No 1002 Monday 18th - Sunday 24th December 2023
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THE LEADER NEWSPAPER WISHES A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF OUR ADVERTISERS AND READERS
SEE PAGE 5
he National Police have arrested a British fugitive in Torrevieja, who is wanted in the United Kingdom for the murder of his partner back in
T 1990.
B R I T I S H K I L L E R W H O B E AT H I S W I F E T O D E AT H A R R E S T E D I N T O R R E V I E J A
Glenn Wathall, 65 years of age, from Burton on Trent in Staffordshire, was sentenced to life in prison in 1999 after he viciously beat his partner to death on Christmas Day, but when out on parole in February 2015 he fled the country, with his whereabouts unknown until he was arrested just over 2 weeks ago in Torrevieja. He was able to evade arrest because of his use of multiple identities. He had no permanent address as he resided with elderly, and vulnerable, British women, many of whom are said to have had some type of addiction issue or intellectual impairment. They each provided him with economic support. Spanish detectives said that he is now in custody, and they are awaiting the outcome of a judge’s decision as to whether he should be extradited. The investigation began in May when the UK authorities, through Interpol, informed the National Police of the possible presence in Spain of the fugitive, who had been convicted of murdering his partner in 1990. After being bailed in 2015 he absconded from the UK and his whereabouts remained unknown until two weeks ago.
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CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE BRITISH KILLER ARRESTED IN TORREVIEJA The British authorities informed the National Police that the fugitive could be in the vicinity of Torrevieja. They indicated that Wathall was potentially dangerous, and they had been told that he had recently been living with two
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British women who had died recently, one of them suddenly."
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Agents managed to locate a man who fully matched the profile of the images received. However, he had lived in Spain since 2017 using a different identity, so as not to be discovered, living in the homes of several British women.
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The British authorities also provided the National Police with license plate details of two vehicles that they thought he was using. Both were subsequently found in a state of apparent abandonment in Torrevieja.
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The information that finally resulted in his arrest related to his current partner. The police had been watching her property on a residential estate in the town, with the suspect finally intercepted as he left his home in late November. Wathall was duly arrested and has now been handed over to a judge who will decide on his extradition to the United Kingdom. Wathall was imprisoned for murder and sentenced to life imprisonment. He was released but breached bail conditions in February 2015 in the Stafford area.
POETRY CORNER “DEAR SANTA” By David Whitney I'm writing this letter in the hopes You can grant all my dreams I'd like a Rolls Royce and a mansion And a fridge full of chocolate creams A penthouse with views of an ocean A pub that serves only free beer A face of Hollywood heart throb Maybe possibly like Richard Gere My body I want like Adonis With a six pack that all would admire A winter so warm it would save me From having to put on my fire I know you grant wishes to children But pensioners need wishes too If you can't get me all of my presents Then I suppose second hand ones will do So Dear Santa consider my wish list And try to grant one wish at least Regards from A poor old age timer P.S. That last wish is World Peace
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Wathall beat his wife to death on Christmas Day in 1990
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Puig set to resign as leader of the PSPV The general secretary of the PSPV-PSOE and until the elections held last May, the president of the Generalitat, Ximo Puig, is expected to announce his resignation as party leader at a meeting of the Executive on Monday. In a speech that colleagues interpreted as a preview of his farewell as leader of the Valencian socialists, he told journalists at a UGT awards ceremony on Friday, "Each stage has its dynamics, and I think it is the time at which in which new winds, new changes and new leadership are needed." It seems that Puig is going through a phase of internal reflection about his future. One of the possibilities that has been gaining the most strength since last week is that Puig could be considering the offer made by Pedro Sánchez to be appointed ambassador in Paris of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). A position that would require the former president of the Generalitat to leave his position as general secretary of the PSPV-PSOE and would open wide the door to
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Ximo Puig, Pedro Sánchez and Diana Morant an extraordinary congress. As for the million-dollar question of who is going to succeed him as the general secretary, the favourite is the Minister of Science, Innovation and Universities, Diana Morant from Gandhia, who enjoys the support of a number of factions within the Valencian socialist family. It is thought that Puig will remain as general secretary until the party is able to hold an Extraordinary Congress, which could take place next February, and which will probably be convened at the Executive scheduled for this Monday.
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CANCELLATION OF LGTBI CHARITY DISCO TRIGGERS ALARM BELLS IN ORIHUELA
The event has been held in La Lonja for the last 5 years. INSET: DJ Agustín Gómez Cascales
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he cancellation of a charity disco that is held every Christmas Eve in Orihuela, has raised fears that LGTBI phobia by the municipal council was behind the decision. The event has been organised by Agustín Gómez Cascales, a nationally renowned DJ from Orihuela. Although he now operates successfully out of Madrid, he was also the first town crier in the history of the LGTBIQ+ Pride city. Cascales has been organising the charity party, called ‘NocheBling’ on Christmas Eve for five years, always with the support of the Department of Culture, managed during that time by Ciudadanos. The event took place in the multipurpose cultural centre, La Lonja, with all monies raised on the night for charities, either pancreatic cancer research, or to Asoka, an Orihuela animal shelter. This year, with the change of Orihuela government, the Department of Culture is now being run by Vox, in a coalition government with the Partido Popular. Result: permission to hold the party has been withdrawn, even though the council initially said yes. The event was then relocated to La Glorieta, but just three weeks ago Cascales received a call telling him that event too was cancelled, due to "bureaucratic problems." Shortly after the disco was moved from La Lonja another charitable event was installed in the building. It was scheduled to take place on 23 December, aimed at raising funds for the local Moors and Christians Association, a group that holds an alarming amount of influence within the Orihuela government. It’s current President has recently been employed as a council advisor on a salary of 40k per annum, his daughter is the councillor of fiestas, the association treasurer, Rubén Rodríguez Ferrández, was also employed by the council just 3 months ago, with a gross remuneration of 50,000 euros, and as we all know, the mayor, Pepe Vegara, was the Association President prior to the current incumbent. However, that charitable event has also been cancelled following the issue of a press release stating that the La Lonja building does not have a license to hold parties or
similar events. The Councilor for Urban Planning, Matías Ruiz, said that the La Lonja de Orihuela building is intended for use exclusively as auditorium or conservatory for cultural activities, and that following a review of public buildings it has been found that it does not have a license to hold parties or similar events. Ruiz said that "one of my obligations is to ensure compliance with the Law that entails guaranteeing the physical integrity of people, and that is especially the case in public buildings.” He that La Lonja may only be used as a conservatory, auditorium or activities of a cultural nature. But Cascales is convinced that the timing of the council announcement is not coincidental as it occurs right in the midst of the controversy over the cancellation of the traditional "Bling Night!" that has been traditionally celebrated in the La Lonja building for five years. Following comments on Facebook it became more evident that Cascales and his fellow organisers feel that they are facing a clear case of LGTBIphobia on the part of Vox and now, even the Valencian Observatory against LGTBIphobia has asked the mayor, José Vegara, for an explanation to clarify "if there is a discriminatory bias in the decision because its organiser is a recognised LGTBI activist." For the moment, however, both the mayor and the Councillor for culture, Gonzalo D. Montoya, are remaining silent. The only reality is that the popular Christmas Eve party, celebrated as both a diversity and a solidarity event has been cancelled.
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CHRISTMAS IS COMING
he week starts in Spain with the publication of the labour costs for the third quarter and the Ministry of Economy, Commerce and Business publishes the trade balance for October.
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We will also have the publication of the IFO survey in Germany. The slight recovery in business confidence recorded in November is expected to continue in December, driven by the stabilisation of inflation rates and the prospects for lower interest rates from the ECB. However, geopolitical uncertainty and the complex political context in Germany would limit a major rebound in the indicator. Next, the final CPI for November for the Eurozone and the PPI for Germany will be published. At the same time, we will know the evolution of French retail sales and the current account balance of the Eurozone, which will predictably show the stabilisation of prices at levels close to the ECB's objective and the deterioration of economic activity. The week will end with the final reading of Spain's Q3 GDP and France's PPI. As we head towards the Christmas shutdown, other reports due out this week in Spain include provisional figures for tourist apartments, which incidentally are now confirmed banned in some areas, as well as hotel and tourism figures later in the week, and company innovation results for 2022, along with labour statistics for the less able-bodied, as well as birth and death rates updated for this year. In the UK, Parliament will start their Christmas holidays on Tuesday, but Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will still have to face a pre-Christmas grilling with his final appearance of the year at the Liaison committee of senior MPs. Rwanda will no doubt be top of the list, especially following revelations of the actual cost of the scheme, and the less than publicised fact that the plan also includes receiving immigrants from Rwanda in exchange. The latest Home Secretary, James Cleverly, will also explain the situation in front of a Lords committee this week, which will hopefully be more coherent than his explanation to Ed Balls
in a TV interview last week.
Sunak will then no doubt be preparing for his turn at giving the Prime Minister’s Christmas Message on Christmas Eve. International Migrants Day on Monday will be marked by a demonstration, which obviously has nothing to do with the fact that Monday is also the day the Register of Political Donations is published, because, of course, nobody would want to create a distraction from that. On the economic front, following on from some people being surprised that GDP figures showed an economic contraction in October, this week it is expected that more figures will show a further weakening of the UK economy. The 0.3% fall in GDP was in part attributed to the impact of still-high interest rates on household spending, and inflation data due on Wednesday this week will show just how far budgets have been squeezed in the lead up to Christmas. We will also see public borrowing stats on Thursday, notable after last months near recordhigh figure, before the release of quarterly national accounts data on Friday, which will give a broader picture of the health of the economy over the last quarter. As we are heading towards Christmas, we also get to find out who the BBC Sports Personality of the Year is on Tuesday, and talking of sport, there’s an historic event on Saturday with the Fulham v Burnley football match being the firstever refereed by a female in a Premier League match. The Christmas number 1 is announced on Friday, the same day as the El Gordo lottery in Spain, and although Lad Baby are not in the running this year, The Pogues and Kirsty MacColl with Fairytale of New York have rocketed in the odds, following the death of lead singer Shane MacGowan, which will also then be somewhat polluted by the fact the song is now banned in the original form by some outlets due to the use of a word considered offensive. All together now… “It was Christmas Eve babe. In the drunk tank”.
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SANTA VISITS RNA TORREVIEJA It’s that time of year where we get together with friends and enjoy some ‘festive cheer’ which the Royal Naval Association Torrevieja Branch (RNATB) did at their recent annual Christmas Dinner & Dance held at the Lakeview Restaurant in Ciudad Quesada.. The festive spirit was set in motion at the Cava reception by the 15 strong group of singers that formed the ensemble of the Melody Makers, who performed a tremendous rendition of carols in aid of their designated charity, Age Concern It would not be a Christmas Celebration without an appearance from Santa, and he duly arrived leaving his reindeers outside; he did bring in two of his Elf’s however. The shipmates are a combination of not only ex-Royal Navy, but also ex-Royal Marines, ex-Merchant Navy, ex-Army, and ex-RAF along with civilians who came together in harmony at this time of year to celebrate ‘peace and happiness to all mankind’ and it was only fitting that we were able to toast “one and all” in traditional ‘naval style’ with port. We were privileged that one of our guests was a Lieutenant Submariner from the Spanish Navy, who was also AKA ‘Elf Smiley’ and assisted Santa with giving out the ladies presents; the other AKA ‘Elf Happy’ was a ex-RN whirligig (helicopter) engineer. The Raffle was followed by much merriment and ‘shaking of the hoof’ – some called dancing.
Photos by: Tom Crawford of KSC.Photography.Services@gmail.com
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REGGAETON BEACH FESTIVAL RETURNS TO TORREVIEJA IN 2024 Despite the cancellation of an event in Madrid over safety concerns, and numerous arrests in Torrevieja for drugs offences, the organisers of the Reggaeton Beach Festival (RBF) have announced that they will hold the event in the same locations in 2024 adding even more venues, yet to be revealed. In 2023 the tour passed through 11 towns with more than 30 artists. For 2024 the tour brings many new features and better conditions in all its concerts to elevate the audience's experience, according to the organisers. The tour will begin, as usual, in the resort town of Marina D'Or (Oropesa de Mar) on June 22 and will conclude on August 4 simultaneously in Torrevieja and Galicia.
Orihuela to publish new Municipal Ordinance The Orihuela council has retained the bulk of the previous government’s text for the new coexistence ordinance that it intends to approve in the next plenary session. The new regulations are currently going through the display process, so members of the public will have at least had the opportunity to contribute to their proposals. Now all opposition groups have a period of 10 days to present amendments. Subjects covered by the ordinance include rules surrounding begging, sleeping rough, careless riding of bikes, skateboards, roller skates. Failure to pick up dog mess is punishable with a fine of 750 euros and the abandonment of a pet could cost you between 3,000 and 9,000 euros or up to 45,000 euros if they are left in a situation that causes death. The ordinance also prohibits camping on roads and public spaces or sleeping day or night in these areas. Also washing oneself or one's clothes in fountains or similar is subject to a fine of up to 750 euros. Urinating, spitting or defecating on public roads is also not permitted and subject to the same fine, which could be increased to 1,500.
Torrevieja Council sells land to finance transformation of port
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orrevieja is relying on the sale of front-line building plots to finance the remodelling of the Eras de la Sal, and repairs to the Levante Dam The 2024 budget project will be approved by the PP at the next plenary session with the land sold to a developer for 22,691,658 euros, who plans to build four tower blocks of eight floors and another six of up to 23 floors at Los Náufragos, covering an area of 87,417 square metres, and which will finance half of next year's investments. The planned construction across from Los Náufragos beach will squeeze every last available metre of land and no doubt put an end to much of the sunlight currently enjoyed by the residents who currently live immediately behind the site.
DESTINATION OF THE MONEY Among the investments that are committed to this future sale of land incorporated in the 2024 budgets, five million euros will be used to remodel the Eras de la Sal, it will also cover half of the budget to remodel the Paseo del Dique de Levante - a project that is in tender -, four million euros is destined for the remodelling of the La Plasa building and one million euros is destined for the replacement of the artificial turf on the Nelson Mandela football field.
Many of these regulations have been previously included but they are rarely enforced.
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HOSPITAL San Fulgencio man sentenced to 30 years for rape. TORREVIEJA FIRST TO PERFORM 3D SURGERY. A team from the Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology department at the Torrevieja University Hospital has performed the first surgical intervention in the province of Alicante using a robotic microscope system, with augmented vision and 3D reality. This is a pioneering surgery in which the team of traumatologists has used a high-resolution microscope assisted by a robotic arm, called an Aeos Spine. The team successfully carried out surgery on
The accused arriving at an Alicante court last month. Alicante’s Provincial Court of Alicante has sentenced a man to 30 years in prison for raping, robbing, and trying to kill his former partner in San Fulgencio.
and urged her to perform fellatio on her. The ex-partner refused, so he forced her into a bedroom where he took off her panties and sexually assaulted her.
The accused, who pleaded not guilty, must also compensate the victim with 154,000 euros for the moral damage and injuries caused to his ex-wife as a result of the attack.
He then tried to strangle her with her clothing. Believing she was dead he began spraying her genitals with a disinfectant to erase traces of the attack.
The events occurred on 2 May 2022 in San Fulgencio where he had previously lived with his ex-partner. The accused broke into the empty house through a ground floor window and stole cash and various other objects, valued at 4,108 euros.
However, the victim regained consciousness and as he continued to threaten her with a knife, he then demanded her credit card and its password.
When the victim returned, he hit her in the face and threw her down the stairs as he demanded money. The assault continued in the basement. He then took out a large knife
She convinced him to take her to the bank in the La Marina urbanization in San Fulgencio to draw out money for him from an ATM however she ran inside screaming for help. The defendant ran from the scene and was later arresed by the Civil Guard.
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a patient with a herniated cervical spine disc, who has now been discharged. Doctor Alfredo Martínez explained that the procedure was carried out “with millimetre precision through the use of advanced 3D visualization techniques in real time”. Doctor Manuel Segura, also from the Traumatology service, said that this new technique “allows procedures to be performed safer, that are less invasive and with faster recovery times, offering better results to patients.” Torrevieja University Hospital has become the first hospital in the province of Alicante to carry out this type of robotic technology.
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THE CHRISTMAS ‘GAMBLE’… ullivan’s was what was known as a ‘ceilì’ing house’ back in the day. There was one in just about every rural community, where neighbours rambled in at night to exchange bits of news – the good and the bad.
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fanfare, the launch of the ‘Christmas Gamble!’ ‘A tanner’ (sixpence) would be the normal stakes all year, but ‘the gamble’ involved every player putting a half-crown into the kitty. In the old days, there were often two tables of nine.
Card playing was an integral part of all good ceilì houses – and so it was in the Sullivan household.
The game of ‘3x25s’ was played over three nights. The nine players were divided into three threes … and this took some play! You had to watch the play, keep the tricks in your head, not beat your own player … and ‘hold the game in!’ Needless to say, there was many an argument over the forty years that Sony and Mary had been hosting the ‘Christmas Gamble’.
The game of ‘25’ is one of the oldest, and surely one of the cleverest card games ever devised. No game was taken more seriously and the player whose concentration lapsed to ‘let out’ somebody ‘and the five of trumps in his hand’ or greedily ‘went for his own trick’ instead of ‘holding the game in’, might take a long time to be forgiven! Stephen ‘Sony’ Sullivan and his wife Mary were by now ‘getting on in years’. Sony had been in poor health for some time and it was a struggle to keep the small farm ticking over. Proud to a fault, the Sullivans would not look for help and flatly refused to apply for a medical card. Sony gave his occupation as ‘farmer’ to the nice young lady at the hospital – even though he was drawing the old age pension. The bills came and the Sullivans managed somehow to pay them. Sony and Mary did not have children of their own, but their house was like a second home to every youngster in the parish. No child ever left the house without some little treat or ‘a few coppers.’ Now the neighbours dropped the odd load of ash logs and turf in the yard; brushing off the objections with; ‘isn’t it only to keep our own backsides warm at the card-plays!’ Coming up to Christmas the card-plays took on an added seriousness. From November they would start playing for ‘feathers’: Mary Sullivan would be paid for one of her fat geese or turkeys and this would be played for – usually over two nights. Then, come the second week in December and, with no little
But over the years the numbers had fallen. ‘Sher, the young crowd have no interest in playing cards anymore’, was often sadly remarked upon. The last few years only six old-timers were on hand for the gamble and they played ‘three doubles.’ The same arguments went on as ever before. ‘Muldoon’, a farm labourer, earning £3 per week; ‘who could buy and sell us all’ was always annoying the ‘school’ by putting in his stake in pennies, ha’pennys, and thruppeny bits. Muldoon (never called by his Christian name of Tom) was tight with his money alright, but he knew he was annoying the others and this was his way of asserting his right! Of course they were all solid friends - but only after the ‘gamble’ got settled! Every card-play would conclude with a large pot of tea on the table and a helping of Mary’s home-baked bread and blackcurrant jam. Sony would try and ‘fire up’ his pipe. He spent more time trying to light it these days than smoking it. Where once he would take a deep ‘drag’ on the shank, now it was more of a weak pull, followed by the inevitable cough. ‘I’m fifty years pulling on it and I’m not going to stop now’, Sony told them. The Sullivans couldn’t believe their eyes when eighteen card-players turned up this year. These included two widows of old friends and five sons of bygone players. Two tables of
nine … ‘just like in the good old days’, beamed Sony. Three magical nights of cards, story-telling – and even a few songs, concluded on the night before Christmas Eve. The last act would be – as it always had been, where the lads cut the holly bush into small pieces for Mary. Tomorrow she would adorn the windows and the mantle-piece with sprigs of holly – never forgetting to put the nicest piece with the most berries, on top of the sacred heart picture. This was all the decorations that would be used, apart from a big red candle, sitting on the dresser, which would be lit and put in the window in the morning. Sony was lighting his pipe … (again!), when Mary lifted the candle from the dresser. She thought she was seeing things. There, behind the candle, was a tightly folded bundle of £1 notes and a white handkerchief, tied at the four corners and containing a heavy ball of something or other. Mary and Sony counted the notes together … £17!
Pilar de la Horadada to renew 420 lights in the town centre T he Pilar de la Horadada Council has awarded a contract to renew 422 street light points in the urban area. This will involve the replacement of sodium vapor streetlights with LEDs, which are much more efficient from the point of view of maintenance and energy consumption. The change will take place on C/Comerciantes, Avd Torrejunto, Isla de Palma and C/Comunidad Andaluza and Comunidad Manchega, Polideportivo and sector Alpuente. The completion period for the work is four months. The contract has been awarded to the Torrevieja company Radiluz following a competition in which 17 companies from the sector took part. It achieved a very significant reduction in the tender price, reducing the amount to
169,000 euros (VAT included) when the amount allocated was 281,000 euros. KIOSKS/BARS IN GREEN AREAS
The Contracting area has also put out to tender a contract to award the establishment and management of six bar kiosks in green areas around the municipality with a concession of six years extendable for two more. The service concession contract offers the sites of del Parque Ramón Eugenio, Parque Andrés Murcia Viudas, calle Salar (Riomar), calle Río Nervión (Riomar), Mar Báltico and avenida Costa Blanca (Torre de la Horadada). The last four are located on the coast. The tender fees vary from 36,000 euros in the town to 128,000 in Riomar, for the entire period.
Proud Mary got on her bicycle. She didn’t want charity: None of the card players lived far away, so she did every house. Every ceilìer she asked convinced her they knew nothing about the money. She met Muldoon on the road. His steely blue eyes met hers as he told her he didn’t know what she was talking about and that ‘none of that crowd would give a penny to their own mother – much less leave money on your dresser.’ ‘A miracle from God’, the Sullivans whispered to each other. ‘See what’s in that handkerchief, Mary’, suggested Sony. She opened the knots on the kitchen table. Out spilled a mix of pennies, ha’pennies, thruppenny bits, tanners, shillings and a few florins. When they finally managed to count it all, it came to exactly one pound …! NOLLAIG SHONA Happy Christmas to one and all … with a special thought for our exiles.
Parque Andrés Murcia Viudas
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7,328 Fewer Brits Living in Spain A
ccording to the latest data released this week by the Institute of National Statistics, Torrevieja has seen the largest population growth in the country, increasing by 6.8% as of 1 January 2023, primarily thanks to the increase in Ukrainians, and despite the decline in Brits. In percentage terms,
Estepona in Malaga, with a 4.6% increase, and Benidorm, with 4.3%, are next. The number of Ukrainians registered in Spain increased by 75.9% in 2022, incorporating 83,401 people. In Torrevieja alone, there are 6,939 Ukrainians registered, almost 1,200 more than in January of the previous year, for a census of 89,729
There are still over 284,000 British residents in Spain
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people. It should also be noted that for the most part, the Ukrainians are considered temporary residents as they are given refuge from the war in their country. In the country as a whole, Moroccans (893,953) continue to be the most numerous foreigners, followed by Romanians (629,755) and Colombians (453,911), who register the greatest increase in numbers (142,391 more), ahead of Ukraine (83,401) and Venezuela (64,498), and the second in proportion, 45.7%, after Ukraine (75.9%). The overall resident population in Spain stood at 48,085,361 inhabitants as of January 1, 2023, 598,634 people more than on the same date in 2022, which represents a population increase of 1.26%. Of the 48,085,361 inhabitants, 41,995,741 had Spanish nationality (87.3%) and 6,089,620 had foreign nationality (12.7%), confirming an increase of 10.5% of the foreign population in Spain. However, that foreign population increase is not the Brits, despite many still choosing Spain as a post-Brexit home. As of 1 January 2023, there was a total of 284,037 Brits in the country, overall, a 2.5% decline, with 7,328 fewer Brits living here than the year before, the equivalent of one and a half times the entire British population who lived in Torrevieja on 1 January 2022 (4,722) leaving the country. In contrast, the British population in Torrevieja on 1 January 2012, ten years earlier, was 13,121.
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Raising the roof with ‘The Ramblas Players’ irector Jacs Boswell started The Ramblas Players in June 2023. Having lived in France, in Salies de Béarn, De France for 14 years she started a drama group. Their first performances consisted of several 1 Act plays and small sketches in the gardens of a beautiful chateau!
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There was so much interest, the group grew to 56 members strong! 30 of them treading the boards, the others backstage crew Each year they put on a festive pantomime in December and in the summer "Picnic with the players" a free family and friends’ event which showcased shorts sketches and musical numbers They even had a live band on stage playing at the pantomimes as the group quickly developed. Audiences grew from 60 to eventually 360, many of whom were French, when they were able to perform in the local theatre in Salies de bearn, which could
seat 400 people! Locally, the newly formed amateur dramatic drama group ‘The Ramblas Players’ have been raising the roof in Villa Martin Golf club with two comedy acts. The first was ‘Diamond girls’. They say diamonds are a girl's best friend, but are they? The suspense only ends in the final moments! The second act, ‘Gosforths Fete’, saw Gosforth and his tea ladies attempts at raising the money they need for the new village hall with the cubs, the scout leader, and the weather all getting in the way! To end the night of entertainment, Christmas songs and mince pies got everyone into the festive spirit! Going forward, she and the members of The Ramblas Players are already planning events for next year! Potentially a spring event followed by a festive event later in the year! Watch this space for more information!
Expansion of the Torrevieja desalination plant to cost 108 million euros
TORREVIEJA REFUSES TO COMPLY WITH ANTI-FRAUD AGENCY INVESTIGATION
The Council of Ministers has authorised expansion works and the operation and maintenance service of the Torrevieja desalination plant to the State Company Waters of the Mediterranean Basins (AcuaMed), subject to the approval of the Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO), for an estimated value of 108,528,241 euros. The works will include the expansion of the plant, which will increase its production capacity from 80 cubic hectometres to 120. The Torrevieja desalination plant was conceived to produce 40 hectometres for urban supply and 40 for irrigation communities. It has been distributing flows since approximately 2013, at first with just marginal demand, but now the demand has almost doubled.
Torrevieja Council will not respond to the recommendations of the Valencian Anti-Fraud Agency in relation to the Bono Consumo commercial voucher scheme, because, they claim, they are just that: recommendations. The Anti-Fraud Agency is concerned over possible irregularities in the granting of aid to the local merchant association Apymeco for the organisation of separate consumer bonus campaigns in 2021 and 2022. The Valencian Anti-Fraud Agency investigated the matter following a complaint that indicated that the Council had allegedly modified the 'ad hoc' base so that Apymeco was the only association that could attend and qualify for the subsidy.
have been brought to the attention of the Tax Agency. The Consistory states, not only that it has collaborated with the Agency in all the requests they have made, but they also reported to their legal services that they do not consider that any refund is appropriate. "After a thorough analysis of the files carried out by the City Council's Legal Advice Area, it has been concluded that it is 'inappropriate' to instruct an ex officio review procedure."
The Agency asked the Council to instruct that Apymeco return 283,218 euro.
Torrevieja is currently immersed in the ninth consumer bonus campaign. The complaint extends back to the sixth, but for the most recent, according to municipal sources in a statement, the Council has introduced "some modifications to further guarantee the principles of competition.
It considers that this association, contrary to the General Subsidies Law, commissioned third parties on account of the aid granted and that these would not have been duly justified, subcontracting to a company expert and to a local computer scientist who, they add,
The Deputy Mayor, Rosario Martinez, said, in a statement, that the management procedure carried out for the bonus scheme is totally impeccable which has been confirmed by the councils own legal services as well as those of the Alicante Provincial Council.
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COUNCILLOR POKES FUN AT WORST ORIHUELA CHRISTMAS IN YEARS
LIGHTING UP FOR CHRISTMAS
Meanwhile, the Ciudadanos councillors have said that they will not attend the lighting up ceremony of the lights on December 15.
"It is the worst Christmas in many years in our city." This is how the PSOE councillor, María García, described the situation, after the "fiasco" of the Christmas lighting contract that was late to be confirmed, for which the lights, described as ‘much below expectations’ were only turned last Friday, and which also fails to make any provision for the municipality’s 24 districts.
Gracia justified asking for Ortuño’s sacking because of her "failure" also criticising her for not assuming "the
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next, the Medieval Market?"
Orihuela PSOE demands dismissal of Ortuño while Ciudadanos will not attend Christmas lighting
For these reasons, the PSOE is requesting the dismissal of the councillor for festivities, Rocío Ortuño, at the next plenary session in December. "You can't do worse in less time," said the socialist leader, Carolina Gracia. "We are sure that if people in the municipality could vote, this proposal would pass with a large majority," said Gracia, aware that the majority held by PP and Vox will unfortunately defeat the proposal.
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This decision was unanimously agreed upon at the meeting of the municipal group as a gesture of protest "for the contempt shown by the municipal government of PP and Vox towards the thousands of Oriolanos who live in the districts," they explained in a statement, in which they criticised the municipal government for not treating all of its residents equally "regardless of whether they live in the city centre, on the coast or in the districts." ‘UNDER FIRE’ Cllr Rocío Ortuño responsibility of organising the contract in time.” "There are no excuses, it is unacceptable that in just over six months we have lost la Noche de las Ánimas, (the Night of the Souls), the lighting for the Moors and Christians Festival had to be paid for by a private company and now Christmas is a disaster, what will be
Cambiemos were also critical of the government saying that they consider it "unacceptable" that Ortuño " has derided all the Oriolanos who do not enjoy Christmas", in reference to the publication on her social network of a discourteous image, "a gesture that shows the lack of respect, irresponsibility and frivolity with which the councillor is treating the chaotic situation generated by her disastrous management," they say.
We all know the situation regarding the late arrival of Christmas lights to Orihuela Costa and the fact that they have been reduced to a minimum, but we don’t want Christmas 2023 to be remembered, because of the lack of illumination on coastal streets. Quite the opposite: we want coastal homes to have better lighting than ever before this year. That's why AVCRL Asociación de vecinos Cabo Roig y LomasOrihuela Costa (AVCRL) is proposing that you to light up your house this holiday and post photographs on their Facebook page in the ‘comments’ section of the actual post. We would love to see your efforts of either your facade, terrace, garden or door. We then invite you to click on "Like" on the photo that you appreciate the most, together with a few words if you can, by 31 December. On 3 January, 2024, we will publish the photo with the most likes and deliver a Christmas basket to the winner. (Remember only commented photos in the post will be entered.) Please do get involved! It doesn’t matter how large or small your contribution is. It will be a welcome addition to our Christmas lights. We are waiting for your picture to brighten up our Christmas in Orihuela Costa. (facebook/avcrlorihuelacosta)
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Tony Mayes Rant THE ART OF PUBLIC SECTOR IGNORANCE THE ART OF IGNORANCE Have you noticed that staff in hospitals, doctors’ surgeries, and other places, where employees face the public, hide themselves behind computer screens and get on with their “work” totally oblivious that you are there? We waited for almost 10 minutes here in Spain in front of a desk while some employee who didn’t deserve to be employed, just carried on playing with her computer keyboard saying “una momento” while she really meant wait for ever! It’s the same total rudeness in the UK and it’s about time employers cracked down on it. The other massive annoyance is when you are being dealt with my someone who gets a telephone call and then totally ignores you to answer the b….y phone. You have taken the trouble to go to an office and talk to a member of staff in person – why should you be pushed aside by some lazy person who prefers to sit at home and then gets preferential treatment? Goodness knows what it will be like when artificial intelligence finally takes over. We will never get to talk to a real person again. You have been warned – and it’s still time to rise up against this growing trend, before we all lose the will to live! PASSION FOR PALESTINE Any right-minded person must be sickened by what has been going on in Israel – but how many of you are also sickened by the countless thousands of people marching in cities not just calling for an end to the war – which is reasonable - but in total support of the Palestinian cause. I am no more in support of Jews than Muslims. Some successfully live in peace alongside each other, but sadly many are filled with absolute hatred driven by a religious clash– and it is this hatred which has got us to this dreadful bloodthirsty mess. I would like all those who march in support of the Palestinian cause to think very hard about what Hamas, which has been born out of Muslims’ hatred of Jews, actually did in their totally depraved invasion. Some raped their female victim so many times they broke her pelvis. Other women were appallingly mutilated and there were even reports that babies were put in kitchen ovens and cooked alive. We keep hearing about civilian casualties in Gaza. It is ghastly that children are being killed and seriously injured in this appalling conflict, But I wouldn’t mind betting there are many parents and other adults in Gaza who know only too well who Hamas are and where they are hiding.
Similarly, in Afghanistan there must have been many civilians who knew who the Taliban were and where they were hiding, but didn’t tell Americans and Brits over the 20 years they were there, so that the religious extremists could be eliminated. And what happened – even before the last planes left Afghanistan down came the Taliban from their hillside hiding places and imposed the same old extreme religious nonsense, denying women any independence, education or meaningful jobs and forcing them back to covering themselves. And we’re supposed to feel sorry for them? THE BREXIT DISASTER THAT NO ONE WILL ADMIT Do you remember all those fantastic promises from the likes of Boris Johnston, Nigel Farage and Rees Mogg that Brexit was going to boost British financial institutions and the City and Britain would be more prosperous? What a sick joke that has turned out to be. Since Brexit Britain's biggest chip company, Arm Holdings, now lists its shares in New York, building supplies firm CRH and plumbing equipment company Ferguson also shifted listings to the US. And now we hear that Tui, one of world's largest travel firms, is considering quitting the London Stock Exchange in favour of a listing in Frankfurt. Now, to be fair, Tui is German owned, and it is reasonable to suppose that it would favour being listed in its home country. But it has been on the UK exchange market since 1982, and a main listing since 2014. The company has denied that Brexit is anything to do with its deliberations, but it has said that having Europe as its financial base would help it deal with European financial legislation. But financial experts say such a move would add to concerns over London's ability to attract big businesses in the future. One thing seems certain, Brexit hasn’t done the UK any favours, despite the Tory right wing trying to pretend otherwise. The fact is that Germany's DAX is up 22% since Brexit day in 2020. UK's FTSE is down -0.5% on the same period. And why would any company want to get dragged into the Brexit Britain mire? We keep hearing that the only way Britain is going to get more money to pay for its ailing public services is to achieve economic growth. Well, if big business is pulling out I can’t see any magic growth tree! MAKING OFFENDERS THINK TWICE I would love to see every magistrate and judge in Britain take note of the way an
American judge dealt with a nasty woman who came before him recently. The woman went into a fast food shop and after an argument with a member of staff, ended up hurling a burrito bowl at the worker. She was convicted of assault but was offered an unusual way to reduce her time in jail by the judge who certainly deserves a pat on the back. At first she was ordered to pay a fine and also serve 180 days in jail, with 90 days suspended. But then the judge had another idea. He told her she could cut off 60 days in jail if she agreed to work at least 20 hours per week at a fast-food restaurant for two months. And she agreed. Apparently the row was about the state of the burrito – the woman claimed it was nothing like as good as one she had a week previously. The piping hot food burned the shop worker’s face and she was so traumatised by what had happened she quit her job. But since the court story broke the staff member has received $7,200 (£5,700) from crowd funding. Can UK judges be this creative in punishments? It would be great if punishments were designed to make culprits realise the conse-
quences of their actions. An obvious one is to make graffiti “artists” clean up the streets. Litter louts should be made to do the same and the same goes for those wretched individuals who avoid charges at tips by dumping lorry loads of rubbish in the countryside. Shoplifters could be made to watch security screens in shops for months on end to catch thieves. Have you any creative punishment ideas? FAILING BRITAIN Recorded cases of adults neglecting, mistreating or assaulting children in England have doubled in five years, police figures show. Freedom of information (FOI) requests to 35 forces across show 29,405 cruelty offences recorded between April 2022 and March 2023 compared to 14,263 between April 2017 and March 2018, the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children said. This is just the latest example of the appalling state Britain has become – failing in virtually every direction, from the NHS to education, social services to spiralling crime rates, lack of affordable housing to the endless lack of control on immigration, etc. etc.
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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD QUICKIE CROSSWORD
ANSWERS Week 1001
ACROSS 1. Roguish (4)
DOWN 1.
Stratagem (8)
3.
Demeanour (8)
2.
Hide (7)
8.
Small (4)
4.
Threefold (6)
9.
Trachea (8)
5.
Rash (10)
11.
Binoculars (5-7)
6.
Fuse (5)
13.
Hue (6)
7.
Regular (4)
14.
Fervour (6)
10.
Judge (10)
17.
Trenchancy (12)
12.
Attendance (8)
20.
Swap (8)
15.
Inclusive (7)
21.
Daybreak (4)
16.
Solitary (6)
22.
Went before (8)
18.
Recess (5)
23.
Otherwise (4)
19.
Assist (4)
CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE? Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.
Solution on Page 19
QUICK ACROSS: 4 Scatter; 8 Hoodoo; 9 Envelop; 10 Lordly; 11 Unique; 12 Offering; 18 Palliate; 20 Hamper; 21 Racial; 22 Against; 23 Thrust; 24 Progeny. DOWN: 1 Shallow; 2 Horrify; 3 Cooler; 5 Conjugal; 6 Thesis; 7 Exodus; 13 Imprison; 14 Maximum; 15 Deflate; 16 Dagger; 17 Spring; 19 Loathe. CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 4 Spigots; 8 Ornate; 9 Braised; 10 Notary; 11 Intern; 12 Grandees; 18 Tangoist; 20 Pastor; 21 Sluice; 22 Pageant; 23 Mosaic; 24 Leather. DOWN: 1 Tonnage; 2 Instead; 3 Stared; 5 Partisan; 6 Guilty; 7 Theory; 13 Entrance; 14 Minimal; 15 Stretch; 16 Ravage; 17 At rest; 19 Gallop.
ACROSS 1 Be almost certain it's unfermented wine (4) 3. Playing a joke is quite unimportant (8) 8. Clock-face placed back (4) 9. Addition with batsman not out of his ground (8) 11. The other way round according to poetic arrangement (7,5) 13. Hurry from Athens (6) 14. Blend in with the teeming legion (6) 17. As cold as cold can be (8,4) 20. Loses car in game (8) 21. 1000 direct guns to cripple (4) 22. Herb and one or two girls ... (8) 23. ... but two in this case find Peterhead has atmosphere (4)
L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. The winners of which major sport competition are awarded the Henri Delaunay Trophy? 2. Which winner of five Grammy's, an Oscar, a Tony and a Golden Globe can be heard singing and playing piano on John Lennon's 'Whatever Gets You Through The Night`? 3. The following was a movie poster tag line for which film? "The Bride is back for the final cut" 4. Who was the first man to win a Grand Slam singles title using a non wooden tennis racquet? 5. Who still holds the record for the youngest player to score a hat trick in a FIFA World Cup? 6. Which country was a 1981 hit song for Kim Wilde? a. Cambodia, b. Vietnam, c. Burma, d. Bhutan 7. Quezon Avenue is the most expensive property in which country's version of Monopoly? 8. What name did captured US servicemen give to North Vietnam's notorious Hoa Lo prison? 9. In which film are "Is that a raincoat?" the last words from an investment banker? 10. Ashgabat is the capital of which 'stan'? a. Kazakhstan, b. Turkmenistan, c. Uzbekistan 11. In which state is the southern-
DOWN 1. Disturbing din in force at 12 (8) 2. Frightens about five in mufflers (7) 4. Park officer has right to get people annoyed (6) 5. Arsonist disrupts air ferries (4-6) 6. Mental conception of one poor game (5) 7. Increased some of the meagre water supplies (4) 10. Keeping faith with class and achieving consistent results? (4,2,4) 12. Concerning one-time worker for improvement (8) 15. Rearrange a garden in the West Indies (7) 16. Hasty and superficial youth leader lost slide from sliderule (6) 18. Gives support to his defence (5) 19. Curved line is a disgrace (4)
( A n s we r s o n p a g e 1 9 ) most city in the United States? 12. Billy Connolly, Gerry Rafferty and Tam Harvey were which Scottish folk group? 13. Which E.T. is known as "the father of the hydrogen bomb"? 14. In which 1996 film did Jack Nicholson play two different roles? 15. The map of Cyprus depicted on the flag of Cyprus is which shade of orange? a. persimmon, b. tangerine, c. copper, d. sunset 16. Which wine term, derived from the French word for "tank" or "vat", is often found on the labels of French wine and champagne bottles? 17. Which Gibraltarian singer song-writer with the initials A.H. wrote or co-wrote all of the following songs for other artists? To All The Girls I've Loved Before, One Moment In Time, Gimme Dat Ding, Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now, The Air That I Breathe. 18. The name for which element in the periodic table stems from the Greek for "I bring forth acid"? 19. Named after the city in which it occured, what was the decisive battle between the combined forces of humans and Autobots against the Decepticons called? 20. At the conclusion to which Beatles song is an ultra-sonic dog whistle used?
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Campoverde Residents demand measures to stop wave of robberies ver 300 Residents of Pinar de Campoverde in Pilar de la Horadada gathered last Sunday to demand that the Pilareño Council and the Civil Guard act to stop the wave of robberies that they are suffering in their in homes, and have been, they say, for "many weeks."
O
They explained that during the last month or so, numerous robberies have been reported, on some says days to as many as four or five homes. The thieves are equipped with black clothing, balaclavas and gloves. They enter inhabited homes while the owners are carrying out their daily routine, such as shopping, taking the children to school or simply going out to dinner.
At the massive meeting-concentration, some 300 people demanded that the Security Councilor, Marina Sáez, and the Chief of the Local Police of Pilar de la Horadada, Jesús Torres, remedy this situation with more police resources. Meanwhile the City Council "asks for calm and that the security forces be allowed to act," they also add that "they are continuing to follow several lines of investigation that they hope will bear fruit as soon as possible." The Council also states that it has invited the residents to an upcoming meeting between the Local Police, the Civil Guard and the mayor José María Pérez, although it has not yet been able to provide a date.
"The feeling of insecurity and fear in the neighbourhood is immense," according to a statement made by the resident. Also "the indignation," they say, has seen a group of neighbours, in addition to calling the police, "carrying out patrols of their own, especially when alarms can be heard, stating they are willing to tackle the thieves themselves, if necessary."
Pinar de Campoverde is a residential complex isolated from the urban area of Pilar de la Horadada located about 7 kilometres from the town. The nearest Civil Guard barracks is in Torre de la Horadada, 11 kilometres away. Pinar de Campoverde is considered more as a residential district than a tourist area due to the permanence of the inhabitants. It began to be built in the late sixties and was expanded with new constructions in successive decades.
Whilst they say that " they fully trust the police action; they cannot sit idly by and wait for the thieves to enter their homes."
It has thousands of homes and 3,000 registered residents, and is a significant population centre all year round.
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New Director of Naval Operations is from Orihuela Victoriano Gilabert has been appointed as the new Chief Admiral of the Maritime Action Force, /Director of Naval Operations). His inauguration took place in Cartagena, in the offices of the Captain General. Gilabert was born in Orihuela in 1964 and during his military career he has been director of Navy Personnel, director of Naval Education and commander of the Juan Sebastián de Elcano Training Ship.
Orihuela to appoint District Boards Orihuela council has announced the deadline for the presentation of candidacies for the 11 District Boards by members of registered associations, although what powers they will be able to exert, based on previous boards, remains questionable. The deadline for submissions through registration or electronic office is December 22. In the event that there are more candidates than positions, elections will be held on February 29, 2024.
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The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome. Phone or whatsapp the missionaries on 659 016 733 Join us at the SALT CHURCH Sundays at 10.30 am. We are a friendly church, bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship. Meets at Calle Daya Nueva 12, Polígono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. We look forward to meeting you. www.Saltchurchspain. Facebook SaltChurchSpain International Christian Assembly, Calle Beniajan 14, Torrevieja -Evangelical Church. Sunday Service 11 a.m.; - Contact 966 799 273 / 660 127 276. Evangelical non-denominational church. www.icatorrevieja.org
The Car of the Month at AUTOMOVILES CRESPO is a very attractive 2019 Ford Focus ST-Line Hybrid at just 21,900 euro. Come along to our large showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and
used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. See page 7. We can assure you of the biggest and best choice of new and used cars in the area for price, choice and quality. ENGLISH SPOKEN
AGE CONCERN BEREAVEMENT GROUP. Have you lost somebody close to you? Are you finding life difficult after a bereavement? Come along and chat to other people in the same situation. Starting on October 10th, then every Tuesday from 2-4pm at the Age Concern Centre, Calle Paganini, La Siesta, Torrevieja. 96 678 6887. Everyone is welcome. Los Alcázares Digital Camera Club. Interested in photography? We invite you to come and join us at our twice monthly meetings. Please contact coordinatorladcc@ gmail.com or see http://www.los-alcazarescamera.club/ for details. COMMUNITY CARE ASSOCIATION (CCA) Open to residents of Orihuela Costa over 60 years of age. Located at the Centro Civico Alameda del Mar. Open 3 times a week for a programme of English speaking
Monday 18th - Sunday 24th December 2023
activities, support, information and advice with the support of Orihuela Council. Anyone wanting to join CCA social activities can pop along. Open 2pm -6pm Mondays and Thursdays, Wednesday 2pm - 5pm. You can register between 1pm & 2pm on those days, in the Cafe area where you will find Eva or Norah. email: oc.communitycare@gmail.com RAGS CLUB (previously Friendship Centre). Every Tuesday Lunchtime, From a Bun to a Banquet. At Graceys - upstairs La Zenia park in Lidl Carpark. COME AND PLAY RUMMIKUB. Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you with problem solving and well being for the over 50’s. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Home Visiting Team to visit a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee. Call into our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887. Or email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch now meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 5pm at the Lakeview bar/restaurant, Quesada. For more info contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on +44 7576 117 222, Secretary Steve Hemingfield 0n Mob/Whats 711 011 373 The RAFA Costa Blanca RMG is a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Assn. Contact with the RAFA and the RMG is via the RAFA website rafa.org.uk.
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CONSTRUCTION AND GENERAL BUILDING. For all building works large or small, phone 604 152 124 for quotes. We also specialise in pool leaks and repairs. (1010) Law Services: PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR, Solicitor, Debt Collections, Bad Tenants. 747 438 225
I am looking for an apartment to let. One or two bedrooms, fully furnished, one person only. Long term. Email brendan murphy: brendanmurphy609@gmail.com or call 00353 0872 586249
Several corgi buses boxed for sale. Also other items not with boxes. Los Montesinos. Call 744 617 883
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Baby Jesus is getting ready to leave Hospital by Car
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Children measuring less than 135 cm in height (which would obviously include newborns) must always travel by car restrained by approved restraint devices.
The new standard approved a few years ago is R129. In it, the restraint devices are approved depending on the height of the child, and there are no fixed groups.
They must travel in the rear seats of the car, except when this is impossible and there is no choice but to use the front passenger seat (for example, when the car has only two seats or when the rear seats are already occupied by other devices for children).
For newborns, the chairs that can be used are those in the lower range of the child's height, which starts at 40 or 45 centimetres.
There are two types of restraint systems on the market for transporting babies: carrycots and baby carriers.
hether you believe in the story or not is not important, because for our Christmas story, we are going to bring the tale of this celebrated birth and is now set to be taken home from the hospital by Mary and Joseph, in their car.
Regardless of the type you choose, make sure it is approved according to one of these two regulations (you will know this by an orange label that will be attached):
W
Okay, we admit it, we are using the time of year to make an important point about children in cars, and the need for them to be carried safely, and, therefore, legally.
The old regulation is ECE-R44-04. Devices approved under this standard cannot be sold after the end of 2024, but those that have been sold until then can continue to be used. First of all, Mary should not carry baby Jesus in her arms in the car, as it is prohibited, and puts the child at considerable risk in the event of a collision. Baby Jesus must be secured in an approved retention device.
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This standard divides seats based on the weight of the child. For newborn babies, those that can be used are those that include group 0, that is: group 0 (for children up to 10 kg in weight), group 0+ (for children up to 13 kg in weight), group 0+ /1 (for children up to 18 kg in weight).
On the website, n332.es, we explain some of the advantages and disadvantages of these options, but here we will explain in brief. It should be noted that only a few carrycots are approved to be used in the car. They must be provided with a harness to hold the child so that he does not get thrown around. If you buy it new, the store will tell you which models are for the car. Baby carriers are seats for children that are placed in the rear facing direction and that, normally, can also be attached to strollers. The normal age range is from birth until the baby is about 18 months. There are also car seats that are approved for a wide age range: from birth to 4 years, up to 7 years or even until the child measures 150 cm, that is, devices that cover the entire period of use of the child in a single product.
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PERCY’S RAMBLINGS CYCLE PATHS....
PEDAL POWER! It is a long time since I stretched my legs over a cycle crossbar to take my place on a saddle and pump away at the pedals. s I remember we used to go out in groups sometimes racing and other times just to tour around or ride through Epping Forest ducking our heads from the low tree branches, although one time I did not duck quick enough and came off backwards.
A
each direction, consequently the facility is used more by dog walkers than people on bikes who quite rightly, according to the Spanish highway code prefer to ride in lines of two or sometimes three abreast, grinning, at the queue of traffic held up behind them. (the grinning part is not in the code)
Never mind the blood, dust yourself off, get back on and continue riding.
Cycle lanes are in many places becoming the in-thing, with glowing indicating signs plus painted marking on the road, they are in some minds the proposed moment of the future waiting for the cyclist to start using them.
There was no such thing as a cycle helmet. My guess is the technology was not available to produce such things, the only accessory one needed was cycle clips to keep your slacks from getting entwined in the chain, that is if you wore long trousers. The bikes within the group were normally self-constructed models made from spare parts and all so different, some with drop handlebars and differing braking mechanism of questionable efficiency and no such things as gears, although they came along a little later. In some cases, there was no free wheel mechanism so one had to keep pedalling. If your foot slipped off the pedal, which was still going round propelled by the back wheel, it would give you a nasty chop on the muscle at the back of your leg. I almost said there were no such things as cycle lanes, but I would be wrong as in the thirties before the Second World War, when most small cars maximum speed was about forty-five miles per hour the Eastern Avenue was built, which was a dual carriageway going East out of London into the Essex countryside. When constructed it included paths for cyclists in each direction. It was a rare event to see them being used as such so eventually through lack of purpose the concrete surfaces broke up. Hondon de los Frailes is a lovely Spanish village inland from the Costa Blanca nestling in an elongated valley with tall mountains to each side, along its length other similar settlements not much larger than hamlets are within a few miles, or if you like Kilometres, between each other. Similarly, we have a cycle track on a short part of the road between our community and the next. It was erected on only one side of the road wide enough for a single lane in
In Benidorm and other Spanish cities, they have cycle tracks in the centre of the road, not to the side, marked out in red lines, although I have yet to see someone on a bike brave enough to use them. Then again traffic is legally restricted to 20 kph (12 mph) at that speed they are not going to be held up by someone on a bike, it’s the opposite and the vehicles will be holding the cyclist up. Let’s talk about trees, which have nothing to do with cycle lanes, but they will lead me back on to them in a minute. Apple trees are nothing like your oak version and nowhere near as pretty or outstanding, nevertheless if the local council decides they are important to the landscape, then cutting them down is an offence. A gentleman, Ismail Elmagdoub, who is a business development director and racehorse owner, found this out when he cut three of them down because the apples made his dog sick. He was fined eight thousand eight hundred pounds as the trees were in his garden which is part of a conservation area in the Cotswold's, perhaps Ismail, would have been better off teaching his dogs not to eat the apples. Fury as TfL (Traffic for London) begins work to remove Millbank's beloved palm tree as part of a green scheme to pave over a roundabout and make way for cycle lanes, they are also in the news in another part of London where a sixteen-year-old girl is left in tears after being clipped by a double-decker bus that struggled to squeeze through a road narrowed by them to make way for a new bike path.
In Plymouth the City Council has cut down 129 mature trees to replace them with a cycle trail despite opposition by the local community. Constantly in the news there are stories of more cycle paths being added to the landscape, the question is who is going to use all these so-called facilities, for certain ladies whose habit and way of life is to wear long skirts wont, most youngsters cannot wait to be old enough to apply for a driving license, they do not ride to school anyway as all the cycle sheds have been turned into football pitches, people approaching middle age with the first signs of arthritis are not going to throw their leg over two wheels. Then there are the people who do not ride a bike and do not want the risk of being on one. With cars being slowly driven from the streets and cycles becoming the norm, where would the storage of these machines be? Imagine the tenants in a block of flats and their need for mobility - they can’t leave their pride and joy outside over night as they will be pinched so they would have the daily struggle of carrying their two wheeled machine up and down stairs to be cherished in the living room. A very happy Christmas to everyone and a startling, positive New Year. Take care. www.facebook.com/percy chattey books.
HISTORIC SITE TO OPEN AS VIEWING POINT
Just two weeks after the demolition of the El Tintero bar kiosk in Torrevieja, it has been revealed that the provincial coastal department intend to finish the work with a repair to the concrete pavement, which has been partially damaged during the demolition, and reopen the site as a public viewpoint before Christmas. The El Tintero kiosk was demolished after its former owners lost the court battle to extend their stay in this place where fishermen once dyed their fishing gear. The Chazarra family had been there since they took the reins of the business in the 1950s with the administrative concession lasting until 2011. Costas' stated intention was always to demolish it, just as he already did with the José María kiosk on Playa del Cura.
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Around Torrevieja This Christmas Week In Torrevieja this week, there is ballet in the form of the Christmas favourite, The Nutcracker, which is in the Municipal Theatre on Wednesday. The UMT youth band of Torrevieja perform their Christmas Concert at the Palacio de la Musica on Thursday. Throughout the week in Torrevieja there are activities for the kids, then on Thursday, on the Paseo Vistalege, there will be Divertijoven on Paseo Vistalegre, at 5:30 p.m., before the action moves to the main stage in the Plaza de la Constitution for the Casa de Andalucía Christmas Zambomba,
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at 8:30 p.m. Christmas Zambomba, in case you don´t know, involves Christmas tunes accompanied by an instrument of the same name, a Zambomba, a kind of drum-looking instrument, very popular in the flamenco scene, which sounds a little bit like a tuneful elephant (not an insult). So, mix flamenco, singing, Christmas and elephants, and you know what to expect. A good time. On Friday, the kids can attend a workshop to help them write to Santa in La Mata at noon, and entertainment in the Plaza de la Constitución, where Lucía España will perform in the evening. However, with all of that so far, it is important not to peak your excitement too soon, as on Saturday, Santa Claus is coming to town, available in his house from 11:00, before joining in with the parade dedicated to the big man from 6:00 p.m. from the Virgen del Carmen Centre.
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It will then hopefully be an early night for Santa as he will be back in his house on Sunday, welcoming children, for which we sincerely hope he realises he has a big night ahead of him, and he will need to allow time to get back to the North Pole, pick up all of our gifts, and return before we wake up next day. It’s worth noting that Christmas Eve is not only an important day for Santa but is one of the most important days in the traditional Spanish celebrations, where families gather together for a late meal to celebrate. As such, shops close early and even many bars remain closed for the important time, in order to allow for that togetherness. Santa is also appearing in Guardamar throughout the week, again with a special celebration on Friday, and the Santa Train joining in the fun on Sunday. There’s also a student party on Friday.
The ADAPT Theatre Group raised 2000 euro for the AFEMAR charity in San Pedro
A GREAT TIME WAS HAD BY ALL THE ADAPT THEATRE GROUP is very happy to announce that our pantomime “Ali Baba and the Four and a Half Thieves” was a great success and performed to four sell-out audiences in the Casa de Cultura, San Pedro del Pinatar from 30th November to 3rd December. As usual there was a great mix of both Spanish and English speaking audiences and we are now expert in appealing to both languages and senses of humour to make sure that everyone has a great time. Both adults and children clapped and sang along to the musical numbers and participated in the obligatory boos and aahhs.
BUSY DECEMBER FOR THE MELODY MAKERS
And the best news, 2000 EURO was raised for the
The Melody Maker choir has been very busy raising money for charities this December, singing at various events. On the 7 December they sang at The Naval Association Torrevieja Christmas meal and raised money for the Age Concern Charity, then on the 15th December, they were singing at a Christmas event at the Marina Bar, Torrevieja, helping them raise funds for their charity.
1. UEFA European Championship, 2. Elton John, 3. Kill Bill: Volume 2, 4. Jimmy Connors (Australian Open 74, Wilson T2000), 5. Pele (1958), 6. Answer a. Cambodia, 7. Philippines, 8. The Hanoi Hilton, 9. American Psycho, 10. Answer b. Turkmenistan, 11. Hawaii (Hilo), 12. Humblebums, 13. Edward Teller, 14. Mars Attacks, 15. Answer c. copper (the name Cyprus is derived from an eteocypriat word for "copper"), 16. Cuvee, 17. Albert Hammond, 18. Oxygen, 19. Battle of Chicago (Transformers), 20. A Day In The Life
The Melody Makers are a friendly group of singers who meet for rehearsals every Tuesday, 2-4pm at The Lakeview Bar, Calle Tolledo, Quesada. We are always looking for new members, for further details contact lorraine.simpson@yahoo.co.uk or WhatsApp 633 75 17 73. Our next rehearsal in the New Year is Tuesday 23 January, so why not come along and meet us?
QUIZ FROM P 14:
AFEMAR charity in San Pedro which works with young people with mental health problems. This charity does tremendous work with people from all over the Mar Menor and is always in need to extra help. A big thank you to all your readers who came along and supported us and if anyone is interested in getting involved next year, please contact Eric on: 656 36 10 98 or e-mail: ericberg2@hotmail.com
SUDUKO SOLUTION
PAGE 20
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SAN LUIS BOWLS CLUB By Shela Cammack This week saw the last league matches for this half of the winter season. For the majority of us it’s a chance to recharge our batteries and for some, to catch up with friends and families over the festive period. This can include piling on the layers and heading back to brave whatever the UK weather throws at us. Hopefully the joy of catching up (& central heating) will keep us going until we return to the Spanish norm of blue skies and sunshine and looking forward to the start of the second half of the winter season in January. Good luck to those players who are staying here and participating in the “Winter Valencian Championships” during this December/January break. Southern League: on Friday 8th SL Leopards were away at Vistabella v Conquistadores. Unfortunately, the Leopards had to concede 1 trip, finishing 4 points-8, 62 shots-80. Winners: Judy Carroll, Gordon Paton, David Blackie 25-9, Ray Watmough, Ngaio Baldwin, Barbara Louis 17-10.
EMERALD ISLE BOWLS CLUB
the Winter league on Wed and they were also beaten 2-8 Aggregate of 52-81. N Prior K Whelan M Ellis C Lindgren 18-13
From all the Emerald Isle Bowls to all Opposition bowlers, have a great festive season and good bowling in 2024, well not too good maybe.
Titans played at Quesada Pearls and were beaten 2-19 Aggregate 80-92. P Heaney S Elvin D Mooney 18-6
The Annual Turkey Trot took place on Sunday and was won by Mick Ellis. Well done all to all those who took part. It was a great day.
SAPS will resume on Jan 6th at 1315, to all our friends who join us for SAPS enjoy the break.
Emperors played at BBC Bandits in
El Rancho Bowls Club Today the Raiders were at San Miguel playing their Orcas on a very hot morning. The long and heavy carpet, a lot different tom our home mat made it a little difficult for us to adjust, but hey that’s just the nature of the game.
ELWYN MORRIS
Cox, Francis Johnston and Mike Cox 15-21. Ron Greenstreet, Judy Foley and Marion Haynes 18-19. Val Ryder, Derek Barker and Henry Ryder 10-22. On Tuesday the Mustangs played the Greenlands Cedars in their postponed fixture, with just three rinks featured, with Cedars taking two rinks to Mustangs’ one.
We enjoyed the match, despite coming away without a point, though two of the rinks were just in the lead towards the latter end of the match.
Sheila Cox, Ron Greenstreet and Mike Cox 13-20. Bill Johnston, Ria Dukker and Henry Ryder 18-16. Frances Johnston, Derek Barker and Diane Yates 17-20.
We fielded a team one trip short for this final match of the year. Bill Johnston, Malc Sykes and Diane Yates 3-31. Sheila
Bowlers of all levels are welcome at El Rancho, for further membership information contact Sheila Cox
SAN MIGUEL BOWLS CLUB By BARRY JONES Only two teams in action this week leading up to the Christmas break. On Monday San Miguel Orcas were home to El Rancho Raiders where they had a resounding 12 - 0 win, 103 shots to 46. The best winning triple were Bob Nesbitt, Dave Young and Bill Brownlee 31 - 3. On Wednesday San Miguel were home to Country Bowls where they lost by 4 - 6, 58 shots to 74. The best winning rink was Dave Homer, Allen Patterson, Lynn Greenland and Fred Willshire with a victory by 17 - 13.
South Alicante League: Monday 11th SL Klingons were at home to Quesada Diamonds and had a good result, taking 8 points-4, 73 shots-64. Winners: Kath Reid, June & Keith Jones 15-14, Margaret & Neil Morrison, Ian Kenyon 21-14, unfortunately the Diamonds had to concede 1 trip. Winter League: on Wednesday 13th San Luis were at home to Greenlands, battling it out in a really close match; each club won 1 game and drew 2 more but when the last shot had come to rest and the close bowls had been measured, San Luis finished 61 shots-68, 4points-6. Winners: Kath Reid, Jane & Stewart Hamill, Ian Kenyon 17-16, Cathy Morrisroe, Bill Webb, Noel Morrisroe, Scott Malden 16-16, Pete Ayres, Mike Veale, June & Keith Jones 19-19. If you want to know more about bowling; come & see us; try out OPEN roll ups on Saturday morning (9:30/10:00) & Chicken/egg comp on Wednesday afternoon (1:30/2:00). Make new friends and have Fun!! On behalf of San Luis Bowls Club I would like to wish all of our wide community of bowlers a very happy Christmas and a very happy & healthy year in 2024.
A reminder that the Wasps sessions take place Wednesdays 1.30pm for 2.00pm - €5 for an afternoon’s bowling with shoes and bowls available to borrow. Due to the popularity of the Wasps, first time bowlers are asked to attend an initial coaching session on Tuesday afternoons, starting at 1.45pm, by appointment ONLY. To book, please call Dave or Lynn Greenland on +34 667 207 508. After the game on Wednesday 20th December the Wasps will close for the Christmas break and re-start on Wednesday 10th January 2024 We welcome all bowlers who would like to join San Miguel B.C. as we are a unique club we only pay owner fees and a club fee and NO LEAGUE RINK FEES. For further information on San Miguel B.C please contact club secretary Barry Jones on 602 504 905 or club president Alan Campbell on 606 676 118
by Pearl Houghton
The Gladiators were away to in-form San Luis and were very determined to achieve a victory which I'm pleased to say they got with a 6 to 4 win so well done one and all in the green machine you did the job this time. CONGRATULATIONs.
The Maples were at home to Vistabella and their mind was definitely on the job in hand and really played well achieving an 8 to 4 victory so well played keep it going after the Christmas break with winning ways Merry Christmas to you all ..
The CHESTNUTS had a rearranged game on Tuesday with El Rancho but unfortunately could not field a full side due to absentees with health problems but did well to win on 2 rinks losing to the other by 1 shot a true effort by everyone so well done 4points achieved.
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PAGE 21
VISTABELLA BOWLS CLUB WITH FREDDIE WILLEY South Alicante Enterprise Division Vistabella Albatrosses v Greenlands Maples (away match). Two good wins against a very strong side from Greenlands. Brian Gilham, Mo. Foulcer & Del Stevenson 20-14 plus Hilary James, Martin Foulcer & Alan Bannister 21-16. Overall scores 108pts to 80pts for Greenlands. Good win for Greenlands Maples 8-4. South Alicante Discovery Division -
Vistabella Drivers v Quesada Rubies (home) Only one very close win for Vistabella, well done Tony Grimes, Avril Kendall & Alan Gordon 16-15. Overall scores 123pts to 65pts. Quesada Rubies winning 10-2. Unlucky Vistabella tough game. We are now on a xmas break, so to all bowlers please have a safe and happy xmas and new year celebrations. See you in January. Contact: richardwilley321@gmail.com
CARP-R-US ANGLING It was touch and go whether to fish the Carp-rUs 14th December match, the last of the Summer/Autumn Series, on the Eden stretches of the Rio Segura or move it to Bigastro. An inspection the day before showed that the water was not too low but that both Eden 2 and Eden 3 stretches would need to be used. There were too many large rafts of bamboo blocking the swims to place everyone on just one section. Arriving for the draw, the water in Eden 2 had gone down overnight whilst that in Eden 3 remained about a foot deeper making its pegs the preferred ones with peg 6 being by far the deepest. Peg 6 was also drawn as the lucky peg and, true to form, Willy Moons drew it. The fishing proved very hard. The water dropped a good 6 inches during the match and its pace quickened. Trevor Morey on peg 3 caught a carp and barbel, plus miniscule mullet, during the morning but nothing in the afternoon. However, his bread punch and feeder tactic saw him win the Eden 2 section with 3.40 kgs. Meanwhile on Eden 3, no-one was catching. Then, immediately before the final whistle, Willy hooked a carp of over 4 kgs which with some small mullet on feeder and maggot gave him 4.98 kgs to win the section and be overall winner. Tony Flett was third with 3.08 kgs and Paul Burton fourth with 1.26 kgs.
ORIHUELA DISMISSES ÓSCAR SÁNCHEZ AS COACH Óscar Sánchez has been sacked as as coach of Orihuelaa CF, following a poor run of results in which they have gained just 2 points from the last 18, in group 4 of the Second Federation, and subsequently dropping down into the relegation zone. He arrived at Orihuela 2 years ago when the team was playing in the 3rd Federation, going on to guide them to promotion to the 2nd Federation finishing as champions in their group. The club started the current season well but in the last 6 weeks the Oriolano team has not won a game suffering four defeats, three of them at Los Arcos, along with two goalless draws away in Águilas and Estepona. The club was also knocked out of the Copa del Rey two weeks ago by Girona (2-5). In a letter to fans, Eloy Moreno, president of Orihuela, said that he will take measures "that will help us achieve the objective of finishing the season in play-off positions for promotion" to add that "I am not here to settle for simply not being relegated, because if that misfortune happens, I will have failed and will make way for someone else to lead the club." After the last defeat against Estepona (2-0) last Sunday, Orihuela has dropped into the relegation positions, so the board of directors now say that, in the best interests of the club, they had little choice other than to dismiss Óscar Sanchez. Appointment of new coach
This left Willy as the clear winner of the series with 262 pints with Tony runner-up with 249 pts.
Although not yet confirmed it seems that the new coach will be Sergi Guilló , who joined the first team a few weeks ago as second coach.
Further information about the club can be found on its website www.carp-r-us.weebly.com
The man from Elche has experience as assistant coach at Real Murcia and, in addition, he was also at Orihuela CF three seasons ago.
PAGE 22
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Woody La Siesta mascot with Jackie "Chocolate Cookies" Hughes and the Meredith girls.
Prize Winner Gail Mosley with Sponsor Ken Meredith, Granddaughter Alexandrea, Daughters Martina and Yvonne and Captain Dave Sounds illogical? Notso. This is the annual competition generously sponsored by one of our members, Ken Meredith, in memory of his beloved wife, May. As a sign of how revered Ken and his family are in the Society there was a full house for the event which kicked off early on a slightly chilly Campoamor thanks to the wind. Four ball followed four ball down the fairway as the competition got underway. As always, everyone was keen to stake their claim to a prize - even if it was “nearest the pin” or “longest drive” on
the 11 holes that carried some reward. The course was playing well however tricky it was made by the wind which always seemed to be in our faces no matter which tee box we were standing on ! Arriving at the 10th tee we were greeted by Ken’s family who had prepared some welcome refreshments. … these ladies certainly know how to treat us ….. Onwards with the back nine, often more difficult than the front - but surprisingly a number of players played it really well chasing down the main prizes. Back in the clubhouse with Ken and family in tow we enjoyed
TDLO Blind Triples Memorial 2023
Winners: Bliss, Ellie and Angie (clean sweep 2+2+3+3 - 10 Legs A slightly lower turnout this year did not deter the spirits of those that took part. All 8 league teams entered players, the final number totalling 30, keen and eager ladies. The beauty of this competition is that the blind draw means you get to play with ladies from other teams, adding to the fun and comradery of the night. President Pam Horton paid homage to the sad passing of our fellow darters that we lost since our last memorial competition: Karen Winter, Paula Smith, Geoff Lloyd in whose wife´s name we play the Knock-Out Shield and also keen darter, Mick McGivern who helped us out with measuring throw lines and putting up boards. This season the numbers leant themselves to a Round Robin competition, with three groups of three teams playing on 3 boards, the 10th team having been eliminated in an initial playoff. All but one of the 8 league teams had someone to root for in the 3 finalist triples, winners of their preliminary groups. First up, Group A winners: Tipsy Tiger Pat Schofield (92, 100), Primadonna Mitch Halliday (82,D18) and Wacky Allsort Chris Greenwood (121, D4) took a 2-0 lead on Group B´s Gap Girlz Bliss Wright, Friendly Temp Ellie Attwood and Ladybird
Angie Mullen. If they could have taken the 3rd leg of the best of 5 format, they would have seen themselves the overall winners. Bliss Wright, never to get flustered, put paid to that with D8 then D16-D8 and the 3rd and 4th legs, with little Ellie crushing group A´s hopes with D4 in the 5th. Miss Wright´s trio could do no wrong thereafter, surging to a 3-0 victory (Bliss 10-D10; D2, Angie Mullen (D4) over group C´s winners: Ladybird-Kirsty Green, Friendly Chica and hot-scorer Helen Bushell (92, 80+ x4) and Friendly Temp - Ann Wharton (79). In the decider for 2nd and 3rd place, Group A´s Pat (121), Mitch (88, D2) and Chris (D2) nailed legs 1 and 3 which meant that Kirsty (D3) in the 2nd couldn´t beat them, with just 2 more legs up for grabs. A well organised and very enjoyable night was had by all with big thanks to the Simon, Dave and Amanda of the Friendly Bar for looking after us; To Kim York-Fickling and her amazing raffle prizes and to everyone who came to play, organise or support. NB: Wacky Allsorts are still looking to recruit new lady players from the New Year. Please contact Captain Shirley Stephenson 609878806 for more information.
the sunshine and a few beers. Nice to see some new names on the winners’ rostrum and how close could it possibly get ? Four players on 36 points so the places decided on handicap. In fifth place was Rose Cox, fourth Rob Bacon, third Dave O’Reilly and second Brian Taylor. Winning the May Day trophy this year was Gail Mosley with 38 points - well done Gail. Another successful venture. Our thanks go to Ken and the girls for their time, support and refreshments on the 10th. It is very much appreciated.
THE CELTS XMAS HAMPER. Another year ends with The Celts and the annual Christmas Banquet. What a day of celebration was had by all. From the early morning shotgun start with 80 players spread out around the course on a glorious sunny day. The golf course was set up in excellent condition and we would like to thank Miguela and all the team for the course layout and the greens, oh the greens, fantastic, that is all we can say. Enhorabuena. To Camillus, Terry, Alan, and Philip again the competition worked like clockwork, keep up the good work. To the staff in the golf shop, Jose, Michael and Jean, many thanks for your assistance not just yesterday but throughout the year. With the golf completed we had enough time to put on the glad rags for the evening. First up was the general meeting followed by the party. To our host Jackie, many thanks for making the night such a success and you have found a new hidden star, with the Shangalang Bay City Roller. The Banquet was truly exquisite, and we must thank all in the restaurant and kitchen. Marijose and her team, Gloria, and the two Vanessas, well done. Our new Captain Dave Stockton was on hand to make his first presentation of prizes for the new season, thank you. The results of the golf were, NTP’s Ian McCormack and Alisdair McLean, Steve Formby and Dave Stockton, Sue and Gary Conroy, Lynne McCormack and Carmel
Winners: Camillus Fitzpatrick and Philip Mountford.
McShea, John O’Brien and Denis McCormack, Shaun Lock and Nick Shaw. We should also recognise that Camillus held out his 6 iron to the 9th hole for a hole in one. Congratulations and the members really appreciated their cup to celebrate with you. The Hamper prizes were awarded as follows. Stuart Bulling and Alex McIntyre 66.55, Dave Stockton and Steve Formby 66.45, Wrnfried Stuhlpfarrer and Tony Burns 66.2, Alisadir McLean and Ian McCormack 66.1, the runners up were Sue and Gary Conroy with 64.5 and the winners on the day with the fantastic score of 62.2 Camillus Fitzpatrick and Philip Mountford. Congratulations to all the winners. Happy Christmas to all our Celt members, their families and friends.
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LEAGUE RESULTS 14 DECEMBER DIVISION 1 El Capitan CC's Bees Milo's Freakie Taverners Leeson St Trotters
6-6 4-8 4-8 0-12 8-4
Tipsy Toad Toppers Hub Hyenas Domino's Doms Mind The Gap CK1 Lads
DIVISION 2 CK1 Ladybirds 5-7 Domino's Desperados 2-10 Hub Hellraisers 5-7 Tipsy Toad Tiaras 9-3 Tasty Taverners 3-9
Danny's Bar Fire Station Fallen Angels Pint Depot Queens Illy's Oldies
LEAGUE TABLES DIVISION 1 Domino's Domignomes Mind The Gap Tipsy Toad Toppers Hub Hyenas El Capitan CC's Bees Leeson Street Trotters CK1 Lads Milo's Freakie Taverners
P 9 9 9 8 8 9 9 9 9 9
Pts 17 16 13 10 9 9 6 5 3 0
legs 75 81 72 58 58 55 45 40 29 17
DIVISION 2 Fire Station Danny's Bar Illy's Oldies Fallen Angels Domino's Desperados CK1 Ladybirds Tipsy Toad Tiaras Hub Hellraisers Tasty Taverners Pint Depot Queens
9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9
16 16 14 12 10 8 6 6 4 0
79 71 73 59 55 56 47 36 45 21
180’S: Pete Spencer x2, Ricardo Perez x2, Jane Kelly, Paul Christopher, Dave Rowlinson MOST 180’S: Andres Liamazares x4, Pete Spencer x4, Ricardo Perez x4 HIGH FINISHES: Nigel Justice 91, Ricardo Perez 87 HIGHEST FINISH TO DATE: Dave Askew 160
DIVISION 1 EL CAPITAN V TIPSY TOAD TOPPERS Graham Solomans kept Toppers in the hunt for honours with a 12th leg victory over Ed Klimonis and a valuable point. What had everyone buzzing though, was Pete Spence's 3rd leg decider over Moises Bujan. The Topper hit 180.180, wiring his 7th arrow on the T20 for a potential 9 darter. Missing the opportunity, his 12th dart however found the required double for a 1-2 victory and plenty of
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FREAKIE TAVERNERS V By MIND THE GAP Paul Not too many Durrant whitewashes, in the Serenity league, this unfortunately was one of them. Just 7 three figure scores from a lowly Freakies, three from the arm of Tony Garcia, meriting POTM. back slapping. Paul Moody again making a name for himself with As expected the match was close 3-3 at half time, 3x140,125, 3x100 and 5 outs, Carlos Escansiano great performances from "Caps" Andres 2x121,2x140 and James Brown earning POTM with Liamazarez 2x100,135,2x140, Liam Lumb, 11x81+ and 2x100. A healthy addition to their leg total, 100,123,140 and "Toppers" Solomans, 3x100,140, which may prove crucial. Andy Rutter 2x100,140 and Dale McGuiness LEESON ST. TROTTERS V C.K. 1 LADS 5x100,137. Trotters never looked like losing this one after taking 5 The singles went the same way 6 points shared for of the 1st 6. Lads mustering just 6 tons, 4 from the the draw. Top 3 figure scorers "Liama" with 9, steady hand of Steve Dalton. Trotters 3 figure efforts Lumb 7, McGuiness 9, Spence 8, Solomans 6. from Barry Shingler 3, Billy Dolling 3, Alex Nikolov 3. POTM - Liama - McGuiness. The hosts claimed the match by taking the 1st 2 singles C.C.BEES V HUB HYENAS via Ken Skinner 100,140 and Nikolov, Dalton gaining Lads 3rd leg in a high scoring 3 leg encounter with Shingler. Dolling nailed the hosts 8th in 2 legs inc 100,120,140. The remaining 2 matches going to Lads John Crabbe and Paul Green. POTM - Dolling - Dalton.
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White 4x80+, 121, D8 and James Mackay 83,78,105, D8 keeping Angels in the game. Andy Forest contributing 2x100. Raisers 1st half leg winners Linda Davies, Ali Scammell and Carol Peace unable to repeat their exploits, only Cheryl McGlynn nailing 2 outs the 2nd in the closing leg. Angels reeled off the 1st five singles for both points, Forest providing 100,100,99,D6 over Linda Davies, Mike Tierney banging in a D10 against a lively Sue Spiers, 121 for the 7th winning leg. POTM - Carol Rowland - White. TASTY TAVERNERS V LLLIES OLDIES Oldies found themselves 5-0 up in no time, Tasties struggling to find any form. Surprisingly all 5 legs from different players, Tony Jesson, Brian Abbey, Pete Gibson, Eric Allworthy and "Tesco Steve", the latter also finding scores of 4x80+ and 2x100. Tasties Henni Oortwijn claiming the 6th leg with a D5 after 81,93. Tastie Jayne Cahill added a 2nd after match resumption on D7, Allworthy outing on 60 to ensure a point for Oldies, in reply. Sharon Williams 98,100, D11 made it 63 and a well deserved POTM accolade. Larry Hodson 81,118,D4 got Oldies over the line, Jesson putting in a POTM effort in the 11th leg with 3x85, 119,D18. TIPSY TOAD TIARAS V PINT DEPOT QUEENS
DIVISION 2. C.K. 1 LADYBIRDS V DANNYS BAR Dannys remain hot on the heels of table toppers Station after a real ding dong with the lovely ladies of C.K.1. Who won what points not determined until the last leg of the evening, the privilege going canny Bob POTM Paul and Dave Smith's way on D8. Dave Rowlinson opened for Hub with 140,99,80 Honours shared after six, the match evenly poised after out, hitting a further 140 and out in the 3rd. 2 outs from Birds Dons Ralph, a 120 from Sandra Sandwiched between was a Paul Christopher Crabbe and a 95,121 fromPat Woods. In response 180,100, 85 out for 1-2. The pairs went the same Dannys had 3x100, D20 from Smith,and further tons way for 2-4, Reg Christopher and Richie from Steve Lumb and Paul Rafael plus a D4. McSweeney 123,97, their winning pair Reg C. findSimon Perryman 81,140,85,D9 edged out Pat Woods ing both doubles. 138,100,85, in leg 7, Ralph squaring the game with a Matt Dawson extended the visitors advantage showboat DI,D19 out. Dannys nailing 3 of the remaining adding a 140, Rowlinson ensuring at least a draw, 4 for the game and points. POTM - Woods - Perryman. nailing 2x100,2x140,180 in his 0-2 victory, for POTM. DOMINOS DESPERADOS V FIRE STATION Dario Sierra 2x100,99,137, secured both points in a real 3 leg tussle with Reg C. Paul C. 5X100,120 Despos were in this match at the half way stage, and 76 out was awarded POTM for an excellent despite being 2-4 down, both outs coming from Steve victory over Andre Wing. Harding. Heavy Station scoring from Robbie Monks 100,140, MILOS V DOMINOS DOMINGNOMES Tim Goodacre 140,97,81 and Rob Sturvivant 100,125 The hosts found themselves 4-2 up following the the difference between the two. pairs, Sam James 119,121,125, Antonio Lara, The visitors however had it all their own way after the 123,125, Gnomes Nigel Justice 5x100,140, Matt break winning all 6 singles, the best of which a match Smith 3x100,140 and Ricky Perez 100 and 7x Ton winning D4, following a 180 from POTM Jane Kelly and plus. an 8th win from Tim Goodacre 136,108,85, D7. Despos Gnomes applied pressure in the 2nd half winning Ray Hayes, 125,85, Colin Kernahan 121,97 and POTM all 6 singles Cain Garcia the only Milo winning a - Paul Chick 85,100,95, unable to stem Station's "Fire leg with some impressive scoring. Perez upped his Power". game (yes upped it) banging in 2 more tons, 137 HUB HELLRAISERS V FALLEN ANGELS 2x180, his 2nd leg 97,180,137,T17,D18 (97 out) for 11 darts. A total of 13 tons for POTM absolutely All round good scoring from Raisers enabled the hosts outstanding. James - Milos POTM. to have an unexpected 4-2 half time lead. Graham
Lorraine and Graham A great night for both ladies teams, the hosts leading the Queens 4-3 on ton plus scores but the visitors outdoing them 10-6 on the 80+´s, resulting in some good tussles for each leg. The Tiaras were relieved to find themselves 5-1 at the sausage sarnie stage. Missing a couple of their regulars, Tracey Simpson was pulled off the reserves bench and invited along to work her magic. Not having thrown a dart for a year, she delivered with aplomb, scoring a 125 and supplying two finishes to earn herself POTM. Good work too from Tiaras Lisa Ivill (85, 121, D7, D18) and Marylin McDowell (95, 122, 114 D2, D1) with Pat (D1), Sharon Crane (D20) and Simone (D4) adding to the tally. The Queens also had to resort to back benchers and brought in Lorraine´s husband Graham (101) but no glory in the doubles. The Mrs lobbed a Tracey and Marie 120 while he wasn´t looking and ended the match with a 9-D20. POTM for their highnesses was Marie Dunne (117, D1, D5).
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