The Leader Newspaper 7 June 21 – Edition 870

No 870 Monday 7th - Sunday 13th June 2021

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

ORIHUELA POLICE DISMANTLE ILLEGAL COCK FIGHTING FARM

rihuela Local Police have broken up a cock fighting farm that was found hidden in a cave in the Sierra Oriolana hills, where the roosters were being bred for fights.

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With the assistance of municipal veterinarians, the police rescued about thirty

animals that they found deep in the mountains, in the San Miguel mount, close to Calle Miguel Hernández.

Most of the cocks were found to be in a poor state of health but all have now been moved to the municipal animal protection centre.

The operation took place last Friday when

agents learned that the roosters were being used to breed.

They were being kept in tiny cages without proper hygienic or animal welfare conditions, with all the specimens destined for dealers who would pump them full of steroids before using them to participate in illegal fights, often to the death.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 ILLEGAL COCK BREEDING ADVERTISING SALES

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The municipal veterinarian took part in the transfer operation which he said was carried out without harm to any of the seized animals.

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Andalucia and the Canary Islands, although the activity is known to take place in the Valencian Community.

Those responsible for the farm in Orihuela will now face animal abuse charges and, if found

Cockfighting is banned in Spain except in

guilty, will face up to a year in jail.

Charity Event raises Funds for Cruz Rioja

Bar team and to Lynne Smith who arrived with her own home made gateau which she kindly donated to the raffle. A big thanks to everybody who donated, money and gifts and who supported this event, which was the first venture for David and Lorraine after a very trying and difficult time due to the Pandemic. Just shows that people are desperate to get back to some normality and enjoy their lives.

It was a cockney 'knees up' without a 'knees up', due to Covid restrictions but never the less the recent 'Marina Bar' charity event "The Return of Cockney Capers" raised 462 Euros for charity.

Well known fund raisers, David and Lorraine Whitney, were over the moon with the result and with patrons deciding on a chosen charity the money raised is going to the 'The Cruz Rioja' who are actively helping the local community.

With two course lunch Raffle, Tombola, Prizes for the best dressed plus an "Eastenders" comedy sketch the afternoon exceeded expectations.

Thanks must go to Rita and Dave and their 'Marina The Time Out Bar in San Javier raised almost 180 euro from their Derby Day Race Meeting for the RBL

The next charity event organized by David and Lorraine at the bar will give people a chance to 'glam up' and put on their best evening wear for "Puttin On The Glitz", date yet to be conVolunteer Davey, David & Lorraine Whitney and Lara of the Red Cross

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Spain Government promises to put pressure on UK to territorialise covid data erritorialise the accumulated incidence data so that destinations such as the Costa Blanca and Benidorm can move onto the "Green" list on the United Kingdom traffic light system.”

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This is the request that Spain’s central government has been making to the United Kingdom for weeks, so that tourist areas with low incidence rates can be considered as safe destinations for the British market.

The Central Executive will once again insist on this, according to the Minister of Tourism, Reyes Maroto, who stressed that "we will ask the British Government again to carefully consider to our request.”

The Minister of Tourism took part on Friday in the Digital Tourist Congress held in Benidorm. She stressed that she will continue to "demand from the British Government, that regions such as the Valencian Community and Benidorm, with a very low incidence, are included in the green traffic light system."

The decision not to include Spain on the UK ‘Green list’ was made last Wednesday, with the outcome of the UK findings made known to the tourism sector by the British Ambassador, Hugh Elliot, during a visit to mayor Toni Perez at the Benidorm Town Hall.

The ambassador ruled out that British tourists would be able to travel before July; something that the mayor said “fell like a jug of cold water on him personally and on the city, since the UK is its main tourist market.”

The argument being made in Spain is that the British Government is basing it’s decision on the countries to be included on the ‘Green List’ on the incidence of the entire nation, and not of specific territories or communities, therefore, destinations with low incidence rates are being unnecessarily excluded, when they are perfectly safe to visit. And that is what the Spanish government says that it willinsist on once again.

The Minister of Tourism pointed out that "during the last review the territorial differences have not been taken into account." And that will be the Spanish requirement: that the data of the territories be considered separately, although for now the British do not consider this as an option. The decisions are made using only the national average of the country, so despite the good statistics being seen in the Valencian Community, they are not even being looked at or considered.

But, according to Maroto, work will continue on "everything that is necessary as Spain continues lowering the incidence of the pandemic" and, for that, "vaccination is crucial, with which we are on the right track."

She said it is group immunisation “that will give us certainty when the next changes are made to the British traffic lights”.

However, the Minister of Tourism stressed that, although British tourism is essential, the central government continues to "build loyalty with other markets." To do this, as of June 7 "we will allow all vaccinated people to come into Spain from countries outside the EU regardless of their cumulative incidence. “While we will always aspire to attract visitors from other tourist destinations, and to explore other markets such as Asia, and whilst they will not replace the British market, they will certainly complement it."

Prior to the meeting the Minister held talks with the Benidorm mayor Toni Pérez and the president of AMETIC, Pedro Mier, in the Mayor's Office where she signed in the City Visitor’s Book with a dedication to the hospitality that has always been afforded to her, pointing out Benidorm's contribution to tourism and its commitment to tourist excellence as the world's first certified DTI (Destinos Turísticos Inteligentes).

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DAVID BECKHAM INVESTS IN UK COMPANY LUNAZ David Beckham invests in UK electric vehicle company: Lunaz

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avid Beckham has joined the Barclay, Reuben and Dellal families in investing in the rapidly growing vehicle electrification company, Lunaz and now, the company, which upcycles and converts motor vehicles to its proprietary electric powertrain, has now announced an ambitious new growth phase following backing by a group of strategic investors.

In providing his support to the company Beckham said, “Lunaz represents the very best of British ingenuity in both technology and design.

I was drawn to the company through their work restoring some of the most beautiful classic cars through upcycling and electrification. David Lorenz and his team of world-class engineers are building something very special and I look forward to being part of their growth.”

The former footballer is joined as an investor by the Reuben and Barclay families and Alexander Dellal. They join founding investors; Navid Mirtorabi and CJ

Jones who are both entrepreneurs and investors in clean-tech startups.

Through his investment arm Beckham has successfully identified and backed fast-growth startups in sectors as diverse as eSports and athletic recovery products. He took a 10% stake in the company.

Since Lunaz started production of its first cars in 2019 it has drawn an entirely new generation to some of the most revered marques in history.

They have been compelled by the answer electrification provides to the key questions of reliability, usability and sustainability that surround classic car ownership.

This growth has accelerated as individual and hospitality buyers across the globe rebalance their fleets in response to increasing pressure from legislators to limit the use of high-emissions vehicles in city-centres.

The company established its global leadership in vehicle electrification through its work furthering the legacies of the most celebrated classic cars in history.

Bringing to market the world’s first fully-electric Range Rover, Bentley, Rolls-Royce and Jaguar

sports cars through its Lunaz Design brand.

It did this to much global customer and critical acclaim. The 1961 Bentley Continental Flying Spur by Lunaz was awarded by BBC Top Gear in its ‘Electric Vehicle Awards’ issue.

Beckham with David Lorenz and Jon Hilton

The company is headquartered in Silverstone, Britain's advanced automotive technology heartland.

It is the fastest-growing and now largest company by manufacturing space and employees within the Silverstone Technology Cluster.

Drivers leave their cars at home and opt for e-scooter In a travel behaviour survey, data released by Spin last week, shows that riders across Essex have shifted their travel behaviour since the introduction of the shared hire scheme. E-scooters are now part of Essex County Council’s (ECC) Safer Greener Healthier campaign and the UK wide Department for Transport trials and they are proving to be a popular alternative mode of transport for many in Essex already.

This “mode shift” is expected to reduce the number of cars on the road and deliver a significant environmental impact across the region.

More than three-quarters (82%) of Spin users have opte for a ride with an e-scooter instead of driving alone at

least once since the scheme was launched.

Furthermore, had the hire scheme not been available in Essex, one-third (31%) of the respondents would have used a car for their most recent journey instead of a

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Casaverde residents Visit Safari Park Residents from Guardamar’s Casaverde Care Home visited the Rio Safari Elche last week where they enjoyed the animal park and the European conservation centre.

The residents saw more than a hundred different species of animals as they enjoyed a day of outdoor leisure, accompanied by 6 relatives along with 7 staff from the centre.

In addition to seeing the animals in their different habitats, they were able to observe the different conservation programs connected with them.

Award for Orihuela coastal path The walkway that runs between La Caleta and Cala Capitán has been recognized by a Jury made up of the Environmental and Consumer Education Association (ADEAC), for its great heritage, historical and archaeological value.

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1000 donors save 2,300 lives at Alicante General Hospital The Transplant Coordination Service at the General University Hospital of Alicante celebrated the National Day of Organ Donors on Tuesday, a day they say that is very significant in commemorating this great gesture of solidarity by society and by families.

Santiago.

Since the start of the Transplant Program in the Alicante hospital, more than 1,000 people have donated their organs (54 of them living kidney donors), which has saved the lives of more than 2,300 patients.

They included the Director of Nursing of the Alicante Health Department-General Hospital, Juan Félix Coello; Dr. Carlos de Santiago; the head of the Liver Transplant Unit, the surgeon Gonzalo Rodríguez Laiz; Marian Miralles, Transplant Coordinator Nurse, and Miguel Rojo, AETHCV.

"Today we want to pay a heartfelt tribute to more than 1,000 donors and their families who, in the most painful time of their lives, proved to be so generous, giving life to other people", said the head of the Transplant Coordination Service, Dr. Carlos de

The celebration included the laying of a floral offering in front of the ‘Monument to the Donor’, which is located in the hospital complex, and in which representatives of the medical staff involved in the donation and transplantation process, all took part.

The teaching team has trained more than 3,000 health professionals from across the world

All this has meant that the Alicante Hospital has been one of the National and International Reference Centres for the training of Transplant Coordinators for more than 25 years.

Campaign to protect sea turtles

Valencia curfew lifted

In recent years, loggerhead turtles have scrambled up onto our local beaches to lay their eggs, where they were especially plentiful in Torrevieja during the summer of 2015, but, their attempts have been many more.

mendations to avoid disturbing the animal while it spawns or attempts to do so. He says that it is essential not to approach the turtle, not make noise or dazzle the animal and avoid photographing it with flash.

Designated as Blue Trails the initiative is to promote the connection of such routes that help to connect natural spaces of cultural and patrimonial interest.

In the Torrevieja Maritime District, from the mouth of the Segura river to El Mojón (municipal terms of Guardamar del Segura, Torrevieja, Orihuela and Pilar de la Horadada), there have been a total of 6 recorded events, two of which occurred last year, on the Orihuela costa, although neither of them were successful.

By calling 112 , a team from the Ministry of the Environment, the University of Valencia and the Oceanogràfic Department of Valencia will deal with such occurrences.

Ximo Puig made the announcement last week, in a ceremony held in Elche. The president said that the virus is still with us and that we are still in the grip of a pandemic and that therefore we must continue to act prudently.

One in four Valencians completely immunized

The month of June sees the peak period, in which turtles will venture onto the beaches at night to spawn. The period ends in October, where occasionally it is still possible to find baby turtles from nests that had not been located during the previous months.

Quick action is essential for the location of the nests and the protection of the eggs. It also allows the collection of biological data or their tagging with satellite emitters) that ultimately contribute to a better understanding of new breeding beaches that is taking place on the shores of the Mediterranean.

Regarding the obligation to continue wearing a mask, Puig confirmed that in places such as beaches or open areas "the legislation regarding masks will be eased sooner rather than later, because it has been shown that, outdoors and with adequate ventilation, they are safe places."

Everyone's involvement and the knowledge of how to act correctly can help consolidate Spanish beaches as a laying and breeding area for sea turtles.

Experts in the Valencian Community have already stated that with the numbers of people now vaccinated, the mask could be dispensed with in outdoor spaces, as long as there are no crowds and therefore the safety distance can be guaranteed.

The Valencian Community broke a record in Thursday when it administered 101,101 doses of the coronavirus vaccine in a single day.

The Community has now exceeded one million people with two doses of the vaccine against COVID-19, which represents 24.32% of the population to be vaccinated, a quarter of all Valencians.

Tto date 1,938,501 people have received at least one dose of the vaccine in the Community. By province: 226,160 in Castellón, 706,390 in Alicante and 1,005,951 in Valencia.

Used Car Fair back in Almoradí More than 400 vehicles will be on display in Almoradi next weekend at the 26th edition, of the Used Car Fair from June 11 to 13 in Plaza Almoradí Ciudad de Servicios The Councilor for Trade and Development, Carmen Berná, together with the president of the Almoradí Automobile Sector Association, José Mª Espinosa, said that around 400 cars will be on display over the weekend, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., from 8 exhibiting dealerships.

They will offer all kinds of cars, new, semi -new, kilometer 0, and second-hand, customized vehicles, with prices for all budgets.

Every year the Torrevieja Council carries out information campaigns for all users of the beaches, particularly for services such as beach cleaning that operates at night, and for Local Police and Civil Guard, so that everyone knows how to act correctly.

Antonio Vidal, Councillor for the Environment and Beaches, has said that this year, he has put up information posters at the main accesses to the beaches, showing the general protocol to follow, which starts with a call to 112, and that includes recom-

The Generalitat Valenciana has lift the curfew today, Monday, June 7, and will now allow the nightlife sector to be reopened progressively and prudently in the face of the slight rebound of the number of cases.

As for people under 60 years of age who are vaccinated with AstraZeneca and who are waiting to receive their second dose, it seems that the vast majority of them, over 90%, will opt for AstraZeneca to complete their vaccination, according to the information from unions representing the Local Police, Firefighters and teachers.

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ITV Inspection Tests to be ‘Beefed Up.’

By Andrew Atkinson

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ew compulsory ITV vehicle inspection tests came into force on June 1 in Spain – including the likelihood of vehicles failing with a damaged wing mirror.

From that date ABS braking systems faults will also become an automatic defect and subject to a test failure, rather than a minor fault notification as previously.

Damaged wing mirrors were previously classed as minor faults, including loose mirrors or even those hanging off, but that has also changed to an ITV fail.

New criteria has been introduced for emissions, with changes affecting electric cars with an extended battery life per charge, known as Range-Extended Electric Vehicles (REEVs), that also includes procedures for identifying motorcycles with advanced emission-control systems.

The vehicle logbook will now be held on the traffic authority's General Vehicle Register, identifying the test centre.

Spanish law requires the document be kept inside the vehicle at all times when it is in use. If a driver is unable to show it to police when stopped, it could in future result in a fine.

An ITV is to be carried out on all cars of four years old or over, every two years. On a car that is 10 years or older, the ITV is annually.

Notification of the ITV will arrive automatically by post. It is the responsibility of

From 1 June vehicles with broken mirrors could fail ITV tests those individuals with cars that have undergone at least one ITV, to ensure the vehicle passes it’s test before the previous one expires.

An ITV test pass sticker with the expiry date is given, to be displayed in the top lefthand corner of the windscreen. All previous stickers must be removed.

ITVs may only be undertaken at official, State-run, testing centres.

Oil and water levels and filters do not form an integral part of the test, but the driver will be notified if these are low or need replacing. The vehicle could fail if they are run dry, or in a very bad condition.

In failing an ITV the owner has up to 30

days to repair defects and put it through the test once again. A re-test fee is 50% of that of the initial fee, approximately €40-50.

Driving with an out-of-date ITV can lead to a €500 fine. Driving after a vehicle has failed, and before passing a re-test, will result in a fine of €200.

Other changes in the inspectors' manual have been made to cover the re-registration of cars with British registration number plates, when owned and used on Spanish roads by a resident in Spain.

Re-registration is part of a process of importing a vehicle. New fees for doing so could now be higher after Britain left the Common Market and the Customs Union on December 31.

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SAT ANIMAL RESCUE Cristi, is an 8 year old, Malinois X, who is happy, fun and very loving. Not good with cats.

Like all our adult dogs, she is fully vaccinated with passport, microchipped, sterilized, Bloodtested and treated for ticks, fleas, wormed and on Heartworm prevention.

For more info or an appointment (appointments only) contact the kennels in Dolores on 966710047 (leave a message) or info@satanimalrescue.com

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Online Spanish Courses for International Residents The councillor for International Residents of Orihuela, Mariola Rocamora, has advised of the new, and free, online Spanish courses for residents. The deadline for registrations is June 30th 2021 or till all available places are filled.

ORIHUELA MUNICIPAL CULTURAL ACTIVITIES WEEK COMMENCING 7 JUNE

Below, you can find the general information and registration form online: www.ciudadanosextranjeros.es/cursosonline.php

Venues in Orihuela and on the Orihuela Costa

FEATURES OF THE ONLINE COURSE: Lasts approximately 9 months 400 places available

to keep your place on the course:

Level test and Progression test.

Take the level test during the first week after receiving the access codes. If you fail to do so, your place will be CANCELLED without prior notice.

You will receive an email informing you that you have been accepted on the course, including access codes.

You can log on to the system in one of the 14 available interface languages Advantages: You will be able to log on to the system wherever you are, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

We recommend checking your junk/spam folder, in case our emails or those of the company that teaches the course do not reach you correctly. To prevent the computer from considering it as spam you must add the following email addresses: noreply@rosettastone.com; cau.avanzo@avanzo.com; tutor.diputacionalicante@avanzo.com to your address book

The course is adapted to the level of each student. You can also work off-line by downloading the units beforehand.

During the first month of the course, students have to complete a minimum of 10 hours of online training. Any students who fail to complete this minimum will be DISQUALIFIED without prior notice.

There is a tutorial (video-virtual) which explains how the system works (in Spanish, English, French, German and Portuguese).

You must do at least 50 hours of coursework over the duration of the course to receive your course certificate.

You will be able to customise the course according to your interests and progress.

REGISTRATION:

PC access is recommended. Mobile phones and tablets can be used, although not all features will be available.

Technical assistance in Spanish and English by email.

PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS: You must be a foreign resident in one of the municipalities of the province of Alicante. You must submit a copy of the certificate or registration form issued by your local council (those dated from March 2019 onwards will be accepted) when you register.

You must have access to a computer with the technical requirements as described.

You must have headphones or speakers and a microphone.

You will not be admitted if you fail to fill in all the sections of the registration form or if you lack the required documentation (census registration).

Due to the limited number of places, you have to do the following

Registration is free of charge and is done on a first-come firstserved basis on receipt of the registration form.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Until 30 June 2021 or until all available places are filled.

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

LITERATURE Wednesday 9 June 19.30 hrs. 7.30pm. Presentation of the book “Miguel Hernández y los poetas. Hispanic Americans and other Hernandist pages ”. María Moliner Municipal Public Library.

Orihuela.

MUSIC AND THEATRE Friday 11 June, 21.30 “Joaquín Reyes. Festejen la broma”.

Comedy Monologue.

Saturday 12 June Orihuela’s young singing talent, OTTO. Entrada libre Sunday 13 June. Orihuela Symphony Orchestra, "Young talents of Orihuela". Teatro Circo Atanasio Die Saturday 19 June. San Bartolomé Musical Union, "The tale of the jungle." Auditorio de San Bartolomé.

Sunday 20 June. Orihuela City Orchestra, "Hipano Cubana Music". Teatro Circo Atanasio Die ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN Friday, June 11, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday June 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. At the María Moliner Municipal Library.

Launch your own YouTube channel, how to organise content and promote your personal brand.

Saturday June 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. - "CanvaLovers" Resources and tricks that the Canva graphic design program makes available to its users to create posts for Social Networks.

ACTIVITIES FOR ENGLISH SPEAKING CHILDREN ON THE 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 8 June. 19:00 (Infantil) Summer is coming. With Demetrio Aldeguer Aldeguer Thursday 10 June. 19:00 (Infantil) Comic workshop. Be a hero.

Animation Tuesday 15 June. 19:00 (Infantil) The endless story (culture and the Arts)

You can find up to date info on Facebook at: www.facebook/playasorihuela

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HMS Kent docks in Alicante HMS Kent sailing into Alicante

come break after a hectic month at sea, before rejoining the Carrier Strike Group in mid-June.

the crew has all been vaccinated, the event takes place in the port itself, next to the frigate.

Commander Matt Sykes said: “We have had a really good week with the Spanish Navy working as part of NATO’s standing Naval Forces. We’ve been operating as part of exercise Steadfast Defender, which is NATO’s largest exercise this year. We’ve done some exercises off the coast of Spain with the ship’s helicopter and with jets from the Spanish Air Force, and now we are here in Alicante, and grateful to the Spanish to allow us to come here with them.”

“When we sail from Alicante at the end of the week with the Spanish flagship Méndez Núñez, we will be going out into the Mediterranean in support of NATO’s Operation Sea Guardian,” explained Commander Sykes. “This operation provides maritime security on the southern flank of the Alliance, so it’s great for the UK to be contributing to that.”

British Ambassador to Spain Hugh Elliott welcomed the ship’s arrival – the first Royal Navy vessel to embark in Spain this year. "I am delighted that HMS Kent is visiting Spain at the start of the deployment of the UK’s new Carrier Strike Group," said the ambassador.

The first visit to Spain by one of the ships from the Carrier Strike Group led by the Aircraft Carrier HMS Elizabeth

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ne of the most modern ships in the Royal Navy is in Alicante this week. HMS Kent, which is the first ship from the

Carrier Strike Group to visit Spain, is currently integrated in NATO’s Standing Naval Maritime Group 2, which is under Spanish command.

The Carrier Strike Group is the largest concentration of maritime and air power to leave the UK in a generation – 9 ships, 32 aircraft and almost 4,000 personnel working together to show the UK’s commitment to open societies and economies, and the benefits of free trade. It will visit over 40 countries in a seven-month deployment, from the Mediterranean to the Indo-Pacific.

The frigate arrived in Alicante after participating in different exercises with NATO allies, including Spanish ships, and the crew is now having a wel-

"HMS Kent’s participation in NATO’s naval grouping under Spanish command, shows the flexibility and compatibility of our navies, and our joint work as close allies on European defence and security.”

The ship docked in Alicante on Tuesday with a reception held the following day for the local authorities around the port.

Because of COVID restrictions, which require everyone going on board to take a PCR test as

Finca la Castellana Animal Sanctuary T he pandemic hasn't changed the number of animals we rescue on a weekly basis, it's actually increased them.

The greater numbers of pets are now coming to us from people who have lost work and had to return to their home countries, rather than the animals off the streets.

But it makes no difference to us where they come from, the fact is they need our help, and we need the public's help to be able to keep going.

As such we are having an Open Day on, Sunday 13th June from 12-3pm.

Live entertainment will be provided from Alfie G Music, along with a BBQ, drinks, cakes, tombola, and other various stalls.

It is only €2 entry and you can come and meet all our animals, a great afternoon out for all the family.

A day later, our third charity shop is opening in Los Dolces on Monday 14th June. Why not pop down for a complementary glass of cava whilst browsing the goodies that have been donated.

Don't miss out either on our 50/50 club, 200 tickets, €10 per ticket, half of the proceeds goes straight to the charity, the other half for the prizes.

This club runs quarterly, and the next draw will be on the 31st of July. All prizes are made directly into your bank account, so you can take part wherever in the world you live.

We have just launched a Charity Animal Art

Izzy came to us from Malaga where she was found tied up with her six babies.

She is nursing them along with six others that the police from Murcia brought to us, found in a bag.

Competition which runs from now until the 4th of October with judging taking place on 10th October.

There are some fantastic prizes, three categories, children under 10, €5 per entry, children 10-16, €5 per entry and adults €10 per entry.

Your piece of art can be a painting, drawing, poem, sculpture of an animal you have or know.

For an entry form please email the charity at: fincalacastellana@gmail.com or WhatsApp 603 251 004.

For any other information about our events, adopting a dog or cat, charity shops, or ways of helping us to raise funds, check out our webpage www.fincalacastellan.org or our Facebook pages 'Finca la Castellana' and 'Finca la Castellana Cattery'.

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Shaving is a man’s game.

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here are more than a few nervous milestones along the quivering pathway that leads from boyhood into manhood. The first kiss with a girl is a major signpost along that path - but there are others too. A teenage boy can be hit with a bout of gawkiness and self-consciousness as his voice ‘breaks’.

There are ‘rites of passage’ along that path, and in my youth, the big one here was ‘getting into the long trousers.’ This one doesn’t apply to today’s ‘nearly men’, as long trousers can be worn from the day they leave the nappies. Back in the day, it was oh so different.

Nobody wore a long trousers in primary school, except the master.

After leaving national school, it now became a question of timing.

Lads who were big for their age could take the big step a little sooner. I was small for my age, so covering my scabby knees wasn’t rushed. But it made no difference; big or small, for as soon as you got into long pants you could expect the jeering to start. ‘Who lifted you into them?’ became the regular salutation until neighbours and friends got used to the new you.

When I attended ‘finishing school’, ie; ‘The Tech’ in Castlepollard, there were only two first-year boys in short trousers – and of course I was one of them.

My parents bought me my first long trousers for a trip to Dublin when Joe Sherwin and I went up to do an exam for a position in Guinness’s. I felt great because nobody in Dublin, other than Aunt Kathleen had ever seen me in short trousers and nobody ‘slagged’ me!

The voice breaking, the first kiss, the long trousers – all milestones along the aforementioned path of life, but more than anything else surely the strongest claim on manhood has to be the first shave?

My first shave – no more than the other examples, was not a simple event. Therein lies a story and you are going to hear about it for its first airing now!

A subplot to my main shaving story is that when I was about twelve years old, somebody gave my father a present of an expensive leather shaving set. It contained a razor, a shaving stick, oils, creams and stuff to me that smelled great! Turns out that Daddy was never interested in any such accoutrements! His well-worn

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razor, a ‘Mac Smile’ blade and a bar of soap was as far into modern civilisation as he intended going! After a period with the set being moved hither and thither, my mother gave it to me and told me to keep it until I was old enough to shave. I found a good hiding place for the leather case and every so often I would root it out, dust it down, and take a smell out of the little bottle of lotion!

I commenced my bar-apprenticeship in Delvin when I was fifteen. My superior, Francie Campbell, was staying ‘in digs’ with Tom and Mrs Fay. I was working for ten shillings a week – but the best part of my job was that my boss, Bertie Merlehen, was paying for my dinner every day in Fays.

I was well fed by May Fay. She told me she was well used to young lads with big appetites down in Glenidan. I don’t know how much Bertie was paying May for my meals, but she definitely didn’t have much profit on me!

Yes … I know, Lads, this story is meant to be about shaving. Men started shaving between 60,000 and 100,000 years ago and they used sea shells as razors. I imagine the shells didn’t do as good a job as a ‘Mach 3’ and due to ‘beard rash’ on ladies faces the sales of Pond’s Cream must have soared during that period.

My first shave was a much smoother affair.

One evening Tom (‘Star’) Fay was shaving in front of a mirror as I finished eating. This was the first time I had ever seen, or heard of an electric razor. Tom obviously noticed how intrigued I was by the operation and he offered to ‘give me a shave’. He was a noted prankster anyway.

May was against it, telling him to ‘leave the young lad alone.’

Anyway, I was suitably excited by the prospect and offered up my boyish countenance. And that my friends, was how I had my very first shave!

When I told my father of how ‘The Star’ had shaved me, he said; ‘that will make your beard grow.’ I think they were the nicest words he ever spoke to me! I took out my three year old shaving set from its hiding place, and I waited … and I waited … and I waited … !

Don’t Forget Being young only comes once in life. The trick is to make it last as long as you can.

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 ... Bird’s Foot - Granny’s toenails Lotus corniculatus - common Bird's foot trefoil - is a member of the pea family which is known by many names, including Eggs and Bacon, Butter and Eggs, and Hen and Chickens, which refer to the egg-yolk yellow flowers and reddish buds.

as they age and are a good source of nectar for bees, butterflies and other pollinators.

Also known as Granny's toenails, due to the claw-like seed pods!

Fast growers and once established they can become invasive, which is useful if you want to cover a large area quickly. Prompt dead-heading will help keep clumps smaller.

A low-creeping, perennial plant with clusters of flowers and downy leaves that have five narrow oval leaflets, with the lower two bent back by the stem, so that the leaves appear trefoil, 3lobed.

Its yellow flowers appear from May, right through to September, taking on an orange hue

Flowers are followed by seed pods, that look distinctly like bird's feet or claws. The longlived perennials are ideal for gravel gardens, rocky sites, and meadows.

Easily grown from seed in early spring or autumn by soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours, or gently scarify before sowing shallowly in seed compost. Keep moist, but not wet, until they germinate, under glass until the

seedlings start to grow. Thin out when they are large enough to handle and pot on.

Gradually harden off before planting out in late spring or early summer. Alternatively, sow directly into a well-prepared well draining bed in a sunny position.

Common Bird's foot trefoil

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he Orihuela Costa and District Branch of the Royal British Legion have welcomed the Reverend Andrew Rea as their new Branch Chaplain, following the impending move back to the UK of Reverend Terry Baxter.

Andrew came to ordination as an Anglican priest towards the end of his working career.

He has experienced many Christian denominations and was a Methodist lay minister in England, Norway and Argentina. In Argentina he worked with Mapuche Indians for the Norwegian Methodist Church.

T

here are manies a bossman in my life, one being the owner of Fresh Radio in Benidorm and Fresh Radio Gold on the South Costa Blanca, Kev Woods. So this week I’ve decided to put Kev on the red carpet as there’s no better man

that deserves it.

Originally from Chesterfield in Derbyshire (Home of the crooked spire), Kev has lived in Spain for around 18 years, starting out on the Orihuela Costa, Torrevieja and now residing in Benidorm.

What made you want to become involved in the music and radio industry?

Music has always been my passion from an early age from listening and singing along to records with my Grandparents, recording the charts off the radio and making my own radio shows.

A

At the age of 14, I started helping my Cousin with his mobile disco's and instantly enjoyed it, so upon leaving school I started my own mobile disco doing private functions.

This also led to bar and nightclub gigs as well but it wasn't my main job, just like a hobby.

I made a life change, moved to Spain and decided to make being a DJ my full time job and starting working in many bars on the South Costa Blanca doing disco's, karaoke & quizzes.

The owner of one of the bars I worked in was joint owner of the local radio station and thought that I would be good on the radio and so from there my journey started.

I worked for several stations on the Costa Blanca as a presenter and station manager and one day I just thought I’m doing all the work for someone else why don't I start my own station...

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New Chaplain for Orihuela Costa RBL T

Kev meeting Ali Campbell & UB40

Q

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And so in 2015 Fresh Radio was born.

Q

What is your most memorable moment to date with work?

I have been very lucky in my radio career and I’ve been able to meet and interview some amazing artists including Ali Campbell from UB40 my favourite band.

A

Q

What are your plans for Fresh Radio and the future?

Fresh Radio is based in Benidorm and it continues to grow with an amazing listener base on the Costa Blanca, also with modern technology all around the world via our website: www.freshradiospain.com and now on smart speakers like Alexa & Google Home.

A

With the addition of Fresh Radio Gold on the Costa Blanca Gold we offer the listeners the choice of live presenters, competitions and a great mix of music on Fresh Radio and quality nonstop classic music and shows on Fresh Radio Gold.

Being owner of the radio stations keeps me very busy, but now I also have a 1 year old Daughter called Ellie so when I’m not doing radio stuff, I am spending as much time as possible doing things with her...she also loves music!

I class Kev as a great friend and have worked with him throughout the years, both on radio and on stage for various music events and shows.

He’s an extremely hard worker and I wish him nothing but the best.

He has been a probation officer and lead child protection trainer for Lancashire County Council. Andrew describes himself as ‘not your usual vicar’.

His autobiography Holy Inadequate (available on Amazon) explains what he means by this and is an interesting, humorous account of how to get things wrong!

He is a playwright and author, his latest publication (June 2021) Death’s Final Wicket is a spy thriller. He contributes every month to a magazine and has been on the radio.

Andrew and his wife Jean came to Spain in 2012. They live in Calasparra, Murcia where they have started a retreat centre for those who need quiet time in their busy lives.

The Olive Grove Retreat is set in beautiful olive groves and offers peace with time for reflection.

Andrew produces weekly worship videos with Jean and two members of the Team at the Retreat which have been well viewed during lockdown.

The combine uplifting music, prayer and a short message.

At the age of 74, Andrew says his life is just beginning!

He likes to view the olive groves and mountains, appreciating the beauty and trying to work out the meaning of life and what lies ahead. In the light of past experiences and mistakes.

And try to make some sense of the distressing world news that continually hits us all.

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D L O

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 869

ACROSS 3.

Endurance (9) 8.

Fat (4) 9.

Land (9) 10. Meditate (6) 11. Revolt (5) 14. Sufficient (5) 15. Repose (4) 16. Mock (5) 18. Check (4) 20. Pale (5) 21. Banal (5) 24. Dread (6) 25. Overlooked (9) 26. Bearing (4) 27. Cruelty (9) CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE? Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

Solution on Page 23

DOWN 1.

2.

4.

5.

6.

7.

9.

11.

12.

13.

17.

19.

22.

23.

24.

Glibness (9) Carry (9) Finished (4) Short (5) Snigger (6) Swarthy (4) Principle (5) Awaken (5) Torpid (9) Wandering (9) Grasped (5) Cheerful (6) Sum (5) Penniless (4) Marquee (4)

QUICK ACROSS: 1 Arch; 3 Attitude; 8 Tiny; 9 Windpipe; 11 Field-glasses; 13 Colour; 14 Ardour; 17 Incisiveness; 20 Exchange; 21 Dawn; 22 Preceded; 23 Else.

DOWN: 1 Artifice; 2 Conceal; 4 Triple; 5 Indiscreet; 6 Unite; 7 Even; 10 Adjudicate; 12 Presence; 15 Overall; 16 Single; 18 Niche; 19 Help.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Must; 3 Trifling; 8 Dial; 9 Increase; 11 Inverse order; 13 Hasten; 14 Mingle; 17 Absolute zero; 20 Lacrosse; 21 Maim; 22 Rosemary; 23 Pair.

DOWN: 1 Midnight; 2 Scarves; 4 Ranger; 5 Fire-raiser; 6 Image; 7 Grew; 10 True to form; 12 Reformer; 15 Grenada; 16 Cursor; 18 Backs; 19 Slur.

ACROSS 3. Slight possibility of opportunity to be away? (3-6) 8. Something attractive appears to be a stalemate (4) 9. With all meals provided, the directors obviously don't go hungry! (4,5) 10. With idiot removed, class always seems bright! (6) 11. Healthy noise (5) 14. So the ones there ... (5) 15. ... have some idea, doubtless, but no life (4) 16. Sober gowns (5) 18. A portent for workers joining circle (4) 20. Stop egghead appearing in suit (5) 21. Have a feeling for the meaning (5) 24. Minister repairs spire on temple initially (6) 25. Obtain some furniture which is accessible (3-2-4) 26. Mark left by injury to head of security by vehicle (4) 27. Change neat arrangement of every other one (9)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. Which kind of ball follows the US President everywhere he goes?

2. According to UNICEF, which African country has the most land mines in the world? a. Angola b. Egypt c. Chad d. Somalia 3. Which million selling model with plenty of 'horsepower' was Matchbox's first sales success in the 1953?

4.The Althing, the world's oldest surviving parliament, is found in which country?

5.Who was involved with the Australian surfer Blaine after splitting up with Ken Carson?

6. Marion Crane is the tragic figure in which cult horror film?

7. Who wrote Status Quo's hit song 'Rockin All over the World'?

8. The Danube river runs through which four European capitals?

9.The scientific name for which animal means 'one who walks swiftly, a camel marked like a leopard'?

10.The following words are from songs with 'Rain' somewhere in the title. Can you name the song? a. If the rain comes they run and hide their heads, b. I feel it's raining all over the world, c. I never meant to cause you any sorrow, d. Like the guy whose feet are too big for his bed, e. Clouds of mystery pourin confusion on the ground

DOWN 1. Cautioned about schooling (9) 2. Produce a very brief record as instrumentalists do? (4,5) 4. A number mostly belonging to us (4) 5. Prisoner's room has nothing but an instrument (5) 6. Be rich as a result of a leap? (6) 7. Spiritual charge to heal (4) 9. There aren't as many in real life, we realise (5) 11. Bears a twisted sword (5) 12. Initially not correcting errors after ten years results in moral decay (9) 13. Coming to rue awfully exciting experience (9) 17. Get points for music for all parts (5) 19. Deny entry after direction (6) 22. Health resort in the country (5) 23. Came a cropper on rocky hill (4) 24. Pig-headed group in conspiracy (4)

( A n s we r s o n p a g e 2 3 ) 11. Who was the first man to win the Academy Award for best actor two years in a row? a. Clark Gable b. James Stewart c. Charles Laughton d. Spencer Tracy 12.What name was given to the hundreds of thousands of people who helped clean up and contain the Chernobyl nuclear disaster?

13. Jack, Lou, Bill, Mac, Fred, Curl and Clyde are some of the characters mentioned in which 1960s hit song?

14. Plus or minus 1, how many time zones are there in China?

15. In 2011, a Formula 1 race was held in which country for the first time? a.

India b. Mexico c. Ireland d. Japan 16. The heir apparent to the French Throne between 1350 and 1791 was given which title?

17. What is the largest lake in the world with an animal in its name?

18. The name of which very popular edible product translated means 'twice cooked'?

19. Which male tennis player lost a record 4 US Open singles finals in 1976, 1978, 1980 and 1981?

20.Which 'Great Soul' was edited from the final version of the album cover Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band?

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President Puig promised the investment by 2023

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Barceló pours cold water over San Juan beach celebrations.

The Minister of Health, Ana Barceló, has categorically rejected this Wednesday that parties and celebrations may be held on 24 June, on the occasion of the night of San Juan .

Generalitat to invest 658 million into medical infrastructure

T

he Generalitat will build six specialty centres, and refurbish 22 hospitals and 50 primary care centres. The announcement was made on Wednesday by the President Ximo Puig who promised an investment of 658 million up to 2023 to improve the health infrastructure of the Valencian Community The Minister of Health, Ana Barceló, was also at the announcement as the president highlighted that this plan constitutes "a fundamental guarantee to quality, universal and free public health, so that Valencian women and men, regardless of their social or economic situations, have a guarantee to the highest quality healthcare" .

The president explained that the health system is based on three pillars: health personnel, infrastructure, and technology. Thus, with regard to health personnel, he pointed

out the need for a structural increase to take place, so that this pillar "is as robust as possible" because "the most important thing in the system are its medical staff". He went on to reiterate the recognition and appreciation of the entire society for the "enormous effort made during the pandemic."

Regarding infrastructure, he has indicated that through the plan presented, which will have an expected duration of two and a half years, the Consell resumes the improvement plan that had been postponed due to the pandemic .

On the third pillar, the president stressed that the commitment to technological innovation "is allowing extraordinary progress in the training of professionals to solve many current challenges."

The Plan contemplates a total of 96 actions in health infrastructures of the Valencian

Community, of which 58 will be carried out in primary care centres and 38 in hospitals, with an investment of more than 658.3 million euros, which represents practically quadruple the investment made in the period between 2012-2015.

Of the total number of actions, 34 will be carried out in the province of Alicante, with an investment of 224.7 million euros, that is, 37% of the total investment; 22 in Castellón, with 73.3 million euros, which represents 12% of the investment; and 40 actions in the province of Valencia, which will have 340.3 million euros, that is, 51% of the investment in the plan.

Specifically, the reform and / or expansion of 22 hospitals will be undertaken, as well as the improvement or construction of 50 primary care centres and the construction of 6 new specialty centres, which will add 1,206 beds and 48 new operating rooms.

In answering questions from journalists, Barceló, said that there will not be the typical mass celebrations on the beaches. “If we ask for control so that we can continue to enjoy the beaches, we are not going to ignore these measures to celebrate the night of San Juan. It will be necessary to use the same criteria and the same measures”, she said, adding that the measures needed to regulate crowds of people on the beaches that night will be coordinated with municipalities.

Last year measures were put in place to avoid crowds on the beaches on this traditional celebration. An example was the city of Alicante, where the City Council deployed a hundred local police officers and volunteers from the Civil Protection group, who controlled all the beaches and coves even fencing many of them off, to avoid celebrating bonfire traditions in the sand.

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POETS CORNER Trust (Obsolete word)

I

am just an old fashioned guy from East London – well West Essex really. Talking about events in the past is boring, but I wanted to refer to business and trust, when at that time, all those years ago, making a deal didn’t even need a handshake, one’s word was enough.

If you did not comply with what had been agreed, then life would be very uncomfortable for that person as the word spread of their dishonesty. And no doubt it was the same elsewhere.

It was also a time when, to swear in front of a woman in public you would probably get your nose punched … I digress.

All that has changed although in some ways the old system of trust still exists. In an auction situation for instance, during the bidding, when the hammer falls, the last person to make a bid has bought the item.

Beforehand, of course, the person bidding would have had the opportunity to see what was for sale.

There is a recent tale in the news media where a person, who has a beautiful Dutch name, had an old Land Rover, one of the very early ones, and

prior to her recent death)

The owner of the vehicle seeks legal advice concerning the higher price, and whether he needs to pay it. He is told by the solicitor that because he did not use the word ‘accept’ in his reply then there was no contract and it would take a court case to determine if there was. So be careful if you have not qualified the arrangement and used the word ‘accept’ then you have not got an agreement.

I was just a pup when we first met,

In the old days that decision would have been said as ‘a job for the boys’ and no doubt now the ‘girls.’

There is a fellow called James, and no doubt similar to many other people, he was trustily attaining commemorative coins in various denominations from the Mint. They had been supplied to him through an Air Miles Account and had accrued enough to the value of twenty nine thousand pounds worth.

That seems to me to be a lot of coin, also more than a few journeys travelling by air. Anyway, he trots off to the HSBC Bank to credit his account with them and they refuse. He was surprised as when he had acquired them, they were dispatched from the Mint as ‘Legal Tender.’

Ah, but ’Legal Tender’ does not mean you can take a commemorative coin into a shop and spend it. No, no, legal tender does not mean that at all, it is a term used by lawyers meaning the settlement of debt.

The Mint is an individual company and makes coins for a profit, on its own website it explains: 'Legal tender has a very narrow and technical meaning in the settlement of debts. It means a debtor cannot successfully be sued for non-payment if he pays into court in legal tender’.

So, there you have it a legal phrase being used for the sale of goods, because these coins have no value, only in the weight of the metal used as scrap. No trust there then!

In the meantime, with a further threat to free speech and actions, two of our elderly, female, trusted Members of Parliament, are seeking a law to prevent the male of the species from whistling or catcalling at women - they may achieve tackling the sound that the male makes but I doubt if that will change the caller's thoughts.

Facebook.com/ percy chattey – Percy Chattey Books are available through Amazon and Kindle

Changing the way we face the future Quote: 'We will continue working to get ahead and leave no one behind' - Mayor Butron

By Andrew Atkinson Since the 2019 elections PSOE win, with Los Montesinos mayor Jose Manuel Butron returning the best historical results, little did we all know what the future held with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic and one of the worst Dana's on record.

"What we did not expect was a Dana and a health and social crisis that has made us change our way of facing the future," said Mayor Butron.

The Gota Fria flooding caused devastation throughout the Vega Baja regions - with some people losing their lives, homes and personal belongings - in what was the biggest to hit Spain

This poem is dedicated to his departed owner

he contacted a firm to refurbish it. This is in two thousand and sixteen.

The garage sends him a quotation for fifty five thousand Euros. The Dutchman sends an email as a reply to tell them to carry out the work.

The final account arrives two years later and another 40k has been added to the original figure.

in 140 years.

Over 3,500 people were evacuated from their homes in the Vega Baja as the River Segura burst its banks.

More than 80 roads were closed, including the AP7 motorway in Pilar de la Horadada, one of 11 main networks.

Pedro Sanchez (pictured) visited Orihuela and Los Alcazares amongst the worst areas affected by floods.

Spain and Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea donated €200,000 to the Gota Fria Disaster Fund in 2019.

Born in Madrid, De Gea has strong links to the area, his father having been born in Redovan and

from an old dog named Freddie (who passed away

A message from Freddie.

I loved you from the start.

You picked me up and took me home, and placed me in your heart.

Great times we had together, We both shared all that life could throw.

But years passed all too quickly, My time and yours has come to go.

I know how much you miss me, I know your heart is sore.

I see your tears that fall, when I’m waiting at the door.

You always did your best for me, your love was plain to see.

For even though it broke your heart, you set my spirit free.

So please be brave without me.

One day we’ll meet once more.

For when your called to heaven Mum, I’ll be waiting at the door.

By William Chainey

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

brought up in Orihuela, two of the municipalities that were worst hit by the floods.

The COVID-19 pandemic crisis followed, that has seen us witness the terrible deaths of loved ones and others who have suffered during the last 16 months, along with hundreds of thousands of job losses.

"We will continue working to get ahead and leave no one behind," said Mayor Butron.

The ongoing battle against the coronavirus outbreak lead to a vaccination programme across Spain, with Los Montesinos amongst those acting in a caring manner that saw disinfection spraying of the town to safeguard the population.

Active measures by the Ayunmiento has seen

COVID-19 cases reduced to zero in recent weeks.

"Thanks to the team that accompanies me and to all the people who make it possible," said Mayor Butron.

"Thank you for your love and respect. I am grateful," he added.

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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.

HELEN...

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 next meeting of the Royal British Legion Orihuela Costa and District Branch will be held at 7 for 7.30 pm on Thursday 17 June at the Olympia Pool Bar in Mil Palmeras. Everyone welcome, incl non members. Seated aerobics and a free buffet. 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

637 227 385

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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La Zenia. Casa 77 (Close to Consum).

German spoken.

Brasilian. Slim.

Beautiful body. Elegant.

Very private in La Zenia.

Casa 77 (close to Consum).

Tel. 665 736 488

Tel. 604 111 457

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The Bowen Technique was pioneered by Thomas Bowen, born in Geelong, Australia.

A

fter working in miscellaneous labouring jobs as a young man, he developed a great interest in massage and body work and spent time observing football trainers and others involved with sports.

Monday 7th - Sunday 13th June, 2021

It looks at restoring balance to the body by a series of very gentle rolling type moves made with the therapist´s fingers and thumbs over precise areas of the body.

A unique feature of the Bowen Treatment is that after a series of set moves, the therapist leaves the room for a couple of minutes.

This prompts the body to reset, repair and rebalance itself.

The Bowen Technique does not rely on hard pressure, it is a very light touch therapy and there is no twisting, bending or awkward repositioning of the client during the treatment. It can be performed

If you feel that the Bowen Technique is what you need and would like to book

PAGE 19

through light clothing.

A key element of the Bowen Technique so that we work holistically and do not treat a specific condition but look at the person as a whole.

WHAT CAN BOWEN SAFELY TREAT. THE ACTUAL BOWEN TREATMENT

By the time he was in his early 40´s, this gifted man had established a full time practice in remedial therapy using the technique he developed. It is amazing at the effectiveness of this simple and gentle “hands-on” therapy.

The Bowen Technique is suitable for everyone, from the tiniest of babies, to athletes and frailest of adults.

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With Bowen Technique, I am happy to work either directly onto skin or through light clothing.

Common presenting problems include back and neck pain, knee problems, sports injuries, RSI, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow and respiratory problems.

Conditions such as chronic fatigue, hayfever, headache, kidney problems and problems requiring lymphatic drainage have responded favourably to Bowen Technique.

The first session will consist of a consultation during which I take notes about you, your lifestyle, conduct any assessments required and then carry out the Bowen Therapy.

Treatments are normally about an hour. Every person is unique and therefore treatments and times are tailored to the individual.

Some people use the Bowen Technique as a means of stress management and health maintenance, seeing their therapists regularly 24 times a year.

An initial course of three treatments is recommended to see how the client responds to treatment, usually at weekly intervals. Some clients will experience instant pain relief, whereas with others the body may respond over the next few days, but normally even chronic conditions will see relief with an initial set of three treatments.

The Bowen Technique also addresses many other conditions and it is regarded as safe and effective for people of all ages.

It is recommended that clients are not receiving other physical therapies whilst being treated with the Bowen Technique.

an appointment, or ask for information, then contact CHRISTINE QUINLAN,

BODY HARMONY in LA MARINA. Tel 966 795 103

Email bodyharmony44@gmail.com Website. bodyharmonytherapies.co.uk.

ARE MARTIANS IMMUNE by David Aitken I f Martians landed on Earth in the midst of the present pandemic, what would they make of us?

I can already see you looking askance at those words, of course.

Because why on earth (so to speak) would a superior race capable of travelling 34 million miles through space -- I'm assuming they would set off when the Red Planet was nearest to us, in order to save petrol -- want to risk their health like that?

Also, as far as scientific exploration was concerned, their expedition would be a waste of time. 2021 would give them a totally false impression of what life on Earth was like, except in 2021.

Studying us from behind their visors, our visitors would see a stayat-home people who rarely mingled, so antisocial that even when they did leave their houses they hardly touched one another. No hugs, no handshakes, just sometimes the rather provocative display of elbows. And how did they recognize each other, when they all wore masks, except for the presumably disobedient children?

Paradoxically, while choosing to isolate themselves from the outside world, the earthlings seemed obsessed by it, judging from the amount of time they sat in front of electronic boxes that streamed images into their living space.

Many of them donned spandex outfits and performed dance-like movements in front of their screens, ably illustrating that spandex was an anagram of expands.

Very few people on this strange blue planet seemed to be in gainful employment although many of those same people appeared to have a source of income.

Eavesdropping unseen, the Martians would hear postwomen saying they had once been hairdressers, and streetsweepers claiming to have been dentists.

The items of online food shopping observed by the aliens would make them realise why the dentists had given up.

The inhabitants of the third rock from the sun didn't seem to be very healthy people: their hospitals were overcrowded and their public vaccination centres were in constant use.

The same individuals were sometimes seen to need revaccination within the space of a few weeks. They acted like a sickly race of weaklings who shouldn't be difficult to conquer. But who would want them? Or their planet?

I suppose our plague-stricken state might save us from invasion, although it is perhaps timely to remember Michael Rennie's warning in The Day the Earth Stood Still: "Klaatu barada nikto!" Schools ought to teach future generations how to converse with spacemen, just in case.

A final thought: could Martians be immune to coronavirus? Unless they are, we might wipe them out, and there wouldn't be any Martians.

That would really be one in the eye for science fiction writers, wouldn't it?

PAGE 20

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Monday 7th - Sunday 13th June, 2021

Vistabella Charity Fancy Dress

Vistabella held a Charity Fancy Dress Fun Day which was well attended and was enjoyed by all who attended. The day started with a Chicken and Egg style competition where everyone played three lots of 6 ends with names drawn out of the hat for rinks and positions, thus mixing up veteran and new bowlers.

This gave everyone the chance of playing a position they had not played in before with the more experienced players mentoring the new ones. Instead of a chicken being the prize for the player with most points totalled over the 18 ends, a large bottle of

Cava was given, as was with the player with the least points instead of a packet of eggs.

A break after the second round of 6 ends where a glass/glasses of Sangria, either with or without alcohol, was enjoyed followed by a parade for the best dressed man and woman fancy dress.

The final 6 ends were then played followed by the presentation of prizes for the Fancy dress and Bowls competition.

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were: Derek Howe dressed as a female Hula dancer and Sharon as a Bumble bee.

LA SIESTA BOWLS

The club wish to thank Carol Thorpe for all the efforts in organising the weekly league which concludes next week, the weekly Chicken and Egg competition and finally the Fancy Dress Fun Day.

Members Run Club by Alan Carr

Vistabella Bowls Club is sponsored by: Oneway Services, Serenity Insurance, Carpet Heaven. The Handyman – Property Maintenance, Lisa James – Fitness Trainer, Pilate, Yoga, J&M Property Installations & Maintenance Services.

How about coming and have a go at bowling we would be pleased to see you. We can arrange a free session and lesson . You could get hooked it’s a fabulous game and a very sociable one you’ll meet lots of new friends.

Results: Bowls Competion – Stan Dibble max points, Alice Howe the booby prize.

Also bowlers are most welcome, and we are looking for new members. Contact Club Captain: neilburrows@gmail.com (Neil Burrows) or Membership Secretary (Derek Howe) derekthowe@gmail.com.

The winners of the Fancy Dress Parade

Reported by : Montestan

La Siesta Bowls, the members run club, have been continuing with club Internal competition and organised games in the absence of League games which have also included rollups on Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays with Chicken & Egg on Wednesdays 1.30 for 2pm.

On the 29th of May La Siesta Bowls Club Championship games were finally completed, a bit later than normal, with the winners of the following categories being; Mixed Rinks – Dawn & John Taylor, Norman Adcroft with George Richardson. Mixed Trips – Dawn & John Taylor with Harold Charleton. Ladies Pairs – Irene Laverick & Sue Jordan. Men’s Pairs – Pat Reilly & Mike Edwards. Mixed Pairs – Wendy & Alan Ralph. Ladies Singles Judy Carroll. Men’s Singles – Ken Stringfellow. Mixed Singles – Sue Jordan.

Whilst all these games were in progress the restrictions and guidelines imposed by the LLB & the Spanish Government have been our priority at La Siesta for the safety of all members who have been attending the club.

Anyone interested in joining La Siesta Bowls Club, run by the members, are welcome to call the Club President (George) or Club Captain (Wendy) who will be pleased to give you any information you may require to assist you in making that decision.

We hope to see new members in the very near future and hopefully will see the return of the League games later in the year.

La Marina Bowls Club

George Richardson 865 772 498

The last weekend of May brought us a true festival of bowls, although for Peter Parsons it was more like a marathon playing in all 5 sessions.

Friday morning however started very disappointing with heavy rain and a waterlogged carpet. The session had to be delayed until the afternoon when the weather and carpet had dried out completely. I cannot obviously report on all the games so I have only listed the results, but you can see for yourselves how nail biting some of these games were. Mens Triples – Dave O'Sullivan, Garth Slater and Alex Morrice versus Len Daniels, Dave McGaw and John Rae 18-13.

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Wendy Ralph 633 068 399

PETANCA IS BACK

by Susan Ward

sus Mike Smith & Mike Stone 30-13.

Whyte 21-19.

Mixed Triples – Janet Parsons, Tom Spencer, Peter Parsons versus Irene Mangan, Marliyn Fryatt, Alex Morrice 17-15

Ladies Pairs – Irene Mangan & Maryiln Fryatt versus Anne Stone & Carol Smith 25-16.

Sunday afternoon finished with the 2 singles finals, presentation of trophies and a buffet for all to enjoy.

Drawn Pairs – Alex Whyte & Peter Parsons versus Janet Parsons & Alex Morrice 17-16

Pensions Urn – Peter Parsons versus Don Fowkes 21-9.

Mixed Pairs – Janet & Peter Parsons beat Anne & Mike Stone 20-15.

Ladies Singles – Irene Mangan versus Maureen Kidd 16-5 (conceded).

Mens Pairs - Len Daniels & John Rae ver-

Men's Singles – Peter Parsons versus Alex

Our picture shows our trophies along with our President John Morgan and our Competition Secretary/Organiser Don Fowkes. Our thanks go to all competitors, markers, umpire and spectators for a very enjoyable weekend.

Hutchinson takes Carp-R-Us Spring Series The final match of the Carp-R-Us Spring Series was fished on the Eden stretch of the Rio Segura.

This often maligned stretch can produce decent weights when conditions are right and, on most occasions, nearly everyone catches some fish.

Lately though it has been strange, very few fish are seen ´topping´ and the mullet that used to be commonplace seem to have vanished (along with the blue crabs, thankfully).

Unfortunately, there are still plenty of terrapins around.

For the second match running, Willy Moons ran out winner with 7.10kg caught from peg 14 using feeder and pellet tactics. He finished well ahead of Doug Hornblow on peg 2 who managed 3.45kg using the method feeder and corn.

Third, continuing his good form, was Terry Stroud with 2.92kg from peg 11 again using feeder and pellet tactics and a single carp of 2.60kg was sufficient to give Jeremy Fardoe 4th from peg 12.

All this meant that the series was won by Dave Hutchinson with incredible 229 points out of a possible 240 with Willy Moons finishing runner up with 213 points.

Steve Fell third with 211 and Roy Dainty fourth with 206. C Congratulations to Dave and well done all those who took part.

Welcome back petanca to Orihuela Costa. We have missed you during the last year. We have all missed being outside, playing with friends, the league and competition matches.

Both the Torrevieja and Sunshine Leagues are well into the Spring/Summer season. Summer of 2020 and Winter of 2020/2021 having been completely cancelled due to covid.

Luckily most of the players here did not catch it and have now had their 2 jabs. So all happy to meet and greet other people but NO hugging yet.

It is fair to say that some teams have fallen by the wayside, some have had to find new pistes to use and some have recruited new members. We are all getting back to normal as good as we can.

The Monday Torrevieja League currently consists of 8 teams. 6 from the bar Dominos plus Pumas and Rojales Thader. It would be great if other teams joined the league for Winter. We sure have fun but do take the game competitively.

At the time of writing Domino McCoys head the leader board with Domino Genesis holding the column up.

The Sunshine League has 4 divisions with 27 teams spilt between them.

The current leaders are Division 1 Rocajuna 1 - Division 2 Europea - Division 3 Falcons - Division 4 Laguna Rosa Bandits The photos are of Domino Dolphins after losing a match 4 games to 3 and enjoying a well earned after match drink afterwards.

If you are interested in learning to play petanca, then go along to a local club and have a chat, you will be most welcome.

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SMILING JACKS GOLF SOCIETY

The new greens are really taking shape and bedding down nicely.

This month's winner for the second time was Kev Quinn with a fantastic score of 36 and his well earned new handicap of 18.

They are not a year in place yet and you can see the fantastic progress that the team at La Serena have made during this very difficult times. Enhorabuena Miguel, Bruno and Jean.

Following the great day we were yet again treated to Julie's lovely food, thank you Jules.

The scratch card was won by Ger O'Shea well done you We are in the process of getting a deal for next month's outing which will be on Thursday 8th July at campoamor, keep watching this page for details which will be released shortly. Once again thank you all for your support.

We were catered for very well by Vanessa, Fina and Julio upstairs. Gracias.

Our competition committee are doing sterling work thanks to Captain Camillus, Terry, Alan and Philip.

Petina Murray & Andy Martin

We had a shotgun start and everybody had left for home before 15.00, the way to go me thinks.

I would like to thank all those who were present to collect their prizes. We only had one imposter, Chris of the vino and a NTP…

Las Ramblas Golf Society by Peter Reffell With a mighty score of 111 points in Monday’s ‘Original Counter Game’ Andy Martin, Reg Akehurst, Joyce McClusky and ‘Albert’ shattered the record of 106 set back in 2017.

After disregarding the lowest two scores from the six Andy Martin took this year’s men’s title with a total of 152 points. Dave Pulling put up a brave fight but just missed out with 150. Petina Murray triumphed in the ladies division with 154 whilst Andrea Martin took the silver with 151.

CELTS GOLF SOCIETY We had a fine turnout of 79 players, all following the Covid guidelines I might add.

In second place was our guest pro playing off 4 with a score of 32.

The Club Championship for this year saw the 6th and final round played out on Wednesday. Lyndsay Forbes won on the day with 39 points and was closely followed

by Andrea Martin on 38. There were on less than eight ‘2’s scored (so far too many to mention) however one of our latest recruits, Mike Smith, managed two of them!

PAGE 21

The members of Celts Club de Golf celebrated our first Championship game after the loosening of the Covid restrictions at La Serena.

Yet another fantastic day out for smiling jacks golf society at vista Bella yesterday. Course in excellent condition with beautiful views. A big thank you all for supporting this great and friendly society.we had some great scores but no-one frightened the greens with nearest the pins.

Andy and Petina are Crowned Champions

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In an effort to lessen the pressure and tension of individual competition we enjoyed a good ol’ Texas Scramble on Friday. With a score of 58.4 it was Liz & Ken Robertson together with Nigel Price and Joyce McClusky who took the honours.

Finally, a girl said she recognized me from her vegetarian club but I’d never met herbivore!

Mike Probert talks Golf H

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

FORMULA FOR SUCCESS So you have read the books, bought the videos and even from time to time read these golf articles and you are still looking for the miracle cure or secret.

You will know by now, I hope, that this golfing Holy Grail does not exist.

We are different people who think and perform in different ways under different circumstances.

Do you note how often the word different appeared in the last sentence?

The overall winner with a fantastic result of 40 points Denis McCormack.

Congratulations to all the winners and to all those who participated.

Our next Major is our Anniversary Joint Captains Prize, “Camillus Fitzpatrick and Denis McCormack” on the 19th of June.

Down to the results of the day. NTP’s Colin Soones, Terry Fitzgerald, Grenville Heeley, Alan Campbell and Fred Beel..

Cat III.

Can you please get your names down bookings are now open?

1st Paul Thompson 38. 2nd Michael Randell 36. 3rd Vice-captain Logan Nayager 36. Cat II. 1st John Aitchison 39. 2nd Jean Randell 39. 3rd Frank Considine 38.

We have a waiting list in operation at the moment for membership at La Serena, however membership of The Celts is always available.

Cat I. Alan Walker 39. 2nd Robert Smith 37. 3rd Gareth Conroy 34. Best gross went to Mark Palmer with 33. 2nd overall Colin Soones with a 39.

must find your own formula for success, don’t copy or mirror someone else.

By all means take advices from the right people, absorb useful information and test out different theories but keep in mind that that whatever you do must fit your golf game and personality.

In the 1950’s Ben Hogan released in Life Magazine ‘THE SECRET’ after spending endless hours seeking perfection ‘out of the dirt’ by practising for hours on end.

Also I need you to send your restaurant reservation to me as soon as possible.

If you would like information on joining our club or entering a team in any of the federation events why not send an e-mail to johnobrienalicante@gmail.com or call 615 466 398

Accept your Mistakes Remember that we are human and we make mistakes because no one can be on the top of their form at all times.

Learn from Experiences Keep a diary of both your practise sessions and actual games of how you performed and what you were working on to become more consistent.

He was the ultimate perfectionist and hard worker and it was stated that he disliked playing 36 holes on the same day on the same course because of the risk of his shots finishing in the same divot hole from where he played in the first round.

Have a Single Minded Attention

The history books state how good a golfer he actually was and although he is unlikely to have worked with a golf psychologist, he clearly has what the experts call a ’trained brain’

Underpinning all of these thoughts is an internal desire to be competitive and to perform to the best of your capabilities.

Late in his golfing career he made known some of his key thoughts when playing and these are still valid today and can be summarised as follows: Love the Challenge

That is the crux of the matter we are all different and that is why you

Enjoy playing and practising and feel happy and privileged to be playing the wonderful game of golf and always look forward to you next round.

We at THE LEADER are committed to providing to our golfing readers affordable golf. 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 €84 Two Green Fees & Buggy Altorreal €120 Two Green Fees & Buggy Bonalba €100 Two Green Fees & Buggy Campoamor €125 Two Green Fees & Buggy Don Cayo (Altea) €90 Two Green Fees & Buggy El Plantio €84 Two Green Fees & Buggy El Valle €140 Two Green Fees & Buggy

Font Del Llop Hacienda Del Alamo La Finca La Marquesa La Sella La Serena La Torre Las Colinas Las Ramblas Lorca Lo Romero Mar Menor

€104 €100 €150 €114 €130 €96 €140 €171 €110 €78 €166 €120

Two Green Fees & Buggy Two Green Fees & Buggy Two Green Fees & Buggy (11-2pm) Two Green Fees & Buggy Two Green Fees & Buggy Two Green Fees & Buggy Two Green Fees & Buggy Two Green Fees & Buggy Two Green Fees & Buggy (11-2pm) Two Green Fees & Buggy Two Green Fees & Buggy Two Green Fees & Buggy

Today this would be called focus or visualisation because you must have a clear intention on each shot and what you want to do with the ball.

So in conclusion stop looking for something that does not exist and instead by taking into consideration all the golfing information and theories thrust in your direction, just find what works for you.

Hollow Tine Watch 01/06/21 Campoamor,Font del Llop,Mar Menor and Alicante 07/06/21 Puig Campana 14/06/21 Villaitana Levante and El Valle New Sierra Golf €68 Two Green Fees & Buggy Puig Campana €98 Two Green Fees & Buggy Roda €115 Two Green Fees & Buggy (1.06pm) Saurines €100 Two Green Fees & Buggy Villaitana Levante €90 Two Green Fees & Buggy Villaitana Poniente €70 Two Green Fees & Buggy Villamartin €130 Two Green Fees & Buggy (11-2pm) Vistabella €105 Two Green Fees & Buggy ( 1.00pm) For Bookings and info Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting reference LEADER or on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931

PAGE 22

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Scotland star Fleck tests positive for COVID-19 at Pinatar Arena

Villarreal Europa Cup winner back home in Rojales Moi Gomez: 'I'm back in Rojales - enjoying holidays with the family. I'm very proud - wherever I go I take Rojales around the world with me'

"It has been a fantastic sensation what I have lived in these past few days," said Gomez.

"The team has made history after trying for a few years for an important victory - and finally we have done it," said Gomez.

"When you are a child you dream of things like that - to win a very important title," said attacking midfielder Gomez, 26, who joined Villarreal in a move from Alicante CF in 2010, aged 16.

Gomez who, was a product of the CD Thader Academy and who the ground is named after, left Villarreal in a move to Sporting Gijon in 2016, returning in 2019 in a €1.3m transfer, signing a

BY ANDREW ATKINSON Six of the seven Scotland players who missed the friendly draw against the Netherlands in Portugal on June 2, due to Covid-19 fears, returned to training at Pinatar Arena before Sunday's (June 6) meeting with Luxembourg.

David Marshall, Stephen O'Donnell, Nathan Patterson, Grant Hanley, John McGinn and Che Adams did not travel to the Algarve for the 2-2 draw against the Netherlands after John Fleck's positive test that saw the midfielder self-isolating at the training camp.

By Andrew Atkinson Villarreal Europa League final medal winner Moi Gomez is spending time in his home town Rojales on the Costa Blanca with his family reflecting on his childhood dream after defeating Manchester United in a dramatic penalty shootout.

Quote: 'We've had good preparation.

Training has been fantastic. We all want to avoid the virus but there's no point stressing about it. There are certain situations you can't control' - head coach Steve Clarke

"We'll take it a day at a time," said Scotland coach Steve Clarke after the 2-2 draw with the Dutch.

Moi Gomez with Thader football reporter Steve Hibberd four year contract, said: "After a lot of hard work and sacrifice the dream becomes a reality."

A spokesperson from Rojales Town Hall said: "From the Town Hall of Rojales, representing all the reds, we convey all our sincere congratulations to Moi Gomez on the great success achieved in conquering the Europa League."

"The only one that won't train is John Fleck. We'll give him a couple of days. He hasn't returned any negative tests as of yet," said Clarke.

Fleck, 29, who tested positive for COVID-19 is asymptomatic but must record two negative tests before being allowed to come out of a 10-day quarantine period under Spanish health protocols.

Clarke added: "John's fine. No symptoms. He's got to isolate for a few days but we'll keep an eye on him, we'll look after him as we do with everybody. Hopefully it stops there.

Gomez, who celebrates his birthday on June 23, paid respects to his home town Rojales.

"Looking at the information we've got and relying on the doctors for the medical opinion we're 99

"I want to say 'thank you' for your love and support," said

Scotland training camp at Pinatar Arena

per cent sure that John brought it into the camp, it came with him.

"It's just one of those things with the state of the world at this moment with the pandemic.

"We just have to deal with it, as other countries might have to deal with it as well.

"John will be in isolation until he returns a couple of negative tests. I'm not quite sure what the guidelines are in Spain in terms of the number of days he will have to isolate for.

"But we'll be testing every day with John and waiting for him to return a few negative tests."

Fleck’s positive result comes ahead of Scotland's first appearance at a major tournament since 1998 with the squad training in Pinatar.

"For everyone else, it's just carry on as normal and continue the good work. The thing I don't want is for this isolated case to overshadow the good work that we've done.

"We've had good preparation. The training has been fantastic. The boys are in a great place.

"We all want to avoid the virus as much as we can and that's certainly no different within the camp," said Clarke.

"We'll have to be reactive to certain situations but there's no point stressing about it.

"There are certain situations that you can't control," added Clarke.

Scotland face Luxembourg on June 6, before beginning their Group D UEFA Euro2020 campaign against the Czech Republic at Hampden on June 14.

Gomez, who lifted the Europa League Cup and picked up a winner's medal in Gdansk after a penalty shootout 11-10 win after the game ended 1-1 after extra-time.

Spain and Manchester United keeper, Elche CF supporter David De Gea's missed penalty decided the Europa Cup winner's.

"I am back in Rojales - enjoying the holidays with the family.

Presentation of a Thader shirt prior to last Wednesdays match v Santa Pola

"I am very proud - and wherever I go I take Rojales around the world with me," said Gomez.

ALFIES GOLF SOCIETY President’s Day at LA FINCA A small group of members met at the start of the day at The Keg’N’Kitchen to have a sumptuous breakfast before heading off to La Finca for our President’s Day outing.

After the presentations we were treated to a BBQ prepared by Ben and Josh in the kitchen, and Gary and Jodie supplying us with plenty of refreshments

Longest drive on the 14th – Geoff Sinclair, bottle of Brandy donated by Tony Hall.

Second place in the Silver Division went to Gary Armstrong playing off 21, with 36 points. Both golfers received Keg’N’Kitchen meal vouchers.

Best Gross Score on the 17th – Conor Flaherty (hcp 4 in 3 shots), Albatross Golf Voucher.

Second place went to Geoff Sinclair playing off 4, with a score of 34 stableford points Both golfers received Keg’N’Kitchen meal vouchers.

Weather was overcast but warm and it was not too windy. Overall I think the members found the course long but fair.

On return to The Keg’N’Kitchen, our committee members had a busy time sorting out all the prizes.

Albatross Golf Voucher.

Our overall winner of the day, and our President’s Day Trophy winner, from the Silver Division was our Match Secretary Wayne Stevenson playing off 25, with a score of 39 points. Well done Wayne.

The winner of the Gold Division was our Treasurer, Ian Ingledew playing off 13 with a score of 35 points.

24 members and guests met at La Finca, where we started the day with a putting competition, which was something different to kick the day off and proved to be quite tricky. Then off to the course, which was in perfect condition.

A few of the late starters were caught up in a rain shower from the 16th to the 18th but fortunately it did not spoil the day.

Results were as follows: -

Putting Competition winner in 4 shots – Wayne Stevenson, Breakfast for 2 voucher at the Keg’N’Kitchen. throughout the afternoon and evening. Flowers were presented on behalf of the members to the two ladies on the committee, Rita Potters and Sandie Hall, with thanks from the President for all their help. It was a fantastic day enjoyed by all and we look forward to seeing you at Lo Romero next month.

Nearest the pin in 2 on the 8th – Denis McCormack, Albatross Golf Voucher.

Nearest the Pin in 3 Shots on the 11th – Steve Barlow, Albatross Golf Voucher.

Nearest the pin on the 16th – Steve Barlow, bottle of Vodka donated by The Avenue Bar.

Best Individual stableford tally on par 5’s – Ian Ingledew (hcp 13, points 12), Golf Shirt donated

by Albatross Golf.

Golfer with most 4 points – Conor Flaherty, €25 bar tab for The Keg’N’Kitchen Team Event Best 3 stableford scores – “Team Wayne Stevenson”, Wine donated by “Mick the Grip”, and 6 golf balls (Wayne Stevenson, Joe Murphy, Norman Howes, Geoff Kite) Best Guest Prize – Bram Numiejers (hcp 16, points 34), 2 bottles of Wine donated by “Mick the Grip”

Best Net Score on the 12th – Derek Fleet (hcp 19.9 in 3 shots), Albatross Golf Voucher.

Many thanks to The Keg’N’Kitchen for their continued support, and other sponsors throughout the year. And finally thanks to all the members and guests for supporting Alfie’s Golf Society.

Nearest the pin on the 13th – Clive Beresford,

Tony Hall, President

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PAGE 23

THADER CELEBRATE SAFETY WITH FIVE GOAL SCORING SPREE his best to deny 2 further attempts on goal, as the visitors threatened to run riot.

wo home games in a week not only earned a valuable 4 points, but ensured that Preferente football will once again be played at Moi Gomez stadium next season

T

CD Thader................ 1 Santa Pola CF.......... 1

A

Wednesday night match against relegation threatened Santa Pola, attracted a bumper crowd.

In addition to soccer starved fans catching up with live football, a local boy done good was in attendance.

Moi Gomez is still basking in the glory from Villarreal's magnificent UEFA league cup final victory over Man United, but made the effort to sign autographs for adoring young fans, who must hope that one day they will emulate his achievement.

Inside the stadium, named after Moi, the visitors should have taken the lead after only 2 min, but Juanlu missed a sitter. Thader were certainly riding their luck, for less than 3 mins later, Santa Pola spurned another glorious opportunity.

Thader keeper Adrian needed to be at

Top scorer Quino had other ideas though, for on 22 mins, totally against the run of play, he turned the match on its head. The quick-thinking centre forward spotted keeper Nene off his line, then from a distance executed a delightful lob which nestled perfectly in the back of the net.

Before half time, Quino could have notched a hat trick, but only both occasions he was wide of the target.

Santa Pola were creating the better chances, none more so than on 57 mins, only for Juanlu to shoot wide of an empty goal. Quino can think himself lucky for only receiving a caution following his reckless lunge, which triggered an unsavoury melee.

Having given the ball away to an opponent on 62 mins, Lloyd then compounded matters by bringing him down inside the box. Rulo made no mistake from the resultant penalty, levelling the scores.

Quino headed wide from a corner on 68 mins, then Lloyd almost made amends for his earlier error when his long-range effort was spectacularly saved. With time running out, Santa Pola first hit the side netting, before a tantalising low cross failed to secure the touch needed for a winning goal.

This 1-1 draw mirrored the score achieved in the away match earlier in the season.

The lineup for the final home match against Novelda

CD Thader............... 5 Novelda UD.............. 0

M

anager Raul Mora elected to make 6 changes from the previous match, as Thader played the last home match of the season on a sun-soaked Sunday morning.

Season ticket holders were given vouchers for a free drink plus a BBQ meat filled baguette, which did little to help with my ever-increasing waste line!

It took only 5 mins for Calderon to pick up a loose ball inside the visiting box, before stroking home an inch perfect shot inside the far post. From the

next attack, Thader doubled their lead.

A low cross from the right by Quino was side footed home by an unmarked Nino at the far post.

As in the previous match, Quino was in the thick of everything. Three times within the space of 15 mins he came close to getting on the scoresheet, but his time would come. Borja did put the ball in the net on 39 mins but was adjudged to be offside.

When Calderon was tripped inside the box on 41 mins, there was no way anyone was going to take the ball off Quino, who proceeded to send Novelda's keeper the wrong way from the spot.

Straight from kick off, a well worked 3

The Elche coach, Fran Escriba, will continue for at least one more season at the head coach of Elche CF according to an official statement made by the club on Tuesday.

“Elche CF and Fran Escribá have agreed to renew the contract between both parties for the 2021/2022 season. Escribá and his coaching staff will once again assume the challenge of continuing to grow among the best in Spanish football”.

After being appointed as manager while the club was languishing in the bottom rungs of La Liga in February, Escribá was able to keep Elche in Spain’s top division and achieve a heroic status with two vital victories in the last two games against Cádiz and Athletic Club.

Nino, the team captain.

The 40-year-old striker ends his contract on June 30 and has not yet decided whether he will continue.

As the manager looks toward next season, two loan agreements must also be extended, goalkeeper Gazzaniga, from Tottenham, and Johan Mojica, from Girona.

The owner, Christian Bragarnik, said that he had agreed on a extension of the manager’s contract even if the SUDUKO SOLUTION team was relegated From From page 14 to Second Division.

With the renewal of Escribá confirmed, Elche can now begin the process of building their squad for the 2021/22 season.

One of the most important decisions to be made is to clarify the future of

TRIVEA QUIZ ANSWERS FROM PAGE 14: 1. 'The Football' or 'The Nuclear Football'. (a black briefcase containing the nuclear launch codes).

2. b. Egypt (estimated total of 23,000,000). 3. Queen Elizabeth II's Coronation Coach. 4. Iceland.

5. Barbie. 6. Psycho. 7. John Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival. 8. Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest and Belgrade. 9.

Giraffe (Giraffa Camelopardalis).

10. Six answers. a. Rain (The Beatles), b. Rainy Night In

Although keeper Adrian was having little to do, he produced a good save to deny Jose an opening Novelda goal on 50 mins.

Puerto thought he had done just that on the hour mark, but a linesman flag cut short any celebrations. When Quino notched his 2nd and Thader's 5th goal on 62 mins, there was no way back for Novelda.

This was Quino's 14th goal of the season, which currently makes him the division's top goal scorer. Nano's first touch as substitute was to bring out a good save from Novelda's keeper Soto, who brilliantly tipped (Cont below....)

aside a goal bound shot.

The little attacking full back then proceeded to strike first the cross bar, then the post, as Thader completely dominated this one-sided encounter.

On the stroke of normal time, Kike appeared to be fouled inside the box, but the match referee must have been feeling sorry for Novelda, for he denied a clear-cut penalty.

This emphatic victory went a long way to erase the disappointment following a defeat at Novelda, back at the beginning of the year.

For the final match of this extended preferente division season, Thader must travel to relegation threatened Elda next weekend.

Check out CD Thader Rojales facebook page for details.

Moi Gomez signing autographs at Thader

Fran Escribá renews his contract at Elche

man move, culminated in Calderon notching his 2nd goal of the match.

Georgia (Ray Charles), c. Purple Rain (Prince), d. Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head (B J Thomas), e. Who'll Stop The Rain (CCR). 11. d. Spencer Tracy (1937 for Captains Courageous and 1938 for Boys Town). 12.

Liquidators. 13. Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport. 14. One. 15. a. India (Jaypee Group Circuit). 16. The Dauphin of France. 17. Great Bear Lake (Canada). 18. Biscuit.

19. Bjorn Borg. 20. Mahatma Gandhi (Mahatma means 'great soul')

PAGE 24

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