The Leader Newspaper Edition 867 – May 17

No 867 Monday 17th - Sunday 23rd May 2021

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

LA ZENIA EMERGENCY CENTRE ALMOST THERE Just one of many demo`s held over the years, at the centre’s lack of progress

W

ell it looks as though it is finally coming good. After all those demonstrations by CLARO and it’s partners, we are told that the completion of the Orihuela Costa Emergency and Coordination Centre is now only weeks away, with the Orihuela Government cur-

rently finalising details of the tenders for furniture and equipment.

Twelve years after Monica Lorente, the Mayor at the time, first laid the foundation stone, the centre is finally nearing the end of its construction.

Following the bankruptcy of the original

builder and the site lying dormant for almost ten years, construction works got under way once again just over a year ago, when the Oriolana builder, Doalco, was awarded the contract for 2,064,690 euros.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE Orihuela Costa Emergency Centre ADVERTISING SALES

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Despite some disruption caused by the Coronavirus Pandemic the centre is now close to completion with the Department of Emergencies saying that they expect the building to be handed over to them by the end of June, and to be fully operational toward the end of summer.

This final part will depend on the speed with which the furniture and equipment supply contract is awarded.

The deadline for submitting tenders is 27 May after which the evaluation process will take place. Once awarded, the company then has a period of 30 working days, from the formalisation of the contract, to deliver and fit the material and the equipment included in the technical specifications.

The furnishings will be installed in the 4,651 m2 of constructed area spread over the basement, ground and first floors, at a cost of 74,856 euros.

The facilities will house units of the National Police, Civil Guard, Local Police, Firefighters, Civil Protection, Samur Ambulance, Immigration and the Forest Brigade.

The basement will be used for parking, police cells and a small gymnasium while the ground floor will accommodate offices for immigration, Civil Guard, National Police, a control room and information. There will also be rooms for Samur, Civil Protection, Fire Department, Forest Brigade and the Red Cross.

The basic bidding budget for all the equipment in

the basement is 7,543 euros, for the ground floor 48,025 euros, first floor 2,016 euros and IT 4,280 euros - taxes not included.

The construction history of the emergency centre is one of delays. The first dates back to 2009 when, after building the skeleton, the company went bankrupt, and work was brought to a halt.

Later, the new Contract Law came into force which made it necessary to write new specifications for the project.

In 2018 the Consell delegated the construction of the centre to the local council through the Special Plan to Support Productive Investment in the municipalities of the Community.

In March 2020, the covid pandemic arrived on the scene and although local builder Doalco was awarded the contract, shortly afterwards the pandemic brought with it the stoppage of non-essential jobs and services.

Work had finally resumed by August 2020, at which time the government team said that the building would be finished at the beginning of the following year, however, unable to meet the deadline, in March they released a new forecast.

They announced that the centre would now be operational before June.

Unfortunately, that will be another date that will soon pass us by but with the tenders for equipment and furniture in process the authorities now say that the centre will be fully operational by the end of the summer.

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Monday 17th - Sunday 23rd May, 2021 The fabulous Jersey Boys

THE RBL CELEBRATING ONE HUNDRED YEARS T he Jersey Boys were the headline act but it was The Royal British Legion that stole the show, as it celebrated 100 years of support to the military community on Saturday at the Emerald Isle in La Florida.

Leroy Morales with the Crazy Ladies

Formed on 15 May 1921 by a most unlikely couple, in former Lance Bombardier Fred Lister and Field Marshal Douglas Haigh, they had watched on as soldiers, many of whom had been invalided out, were sent back to Britain as ‘fit’ in appalling conditions, at the conclusion of WW1, such was the shortage of manpower.

They were also very concerned with the plight of the wives and children of those who had fallen.

Initially there were four organisations working for the interests of returning ex servicemen but, following a Unity Conference in London, Haigh was elected as President and Lister as Chairman of the newly formed RBL. Since those early days the Legion has established a lasting commitment to fair treatment for service personnel, veterans and their families, and now boasts over 2000 branches across the globe.

Jean Heald, Eddie Coleman and Janice Poole

The intention this year had always been to commemorate the centenary of the RBL with a number of big events, the foremost of which was to be a concert at the International Auditorium in Torrevieja, featuring major International performers. Unfortunately, however, the Covid pandemic put paid to that late last year, but not wishing the anniversary to go unmarked Stevie Spit then picked up the mantle, going on to engage the support of several of the region’s top acts.

And so they all came together last Saturday, at the Emerald Isle, La Florida, where, in front of over 300 people they each provided their services, absolutely free of charge.

Event organiser Stevie Spit and the fabulous Jersey Boys were joined by Leroy Morales, Melissa Fanning, The Crazy Ladies, Funky Blinders and Belinda Bingo, with a wonderful dance and flag waving display by Footwork Dance bringing an afternoon of wonderful entertainment to a close, and although the purpose of the event was not specifically to raise money, with the arrival of Nanny McPhee, all that soon changed as she set about her exploits as a fundraiser `most extraordinaire`.

By the end of the afternoon her efforts had raised over 1300 euro

for the RBL Poppy Appeal, all of which will be used to support veterans and their families here in Spain.

Our thanks of course to the Emerald Isle and their hard working and efficient staff, to all the entertainers who gave of their time for free, to Jean Heald, Eddie Coleman and Janice Poole who manned the RBL stalls, and especially to Stevie Spit and Nanny McPhee who both went above and beyond to make the afternoon such an extraordinary success.

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REFURBISHED PASCUAL FLORES DUE TO VISIT TORREVIEJA IN JUNE T he replica of the Schooner, Pascual Flores, has now had it’s 3 masts refitted by the Nao Victoria Foundation, an organisation that specialises in the restoration of replicas of historical ships.

The masts had previously been lost due to lack of maintenance, while it was docked as a floating museum in Torrevieja.

The mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolón together with the Councilor for Culture, José Antonio Quesada, visited the boatyard in Huelva where the refitting is taking place.

next few weeks, the ship will begin its first promotional tour calling into a number of different Mediterranean ports , with a special stopover in Torrevieja, toward the end of June.

The Foundation will receive 750,000 euros over a period of five years for maintaining the ship in exchange for which it will also be used as an “ambassador” of the city's maritime and salt-mining history visiting ports and mounting exhibitions in Spanish waters and abroad.

It will be equipped with exhibition content and can be visited by the public and schoolchildren in all the cities where it stops, with it will provide a

On the first of these tours it will call into the port of Torrevieja, thought to be toward the end of June.

The job of restoring and overhauling the Pascual Flores began last November 2020, when the boat was pulled out of the water in Punta Umbría (Huelva), since which time more than 25 craftsmen, including carpenters, caulkers, welders, blacksmiths and engineers have been working to restore it to it’s former glory.

Since then, its gangways and cabins have been restored, the lining and deck boards have been changed, and the hull caulked and painted.

On April 14, the ship was launched and moved to Huelva, where new masts were fitted and where work is currently under way to complete its rigging. A bow thruster has been installed, and it will be equipped with new ‘state of the art’ equipment for international navigation.

Once the work is completed, it is expected in the

program of activities designed together with the Municipal Institute of Culture.

After spending several days in Torrevieja, the ship will sail to the Bremerhaven Maritime Festival (Germany), which will be held from August 11 to 15, the very first time that it will take part in an international maritime festival.

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Woman injured in Punta Prima Fall W

oman rescued by firefighters after Punta Prima cliff face fall Firefighters have rescued a woman who fell down a five-metre cliff face at Punta Prima on the Orihuela Costa Given the difficulty of accessing the area where the woman was lying injured, the rescue exercise lasted almost an hour.

It was carried out on Thursday evening by

firefighters from the Vega South Park in Torrevieja, according to whom she slipped as a rock detached itself while she was walking along a footpath.

She had to be transferred onto a stretcher before she could be lifted to safety.

The woman was treated at the scene by staff from a Basic Life Support ambulance prior to being transferred to Torrevieja Hospital..

Vaccination Program The president of the Generalitat, Ximo Puig, has announced that June will be the key month in the vaccination calendar in Alicante,

Valencia and Castellón.

The president stated that on 17 June the vaccination of the age group between 40 and 50 years will begin, and that during the first fortnight of the month, all those over 50 years old will have received at least one dose

Full steam ahead for new railway The mayors of Torrevieja and Orihuela, Eduardo Dolón and Emilio Bascuñana respectively, held a telematic meeting with the Minister of Territorial Policy, Public Works and Mobility, Arcadi España, to promote the project of the ‘Orihuela-

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Former PP councillor gets jail sentence for corruption

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STEVIE WANDER!

By Andrew Atkinson Steve the tortoise that went AWOL for two days has been returned to its owner after being found in Benijofar.

Nicola Goff, who was notified of a post on media outlets that a tortoise had been found, told The Leader: "When I saw the notice I realised it was our tortoise we lost him for a couple of days on Benimar 3."

The former Orihuela, Partido Popular Councillor for Contracting, David Costa, has accepted a sentence of six months in prison, suspended for two years, for a crime of fraud for the fixing of the Ciudad Deportiva contract in 2010. or they will already be fully immunised.

Vaccination of people over 60 years of age is progressing at a good pace, with the aim that at the end of this month the entire population of this group is protected with at least one dose.

Torrevieja / Orihuela Costa Railway Route’, prepared by the Department of Civil Engineering of the UA. At the meeting, the mayors of the two main towns in the region have expressed the importance for the economic and tourist development of this project, which will link the Intermodal and high-speed station of Orihuela with the area from the coast with Torrevieja / Orihuela Costa and that will serve not only these two municipalities but also the entire coastline of Guardamar, Pilar de la Horadada and even the north of the Murcia region such as San Pedro del Pinatar and San Javier.

The cost of the project is estimated at 277.6 million euro, the amount of which is divided into infrastructure, superstructure, expropriations and BigastroJacarilla, San Miguel and Torrevieja-Orihuela Costa stations.

The Criminal Court number 3 of Orihuela also sentenced him to three years of disqualification from public office, although he has long since retired from politics.

Costa, who was a prominent member of the PP at the time of former mayor Mónica Lorente, has acknowledged his guilt, reaching an agreement with the Public Prosecutor's Office, which originally asked for 4 years in prison for administrative deception in competition, with the crime of fraud. The prosecutor, however, modified his demands and lowered the sentence to 6 months, which he has accepted.

Seminars for Expatriates on Brexit and Taxes Orihuela has organised a POST BREXIT WEBINAR for all British Nationals who live in municipality, scheduled to take place on Weds, 2nd June at 11:30 am.

The videoconference will provide useful info about living in Spain post Brexit and will, hopefully put an end to the many myths and rumours that are circulating.

The return of the tortoise was thanks to Carol Reid from Benijofar, who said: "I found the tortoise in Benimar 2.

"It was in the street - making its way towards the road. We looked after it until the owner was found."

Nicola added: "Steve is safely back home and enjoying his breakfast - thanks to our lovely neighbour for finding him."

phone number, after which you will be sent logging in instructions.

A second WEBINAR on the subject of taxes for nonnational residents in the municipality will be held in both English and Spanish on the following day, Thursday, June 3rd at 11:30 am .

This talk has been presented to the Call for Grants aimed at Councils of the Alicante Provincial Council for projects, programs and activities regarding foreign citizens.

SAT ANIMAL RESCUE Lago is a 3 months medium crossbreed who is full of fun.

If you wish to take part you will need to have the Zoom app unloaded.

Subjects to be covered will include Local taxes, which are paid through SUMA, road tax, income tax for residents, taxes to be paid as a non-resident and apartments for tourist rental.

If you have space in your home for this handsome boy contact

If you wish to join take part email: residentes@orihuela.es with your full name, tele-

Once again you should send an email with your details to residentes@orihuela.es

For more info on Tom contact the kennels on 966 71 0047 or email info@satanimalrescue.com

At the end of this webinar there will be a question and answer session.

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Puig to discuss travel corridor with the British Ambassador The president of the Generalitat Valenciana, Ximo Puig, described the news that the United Kingdom has left Spain out of the list of safe travel destinations as “very negative”, while announcing that he will be meeting with Hugh Elliott, the British ambassador, to discuss the UK position.

Puig underlined the efforts that have been made by the Valencian Community to control covid, stating that “with less than 200 hospitalised patients we are the community with the lowest incidence across the whole of Spain."

"We will do everything possible to make the British authorities understand that they have to distinguish between the different communities and areas," he said as he presented a new advertising campaign with the slogan "Who has lived it, knows it."

The President has insisted that “the Costa Blanca is an important and safe destination at the moment, so we would like the United Kingdom's to reconsider it’s position. "We hope to reach an agreement," said the presi-

Hugh Elliott and Ximo Puig

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dent.

The poor overall situation in Spain has hurt the province's tourism sector in the UK, which has put the country in it’s "amber channel", forcing British tourists to quarantine for ten days when returning home.

Puig said that he applauded the move initiated by the Consell through the Regional Secretary for Tourism, Francesc Colomer, who recently held a videoconference with the British Consul in Spain, Sarah Jane Morris, whom he asked to convey to the British Government the fact that the Valencian Community in general and, the Costa Blanca in particular, can easily justify

special treatment when setting the prevention requirements against covid, which will govern the visits to the area of British tourists from 17 May. The province of Alicante , which until the onset of the pandemic received three million British tourists annually, also has 70,000 UK residents and, right now, has the lowest covid infection rates across the whole of Spain.

Puig wants the UK Government, when setting the colours of it’s traffic lights, to consider the rates of the virus in Spain by region, as they already do with the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands, and not as

a whole.

“In short, the data in other communities should not penalise Valencia where we have extremely good sanitary conditions.”

Meanwhile, the International Air Transport Association has told governments that the high costs of covid tests could still make flights inaccessible and put them out of reach of the current budget of many individuals and families, halting any recovery to the travel industry.

It’s spokesman said, "To facilitate an efficient restart of international travel, tests must be affordable, timely, widely available and effective."

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Orihuela Costa leads the way for the 4th consecutive year S

pain has once again beaten its record of blue flags, 615 of which will fly next summer on the coast.

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TOURIST ROUTES PROGRAMME FOR MAY

Orihuela’s Councillor for beaches, Luisa Boné.

This is 25 more than it achieved in 2020 , "which reflects the quality of the waters, the high level of beach services and safety, and the facilities that they can offer to visitors", according to the announcement made on Tuesday by the Association of Environmental and Consumer Education, the promoter of the initiative.

FRIDAY 21,

The Valencian Community continues to lead the ranking with a total of 153 blue flags, 137 for its beaches and 16 for its ports, but within the community it is the Alicante Province that tops the lists with 74 flags. The Valencia Province has 31 blue flags while Castellón has 32.

Reflections of a natural envi-

A further 12 ports and marina’s have also been awarded with the blue flag in the province of Alicante.

SATURDAY 22,

Meanwhile, Orihuela continues to be the municipality that has accumulated the most awards for its beaches, thus maintaining the quality mark on it’s coast for the fourth consecutive year, with a total of 11 at Punta Prima, Cala Bosque (la Zenia), Cala Capitán-Cabo Roig, Caleta-Cabo Roig, Aguamarina, Campoamor, Barranco Rubio, Cala Estaca, Cala Mosca , Cala Cerrada and Mil Palmeras.

and 7:15 p.m. Meet at the

“The storms, restrictions and uncertainty as a result of the pandemic have made these last two years very difficult, but with the hard work and perseverance of the Orihuela city council, we are once again leading the way with these awards that add so much value to our beaches and to our city as a national and international tourist destination ”, stated the councillor for beaches, Luisa Boné.

LA MODERNISTA 7:00 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.

SATURDAY 22, ronment 10:00 and 12:00 hrs.

Meet at the El Palmeral Interpretation Centre.

Orihuela Palaces 7:00 p.m.

Tourist Information Centre.

Pilar de la Horadada has also retained it’s six blue flags at Mil Palmeras Beach, Jesuitas, del Conde, Puerto, Calas de Rocamar and Higuericas. Mayor José María Pérez Sánchez was another ho praised the efforts of the general public to respect them, and of the work of all the municipal staff, despite the events that have occurred since September 2019 (DANA, Gloria and Covid-19) .

He said “the beaches of Pilar de la Horadada continue to be accessible, sustainable and a credit to the local environment."

The Murcia Region has kept the number of blue flags at 26, the same as in 2020.

By municipality, there are 9 in Águilas (Calarreona, La

Carolina, La Casica Verde, La Colonia, La Higuerica, Las Delicias, Levante, Matalentisco and Poniente), 8 in Mazarrón (Alamillo, Bahía, Mojón, Puerto, GrandeCastellar, Nares, Percheles and Rihuete), 6 in Cartagena (Cala Cortina, Isla Plana, La Azohía-El Cuartel, La Chapineta, Levante-Cabo de Palos and San Ginés) and 1 in Lorca (Calnegre), San Javier (Ensenada del Esparto) and San Pedro del Pinatar .

SATURDAY 29,

A further 6 blue flags have been awarded to marinas at the Nautical Club and the Juan Montiel Sports Port (Águilas), the Regatta Club and the Mazarrón Sports Port, the Marina Salinas de San Pedro del Pinatar and the Real Club de Regatas de Cartagena.

Miguel Hernández: His life

ORIHUELA MUNICIPAL CULTURAL ACTIVITIES WEEK COMMENCING 17 MAY Venues in Orihuela and on the Orihuela Costa LITERATURE Through to 27 June - Literature Exhibition “María Zambrano. La aurora del pensamiento”. (The dawn of thought). Exhibition Rooms Miguel Hernández. Rincón Hernandiano.

19 May – 7.30pm Journalism. Presentation of the digitalised magazine ‘Empiurema’ (1985/2015). Biblioteca Pública Municipal María Moliner. Orihuela.

MUSIC AND THEATRE Thursday, May 20 at 9:30 p.m. "Leo Harlem. Let it count ”. Comedy Monologue. Teatro Circo Atanasio Die Saturday 22 May At 8pm Orcelis Cultural Music Association. “Pasodobles festivities”. Auditorio de La Lonja Sunday 23 May At 8pm Union Lyrical Orcelitana (ULO).

"Music on the beach". Esplanade Playa Flamenca. Orihuela Costa.

Sunday, May 23 at 8:00 p.m. "The leandras of love".

Musical theatre. Free entry. Teatro Circo Atanasio Die Friday 28 / Saturday 29 May. “La llamada. El Musical”.

Teatro Circo Atanasio Die Saturday 29 May At 8pm Nuestra Señora del Remedio "Return". Auditorio de La Lonja Sunday 30 May At 8 pm San Bartolomé Musical Union.

"Spring Concert". Auditorio de San Bartolomé.

Sunday 30 May at 12 noon and 5pm. “Canta Juego, Te

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

SATURDAY 29, and work 7:00 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. Meet at the Miguel Hernández museum

extiendo mi mano”. Children’s Theatre. Teatro Circo Atanasio Die ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN Saturday May 22 - The `Conscious Life ' Tips for a healthy diet. Homemade cleaners (detergents) will be made, as well as natural cosmetics, all with completely natural materials.

Saturday 29 May - The `Editorial Fancinera´ workshop.

Fanzine lovers will be able to interact using art and culture.

Both of the above courses will be held from 10am on Saturdays in the courtyard of the Orihuela Youth House and will include all materials.

ACTIVITIES FOR ENGLISH SPEAKING CHILDREN ORIHUELA COSTA Venue: Centro Cívico, Alameda Del Mar Every Saturday morning at 11am. A recreational and cultural program of storytelling and theatre, puppets and music.

Tuesday 18 May. 6pm. Storytelling and childrens entertainers. Cantacuento de Candela Kummerlin (Cristina Vázquez) Thursday 20 May, 6pm Workshop. Expressive painting Tuesday 25 May. Storytelling. UHAMBO, A journey around the world. Lucía Ros González and Miriam Ginés Martínez-Abarca Thursday 27 May. 6pm Recycling Workshop Jellyfish in the sea.

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ORIHUELA IN HOT WATER WITH CHS Once again it appears that the Orihuela Department of Infrastructure, led by the controversial councillor Ángel Noguera, a member of the Ciudadanos coalition party, has been carrying out works without the appropriate authorisation.

In this case it seems as though the department failed to gain permission from the Segura Hydrographic

CHS investigates illegal actions carried out by Orihuela Councillor for Infrastructure Confederation (CHS) when it installed a pump following its construction of two dams, which enabled it to remove the water from the final section of the Nacimiento riverbed in Dehesa de Campoamor.

The department said that it had the express permission of the CHS to act.

Fifteen more arrests further expose the ‘Grubby fingers’ of Valencia’s Political Elite The Guardia Civil has arrested fifteen suspects in its investigation into corruption within the Valencia Government.

The Central Operational Unit of the Civil Guard (UCO) has arrested the deputy delegate of the Government, Rafael Rubio and the former deputy mayor of Valencia, Alfonso Grau, right hand of man of Rita Barberá during her term as mayor, together with one of his daughters and the builder Jaime

But it seems that this is not the case, as was confirmed on Monday by a spokesperson for the water management company.

As such the Segura Hydrographic Confederation (CHS) has now opened an investigation into the works that are being carried out by the Orihuela City

Council which is drying out the final section of the Nacimiento river leading to La Glea beach.

The same spokesman said that, depending on the outcome of checks carried out, it could lead a prosecution.

However, the council department, led by Ángel Noguera, has said that it did

María Febrer.

According to sources, the money received by Grau is around one million euros in cash, while Rubio would have received approximately 500,000 euros.

Known as the Azud case, UCO sources have confirmed the arrests of an estimated fifteen detainees, all of them in Valencia for corruption involving the exchange of urban contracts.

The Superior Court of Justice of the Valencian Community has explained that the investigation has only just been made public, following a two year long secret investigation, carried out by the Examining Court No. 8 of Valencia.

The Government delegate in the Valencian Community, Gloria Calero, has ordered the "imme-

Alfonso Grau and Rafael Rubio. diate dismissal" of the sub-delegate, Rafael Rubio, in addition to which, the PSPV-PSOE party, to which Rubio belongs, has announced that it has requested the federal leadership of the PSOE to suspend his membership.

Those arrested, including businessmen and members of the government, are accused of charging commissions for awarding government contracts.

obtain permission.

According to Noguera, he had planned to channel the water that remain in the final stretch of the Nacimiento river into the sea, which made it necessary to build two earth dams on both sides of the bed and locate a pump with a tank to pump out the water.

The actions have also been carried out without the knowledge of the Environmental Department, headed by Dámaso Aparicio (PP), which should also have been consulted prior to the start of any work.

In fact local environmental groups such as Amigos de los Humedales and Amigos de Sierra Escalona are demanding that the riverbed be protected, that flora and fauna be re established and cultivated and the old lagoon be recovered.

This is something with which the Department of the Environment completely agrees, once Costas has finally ruled out replacing the section of the coastal road that was swept away by DANA in September 2019.

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“Golden Oldie”....

I Don’t Think So!

T

his is an announcement: You can agree or disagree as always, dear reader, but this column is never afraid to stand up for what is right, and this column will always fight the good fight.

I do not accept that simply because I am in my seventies I am “old”. It is an indisputable fact that we are growing old from the day we are born; we are old at whatever age we become along the journey, but I refuse to be told that I am “old” now – because I am not!

You see, according to official informed thinking, when we pass 60 we are “old”. This column will fight that assertion to the death which, of course, officialdom feels will be soon. Watch my lips: I am not “old”!

Don’t get me wrong; I have no objection to the natural process of ageing as it happens; but if I may paraphrase the prayer of saint Augustine; “Oh Lord make me old – but not just yet”, or even Mae West who said; “Of course I do not mind if I have to grow old when I consider the alternative.”

But then we have well-meaning “do-gooders” who put labels on the likes of me in order to disguise what they are really getting at and sometimes they will even patronise me with stuff like, “60’s are the new middle-age”. God almighty they couldn’t say much worse – I not yet having come to terms with middle age even.

Another bit of name-calling is the term “Golden Oldie”; Jazus, can you beat that one? “Golden Oldie”? It’s like what you might call a fourteen year old yellow Labrador dog. Worse, you will hear radio announcers throwing out “baby talk” at us seventies boys: Happy Birthday to Sean Og Flynn who is 70 years “young” today. You cannot be 70 years young!! When I was nine, I was nine years old, when I reached 21, I was twenty-one years old, when I’m 80, I’ll be eighty years old!

Granted, the next attractive young lady who will run her hand over my once sinewy body will probably be wearing a rubber glove, or when I awake at 4am craving relief from something it is now most likely to be for a half spoonful of bread-soda to cure a heart-burn – but this doesn’t mean I’m old ... does it?

Do you remember the song by Diarmuid O’ Leary and the Bards;

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“The oldest Swinger in Town”? No, that is not me either. I am not going to buy me a Harley Davidson motorcycle, pal around with boy-racers, or do a mail- order (should this be ‘male-order’!) for a 22 years old (see, she’s old too!) Russian girl who “speaks good English.” I just want to be myself – which is just not being old!

Of course I don’t believe that I am going to live forever, unlike that great story told about some famous eccentric English writer who believed he would never die: On his death-bed, he came out of a coma just as a nurse said, “he won’t last tonight”, at which time the patient opened his eyes wide and his last words on this earth were; “Well f**k me!!”

The time has come for us seventies kids to stand up for ourselves. People over 45 in this country control 80% of the wealth. They say “money talks” – well maybe if we start spending it all just on ourselves, there won’t be much more patronising talk about “Golden Oldies”, eh? This is what the rest of them deserve. The youth of today have less respect for old people than ever before. (As I belong to neither category, you can accept this conclusion as an impartial journalistic observation.)

When some cheeky young cur calls me a cranky old fart I don’t allow myself to get annoyed, because I know he must be full of drugs or just out of rehab and that he is just jealous of my acquired wisdom and finesse: This is another benefit of my age group, we have a great understanding of the next generation!

OK, so my eyesight is poorer and my hearing is not what it used to be: I don’t play squash anymore and am more often nowadays referred to as Ian’s or Olga’s dad rather than being the main act.

I am getting better at sleeping in the armchair and I talk of great sportsmen that those around me don’t remember. The fun that my family used to make of me behind my back they now do to my face – but you see, all the time I know something that they do not; they think I’m old and I’m not!

When I do get old and when my time comes to go I shall do so without complaint. As you gather round my little plot in Killulagh, then you can all finally call me “old” – posthumously!!

DON’T FORGET The dangerous age is any time between one and ninetynine.

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 ................ Agapanthus - African Lily AGAPANTHUS - AFRICAN LILY Loved for globe-shaped summer flowerheads

A

gapanthus - commonly called African Lily - are loved for their loose globeshaped summer flowerheads in shades of blue, lilac and white.

Drought tolerant perennials, Agapanthus are either evergreen or deciduous varieties, the latter much hardier than evergreen varieties which can survive cool winters, when grown in a sheltered spot.

Agapanthus can also cope with salty sea winds, making them the perfect choice for a coastal garden.

Plant in Spring, in well drained soil, in full sun, ideally at the foot of a south-facing wall.

Ideal for container growing, Agapanthus flower better, if their roots are restricted, making an excellent cut flower.

Water regularly for the first year when planted in the garden. Those grown in pots will require more regular watering and will also benefit from an annual feed, such as a liquid tomato feed.

Dead head spent flowerheads after blooming, to encourage more flowers, or leave the flowerheads to collect the seeds. Attractive seed heads are often left on for decoration during the Autumn months. Mulch annually with well-rot-

ted compost, or other organic matter.

Divide congested clumps every four or five years, in the Spring or Autumn after flowering, by lifting and carefully dividing the crown with a sharp spade, making sure each section has at least two growing points.

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Robbers ransack property in Catral

By Andrew Atkinson Robbers targeted a property in campo Catral when the owners were away for the weekend - leaving them devastated upon their return home.

Shelley Ann Marie Gould told The Leader: "After a brilliant weekend away we’ve walked into this!

"We’re absolutely heartbroken - they’ve taken things that can never be replaced."

The thieves ripped a 55" TV off a wall, stole gold, jewellery, cash and turned out every single drawer, leaving items scattered around the house.

"Our 12 year old son Jack had his laptop stolen - they’ve taken just about everything," said Shelley.

"If anyone is offered TV's, projector laptop, jewellery, including a gold chain boxing glove pendant with a ruby in please let us know.

"The list is endless. What they’ve taken just keeps adding to the list. We would love it if we could even get something back," she said.

To make matters worse her husband Bryn’s van had also been robbed: "They’ve taken the lot - all his tools are gone.

"The list of stolen items is unreal - the reality is now kicking in. More than

Seminars for Expatriates on Brexit and Taxes The Orihuela department for Residents, has organised a POST BREXIT WEBINAR for all British National who live in municipality which is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 2nd June at 11:30 am.

The videoconference will provide useful information about living in Spain post Brexit and

Bryn, son Jack and Shelley lost almost everything anything my baby boy is so upset. He actually thought they had come back one night, when he heard a noise in the garden," said Shelley.

Friend Sam Greer set up a GoFundMe page after the family failed to renew insurance cover: "We did an epic fail of renewing the house insurance. I’m blown away by the love and and generosity of everyone who’s donated," added Shelley.

will, hopefully put an end to the many myths and rumours that are circulating.

At the end of this webinar there will be a question and answer session.

If you wish to take part you will need to have the Zoom app unloaded.

For further information on how you can join the conference email: residentes@orihuela.es with your full name, telephone number and your email, after which you will be sent logging in instructions.

You may also send your questions beforehand to

ensure that they are included.

A second WEBINAR on the subject of taxes for non-national residents in the municipality will be held in both English and Spanish on the following day, Thursday, June 3rd at 11:30 am .

Subjects to be covered will include Local taxes, which are paid through SUMA, road tax, income tax for residents, taxes to be paid as a non-resident and apartments for tourist rental. Once again you should send an email to residents@orihuela.es with your full name, phone number and email.

New councilor for San Fulgencio San Fulgencio has a new councilor. Mª Ángeles Ferrández Aniorte replaced former councilor David Vives who left politics last April.

The new councilor was sworn in electronically due to the sanitary restrictions derived from Covid-19 that do not yet allow the plenary sessions to be held in person.

Ferrández joins the government team as a member of Ciudadanos, together with councilor Borja Alonso.

The mayor of San Fulgencio, José Sampere, welcomed Mª Ángeles Ferrández "to an occupation as important as working for all Sanfulgentinos."

At the same time he announced that an Extraordinary Plenary is scheduled to be held "in which we will give an account of the reorganization and the new areas of responsibility that the councilors will take on."

PAGE 12

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Monday 17th - Sunday 23rd May, 2021

T

his week I had a chat with my gorgeous friend, fellow radio presenter & vocalist Rain O’ Connor from Co. Armagh. She’s lived in Spain for 14 years so is well established in the area.

Q

Do you come from a musical family?

A Q

Q

Can you see yourself ever moving back?

None of my immediate family are musicians but there are several on my Mum’s side.

There was always music on the go at home.

A

No, but I wouldn’t rule out moving to another country or another part of Spain.

How did you become involved in music?

There’s so much out there to enjoy and different cultures to embrace. I love the easy going lifestyle here.

I started singing at a young age and I’ve been trained in both classical and contemporary styles and I’ve performed on stage with both pop/rock and trad groups.

A

After University I moved to London, during that time I done some backing vocals for a few artists.

I originally came to Spain to recover from a long term illness and never got on the return flight.

The sunshine and relaxed lifestyle suited me and helped with my health so I stayed. I got back into singing by doing some Karaoke and when I felt that I had my confidence back, I put myself out for gigs.

I recorded a C.D, released my 1st single which reached No.1 on the New Irish Country Charts. I got so busy with gigs that summer that I held off from recording more until the winter. That’s when the pandemic hit.

Richie from Big FM was looking for new presenters, we had a chat and 3 years later I’m still there and love it.

Q

What do you miss the most about home?

Being part of a well know GAA family, I travelled throughout Ireland as a kid so there’s not a lot that I missed out on.

I do miss my family and the music scene as there are so many great bands in Ireland.

A

There is never a proper routine which suits me as I get bored easily. The Spanish are very welcoming and a great help when learning the language.

Q

What’s been the hardest part of the pandemic?

Well the most frustrating thing was having so much to do and not being able to do them. I always miss my family but not being able to see my best friend and goddaughter who only live 10 minutes away was the hardest.

A

It’s been frustrating for everyone in different ways. I feel luckier than a lot of people so can’t complain.

The restrictions on working here were infuriating but hopefully this is us out of it and on the other side.

Q

What are your plans for the future?

A

I still do my Country and Irish shows along side regular gigs.

Last year I started a new show called ‘Euphoria’ performing dance classics. I had some amazing nights with that until we got shut down but that’s ready to go again for this summer.

No one knows what the future holds so I’ll continue to work hard and do what I love.

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You can listen to Rain’s shows ‘Super Saturday’ and ‘Sunday Session’ on Big FM 12 noon - 3pm or online at www.bigfm.org.

Check out her Facebook page Rain O’ Connor Singer for future gigs.

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S

D L O

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 866

ACROSS 1.

Comfort (11) 9.

Help (3) 10. Be dissipated (2,2,5) 11. Dim (5) 13. Trucks (7) 14. Spotted (6) 16. Attack (6) 18. Breathe (7) 19. Clothing (5) 20. Manners (9) 21. The lot (3) 22. Unprotected (11) CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE? Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

Solution on Page 23

DOWN 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

12.

15.

17.

19.

21.

Aged (3) Vision (5) Small (6) Approaching (7) Stubborn (9) Lukewarm (4-7) Non-stop (11) Unemotional (9) Gourmet (7) Feverish (6) Live (5) Donkey (3)

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

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

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

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

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

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. Which medical emergency term stems from the French verb meaning 'to separate'?

2. Who were the first two boxers to earn the title World Heavyweight Boxing Champion in the late 19th century?

3. The 2009 British science fiction film 'Moon' was directed by Duncan Jones.

Jones is the son of which famous English musician?

4. Which republic, formerly "British Bechuanaland", adopted its new name after becoming independent within the Commonwealth on the 30th September 1966?

5.The following are the evil antagonists in which Disney films? a. Maleficent, b. Frollo, c. Jafar, d. Ursula, e. Gaston, f. Lady Tremain 6. What is the ancient four letter Persian word for nation or land?

7. Which Hollywood actress who has been married nine times was probably born in 1917?

8. Which 1983 Nobel Peace Prize winner decided to send his wife to Oslo to accept the prize because he feared he would not be readmitted to his homeland?

9. Super Flyweight is a weight division in professional boxing (sometimes referred to as Junior Bantamweight).What is the maximum weight a boxer can be and still be classified in this division? Plus or minus 1kg (Plus or minus 2 lb) 10. The following are the first words to songs with 'home' somewhere in the song title. Name the song? a. So you think you're a Romeo, b. The old home town, c. You're my love you're my angel, d. Somewhere deep inside some-

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

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

( A n s we r s o n p a g e 2 3 ) things got a hold of you, e. Big wheels, 11. Which word for a meeting or conference stems from the Greek word for a drinking party?

12. From a list of historical Empires at their greatest extent, the British Empire was by far the largest, covering an area of 33.7 million sq km back in 1923.

What other historical empires feature in the top five?

13. In which films did Charlton Heston play the following roles? a. George Taylor, b. Moses, c. Michelangelo, d. General 'Chinese' Gordon, e. Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar, f. John the Baptist 14. The hard drinking William Claude Dunkenfield was better known as?

15. Mars has two moons, can you name them?

16. Which English city would have been the new capitol if Adolf Hitler's invasion plans had been successful?

17. Who released the following 'Man' songs? a. Lucky Man (the version with the words "he had white horses"), b. O Lucky Man, c. Starman, d. Plastic Man, e. Charmless Man, f. Backdoor Man, g. Ape Man 18.The English language word 'brainwashing' was first coined during which war?

19. What is inside the doll in the 1967 film thriller 'Wait Untll Dark' staring Audrey Hepburn?.

20. Rosa Maltoni, a school teacher, married blacksmith and revolutionary socialist activist Alessandro. Who was their famous son?

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

DETOX AND THRIVE DETOXING: WHO NEEDS IT? Answer: every single one of us. We need detoxing so badly that our bodies are actually hard at it 24/7, 365 days a year, without a break. ou know you need a spot of extra detoxing if you're tired, if you have big bags under your eyes, if you feel headachey, if you're constipated, if your periods are a real pain, if your stools are smelly and your breath not-sofresh, if your eye-whites aren't white and your tongue is heavily coated.

Y

Just what does all this detoxing remove? It's the normal wastes created in-house by day-to-day living, plus the toxic polluting chemicals we take in with our food, our drink and even the air we breathe or fill our homes with in cleaning, cosmetic and toiletry products.

The French obsess about the health of their livers, and If you eat in any French bistro in the springtime, you will find their favourite dandelion salad on the menu: salade de pissenlit Snippets of bacon are fried until crisp, a little vinegar Is swished around the pan, and then Its contents are poured over a dish of the sharp-tasting fresh young leaves.

A very enjoyable way to do your liver a bit of good.

Drink six to eight glasses of water - preferably filtered every day. And discover a team of herbs that have been used for centuries for cleansing and detox. In medieval times, country people would make up 'spring drinks' from herbs sprouting young, fresh and green in the hedgerows dandelion, nettles and that sticky, clinging stuff, cleavers.

After a winter diet of stodge and salted or dried foods, these spring drinks supplied a badly needed boost of tonic and cleansing phytochemicals.

A course of dandelion treatment in the spring,' wrote the modem French herb enthusiast Jean Palaiseul, 'will tone up your whole body, cleansing it of the waste matter deposited

Nettles stimulate both kidney and bladder function, and they're rich in cleansing, nourishing minerals too.

Both dandelion and nettle come high on any herbalist's list of cleansing, detoxing herbs today.

Put them in a pan with 600ml of water, bring to the boil, cover the pan and simmer very gently for fifteen to twenty minutes. Take it off the heat, leave to steep for another fifteen minutes, then strain and drink a small mugful three times daily.

Cleavers boosts the efficiency of your lymphatic system, that efficient drainage network that helps remove toxins from the body, and it's good news for the skin too.

Stock up with the ingredients from a herbal supplier, and give yourself a two-week course, cutting down on caffeine, alcohol and junk food at the same time, and drinking plenty of water.

And when I asked her to suggest an effective mix of detox herbs, I was not surprised to find both dandelion and nettle in it, as well as burdock - 'an esteemed blood cleanser and digestive stimulant,' she explains.

Burdock root, 5g; Dandelion root, 5g; Nettle root, 5g.

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Much of your body's garbage ends up in your urine, filtered by your kidneys.

Croatian herbalist Dragana Vilinac formulates herbal blends and tinctures for one of the UK's most popular herbal suppliers.

Here's her formula:

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by the heavy clogging food of winter.'

Herbalists include it in prescriptions for acne. eczema and psoriasis, as well as arthritis and gout.

Cut down on the Toxic Load Start by cutting down on the toxic load: alcohol, nicotine, coffee, fizzy drinks, too much sweet, fatty, additive-loaded food and household or cosmetic chemicals.

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This trio of roots, she explains, will enhance the elimination of wastes, help offload toxic wastes and calm any inflammation.

Leaves are milder than roots Dragana also suggests another version, for occasional use, which is quicker and easier to prepare.

Leaves are milder medicine than roots, so: dandelion leaf.

5g; nettle leaf, 5g; cleavers, 5g. This will help protect the body from the accumulation of excess fluid around the waist, under the skin, in the lungs in the form of phlegm, in the bladder,' she says.

To brew it, mix the herbs, put 2 teaspoons in a mug of boiling water, steep for ten minutes. strain and drink Nettles, cleavers and dandelion can all be gathered wild in the spring but make sure they haven't been sprayed, either with pesticides or by a passing dog. Pick only the youngest and freshest ones, and eat them lightly steamed.

In German folk medicine, the seeds of the impressive milk thistle were used for jaundice and other liver complaints.

Modern researchers have found that it can actually protect and regenerate liver cells, good news for overworked, hungover livers.

Take a ten-day course of it. Women on the contraceptive pill, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, should avoid it, though.

NEXT WEEK - SOAKING UP THE SUN

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POETS CORNER

The Bursting of the Bubble M

ay the eleventh has slipped past, the new speed limits in the urban areas are in place and the exasperation of drivers hangs in the air as a large puff of irritation. The new limits may or may not save lives but what they will certainly do is alter the cost of living as delivery drivers, doing what delivery drivers do, take longer to complete their journeys.

So, the motor car was hailed as a clever invention to make travelling quicker, nevertheless, because of the real danger of speed, or in some cases poor driving skills, what was originally called the horseless carriage has gone full circle and back to a speed no faster than that enjoyed before its development.

Perhaps there will be a return to the horse and cart as there is no number plate, therefore no recognition system to catch them for speeding.

It seems only recently, but probably over a year ago, that we were told that the tolls on Autopistas were to be removed, and so it was, not all of them, as some Authorities complained at the loss of revenue. However, we now learn that as from 2024, if we wish to use any major roads there will be a charge – no doubt the result and the cost of the pandemic. Of course, there is the other reason the loss of fuel revenue as we all turn to electric vehicles.

Elsewhere, and in the United Kingdom, the solidarity of which is being questioned by a little lady North of the border, despite the economics, she continues in her quest to be a separate country from England.

My thoughts, perhaps she wants history to recognise her as the person who broke up three hundred and twenty years of the Union, from which I understand the people of that land have done very well.

Meanhile, the Red Party of the people is losing popularity to the other Party of the people, and its leaders are weeping as it has lost some of its strongholds. No doubt Ramsey MacDonald the first Labour Prime Minister, who incidentally was Scottish, is turning in his grave.

I was brought up by a family that worshipped the Red Flag, although my thoughts are elsewhere and rather more flexible.

I understand the applauding and the shouts of approval following the first win, when the Labour Party finally made headway in the British General Election in nineteen twenty four, ousting all others and becoming the opposition party for the first time in the Government. It has been so ever since, either in total control or the party to criticise in opposition.

They should be applauded, the unions of that time, those who fought the upper classes for over a hundred years, since being accepted by the powers that were at that time.

They pushed forward with a dogmatic attitude before becoming the founders of the Labour Party, in their determination to form a recognised group capable of governing. It was sorely needed to improve the living standard of the people who were existing in squaller, no electrics or sanitation, only hovels to live in, hard work and very few comforts.

However, all bubbles grow and burst, and so it seems that is what is now happening to a party which grew with lightning speed since its creation just over a century ago, under the founders of the party. Those who could remember very clearly the horrors of the really tough days it flourished from, have moved on.

The replacement members have grown up in reasonable security and are rather more worried about losing what they have as opposed to trying to obtain what they did not have.

There is the question of colour? In my mind red is for danger, it has a violent influence.

Unfortunately, modern thinking and in some ways the woke culture, which does not go into the history of Britain, and as such very few remember, or even know about, the fight the working man had to make, to survive.

Now there is very little need for new legislation to bring hope and a better way of living. The regulations developed, that are in existence today to protect everyone, are thanks to the dedication of the pioneers of the early twentieth century.

I am not being political where my thoughts are; red is too aggressive and is not needed, as the population has laws and courts to protect and support all events and happenings, with a minimum wage to protect income.

Although there are people living below the average and poor, the fight for a reasonable standard of living is over, although there are still improvements that could be made.

The comforts of the home are real and obtainable, and very few people recognise what politics is, or what party is in power, and simply follow the mood in the street.

For the Labour party to recover, in my opinion, it needs to dispel its image of protecting the working classes and be proactive in promoting the country's values.

Facebook.com/percy chattey. Percy Chattey thrilling books are available Worldwide on Amazon and Kindle

Ciudadanos want a public Pet Cemetery in Torrevieja ilar Gómez Magán, the Torrevieja spokesperson for Ciudadanos, has proposed the establishment of a municipally owned cemetery garden as a final resting place for pets.

P

According to the councillor, "many people who have settled in Torrevieja for many years have pets" and there are very few places that can deal with the burial and cremation of their animals when they die."

"The planting of commemorative trees has environmental benefits, it will also provide a form of awareness, promoting respect for animals and there could even be benefits for tourism and the local economy," she said.

“There are hardly any suitable areas or sites in the province of Alicante where pets can officially be laid to rest", she said and as such Ciudadanos requests that the council identifies an area on municipal land for the foundation of a cemetery

forest, as well as the development of a municipal ordinance that regulates the service.

The burial of pets, which is prohibited by law if it is not carried out in an authorised area, are carried out illegally in some areas of Torrevieja.

The best known is the vicinity of La Mata cemetery, next to the natural park, as well as the natural park in Las Torretas, where many people have already laid makeshift tombstones and memorials.

I`m Wee I look up to you, coz you’re my World.

And because I’m really wee.

You are my everything, right now, Thanks for making me.

This World I’m in, is very new, And I’ll sometimes get it wrong.

I’ll do things, that I shouldn’t do, I didn’t get rules to bring along.

I’m not sure exactly, how to act, I may touch things, that aren’t mine.

But when it’s in my line of sight, To me...that all seems fine.

I may scream and shout and throw my arms, And make you cover your eyes, But please remember, I’m just wee, I’m just acting out my size.

It’s very frustrating to know what I want, And be told that ‘no, that’s wrong’ It’s why I sometimes misbehave, But please, just play along.

I won’t always, be this way, I’m learning all the time.

If you show me right from wrong, I’ll grow up and turn out fine.

Right now, I’m little, and growing up, I’m maturing really fast.

One day you’ll look at how I was, And wish this time could last.

So, bear with me, I’m just wee, You’re my everything, my Mum. One day soon, tantrums will end, They’ll soon be over and done

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

PAGE 18

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

CAR SALES The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2019 Ford 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 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 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.

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.

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 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

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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 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

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Monday 17th - Sunday 23rd May, 2021

“Facing the Future”

flying anywhere abroad in the near future?" Yes, thank you, I did check my bank balance recently. And my passport expired shortly after my optimism.

In retrospect, it seems pitiful to relate that their loot often amounted to less than they might receive in present-day dole money without getting out of bed. It is tempting to wonder how they might have felt if they found everyone else in the bank was wearing a mask -or, indeed, if a stern bank employee instructed them to stand behind a line on the floor and wait their turn. Imagine their dismay as their potential haul diminished with each withdrawal made by those ahead of them in the queue.

One prognosticator warned us that "we must relearn the old ways."

He wasn't wearing a wizard's hat and star-spangled robe, but he still managed to make me laugh. The old ways? What, walking near to others in the street? Buying non-essential goods in shops? Having my hair cut? I never did any of those quaint ‘olde worlde’ things very much anyway.

Another recurring favourite is, "You realise you probably won't be

Come to think of it, how I behaved pre-covid was pretty much how everyone else was later advised to act, i.e., stay at home and keep busy. In my case, I mostly sat in an armchair and read books or watched television programmes in which female detectives ran after male criminals in an athletic manner. The books kept my mind active if nothing else. And I did cut my own hair, which kept getting in my eyes. I was way ahead of my time for once, even though at 74 most of my time is now behind me.

demic will be blamed, rather than the previous government. Let's just hope that we don't end up with inflation like Germany's, when the price of a mug of beer once rose to 52 billion marks, and even then you had to return the mug to the counter.

One aspect of life that will be different -- or return to normal, if you prefer -- is that prices will go up steeply. Only this time the pan-

On the other hand, at least such outrageous prices will mean that the pubs are open again. Will the barmen be wearing masks?

LOS MONTESINOS SCHOOL OF MUSIC

José Vicente Pérez, Francisco Paredes and Los Montesinos School of Music band in history-making concert in La Herrada Quote: 'The concert was to celebrate the end of the State Of Alarm. Young people need to touch and hear again the applause of the public' - Mayor Jose Manuel Butron

By Andrew Atkinson LEADER EXCLUSIVE Conductor José Vicente Pérez, President Francisco Paredes and the Los Montesinos School of Music band entertained 150 people in a history-making concert in La Herrada on May 9.

"Thank you to everyone for coming in what is our first time in the history of the band.

Thank you so much," director José Vicente Pérez told The Leader.

"The concert was to celebrate the end of the State Of Alarm. Young people need to touch and hear again the applause of the public.

"The Los Montesinos band wanted to play for the residents of La Herrada at the start of this season," Mayor Jose Manuel Butron told the Leader.

"We sympathise with the families who have lost members during the COVID-19 pandemic," said Mayor Butron.

"It was a special occasion to perform in La Herrada - a very special occasion - which we hope will be the first of many. We thank everybody for their attendance," said José Vicente Pérez.

After the concert the Los Montesinos band received a two minutes ovation, which was followed by an encore: "The encore is specially dedicated, especially for all of you!," said José Vicente Pérez.

International Firefighters Day

The children in Spain have nearly 12 weeks school holidays during the summer. Any parent who has at least one or more child at school knows how difficult, and expensive, it can be to keep them entertained during that time - imagine if you had 24 hungry teenagers!!!

That's the task for the carers at the Elche Children's Care Home and the ECCH charity helps by providing the funds to take them on excursions at least once a week if possible to either the beach, fun park, cinema or even just out for a burger and ice-cream. Otherwise they are confined to the home for most of the holidays which can be quite stressful, especially in the hottest months of the year.

By Andrew Atkinson Congratulations was sent to the entire Corps, especially to the La Vega-Sur Fire Station in Torrevieja on May 4 - International Firefighters Day.

"Th event also reminds us of the events on 1 May, when Torrevieja suffered a colossal fire in its Laguna Rosa.

Sponsor a child during the summer

"The concert is very special, to be able to play in front of an audience once again - in front of our families.

Registration is open for anyone who is interested in becoming a member of the Los Montesinos band, with membership €20 annually.

"The day was instituted after a proposal was sent by email globally on January 4, 1999, due to the deaths of five firefighters in tragic circumstances in a wildfire in Australia.

Author David Aitken

The concert took place following the lifting of coronavirus restrictions by the Generialat across the region after lockdown.

Rapturous applause followed each orchestra melody, much appreciated by spectators that included British ex-pats and Spanish attendees.

"We congratulate all the members of this essential group for their great work and for their courage in each of their interventions. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart," said a spokesperson from La Vega-Sur Fire Station in Torrevieja.

PAGE 19

by David Aitken

In the olden days, before coronavirus, robbers used to wear masks when they made their way into banks to make off with the daily takings.

We are constantly being reminded -- as if we somehow knew already -- how different our existence will be in the future. Modern soothsayers would have us believe that in the midst of a pandemic they already know how life plays out beyond it. "We will probably still have to cover our faces at times," they announce, possibly pursing their lips, we can't tell behind their face masks. As if they are explaining rocket science. Do they expect applause?

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At this time of year, ECCH volunteers and supporters are usually busy organising and attending fund raising events to provide the money for the summer outings.

"Thanks to their great work, the fire was put out before sunset and could be controlled by these great professionals.

A spokesperson from Ahora Marina Baixa said: "We congratulate the Bomberos to acknowledge the important role played by firefighters and firefighting organisations around the world.

"The closest we have are the Bomberos Benidorm and Las todas Firefighters; Forestales Bomberos de la Dipu; Bomberos Benissa CBA; and the Bomberos Forestals Generalitat Valencia."

At the moment we have Garry Minton's sponsored 100 miles cycle ride on the agenda, which we hope you will support, but we also need to look for other ways of finding the money to ensure that we can give the children the summer fun they can usually expect from the ECCH supporters.

You can help by sponsoring a child for a day out for as little as €10 Or if you are a group of friends or club you could join together and sponsor a group of children.

PAGE 20

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Monday 17th - Sunday 23rd May, 2021

Gosden and Dettori eyeing Stradivarius Royal Ascot GOLD CUP GLORY

By Andrew Atkinson John Gosden trained Stradivarius is eyeing Royal Ascot Gold Cup glory on June 17 - under jockey Frankie Dettori - to become the second horse to win the race four times. Yeats is the only horse to do so.

BY ANDREW ATKINSON

Dettori added: "He's a character and wants to cover everything in the morning! His homework has been fantastic - as good as any other season.

"We tried the Arc route and things didn't go his way, but this is his bread and butter and I love riding him."

Gosden said of seven-year-old Stradivarius, ahead of a fourth Gold Cup bid: "The old horse has his enthusiasm still.

"I had every confidence the enthusiasm was still there. He's got the speed - he likes the Gold Cup distance."

After Stradivarius odds were clipped to 6-4 (from 7-4) Gosden said: "The Gold Cup will be tough, but as long as Stradivarius trains well between now and the Gold Cup, there's no reason why he won't put up one of his vintage performances."

In 2020 Stradivarious's steady pace lead to him pulling away, entering the straight, winning by 10 lengths.

After 18 months out of the ring Scott Fitzgerald returned with aplomb this month with a third round stoppage of Frenchman Gregory Trenel in Manchester, to remain unbeaten in 15 pro fights, including nine KOs. Frankie Dettori The five days Royal Ascot meeting takes place during June 15-19: 15 June - Queen Anne Stakes Day. 16 June - Prince of Wales Stakes. 17 June Gold Cup - Ladies Day. 18 June - Coronation Stakes. 19 June - Golden Jubilee Stakes.

Charlie Hills trained Battaash is noted in the King’s Stand Stakes. Irish-bred Battaash, twice a runner-up before returning to the winner's enclosure victorious in 2020.

Golden Pal and Bivouac are also noted. Trainer Wesley Ward has high hopes for Golden Pal: "He is the best horse I have ever worked with", he said.

Gosden trained Palace Pier goes to post in the Queen Anne Stakes, already a Royal Ascot winner, in winning the Group 1 St James’s Palace Stakes under Dettori.

Four-year-old Palace Pier faces Order of Australia and Alpine Star, noted contenders.

Gosden saddles Lord North in the Prince of Wales Stakes, aiming to become the fourth horse to win the prestiguous race.

Lord North had a comprehensive win in 2020 faces Aidan O'Brien trio Love, Mogul, and Japan.

The Lakeview Bar and Restaurant Calle Toledo 16, Ciudad Quesada 03170 are staging a Royal Ascot Ladies Day event on June 17.

Leader newspaper Chief sports editor and fromthehorsesmouth.info racing correspondent and tipster Andrew Atkinson will be judging the winner of the Best Dressed Lady competition.

Glass of Cava on arrival and Tapas served from 1pm.

To book your table: Tel 722 891 977.

"I've got my head together and I'm back in a good place now," said fellow Prestonian Scott.

Scot is eyeing Super-Welterweight division success in 2021 against potential former opponents Ted Cheeseman and Anthony Fowler under The Eddie Hearn Matchroom stable.

Prior to his supermiddleweight win over Trenel his last fight was when outpointing Cheeseman at the Newcastle Arena in October 2019 to win the British Super-Welterweight Title.

After what has been a season to remember for Rachael Blackmore - highlighted winning the Aintree Grand National in April and top jockey award at the Cheltenham Festival in March - she heads for a first ride in France's most famous jumps race, the Grand Steeple-Chase de Paris, on May 23 on Ajas.

The Swedish owner of Ajas, Ulf Sjoberg, led trainer David Cottin holding talks with Blackmore: "Kevin Nabet has decided to ride Le Berry and when I talked with the owner he was very keen for Rachael to ride Ajas.

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behaved. It’s in the past and I’ve got to look forward and move on."

Father of two Fitzy said: "That gives me extra motivation to go and create a nice life for them.

I’ve got to do it for them. I’ve got to fight my way back. "Hopefully the Cheeseman or Fowler rematch can happen before the end of the year."

Fitzy added: "When I was in a bad place a lot of that time was a blur. I was in a mental state. I was in a manic condition - and spiralling out of control.

"That's all in the past. Periods I don't remember at a time my life wasn't going very well. I now realise that I have to avoid not ending up in that hole again.

"I did think at times I wouldn't box again. Now with Anthony Fowler wanting to see a rematch, hopefully that will happen.

"I want to try to get my British Title back and move on from there to European and world level.

"In October after winning the British title I went a bit AWOL - then covid arrived," said 'Fitzy' who defeated Liverpool's Fowler in March 2019, it being Fowler's first loss.

"Cheeseman and Fowler. I beat both of them. Get one or two fights in and I’m ready for either one of them - Fowler especially. I’m confident I can beat him again.

Fitzgerald, 29, who went off the rails, self-confessing to taking cocaine, said: "I've got my head together and I'm in a good place now. I want to get my career back on track.

"After the win against Trenel I can now move on. I was dying to get back into boxing and I am fully focused I can do well."

"It felt great beating the crazy Frenchman Trenel and I’m feeling really good.

"Last year was a really bad one and I’m embarrassed by some of my actions and the way I

2014 Commonwealth Games Gold medallist Fitzy added: "I'm in a much better place now - you've got to keep the right people around you. The Matchroom Team and Eddie Hearn stood right by me. I appreciate that."

Fitzgerald comeback fight against Trenel after 18 months out

Trainer Wesley A. Ward saddles Campanelle in the Commonwealth Cup, open to three-year-olds.

Campanelle, joint-favourite with Supremacy, won the Queen Mary Stakes at Royal Ascot in 2020. It will be Supremacy's first race at Ascot underlined with three consecutive victories under his belt, including an impressive display at Newmarket.

Aidan O'Brien trained Mother Earth and Aunt Pearl are noted in the Coronation Stakes.

Aunt Pearl, who has not raced on British turf, had three impressive victories Stateside including victory in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf.

Entries include Potapova and Santa Barbara.

Few jockeys have ridden in the Aintree Grand National and the Grand Steeple-Chase in the same year. The Grand Steeple-Chase de Paris is one of nine Grade One races over jumps in the French season.

Rachael Blackmore heads to France

By Andrew Atkinson

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FITZY EYES FOWLER REMATCH Quote: 'After winning the British title I went a bit AWOL - then covid arrived' Fitzy

Dettori, who rode Stradivarius to victory in the Group 3 Longines Sagaro Stakes in April, said: "The dream is still alive. It's sensational to ride a stayer with a turn of foot.

"When Yeats won four Gold Cups you thought no one would ever get near it and now the dream is still alive."

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"She has shown she has huge talent - I don't see any reason why it shouldn't work out.

Seven-year-old Ajas who has raced in Sweden, spent the winter in Pau, and won two major trials in the spring, including a victory over Grand Steeple victor Docteur De Ballon in the Prix Murat.

"Rachael has shown she can adapt to any situation and the same is true of the horse, who is a good jumper and is a very straightforward ride."

Blackmore, who made history as the first female jockey to win the Aintree Grand National on Minella Times, spent time riding out for Guillaume Macaire in recent years.

"I was riding for Guillaume, when Rachael came over for a spell and I met her then. It's a great challenge for her, for the whole yard and for the owner as well," said Cottin.

"It's a lot of pressure having two leading chances for the Grand Steeple but the horses are running really well at the moment and I hope that continues until May 23," said Cottin.

Blackmore to ride in Grand Steeple-Chase de Paris

"Ajas is in great form, he has improved with every run this year and I expect him to be in top form on the big day," said Cottin.

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Monday 17th - Sunday 23rd May, 2021

Las Ramblas GS Results - wc 10/5 With no game to report for Monday due to heavy rain I thought I’d take the opportunity to give an update on this year’s Club Championship. With five rounds having been completed (leaving just one more to play) the competition is fierce.

Taking the best four scores so far into account Andy Martin leads the way in the men’s division with 152 points. Snapping at his heels with 150 is Dave Pulling and Paul Brown is still in the chase with 143 points.

In the ladies section Petina Murray is in front with 154, followed by Andrea Martin on 143.

Despite a disappointing round five Yvonne Phipps sits in third place on 136 points.

Wednesday’s Stableford saw some very good scoring. Marja Oldenziel just edged out Lindsay

Busters Golf Society at Vistabella Our May Stableford game was held at Vistabella , the course and greens were a credit to the greens staff which made our game so much more enjoyable, the sun shone, and the wind was moderate.

Our president Barrie Hopkinson made his return to the game after an illness and obviously, we were all pleased to see him, It won't be long before he’s back amongst the winners.

For our presentation we returned to our sponsor's bar “ Little Leias “ close to Consum in Quesada to be greeted by the staff who had prepared an assortment of sandwiches for us, we took this moment to welcome our new member Duncan

Forbes on countback with 39 points. Ron Phipps claimed the bronze with 38.

Alan Douglas picked up a tidy sum of euros as he was the only player to score a ‘2’.

Friday’s format was ‘Change Partners’. Winning with 86 points were Olga Douglas, Bryan Neal, John Shervell and John Dobson.

Just one point behind them were Paul Brown, Dave Pulling, Mike Brentnall and AnneMarie Weisheit.

There’s plenty of drama to look forward to next week as we will be teeing up for this year’s Singles Matchplay KO Trophy.

This week’s quote comes from none other than Arnold Palmer who commented, ‘I have a tip that can take five strokes off anyone’s golf game. It’s called an eraser’.

Pues hasta la semana que viene, Peter Reffell Roberts, then onto the results as follows: NTPs on holes two and seven Peter List, Terry Sharley won the eleventh with Ian Allison NTP on the fifteenth all NTPs had a choice of either wine or a sleeve of golf balls. In second place with a level par score of thirty-six points was Terry Sharley taking home a bottle of wine, but our winner on the day with forty-one points was Keith Loughrey who received red and white wines. Our soccer card draw winner who chose Watford was Terry Sharley.

Next up June 4th at El Plantio.

If you are interested in joining our small friendly society (it's free ) contact me at bustersgolfsociety@hotmail.com stating your phone number, and handicap. Barry Grinsell.

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PAGE 21

Lo Crispin GS Claret Jug at La Finca Twenty six members and one guest (11 year old son of one of our members) competed our 2nd.

'Major' of the season, the Claret Jug at La Finca Golf on 12th. May. The conditions for playing golf were good, except the wind, as it usually does, increased notably in the early afternoon. As usual also the course was generally in good condition and the greens fast.

Following the game we made the short journey back to the Lo Crispin Tavern, where we were supplied with Tapas and the day's prizes distributed.

The prize for the best Guest score, including those playing for handicap, was won by the son of one of our members Graham Ellis, Jamie Ellis with a score of 27 pts. off 36.

Although unable to win the Claret Jug, as he was playing as a guest of his dad Jamie achieved the best score of the day with 27 pts.off 36. He, like everyone else, played from the yellow tees !

1st. Place (and winner of the Claret Jug) - Barney Barningham 25 pts. off 23. 2nd.Place - Steve Price - 23 pts. off 16. 3rd. Place - Bill Croft - 20 pts. off 19 (on count back). 4th. Place - Steve King - 20 pts. off 11 N.T. P. on Par 3s - Hole 3 - Steve Price, Hole 6 Steve King, Hole 13 - Ray Hampton, Hole 16 Rod Pullen The 2s 'pot' was shared by Ray Hampton and Omer Kouer. Finally, the Free Game Draw was won by John Featherstone.

Our next game, an individual stableford and the Eclectic competition for 2021 is at Roda on 24th.

May.

By Steve Harrington.

Smiling Jacks Golf Society

By Graham Shaw At last we are back out and today was at Lo Romero.

A great hot day on a very good course.

It was good to see the players in the smiling jacks shirts and new golf hats courtesy of casas Costa Blanca south, thank you.

Nearest the pin on the 5th was Chris Tate.

In second place with 31 points was Blue Smith This month's winner was Dave Steward, 33 pts.

The next event will be Thursday 3rd June at vista Bella.

Thanks to the lovely Julie for the excellent salt and pepper ribs, BBQ chicken and sandwiches.

Winner of scratch card was Allan the painter.

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.

Around and About the Golf Courses – MURCIA - Update As reported last week when the Spanish state of alarm ended on the 9th May 2021 cross border travel between Murcian and Valencian communities is once again allowed opening up the excellent Murcian courses to hordes of golfers that live in the Torrevieja area and below is an updated summary of the current condition of those courses.

Roda - The course is in the best condition for many years and recently held a four day professional event receiving high praise from all the competitors.

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

UGolf Courses (Hacienda del Alamo, Mar Menor and Saurines - Mar Menor closed on the 6th May 2021 for extensive work on the bunkers on the back 9 holes and upgrading drainage and will remain closed for two months.

Saurines has been re-opened and is in excellent condition with a new pro-shop and chipping and putting greens and is open 7 days per week from 8.30am to 12.30pm.

Hacienda del Alamo is open 5 days per week from 8.30am to 12.30pm but is closed Monday’s and Thursday’s and as from the 14th May 2021 the clubhouse will re-open.

New Sierra Golf - The course recently made some improvements to the course in the area around the greens and these works were completed on the 6th May 2021 and the course is in excellent condition.

La Manga - Due to the lack of tourist golfers the West course has been closed for some month’s but golf can still be played on the North and South courses.

closed on Sunday’s and Monday’s.

GNK Golf Courses (Alhama,El Valle,Hacienda Riquelme and La Torre) - In an attempt to reduce staffing and maintenance costs during this difficult period without tourist golfers the courses at Alhama and Hacienda Riquelme have been closed and this situation will continue until further notice.

Altorreal and La Serena - These courses are in good condition and await the return of golfers allowed to travel.

All of the courses in Murcia that are open are in good condition and operating under the Covid-19 safety protocol but look forward to welcoming back golfers from not only other countries but other regions in Spain.

Hollow Tining Watch

Lorca - Due to the lack of tourist golfers the course is currently

05/05/21 Mar Menor (closed for 2 months), 10/05/21 La Manga west (closed until further notice), 10/05/21 Oliva Nova, 17/05/21 La Manga South, 24/05/21 Roda, Hacienda del Alamo and Valle del Este, 25/05/21 Lo Romero, 31/05/21 Campoamor

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

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

€98 €59 €123 €100 €214 €73 €90 €60 €48 €114 €59 €145 €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 from 12pm Two Green Fees + Buggy

PAGE 22

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Monday 17th - Sunday 23rd May, 2021

Spain top standings at International Petanca Tournament

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Competition Winners - SPAIN

The Las Salinas Petanca league International Tournament on 8th May was started with the throwing of the cochennet by Rosario Martinez Chazarra, who is deputy to the mayor of Ayuntamiento De Torrevieja.

She was joined by her colleagues and the introduction was in Spanish, English, French and Swedish.

The 6 countries participating were from Spain, Sweden, Belgium, United Kingdom, France and Denmark. The players were all competing for the top slot, but all games were friendly with lots of joviality.

Refreshments were provided by Denmark and the seating was plentiful to rest between games.

The presentation was held at the Municipal Theatre in Torrevieja on 15th May where “Europe Gala 2021” is being staged by the Torrevieja City Council. The winning countries, who were Spain 1st France 2nd and Sweden 3rd , will be presented with their trophies by the Mayor.

The rest of the Countries will receive a diploma for participating in the tournament.

We all look forward to the next Tournament in 2022. see the final 16 pairs channelled into either the Main or the Plate Competition, in which they will then hope to progress through to their respective finals, which organisers hope will be played from approximately 3.30pm.

RBL take Centenary Celebrations to the Emerald Isle

T

he Royal British Legion continues with it’s Centenary celebrations at the Emerald Isle Bowls Club next Sunday with the eagerly anticipated Centenary Invitational Open Pairs Knockout, and with a field including many National and Valencian Champions there will be no easy ride for anyone hoping to do well in the competition.

So, no shortage of top-class bowlers, and no shortage of sponsors either, with National and Costa Blanca based companies flocking up to demonstrate their support for

our veterans here in Spain.

As well as long-time supporters of lawn bowls, both Nationally and in the Valencia Community, Linea Directa, the Departments of Beaches and Culture at the Orihuela Ayuntamiento are both providing their patronage.

So too are local Torrevieja companies Guill Centro Auditivo and Costa Blanca Carers, along with the Leader Newspaper, which also continues it’s long association with lawn bowling and with the Royal British Legion.

Getting underway at 10am on 23 May, Round One will

Lunch is being provided for all bowlers, sponsors and guests, with the presentation of trophies and medals being made during the late afternoon, following the Plate and the Main Finals.

There will also be an RBL information stand on the day and a raffle will be held by the organisers, from which all monies raised will be donated to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

So, if you are at a loose end on Sunday, why not go along and support the Royal British Legion and take in some top class local bowling along the way. Admission is free and refreshments are available throughout the day.

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Monday 17th - Sunday 23rd May, 2021

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PAGE 23

Woeful Thader suffer humiliating defeat later the first of many laughable bookings, for what was pure accidental contact. Torrellano almost took the lead on 8 mins, following a well delivered cross from the left, but Llames somehow blasted over the bar from close range.

AT Torrellano ............ 4 CD Thader ................ 0

Abel Sanchez was dismissed in only his second game for the club

Unfortunately, Thader failed to learn from this let off, for only 2 mins later, Sergio did well to parry a goal bound effort, but Ibra was on hand to slam home the rebound.

Straight from the kick off, Nano put the ball in Torrellano's net, only for an offside flag to rule out the goal.

W

Apart from a couple of decent Quino efforts, it seemed only a matter of time before the hosts extended their lead.

Firstly, the opposition are no push overs (joint top), then there's the loss of a number of key players, added to the mix was an over officious referee.

When Llames put in a speculative cross on 32 mins, it looked a routine catch for Sergio, but alas, he made a pig's ear of it, and could only watch in horror as the ball squirmed out of his grasp and into the net.

But in reality, it was too many unforced errors, which ultimately proved Thader's downfall.

Manager Raul Mora made 4 changes from the previous weeks superb victory over Ilicitana.

Worse was to come only 3 mins later, for yet another teasing cross from the left fell nicely for Morales, who with oceans of space had time to poke the ball home from close range.

Out went injured pair Villa and Javi, suspended captain Lloyd, plus keeper Adrian. Sergio replaced Adrian in goal, whilst Juan, Alberto & Fran, were the outfield replacements.

52 mins he made light work of saving a firm Llames header from a corner. There appeared a slight ray of hope for Thader on 62 mins, when following a routine foul, Torrellano's full back Pablo was given a straight red.

It could have been 4-0 by half time, had it not been for a vital save by Sergio from the impressive Ibra.

Unfortunately, numerical advantage did little to change the games pattern.

hat a difference a week makes! Ok, there are mitigating circumstances surrounding such a poor Thader showing.

Quino was involved in the game's first incident, when inside the first minute, he was through on goal but adjudged to be offside.

Half time entertainment included watching aircraft about to land at Alicante airport, narrowly avoiding the floodlights, or was it just an optical illusion?

To add insult to injury, Thader's big striker was

Sergio was once again called into action, when on

On 75 mins, a cross from the right found sub Morina lurking at the far post, before stabbing it past a helpless Sergio. Even numerical advantage was soon to disappear, for on 85 mins Abel (playing only the 2nd game for his new club) was shown a 2nd yellow card, for what can only be

described as a travesty of justice. The poor guy couldn't believe how a nothing challenge could result in his dismissal.

But it sadly typifies how out of touch some referees are at this level, by failing to understand what are, and are not, cautionable offences. Sergio made up for his earlier bloomer, when on 87 mins he guessed the right way, brilliantly saving an Ibro penalty, given for a foul by Juan.

Next Sunday 23 May, ko 1130, Thader are back at Moi Gomez stadium. They will be looking to bounce back to winning ways, also record a double over visiting Murada.

Racing and Sp San Fulgencio share points in play-offs

By Andrew Atkinson Racing San Miguel hosted Sporting San Fulgencio at the Montesico Blanco on May 14 in the Valencia 1st Regional Group 10 play-offs, with Guille netting in a 1-1 draw in front of spectators at home for the first time since the easing of lockdown.

Sporting San Fulgencio equalised from the penalty spot to take a point. Racing pressed the visitors goal in a bid for the win, but Sporting's defence held firm.

"A point keeps us another step away from

SUDUKO SOLUTION From From page 14

TRIVEA QUIZ ANSWERS FROM PAGE 14: 1. Triage, 2. John L Sullivan and 'Gentleman' Jim Corbett, 3. David Bowie (Duncan Jones was once called Zowie Bowie), 4. Botswana (The republic of Botswana, to give it it's full name), 5. a. Sleeping Beauty, b. The Hunchback of Notre Dame, c.

Aladdin, d. The Little Mermaid, e.

Beauty and the Beast, f. Cinderella.

6. Stan. 7. Zsa Zsa Gabor. 8. Lech Walesa. 9. 115 lb (52.2 kg, 8.2 stone). 10. a. Take the long way home (Supertramp), b. Green green

relegation. We will continue fighting to close the season, fulfilling objectives.

"It was a great joy to see the fans in the stands once again," said RSM coach Dani Pèrez Williscroft.

grass of home (Tom Jones), c.

Daddy's home (Cliff Richard), d.

Better be home soon (Crowded House), e. Sweet home Alabama (Lynyrd Skynyrd), 11. Symposium.

12. The top five largest empires at their greatest extent: 1. British Empire - 33.7 million sq km (1923), 2.

Mongol Empire - 24.0 million sq km (1270 or 1309), 3. Russian Empire 23.7 million sq km (1866), 4. Spanish Empire - 20.0 million sq km (ca.

1740-1790), 5. Qing Empire, China 14.7 million sq km (1790). (The Roman empire made it to number 15

Fans pleased to be back on the terraces

By Andrew Atkinson Steve Dobson

Football fans were welcomed back to the terraces this month in the Valencia Regional Group play-off fixtures in the FFCV 2020-21 coronovirus affected season.

with 6.5 million sq km and the Portuguese Empire a respectable 10th place with 10.4 million sq km).

13. a. Planet of the Apes (Beneath the Planet of the Apes). b. The Ten Commandments. c. The Agony and the Ecstasy. d. Khartoum. e. El Cid. f.

The Greatest Story Ever Told. 14. W. C. Fields. 15. Phobos and Deimos.

16. Oxford. 17. a. Emerson Lake and Palmer. b. Alan Price. c. David Bowie. d. Kinks. e. Blur. f. The Doors. g. Kinks. 18. The Korean War. 19.

Heroin. 20. Benito Amilcare Andrea Mussolini.

Steve Dobson who watched Racing San Miguel gain a 2-1 away at CF Monnegre Muxtamel, told The Leader: "Well, what can I say? I missed football that much, even though the game was nearly an hour away, and I wasn't sure if I would be allowed into the game, I travelled up just in case.

"I made the right decision in travelling, thankfully. It was a great feeling to be back watching live football.

"The added bonus was a great game, despite ending up with 10 men, we got the result needed. It was a happy journey home."

PAGE 24

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