th October, 2021

the Bears and one dropped for the champs.

Dannys Bar made it two wins from two at the expense of the useful C.C.'s. Dannys, Karen Raffell on D4 gave the visitors first blood, only for the ever youthful Kevin Prockter to level on a nice 107, T19,S18,D16.

The next five legs went the visitors way, the best of which was the first pair Paul Hudson and skipper Bob Smith 95,95,125,D2.

Who better to be next for C.C.'s but the consistent Charles Pritchett, who usually delivers and he did with 140,100 and straight out on D2.

Smith featured next for Dannys, duly nailing D16 for the win. lt could have been a different result as the next three went the hosts way, the blind draw favouring Dannys. Suso Madrid 47 out, Prockter 56 out and Dougie Adkin finally pinning D1, for 5-7.

MOTM, Smith and Pritchett.

THURSDAY 30 SEPTEMBER MATCH RESULTS WEEK 2 Hub Hyenas Pint Depot Queens Ale House Totties Tipsy Toad Tiaras CC's Flyers El Capitan Wee Rock Horrors Milos

10-2 5-7 5-7 0-12 5-7 6-6 11-1 3-9

Ale House Lads Freakie Taverners Hub Hellraisers Mind The Gap Danny's Bar Boris' Bears Domino's Desperados Tipsy Toad Toppers

LEAGUE TABLE P Pts Legs Mind The Gap 2 4 24 Hub Hyenas 2 4 22 Danny's Bar 2 4 19 Tipsy Toad Toppers 2 4 19 Freakie Taverners 2 4 15 El Capitan 2 3 18 Wee Rock Horrors 2 2 13 CC's Flyers 2 2 12 Ale House Lads 2 2 11 Boris' Bears 2 1 11 Hub Hellraisers 2 2 11 Milos 2 0 6 Ale House Totties 2 0 5 Pint Depot Queens 2 0 5 Tipsy Toad Tiaras 2 0 2 Domino's Desperados 2 0 1

Mark Ellis in good form for The Hub

Hub Hellraisers gained their first points of the season, in a narrow victory over the Totties of Ale House. A favourable 2-4 advantage at half time, was quickly extended after the break, Jan Hassall D2 and Ann Taylor D18 ensuring at least a draw for the Hellraisers.

The Totties reduced the scoreline, Winnie McKay closing on D7 in a tight tussle with Hub skipper Cheryl McGlynn. Lesley Dolling D2 guaranteed both points for the visitors, Ellie Robertson D6 ending the match. MOTM Jan Hassall and Winnie McKay.

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Taverners notched up their 2nd win this time over the Queens, ensuring victory in the very last leg via MOTM Karen Morris. Despite sharing singles victories, the Queens were 2-4 down at the break, a difficult position to retrieve.

Jade Hockton gained her MOTM with an excellent individual win over Trevor Morris. Annette Dobson top scored for the Freakies.

Judging by the performance from both sides in the Hub v Ale House match, both will be lucky to make the 2nd division next Febuary. lt was dire. Darius Sierra did however put everyone out of their misery on D1 in the 1st leg at around 9-30pm.

Thereafter things improved for both, the Hub taking advantage of some poor finishing, rounding off the 1st half with a 5-1 lead. Mark Ellis recording 6 x 80+, 125 and a S20,S20,D20 out.

Former Ale House shooter Alan Havelock, made it 6 for the hosts, on a 52 out, Bob Taylor edging out MOTM Sierra, on D4 for both points. Dale McGuiness found D10 in a high scoring encounter with Durrant, for the Lads 2nd leg. Ellis outscored a below par Andre Wing, with 3 x 100 and D10, prior to Alex Nikolov making it 9 for the hosts with T7, S19, D20.

John Eyre wrapped up the match against an unusually out of sorts Karl Mallinson.

Mind the Gap created a big one taking the first 6 legs without any real opposition from the Tiaras. Darren Sanderson clocked up a 180 in the third triples, first throw, and also bagged a 140, 125, 121 and a ton in his 4 appearances at the oche, earning him MOTM. He was ably supported by his 5 teammates, Bliss Wright finishing 2 legs D20 and D1, very narrowly beating Lisa Ivill to the finish in their singles. Partner James Brown nabbed 3 finishes, 2 x 140's and 2 x 100's and just snatched the single from Sharon Marshall as did Paul Moody from Elizabeth Cowan and her husband Gordon from Pat Schofield (122) MOTM for the Tiaras.

All the ladies gave good account of themselves in the singles and could very easily have claimed a few points. A great night and over quite early, allowing the Tiaras some post-match practice to ready themselves for next week.

Toppers star 'Ton machine' Lee Maiden

Highest check-outs - John Eyre (T20,S20,D20) 120. Dario Sierra (15-20-Bull) 85 180’s - Dale McGuiness, Ale House Lads, 23/09, Darren Sanderson, Mind the Gap 30/9.

It

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was a real belter this week at Milos when entertaining the Toppers from the Tipsy Toad. Thirty odd tons and ton plus scores, including a magnificent 174 from Wayne Houson, was the outcome from this outstanding match. Milos, via Richie McSweeney on D18, opened the scoring, team mate Bob Deamer contributing 300 points from the 701.

Toppers response was emphatic, seven straight legs giving them the match and 2 points. Main contributor Lee Maiden with, 3 x 100,125,134,141 prior to his losing single to McSweeney, adding 97,99,125. Best of the pairs Chelsea Campbell 2 x 100,119 and Darren Boyle 120, in a losing game to Andy Rutter, partner Houson 174, D2. Boyle added a singles victory, for Milos 3rd leg, Rutter and Hugh Galloway taking the remaining singles for a 3-9 result.

MOTM, Houson and McSweeney.

League champions El Capitan, had their wings clipped this week by a determined Bears side. The Bears were 2 up in no time through Barry Shingler D10 and Liam Lumb D16, the Caps responding with the next three. Bears replied to level at 3-3, Ron Chadwick partnering Lumb to conclude the first half.

Both sides shared the next four singles, Arold Klimonis and Vycka Bobinas, for the Caps, Shingler and Yvonne Rouffignac gaining the spoils for Bears. Ken Skinner gave the visitors a 5-6 advantage, the in form Lumb last game on, versus Ed Klimonis. It was the latter to take the plaudits including MOTM as did Lumb. A worthy point for

27 year old.

nder scrutiny this week, the New Tavern, San Miguel. Although having just joined the OWS league, most would be familiar with the venue, as they have previously hosted the Christmas mixed pairs and will again do so this year.

U

Roxanne Chapman runs the spacious venue under the watchful eye of father lan, the family been in situ for fourteen years. Apart from darts and pool," Roxy "as she prefers, oversees a popular Friday, Music Bingo, with some very nice prizes.

The Taverns chef is kept busy covering a full weekly menu, including Wednesday and Friday " Steak Nights " plus a Sunday " Carvery " to cater for the traditional. Originally from Devon, Roxy prefers the music of Coldplay, lead singer Chris Martin also a Devonian, born just four miles from the

A busy Roxy Tavern regulars, the Chadwicks, Jane and Ben

Sadly the mother of one is a non dart player, but will take the time to watch " The Power " Phil Taylor. Like many " foodies " Roxy's first choice of ltalian, should go down well with her preferred dinner guests, chat show host James Corden, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp and singing superstar Lady Ga Ga. Klopp, first on her list as she's an avid " Red ", but also useful for some coaching as the West Country girl plays " footie " for the San Miguel ladies side.

Despite parking difficulties, the Tavern is a worthwhile visit, be it for Bingo, a game of pool or a juicy Friday night steak. You may even meet one or two of the " Freakie Taverners " darts team, why " Freakie ", l was reluctant to ask.

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PAGE 21

Seve escaping again.

THE SUMMER OF 1976 was a scorcher. The pavements were melting. The fairways at Royal Birkdale were burnt brown.

In the Open Championship that year watching the superb performances of Johnny Miller and a young Seve Ballesteros was one Maurice Flitcroft, a crane operator from Barrow-in-Furness who had attempted to qualify for the tournament despite having never played a round of golf in his life.

Flitcroft had been inspired after seeing golf on television and was convinced he could do it. He simply completed an entry form, declared himself a professional and was given a tee time in the qualifying round at Formby Golf Club.

He showed up full of enthusiasm in plastic shoes and a fishing hat with a half bag of mail order Wilson Avenger clubs. Getting down on all fours at the first he carefully balanced his ball, then sent his opening drive a mere 40 yards down the fairway.

His card would include an eight, a nine, an 11 and a 12 with a question mark as he slogged through an horrific round and carded a 49-over 121, a record which unsurprisingly, still stands. His mother was thrilled when informed that he had scored the highest-ever score in British Open history.

His irritated playing partners had their entry fees refunded and Flitcroft politely withdrew.

The R & A, Infuriated at having their prestigious game “made a mockery of” banned him for life from tournaments and all golf clubs, but he afterwards entered other competitions disguised in wigs and moustaches, under pseudonyms such as Gene Paycheki and Gerald Hoppy, He must have been a perishing nuisance on the course, but he became quite a celebrity and was offered an all-expenses paid trip to the US as guest of honour at a golf tournament in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Flitcoft died in 2007, and a film will shortly be released based on his biography “The Phantom of the Open.”

In the first two rounds of the Open Seve Ballesteros had scored a brilliant 69, thrilling the crowds. He prepared for the third round by visiting a Southport discotheque the night before and was spotted with his brother checking the local talent.

On the 3rd day the weather turned wet and the 19 yr. old Spaniard's play was more erratic but he escaped some near disasters with a 73 and at five under remained two clear of Miller.

In Saturday’s final round he came unstuck at the 11th when he hooked his drive, shanked his sec-

ond, hit a spectator, ended in an unplayable lie near the green and carded a triple-bogey seven.

Miller, quietly making pars look easy with his beloved one iron took the lead and kept it, collecting the Claret Jug and £7,500.

After a brilliant chip at the 18th Seve managed 2nd place, tied with Jack Nicklaus. In the background in one or two photos is Maurice Flitcroft in disguise, who had come to Birkdale with his expenses paid by the Sunday People. The Hackers Hero had made it to the Open.

“SHIP STICKS” is An American golf cub transporting company which has won the “Best Golf Club Shipper" award six years in a row.

The door-to-door service picks up the golf clubs and luggage directly from home, office, club or resort and delivers them to their destination anywhere in the world through networks like Fedex

LA MARINA BOWLS CLUB It's back, bowls as we know it,even if you don't play watching in marvellous weather is just a pleasant way to pass time.

Wednesday 29th saw the continuation of our Barclays Properties 3-2-1 league run by Don Fowkes and it felt so good sitting up on top of the terrace watching fellow members compete against each other. The team names are the same as last year and wherever possible the same members.

The results were: Dolphins 8-0 Monkeys, Tigers 2-6 Bears Lambs 2-6 Koalas Pandas 2-6 Collies Seals 0-8 Lions Leaving us with the Lions at the head of our league table with 51 points closely followed by the Koalas with 46 and the Lambs with 44.

It is an American success story, but even so, a UK company would probably have hesitated before calling itself a tongue-twister like “Ship Sticks!”

ARCHAEOLOGISTS WERE EXCITED when a bronze age burial was discovered at the Tetney Golf Club near Grimsby. A coffin made from a whole oak tree trunk was dug out of a pond, and was found to have once contained a 4000 year old person who appears to be a tribal leader, together with what looked like a long-handled axe.

Nonsense, it's obvious who he had been; the local golf club Captain complete with his putter. He was probably trampled by a woolly mammoth strolling across the course.

Until next time: Happy Golfing.

Contact Mick for regripping and repairs. 638 859 475.

TORREVIEJA WINTER POOL LEAGUE

By Dave Hadaway

We have just spent a week at either Emerald Isle or Quesada BC watching the Valencians or more accurately watching La Marina BC members compete in the Valencians. The old British adage that it's the taking part not winning proved accurate but our members participated in some tremendous games with our Men's Pairs of Len Daniels and John Rae losing in the semi-final to the eventual winners, and our men's singles players of John Rae and Mick Lowe both losing to Roli Bell of Bonalba BC by a single shot in successive rounds. Our thanks and congratulations go to our team of competitors it was a great show.

and DHL.

ORIHUELA COSTA GAELS GAA Orihuela Costa Gaels GAA are looking for new players ahead of the new 2021-22 season.

"Just over nine months since we all got together and played our last game, it's time to lace up and get back to training," Lenny Lenihan from Orihuela Costa Gail's told The Leader.

Orihuela Costa Gaels GAA are part of Gaelic football played on the Costas with the mens senior teams being part of the Andalusian, Iberian and European Leagues.

Gaelic football star Dublin born Gerard ‘Lenny’ Lenihan was at the forefront of inaugurating a Gaelic club in Spain.

O.C Gaels were officially registered in October 2020, based in the the Alicante and Murcia region of Spain, with Lenihan, 38, who was selected for Ireland in the World Championship in Australia, having won a winner’s medal after defeating Papa New Guinea in 2011, at the forefront.

The team returned back to training in September and Lenny added: "We're looking for new members to join our great group of lads. Details of our next training session can be found on Facebook."

Orihuela Costa Gaels GAA looking for new players.

LEAGUE FIXTURES, WEEK 1 OCTOBER 6: DIVISION 1: Quiet Man v Terreza, Office Aces v Britannia A, F/Station (bw) v Unity Bar, Bar Next Door v Santana A. DIVISION 2: Mi Sol v Office Bulls, Murphs v F/Station Rolex, Britannia B v Racin Toast II, Bar 6 v Marie's Rendezvous, Santana B v The Courtyard A. DIVISION 3: Arianza v Reflections, The Courtyard B v Oasis, Micky's Bar v Thirsty Boot, Irish Abbey v Deja Vu Sports Bar, The George v Laguna.

TORREVIEJA POOL CUP DRAW ROUND 1.

DIVISION 1: Santana A v Unity Bar, Britannia A v Bar Next Door, Terreza v Office Aces, Fire Station (bw) v Quiet Man. DIVISION 2 Preliminary rounds to be played before 27th October.

Mi Sol v Murphs, The Courtyard A v Marie's Rendezvous.

Round 1: The Courtyard A/ Marie's Rendezvous v Fire Station (gw); Bar 6 v Britannia B, Office Aces v Murphs/Mi Sol, Racin Toast II v Santana B. DIVISION 3 Preliminary round to be played before 27th October.

Micky's Bar v Irish Abbey, Laguna v Reflections.

Round 1: Arianza v Micky's/Irish Abbey, Thirsty Boot v The Courtyard B, Laguna/Reflections v The George, Oasis v Dejavus Sports Bar.

PAGE 22

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Mike Probert talks Golf H

ere on the Costa’s golf is one of the biggest leisure time activities for both tourists and resident alike and with this in mind we have secured the services of Mike Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services to provide a weekly round up of local golfing events and topics and in conjunction with us at THE LEADER will provide discounted golf prices to all of our readers.

‘Barefooting’

This article is for those weight watchers amongst you and I do not We at THE LEADER are committed to providing to our golfing readers affordable golf without the need to join a club or apply for a card but simply contact the number below to have instant access to discounted golf prices, many of which are exclusive to us: The deals shown in the table are some of the best prices currently available to you: Price €150 €100 €120 €135 €158

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mean those of you who pile on extra pounds simply by looking at a gateaux.

We are talking here about the positioning of your body weight through your full golf swing.

To re-confirm what many of you already know, at the address position your weight should be evenly distributed between both feet but then moving more to your right foot on the back swing and transferring to more to your left foot at the point of impact and to the follow through.

Clearly these instructions apply when you have a perfectly flat lie on the tee or through the green.

For the more mature reader amongst you and particularly those with nimble feet this article is not about a dance from the 60’s or about Sandie Shaw who won the Eurovision song contest singing puppet on a string wearing nothing on her feet.

Course Alenda Alicante Altorreal Bonalba Campoamor

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th October, 2021

Comments Two Green Fees & Buggy Two Green Fees & Buggy (from 1pm) Two Green Fees & Buggy Two Green Fees & Buggy Two Green Fees & Buggy

However course architects have this habit of putting slopes, hills, humps and hollows in your way and these can affect your weight distribution.

For example if your ball is on a lie above your feet you must place more pressure on your toes at the address position to prevent you ‘falling’ back down the hill during your swing.

Don Cayo (Altea) El Plantio El Valle Font Del Llop Hacienda Del Alamo La Finca La Marquesa La Sella La Serena La Torre Las Colinas Las Ramblas Lorca

€120 €100 €61 €153 €60 €214 €150 €130 €134 €61 €120 €164 €100

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Obviously for a lie with the ball below your feet you do the opposite and place more weight on your heels to prevent ‘falling’ forwards down the hill during the swing.

For uphill and downhill lies it is most important that your posture is correct and that you keep your body perpendicular to the slope and try not to ‘lean’ towards or backwards from the slope.

Then of course there are the uphill and downhill cross-hill lies…….

Just where do you put your weight then?

One of the best golfers of all time was Sam Snead and to gain a better understanding of where his weight was located during his swing he used to practise barefooted.

Obviously this is better conducted off grass rather than those horrible mats at the driving range but give it a try off various type of lie and you will notice that you have a heightened awareness of your body weight position and distribution during the swing.

Go on give it a go what is the worst thing that can happen, ant bites or blisters maybe but what happens if your golf gets better?

Lo Romero €214 Two Green Fees & Buggy Mar Menor €60 Single Green Fee New Sierra Golf €82 Two Green Fees & Buggy Puig Campana €124 Two Green Fees & Buggy Roda €180 Two Green Fees & Buggy Saurines €60 Single Green Fee Villaitana Levante €97 Single Green Fee Villaitana Poniente €67 Single Green Fee Villamartin €180 Two Green Fees & Buggy Vistabella €159 Two Green Fees & Buggy (from 2.00pm) For Bookings and info Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting reference LEADER or on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931

THE RBL & ON COURSE FOUNDATION GOLF DAY 96 Players in 24 teams assembled for the 12th running of this recent event. The weather forecast for the day was not very promising, but we were blessed with an almost perfect day for golf The teams were split into 2 divisions, one for WHS players and the other for Society handicaps. They both played a waltz of 2 scores to count on hole 1, 3 on hole 2, and 4 on hole 3, then back to 2 scores again.

In the WHS Division the winners were Clarkes Bar 1. 124 PTS. Runners up were Clarkes Bar 2. 121 Pts. Best at Not Winning were Royal Oak 2.

In the Society Handicap Division the winners were Woodstock 123 PTS. Runners up were Fuegos Tapas Bar 120 PTS. Best at Not Winning were the Lucky Clovers.

Due to an error the team from Lo Marabu were disqualified which was a shame as they would have won their division.

Each received a consolation bottle of wine to drown their sorrows.

The Putting Competition was won by Woodstock Bar, La Marina.

Nearest the Pin winners Hole 2 was Trevor Scammell from PJ's Rent a Car. Hole 7 Daniel from Royal Oak 2. Hole 11 Gavin Riddell from Albatross Golf Tours.

Hole 15 Barry Davies from Lo Marabu.

The whole event was a great success raising €1,705. to split between the two charities.

Many thanks are due to Joaquim

Rocamora and his team at Vistabella Golf for allowing us to use the whole course for this event and also for his generous donation of a coolbag for each player.

WHS Division winners Clarkes Bar 1

Graeme Wilson from Golden Leaves Funeral Plans who once again sponsored the trophies.

The two ladies on the Hole 15 Challenge which raised €300 included in the total.

The Leader Newspaper for their continued support in publicising the event and taking photos of the winners.

John and Mal Jones who sponsored the NTP's. Galaxy Golf for the Putting Competition, local businesses who gave prizes for the raffle, including Jane Knight of Knights Cakes who baked a special cake for the day, Sliders Bar at Blue Lagoon, the Woodstock Bar at La Marina a case of wine, Clarkes Bar, Pat Packham and Mike Probert from Costa Blanca Green Fees who gave generous donations. Gavin Riddell from Albatross Golf Tours and Bob Smith from the Celts Club De Golf, La Serena, who had the unenviable task of checking the score cards.

Society Handicap Division winners were Woodstock

Finally a big thank you to all of the players, without whom these events could not take place. It is very encouraging to get this level of support in these trying times.

Next Years's event is already booked at Vistabella golf for Thursday September 25th 2022 so book early to reserve a place by phoning Bob Smith on 693 788 661. There is also going to be an extra event in June, please phone Charlie Rogers on 618 181 703 for details.

The RBL Cake

Out on the course

The Lime Bar

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MORGAN MAKES IT THREE IN A ROW Peter Morgan of Quesada Bowls eases to his third consecutive Valencian Men’s Singles Title

BY SUZI COOPER On Monday & Tuesday the Valencian Championships came down to the wire with the Finals of each of the disciplines played at the Emerald Isle.

In the Mixed Triples the home side of Sue Bosworth, Peta Rhodes & Andy Miles were against the Country Bowls trio of Sheena Mallet, Dennis Wade & John Mallet.

This match was always going to be close & it did’t let us down. The scores were level at 5 each, 10 each & 12 each before the Greenlands pairs won 5 of the remaining 6 ends to take the win 19-13.

After a short break it was the turn of the two blue ribbon events, the Mens & Ladies Singles.

It was a close match but the Country Bowls team won the final 3 ends to take the title, 16-12. This is the second year that the triples has been won by a trio from Country Bowls.

In the Ladies it was Peta Rhodes (past Valencian & National Champion) against Lisa Bonsor. Peta started off quickly scoring 13 shots, but then Lisa battled her way back into the match. After 16 ends she was still 6-20 down but won the next 5 ends before Peta managed to score that elusive 21st shot and take the title 21-13.

The Mixed Pairs saw Chris & Dennis Wright of Bonalba take on Lisa & Peter Bonsor of Greenlands.

The Bonalba pair failed to find their form of the previous matches, so Lisa & Peter romped to a convincing win 31-7.

The Mens singles had the Champion of the last 2 years, Peter Morgan of Quesada, taking on Scott Malden of San Luis. This was another great match to watch and after 12 ends there was just a single shot between them.

On to Tuesday morning and the turn of the Mens & Ladies pairs.

Again, after 18 ends Peter lead by just a single shot.

He went on to win 4 of the last 5 ends & take the title for the 3rd year running 21-16.

In the Ladies competition Carole Donnellan & Della Wailes of Country Bowls played against Kath Reid & Carol Thorpe of Vistabella. The Vistabella ladies were always in control of this match and went on to take the title 28-12.

The Mens Pairs brought together 2 strong pairings in Martin Foulcer & Ian Kenyon of Vistabella and John O’Brien (Competition Secretary) & Peter Bonsor of Greenlands.

All of the tournament winners Peta Rhodes and Lisa Bonsor

Following the games the Presentation of prizes took place and thanks were given to both host clubs, Quesada & Emerald Isle, their committees & members. Thanks were also given to the umpires & markers who gave up their time during the competition, the sponsors Linea Directa, who continue to support bowls in Spain, and finally John O’Brien for his hard work before & during the event.

QUESADA BOWLS

By Steve Hibberd

SC Torrevieja CF go top of Regional Div 9

Congratulations to QBC member Pete Morgan, who won the Valencians singles championship finals by 21 points to 16. This latest victory, gave Pete his 3rd successive Valencian singles winners medal. Twas a heart-breaking, so close yet so far, for fellow member Irene Everett. Her semifinal ladies singles match, saw Irene lose by the narrowest of margins - (20-21).

Guardamar Soccer

Atletico Torrellano B jumped seven places to go fifth following a 3-0 away win at Bigastro CF. Monovar Atletico A took a point in a 1-1 draw at home against Callosa Deportiva CF. SC Torrevieja take to the field SC Torrevieja CF top the Valencia 1st Regional Group 9 table after a 3-0 away win at Orihuela CF B. A spectacular overhead kick by Gonzalo was the pick of the goals with debutant Cases getting the other two.

Second place CF Atletico Algorfa defeated Racing San Miguel 1-0. While fifth placed CF Rafal defeated CD Benijofar 2-1.

Guardamar hit 12 against Aspense Guardamar Soccer CD hit 12 goals without reply in a landslide 12-0 win against UD la Coca Aspense, a win that takes them to the top the Valencia 2nd Regional Group 16.

Quesada played an annual friendly match against Legionnaires at La Siesta last week. For the record, QBC & Legionnaires each won on 2 rinks, with 1 being drawn. A post-match meal was held at nearby Dilly's bar, where arrangements for next year's encounter were made.

Formentera CF and Atletico Benejuzar took a point apiece in a 2-2 four goals thriller and UE Crevilente FB defeated CD ANSWERS FROM PAGE 14: Altet 1-0.

TRIVEA QUIZ

In the Preferente league the local derby between Almoradi and CD Thader played on Sunday afternoon ended with a win for the visitors by 1-0 with the only goal of the game coming in the 41st minute from Ruben. The win keeps Thader in 3rd position in the league after 5 games just 3 pts behind Rayo Ibense and Crevillente who are both undefeated.

Three in a row for Peter

Kath Reid and Carol Thorpe

1. The Troggs, 2. Pollyanna (Pollyannaism), 3. Mexico (111 million), Colombia (46 million) and the USA (45 million), 4. The Pink Panther Show.

(Deux-Deux was the Inspectors sidekick), 5. Charles Lindbergh, 6. Bob Marley, Barry Manilow and Bette Midler, 7. Ritz, 8. Tastes. The others are sweet, sour, bitter and salty. 9. Philip Marlowe, 10. Cardiff City (2008), Millwall (2004), Sunderland (1992) and Queens Park Rangers (1982), 11. Cats. Figaro (Pinocchio) Arlene (Garfield) World War Two (Peanuts) Bastet (Eygptian cat god-

Carp R Us Fishing Club This Thursday saw Carp-R-Us finally return, for the first time in nearly two years, to the Rio Segura in the centre of Murcia.

Much has changed since out last visit with a nice new pathway and plenty of plants lining the bank, making this a very attractive venue.

The river itself seemed quite low and coloured but this didn’t stop our visiting Welsh members from taking the honours. First off peg 10 (above the bridge) was Alan Davis 9.70kg, second from peg 5 (below the bridge) was Doug Hornblow with 8.59kg.

Third, making a welcome return after a break of several month, was Dave Sutton with 6.30kg which would have been more if he hadn’t dropped a large fish back into the river instead of his keep net. Fourth was the ever-consistent Willy Moons with 5.25kg. All fished the feeder.

Further information about the club can be found on its website www.carp-r-us.weebly.com or on Facebook page Carp-R-Us Fishing Costa Blanca.

dess) Jonesy (Alien), 12. Thunderball, 13. a. The rain in Spain (My Fair Lady), b. Jamaica Farewell (Harry Belefonte), c. Back in the USSR (Beatles), d. Surfin USA (Beach Boys), e. Finland (Monty Python), 14. Peninsular and Oriental, 15. France and Greece, 16. Peter Finch (Network), 17. Yellow River (5,464 km), Red River (2,188 km), Orange River (2,092 km), Blue Nile (1,600 km), Green River (1,175 km) and White River (1,102 km), 18. The five holy wounds of Christ, 19. Claude Monet, 20. Stockholm syndrome. (Lima syndrome: Hostage takers sympathise with the hostages)

SUDUKO SOLUTION From From page 14

PAGE 24

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