The Costa Blanca Leader newspaper edition 682

No 682

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th September, 2017

Tel: 637 227 385

Corvera Tender Process - And then there were two!

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ollowing the removal of ‘Corporation América’ from the tender process as it approaches phase two, just two companies remain in the race for the management of

Corvera Airport, Aena, who already run all but one of the Nation’s airports, including nearby San Javier, and French company Edeis, who manage the Castellon Airport to the north of Valencia.

In removing Corporation América the Murcia Government didn’t go into

specific detail, although it is understood that the company weren’t able to sufficiently prove their experience and solven-

cy to deal with the management of the Corvera infrastructure.

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As such the Government will start the second phase, in which companies must now submit their technical and economic offers, with just two possible operators.

Government spokesperson, Noelia Arroyo, said that this new step "is yet another milestone in the road map of the regional government for the operation of this strategic establishment, the opening of which we continue to advance."

Both Aena and Edeis will now have access to the tender documentation, which will provide a

detailed technical report of all the installations and the economic detail involved in the operation of the airport, as well as documentation on all airport functions, the construction project and the proposed business plan.

After analysing this documentation, the two companies will then be required to present their technical and economic submissions within 60 days.

The Government spokesperson said that "our purpose is to open the airport as soon as possible. It is a facility that is absolutely essential for the development of the Region, and we need to to do so with the very best man-

agement available so that we can develop the airport to its very full potential for all of our Community".

The airport itself is designed to accommodate traffic of 3 million passengers per year. It has a main runway of 3,000 metres in length and 45 metres in width, capable of receiving Boeing 747 and 737, and Airbus 340 and 320, which as well as domestic flights will enable it to operate international routes of medium range.

At this stage there is no indication as to when the airport will eventually open with Aena still refusing to guarantee the closure of San Javier airport, which they also manage.

La Vuelta becomes stage for Campoamor demonstration

More than a hundred residents from the Orihuela Costa staged a protest on Sunday afternoon at the start of the ninth stage of La Vuelta de Espana at La Glea beach in Campoamor.

They were demanding the improvement of their public services in the coastal zone where more than 30,000 people reside, a number that multiplies by ten during the summer holiday period.

They arrived at the start of the race equipped with whistles and banners objecting to the “shameful lack of basic services and the empty promises of their municipal representatives."

The Campoamor demonstrators were supported in their mission by numerous residents from across the other areas of the Orihuela Costa, including La Zenia, Villamartin, Aguamarina and Mil Palmeras.

It was attended also by officials from the Federation of Associations of Orihuela Costa (FAOC ).

Banners displayed in front of the world’s television cameras included messages such as "Budget

for the coast", "We eat trash", "The dirt is piled up and the mice and mosquitoes invade us".

The main demands of the residents call for more investment in the coast, enabling an improvement in the cleaning and waste disposal service in the area as well as the asphalting and repairs to their many damaged roads and pavements.

Representatives of the FAOC, said that the rally was a great success in highlighting “the great discomfort and suffering that is endured by residents of the coast.”

They also say that the reduction of nearly one million euros in the 2017 waste disposal and road cleaning budget "has been the final straw that has seen the patience of the coastal residents finally run out." They said that they sincerely hope that the mayor of Orihuela, Emilio Bascuñana, and his government team "will take note of this neighbourhood protest, and remedy the problems and the deficiencies, as soon as possible."

Tuesday was the rainiest August day since 1967 Alicante-Elche airport registered last Tuesday the rainiest day during the month of August since data was first collected in 1967 , with 42.1 litres per square meter of water collected in a period of 24 hours. The figure was released on its Twitter account by the delegation in the Valencian Community of the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET).

The previous record high dates from August of 1974 when the rain gauge of the Alicante airport registered 32 litres per square meter. The average rainfall in Alicante during August is 5 l / m2 of rain.

According to AEMET, along with Alicante, Almeria airport also surpassed its record accumulated rainfall on August 26, reaching 26.6 l / m2 compared to the previous record of 5.2 l / m2 in 2013 and an Average of 1 l / m2 for this month.

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Political Noise Rises as Catalonia’s Vote Nears U nder DBRS’s most likely scenario, (DBRS is an Independent credit ratings agency), Spain is expected to preserve its unity over the medium-term. This largely reflects the opposition of the national government to Catalonia’s independence and the current legal and institutional hurdles that would impede the regional government’s secession plans.

DBRS expects the noise level in the Kingdom of Spain (rated A (low), with a Stable trend) to increase in the weeks leading up to the referendum, which the regional government of Catalonia plans to hold on 1 October 2017. The noise is already having an impact, as yields on Catalonia’s debt in the wholesale market have widened relative to Spanish sovereign debt.

Although Catalonia’s push for independence is not new, DBRS points out that it has intensified over the last few years. Pro-independence parties’ rhetoric strengthened and gained backing during Spain’s

financial crisis and particularly since their victory in regional elections in 2015.

Recent polls suggest, however, that support for independence might have slightly waned over the last 12 months. While any vote, if it occurs on 1 October 2017, would likely see pro-independence voters gain majority, given the likely level of abstentions, DBRS considers that the trend in public opinion may be slowly shifting in favour of retaining the Kingdom of Spain’s unity. This largely reflects the strong economic growth and rapid reduction in unemployment currently being generated both in Spain and in Catalonia, which are likely to reduce support for independence. In addition, in DBRS’s view, the new Spanish regional financing system now being discussed could alleviate some of the political support for independence in Catalonia going forward.

Even if a vote were to take place on 1 October 2017, DBRS does not anticipate a unilateral secession declaration to necessarily follow. Such a declaration would be illegal and unconstitutional, given the legal and institutional safeguards in place. These include (1) Spanish constitutional protection; (2) the national government’s financing of Catalonia and the associated financial oversight; and (3) the question of international recognition for Catalonia by institutions including the United Nations, NATO and the European Union.

With a population of 7.5 million at the end of 2016, Catalonia is the second-most populated region in Spain after Andalusia.

The region also has the largest regional GDP in the country at EUR 212 billion (19% of national output).

The commentary entitled “Spain: Political Noise Rises as Catalonia’s Planned Vote Nears” is available at www.dbrs.com.

‘Joe the Cat Man’ in search of Speech Therapist

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any of you will remember Joe The Cat Man either from the charity shop he used to run in Quesada, or because he helped you in some way regarding cats, domestic or feral.

Joe is now 90 years and profoundly deaf which really impacts his enjoyment of life, apart from the deafness he is reasonably fit and well. He is about to be assessed for a cochlea implant and if he is able to have one successfully fitted it will make a huge difference to his life – not to mention his partner Rose’s!

The surgeon has told him that if the operation goes ahead he will need a speech therapist to help him to interpret the sounds he will hear with the implant. Of course, the Spanish health Service can only provide Spanish Speech Therapists so we are on the hunt for someone who works in this field and can give Speech Therapy in English.

Please, if you are or know of such a therapist please call Rose on 966719272 or 966717905 – please leave a message with your phone number if there is no reply, or e-mail on rojo.cats @yahoo.co.uk.

Due to holidays the next edition of The Leader Newspaper will be published on Tuesday 12th S e p t

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Dead fish washed up in Los Alcázares La playa de El Espejo in Los Alcázares was closed on Thursday after Murcia’s Autonomous Community ordered it as a safety measure following indications of pollution of which still the origin is unknown

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Davis says he now has healthcare agreement post Brexit David Davis and Michel Barnier

most important and will put the minds of a good many people at rest.”

Other areas of agreement included the continuing recognition of professional qualifications across the bloc, allowing lawyers, doctors, accountants, seafarers, train drivers and others who have moved to or from the UK to another EU country to continue working under their existing credentials.

About 20 hours later, on Friday morning, the shore was dotted with dead fish, all of the same species and size. "There were not too many, 20 or 30 along a 100 metre stretch of the shore, but we do not know what the cause is.

The authorities say that there is no connection between the dead fish and the polluted rainwater

He added that agreements had also been reached with regard to “frontier workers”, people who live in one country but commute to work in another.

UK’s Chief Brexit negotiator, David Davis, says that he has reached an agreement with the EU that British and EU pensioners will retain their reciprocal rights to healthcare on Brexit.

He says that the deal applies to pensioners throughout the European Union, whether they are living in the UK or elsewhere. This means that the National Health Service will continue to pay for pensioner’s healthcare, after a deal was agreed, in principle, by negotiators in Brussels.

Davis welcomed the agreement saying that “this is particularly good news for British pensioners who are residing in the EU. It is one of just a handful of advances that we have made but it is one of the

According to figures issued to a parliamentary select committee this year, Britain spends £650m reimbursing other EU countries for treating British patients. Of that, about £500m goes on 190,000 registered pensioners, including 70,000 in Spain, 44,000 in Ireland, 43,000 in France and 12,000 in Cyprus.

The agreement will also allow a British pensioner who has retired in another EU country to travel to other EU countries on holidays and continue to use the existing European Health Insurance Card should they need medical attention.

But not all has been plain sailing by any means, according to the EU’s chief negotiator, Michel Barnier. “There is still disagreement on more than half the issues discussed, including the eventual oversight of the legal rights of EU citizens,” which he insisted should continue to be held by the European court of justice.

Torrevieja secures it’s seafront According to the President of the Neighbourhood Association of la Plaza de El Espejo, José Merino “All that we do know is that 48 hours earlier, we were showered by rainwater strewn with excrement, which carried an unbearable odour."

Local residents believe that it has been caused because "there is no effective drainage, as several decades ago there were just a handful of us living in the area, but as they have continued to build properties there has been no improvement to the sewerage".

The secretary of the Cofradía de San Pedro del Pinatar accused poachers who sneak around the fishing port stealing dead fish. “If they subsequently find that they can’t be used they simply throw them into the sea,” he said. “They are then carried down shore by the Levante wind.”

The mayor, Anastasio Bastida, went a stage further in criticising the practice of fishermen who throw the dead fish to the Mar Menor, instead of bringing them into the port and depositing them in a container. "We will have a meeting with the Minister of Culture, Tourism and Environment, and we will make him aware of this problem, which is repeated time after time and which then creates problems for the bathers who are alarmed by the pollution."

Following the terrorist attacks in Barcelona and Cambrils, the Mayor Jose Manuel Dolón (Los Verdes), has ordered the placement of 30 concrete bollards along the promenades of Vista Alegre, Libertad and Juan Aparicio.

“The purpose”, he said, “is to increase the security along those walkways that are used on a daily basis by thousands of residents and visitors, and to make the whole area far better protected in the event of any similar terrorist attack.”

He accepts that the blocks are quite ugly but he has said that they are simply a stopgap until such time as barriers more in line with the urban landscape and Torrevieja’s maritime facade can be provided.

Despite there being no specific threat in the area, the presence of Civil Guard and Local Police patrols, wearing bulletproof vests and armed with assault rifles, has also been increased along the seafront

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Fun Football Event raises e3,442.10 for Tasha appeal T

he match began with a minutes silence in respect of the recent events and outcomes in the Barcelona area; and an amazing rendition of Nessun Dorma by Britain's Got Talent entrant, Nikki G, who stunned the crowd with her beautiful singing.

It ended with the score line: Tasha's XI 2, Police & Public Services XI - which included players from the Veterans Football Team of Rojales Sports Club - 5. However, after the match one of the organiser's (who speaks no Spanish!) spoke with the referee, Toni Marquee Diaz (who speaks no English!) about the 2-5 result. It was, admittedly a confusing conversation, but the organiser concerned is pretty sure that Toni said, "I made mistakes in allowing three of the Police goals ... a draw of 2-2 would be correct and would definitely better reflect the game!"

Presentations. He bought his winning programme at a separate fundraiser for Tasha, which was hosted by The Bar Stop on La Marina Urbanisation.

The San Fulgencio Town Hall played a huge part in facilitating this event. In particular, La Marina Urbanisation's Councillor Paulino Herrero's assistance was greatly appreciated. "...and the co-operation and assistance afforded by the groundsman, Lorenzo, was priceless!" added one of the organising team, "...furthermore, Lorenzo's son, Julian, actually took a stint in goal for Tasha's side!"

Mrs Ellen Scammell of M.U.N.A. has suggested that a photo album of the event be compiled and given to Tasha as a memento of the day. So, anyone with suitable-quality photographs is, therefore, asked to send them to: tom.whitmore@outlook.es

Tasha's XI goal-scorers, Jimmy Tarquin-Bolds and Mathew Steer, each spotted the opposition goal-keeper too far off his line and knocked in almost identical lobs from a good 40 yards out!

The total funds raised by the match includes €1,000 from The Hope and Christian Fellowship group of La Marina, who will present the money after their Service on Sunday 3rd September.

Former Arsenal and Welsh International, who coached Tasha's 33strong Squad said, "Tasha's boys were fantastic and it was a pleasure to coach them. They had had only one previous training session together. With more time, I could certainly fashion a formidable team from the available talent."

Tasha's dad, Andy Lynch added, "Tasha was not well enough to go, really, but she was there for around 45 minutes. That took a lot out of her, but she had insisted that I take her.

Team Captain, Gary Thorley added, "The match was played in a great spirit of camaraderie; the Spanish team were both friendly and enthusiastic. They are to be congratulated on their participation and their win. I think every player on the pitch enjoyed playing for Tasha!"

She wanted to see some of the people that help her enjoying themselves. I'll probably be in trouble with her medical team, but Tasha is a very determined young woman, thankfully.

The three day trip to Cuenca, donated by David's Coaches S.L., together with the anonymously added €100, was won by Mr Kevin Kennedy, known to many locals for his Quiz Nights & Music

Our family are so grateful to everyone who helps Tasha!"

Calling all would-be thespians

Is acting your dream?

ROJALES PANTO GROUP are looking for new members OPEN CALL AUDITION A FIRST STEP INTO ACTING is joining your local pantomime group. Also help raise money for local charities, then why not come along to our open auditions on SEPTEMBER 4th AUDITIONS for 'ALIBABA AND THE FORTY THIEVES' Pantomime will be held at the

Cultural Centre Quesada on Monday 4th September from 5 - 8pm.

We are looking for all the usual traditional pantomime characters from a Principle Boy and Girl, a Pantomime Dame, a Toe Curling Villain and a couple of thieves with a King and singers to put together everything you could wish for in the true magic of pantomime.

Call Thelma 634 339 588 or email rojalespantomime@gmail.com

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Crescendo are ‘Calling all Singers’.

Do you love to sing, even if it’s only in the shower?

Why not come along to a CRESCENDO CHOIR rehearsal?

We are a very friendly multi national choir who meet every Friday from 9.30am to 12am at El Paraiso restaurant near Carrefour.

Can’t read music? No problem, only a few of our members can.

Never sung in a group before? You don’t know what you are missing!

Come along, have a coffee & a chat with us; we promise that we don’t bite! Our first rehearsal after the summer break is on Friday Sept 8th at 9.30…el Paraiso Restaurant.

We really look forward to welcoming you.

Check our web page www.crescendo-choir.com for photos and write-ups of previous concerts.

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More Vuelta controversy after mayor ignores police report

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t now seems that the mayor of Torrevieja, Jose Manuel Dolon (Los Verdes), chose to ignore a report prepared by Police operations officer Vicente Gutiérrez, and delivered to him two months before the start of La Vuelta Stage 9, in which it was stated that the City had enough policemen to ensure the safe passage of cyclists competing in the Tour of Spain, through Torrevieja, on Sunday, August 27.

However the mayor disregarded the report stating that, in his opinion, a total of 53 officers would be required to see the race pass safely through the city. As a result of his concerns, he then took the decision to re-route the stage along the N332 which he said enabled the police to carry on with their ordinary and essential services, of providing security for members of the public.

The police chief added that the commitment could also be met without considering the payment of any overtime.

Torrevieja’s Local Police Chief, Óscar Cartón, also contradicted the mayor’s argument saying that, in his opinion, police could have

given security guarantees to the race. "From my point of view," said the Police Inspector, "I think there were enough policemen, who, with support from Civil Protection and La Vuelta organisation themselves, could have managed quite well.

However the final decision was not a police matter."

The mayor’s decision also attracted fierce criticism from both the Provincial President, César Sánchez (PP), and the Provincial Deputy for Tourism, Eduardo Dolón.

Stage 9 was re-routed around Torrevieja and along the N332 Photo: objectivotorrevieja.es

Woman injured in Torry bus station crash A woman was hit by a bus when it slid out of control on Thursday evening, as it crashed into the ticket office in Torrevieja Bust Station.

The accident happened at about 5pm as the bus, arriving from Bilbao in northern Spain, mounted the pavement and skidded into the ticket office doorway as the driver applied the brakes.

The woman, who was queueing in the ticket office, was hit by the falling masonry which covered her in debris as it knocked her to the ground. She was immediately helped by a number of bystanders as office staff called the emergency services.

After being treated at the scene she was transferred to the Hospital Quiron she received further attention. The bus driver, who was said to be suffering from an anxiety attack, was taken to Torrevieja Hospital.

It is understood that investigators point to a possible mechanical failure as a cause of the accident although the necessary checks are still to be completed.

Almoradi Monday Club The next meeting Monday 18th September 2017.

We meet every FIRST and THIRD MONDAY of the month at 4PM. Our meeting place is in the "Centro Social Rooms", Plaza San Andres, Calle Antimo Illescas, off Calle Comunidad Valenciana, in Almoradi.

(Calle Comunidad Valenciana is the road that the " Cortes theatre" is in. With the theatre on your left, continue along Calle Comunidad Valenciana and the Plaza is opposite the 7th turning on the left, before you get to the school crossroads.

Once you are in the plaza San Andres

the "Centro Social Rooms" are on the right hand side and entry is via a door next to "The Bar" with blue awnings outside.)

The club activities will include social events, club lunches and evening meals in and around the local area, with guest speakers at meetings and entertainment when possible. If you are interested and would like to have a wider circle of friends then come along to one of our meetings. For more information contact davedanie@gmail.com or on our FACEBOOK page under Almoradi Monday Club, like us and join.

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Patience, patience and more patience

T

he key to travelling on the N332 through Torrevieja and the Orihuela Costa during the summer.

Every day between late June and the end of September, thousands of drivers make this journey in their endeavours to get to enjoy the beaches, restaurants or the commercial centres that attract residents from across the entire province, as well as deep into the heartlands of Murcia.

The traffic increases considerably between mid-morning and midafternoon with the only alternative when travelling from the north the In high season, the cost of the Los Montesinos and La Zenia tolls goes up to 3.70 euros. In total, 14.80 euros per round trip.

two tolls on the AP-7, separated by a distance of just 13 kms, which total 7.40 euros in each direction.

The motorway is undoubtedly the fastest option but it forces families to dig deep into their pockets when travelling between the municipalities of Los Montesinos and La Zenia.

In low season the price is more affordable: 2.10 euros each time the barrier is lifted. In high season, however, the cost goes up to 3.70 euros. In total, 14.80 euros per round trip.

The concessionaire, Autopista de Sureste, Concesionaria Española de Autopistas SA, applied the increase in rates on 1 June, which it will maintain for four months, until September 30. The same increase in rates will also be applied for 17 further days around Holy Week.

This situation ensures that most drivers who want to travel to Orihuela Costa from nearby towns such as Pilar de la Horadada, or the nearby Murcia towns of San Pedro del Pinatar and San Javier, leave the AP-7 at Dehesa de Campoamor, where they join the

International Insurance Card T

he Green Card or International Insurance Card is an internationally recognised document that proves the holder has the minimum compulsory insurance required by law of the country visited. It helps facilitate the movement of their vehicle across international borders. It also guarantees that victims of road traffic accidents involving foreign registered vehicles are compensated in the country of the accident.

The Green Card System The Green Card System comprises of over 40 countries. National vehicle organisations within the Green Card System including the EU, the EEA, Switzerland, Russia and several countries around the Middle East and North Africa.

However, a Green Card is not required to travel through the EEA, Andorra, Norway, Croatia and Switzerland.

The Green Card Bureau Each Green Card Bureau is responsible for handling and guaranteeing the settling of claims arising from traffic accidents caused by visiting motorists.

Travelling outside the EU If you are travelling outside the European Community to one of the countries listed as requiring a Green Card, you will need to ask your insurance company to issue you a Green Card beforehand.

Road accident If you’re involved in a road traffic accident in a

country requiring a Green Card, make sure the police are called to the scene of the accident. You will need a copy of the police report. If you don’t understand what you’re being told, request an interpreter. We also advise that you contact your insurance company as soon as possible, whether you want to make a claim or not. Make notes of what happened. Take photographs of the accident, including plates of vehicles involved. Exchange insurance details as you would in Spain. Take down the names and addresses of any witnesses.

Never admit liability or apologise.

We hope the information provided in this article is of interest.

If you would like to contact Linea Directa please call 902 123 139 More information about Linea Directa online at www.lineadirecta.com

N332.

And it’s the same for the many thousands of visitors who come to the beaches or to visit one of the most impressive shopping centres in the province, at La Zenia Boulevard. These leave the motorway at Ciudad Quesada and Torrevieja so as to ensure that they don’t have to pay the toll.

Although traditionally the second half of August registers fewer visitors to the Vega Baja, the traffic jams still continue, so there is still no alternative for the region’s drivers other than to exercise patience or to dig deep, once again, into your wallet and continue to feed the appetite of the motorway concessionaire.

Alternatively you could always pray for rain!

The government has announced, however, that it will take control of the road, but not until 2019! At that time the tolls will be scrapped which will then see many more drivers using the AP7 and taking some of the pressure off the N332.

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Welcome to Vox Spain New political party expands into Alicante Province

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Dozens of Orihuela Costa businesses without correct license

The Vox Assembly held in Alicante on Saturday

VOX

is a right wing political party that is now expanding into the Alicante Province.

Although it was formed in Madrid at the end of 2013 by 4 former members of the Partido Popular, it is only now that the party is beginning to establish itself in this part of Spain.

by members of the Provincial Executive Committee (CEP), Jesus Esteban Cabañero , Antonio Estañ González and Guillermo Martin Villaseñor.

Made up for the most part of middle class professionals, self-employed people, housewives, retirees, entrepreneurs and students, the party says that it feels cheated by many current politicians who are not representing the electorate in the way that they should.

In Crevillente the coordinator is Carmen Mendiola Ibarra, while Elda and surrounds welcome Francisco Rosique Amat. In Javea, the Marina Alta area and Denia the coordinator is Marcos Sanz Miralles.

Vox pledged to be more active in defending Spanish national unity, saying that in their new party program they would restore central power while “respecting Spain’s cultural diversity”.

Vox say that there is a widespread passivity towards the institutions. New stories of corruption find their way into the news with monotonous regularity. Each one sounds like the one before. They affect not only the main political parties, the government and trade unions but even the royal family, hence they intend to establish a party that is free of corruption and that truly represents the Spanish people.

On Saturday afternoon in Alicante the party presented the Coordinators of Vox de Alicante and Province in the Restaurant La Cantera.

This presentation was made by the Provincial President Ana María Cerdán who was accompanied

Because of the party’s recent growth, Elche now also has a Coordinator, Manuel Ibáñez Prado, who was appointed in April and who is now supported

by Amparo Cerda Sarrenes.

Directors were also announced for both Orihuela and Torrevieja, Javier Saura Saura, Carolina Vagará García and Juan Carlos Ramos Gomez while in San Vicente del Raspéig Francisco Palencia Soriano was named as the party leader.

These 8 municipalities are expected to expand Vox's presence in the province of Alicante as the Provincial Executive Committee begins to hold a series of meetings and talks with many of the municipalities.

The Deputy Secretary for Recruitment, Juan Francisco García Molto, who was also presented at the assembly, said that he is about to begin working on the creation of work and action groups in the region.

With the arrival of Vox the political battle for Spain’s centre-right voters has now become tougher – and more crowded – than ever.

The Orihuela councillor for Urbanism, Rafael Almagro, has confirmed that there are currently dozens of businesses operating on the Orihuela Costa that are without the correct license.

are in the leisure and hospitality industry. Some have been waiting for 5 or 6 months when their applications should have been processed in just a few weeks.”

He accepts that much of the problem because of a backlog in the Council Planning Offices, many of which have been waiting for months to be processed.

The councillor says that the backlog should be cleared up before the end of the year.

He said that he is extremely concerned by the backlog. "We have a tremendous delay in all Urban planning applications and although my staff are working around the clock, the requests just continue to accumulate."

“The problem is especially serious in the Orihuela Costa,” he said, “where many of the premises that have applied for a license to open

He added that "it is the result of excessive growth on the coast that the administration has not been able to keep up with".

The situation was recently denounced by the municipal group Cambiemos Orihuela who said that despite being without planning permission, many building sites had properties that were almost finished. “The chaos in the council department,”. they say, “is completely unnacceptable.”

Aldi open supermarket in San Javier German food chain Aldi has announced that it is strengthening its presence in the Region with the opening of a new supermarket on 11 September in San Javier. The new store will cover 1,200 square metres, it will have 91 parking spaces and will be located in la avenida de la Aviación Española.

This new establishment is part of Aldi's expansion plan in the region, where it will have 14 supermarkets of more than 260 that the chain currently enjoys.

The new store will retain the jobs that a previous supermarket provided on the same location where, from September 11, Aldi will open its new store. "With the introduction of this supermarket, Aldi continues to contribute to the economic dynamism of the town of San Javier and will offer a new alternative to all those making everyday family purchases," their spokesman said.

At the new San Javier establishment, customers will be able to find more than 1,500 products with everything they need for their shopping basket: fresh, packaged, regional and more than 200 organic products, "always with a strong commitment to quality”.

On opening day, the company said in a statement, "all customers attending the supermarket will enjoy a tasting of ALDI products and a live cookery exhibition, as well as many promotions and gifts."

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Man arrested for setting fire to La Vuelta Team Bus A local man has been arrested after the Irish Aquablue Sport cycling team bus was completely destroyed by fire on Wednesday night whilst parked up in Almeria following Stage 11 of the popular race.

The man, who is said to have 62 previous arrests, 49 of them at the hands of the National Police and the rest by agents of the Civil Guard has been identified as PVR, 55 and resident of Barrio Alto in the city.

Virtually all of his previous arrests have been related to acts of arson.

During the early hours of Thursday morning he is said to have placed a mattress underneath the Ireland-based team’s bus, doused it in fuel and set it alight. Fortunately there was no-one on the bust at the time.

Aqua Blue Sport, founded this year by the Cork-born millionaire Rick Delanry, were sitting in last place in the team classification before Thursday’s stage but they have vowed to continue racing:

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Elda assaults result in death of 8-year old boy

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The funeral of the boy was held on Friday morning in Elda

Autistic boy found dead as foster mother is allegedly raped

A The team are competing in their first major tour. They have vowed to continue racing and posted a picture of their riders on a different bus on their way to stage 12, which began in Motril earlier Thursday, with the message: “Nothing is going to stop us starting today’s La Vuelta stage. Thank you for all the support.”

Chris Froome leads the general classification by 1min 19sec over his nearest challenger, Vincenzo Nibali.

n 8-year-old boy was found dead in Elda on Wednesday night while the partner of his foster father was allegedly raped at the family home in Calle Don Quixote 26. Police were called to the scene by a neighbour who telephoned the emergency services on hearing a scream shortly after 9pm.

At a few minutes after nine o'clock the neighbour said that she heard a loud cry and, noticing that the next door was ajar, she decided to enter the apartment. She then described seeing a heart-breaking scene that will remain with her, as lying face down she saw the woman, who is several months pregnant, bound and gagged with visible signs of violence, while the boy lay motionless on the ground.

According to sources, the child was half naked and had seemingly been sexually abused, as was the girlfriend of his foster father, who is about 40 years of age, and who was transferred in shock to the General University Hospital of Elda, where she remained all night.

Attempts by the emergency services to recover the vital signs of the boy were unsuccessful as he was subsequently declared dead at the scene. His corpse was transferred by the funeral services to the Institute of Legal Medicine of Alicante to determine the cause of death, and to search for any additional biological evidence.

About ten o'clock in the evening, Local Police officers cordoned off the street while members of the Homicide, Judicial Police and the National Police remained for more than five hours looking for evidence in the home, as well as gathering statements from local residents.

A search was also carried out in the area among the bins and litter bins along the street and also underneath parked cars, in case the criminals

had attempted to throw away their weapons or balaclavas.

The investigation focused on two hooded men who surprised the woman and the boy on the stairway landing as they were about to leave their home shortly before nine o'clock at night. The door of the house was not forced nor were there any signs of a robbery. However, the investigation is ongoing as there are still many unresolved questions.

As the police investigation gathered pace, however, it is now said to be focussed on the couple’s group of friends. One of the other avenues the police are also exploring is a series of anonymous threats that they received in the last three months.

Whilst the boy, who suffered from autism, is now thought to have died after suffering an epileptic fit, the woman was released from hospital on Thursday morning where, following a gynaecological examination, the baby, which has four months of incubation, had suffered some damage following the violent and traumatic episode she had endured.

However, her family denied on Friday that she had been raped by the two assailants, who wore dark clothes and concealed who their faces with motorcycle helmets and face masks.

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D LY NEW RBISHE U REF

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Monday 4th - Sunday 10th September, 2017

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 3 Foolhardy; 8 Army; 9 Matchless; 10 Heaven; 11 Flout; 14 Union; 15 Thee; 16 Sides; 18 Lent; 20 Prune; 21 Tramp; 24 Sister; 25 Bestowing; 26 Inca; 27 Stand down.

DOWN: 1 Bashfully; 2 Impatient; 4 Oman; 5 Local; 6 All-out; 7 Disc; 9 Means; 11 Fed up; 12 Thrusting; 13 Rehearsal; 17 Sprig; 19 Triton; 22 Mewed; 23 Heat; 24 Snow.

CRYPTIC ACROSS: 3 Abandoned; 8 Mark; 9 Providing; 10 Aspire; 11 Plead; 14 Skein; 15 Time; 16 Tonga; 18 Vain; 20 Lapse; 21 Couch; 24 Barrel; 25 Rigmarole; 26 Stun; 27 Plane-tree.

DOWN: 1 Impassive; 2 Prophetic; 4 Bore; 5 Novel; 6 Old hat; 7 Edna; 9 Print; 11 Punch; 12 Disparity; 13 Levelling; 17 Algae; 19 Norman; 22 Caret; 23 Viol; 24 Blue.

ACROSS 6.

Seer (7)

7.

Automaton (5)

9.

Fret (5)

10.

Restrict (7)

12.

Expostulate (11)

14.

Satisfaction (11)

18.

Unfamiliar (7)

19.

Divest (5)

21.

Stratum (5)

22.

Acquit (7)

DOWN 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

8.

11.

13.

15.

16.

17.

20.

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

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z

This horse presumably will never run free (7)

7.

This bird may have a voracious appetite (5)

9.

Yearn to curtail 2 (5)

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

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

Solution on Page 22

a. Clydebank, b. Belfast, c. Hamburg, d.

Saint Nazaire, f. Portsmouth, Rosyth. 12.

Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street. 13.

Lee Hazlewood. 14. Shanghai, Mumbai, Karachi and Delhi. 15. a. Scarborough Fair (Simon and Garfunkel), b. Streets of Philadelphia (Bruce Springsteen), c. New York New York (Frank Sinatra), d. London Calling (The Clash), e. San Francisco Nights (Eric Burdon), f. Jackson (Johnny

6.

boots are made for walking', 'Summerwine' and 'Sugartown'?

14. What are the four most populated cities in the world that end with the letter 'i'?

15. The following words are from songs with the name of a city in the song title. Can you name the song? a. Tell her to make me a cambric shirt, b. Ain't no angel gonna greet me, it's just you and I my friend, c. These vagabond shoes, d. A nuclear error but I have no fear, e. Strobe lights beam create dreams, walls move minds do too, f. We got married in a fever hotter than a pepper sprout, g. Cops in cars, the topless bars, never seen a woman so alone, h.

They ran through the briars and they ran through the brambles 16. Which 'wily' ex English Premier League club has appeared in four F.A. Cup finals without walking away with the silverware, a record?

17. Arnold George 'Gerry' Dorsey had countless hit songs in both the UK and the US in the 1960s and 70s. What was his amusing stage name?

18. The 'James Caird', now a museum piece, was one of three lifeboat size whalers which helped save the entire crew of which man's chilling expedition?

19. In which country are bulgogi and dak galbi popular toppings on a pizza?

20. The Italian patriot Vincenzo Peruggia made headlines around the world after walking away with which elderly lady on Monday the 21st of August 1911?

1. Doris Day and Duran Duran, 2. Naples, 3.

Swan Lake, 4. Indonesia (209 million), Pakistan (176 million), India (167 million), Bangladesh (134 million) and Nigeria (78. million) - 2016 estimate. 5. Martin Luther. 6.

Gigantic. (large, huge etc) From Johathan Swift's book Gulliver's Travels. The inhabitants of Brobdingnag were giants. 7.

Please Please Me. 8. a: Cologne, Germany.

9. Venezuela and Ecuador. 10. c: Brazil. 11.

ACROSS

1. Name the two honourees with the initials D. D. who have a star for excellence in recording (music) on The Hollywood Walk of Fame.

DOWN 2. Pizza Margherita is closely associated with 1. Enchantment brings injury to 100 (5) which city?

2. Cowardly clan leader imposed on 7 (6) 3. The water in which lake was formed with tears?

3 and 20Dn. Blush on seeing Communist study (6) 4. There are almost 1.6 billion Muslims in the 4. As far as an African journey can be (6) world. Name the top five countries with the highest 5. Commercial traveller wasn't truthful when he answered amount of Muslims.

(7) 5. Which famous law student was struck by light8. Medieval study of lacy hem (7) ning whilst at university in 1505, something that he 11. Bravery shown by many as old as we are (7) saw as an act of God and persuaded him to later 13. He has lines to deliver, of course (7) become a monk?

15. Royal person not initially in charge (6) 6. With one word describe someone or something 16. Such people going by car would be a bloomer (6) that is 'brobdingnagian'.

7. What was the name of the Beatles debut album 17. Pay carries on (5) in 1963?

20. See 3 Down.

8. In which cathedral is the Petersglocke, the world's largest church bell? a: Cologne, Germany, b: St. Peters, Vatican City, c: Canterbury, England, d: Durham, England, e: Ulm, Germany 9. What are the two South American OPEC countries?

10. Which of the following countries does not have a bird on its flag? a: Egypt, b: Mexico, c: Brazil, d: Dominican Republic CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE? 11. Name the city or town in which each of the folFill in the grid so that lowing ships were built? a. Queen Elizabeth II, b. every row, every column, Titanic, c. Bismark, d. Queen Mary II, e. HMS and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

Dreadnought, f. HMS Queen Elizabeth.

12. Along which two streets is the Hollywood Walk of Fame found?

QUIZ ANSWERS 13. Who wrote the Nancy Sinatra hit songs 'These Cash and June Carter), g. L.A. Woman (The Doors), h. Battle of New Orleans (Johnny Horton). 16. Leicester City ('The Foxes') 1949, 1961, 1963 and 1969. 17. Engelbert Humperdinck. 18. Sir Ernest Shackleton.

19. South Korea. 20. The Mona Lisa.

Peruggia stole the painting from the Louvre.

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‘Letters from the Atlantic’ Barrie Mahoney was a head teacher and school inspector in the UK, as well as a reporter in Spain, before moving to the Canary Islands to launch and edit a new English language newspaper.

He enjoys life in the sun as a columnist and author, and continues to write a series of popular novels, books for expats, as well as designing mobile apps and websites to promote the Canary Islands.

The TV Sports Package

I

t has been a strange week, as far as the Internet goes anyway.

For many expats living in Spain and the Canary Islands, the vagaries, confusion and general unreliability of the established telephone company, Movistar (or Telefonica as it used to be called) tend to both mystify and amuse on some days, but generally add to life’s anger and frustration on others.

Some years ago, as a newly arrived expat and newspaper reporter in the Costa Blanca, it was one of my jobs to follow the latest ‘Telefonica Story’. It was both an eye catching and eye watering responsibility, since I witnessed the distress of many expats at first hand. This was a time when mobile phone and data coverage was poor, if non-existent, and many newly arrived expats were desperate to be able to call the folks back home, as well as carry out banking and other business activities.

I covered news stories ranging from the sick and elderly who desperately needed a telephone connection to be able to communicate with the hospital or doctor, with one case of an elderly woman who was refused a connection to ‘the pole’ simply, because it was just one metre outside the specified distance. I stood in queues with other angry expats outside the Telefonica offices for many hours, clutching the precious ‘bread ticket’ waiting for the latest allocation of phone numbers, before the door was firmly closed at 13.00 hours for siesta.

Would it be my turn to be seen or would I have to return again tomorrow?

I have witnessed grown men cry with anger, disgust and despair. It was not uncommon for newly arrived expats to wait for two years or longer before they could get a telephone connection. The Telefonica office itself was a den of misery, with queues of expats stretching to well outside the building, with desperate people begging for a telephone contract at any price. I witnessed the offhand and often cruel dismissal by Telefonica ‘jobsworths’, a speciality that they were very

Fifteen years on, I still regularly receive complaints from expats about Movistar’s standards of customer service, which often continue to be offhand and self-serving. The ‘Customer Care’ staff seem much more interested in selling Internet television sports packages than they are in dealing with a problem. Of course, customer support staff are paid on commission, and who can blame their attempts to collect a few more euros in their pay packets, but at what price to the consumer? Surely, someone should have pointed out to them long ago the difference between offering customers a service to rectify a problem instead of trying to sell them a product that they don't want or is simply inappropriate? It is really frustrating to be asked if I would like a Sports TV package when I cannot even get an Internet signal.

For the last two years or so, we have been tempted with the offer of a fast, fibre optic Internet connection in our village. The suits have been out, held impressive, lengthy promotional meetings for the press, accompanied by those dreaded PowerPoint presentations. Two years on, we are still waiting. We have seen roads dug up, channels made, and pipes and cables installed. We have even seen a cable laid to our gate and into the Movistar box that sits patiently outside. Are we connected? No. A few days ago, we received an automated telephone call from Movistar, cheerfully explaining that the work was complete and that if we would care to telephone the Movistar Customer Care line, we could order our new fibre optic connection. We were excited, telephoned the Customer Care line (which, is not true, because they really couldn't care less unless you buy a sports TV package). The woman I spoke to, took my details, bank account information and confidently assured me that the fibre optic connection would be made available to us during the afternoon that same day! This was

T

amazing and, sensing my doubts, even checked again with the engineer that this would happen. It was confirmed, and on this occasion, I was even tempted to buy the sports TV package, just to please her, but I stopped myself just in time.

Two days later, we are still waiting for super-fast fibre optic broadband to be connected. I telephoned to check, but after trying to get through to a busy line for most of the day, was eventually told that it was not available and that I would be informed when this is possible, maybe in a month or two. I was clearly the victim of agreeing to a contract just to generate a few more euros commission for the member of the customer service team, and with no possibility of the order being fulfilled as promised.

To add a further insult, we no longer have an Internet connection of any description. When I call Customer Care once again to complain, you can imagine my response to the offer for a sports TV package!

If you enjoyed this article, take a look at Barrie’s websites: http://barriemahoney.com and http://thecanaryislander.com or read his latest book, ‘Footsteps in the Sand’ (ISBN: 9780995602717).

Available in paperback, as well as Kindle editions. © Barrie Mahoney

Community surcharge makes fuel some of the most expensive in Spain With the cost of living generally lower than in many other parts of Spain the Government of Murcia is failing to enhance that position by piling taxes on the vulnerable motorist. The Autonomy could quite easily be providing the lowest priced fuel in the country, if it were not for the exorbitant taxes that the Region is placing on the product.

The most obvious case is that of unleaded 95 octane petrol. The average tax free price at which the fuel arrives is just 51 centre per litre, making it the second cheapest in the whole of Spain, just behind Catalonia (50.3 cents), and equal with the Valencian Community.

"The alarm signalled an error, which the engineers are trying to correct. But, as a security measure, the mayor decided not to opening the bridge so as to avoid possible greater problems, "explained the Councilor of Tourism of San Javier, Antonio Martinez.

Closing of the bridge mainly affects sailboats whose masts exceed 7 metres. Motor yachts don’t usually have problems navigating between the two stretches of water without having

By Bar rie Mahoney

In fairness, the successor organisation with its friendlier name of Movistar has improved over the last ten years or so, but I sometimes wonder if this is only surface deep, since there still appears to be a huge way to go to drag this stumbling dinosaur into something close to the 21st Century.

Generally, I am not a believer in the privatisation of essential services, such as electricity, water and telephones, but Telefonica/Movistar offers a clear case for radical reform. Certainly, it makes the UK’s BT look like almost angelic.

he El Estacio de La Manga bridge, the only navigable channel between the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean, provided another scare on Tuesday morning when an alarm went off in the communication system of the bridge's electronic support unit, forcing it to cancel all openings and losings as a preventive measure.

The mayor said that "the maintenance engineers are working to detecting the error and are in permanent contact with the engineers of the German company that built the bridge." He added that he was confident that the solution would be found within a matter of hours.

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good at.

La Manga bridge El Estacio fails to open

The operators fear that, if the bridge is opened so that larger boats can move through, the computer error might prevent its closure, which would then create serious traffic problems during the final few days of August, as many tourists are attempting to leave the resort and as new guests arrive. Those who know the area will appreciate that El Estacio is the only road linking the north and south of La Manga.

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to wait for the bridge to open, which happens every two hours in the summer between 8am and 10pm.

The last time the bridge suffered a similar breakdown was at the beginning of the year in January when a fault caused the bridge to remain closed for a week while spare parts were shipped from Germany to resolve the problem.

The maintenance of the bridge El Estacio costs 116,651.62 euros a year and up to now it has been the municipality of San Javier that have paid the full amount, since neither the Autonomous Community nor the other coastal town councils are willing to collaborate in the financing.

However, when taxes are applied, the average price in Murcia rises to 118.9 cents per litre, the sixth highest in the country.

The same situation also applies to diesel, although slightly better that unleaded users. According to figures produced by the Ministry of Energy Murcia is the autonomous community with the lowest price before taxes at just 48.4 cents per litre. However the average final price to the consumer, once taxes have been added, is 104.5 cents, which places Murcia as the ninth most expensive price in Spain.

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Puppy Mill mothers rescued

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rica – orginally from England, now living in spain has always had an ambition to do a sky dive.

Finally after some encouragement from a friend she registered and paid for the jump herself .

As she was doing the jump in anyway, she decided to make it worthwhile and raise some money for the Paul Cunningham Nurses Charity.

On the 12th August 2017 at a small airfield in Castellon, Erica and her sky dive partner jumped out of a small plane, from 4,000 metres (approx 13,000 feet) free falling for the first 60 seconds before the parchute opened! Watched by her husband Alan and youngest grandson Aden who remained safely on the ground!

Through the generosity of friends from the Petanca Group, Urbanisations Buena Vista 9 and 10 Rojales, the Bridge Bar Rojales, Nev, Mick and friends at the monthly Charity Quiz held at Rialto Restaurant Benimar, family and friends in England - the amount of sponsorship raised for the charity totalled 1,250 euros. Erica would like to thank all of the people who so generously

Pets In Spain animal charity has rescued 3 more puppy farm mothers from an illegal puppy mill.

Making a total of 16 recently rescued.

Made to endure a life of just pregnancy and puppies they were kept in cages in a filthy outdoor shed all of there lives and forcibly impregnated every six months to produce puppies to sell. Now aged 5-7 years they were to be discarded due to ill health and taken to a killing station. Pets In Spain animal charity collaborates with animalista groups in Spain to free puppy mill used and abused mothers and fathers and take them into foster homes, provide them with all necessary veterinary treatment, care and rehabilitation. One of these mothers has tumours in her mammary glands, this occurs frequently in un-spayed female dogs, another has proved positive for Leishmaniasis. When they are

well enough all three need surgery which will include their sterilization. An appeal for donations to help the charity fund veterinary treatment for rescued puppy farm dogs has been launched. Pets In Spain is a registered charity in Spain run entirely by volunteers. They do not receive any local or regional government funding. Charity registration CIF No. G-54669262 To donate by bank transfer or setup a monthly direct debit: Account Name: Pets in Spain Bank: Sabadell IBAN: ES14 0081 0687 7700 0168 1672 SWIFT/BIC: BSAB ESBB Donations by Paypal to info@petsinspain.com or please call 645469253 Email: info@petsinspain.com Web site: petsinspain.com

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sponsored her.

On the 28th August 2017 the money raised was presented to the Charity. Two volunteers, who work for the Charity, Meeche and Valerie, accepted the cheque on behalf of the Paul Cunningham Nurses Charity at the Petanka pitch Quesada.

Without encouragement from Meeche who herself has done a solo sky dive, Erica thinks she might not have realised her ambition.

The Paul Cunningham Nurses Charity, was created to assist terminally ill patients, free of charge and in their own home environment, adminstering care with dignity and compassion.

The dedicated nurses are experienced in pallative care and work alongside Doctors to effectively manage pain and symptoms They also provide emotional support to the patient and family. The charity is a non-profit making organisation that relies on donations and its charity shops.

Anyone needing their nursing services or wishing to support the charity can call 966 790 363.

Tandem Sky-Dive for charity

Erica would like to thank all of the people who so generously sponsored her for 1250 euro

Vetvetones get new Season underway After a break over the summer we are ready to sing again and rehearsals begin on Wednesday the 6th September at El Paraiso Restaurant, Jardin del Mar 111, Torrevieja from 10-12.30. We are a group of ladies who sing for enjoyment and to raise money for charity. If you enjoy singing and would like to meet new people please come along and join us.

We also have ladies who are social members and they come along, listen to the music and join us for coffee at half time. Singing is a great way to meet new people and research tells us it's good

for our health and happiness too! For further details telephone Ena on 965707598 or Maryanne on 966714973 or visit our website: www.velvetonesharmonytorrevieja.com .

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Multiple rescues and fundraising milestones at Easy Horse Care While much of Spain enjoys their summer holiday break (which means our charity shops get very quiet), little has slowed down here at our rescue centre.

Over the past two months we have rescued four new ponies and one donkey – more on that below. We also had mundane but significantly inconvenient incidents like our stable fridge breaking down. And despite the peculiar weather and our lack of a mini digger, our new boundary fence has continued to take shape as we finally, finally, reached our €20,000 fundraising target.

Our secure boundary fence fundraiser was our biggest fundraiser to date, and we can't thank

you all enough for supporting it. All up, more than 200 donors contributed to the campaign, with donations coming from as far away as America, Canada, Thailand and Singapore.

That included one very kind donor, who wished to remain anonymous, who this month donated the final €800 needed to hit the overall fundraising target.

Conker is just one of the horses that are currently available for adoption in the centre

This month we also launched our euro drive, to help us raise much needed funds as profits from our charity stores slowed down. We were overwhelmed to have received an incredible 74 donations in one day from you, our supporters.

Thank you so very much.

Alternative Leisure at ComarCON 17 The ComarCON is an alternative leisure event organised annually by the Juvenile Association La Comarca in Torrevieja’s Municipal Leisure Centre.

The purpose of the organisation is to make the favourite hobbies and

pastimes of children and juveniles available in one central location.

They include video games, board games, magic, self-defence, juggling, role playing and much, much more.

And the very best part about it all….it is available completely free of charge.

The Councilor for Youth, Víctor Ferrández, announced details of the 5th edition of event which will be held on 14 and 15 October at the Palacio de los Deportes.

In addition to the many items already listed there will also be competitions, workshops, exhibitions, talks, tournaments, and you will also be able to walk around a variety of stands and shops. The event will be open all day between the hours of 10am and 9pm on both the 14 and 15 October with free admission.

You can even take your mums and dads along to the multimedia engineering stand which will be demonstrating many retro video games from 30 years ago…should bring back a memory or two!

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17

A SPECIAL E-MESSAGE FROM CAMPOVERDE CHURCH Campoverde Church has put up its latest sign in the garden which is right up there in the digital age! If you are on facebook you’ll get it, if you’re not forget it.

When searching for appropriate signs to get the message across to people passing the church it was important to them to take account of modern means of communication. What better way than to relate God’s message to the most popular means of communication....facebook.

Maggie Dew from Campoverde Church said, “For Christians, God’s means of communicating His message to us is through the bible, an ancient facebook, which we like to call God’s ‘Faithbook’. Through His word, His Faithbook, He sends us His friend request.

We hope that by relating God’s word to a way of communicating that everyone understands, people will get that God truly wants us to trust Him in a way we would trust our friends, and more.” Watch the garden in two week’s time for the latest message from Campoverde Church.

For more information visit Campoverde Church’s facebook page on www.facebook.com/campoverdechurch, or visit God’s personal facebook page, The Bible (you may have one in your house), or e-mail maggieruthdew@hotmail.com, or contact Father Richard Seabrook on frras@c-of-e-torrevieja.com.

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Car and Vehicle Sales The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2016 Ford Mustang GT which is on Special Offer priced at just 45,900 euro. Come along to our showroom in Elche and see our vast range of used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers.

The biggest and best for price, choice and quality. (69148)

Social and Clubs The next meeting of the Orihuela Costa Branch of the Royal British Legion will be on 17 Aug at the Olympia Restaurant in Mil Palmeras starting at 7.30pm. The Torrevieja Branch meets at the Casa Ventura in San Luis at 7.30 pm on the 2nd Friday while the La Marina/Gran Alacant Branch meets on the 1st Monday at The London Bar, behind Dial Prix in Gran Alacant at 6pm. Everyone Welcome.

Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you. Our aim is to assist with problem solving for the over 50’s and promote their well-being. We need volunteer Drivers and paople to join our Residential Home Visiting Team.

You will visit people who live in

a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee either in a wheelchair or walking. If you think you can help Age Concern in this respect call into our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887.

Or you can email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es HAH CB need you to help us help those in need in their own homes in areas surrounding Quesada, San Luis, La Siesta Torrevieja, La Mata, Orihuela Costa, Villamartin to Campoverde, short or long term medical conditions of all ages and nationalities.

Contact our head office on 965 328 794 or email: charitycentre helpathomecb@gmail.com.

Girlguiding group for Orihuela Costa. The Orihuela Costa Rainbows and Brownies. This is a brand new Girlguiding group for girls aged 5-11 years.

Rainbows 5-7 years, Brownies 711 years. We will meet every Wednesday at the Madhouse in El Galan. Parents can find our more on our Facebook page Orihuela Costa Brownies and Rainbows

Monday 4th - Sunday 10th September, 2017

Curious about work of Samaritans in Spain? Interested in becoming a listener? Have a few hours a week to help with the charity shop, fundraising or admin? To find out more, come and join us for refreshments and a chat at our Centre in the Punta Marina Shopping Centre, by the Punta Prima roundabout, on the N332.

(Volunteer positions are unpaid but expenses can be claimed). www.samaritansinspain.com Email: janeatsams@outlook.com QUESADA LADIES CLUB The Annual General Meeting of the Quesada Ladies Club will be held at the Cooper’s Arms, Dona Pepa, Quesada, on Tuesday 12th September 2017. This is for members only, and they will be admitted at the usual time of 2.30pm.

Churches and Services La Siesta Evangelical Church hold services each Sunday and everyone is welcome. Our 11am 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 am Services and there is also a Sunday School, Stepping Stones, on these Sundays. We welcome residents, visitors and children. For information see our website www.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org or phone Pastor Keith on 666 180 108.

Pets Delmonte Catotel Cartagena. The cattery that cares! Tel 968 168

711 or 616 276 379 (69083)

Personal Torrevieja. Shirley - the best massage. Tanned, young Brazilian beauty! Stunning figure, great breasts. I welcome you alone in sexy lingerie. By appointment please.655 677 738 Male and female Viagra, Cialis, Cialis Kamagra jellies mail order cash on delivery call 604 385 476 viagra4you19@gmail.com

Items For Sale Why not use the power of the Leader to sell your unwanted goods or to advertise your business. Classified advertising is available on these pages from just 5 euro per entry. Email office@theleader.info

Property for Sale Country Finca in Redovan Comprising of 2 buildings on a good size plot, each with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Plot size 500 sq mtrs. The property is in excellent decorative order and is sold furnished. Beamed ceilings in lounge. Euro 170,500. Ref: 000076. Tel 617 537 866 San Miguel de Salinas - A really nice first floor 3 bed apartment in a very well looked after community, just a short walk to supermarkets, restaurants, and bars.

Fitted wardrobes in all bedrooms, main bedroom having walk in wardrobe. Euro 79,995 Ref: 000075. Tel 617 537 866 Detached Villa Torremendo - A fantastic 2 bed countryside home on a 5000sqm plot. Constructed

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from wood and in perfect condition with countryside and lake views. All modern services, connected to electricity, water, mains sewerage. Also a separate selfcontained cabin. Euro 149,995 Ref: 000074. Tel 617 537 866 This three bedroom, two bathroom mid-terrace townhouse is within walking distance of the lively La Fuente Commercial Centre with its fabulous selection of bars and restaurants. It is also close to supermarkets and just a short drive to beautiful, award-winning Blue Flag sandy beaches.

Access to lovely communal gardens and a large communal swimming pool. Euro 79,995 Ref 000057. Tel 617 537 866 Redovan - Surrounded by lemon groves and fields of artichokes and broccoli, this lovely three bedroom, two bathroom detached villa is situated on a plot of 600m2. It has its own 10m x 5m private swimming pool and a separate garage with access to a rooftop solarium. The property is distributed on one level with a tiled patio area leads into the main living and dining areas. Private Pool, Fully Furnished, Stunning views, Private Garden. Euro 210,000 Ref 000058. Tel 617 537 866 Sierra de Orihuela - This fabulous detached property is on a plot of 1.900m2 and has breath-taking views of the Sierra de Orihuela mountain range. The total built area is 135m2 which is distributed across four double bedrooms, two bathrooms, a lounge / dining area, and a modern openplan kitchen. Covered car port,

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manicured gardens and a private swimming pool. Fully Furnished.

Private Garden. Kennels and a chicken coup. Euro 249,995 Ref 00059. Tel 617 537 866 San Miguel de Salinas - Modern 3 bedroom house in the sought after area of Balcon de la Costa.

South facing and in a quiet area.

The house has been refurbished to a very high standard and ready to move into. Large paved patio with high walls for your privacy, ideal for barbecuing or just relaxing in the sun. Fully Furnished.

Private balconies.

Stunning views. Air-Cond. Euro 79,500 Ref 000060. Tel 617 537 866 San Miguel de Salinas - A nice ground floor apartment in the heart of San Miguel de Salinas. It has 2 good size bedrooms with fitted wardrobes. The 2nd bedroom has an enclosed galeria for extra storage. Good size lounge / diner and open plan kitchen. The family bathroom comes with a 4 piece suite and shower enclosure.

Popular Spanish village. Fully furnished. Communal Pool.

Large Terrace. Euro 52,995 Ref 000061. Tel 617 537 866 Detached Villa Torremendo. A fantastic 2 bed countryside home on a 5000sqm plot. Constructed from wood and in perfect condition with countryside and lake views. All modern services, connected to electricity, water, mains sewerage. There is also a separate self-contained cabin. Private pool, fully airconditioned, part furnished, ideal for conservationist €149,995 ref: 000074. Tel 617 537 866

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CAPE KIDNAPPERS golf course, New Zealand, is named after an attempt by the local Maori to kidnap a crew member from Captain Cook’s ship, the Endeavour, in 1769. Situated on the Hawkes Bay peninsula, the front nine is set amid rolling farmland, the back nine juts out over the Pacific Ocean. At the 12th and 15th holes golfers have to play right out to the edge, and leap from the end of one ridge to the next. The headland is a breeding site for 3,000 pairs of gannets, and players are reminded nesting birds do not like loud noises, so if you fell off the 140 metre cliffs you would be permitted only a whispered “Bother.”

THE WALKER CUP was introduced after WW1 to strengthen ‘Understanding and Friendship’ between the British and American golf associations. Named after the then USGA President George Herbert Walker (George Dubya’s great grandpappy) the first ten-man amateur biennial tournament took place in 1922 at National Golf Links of America, New York. The US won, 8-4.

This year’s tournament will be held from September 9-11th at the exclusive Los Angeles Country Club, Beverly Hills, which sits on the 2nd most expensive piece of land in America after Central Park.

Captained by Craig Watson, the GB&I team includes 2016 Amateur Champion Scott Gregory, English Amateur Champion Dan Brown and Lytham Trophy winner Alfie Plant. The U.S. team are captained

by John “Spider” Miller, who also led them at Royal Lytham & St. Annes in 2015. The USA lost 16.5-9.5 to an inspired GB&I team, so this year Understanding and Friendship may not be the top priority.

THE FIRST DAY of the Senior Open at Royal Porthcawl was no place for old men, especially if suffering from laryngitis like the eventual winner Bernhard Langer. “I should be in bed but I couldn’t miss this,” he croaked. Tom Watson holed a 90 footer on the 1st and a 60 footer on the 14TH in 30 mph crosswinds. Cascading water, he spluttered: “Bring it on, this is true links golf!” You can’t beat the old-uns. With 46 scores in the 80s and three in the 90s, one chap

Winner Gordon Cowen

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signed for a 96 to finish on 37-over. He should probably have withdrawn, although in the gloom and driving rain he probably couldn’t plot a path back to the clubhouse.

HIDEKI MATSUYAMA announced after the PGA Championship that he has been married since January and his wife had a little girl last month. Leading with nine holes to play at Quail Hollow he nearly became the first Japanese to win a major but after three consecutive bogeys on the back nine he finished equal fifth. (Probably been up all night with the baby.)

A ‘HANDY’ TIP: To create a bit of draw on the ball as you swing through the impact zone turn the hands so that by the time they are waist high, if you opened your left hand it would be perfectly horizontal with the ground, i.e. a falling raindrop would land on the palm of your hand. In other words imagine yourself ‘catching the raindrop.’’

LET’S HOPE JUSTIN THOMAS takes better care of the PGA trophy than Walter Hagen did. Hagen won four consecutive PGA Championships, but he lost the trophy after his first win, leaving it in a taxi. Each year he was meant to bring it back but just kept saying: "I knew I would win so I didn't see the point of dragging the trophy back and forth." It wasn't until he finally lost that he had to confess that he had mislaid the trophy three years earlier.

Canadian Pacific Women’s Open champion after finishing two strokes ahead of fellow South Korean Mirim Lee at the Ottawa Hunt & Golf Club. Park (or Sung) added the title to her U.S. Women’s Open crown with a 13-under par 271. Chun In-Gee, or possibly Gee-in Chun, tied for third. I can’t keep up with this, it’s goodnight from Grip the Mick.

PARK SUNG HYUN, also known as Sung Hyun Park, is the new

Contact Mick for regripping and repairs. 638 859 475.

Alfie’s Golf Society at Roda 24 members and guests from Alfie's GS travelled to Roda GC for our August meeting. With the recent thunderstorms in the area over the last couple of days it looked like we could have been in in danger of being affected by the weather but thankfully it never materialized and remained generally calm if cloudy. Unfortunately as the

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Until next time – Happy Golfing.

By Gordon Cowan

ground was soft we were not able to take buggies on the fairways so it made it a long day of being restricted to cart paths. On the upside the greens were extremely receptive and made hitting into them straightforward. Putting on them was a little slow which is understandable given the amount of rain that fell but on the whole the course was in very good condition which is always expected at Roda.

Our winner of the day was Gordon Cowan Playing off a handicap of 18 with 41 stableford points Second on countback went to Nigel Glasson playing off a handicap of 16 with 35 stableford points.

Best Guest went to Steve Mason with 37 stableford points Nearest the pin on the 7th – Sponsored by ‘The Street Restaurant’ went to Gordon Cowan Nearest the pin on the 11th– sponsored by ‘The Auld Dubliner ‘went to Jim Dempsey Nearest the pin in 2 on the 14thsponsored by ‘Alfie’s Bar’ went to Neil Oliver Nearest the Pin in 3 shots on the 18th- sponsored by ’The Celtic Drop’ went to Steve Mason The Blind pairs was won by Esa Partenen and Chris McPhillimy Many thanks to our sponsors, our committee for their hard work in the background, and to Mike Probert from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services for arranging our day.

To Rose, Jim and Sandra at Alfies

Bar for their hospitality and fantastic buffet!!!

Big Thank you to Sandie Hall for organising the charity raffle and prizes.

Our next meeting of the year is Captains Day at Las Colinas on the 28th September. Guests are more than welcome. First tee time at 9.00am. Should you want to play, please put your name on the playlist on the noticeboard at Alfies Bar, La Ronda CC, Lomas de Cabo Roig or contact our match secretary Joe Murphy at: matchsecretary.alfiesgolf@gmail.com

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La Vuelta attracts amateur clubs

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reat Britain Cycling Team member, heart and lung transplant patient Steve Donaldson, who participated in the World Transplant Games in Malaga, takes in La Vuelta, and speaks to Andrew Atkinson.

The 9th stage of La Vuelta led to members of Fullarton Wheelers CC heading to Spain from Scotland to watch the world’s top riders in action - that saw Chris Froome win at La Cumbre del Sol. Fullarton Wheelers CC member Steve Donaldson, who had a heart and lung transplant seven years, was part of the Great Britain Cycling Team that participated in the World Transplant Games in Malaga, Spain.

Steve took part in the 5k individual time trial; a 20k team time trial and 30k road race, staged over two days in Malaga.

On his visit to Los Montesinos, Alicante, and the Vega Baja region, Steve told me: “It has been magnificent cycling in Spain – underlined in taking in Stage 9 of La Vuelta.”

Steve, 55, was selected for Team GB following a heart transplant that changed his life, becoming part of the national squad that competed at the 2017 Games in Malaga, Spain, during June 25-July 2.

Steve, a former member of Glasgow United Cycling Club, was selected for the Scottish International Junior Team, prior to being invited to join the Scottish Youth Track Team at Meadowbank.

In 1999 during a holiday in Spain Steve contracted salmonella poisoning - that developed into septicaemia - and was admitted to Glasgow Royal Infirmary with multiple organ failure.

While in hospital Steve - who was in a 10-day coma – remarkably made a full recovery.

In 2010 Steve underwent a heart transplant, and was put in a coma to stabilise his recovery.

During this time one of his lungs had collapsed.

Steve, who joined Fullarton Wheelers in 2013, has also participated in the Euregio Tour, from Innsbruck in Austria to Arco in Italy, and in the European Transplant Games in Vantaa, Finland, as part of the GB team.

“I had a heart transplant seven years ago. I have been cycling since the age of 12 – over 40 years later and I am as enthusiastic as ever,” said Steve.

“We linked the visit to Spain taking in with the Vuelta event – watching the finishing stages,” Irvine, Scotland based Fullarton Wheelers CC member Sean Fullarton Wheelers CC members – with Steve Barron told me.

Donaldson front centre - ready to hit the road again.

Sean, who represented Fullarton Graeme, 51, who broke Francesco Moser’s hour record, set in 1984, Wheelers CC in the Scottish National Team Time Trial championship, held near Forfar in mid-August, was at a rest point in Los has won seven British titles, including the 1997 Time Trial Montesinos, Alicante, having Championship. cycled to the Vega Baja from Graeme, who broke the world hour record twice, in July 1993 – Los Alcazares, alongside club 51.596km and in April 1994 – 52.713km, and was 4,000m Pursuit colleagues.

World Champion in 1993 and 1995, was inducted in The Scottish “We were in Spain to watch Sports Hall of Fame 2010.

Stage 9 of La Vuelta – taking in Stage 9 of La Vuelta headed north to Cumbre del Sol, close to the good weather – cycling approximately 100 miles a day,” Benitachell, that saw eventual winner Chris Froome (Team Sky) said fellow Fullarton Wheelers with the leaders Red jersey, having commenced at the start point, CC member Brian Lowe. adjacent to Campoamor beach on August 27.

World Champion and record Froome lead at the front of the 150km to Benitachell, winning ahead holder Graeme Obree is of Esteban Chaves (Orica-Scott) at La Cumbre del Sol, to extend his Fullarton Wheelers Cycling lead over the Columbian, Chaves.

Club President, founded in La Vuelta Stage 10 continued in the Murcia Province - where 1934, which has over 100 members. cyclists competed from Caravaca to El Pozo.

PROPERTY FOR SALE - LOS MONTESINOS Offers in the region of 69,995 euros

os Montesinos, Alicante, just 40 minutes drive from both Alicante-Elche and San Javier airports, close to the beaches at Guardamar, Torrevieja, La Mata, Cabo Roig, Salinas; and towns: Quesada, San Miguel, Rojales and Benijofar, is this 2 bedroomed, 1 bathroom, south facing, ground floor apartment-bungalow.

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Well established private gated path/garden areas; fully tiled/balustrades, separate door entrance to fully-glazed tiled terrace, with 3 sliding tinted windows, electric/water points fitted.

Entrance to property: Security grills fitted to door/windows, large lounge, under stairs cupboard, fitted electric heater/cooler system, separate kitchen, leading to covered security grilled fitted UPVC Galleria/window.

Two large bedrooms, security grills fitted;

separate bathroom/wc/shower/bidet. Habitacion certificate.

Exclusive Community pool area; Los Montesinos Municipal Piscina/tennis courts/skateboard/football areas close by.

Situated in the Vega Baja, Los Montesinos town has a picturesque modern square, situated in the centre of a popular area with a plethora of bars and restaurants, overlooked by the Church and Bell Tower. Town Hall/Police station.

Facilities include Banks, Pharmacies, petrol station/Commercial businesses.

FOR SALE, due to purchasing another property in Los Montesinos.

Please contact the owners direct for further details on: +34 7702 340 744 or email: lancashiremedia@gmail.com

Mark Roscoe of Spanish Life Properties and Norman Marks of Moneycorp, both sponsors of the Amigos Cycling Club from Quesada, either side of Team Sky boss Sir David Brailsford.

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Cancer donation by La Marina Bowls Club A presentation of 400 euro was made last week to Bob Clayton, Area coordinator for MABS Cancer Support Group La Marina and Gran Alicant area, from The La Marina Bowls Club, by Treasurer Jean Perchard , President Barry Latham and the Match Secretary Terry Perchard.

Bob received the cheque on behalf of MABS and thanked the La Marina Bowls Club members most sincerely for the money they have generously donated, saying that “without such thoughtfulness from people like the members of La Marina we would not be able to continue to help people in need.”

Bob thanked the club on behalf of the president and committee of MABS and those that will benefit from the donation, saying that it was very much appreciated.

San Miguel Bowls Club This weekend sees the finals of the SABA at Vistabella with a number of San Miguel bowlers reaching the semi finals. On Friday 8th September at 2pm, Anita Brown and Brenda Rees will play Carol Bloomfield and Peta Rhodes in the ladies pairs. Sue Milner and Gary Raby, play P Morgan and Jackie Johnson, in the mixed pairs also at 2pm on Friday. On Saturday at 10am, it is ladies singles with two San Miguel ladies playing against each other, Anita Brown v Carol Rudge. And Ann Eagle plays against Carol Bloomfield.

GOOD LUCK TO YOU ALL. Go along and give them your support, it will be appreciated.

The draw for the Valencian Championships has been made, see the board for details.

The Opening Ceremony will take place at San Miguel on Wednesday 20th, 4.30 for 5pm. Dress Code must be adhered to.

Please note, the green will be closed from

Wednesday afternoon 20th, until Sunday 1st October. Check the diary for dates.

There will still be an early morning roll up on Wednesday, 0830 for 9am start, see Ken Hope for details.

The WASPS will convene on Wednesday 13th September, but the green will be closed the following 2 weeks for the Valencian Championships.

Friday 6th October is San Miguel v Emerald Isle ladies, an annual competition, this year to be played at San Miguel. Get your names down ladies.

The Fun Day and Hog Roast on Saturday 7th October, is now fully subscribed. See Paul Thomas if you wish to be put on the reserve list.

The Ladies V Gents takes place on Saturday 14th October, sheets are up on the board.

For further info contact the President, Rosamond Stockell, 965 32 9778 or Secretary, Pat McEwan, 966 71 4257

Costa Blanca Green Fee Svcs We at THE LEADER are committed to providing to our golfing readers affordable golf without the need to join a club or apply for a card but simply contact the number below to have instant access to discounted golf prices, many of which are exclusive to us.

The deals shown in the table are some of the best currently available to you.

Golf Course Alenda Alicante Altorreal Bonalba Don Cayo (Altea) El Plantio Font Del Llop La Finca La Marquesa La Serena Las Colinas Las Ramblas Lo Romero New Sierra Golf Roda Villamartin Villaitana Levante Vistabella

Price €104 €82 €86 €100 €94 €112 €72 €110 €44 €106 €136 €94 €124 €85 €93 €102 €96 €62

Comments 2 Players and Buggy 2 Green Fees and Buggy (after 12pm) 2 Players and Buggy 2 Players and Buggy 2 Players and Buggy 2 Players and Buggy (after 12pm) 2 Players and Buggy (post tining) 2 Players and Buggy Single Green Fee (after 1pm) 2 Players and Buggy 2 Players and Buggy 2 Players and Buggy 2 Players and Buggy 2 Green Fees and Buggy 2 Players and Buggy (after 2.30pm) 2 Players and Buggy 2 Green Fees and Buggy 2 Players and Buggy (weekends)

For Bookings and info Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting the reference LEADER or on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931

Marabu Golf at Mar Menor In association with Costa Blanca Green Fee Services For this month’s meeting a group of 20 players visited the established course at Mar Menor taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services.

After 2 days of solid rain the course was in reasonable condition although the bunkers were a little damp in places and the greens soft on the top BUT all the members enjoyed their golf and this reflected in some excellent scores.

This months competition was for the WHACKER TROPHY which is held annually in memory of Shaun Dear a former member who passed away a few years ago at the tender age of 42 years.

We also had to report the death of another member Dave Marriott and the society pass on our condolences to his wife and family..

The winning scores on the day were as follows: 1st – Phil Tebay – 39 points 2nd – Colina MacDonald – 38 points 3rd – Mike Probert – 38 points 4th – Andy Jones – 35 points 5th – Bill Fantom – 33 points Nearest Pins – Tebay and Fanning Dog of a Day – Debbie Allen Football Card – Paul Fairbairn After the game we returned to LEAF's Restaurante, which is located at Pueblo Brava, Quesada for a welcome meal prepared by the bar and the prize presentation and we give our thanks for their continued support.

Our next interim fixture is at Altorreal on14th September 2017 followed by the society day at Hacienda Del Alamo on 28th September 2017.

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

Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club CHICKEN RUN - Sunday 27th August Twenty six members attended the monthly chicken run. A few social members played for the first time. Everyone enjoyed the mornings bowling, some with good scores some with not so good. After a couple of drinks and a chat, the chickens and eggs were presented by Chris Harding our chairman.

The winning lady was Val Hignett and the winning man was Keith Simpson. The winners of the eggs was Carol Packer and Ted Hyman.

This month the chickens were donated by Sheila Roberts and the eggs by Joan and Chris Harding.

For further information about Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club check out our website www.montemarbowls.com or email us at info@montemarbowls.com. We are also on Facebook.

Sponsored by The Belfry, The Pub, Bowling Abroad and Avalon

Val Hignett and Chris Harding

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La Marina GS @ Las Colinas A welcome return to the beautiful las Colinas course where, despite the heavy rains of earlier in the week, many of us were pleased by the news that buggies would be allowed on the fairways. The course as always was in excellent condition, resulting in some good scoring.

Winner of the silver award, despite several recent handicap cuts, was Gerry McCabe with another score of 39 points.

This points total was matched in the gold division by Secretary Alan Craig who also had a nearest the pin.

Other ntp awards went to Colin Yarnton, Bill England and new member Tom Sheridan.

Our next meeting is at Bonalba on 14th September when we shall be playing for the la marina masters trophy, first tee 10.08 at a cost of 44euros. This is already heavily booked so contact Alan Craig soonest to reserve a place on a100ac@yahoo.co.uk.

The presentation will be in the evening at the la marina club where a 2- course meal with wine and musical entertainment is on offer at 15 euros. Please contact Elspeth Craig by 6th September to book your place on elspeth4mcd@yahoo.co.uk

GREENLANDS BOWLS CLUB Greenlands bowls club has vacancies for members. If you are looking to play in the Winter Leagues, (Winter league, SABA and Southern) then consider joining this friendly club with arguably the best carpet on the Costa.

We are looking to consolidate our squads, don't listen to rumours. Contact Hayley at the club or give Chris (President) a ring on 698 418 987 for details, and get it from the horse’s mouth.

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23

Torry get season underway with a fortunate win CD Torrevieja ................ 1

Vivancos safely gathers from Torry’s Beltran and goalscorer Manu Amores

CD Almoradi .................. 0

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n anticipation of their opening day local derby on Sunday, CD Torrevieja added to their squad during the week with the arrival of Flores, a 20 year old right sided player from CD Alcoyano.

The midfielder is the latest addition as the club sets out on the campaign to regain its position in Tercera, from which both clubs were relegated at

the end of last season, however when we spoke to manager Antonio Pedreño about his ambitions he failed to set goals saying that he was just hoping to build a strong and exciting squad.

Almoradi have also been busy in improving their team with three recent arrivals, defender Abel from Dolores, midfielder Semi has joined from Benferri while striker Gonzalo has made the short trip from Callosa.

The game itself had much to prove for both sets of players, although it took the opening quarter of the contest before we saw any real sort of urgency.

The first chance fell to the visitors but Nemo could only ‘sky’ the ball with the goal at his mercy.

This proved to be the wakeup call that ‘strolling’ Torry needed and from the very next attack Juanpe forced a corner from which Manu Amores scored direct. Savour the moment, they don’t come along very often.

Ortiz keeps a close eye on Juanpe

Walid was lucky to escape with a yellow on the half hour when, as the last defender, he upended Gonzalo, who was powering toward goal. Buyo easily gathered the resultant free kick.

Monte President shocked by players U-turn NEWLY promoted 1st Regional club CD Montesinos have received a setback ahead of the new 2017-18 season kick-off – with the plan of forming a ‘B’ team in tatters.

Presidente Felipe Parades has been left shocked after a u-turn by members of the u19s squad - who had pledged to remain at the club.

The club had made arrangements to form a reserve team – CD Montesinos ‘B’ – to play in the 2nd Regional league consisting of over-aged players from last season's u19s squad.

The proposal came in the wake of CD Montesinos’s Championship campaign last season under new coach Carlos - underlined with the Youth team’s - u19s – narrowly missing out on promotion.

Now the new reserve team players have informed the club they will not form a ‘B’ team, which has lead to a great deal of disappointment.

“Felipe is not happy – but what can he do ?,” club spokesman Eddie Cagigao told me.

The u-turn has seen some players linked with Los Montesinos neighbours Todo Deportivo Montesinos who have struggled in the 2nd Regional in recent seasons.

“Meetings were held between Felipe and the players - in which most agreed to play in the new ‘B’ team,” said Eddie.

CD Montesinos Club Committee announced recently that they were to register a side - CD Montesinos ‘B’ – to play in the 2nd Regional Division in the 2017-18 season.

Club President Felipe Paredes was adamant that youth players would not have to leave Los

Montesinos town to play their football – halting a process that has occurred over the years.

“We have a good group of young players,” said Felipe, after the club’s promotion in May. “However, these players will only improve and mature - if they are playing regular football,” said Felipe.

“In the past this has meant them leaving the town - to play at other clubs and both the Committee and I were unhappy with this situation,” said Felipe.

The planned formation of a CD Montesinos reserve side would have incorporated all of last season´s youth players, now over-aged an unable to play at u19 level.

“It now appears some went back on their original commitment,” added Eddie.

Pre-season commenced last month and coach Carlos and his staff have run the rule over the squad in pre-season friendlies.

CD Montesinos have a new major shirt sponsorship deal with Geosem Spanish Developer for the forthcoming 2017-18 campaign, that gets underway later this month.

The club travel away to CD La Voz on 17th September to kick-off life in the 1st Regional, which is followed up with a home fixture at The Municipal Stadium, Los Montesinos, against Santa Pola CF on September 24.

Striker Carlos Ventura - a key player for the Vega Baja outfit this term – has seen coach Carlos batting away interests from other clubs to sign him during the summer.

In terms of bookings though Almoradi clearly came out on top, particularly with their rather more physical approach in the 2nd period, as four ended in the book, with the experienced Elche referee Andreu Sabuco trying to keep a lid on the game.

It was also the visitors that probably shaded the match itself and but for the resolute and hardworking defending of the hosts they could certainly have travelled back home with a point. Saul, Benja and Ivan were particularly wasteful for Almoradi.

Beltran had a shot well saved by Vivancos on the hour mark while winger Juanpe could have done

better in the closing minutes of the game, but again the keeper was equal to his effort.

But both these sides look as though they could prominently feature at the business end of this league as the season progresses although on the day the home side were rather fortunate in edging a win that they hardly deserved.

Next Sunday the venue switches just across the road to the Vicente Garcia for another home game against Villena, Sunday’s victors over Thader, kicking off at 6.45pm although as ever, it would be wise to check the club website when details are published later in the week.

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