The Leader Newspaper Edition 865, 3 May 2021

No 865 Monday 3rd - Sunday 9th May 2021

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

FIRE DESTROYS TWENTY HECTARES OF TORREVIEJA`S NATURAL PARK

By Andrew Atkinson fire devastated twenty hectares of the Natural Park of the Laguna de Torrevieja on the Costa Blanca on Saturday afternoon.

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It broke out just before 5pm very close to the Lagosal and las Torretas urbanisation

where it affected salt marsh and reed vegetation on the northeast shore of the Torrevieja lagoon.

As thick, black smoke billowed into the sky the high winds fanned the blaze toward the edge of the Natural Park area where many British ex-pats live. Gusts of 40 kilometres an hour made extinction

tasks difficult as the flames spread north towards El Limonar and La Siesta.

Residents took to the streets to offer their help, but were held back by the security forces as the authorities arrived onto the scene and took control.

Continued on Page 2

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Fire devastates Torrevieja Lagoon ADVERTISING SALES

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"All available means were used to try to put out the fire," said a spokesman from the Torrevieja Emergencies Department which included firefighters from Torrevieja, Almoradi and Elche as well as forest firefighters from Xixona, Guardamar and La Torre de

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les Maçanes Local Police, Civil Guard, Civil Protection, and a total of six seaplanes and helicopters were also active in fighting the raging fire that continued early into the night.

The Generalitat Disaster and Emergency group activated ‘Situation 1’ of the Forest Fire Emergency Plan, the highest level of emergency, "due to the danger of

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the fire posing a serious danger to a large number of houses," according to the Provincial Consortium.

The fire also affected much of the lagoon’s wildlife including many scattered avocet and stork nests.

At first glance, according to eyewitnesses, up to three different sources of the fire could be seen, which could be indicative of an intentional fire.

Images:@BomberosDipuALC and Proyecto Mastral

PROPERTY

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

STEVE'S CHARITY BRAVE THE SHAVE www.JustGiving.com/fundraising/STEPHEN-HIBBERD3

O

n a glorious May Day afternoon, in the company of well-wishers, I at long last set about Braving the Shave! It seemed a lifetime since a brainwave had struck me.

where my brainwave comes in. As my mother had succumbed to Alzheimer's some 2 years previously, I decided to not have a shave or haircut for a year.

Twas the start of lockdown, and like many other blokes, I took the opportunity to refrain from shaving.

Alas, covid restrictions meant that a year was extended to just short of 14 months, by which time I was literally tearing my hair out.

Haircuts were not an option, which is

Having secured the services of an experi-

Going

Going

enced hairdresser, Jackie Gould, plus facilities of The Club at Quesada, it was just the small matter of giving the event maximum publicity.

I can honestly say that I am overwhelmed at the amazing generosity of friends and family, both here on the Costa Blanca, and back in the UK. In addition to donations collected prior to and on the day, Andy and Tony at the Club arranged for a tombola to be held, from which proceeds will be given to the chosen charities.

GONE

Thanks to all those kind people who donated prizes and/or money, I have so far raised 2,085 euros for Alzheimer's society UK, and 300 euros for AFA Torrevieja.

These figures include 200 euros which I have donated from money saved by not having a haircut/shave for all those months.

Anyone wishing to donate to this worthwhile cause, can do so either by crediting my Alzheimer's just giving page above, or through me in person.

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International non-essential travel set to resume in May?

Quote: 'We’ll confirm in early May if non-essential international travel can resume on May 17' - UK transport secretary Grant Shapps Quote: 'PCR-test requirement first review of system in June'.

Quote: 'British tourists will be welcomed back to Spain from June as long as they have a digital vaccine certificate or a negative PCR test, Fernando Valdés, the country's secretary of state for tourism, said last week.

By Andrew Atkinson UK transport secretary, Grant Shapps, has revealed that details regarding the resumption of international travel rom UK on 17 May will be confirmed in the next week or so.

He said that the UK government may give two weeks’ notice of a country at risk of losing its ‘green’ category status under the trafficlight system for restarting international travel.

Shapps told MPs the government “would flag up, a couple of weeks in advance” if a country could change category, as he confirmed there would be no relaxation of the requirement for PCR tests on arrivals from ‘green’ destinations when travel resumes.

He said the government would review the PCR-test requirement at the first evaluation of the system in late June.

The government is expected to announce the destinations in the green, amber and red categories of the traffic-light system during w/c May 2-9, with a partial resumption of international travel due from May 17.

Shapps told MPs: “We’ll confirm in early May if non-essential international travel can resume on May 17.”

He said “the scientists will let us know whether PCR or lateral flow tests would be the appropriate test for arrivals.

“While we most likely need to start off with PCR tests, we have incorporated three check points, the first on June 28, at which we’ll look at this guidance.

“I’m very anxious to get the cost of these tests down. Although PCR tests are required from a medical point of view, we’ve been working with private laboratories, pharmacies and supermarkets to encourage companies with logistical expertise to enter the market and drive down the cost, and we’ve seen some success.

“There are nowproviders offering tests for £60 and one for £44.90.”

Asked to publish details of how destinations will be categorised, Shapps said: “We’ll have the Joint Biosecurity Centre look at four factors: the level of coronavirus in a country, the number of vaccines they have dispensed, the concern over any variant, and the quality of the data.

“I do appreciate concerns over when a country jumps from one category to another.

“We’re taking a couple of steps to try to help with that. One is a green watch list to be able to flag perhaps a couple of weeks in advance that we’re looking at a variation of interest.”

MPs are also concerned at the length of border queues at Heathrow and asked what is being done to cut these ahead of the travel restart.

Shapps said: “I remind you that people should not be travelling right now. Indeed, you cannot travel without an exceptional reason.

“Border Force is currently checking every single person who enters the country to make sure they have completed the pre-departure test and locator form. I’m afraid that inevitably creates queues.

“But as we move towards unlocking international travel, we will be addressing this issue, not least through the automation of the electronic e-gates for pre-departure forms.

“We’re working with Border Force on e-gates but it is not straightforward, not least because it requires both hardware and software.”

CRUISES Aviation and Maritime minister Robert Courts also appeared before MPs to answer questions about the restart of the cruise sector and the discussions taking place between the Department for Transport (DfT), the Foreign Office (FCDO) and devolved administrations.

“The DfT engages regularly with the FCDO, the devolved administrations and the cruise industry on the travel restart.

“The restart of domestic cruises has been confirmed and the Global Travel Taskforce advises that international cruises will restart alongside the wider restart of international travel," said Courts.

On Foreign Office advice on cruising, Courts said: “Travel advice is the responsibility of the FCDO.”

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NEW SPEED LIMITS TO BE INTRODUCED 11 MAY Although some weeks ago we published details of the changes being made to the Traffic Law by the Department of Transport, we thought a reminder, just a week before their introduction on 11 May, might be timely.

Until now, the generic speed limit in cities was set at 50 kilometres per hour. As of May 11, this figure will be reserved for high-capacity roads that have two or more lanes in each direction, such as the CV-905 in Torrevieja which saw the speed limit reduced not too long ago.

With the aim of eradicating traffic deaths in urban accidents and avoiding both accidents and their consequences, two new limitations will be introduced: 30 kilometres per hour and 20 kilometres per hour, depending on the type of street.

30 kilometres per hour This is the limit for roads that have a single lane in each direction, which is already being applied in many Spanish cities. It should be noted that the areas reserved for some vehicles or users (such as those for public transport) are not counted.

Third dose of Pfizer vaccine necessary in 12 months.

The co-founder of the German pharmaceutical BioNTech, Ugur Sahin, is confident that the vaccine developed by his laboratory and distributed, together with US partner Pfizer, will be "effective" against the Indian variant.

"Our method is based on the experiences gained against cancer. We experimented with many variants and, so far, we have achieved good results in all of them," Sahin said in a virtual meeting with representatives of the foreign media in Germany.

Sahin, who runs the company with his wife and scientist Özlem Türeci, warned that, the maximum effectiveness of his drug - 97% - is not reached until seven days after receiving the second dose adding that six months after having achieved that maximum immunity, through the second dose, it then begins to decline.

According to their current estimates, this would imply that, between the nine and twelve month points, a third dose will probably be necessary, in order to guarantee the continuance of maximum immunity.

Vaccines to everyone over 60 years by end in May The increase in the number of doses from Pfizer and the arrival of the Janssen vaccine are giving a new rhythm to the vaccination campaign against coronavirus, so much so that the President of the Generalitat, Ximo Puig, has said that the vaccination of all those over 60 should be completed by the end of May. However, neither Puig nor the Ministry of Health specified when they will begin to vaccinate people between 66 and 69 years old, almost 83,000 in the province of Alicante.

Currently data released by the Ministry suggests that one hundred percent of the first doses and 86.2% of the second have been given to those who are over 80 years of age.

Among the 70 to 79 age group there are 61.5% of those eligible have received one injection and 4% have had both. From 60 to 69 years are 34.5% who have received at least one dose and 4.2% who are fully protected.

20 kilometres per hour This new limit will be the one that regulates traffic on single-platform roads, that is, those streets in which the pavement and the road are unified and, therefore, pedestrians and vehicles share the same access, although preference is always to the pedestrian.

Sanctions The penalties will also change: driving over the speed limit will be considered a serious offence that will be punished with a fine of 100 euro without loss of points on the driving licence. Driving at excessive speed will result in higher fines and the loss of points.

Adapting limits Remember that town councils will have the power to reduce these new generic speeds if they consider it necessary and provided that they install the necessary signage.

The General Directorate of Traffic has been recommending these speed limits to municipalities for years but with little uptake they have now decided to introduce the measures themselves.

In Spain, in 2019 the number of deaths in town’s and cities increased by 6% and according to a study by the World Health Organization (WHO), the risk of dying in an accident involving a car being driven at 50kmh is at least five times greater than if the speed were 30 kmh.

Free orange juice for CEIP Playa Flamenca students The Councilor for Agriculture, Víctor Valverde, was at the CEIP Playa Flamenca, on the Orihuela costa on Wednesday where he was talking to first grade students about the benefits of orange consumption.

The day is part of the workshops and school activities organised by the Department of Agriculture, to promote the consumption of fruit and vegetables that were in short supply due to

the pandemic.

Valverde said that “the session was appreciated by students with many of them enjoying the taste of orange thanks to a fabulous juice that they were been able to make. They squeezed the oranges themselves and then we gave them all the juicer and a set of pencils with a slogan that says, "Eating well is healthy."

SAT ANIMAL RESCUE Filomena is a 9 month old Podenco, who is full of life. She needs a special family, as she is deaf.

If you are interested in this beauty please contact the kennels 966710047 or info@satanimalrescue.com

Orihuela council threatened with legal action over Burger Franchise

Alicante leaders of Vox ignore the community border closure

Among them were the spokesperson for the Alicante City Council, Mario Ortolá and the councillor in Sant Joan d´Alacant, Gema Aleman.

The deputy spokespersons in the Cortes, José María Llanos and Llanos Massó, as well as the deputy Miriam Turiel, also attended.

Several members of the political party, Vox, situated in Alicante, ignored the perimeter closure last weekend when they attended a political campaign event in the San Sebastián de los Reyes bullring in Madrid.

All of the politicians claimed that they attended the event because of work reasons but the Spanish press is reporting that none of them actively participated in the rally on April 24 and that they only attended as members of the public.

Consum to apply anti covid treatment to shopping cart handles Consum supermarket is spending more than 816,000 euros to apply a special anti-covid coating on the handles on it’s shopping trolleys The Cooperative will carry out the change to about 47,000 units in the coming months. In says that by July, it plans to have more than 91% of its trollies treated. A Further 14,300 baskets will be replaced.

In this way, the supermarket says that it wants to provide clients with greater security when shopping.

The chain also intends to join in the fight of plastic pollution in our seas by replacing it’s shopping baskets with baskets made from recycled polypropylene fishing nets and ropes that are transformed made with 25% recycled material from marine waste. In total, it will acquire 14,600 units that it will gradually incorporate into its stores.

At the weekly meeting of the Local Government Board last Tuesday the Deputy mayor, José Aix, announced the approval of a license for the construction of a Burger King Restaurant in the urban area of Orihuela.

The authorisation comes after the owners of the plot, located on Avenida de la Vega in the town centre, and the company hoping to instal the franchise, which has been renting the land since 2019, said that they would be taking legal action against the City Council, demanding the loss of profits of more than 6 million euros, due to the blocking of the construction license by the Department of Urbanism.

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THE RIGHT CAR INSURANCE BACK ON THE ROAD

BASIC INSURANCE

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Shop around for car insurance and find out what’s included.

s Spain eases restrictions due to Covid, many drivers are looking get their car back on the road.

But before turning the key we recommend you check your vehicle is good to go. Fluid levels may have dropped.

Check your oil, windscreen wash and coolant.

Before checking the brake fluid, drive your vehicle for a short period, braking several times to fill the system.

Top up with more brake fluid if the level is below the minimum.

If the battery is flat you may need to jump start your car.

Once running keep it turning over for 20 minutes.

Check tyre pressures and any abnormal wear and damage.

Take your vehicle for a drive and listen to the engine sound for any grinding, grumbling, whining or knocking.

Does your insurance company have a national network of repairers that can collect your vehicle, undertake repairs and then return the car to you on completion?

How does your No Claim discount work? If no claim is made against your policy, your renewal premium will be adjusted accordingly.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS Travel Assistance from Línea Directa provides extra protection when you need it most. On-the-spot emergency repairs will be carried out on the vehicle if it is immobilised. If you run out of fuel, then your vehicle will be towed to the nearest petrol station. In the event of loss or theft of the vehicle’s keys, then Línea Directa will do everything in its power to obtain duplicates and dispatch them as quickly as possible to you.

If a claim is made, then your No Claims discount may be reduced. Línea Directa’s team of customer service experts can guide you through all your queries and provide clear answers.

WHY LÍNEA DIRECTA? Línea Directa has been providing comprehensive car, motorbike and home insurance to British expatriates and residents in Spain for over 20 years.

Backed by a leading Spanish financial group Bankinter, with over 3 million customers nationwide. All services and documentation is in English.

Telephone their English-speaking customer service staff on 919 181 126 and get a competitive quote today.

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ORIHUELA’S NEW TOURIST ROUTES More than 450 people enjoyed these routes in the months of March and April On Wednesday morning, the Orihuela Councillor for Tourism, Mariola Rocamora, revealed the tourist routes that will be held during the month of May. During March and April, more than 450 people explored the history of the Oriolan city thanks to these guided tours, of which Rocamora said, "they have been a great success, which saw us having to put on more due to the large influx of requests."

A total of 16 tours were carried out.

In the month of May the public will be able to enjoy the most popular routes and demands and also a number of new visits, such as the Miguel Hernández route: his life and work, set in some of the poet’s the most symbolic places. Incorporated into the route is a recital of his poems.

Other novelties are the Andalusian Legacy route through the Orihuela Palm Grove where visitors will learn of the cultural heritage of the period and the La Modernista route, which will focus on the characteristic buildings of the city that were developed between the years 1880-

1917.

Due to sanitary measures, the groups are of a maximum of 20 people and prior registration is necessary, which can be done through the website https://www.orihuelaturistica.es/ , via WhatsApp at 673 836 385 or at the tourist office itself. On Orihuela Costa reservations can be made by email at: residents@orihuela.es or by calling Tel. 966 076 100 - Ext 4507 The routes are free and all have official guides.

PROGRAMME FOR MAY

SUNDAY 9, The Orihuela City Mill, 10am and 10.15 am. Meet at the Tourist Information Centre.

FRIDAY 14,. Orihuela Legends. 7:00 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. Meet at the Tourist Information Centre.

SATURDAY 15,, Andalusian Legacy 11:00 and 11:15 am. Meet at the El Palmeral Interpretation Centre.

SUNDAY 16, Nordic walking around the historic water wheels, the twin Norias 9:30 am. Meet at the Tourist Information Centre.

FRIDAY 21, LA MODERNISTA 7:00 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.

SATURDAY 1, Orihuela Palm Grove 10am to 12 noon. Meet at the El Palmeral Interpretation Centre.

SATURDAY 22, Reflections of a natural environment 10:00 and 12:00 hrs. Meet at the El Palmeral Interpretation Centre.

SATURDAY 1, Orihuela Palaces 7 p.m., 7:15 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Meet at the Tourist Information Centre.

SATURDAY 22, Orihuela Palaces 7:00 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. Meet at the Tourist Information Centre.

FRIDAY 7, Orihuela Palaces 7:00 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. Meet at the Tourist Information Centre.

SATURDAY 29, Orihuela Palm Grove 10am to 12 noon. Meet at the El Palmeral Interpretation Centre.

SATURDAY 8, The biodiversity of the Palm Grove. 10 am and 12 noon. Meet at the El Palmeral Interpretation Centre.

SATURDAY 29, Miguel Hernández: His life and work 7:00 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.

Meet at the Miguel Hernández museum.

ORIHUELA MUNICIPAL CULTURAL ACTIVITIES WEEK COMMENCING 3 MAY Venues in Orihuela and on the Orihuela Costa

Mariola Rocamora, Orihuela Councillor for Tourism

“Idiot. Choosing your words”, with Alex O´Dogherty.

Monologue. Teatro Circo Saturday 15 May at 8pm.

“Take me to heaven”, by Nacho A. Llorente, with Lolita Flores and Luis Mottola.

LITERATURE Through to 27 June - Literature Exhibition “María Zambrano. La aurora del pensamiento”. (The dawn of thought). Exhibition Rooms Miguel Hernández. Rincón Hernandiano.

5 May Wednesday - 7.15pm - Poetry Encounters with Poetry - Juana J. Marín Saura.

Biblioteca Pública Municipal María Moliner. Orihuela.

11 May – 7.30pm - Literature

ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN IN ORIHUELA Saturday, May 8 - ‘Musical Graphics' Musical products will be made from plastic and cardboard waste, demonstrating the commitment to reducing pollution.

10am in the courtyard of the Orihuela Youth House Saturday May 15 - The "Home Garden" Learn how to design a small garden, ideal for a balcony.

10am in the courtyard of the Orihuela Youth House

Presentation of the book “Ramón Sijé.

From journalism to essay of José Antonio Sáez Fernández.

12 May – 7.15pm - Poetry

ACTIVITIES FOR ENGLISH SPEAKING CHILDREN ORIHUELA COSTA (Venue: Centro Cívico, Alameda Del Mar)

Encounters with Poetry. Julio Calvet Botella.

Tuesday 4 May, 6pm. Stories and Workshop.

Biblioteca Pública Municipal María Moliner. Orihuela.

Knock, Knock. Who's There?, Demetrio Aldeguer Aldeguer

19 May – 7.30pm - Journalism

Thursday 6 May, 6pm Workshop. Zine Making.

Prsentation of the digitalised magazine ‘Empiurema’ (1985/2015).

Self-Edit Workshop (magazine, fanzine). Susana Delgado

Biblioteca Pública Municipal María Moliner. Orihuela.

Stories for two people. Caoz (Carlos Ortiz) and Romina Benito

MUSIC AND THEATRE

Thursday 13 May, 6pm. Workshop.

Friday 7 May at 9.30pm

A day in history - Events and Animation

Biblioteca Pública Municipal María Moliner.

Tuesday 11 May, 6pm. Storytelling.

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A Lesson in Diplomacy …

C

ollins English Dictionary defines diplomacy as ‘the skill of being careful to say or do things which will not offend people’. I would carry the definition of diplomacy further than Collins and say that it includes the art of getting others to do things they might not otherwise have done.

I am not a good diplomat, but I truly admire this quality in others.

The following example is one I have told to many; but it always worth repeating – if only for its simplicity of execution.

My friend, Seamus Fagan, and I travelled to China for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. It turned out to be one of those trips of a lifetime. The fact that Ireland had three Mullingar Olympians participating; that one of them was Seamus’s nephew, Martin, as well as John Joe Nevin and John Joe ‘Johnny’ Joyce, was a source of great pride and joy.

That there were so few Irish out there meant we were ‘all in it together’ for everything that went on.

For example, I couldn’t believe that I was just standing there, when a door opened and I became the first person to talk to Paddy Barnes when he exited with his bronze medal. I got daily scoops and photos, which I dispatched every night to ‘The Westmeath Examiner’.

The Chinese authorities knew that the Olympics was an opportunity to showcase Beijing at its best – and they surely did that. We were treated like royalty by all the people – whatever their rank. Our hosts were very conscious that the world’s press was watching.

After being checked in to our lovely hotel, two porters proceeded to take us to our adjoining rooms. This turned out not to be to be the most auspicious start to our two week! The rooms were downstairs in the basement building. Don’t get me wrong … richly carpeted and beautifully furnished … but no daylight and no window you could open – something I always insist upon. There was the slightest hint of mustiness as well.

Soon thereafter, we both went to reception and asked if we could change our rooms. Gracious, polite, apologetic – but not a chance. I also told them that I needed to send reports home and that my lap-

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top wasn’t working downstairs. A technician was down with a booster and had that problem sorted within 15 minutes. Everything, including this, was carefully noted by reception I said to Fagan: ‘Forget about the rooms, or it will take some of the gloss off this trip. We are only sleeping here. Seamus nodded … sort of!

Everything on this roller-coaster was just so exciting and that night, next day, and the following night passed in a glorious twirl. I left O’Shea’s Pub before Seamus most nights, so I could file my piece back to the ‘Examiner’.

This level of Internet engagement was new to me – and I marvelled that it could be done.

Mind you, the Googling was restricted when you went to look up certain things.

On the second morning I met Seamus in the lobby and we headed for breakfast. After satisfying appetites and consuming copious coffees, my friend announced; ‘we are moving … come with me!’

This is the story of how that happened When Seamus came in late the night before, he put charm and soft talk on the lovely receptionist. (I cannot tell a lie, Eileen!) ‘And do you have any spare rooms?’ he asked. ‘Yes, the law states we always have to keep two rooms empty for ‘special requirement’.

‘We have two rooms we don’t like – so is there any chance you can you give us the two you are holding and keep our two for special requirements?’ ‘I do not have authority, but I don’t see why not but you will have to ask my senior colleague in the morning.’

Seamus was first man at the desk when the senior receptionist came on duty. He stated his case – just as charmingly! ‘No, I am so sorry; this is not possible: Every guest has to keep the room that is assigned to them at the booking.’ More bowing and charm – but the lady wasn’t for turning.

This is the bit you were waiting for ….

‘That’s alright … I understand … don’t worry about it … rules are rules … no problem.’ ‘I don’t mind at all – it’s the other fellow. My head is spinning with his complaints of where he has to work and sleep since we came to Beijing. You remember him … the nuisance you had to get his Internet working so he can send daily dispatches

to his newspaper; the journalist’ “THE WHAT!!?”

‘We are moving’, he said … Two penthouse suites. Glass walls with breath-taking view of the city. Bowl of fruit and a bottle of wine each. (He drank my bottle too, Eileen!)

That’s diplomacy working at its best. Only thing I can’t understand is how come that Fagan was no diplomat on the hurling field or in the squash court!?

DON’T FORGET Tact is the art of removing the stinger from the bee and not getting stung.

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.

GARDEN FELIX......Sunflowers turn their head to follow the movement of the sun S

unflowers are heliotropic, which means that they turn their flower heads to follow the movement of the sun across the sky, east to west, then returns at night to face the east, ready again for the morning sun!

The sunflower is one of the best-loved flowers, that also makes an excellent cut flower.

Most sunflower varieties have yellow flowers, but they can also grow in rusty red, green, golden and white.

Sow sunflower seeds every couple of weeks, to give a constant supply of sunflowers throughout summer.

The largest sunflower varieties grow to over 16 feet in height, with smaller varieties that have been developed for small spaces and containers, rarely growing taller than a foot.

The flower heads can reach over a foot in diameter, within the large-seeded varieties.

Sow the seeds in pots, from April to May, and plant out from June in a sunny, sheltered spot in good soil. Add plenty of wellrotted manure or garden compost, before planting.

Protect the young plants from slugs and snails and water your sunflowers regularly.

Feed weekly, to encourage growth. Stake them if they’re in an exposed position.

Don’t allow plants to dry out, as very tall varieties will have a job to recover. After flowering, sunflower heads develop masses of sunflower seeds. Leave the faded flower head intact, so the birds can feast on seeds.

Once the birds have had their fill, take any remaining seeds and leave them to dry for a few days, before storing in a dry spot.

Sow the following year.

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events and activities in which both entities collaborate throughout the year.

Orihuela Councillor blamed for flooding of coastal path

Suicide prevention and the fight against stigmas in mental health unite us on this path and we want to congratulate PIETA HOUSE for the work they carry out, not only on the Costa Blanca but throughout the world."

Said to be the suggestion of Orihuela’s Councillor for Infrastructure, Angel Noguera, many of the drainage channels in the Aguamarina Park were recently blocked with stones and sandbags.

Come and join the DIL Team on Saturday May 8th at La Zenia Beach Given current restrictions in place, the annual Darkness Into Light walk in Costa Blanca has been postponed again this year.

The purpose of the exercise was to stop the park topsoil washing away into the gutters every time it rains. This has been a problem in the park since it reopened, following partial refurbishment last year.

However, the Darkness Into Light team will be present from 7:00am on Saturday May 8th at La Zenia beach. The team invites anyone who would like to join us as we stand (socially distanced in yellow T-shirts) to watch the sun rise together.

As rainwater channels opened up in the floods, the downpours took away with them large quantities of the topsoil, a covering of finely crushed sandstone, requiring the surfaces to be reinstated by council staff.

For more information about DIL 2021, visit https://www.darknessintolight.ie/about or

Amusingly, a post on the AVOCA Facebook page following the most recent episode of wet weather on Monday morning, paraphrased

Brightness and Hope for Darkness and Light Two local groups working together to address mental health issues and suicide prevention awareness campaigns in Costa Blanca The Costa Blanca Darkness Into Light team has reunited with Partner Charity, ADIEM SENTIT FUNDACION for the first time since the pandemic.

The Darkness Into Light team presented ADIEM with a donation from fundraising activities that took place before the pandemic, as well as meeting the ADIEM team to discuss Mental Health awareness and campaigns once restrictions are lifted.

Luis Gonzalez from ADIEM SENTIT FUNDACION commented "we want to thank PIETA HOUSE and DIL Costa Blanca once again for the opportunity to be a collaborating entity on the Costa Blanca and to raise funds, which will help reaching the objectives of our foundation and help users and their families in their needs.

ADIEM is proud to be a collaborating entity of PIETA HOUSE, not only in the Darkness into Light annual event, but also in the rest of the

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www.facebook.com/DILCostaBlanca. For ADIEM SENTIT FUNDACION, visit http://adiem.org/

Teacher infections stabilise while those among students show slight increase The vaccination of teachers seems to be having an effect in the classrooms, according to the data on the evolution of the pandemic provided by the Ministry of Education.

Information provided for the last week shows that in the

PAGE 11

Woody Allen, with a quote that was not at all complimentary to Mr Noguera.

With the channels filled by sandbags the water had nowhere to drain, and as such, while the topsoil still drained away, the Aguamarina walkway was flooded with 9 inches of water.

The Facebook post ended with the following plea from the AVOCA Association, “Ángel Manuel Noguera García, please, pay attention to those who understand, leave the openings for drainage of the wall as they were and carry out the small work of channelling the rainwater necessary to solve this problem.”

Province’s schools and institutes the positive cases amongst teachers number a dozen, while the infections among the students have risen slightly to about one hundred, 26 more than the previous seven days.

Among the 297,281 students enrolled in school, only 0.03% were infected, 97 students compared to 71 the previous week.

As for teachers, of the 27,694

teachers in the province, active cases account for 0.04%, 12 teachers.

In the Community as a whole, 28 classrooms in 19 schools have been confined, 2 groups in 2 schools have been deconfined and 3 groups of students remain isolated from the previous week, so that the total of confined classrooms last Monday was 31 classrooms in 22 educational centres.

PAGE 12

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Blanca via Facebook. A lot of people have been amazing throughout my career of which I give thanks to, and if you’re reading this, you’ll know who you are.

Here, I perform as a solo artist. My shows vary according to the venues. If the venue wants Country and Irish, or Soul and Motown then so be it as I love it all.

My overall preference would be Classic Rock which is a dream to perform. If I had one duet wish, I would love to perform with Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie Nicks.

SANDY FITZ... ime to highlight another one of the amazing performers here on the Costa Blanca and this week I asked Sandy Fitz to tell me a little bit about herself….

T I’

m originally from Crumlin, Dublin where I had an amazing childhood. I met Thin Lizzy’s Phil Lynott in the T.V Club. I was there watching Christy Moore and Moving Hearts.

Phil was at the bar so I went up to him, and said “How’s it going?” like I knew him all of my life.

After a while I moved to Rathmines where I attended The Royal Academy Of Music. There, I reached Grade 5 which qualified me to teach.

I met some great musicians which led to my involvement with bands, a Fleetwood Mac tribute being my favourite.

When karaoke became popular and was a great payer, I took that road and again met some wonderful people, including 2fm’s Gerry Ryan.

With Gerry and The X Factor Crew, I helped to arrange the show’s contestants. Gerry introduced me to a friend of a friend in regards to performing as a backing singer with A Woman’s Heart tour

featuring Mary Black.

I became pregnant so I went on to become a private tutor.

I resumed work shortly after having my daughter Mel, and when I was performing at The Bridge House Hotel, I met the producer of Midland’s 103 Radio who complimented me on my talking voice and offered me a position as a presenter.

At this point, I had moved to Portarlington Co. Laois. I stayed there for 10 years and made some lifelong friends.

From there is where I made the big move to Spain. I had only planned to stay here for 1 year and here I still am, 10 year later. I feel settled on the Costa Blanca.

I never say never though! I do miss Ireland and when flights and tourism resumes, I will get home to see my loved ones and enjoy when they can come to visit me.

I have enjoyed singing on The Live Lounge Costa

I take time for reflection and make my road a stressless path ahead and my future looks bright. I no longer drink alcohol, I’m a non-smoker and I share my life with my family and friends, not forgetting my rescue dog Roxy. I love her.

You can find Sandy performing at Horrigan’s Irish Bar & McCafferty’s Irish Bar both in Cabo Roig, The Ha’penny Bridge Bar in Punta Prima, Nina’s Bistro in Mil Palmeras, Danny’s bar in Campoverde, or check out Sandy’s Live Shows on her Facebook page Sandy Fitz.

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Check out Sandy’s Live Shows on her Facebook page Sandy Fitz.

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S

D L O

PAGE 13

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 864

ACROSS 6.

Seer (7)

7.

Automaton (5)

9.

Fret (5)

10.

Restrict (7)

12.

Expostulate (11)

14.

Satisfaction (11)

18.

Unfamiliar (7)

19.

Divest (5)

21.

Stratum (5)

22.

Acquit (7)

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 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

8.

11.

13.

15.

16.

17.

20.

Stream (5) Thin (6) Wager (3) Chest (6) Signify (7) Eat (7) Invention (7) Depict (7) Journey (6) Idea (6) Filter (5) Recede (3)

QUICK ACROSS: 1 Inter; 4 Confess; 8 Anxious; 9 Moist; 10 Pick; 11 Comedown; 13 Heed; 14 Fete; 16 Rigidity; 17 Hang; 20 Alert; 21 Imagine; 22 Elevate; 23 Treat.

DOWN: 1 Inappropriate; 2 Toxic; 3 Room; 4 Custom; 5 Numbered; 6 Episode; 7 Sit in judgment; 12 Vendetta; 13 Hygiene; 15 Strike; 18 Alike; 19 Last.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Bored; 4 Decided; 8 Lumbago; 9 Throb; 10 Sate; 11 Sporadic; 13 Sump; 14 Aces; 16 Epistles; 17 Isle; 20 Caddy; 21 Torment; 22 Nightie; 23 Baker.

DOWN: 1 Belisha beacon; 2 Remit; 3 Dear; 4 Droops; 5 Cataract; 6 Derides; 7 Debt collector; 12 Amethyst; 13 Shindig; 15 Gentle; 18 Sleek; 19 Drab.

ACROSS 6.

This horse presumably will never run free (7)

7.

This bird may have a voracious appetite (5)

9.

Yearn to curtail 2 (5)

10. Obviously 150 appear before their time (7) 12. Actively supporting opponents to left and right? (2,4,5) 14. Remark about some in division (11) 18. Conditions in the orchestra? (7) 19. Takes cooked meat (5) 21. How and when soldiers move? (5) 22. Put the bedclothes back on to get better? (7)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. Which London born actor hosted the Academy Awards a record 18 times?

2. The logogram '&', known as the Ampersand, is a contraction of which words?

3. Which cocktail's name translated means 'pearl'? a. Caipirinha b.

Martini c. Julep d. Margarita 4. Based on the total number of tourists, what were the 4 most visited countries in the world in 2019?

5. John 'the cat' Robie was the debonair character in which popular film?

6. Since the Open era in tennis, which 5 men have reached the singles final of the US Open the most times?

7. According to the Art Loss Register works from which artist is most stolen?

8. Before the break-up of the former Soviet Union only two countries bordered the Caspian Sea. Now there are five. Can you name them?

9. Which part of India was occupied by the Japanese in WW II? 10. The following words are from songs with the word 'Sugar' in the title.

Name the song? a. Gotta get my candy free, b. Drums beating cold English blood runs hot, c. A robin feathering his nest has very little time to rest, d. Like the summer sunshine pour your sweetness over me.

11. The Komodo National Park is famous for its Komodo Dragons. In which country is this park found?

DOWN 1. Enchantment brings injury to 100 (5) 2. Cowardly clan leader imposed on 7 (6) 3 and 20Dn. Blush on seeing Communist study (6) 4. As far as an African journey can be (6) 5. Commercial traveller wasn't truthful when he answered (7) 8. Medieval study of lacy hem (7) 11. Bravery shown by many as old as we are (7) 13. He has lines to deliver, of course (7) 15. Royal person not initially in charge (6) 16. Such people going by car would be a bloomer (6) 17. Pay carries on (5) 20. See 3 Down.

( A n s we r s o n p a g e 2 3 ) 12. In which three Quentin Tarantino films has English actor Tim Roth played a role?

13. What was a no. 1 hit in 9 countries for orange juice and champagne?

14. In which city is each of the following landmarks found? a. Doge's Palace, b. Sugarloaf Mountain, c. Taj Mahal, d. Atomium, e. Hagia Sophia.

15. With the exception of a small incomplete section known as the Darien Gap, which road that extends more than 15,000 miles is the longest in the world? (According to Guinness) 16. Who released the following No 1 albums in the UK in 1970? a. Get yer ya ya's out, b. Atom Heart Mother, c. Cosmo's Factory, d. A Question of Balance 17. What was the name of the Burmese UN Secretary General between 1962 and 1971?

18. The following are the 1st lines of famous poems. Name the poet? a.

Tyger Tyger! burning bright. b. Do not go gentle into the good night. c. How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. d. Half a league, half a league.

19. Which mondegreen (the misinterpretation or mishearing of a phrase) became one of the earliest psychedelic hit songs in 1968?

20. What did Elvis never give at a concert?

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There are numbers of herbs that can help calm down and deal with whatever is stressing you - skullcap, chamomile, passionflower, lemon balm, limeflower and lavender among them.

You'll find most of these used in ready-blended herbal teas aimed at particular ailments, such as stress or anxiety.

Drink plenty of natural calmers.

SCRATCHING THE ITCH Eczema claims growing numbers of victims every year in the Western world.

But You don't have to be one of them.

L

et's get one thing straight, though: your cure is unlikely to come from conventional medicine. The steroid creams your doctor prescribes may ease the agony in the short term.

Long term, they'll thin and damage the skin.

Antihistamine pills may damp down the itching, but they often come with a price tag: side effects. Herbalists aim to get to the root of the problem, and then use herbs as effective treatment, both inside and skin-side. And, since sorting out and controlling eczema is a job for the long haul, it's encouraging to have a professional herbalist's advice and support along the way.

'When patients come in with really bad inflamed eczema,' says herbalist Dee Atkinson. 'the first thing to do is to calm it down, so I prescribe calming herbs such as chamomile, oats or nettle, either in tea or tincture form.

You can buy some herbs in juiced form, which is yet another way to take them.

Taking the itch out of Eczema...

Most of my patients are on steroid creams when they first come to see me. I give them some starflower cream, and encourage them to mix it with their steroid cream: put a blob of each in the palm of their hand, and blend them before applying.

One immediate practical step you can take is to cut down on caffeine and alcohol, and drink plenty of these natural calmers.

Many cases of eczema come from inside. Your body could be reacting to chemicals in your environment and taking it out - literally - on your skin. Small babies often develop eczema because they're reacting to the cows' milk in their formula.

Sue Eldin, a medical herbalist working within a conventional medical practice in London, fingers another suspect: chemical additives.

With four to ten year olds, she notes, a lot of the foods, drinks and snacks aimed at this young market, are highly coloured and highly flavoured. 'In all cases, when these foods are replaced with realistic alternatives, the severity of the eczema decreases.' To identify other triggers, Sue gets her patients to turn detective. For a week they keep a double-entry food diary.

On one side they note each day's intake of any food, drink or drug, and the time it was consumed; on the opposite page, they record flare-ups or aggravations, with a note of the time. Matching flareups to a specific food or drink is often straightforward, and patients avoid it thereafter.

Baby - and adult - skin can also be acutely sensitive to the dozens of dodgy chemicals in laundry products, bathroom and skin care toiletries. Replace them with the 'green products now available, based on plants and natural oils, and you may find your skin

Common ingredients....

Dandelion, burdock, nettle, red-clover

responds with a delightful improvement.

Four common weeds crop up all the time in herbal prescriptions for eczema: dandelion, burdock, nettle and red clover.

Dandelion nourishes the liver to help boost excretion of wastes: eat the peppery young leaves in salads or stews.

Burdock a great blood-cleanser, is a traditional remedy for a whole slew of skin problems, calming inflammation and protecting the skin from bacterial infection.

Mineral-rich nettles and red clover are reliable blood cleansers too, and nettles also supply natural antihistamines, to help quell the allergic reactions which may be triggering your eczema.

Why all this fuss about cleansing? Because it's reckoned that as much as a quarter of the body's wastes are excreted through the skin.

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

A cream made from marigold flowers, also known as calendula cream, can be a wonderful ally. Apply It freely to all the reddened, itchy bits. and soothe it well In; It helps pain and calms Inflammation. Since It also antIfungal and antibacterial, it can also protect your skin against the secondary Infections so easily set up In scratched or weepy skin.

Herbalist Sue Odin finds it a highly successful treatment. ’The more frequently It Is applied and the better It Is rubbed Into the skin, the greater the Improvement’ she says.

So herbalists will prescribe herbs that help along the whole cleansing process to give your skin a break.

You can take regular doses of any of these four herbs in the form of a tincture. Follow the manufacturer's directions for dosage and persevere for at least a month.

Then gradually reduce the amount of steroid cream they are using.

Starflower cream - alternatively called borage cream - really takes the itch out of eczema.'

Stress is a huge factor in eczema: a friend's face once broke out literally as she was given news of her daughter's serious illness, she told me later.

NEXT WEEK - PIMPLED YOUTH

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PAGE 17

POETS Fraudulent Behaviour I

would expect, if one is twenty years old, that the year two thousand would seem like a long time ago, in fact a lifetime. Then others on the other end of the span of years, are wondering what happened to those two decades.

It is remarkable how, although in use for many years, within that timeframe the internet and digital working has expanded and now covers most possessions and equipment in our daily lives, with the mobile phone in your pocket controlling many of those functions I don’t think many people would disagree when I say there are many benefits to working with a computer, but are there too many which leave our living standards open to fraud?

It was less than a year ago when the Marks and Spencer Bank was advertising and looking for new customers to open a current account.

Just recently in a total reversal of that requirement they have announced that, as from August this year, they are closing all their current accounts. Why? Do they know something, and have they come to the conclusion the cyber waves are not secure, that they cannot be made to be safe and the losses are too deep?

So, what happens next? Will it become too difficult to trade on the internet, as there will be many checks to be sure the transaction is not one of deceit.

Perhaps the banks will revert to previous workings and start rushing around replacing the ATM machine they have recently removed.

Credit card machines will no longer exist in store tills and we will have to pay in cash. It will become a chore once a week sitting around a table writing out cheques to pay your way, folding them up and sliding them into an envelope with a postage stamp on it, and pushing it into a letterbox on the way to work the next morning.

What a bonanza for the Post Office though, and their shares will soar.

Of course, it will be a steep learning curve for the twenty-year-olds, as they are taught to do things paper wise instead of digitally.

Whilst in innocence we use our digital devices to move on with our needs, at the same time we are broadcasting to the world who we are, what we are, and also where we are!

As the old man walked on the beach, He saw a vision ahead.

It was a young woman rushing about, Throwing something over her head.

As he approached, he asked of her “exactly what do I see?

You’re throwing something into the water.

It looks very odd to me” “Sir” she said, “it’s starfish I throw, They need back in the water quick.

The tide’s going out, they’ll all dry up, And then get deathly sick”

She stared right back, threw another one in, Said “I may not reach everyone, But if I help out some, I’ve done my bit, I’ve especially helped this one”

It must have been a wonderful opportunity with the World wide web, to be able to spread their fraudulent activities. Instead of the costly exercise of sending begging or deliberate offers of deception in the post, they could now do it in comfort and for free, and as many as they can cram into a day, the only cost running the computer system.

We maybe can’t help everyone, We can’t always do what’s best.

But help who you can, there’s always one.

Hopefully someone helps the rest.

Over time they have devised many different conspiracies and cheating ways to remove money from purses and bank accounts.

By Carolynn Barclay

Facebook.com/percy chattey - All Percy’s books and writings are available on Amazon and Kindle

Elliot Wright’s restaurant gutted by fire ormer TOWIE star, Elliot Wright, woke up on Monday morning to find that his Costa del Sol restaurant, Olivia's, had been gutted by fire, following a mysterious blaze, that saw three fire engines rushed to the scene at 5.30 am. along with police and paramedics.

F

premises at the time.

Elliot, who also owns Eduardo’s Restaurant in Villamartin, was quickly on the scene, then taking to Instagram to confirm news prior to it breaking in the press.

A spokesman said that at this stage it is far too early to tell anything other than the fact that the blaze first took hold in the restaurant entrance.

According to the sources, the flames spread very quickly throughout a large part of the building.

Fortunately, however, there was no one on the

Starfish

He looked at her and with a grin, And a surreptitious smile, Said “there are hundreds of them, it’ll make no difference.

You’ll be doing this for a while”

When the internet was first formed and started to go worldwide, for the people in the dark domain, Nigeria comes to mind, but there must be many others, men and women were ensconced in their offices, perhaps only a little hut in the middle of nowhere, but nevertheless, pounding key boards trying to get into other people’s pass words, or even to bypass them to see how much money they could transfer to some hidden off shore bank account, perhaps on a boat?

In my opinion I do not think the banks are coping. As soon as they get in front with one fraudulent stratagem then another, usually a much more devious and complicated system replaces it.

CORNER

It took approximately two hours before a team of Mijas firefighters was able to bring the fire under control following which officers from the Guardia Civil moved in as they began to investigate the cause.

The fire comes just weeks after Elliott lost his father Eddie Wright, who died at the age of 66 after a 3 month battle with Covid.

In his early morning post on Instagram Elliot

wrote “'So I will get this out there as no doubt this news will spread fast... unfortunately it’s with regret that @olivias_la_cala had a fire in the early hours of this morning... it’s too soon to say why, all that matters is it has. More importantly in life you get tested.. it’s been a very testing couple of years.. especially recently.. but if you know me, you know I will rise from this.. I will rebuild it bigger and better then before.. I will never be beaten.”

If you would like to see your poem featured in this column send to: office@theleader.info

Elliot admitted that the blaze couldn’t have come at a worse time.

PAGE 18

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International Christian Assembly, Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, Torrevieja Evangelical non-denominational church. Sunday service 11a.m.; Sunday school; Prayer meetings; craft and 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

CHURCHES AND SERVICES La Siesta Evangelical Church hold services each Sunday.

Our 11.15am Services are held every 2nd and 4th Sunday in the month (and on the 5th Sunday, if this applies.) On the 1st and 3rd Sunday’s our Services are at 9.30 am. Our choir sings at our 11.15 am Services and there is also a Sunday School, Stepping Stones, on these Sundays. 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 Montesinos. We are a lively, friendly church and look forward to meeting you. (Covid19 aware) 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

The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2019 Ford Ecosport petrol which is on Special Offer priced at just 18,500 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

SOCIAL AND CLUBS The Royal British Legion Orihuela Costa and District Branch has put future meetings on hold because of the current Covid situation in accordance with advice receiived from the Generalitat.

There are no further meetings planned at this time. Call Jean for info on: 630 28 08 99.

The Royal British Legion, Torrevieja Branch - Will meet at the Oasis, formerly the Casa Ventura, San Luis. Details will be announced when it reopens.

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New members are always welcome. You do not have to be ex-services. For more info please contact:gill.burden20@gmail.com 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 Almoradi Meal Club. If do you fancy a meal out and meeting new friends, come and join our English speaking club. We have twice monthly meals at various restaurants in and around Almoradi. For info go to FaceBook or email: davedanie@gmail.com.

Badminton in Pilar de la

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Horadada. Mon, Tues, Wed and Thurs. 10-12.30 pm.

Call John on 634 658 506 ...currently postponed 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 association supports the welfare needs of ex-members of the RAF and their dependents.

Due to ongoing covid-19 restrictions we cannot hold General Meetings at the moment. In normal times we provide a social hub for members and hold lunches every month. To fund Welfare we raise money through the Wings Appeal. To find out more contact Chairman Tony: tony.elaine.cuenta@gmail.com For Welfare contact Andy on 0034 711 00 86 84. For general information on RAFA visit www.rafa.org.uk.

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 email: 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

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The Orihuela Costa Drop In Centre in C/Cipres, Lomas de Cabo Roig, is currently closed.

We will reopen as soon as we are able when we can offer you a full range of activities Info at: oc.communitycare @gmail.com

PERSONAL Sexy, elegant, mature, pretty, and naughty lady will visit you at home or in a hotel.

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Email me at the address: dialadatemate@yahoo.com Transvestite Diana, blonde, new to Torrevieja. Great figure big breasts. Active and passive.well endowed. By appointment. Playa los locos.

651 363 396 Sexy, elegant Spanish lady.

Playa Flamenca. Punta Prima.

Private house. Erotic massage.

All services. From €40. Call Ana on 657 603 495. Speaks English.

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Call 634 300 074 Torrevieja blonde lady, 59 years, gives erotic massage, happy ending, speaks English, 604 382 799 Torrevieja, Valentini, Brazilian lady, 35. Erotic massage with complete satisfaction. Good time guaranteed. 688 340 708

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PAGE 19

JAVEA - A JEWEL IN THE COSTA BLANCA Less than 2 hours north (90 minutes on the motorway and 30 minutes going through small villages on scenic roads), you arrive at the lovely Village of Javea, or Xabia as it is known in Valenciano.

BY LINDA BENTLEY

Javea is a historic fishing village and is split into three very different areas. The old Historic Centre, The Port (Duanes de la Mar) and Playa del Arenal, the beach area.

Javea has also been blessed with spectacular scenery, framed by the Capes of Cabo de San Antonio and Cabo de La Nao.

I thought the walk to the sea would be short, but it wasn’t it is a 25 minute walk - so be aware.

As you wander around these delightful streets you come upon the majestic Fortress Church of San Bartolome, built out of the local Tosca sandstone in a gothic Elizabethan style. It is huge for this small village.

It is quite plain except for the high doorway reached by steps, with some intricate, ornate work around it. It was built around the 15th century, and inside it is so ornate and just beautiful. To the side of the Church is another beautiful building which houses the indoor market where you can buy fresh produce.

A former 17th century Palace House of Antonio Banuls is now the Soler Blasco Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum. The Museum shows objects related to the history of Javea, the Neolithic drawings found in a cave, samples of Roman and medieval ceramics, and the famous treasure of Xabia, which is made up of gold and silver finely worked pieces of jewellery, that dates back to the 4th and 7th centuries. There is so much more to see in this beautifully housed museum. After visiting maybe find a little café in one of the quaint, narrow streets and enjoy sitting outside with a coffee.

Javea’s quaint cobbled streets I stayed in the Historical Centre with its cobbled streets, pretty whitewashed houses, and others built in the local Tosca sandstone in typical Spanish narrow streets that I love.

I stayed in Hotel Triskel which is tucked in one of the narrow streets, it only had eight rooms all with different themes done in an old traditional style, with so many details even down to the light switches.

At the Port (Duanes de la Mar), you can sit on the sea front and watch the fishing boats arrive back with their catch of the day. There are a few different Restaurants offering sea food, Spanish and Sushi to name but a few. There are a few hotels and at least two have sky bars where you can enjoy a romantic meal or cocktail and soak up the lights and stars of the evening.

Here amongst the narrow streets is the Church The Iglesia de la Mare de la Deude Loreto, built in 1967 and is said to be an outstanding example

PODENCOS MAKE YOU SMILE

By Nola the Untrainable The e-book titled PODENCOS MAKE YOU SMILE by Nola the Untrainable, is a light-hearted look at ex-pat life on the Costa Blanca as seen through the eyes of a Podenco dog.

The couple enjoying life in the sun help with a dog charity. Their comfy life changes dramatically when they are enticed into taking a rescue in.

Events to do with fund raising, rescue and annual holidays during the winter months are seen through the ‘too clever for her own good’ dog’s eyes.

Hankies are recommended for the tears of laughter and sorrow.

Royalties until the end of July will be split between small dog rescues on the Costa Blanca and Kent.

You can find it available on Amazon kindle by inputting the title in the search box.

The Port (Duanes de la Mar) of Avent Garde architecture. For me though this Avent Garde building is so out of place and looks so totally wrong.

Jutting out on the headland is the luxury Parador Hotel with rooms having spectacular views over the bay and out to sea.

It is in the middle of quaint, narrow streets with whitewashed medieval houses and there it is, squashed in, and does not blend with its beautiful surroundings. These are just my thoughts and others could love it, as it is so different.

If you like exploring there are many small coves and beaches to discover in the area.

There is a walkway out to sea that divides the port area. From here you can look back on the village and the surrounding scenery. The Marina with the backdrop of Cape of San Otoni, the fishing village and the sweeping bay that leads around to Playa del Arenal, its stunning.

Away from the coast there are many scenic walks, or you could rent a bike and cycle the numerous routes which lead to special interest points of natural and cultural wealth. At the Park Natural Montgo you can visit the 11 windmills that are built on the hillside. Another nature area is the Park Forestal Granadella.

PLAYA DE ARENAL The beach here is a sweeping bay with clear crystal waters, a wide beach backing on to a promenade that sweeps round the bay, lined with cafes and restaurants. What I like most is that each restaurant is so bespoke. So totally different from each other offering all different types of cuisine.

All beautifully done out ranging from pretty chic, boho, minimalistic and so many to choose from.

Also, there are boutiques for the ladies and of course wherever there is sea there is always an Ale Hop shop.

So much to see and do in this area enjoy.

PAGE 20

Monday 3rd - Sunday 9th May, 2021

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Ciudadanos refuse to support vote forcing resignation of Orihuela Mayor At the monthly meeting of the Orihuela Plenary on Thursday, Ciudadanos moved away from the possibility, albeit remote, of joining with the PSOE and Cambiemos, in a motion of censure, against the mayor Emilio Bascuñana, who is currently being investigated for an alleged crime of embezzlement of public funds, for having taken a public salary from the Ministry of Health as an advisor for five and a half years without having done the job.

Their votes, along with those of the PP and Vox, overruled the proposal, which was aimed at each political group confirming it’s position on the judicial situation that the mayor is currently in.

Aix defended his support for Bascuñana saying "I have to put Orihuela's interests first, and give my government partner the opportunity to defend himself."

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Aix in the background with mayor Bascuñana

That explanation should have been given on Thursday but the mayor’s appearance before the judge was postponed until the end of May.

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According to witnesses, the first Civil Guards who arrived at the Town Hall drew their pistols - and took cover behind police vehicles.

The police patrols rushed to Alginet, a municipality in Ribera Alta, Valencia, after several residents called 112 reporting several individuals armed with submachine guns had stormed the town hall.

Criticism is now being aimed at the mayor of Alginet, José Vicente Alemany, who failed to notify the neighbourhood, the Civil Guard and Local Police of the scheduled television filming.

O

The company says that it is currently owed € 255,378 by the Orihuela council, four invoices of 63,844 euros per month for December, January, February and March, to which will be added a fifth invoice for April in the coming days, taking the municipal debt to 319,000 euros, an amount that they say is unaffordable.

Online counselling sessions for Orihuela’s international residents

The first of them, on Monday, which is aimed mainly at the British resident, will address the existing doubts that have arisen following Brexit.

The Councilor for International Residents, Mariola Rocamora, explained that "we continue to promote the participation of foreign residents in the different areas that affect municipal life, in addition to providing care and advice."

The Evil Trouser Monkeys

travelled back in time to David Bowie, Jimmy Hendrix, The Cure, Gary Moore, and Talking

The Evil Trouser Monkeys band members Perren Armstrong, Andrew Hopkins and Gary Hutchinson talk to Andrew Atkinson in a Leader exclusive.

La Marina based bass player Gary's biggest influence are Oasis: "Oasis made me first pick up a guitar, and from there on I

The company has said that all invoices have been approved by the municipal technical manager of the contract and it accuses the City Council of acting arbitrarily "without any reason", therefore, after four months of default, soon to become five, it will stop providing the service on 27 May 27.

It will also claim for damages, including lost profits and industrial profits for the outstanding period, about 800,000 euros per year for the remaining 3 years of the contract.

The Department of International Residents has organized two online training session 11.30 am ons for May 3 and 4, on the subjects of Brexit, taxes and residency.

The second talk, on Tuesday, will deal with financial matters, tourist rent, taxes to be paid as non-residents, as well as residency permits in Spain.

Orihuela Costa Road Maintenance Contract to be suspended riolana Construcciones Zaplana Caselles has written to the Orihuela Council advising them that it’s work on the maintenance of Orihuela Costa roads will be suspended due to the municipal debt.

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The deputy mayor added that he is waiting for Bascuñana's "official explanation" to be presented in court.

CIVIL GUARD AND LOCAL POLICE IN TERROR ALERT Quote: 'Actors were in scenes robbing a bank as Civil Guard police patrols surround building - believing it was under siege with machine guns'.

By Andrew Atkinson As filming took place with three hooded actors in a scene involving the robbery of a bank, national police Civil Guard patrols surrounded the building - believing criminals were assaulting Alginet City Hall in Valencia with machine guns.

The events occurred in the Sleepy town of Alginet that has a population of just 13,000, during the recording of the series directed by Aitor Espert, with the title 'Powerboys', scheduled to Premiere in

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The non-payment is as a result of a signature by the Councilor for Infrastructure, Ángel Noguera (Cs), who claims that the works “do not meet the required standard.”

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time of Edward the Confessor, it was also a manor for the Knights Templar. It became the headquarters of the European PGA in 1977 and the Brabazon Course hosted the Hennessey Cognac Cup in 1978 between Gt. Britain and Ireland and Europe.

It was on the par 4 10th hole that Seve Ballesteros hit a shot the course designers had never envisaged.

Nick Faldo found the fairway but Seve hit his persimmon-headed driver a massive 280 yds to the right over the trees to land 8ft from the pin for a birdie putt. A plaque now marks the spot.

THE WORLD GOLF HALL OF FAME at St. Augustine, Florida is a favourite with golfing enthusiasts.

who retired before 1980. The "lifetime achievement" category honours major contributors to the sport, eg. Bob Hope.

Visitors can wander round the museum, learn about the legends (male and female) and view their memorabilia, good luck trinkets and clubs.

The World Golf Village features luxurious accommodation and two championship golf courses, the King & Bear (Palmer and Nicklaus) and Slammer & Squire (Snead and Sarazen.)

Afterwards they can try the island green Challenge Hole, or play over 165 courses on a simulator.

One round on the 18-hole, natural-grass putting course is included in admission. The Hall of Fame’s Member Locker Room looks like a posh clubhouse. The Trophy Tower holds some of golf’s most historic and unusual trophies.

The qualifications required for election to the World Golf Hall of Fame are: minimum of 40 years old, or five years retired from "active competition," 15 or more wins on 'approved tours' or 2 Majors.

The veterans category is for amateurs or pros

The blurb says: “After an exciting day relax with your pals at Champions Grille over beers and a 'Bear Burger' or 'King Melt' with stacked slices of prime steak on ciabatta.” Worth the trip on it's own.

THE BETFRED BRITISH MASTERS hosted

by Danny Willett, takes place at the Belfry from 10th - 15th May. The world-class Brabazon course has a rich golfing history, including hosting four Ryder Cups and seventeen European Tour events.

Consisting of three courses, The Belfry is one of Britain’s most popular venues. Originally Known as Moxhull Hall,and dating back to the

At the 1985 Ryder Cup he was paired with Manuel Pinero in the morning foursomes, they were 2 up at the 10th hole. Once again Seve took his driver, and this time his ball soared left over the water, landing on the green for a birdie putt.

He and Pinero won 2&1. Europe went on to win the Cup 16.5-11.5, the first U.S. loss since 1957.

IF JON RAHM or Sergio Garcia triumph over the Americans at The PGA on Kiawah Island this month don't be surprised if a resounding Spanish cheer is heard from above. Remembering the “War on the Shore” it'll be Seve.

A PLEASURE TO WATCH a traditional foursomes at the Zurich Classic, instead of the Longest Drive competition pro golf seems to be these days.

A neck and neck battle down the back nine between the two leading teams, finally a well deserved win for Marc Leishman and Cameron Smith on the first playoff hole.

Amusing to hear the commentators explaining to bemused viewers the meaning of “alternate holes.”

Hopefully at the Ryder Cup Europe can demon-

PAGE 21

strate further. Graeme McDowell celebrated his first ace on the PGA tour by providing a cooler of beer for the press tent. Lucky he owns a bar.

The first recorded hole in one was made by Tom Morris in the 1868 British Open. The record for most PGA tour aces is 10. Phil Mickelson has recorded five.

Art Wall Jr., the 1959 Masters champion had more than 40 holes in one during his career. Tiger Woods has shot 20 aces, his first at the age of 6.

The odds against a pro golfer getting a hole in one: 3,000 to one. The odds against an average golfer getting a hole in one: 12,000 to one.

Even so, I haven't given up hope.

Until next time – Happy Golfing.

Lo Marabu Golf Society At El Plantio in assn with Sapphire Properties and Costa Blanca Green Fee Services For this month’s meeting the Lo Marabu Golf Society and a group of 27 players visited the established course at El Plantio taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services.

The weather was beautiful and the day was enjoyed by all and today’s event was the Whacker Trophy in memory of Shaun Dear.

Whacker Trophy Winner – Brian Smith – 40 points Gold Division 1st Brian Smith 40 pts, 2nd Neil Ashton 31 pts Silver Division 1st Gary Doyle 36 pts, 2nd Jim Bryce 33 pts Bronze Division 1st Steve Mathers 32 pts, 2nd Paul Fairbairn 25 pts Nearest the Pins – Nicholson, Martin and Bryce Football Card – Graham Mason After the game we returned to Edina’s Bar and Grill bar, which is located at Dona Pepa, Quesada and we give our thanks for their support and that of our sponsor Sapphire Properties.

Our next fixture is the interim day also at La Serena on the 13th May 2021 followed by the Society Day at El Valle on the 27th May 2021.

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

Mike Probert talks Golf ........ In assn with Costa Blanca Green Fee Services

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 and run our golf comps.

SAND STORM I am sure that during your golfing life you will have played with someone who during the round has seen more sand than Laurence of Arabia.

This article is targeted at not only golfers who have difficulty with sand shots from bunkers but also those that wish to improve on their current standards.

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: Course Price Comments Alenda €98 Two Green Fees & Buggy Alicante €98 Two Green Fees & Buggy from 1pm Altorreal €120 Two Green Fees & Buggy Bonalba €100 Two Green Fees & Buggy Campoamor €158 Two Green Fees & Buggy Don Cayo (Altea) €90 Two Green Fees + Buggy

Many competitive golfers can become almost obsessed with their golfing statistics and while this is good to identify your areas of strength and weakness on the golf course they only tell you what you have DONE. When you practise you must start to record statistics of what you are CAPABLE of doing.

5th uphill lie 6th ball above feet 7th ball below feet 8th ball plugged 9th hard base or thin sand

Dr Karl Morris from the PGA tour advocates a bunker game called ‘Sand Storm’ to assist this process.

Play the course once a week and record a score for nine holes and keep trying to beat your personal best.

In effect you find a practise bunker and create a small nine hole bunker course for yourself as follows:

From a mental perspective the idea is that statistically you will provide evidence to yourself that you are improving and this will provide you with confidence.

1st short bunker shot (up to 10 yards) 2nd medium bunker short (10-20 yards) 3rd long bunker shot (20-30 yards) 4th downhill lie El Plantio El Valle Font Del Llop Hacienda Del Alamo La Finca La Galiana La Manga La Marquesa La Sella La Serena La Torre Las Colinas Las Ramblas

€98 €59 €123 €100 €214 €73 €90 €60 €48 €114 €59 €174 €164

Two Green Fees + Buggy from 1pm Single Green Fee Two Green Fees & Buggy Two Green Fees + Buggy Two Green Fees + Buggy Single Green Fee Single Green Fee Single Green Fee Single Green Fee Two Green Fees & Buggy Single Green Fee Two Green Fees & Buggy Two Green Fees + Buggy

This is a win-win situation for you are as golfer because if your average score improves your self belief and confidence will soar and if it does not then you have confirmed that it is time for swing tuition to work on specific aspects of your bunker technique.

Lorca €78 2 Green Fees & Buggy (+ drink & tapa) Lo Romero €65 Single Green Fee Mar Menor €116 Two Green Fees + Buggy New Sierra Golf €68 Two Green Fees & Buggy Puig Campana €124 Two Green Fees & Buggy Roda €125 Two Green Fees & Buggy Saurines €100 Two Green Fees + Buggy (Temp closed) Villaitana Levante €90 Two Green Fees & Buggy Villaitana Poniente €70 Two Green Fees & Buggy Villamartin €156 Two Green Fees & Buggy Vistabella €123 Two Green Fees & Buggy (from 2pm) For Bookings and info Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting reference LEADER or on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931

PAGE 22

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La Marina Bowls Club

by Dave Hadaway Today I want to start with Einstein's theory of relativity or rather about his lack of thought to a theory of coincidence (that must be a formula). You know the situation where two cars are approaching from different directions on a empty road apart from one cyclist and they all meet at exactly the same point and the cars have to slow down to avoid each other.

Likewise we waited a long time in bowls for trips to take place and then be called to have our Covid jabs at the same time and day.

Waterloo Bowls cancelled for second consecutive year

By Andrew Atkinson Exclusive The 2021 Crown Green Waterloo Bowls Championship has been cancelled for a second consecutive year, due to the ongoing situation of the Blackpool based stadium needing thousands of pounds worth of refurbishment, added to the COVID-19 situation.

"The 2021 Waterloo bowls Championship is definitely not on," five times Waterloo champion Gary Ellis exclusively told me.

"It is unlikely that there will be any bowling at the Waterloo at all this year," added Ellis, after this year's competition was thrown in doubt, pending a full schedule of maintenance works for the stadium to be signed-off.

The prestigious crown Green Waterloo bowls Championship this year hung on a knife-edge as negotiations continued into the costs of putting a new lease in place and commencing maintenance works on the stadium, being the only crown green bowling stadium in Britain.

The Waterloo event which goes back to 1907 was first won by Jas Rothwell, with a prize pot of £25.

Prior to the confirmation of the cancelled event Ellis said the Waterloo was based on the focus shifts to getting a new 10 year lease in place, getting the stadium maintenance work done, and getting all the work signed-off as acceptable for regulation and insurance purposes. "There was a small chance that things would move quickly - and we would be able to run something at short notice at the end of the season," said Ellis.

Amidst the uncertainty of this year's Waterloo being staged the mower that the green used has returned back to the manufacturer.

"The firm who had kindly donated it to us for use understandably needed it back, due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"It's not practical to 'borrow' mowers from other bowls clubs, transporting them is an issue of course," reasoned Ellis.

"We are therefore intending to purchase a temporary mower at the cheaper end of the scale, for approximately £1,000, as clearly we need something to make sure the green doesn't simply overgrow this year," said Ellis.

"This is really an unavoidable cost that will have to come out of the £75,000 stadium maintenance funds we have raised.

Carp-R-Us For the first time in several weeks the Carp-R-Us match took place in much calmer conditions.

Sadly, the recent rains had left the River Segura at Jacarilla/Bigastro running high, fast and dirty so, whilst Round 7 of the Spring Series took place mainly in sunshine, the fish didn’t feel inclined to feed.

First, continuing his good form, was Dave Hutchinson with 4.12kg caught on pole and corn from peg 7.

Second was Ken Wilcock (peg 4) whose single carp of 2.30kg caught on feeder and maggots was enough to just pip Richard Crawshaw who had 2.28kg from peg 11.

Fourth was Willy Moons with 2.14kg caught using his customary feeder and chickpeas.

But 4 very good teams on paper turned up and in both games there was an early finish, let’s just say 2 teams would not be over excited by the scores. To be fair however Peter Parsons gave a master class on “yard on” bowling and on the other rink Irene Mangan gave another master class on leading.

The games were the mixed trips and I believe conclude the SemiFinals although Don still has the problem with the 4's to be played.

The results of today's games were Janet Parsons, Tom Spencer & Peter Parsons 18, Margaret MacLaughlin, Alex Whyte and Shirley Hadaway 7 after 15 ends. The other game was Irene Mangan, Marylyn Fryatt and Alex Morrice 19, Jean Fowkes, Cliff Rawlinson, and Don Fowkes 7 after 12 ends.

Thank you all, and our overall thanks must go to the committee especially Don Fowkes for managing to get the competitions to final stages under such difficult circumstances.

"If and when we have got through the points above - and are definite on continuing - we will need to upgrade it to a better mower, to allow the green to be cut to playing standard," he said.

"After extensive talks surrounding the maintenance works needed to be made at the stadium and the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the situation of COVID-19 this year's event will not take place, which comes on the back of last year's cancellation," said Ellis.

In 2019 a public appeal for donations was launched to help safeguard the 114-year-old South Shore bowls arena amid structural problems which forced the East stand to be demolished.

At the time a new management structure was put in place that liaised with the governing body on risk assessment.

A structural report was carried out at the stadium and the venue was deemed fit for purpose, with the levelling of space needed where the East stand was in situ.

In the longer term a new lease was needed to make Lottery funding possible.

Since 1907 The Waterloo has only missed four years of staging the competition, in 1910 and 1939, due to the war years, and 2020 and 2021.

Following the initial outbreak of coronavirus the committee took its lead from Government and Bowls Scotland advice, including a risk assessment and it was found there were unacceptable risks. To protect members it was closed until further notice.

Yvonne Goes Into Lockdown!

We headed off to La Finca for Monday’s 2 ball better ball competition. Yvonne Phipps eventually made it to the first tee after a search and rescue party found her locked in the ladies toilet!

Despite the extra length of the course compared to Las Ramblas there were still some very good scores posted.

With 41 points and winning on countback were Andy Martin and Donna Campbell. Pipped at the post were Dave Pulling and John Drakesmith whilst in third place, with 40 points, it was Bryan Neal and John Shervell.

There were plenty of prizes up for grabs in Wednesday’s ‘Biggerstaff Bash’ 2 ball better ball.

This annual event is played in memory of and named after one of our founder members; Geoff.

Our reigning champions, Mark Western and Nigel Price, failed in their efforts to retain the trophy but came in third with a very respectful 45 points.

This year’s winners, with 48 points, were Joyce McClusky and Mike Brentnall. John Shervell was the bridesmaid yet again as, alongside Lindsay Forbes, he was runner up with 46 points. It was the usual suspects cashing in on the nearest the pins. Andy and Andrea Martin got one each and

Las Ramblas GS

they were joined by Mike Chapman and Ron Phipps. Thanks to Dee Biggerstaff for the halftime snacks and to Jonnie at Rikikiki’s Bar, La Fuente, for hosting our awards ceremony. (Yes the clubhouse is still closed).

Friday saw us play a 6x6x6 reverse. In teams of four it was three to score on the 1st 6 holes, two on the second 6 and just one on the final 6. As this was the first time we’d played this format our new record score of 90 points went to Graham Murray, Paul Brown, Nora Betts and Mike Chapman. Just two behind them were Andrea Martin, Yvonne Phipps, Lindsay Forbes and Nigel Price.

Pues hasta la semana que viene Peter Reffell

Next week hopefully we may be able to produce a programme for the finals which we are all very much looking forward to.

Emerald Isle Bowls Club

By Elwyn Morris The club is back holding its Club days on Tuesday, Thursdays and Sundays, where visitors are welcome under new restrictions of course.

And the old favourite SAPS is back on Saturdays presently at 1pm, where e you can Bowl for 2 hours, with Shoes and Bowls supplied if needed, and you can be coached if needed as well, all for 5 Euros. Great deal.

St Georges Day was celebrated by a England v Rest of World internal game great game followed by Fish and Chips and a little drink??

New players are welcome in readiness for us bowling normally before too long, well let’s hope so anyway.

On May 23rd the club is holding a tournamnt in support of The Royal British Legion Centenary year, with The Leader kindly sponsoring this game. Hopefully it will be a great day.

Lo Crispin Golf @ El Plantio Following a number of cancellations, 22 members and 1 guest 'teed it up' in an individual stableford competition on 28th. April. The weather was almost perfect and the course was generally in good condition, although some of the tee boxes were a bit scruffy and threadbare. While fully understanding and appreciative of covid restrictions regarding the raking of bunkers etc. surely course staff could at least rake them prior to play starting for the day ! The sand in some of the bunkers was very compacted and looked like they might not have been raked for months. The scores for the day were poor, despite no obvious reason for it. As always following the game we returned to the lo Crispin Tavern where the day's prizes were awarded.

Gold Division - 1st. Place - Graham Ellis 22 pts. off 5 2nd. Place - Ray Hampton 21 pts. off 11 (on count back) 3rd. Place - Rod Pullen 21 pts. off 9 Silver Division - 1st. - Margaret O'Brien 24 pts. off 29 2nd. Plce - Barney Barningham 20 pts. off 23 (on count back) 3rd. Place - Scott Blair - 20 pts. off 28 N.T.P. on Par 3s.

Hole 7 - Ray Hampton Hole 9 - Andy Quinn Hole 14 - No one managed to reach or stay on the green.

Hole 17 - Graham Ellis Finally, the Free Game Draw was won by one of our newer members, Julie King. Our next game is at La Finca on the 12th. May is our 2nd. Major of the year, the Claret Jug. Steve Harrington (Handicap and Membership Secretary).

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Twelve medals for Torrevieja Rhythmic Gymnasts Young gymnasts from Torrevieja’s Jennifer Colino Club were in fine form at the weekend with seven of them progressing through the Provincial and Autonomous Individual Championship to automatic qualification for the Nationals during the first week in June.

The young ladies came away from Alfafar in Valencia, with a total of 12 medals which Jennifer Colina, herself a former champion, described as a magnificent achievement.

PAGE 23

Monte keeper Carlos sidelined

By Andrew Atkinson

In Benjamín, the youngest category, Anastasiia Salkova was making her debut at this level, winning the competition in the hands-free exercise.

Janna Androsova was another debutante, this time in the 2006 cadet category. She too finished in top sport with the mace apparatus.

Valencia 1st Regional Group 10 CD Montesinos goalkeeper Carlos has been sidelined after sustaining a torn tendon foot injury that has left him on crutches.

Her teammate, Valeria Zubcoff, finished as Runner-up.

In the infantil category 2009, Anna Romashova was crowned Provincial Champion and Autonomous Runner-up, with the ball apparatus, while her partner, Katya Pankratova, finished as Provincial Runner-up and fourth in the Autonomous Championship.

SANTA POLA

In the infantil 2008 children's category, Karolina Luchynets was proclaimed Provincial and Autonomous Champion with the ball apparatus, while teammate, Eva Zatpesilina, finished in fourth.

The Terry Owen Memorial Trophy 17 members and guests from Alfie’s GS played at one of our local courses at Villamartin. The course was in first class condition, the greens were true and the weather played its part in what was at times a perfect day for golf, so breaking par today should be possible.

Our winner of the Gold Division was our Handicap Secretary, Derek Fleet playing off 19.9 with a score of 36 points.

2nd place went to our Treasurer, Ian Ingledew playing off 13.4, with 35 stableford points. Both golfers received Keg’N’Kitchen vouchers.

The winner of the Silver Division was Rita Potters playing off a handicap off 27.2, with 37 pts.

Second place went to Gary Armstrong playing off 20.9, with 35 points. Both golfers received Keg’N’Kitchen meal vouchers.

Nearest the pin on the 9th – went to Dave Steward, Dave won an Albatross Golf Voucher.

Nearest the Pin in 3 Shots on the 11th – went to Rita Potters, Rita won an Albatross Golf voucher.

Longest Drive on the 12th - went to Bob Chambers, Bob won a bottle donated by The Avenue Bar. Nearest the pin on hole 13 - went to Dan Jones, Dan won an Albatross golf voucher.

Best gross score on hole 14 went to Gary Armstrong, with 5 shots, Gary won an Albatross Golf Voucher.

Nearest the pin in 2 on hole 15 - went to Geoff

Carlos who signed for the Los Montesinos based club in 2019 following a spell in the UK at Cambridge City, during a period when he was studying English, is a former Player of the Year and Manager's Player of the Year Awards winner.

SIGNING Meanwhile, Valencia Preferente Group VI club Santa Pola CF have bolstered their squad under the extension to registrations granted by the FFCV for the 2020-21 season by signing defender Viti Orenes at the Manolo Maciá.

Promotion and relegation battles unfold

Alfie’s Golf Society @ Villamartin – 29th April

SUDUKO SOLUTION From From page 14

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Sinclair, Geoff won a bottle donated by Tony Hall.

Best Net Score on hole 16 was won by Ian Ingledew, Ian won an Albatross Golf Voucher.

The Blind pairs were won by Steve Youngs and Norman Howes.

Our winner on the day, with 37 pts was Rita Potters.

Rita won the Terry Owen Memorial Trophy.

Many thanks to our sponsors, also a big thank you to Ben and Gary at The Keg’N’Kitchen for their continued support and the other sponsors throughout the year. And finally thanks to all the members and guests for supporting Alfie’s Golf Society.

Our next outing is at La Finca on the 27th May 2021, and at the time of writing there were 21 of 24 places taken. So we are expecting a good day and plenty of prizes from our President, Mr Tony Hall. Ian Connell, Captain

TRIVEA QUIZ ANSWERS FROM PAGE 14: 1. Bob Hope, 2. A contraction of "and per se, and", 3. d. Margarita, 4. France, Spain, USA, , China. 5. To Catch A Thief (Cary Grant played John Robie), 6. Ivan Lendl and Pete Sampras (8), Jimmy Connors (7), Roger Federer (7) Novak Djokovic (7), 7. Picasso 8.

Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan and Russia, 9. The Andaman Islands, 10. a. Sugar Me (Linsey De Paul), b. Brown Sugar (Rolling Stones), c. A Spoonful of Sugar (Julie Andrews), d. Sugar Sugar (The Archies), 11. Indonesia, 12.

By Andrew Atkinson Aspe UD 'A', Atletico de Catral CF, CF Rafal, Hondon Nieves C, CD Cox, CD Benijofar and CD Montesinos have finished in the top seven of the Valencia 1st Regional Group 10 to qualify for promotion play-off games in a COVID-19 affected 2020-21 season.

Due to a plethora of fixtures postponed during the campaign following coronavirus lockdown the FFCV have split the league, with the top seven and bottom seven clubs vying for promotion and relegation, respectively.

Fixtures on April 24-25 saw CD Cox defeat Racing San Miguel 3-0, with Racing slipping down to tenth, missing out on the promotion race cut-off.

CD Montesinos gained a 4-2 win against lowly CF Monnegre to clasp seventh spot. Atletico de Catral CF sit in second place despite losing 3-1 away at CF Popular Orihuela, the latter finishing eight in the table cut-off.

Racing San Miguel put out a media shout to fans ahead of their fixture against CD Cox to rally the team on in a bid to retain a top half place in the league.

"The game was important for the team. It was the last day of the regular league, after which the competition be divided into two groups," said a spokesperson from the club.

CD Cox sat sixth place in the league, with Racing San Miguel seventh, along with CD Benijofar and CD Montesinos in eighth and ninth, the quartet all on 17 points ahead of fixtures.

Reservoir Dogs, Pulp Fiction, Four Rooms, 13. Making Your Mind Up (Bucks Fizz is orange juice and champagne). 14. a. Venice. b. Rio de Janeiro, c. Agra, d. Brussels, e.

Istanbul. 15. The Pan American Highway. 16. a. Rolling Stones, b. Pink Floyd, c. CCR, d. Moody Blues, 17. U Thant. 18. a. William Blake (Tyger Tyger), b. Dylan Thomas (Do not go gentle into the good night), c. Elizabeth Barrett Browning (Sonnet 43), d. Alfred Lord Tennyson (The Charge of the Light Brigade). 19. In - A - Gadda - Da - Vida (instead of 'In The Garden Of Eden' from Iron Butterfly). 20. An encore. ("Elvis has left the buiding")

"We only depend on ourselves, that is why we asked the fans to leave a message of support for our players. The fans are what push us to continue, to fight.

"The support and pride of our people, the town of San Miguel, is always with us," said the spokesperson.

Following behind closed doors games spectators will return to the terraces in May, after Government easing of coronavirus restrictions.

Valencia 1st Regional Group 10

Team

Elche miss Stoppage time Penalty Elche 0 At Madrid 1 With four LaLiga Santander Matchdays to play, Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid are still leading the pack after only just overcoming Elche on Saturday to ensure they would end the weekend top.

However Elche certainly feel hard done by as a missed stoppage time penalty should have

Pts

given them at least a share of the points.

Real Madrid had a tough time as well, hosting Osasuna later on Saturday evening.

They eventually got over the line with a 2-0 win, and move to within two points oftheir cross-city rivals, three ahead of Barcelona and four ahead of Sevilla.

The Catalans and Andalusians, though, each have a game in hand with neither playing over the weekend.

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