The Leader Newspaper 16 Jan 23 - Edition 954

No 954 Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd January 2023

637 227 385 office@theleader.info

Keeping people safe and informed for over 18 years - The Costa Blancaís oldest ëFREEíEnglish language newspaper

ORIHUELA COSTA’S RACER BOY

Aseven-year old Orihuela Costa schoolboy is gearing up to take part in a series of major motocross events across Europe

Isaac Beecham hopes to build on a successful 2022, in which he was declared Champion of the Murcia Community, as he prepares to take on Europe’s elite boy racers at events across Europe in the coming months.

The youngster, who started riding at just four years of age, will compete in the Euro MX GP Series, in Spain, Germany, the Czech Republic and Germany, against 40 of the continent’s top riders, as he aims to build on his triumphant 2022 season, racing locally, where, just two weeks ago, he was confirmed Champion of the Murcia Region, in the 50cc Category 1 Professional classification.

Speaking to The Leader, proud mum Christina, told of Isaac’s obsession with two wheels from the time he could barely walk. “He was riding a bike even before his second birthday and was absolutely transfixed by stunt riders, every time he saw them on television. He loved trying to do the tricks and the jumps himself, and as his skills improved the demands on father Andreas, to build bigger and more difficult obstacles in the garden, just got greater”.

By the time Isaac was four he had progressed to powered bikes, and with the family purchase of a 50cc Motocross bike he began to attend regular training sessions with former pro racer Adrián Garrido and his colleague Carlos Macanas.

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His riding skills and technique quickly improved at the thrice weekly sessions, and by the start of the 2021 season the Playas de Orihuela schoolboy was ready to make his competitive racing debut.

In his first season, as the youngest biker in the series, Isaac had some success, but, in May of that year, he suffered a serious accident in a race in Abanilla, losing all of his front teeth, and receiving a major impact to the head. Initially he was hospitalised in Murcia prior to being suspended from riding because of a medical restriction for a further 4 weeks, but just as soon the restriction was lifted, and he was able to get back in the saddle, he was back out with his coaches, finishing his debut season with far more experience and much, much wiser.

Still the youngest rider in his 2022 Murcia GP Category, Isaac was now much more aware of the dangers, and as his skills and confidence continued to develop, at the end of the seven-race series, he found himself at the top of the leaderboard by a massive 10 points.

Mother Christina couldn’t be prouder. “He’s worked very hard to achieve his success but now he

is just itching for more, this is why we were advised to enter him in the Euro MX GP Series where he will move up into the 65cc category on a geared, electric bike, but against much stiffer competition.”

Up until now all of Isaacs racing has been on automatic machines so, in order to continue his development, it was necessary for mum and dad to lay out almost €5,000 on a new 65cc electric racer.

Although, during the 2022 season, Isaac continued to race on the automatic bike, his thrice weekly training sessions were always on his new geared electric racer. “It is important that he gets to know his new bike, and more importantly that he is able to move between the gears confidently and efficiently”, said Christina. “He now has more than just the speed of the bike to contend with, particularly going into, and racing out of the corners, with the gear selection absolutely critical. One missed gear could lose him 2 or 3 places so changing up and down needs to be second nature to him if he is to continue his success and his development in Europe.”

Domestically, Isaac will also move from the Murcia GP Series into Valencia where he hopes to mir-

DEMAND OVERWHELMS EDUCATION IN O/COSTA

The two Orihuela Costa Infant and Primary schools "Los Dolses" and "Playas de Orihuela" have no more capacity to take on new students, largely arising from the ongoing influx of Ukraine and Russian families so, just prior to Christmas, the Conselleria de Educación ordered the construction of Orihuela School Number 20. It will be the third Infant and Primary school in Orihuela Costa and will open in September, later this year. However, because of the

ror last year’s achievements on home soil.

Christina continues, “Including the European races, for which we have a €5k budget, Isaac will compete in up to ten races across the length and breadth of the Valencian Community during the May – December season, but it won’t be easy. We haven’t had a holiday in 5 years as every spare cent that we are able to put aside is used either supporting Isaacs motocross passion or ten-year-old daughter Isabel’s love of horses.” “Isaac does have sponsors of course, from KTM Alicante, Spanish Costa Homes and Amps

urgency, the school will be constructed prefabricated form with a capacity for around 400 pupils.

The building will be erected on the former plot of the CEIP Playas de Orihuela, which was also a prefabricated construction, used by children for over 16 years, on Calle Níspero, next to Avenida de las Brisas. However a new brick built school will follow in due course, understood to have already been budgeted for although specific details are not known, apart from the fact that it will be constructed on a municipal plot in Dehesa de Campoamor, in the inland area of the coast.

Competing last year at a Motocross event in Murcia. Isaac was six-years of age at the time

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Electrical Engineers, but it is a very expensive sport, so we are always seeking out additional support. We can provide advertising space on Isaac’s bike, his clothing or on his Instagram account, where he already has over 9,000 followers (@Isaac28mx), all at a very reasonable contribution, so if there is any reader or business that would like to help, please call me on 610 916 068 and I will provide all the detail.”

Alternatively Christina has also set up a GoFundMe page at: https://gofund.me/f185f378 where potential contributors can help.

Journalists 600 228 616 office@theleader.info

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

The former CEIP Playas de Orihuela

LA ZENIA CHRISTMAS DAY BEACH PARTY UNDER THREAT

Christmas Day celebrations that take place every year on the Cala Bosque beach (La Zenia) in Orihuela Costa are under threat after they were held without the permission of the Provincial Directorate of Coasts (Costas).

This has emerged in a response received by Councillor Dámaso Aparicio (PP) to a question addressed to the Councillor for Beaches, Antonio Sánchez (Cs), who stated that no request to hold the event was sent to the Costas.

The day brought together thousands of people who packed one of the most popular beaches in Orihuela with their smoky barbecues, plentiful consumption of alcoholic beverages, prohibited by law if it is an unauthorized public domain event, loud music and fancy dress.

It is a party that did not have an official permission but that proved to be great attraction, having been celebrated spontaneously for almost 20 years, and is now a tradition for the thousands of foreign residents who live on the Orihuela coast. As it’s popularity has grown over the years, the Local Police and the Civil Guard have always been on hand to regulate traffic, but the City Council failed to request permission from Costas to use the beach for an activity other than bathing. Nearly 20 years ago it all began with an impromptu concert by ‘Just Brass’, a local brass band, that was attended by 2 or 300 people. As they returned year after year the popularity grew with little organisation and absolutely no council involvement until 2018 when the PP/C’s coalition government forced out ‘Just Brass’ imposing their own council

arranged entertainment at the event. Their involvement lasted just 2 years as the event was then cancelled because of the onset of Covid-19.

However, with beach activities getting back to normal during the summer of 2022, the new PSOE/C’s coalition government failed to pick up on the event, despite the fact that many of them had been directly involved in it’s arrangements during previous years, so on Christmas Day, with plenty of pre event publicity on social media pages, the festivity went ahead once again, attracting many thousands to the macro party held on La Zenia beach. Although not specifically mentioned it would seem that the question raised by Cllr Aparicio was instigated as a result of the damage caused by revellers in the areas where vegetation is recovering in the protected dunes, where the Coastal administration itself has made a significant investment by way of it’s preservation, an area that was used and trampled over by the constant passage of visitors, despite the fact that the area was visibly cordoned off, albeit only with plastic tape. Local administrations do not usually request permission for beach parties that they don’t promote themselves and despite the repeated success of Christmas Day on La Zenia Beach, apart from 2 or 3 years prior to Covid, they have always looked the other way, totally ignoring the celebration.

Costas too ignore the event, to avoid the almost certain rejection of any request, so that neither the municipality nor the Ministry are held responsible for the consequences.

As one local resident wrote on a post last week, “Ridiculous, we have lived here for 17 years and always gone to La Zenia on Christmas Day. Our councillors should be more concerned about the damage being done by the sewage that flows onto the beaches every time there is an episode of heavy rain, a story that never fails to attract negative International headlines.”

PANIC OVER LOW EMISSION ZONES

Tiger mosquitoes carrying deadly diseases flourish this mild winter

Tiger mosquitoes, known to carry serious diseases, have extended their presence in Spain due to the mild autumn and winter weather.

The species typically becomes active in April and disappears in midNovember, but with higher temperatures, they have been more prevalent.

To check which sticker you need to display visit the website: https://sede.dgt.gob.es/es/vehiculos/distintivo-ambiental/

There has been growing panic over the introduction of Low Emission Zones, or Zonas de Bajas Emisiones (ZBE), to give them their correct term, largely due to a change in the law that came into force on 1 January this year. If you are confused about the whole thing, you are not alone. A survey carried out by the Alphabet mobility company revealed that half of Spanish drivers are just as much so. Firstly, to be clear, this is not a new concept, even in Spain. These zones have been active in places like Madrid and Barcelona for many years now. What changed this year is that municipalities with more than 50,000 residents are now obliged to create these zones. Nationally, there are now some 149 towns and cities where ZBE’s will be in place, 15 of which are in the Valencia region.

Across the Valencia region, the towns affected (in population order) are: Valencia, Alicante, Elche, Castellón de la Plana, Torrevieja, Torrent, Orihuela, Gandia, Paternal, Benidorm, Sagunto, Alcoy, San Vicente del Raspeig, Elda, and Villarreal. When these zones are created, certain vehicles will not be permitted to drive in the designated areas, which will be clearly marked by a road sign specifically created for this purpose, unless they are displaying the appropriate environmental badge, or eco sticker. Failure to comply will result in a fine of 200 euro. To be clear, you can only enter the zone if your vehicle is displaying the sticker indicated on the sign. If you do not have a sticker, or you have a sticker which is not indicated, you will be sanctioned. You will also be fined if you try to display a sticker which is not valid for your vehicle.

Generally speaking, vehicles with labels A, B and C will have restricted access in certain cities due to the application of the new law. If you want to check which sticker your vehicle is classed as, you can visit the website at the top of the page and put your registration number in the box, then click the button. If your vehicle is not entitled to a sticker, and therefore banned, it will tell you. Otherwise it will tell you which category your vehicle falls into. This is just for information though, you don’t need to ask for a specific type when you

obtain one, as the issuing body will know based on the information in your logbook. But, and this bit is equally important, stop panicking! The law which came into force obliges town halls to create the zones, but the vast majority of them around the country have not even yet even started the process. You only need to display the sticker if you are planning to enter one of these zones, which, for the most part, do not yet exist. As a driver, you are obliged to check and respond to all road signs and signals, and this concept is no different. Look for the signs and act accordingly. If you don’t have a sticker, don’t enter, but, as we say, the majority of towns do not yet have these zones.

Once you know you qualify, you can obtain your eco sticker by presenting your logbook and ID at one of the issuing bodies, such as the post office (although supplies of some have been running low in places), from the correos.es website, the network of workshops of the Confederación Española de talleres (CETRAA) and other networks of authorised workshops, Gestores Administrativos, the Instituto de Estudios de Automoción (IDEAUTO) and in the case of fleets, the badges can be obtained through the Ganvam association.

Currently neither Torrevieja nor Orihuela have confirmed which streets will be branded as low emission zones.

Torrevieja are expected to do so toward the end of the first quarter while in Orihuela nothing will be decided until after publication of the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan which is still a month or so away. At this stage neither town has anything in place.

If you would like to know the area affected in your town, and when the legal obligations of the town hall will be obliged with, contact your local town hall direct, otherwise, keep looking for the signs.

The Tiger mosquito can transmit tropical diseases such as dengue fever, chikungunya, or the Zika virus.

Spain warns Covid-19 restrictions could return after spike in cases

People traveling to certain parts of Spain may soon face restrictions due to a spike in COVID-19 cases. Spanish health officials had recently lifted some COVID-19 restrictions to boost tourism.

In Andalucia an expert committee will meet this week to discuss new measures

In October, it was announced that UK arrivals no longer had to show proof of vaccination or a negative test.

Which food items have become expensive due to inflation?

December set a new record with food prices growing by 15.7%, the highest interannual rate since 1994.

The foods that have seen the greatest increases in price are sugar and butter, with prices rising by 50.6% and 42.3% respectively compared to the previous year.

Almost 30 foods are more than 10% more expensive than a year ago, including dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, and whole milk.

Shakira mocks footballer ex Pique in song that breaks YouTube records

A new song by singer Shakira,in which she mocks her former partner footballer Gerard Pique,has generated 63mn views on YouTube in 24 hours,making it the most-watched new Latin song in the platform's history.

Shakira and Pique,a former football player,separated last year after over a decade together and have two children.

The song is a collaboration with Argentinian producer and DJ Bizarrap.

VALENCIAN FESTIVAL MAY RESTRICT FIREWORKS TO AID DISTRESSED PETS

Valencia's Fallas festival in February and March could potentially have a "quiet zone" during which firecrackers cannot be set off, to offer some respite for both humans and their pets.

Valencia Mayor Joan Ribo has indicated he will look at the possibility of a daily time slot when firecrackers cannot be set off. The festival starts on 26 Feb.

Wizz Air end flights from Cardiff Airport to Spain

By Andrew Atkinson

"There have been positive booking trends and very strong passenger demand to travel from Cardiff in 2022 and current booking trends for 2023 remain similar.

"We have been working closely with the airline since 2020 and their latest indications to us, were that summer bookings are ahead of this time last year, so we see their decision as surprising," they said.

They added that passengers affected can still fly to the destinations, as TUI, Ryanair, KLM

and Vueling remain in operation. Anyone affected can get a 120 per cent refund in airline credit, 100 per cent cash refund or fly via an alternative airport.

In 2022 Wizz Air carried more than 100,000 passengers to and from Cardiff Airport.

Wizz Air was also once the largest operator at the now-closed Doncaster Sheffield Airport. However, it pulled out in June 2022, leaving just TUI flights remaining. The UK airport closed for good in October 2022.

Wizz Air is stopping all flights from Cardiff Airport this month - including to Spain - after the company said it is closing itís Welsh base.

Wizz Air UK managing director Marion Geoffroy said: "The challenging economic environment and high operational costs, including fuel, mean that we are unable to continue operating from Cardiff Airport. "We sincerely apologise to our customers in Wales and the southwest of England for the disruption and inconvenience this will cause."

Wizz Air said last year it was cancelling most of its Cardiff flights, until April 2023, due to "economic pressures", despite only launching flights back in April 2022.

The Hungarian airline had originally planned eight services for summer 2023, with destinations including Spain, Greece and Portugal. These will no longer go ahead.

Wizz Air currently operates Cardiff flights to Milan and Bucharest, although these will end by January 25.

Wizz Air continues to fly from eight other UK airports, including London Luton, London Gatwick and Birmingham.

ACardiff Airport spokesperson said they were "deeply disappointed" that the airline was to cease operations.

"It is regrettable that Wizz Air has cited the economic climate as its reasons for withdrawing its operations out of Cardiff.

DON’T COMPLICATE MATTERS

Keep things simple, I always say. The famous equation E = mc2 could be much more simply stated as "Energy equals 2 squares of milk chocolate." Job done.

But that was clearly beyond a complicated man like Albert Einstein. He might even have added, "Be sure to clean your teeth afterwards," as I always do when explaining my new theory, but then I'm possibly a bit more thoughtful than Einstein, and it's kind of you to say so.

The difficulty with trying to keep things simple is that many everyday facts and experiences aren't really as they seem to our five senses, or your sixth sense if you're like me. It takes light, for example, time to reach us, so we actually see things as they looked a little bit earlier.

This can range from seeing clouds in the sky as they looked a millionth of a second ago, to seeing the North Star as it looked 434 years ago. Who says you can't see into the past? Come to think of it, I wasn't alive 434 years ago. Might I disappear if I stare too long at the North Star? It's complicated, mainly thanks to my scientific ignorance.

Our pal Einstein worked out that if you run around in a circle, you'll age more slowly. I often feel I've been running around in circles all my life, but I can't say I feel all that much younger, only permanently dizzy.

Even the great detective Sherlock Holmes was guilty of overthinking things at times. Once when he went camping on Dartmoor with Dr Watson, Holmes looked up at the night sky and began making elaborate deductions in his inimitable way: "Millions of stars, some will have planets, a few will certainly have life, what do you

Companies must pay for glasses

Employers must now cover the cost of prescription glasses or contact lenses for those employees who need them to correct the deterioration of their vision and be able to continue working in front of a computer screen.

This has been announced by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in a recent sentence in which it answers a preliminary ruling from a Romanian court.

It is not necessary that the vision disorder has been caused by the use of the screens.

Torrevieja Carnival to parade through Madrid

The Torrevieja Carnival will parade through the centre of Madrid on Wednesday, starting at 5p.m.

It will be shown live on Televisión Torrevieja (TVT) and through tvtweb.es, as well as through the Facebook profile of the Torrevieja City Council This will be the first time that the Torrevieja carnival parades through Madrid, displaying all the music and colour of the city and coinciding with the International Tourism Fair (FITUR).

IVAReduction on food to be guaranteed says Calviño

think, old chap?" Watson, always the blunt instrument, simply said, "I think someone has stolen our tent, Holmes."

It is an undeniable fact that some people prefer complexity to simplicity. Chess players and crossword enthusiasts come to mind, and of course most men are intrigued by the mystery of women, about whom most men know next to nothing. Or more precisely, nothing.

Some of my favourite simple things were introduced to me by my schoolteachers.

"Words have meaning because we all agree on their meaning." (Are you following me so far?) And "English grammar is simple, i before e except after c. But not always." And even more useful -- "There is always an increase in disorder, known as 'entropy', meaning you can never return to the same energy state." I thought that was simply old age. But I should have known it would turn out to be more complicated than that. I'm going to revert to running around in circles again, it's easier.

Following last week’s announcement by FacuaConsumers in Action claiming that seven supermarket chains are not passing on the IVA reduction on those foods affected by the Government's measures to alleviate the impact of inflation the Minister of Economic Affairs, Nadia Calviño, announced that the Government and CNMC will now meet to discuss a method that will guarantee the IVA reductions in the final price of food.

6.5% of population have refused Covid Jab

A study by the UOC published in the Scientific Journal PLOSONEshows the reluctance of people to receive the Covid injection during the vaccination programme of Spring/Summer 2021, including both the general public and healthcare professionals, exceeded 6.5% of the population.

Maad is a 3 month old, medium-cross who would go mad for a forever family.

He is fully vaccinated, passport and microchipped.

For more info 966 71 0047 / 688792515 info@satanimalrescue.com

In praise of An Post..

For nigh on two centuries few intuitions have served our country with greater benefits than has our postal service. Emails and texting may have replaced a lot of postage stamps and given us a means of instant communication, but our postman continues to play a vital role in our society and the men and women who deliver our mail continue to be held not only in high esteem, but with great affection as well.

This is probably truer in Ireland, where we have had such a long history of emigration and the letter from family member abroad kept the family together. The postman was that link and was regarded as a friend of the family at every doorstep on his round.

The Irish postman develops a unique knack of making sure that every envelope finds its way to the sender’s intended destination. The ‘not known at this address’ or ‘insufficient address’ will only be used when every other avenue has been exhausted.

There are countless examples of An Post personnel and their predecessors going the extra mile in order to ensure that a letter reaches its intended target – even in this helter-skelter world of today.

We have all heard of the most extraordinary mysteries of how items posted with hardly any address manage to find its way into the right person’s hand. I am about to give you another example of An Post getting it right where you would think it couldn’t be done. Last week I received a card and letter addressed to me at; ‘YOU

CAN’T BE SERIOUS’, MULLINGAR, CO WESTMEATH.’

The card was sent by a man who read some of these columns and wanted me to know how much he enjoys them. It was posted in Castlebar. He didn’t know where I live, but he knew that the articles originate in Mullingar.

The envelope arrived in my letter box in Graftonstown, without any ‘try this’, ‘forward’ or even a solitary biro mark added by anybody, Take a bow, An Post!!

My brother, Camillus, lives in Westport where he is known as ‘Cosmo’ – in order to protect his identity, one assumes. A few years ago, Camillus met an English fisherman in McGing’s Bar. They got to talking, as fishermen do and engaged in friendly discourse, accompanied by ‘a sociable few.’

After the tourist returned to the UK, he regretted not having taken my brother’s address so he could meet him again on his next fishing expedition. The Englishman said to his wife; ‘Blimey (or a word to that effect) sure everybody seems to know everybody in Ireland’, and he wrote to Camillus addressed to ‘Cosmo, Westport, Ireland.’ And I know this story is true, because I saw the envelope!

The first postman that I knew and loved was Jack Daly. Impeccably dressed in his pressed uniform and peaked cap, it was he who delivered happiness to our house; my father’s county council cheque, birthday cards with ten shillings for us boys, letters from family at home and abroad – and especially, the odd parcel from England and America.

When I was 9 years old, Jack got off his bicycle a mile from our house, sat down on a stone and died. I learned every detail from overhearing my parents and neighbours talking. Devastation … and there was none more devastated than me.

Mick Ivory was Jack’s successor. A rather gruff man, who ‘took a drink’, Mick was no less obliging and there would sometimes be a bottle of stout kept for him in our house.

He proved to have a heart of gold as well. When my younger brother was rushed into hospital for an operation, Mick walked in to our house on his round, emptied all the

BENIJOFAR RAINBOWS

Andrew Atkinson EXCLUSIVE

New Girl Guides and Brownies groups are being launched in Benijofar for people aged between 4 and 7 years-old, under the Benijofar Rainbows banner.

"I have been doing Girl Guiding for 40 years as a Guide a guider in the UK, as well as a Rainbow leader," retired Health and Training Manager at NHS Grampian, Meg Gray told The Leader. Aberdeen born Meg, who resides in

Benijofar, said: "I moved to Spain six years ago and have run Rainbows and Brownies in the Costa since 2017.

"But as many girls travel and I moved to Benijófar, I want to start a group here, as well as keeping on the Costa groups."

Benijofar Town Hall agreed to let the Civic Centre for the first open night on January 10, for parents and girls for a question answer session.

Rainbows develop self-confidence, building

Bernie.comaskey@gmail.com

*Author, entrepreneur and newspaper columnist, Bernie Comaskey, now spends most of his time on a farm in Ireland; but he retains his strong links with the Costa Blanca.

change from his pockets onto the kitchen table saying, ‘buy something for that gosson in hospital’, and walked out.

Joe Masterson was next and yet another friendly, obliging gentleman. I moved away during Joe’s reign and when I returned it was Nicholas Moran who was the bearer of (mostly) good news. Nicholas was yet another incredibly obliging postman – and just generally a lovely guy.

Sadly, he too died young. I have no doubt but that all of my past postmen friends are doing their rounds up there in heaven, where they have no pressures of time and can chat with their friends and neighbours all day.

Barry Carr is our current postman. I had a

Bernie has published four books; ëIf Ever a Man Sufferedí, ëThe Best of Bernieí, ëThe Teamí, and ëJust Between Ourselvesí. Bernieís books are available at half price, on sale from either Spanish Solutions or ëThe Leader.íCall 637 227 385 for info.

sign on the wall in ‘Paddy’s Point’ (another one I brought from America) which read; ‘We don’t ask our staff to be nice – we hire nice staff.’

Well, An Post must be operating off that same manual, because Barry is the equivalent of all those postal heroes of my youth.

Helpful, friendly and ever obliging, Barry carries on that wonderful tradition I associate with the Irish postman.

DON’T FORGET

The measure of a man’s greatness is not the number of servants he has but the number of people he serves.

friendships, learning new things and having fun. Arts and crafts, get in touch with nature and play games - it's all about learning by doing. Rainbows follow a diverse and engaging programme and can take part in lots of different activities with girls their own age.

Brownies introduces girls to a world of new opportunities, challenges and fun. Girls choose from interest badges, related to things they want to know more about.

"Open taster evenings at 6pm- 7.30pm will take place on January 31 for three weeks, then the groups will get underway proper on February 21," said Meg. Interested parties can contact Meg Gray, via mobile or WhatsApp on 711 027 585.

Meg Gray: Founder of Benijofar Rainbows Girl Guides & Brownies.

Take a bow, An Post!!

Los Alcázares Wine and its Gastronomy

Where every person matters but God matters most?

Keep it light-hearted and easy or go for the hard stuff? Decisions, decisions! Does anyone even read these articles? Does anyone care? Does what I write make a blind bit of difference? All real and relevant questions.

If I reach, touch or challenge the heart of even one person, then yes – it is worth it! It is okay to put yourself on the line and declare: Yes, I am a Christian and a Born-Again Christian at that. What IS one of those you might ask? Is a Christian not a Christian not a Christian? In Church this week I asked “What kind of a Christian are you?

A come to church on a Sunday Christian –sing some nice songs, listen to a talk, “nice talk Vicar” go home and have dinner, try to be good to friends and neighbours and do it all over again next week?

A couch Christian – someone who sits on their sofa and watches a service on tv and that´s their Sunday duty to God done. Now for someone who is sick or disabled, this is a

great alternative!

However, since Covid far too many people are doing this. Is it really good enough? What´s wrong with it I hear you ask? They are singing along and hearing God´s Word. Hebrews 10:25 “Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” It´s about fellowship, meeting together as a body. 1 Corinthians 12:14-26For the body does not consist of one member but of many. If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose…” We all matter. You matter! We all have a part to play. And if you feel you don´t – you´re not in the

right church for you.

When we go to church, we are part of the body of that church, we are in fellowship with other believers. We are sharing our faith, we are standing up together and declaring who we are and what we believe. We are visibly agreeing with what we see & hear (– or not… as we can ask questions if we don´t agree or don´t understand.) Yes – You matter!

Pilar Christian Community Church. Calle Canalejas 3, Pilar de la Horadada. phil.molloypccc@gmail.com

English Service at 11am every Sunday. Info at: pilarchurch.com

Los Alcázares Council's is supporting it's hospitality industry with the launch of 'The Weekend Wine' campaign,which will focus on wine and gastronomy from the region during the 20th,21st and 22nd of January.

"The beginning of the year is always hard for the hospitality industry and for this reason,we want to lend a hand by encouraging residents to go out and try the best Murcian wines", said the Councillor,Pedro Sanchez. Participating bars and restaurants will offer different regional wines so that customers can discover the wide variety of wines that are present in the Region of Murcia.

"In addition,we are giving away five dinners for two people worth 100 euro" said Sánchez. Details are available through the Los Alcázares Council Social Networks.

SERVE THE COMMUNITY WITH US

We are looking to recruit Duty Supervisors for our charity shop – all positions are voluntary and unpaid.

We are a charity dedicated to the emotional wellbeing of all English speaking residents of Spain. Our vision is for a society in which fewer people die by suicide, people are able to explore their feelings, and people are able to acknowledge and respect the feelings of others.

We do this by enabling people of any age who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those who may be at risk of suicide, to receive confidential emotional support.

This support is provided by appropriately trained Samaritans via freephone and email between 10am and 10pm, 365 days a year. We offer this support in order to improve emotional health and to reduce the incidence of suicide.

THE SKILLS WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

Ability to work effectively as a member of a team

Ability to exercise good independent judgement

Ability to work to financial targets

We are looking for individuals who are willing and able to devote the necessary time and effort. INTERESTED?INTERESTED?INTERESTED?INTERESTED?

Contact Les Holloway for an application form by email to: igretail.spainsams@gmail.com or by calling into the charity shop. Closing date for completed applications: 31 JANUARY 2023

Applicants may be fluent English speakers of any nationality, and must be legally resident in Spain. References will be required for the service provided by Samaritans in Spain.

For further information about Samaritans in Spain, visit www.samaritansinspain.com

T h e K a m i k a z e K i d (AKA Prince

Harry, Seventh in line to the throne).

By John McGregor

Harry,what have you done? I think you’ve spectacularly blown it now! After Ms Meghan’s misgivings gave grave cause for concern,you have now quickly picked up the baton - and really ruined everything. First Oprah Winfrey,then the Netflix noughties,but now the explosive book and the in-depth interviews,British and American versions in case anything important was missed.

I may have missed someone or something out,easily done in this brouhaha,but in no particular order you have deeply upset your father,his wife,your brother and his wife,your family,half the nation – oh,and the Taliban.Well done son (or should that be the Spare son),that takes some doing. But really,after all,you have proved you are your mother’s son.You seem hell-bent on avenging her by continuing the sensational soap opera that was Diana’s life right up until her unfortunate death twenty-five years ago.

The book and the interviews show starkly how tragically her early death has marked Prince Harry’s young life,but anyone with any British common sense would advise NOT to take on the tabloid press,you will always lose.Meghan did exactly that on the ‘lettergate incident’ concerning her father,where she won a pyrrhic battle and of course soon lost the war.

The knives went in and her character and life was exploited and revealed for every Tom,Dick and Harriet to consider.Harry of all people should have told her that this was a hopeless,dangerous battle she could never win.

I’m almost the same age as King Charles and have grown up calling him names that

NEWS IN BRIEF

Spanish Cuisine 3rd best in world

Spain has been placed 3rd in the in the latest ranking of ‘World’s best cuisine’, by TasteAtlas, a platform that compiles reviews from diners to determine the most popular global cuisines. Spain received an overal score of 4.59 stars out of 5, behind Italy in top spot with 4.72.

rhyme with banker,and beseeching my family to tell me that I don’t look and act like him.But now he has actually finally made it after his Mum’s passing it seems to me he needs his youngest son’s current antics like a hole in his about-to-becrowned head.

Poor Charles,with the love of his life Camilla also mentioned in despatches of the unfortunate sort – the Pantomime Poisoned Step-Mother role was there after all,just when we thought she had dodged the arsey one’s bitter bullets. Bullets? Shooting? The Army? Oh dear,it ain’t half hot Mum now.I’m a loyal exserviceman with respect for the monarchy, particularly Her late Majesty.But not content with (we thought) also honourably serving his Queen and Granny and country,Hapless Harry has fired everyone up with not only admitting he shot to kill in Afghanistan,but managed it successfully 25 times.

With modern technology he could even look back on the replays,like a Play Station game but with real lives – and deaths.Surprise! The Taliban immediately picked up on it and reacted very badly as you would expect.Ever thought about the repercussions of that for your family Harold? Hope you’re all hiding away with good security in the good ‘Ol USA where you have run away to,from everything you previously stood for.

Big brothers always beat up little brothers, don’t they? I know I did.That’s what they’re for,isn’t it,especially when they start wearing necklaces.Harry’s elder sibling is destined to be king,and as such has tremendous pressure on his Royal shoulders.From where I’m sitting he’s not doing a bad job either,apart from the fact

Earth's ozone layer healing

The hole in the Earth's ozone layer, caused by ozone-depleting substances, is expected to be completely healed within the next 20 years, according to the UN. It states that the loss is on track to be completely recovered by 2040 worldwide, except in the polar regions.

that he supports Aston Villa – that’s nearly as bad as being a Liverpool fan.I sympathise – no,the in-word is empathise with Kate in trying,with difficulty,to get on with an ambitious American actress with a past,one who’s trying to badly act as if she hasn’t got one.Meghan thinks she’s won first prize and in a way she has - but in the wrong contest (see Jeremy Clarkson).

I hesitate to mention the 38 year old elephant in the room,but maybe this is the time.Is Harry a real Windsor? He doesn’t look like one,against his brother the differences are enormous.William looks the DNA of a Windsor: hair or lack of it,face, build,actions that easily mark him out as a future king in the accustomed line. But ever since the birth of Harry there have been uncomfortable rumours emergingand we all know his mother was no saint fidelity-wise in her marriage.Of course she had cause,but by giving birth to a son who looks nothing like her husband or her elder son you cannot blame people for

Highest unemployment in EU

Spain had the highest unemployment in the EU in Nov 22, according to Eurostat. The average unemployment rate in the eurozone was 6.5%, but in Spain it was 12.4%, almost double. In November, the total unemployed in the eurozone fell by a small margin to 10.8m

leaping to conclusions (new Olympic sport by the way).The unmistakeable fact that the man bears a strong resemblance to an ex-lover of Diana’s further deepens suspicions as to who the man’s father really is In summary,I was a supporter of Harrybut I am not now.I believe his ginger, bearded head has been swayed by his wife, and she has encouraged him all the way to take opposition to his family (The British Royal family) and all he previously stood for.

Just where he goes from here no-one knows.

Anyone remember a certain near relative of his taking the law of his dodgy position in life into his own hands and recording an interview in Buckingham Palace to explain his side of the situation? That didn’t turn out well either,and you would have thought nephew Harry might just have watched,listened and learned.But it would appear not!

Alert to women of aggression

Minister of the Interior, Fernando GrandeMarlaska, has said that the ministry hopes to have instructions from the prosecutor's office soon that will alert women living with repeat offenders of the risk they face, allowing for greater monitoring of the aggressors.

ALCOHOL USE DECLINES IN SPAIN

The IV International Contest of Cocido con Pelotas will be held on February 4 at the Municipal Leisure Centre (CMO) in Torrevieja, so if your meatballs are of competition standard, why not enter and put your nibbles to the test. Registrations can be made from Monday 16 January, and until 2:00 p.m. on January 30, before the competitors put their balls on show on 4 February.

All fans and lovers of cooking can take part, regardless of age, profession, or nationality. Participation may be either individually or representing an association, group of friends, etc. As it is an amateur contest, professional chefs are not allowed to participate but they may, participate in exhibition mode or out of competition.

The rules and entry forms can be collected from the Department of the Elderly, located at Calle Maldonado, nº5. They are also available on the web: http://www.cofradiadelcocido.es.

Intensive alcohol consumption decreased by 2.7 percentage points in the population between 15 and 64 years of age compared to 2020, going from 19.4% to 16.7% in 2022. This is shown in the latest Survey on Alcohol and other Drugs in Spain (EDADES 2022), published by the Ministry of Health.

The study also reflects a reduction of 2.5 points in the number of people consuming bottles, which goes from a 9.9% in 2020 to 7.4% in 2022.

According to the report, among the substances most consumed in the last 12 months are alcohol (76.4%), tobacco (39.0%), hypnosedatives (13.1%), cannabis (10.6%) and cocaine (2.4%).

By age, consumption is higher in the 15-34 age group, except for hypnosedatives and opioid analgesics, which increases amongst those over 35 years.

Approximately 65% of the population between the ages of 15 and 64 also see gambling as a risk, a figure that is also down on 2020.

58.1% of the population between the ages of 15 and 64 have gambled with money online and/or in person in the last 12 months (57.4% in person and 5.3% online), showing a decrease of the frequency of gambling compared to 2020.

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ANSWERS

Week 953

QUICK

ACROSS: ACROSS: 1 Desolation; 7 Outer; 8 Success; 10 Ordinary; 11 Halt; 13 Remote; 15 Befell; 17 Else; 18 Pendulum; 21 Snippet; 22 Begin; 23 Antecedent.

DOWN: DOWN: 1 Dated; 2 Serenity; 3 Lustre; 4 Tact; 5 Operate; 6 Colourless; 9 Settlement; 12 Readable; 14 Mission; 16 Fettle; 19 Light; 20 Apse. CR CR YPTIC YPTIC

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ACROSS ACROSS

6.Endanger (7)

7.Conscious (5)

9.Repeated (5)

10.Vocation (7)

12.Genuinely (11)

14.Quarrel (11) 18.Unite (7)

19.Journal (5) 21.Carouse (5) 22.Stupid (7)

CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE?

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

Solution on Page 23

1.Picture (5)

2.Area (6)

3.Excavate (3)

4.Dozen (6)

5.Dispute (7)

8.Disobedient (7)

11.Ancestry (7)

13.Everywhere (3,4)

15.Symbol (6)

16.Hateful (6)

17.Deception (5)

20.Cheerful (3)

ACROSS: 1 Regulation; 7 India; 8 Unusual; 10 Carriage; 11 Pert; 13 Silent; 15 Better; 17 Inch; 18 Beetroot; 21 Neither; 22 Order; 23 Art gallery.

DOWN: 1 Rider; 2 Gradient; 3 Lounge; 4 Tour; 5 Opulent; 6 Discussion; 9 Literature; 12 Bestrode; 14 Luckier; 16 Petrol; 19 Oddly; 20 Chug.

ACROSS ACROSS

6.Agrave ceremony (7)

7.Set great store by (5)

9.Agesture one doesn't care to make (5)

10.Staying in accommodation (7)

12.Show what discontented groups do (11)

14.Mistakes one cannot make twice (5,6)

18.Retired train-bearer? (7)

19.Religious retreat for sailor and Turk (5)

21.Apoem that could shock? (5)

22.Sort of clip found at the end of a lead (7)

DOWN DOWN

1.Have a duty, even if it might be tough? (5)

2.Don't accept that it should be thrown away (6)

3.Left with a thousand to beat (3)

4.He makes a false impression (6)

5.Stone in great pieces (7)

8.Study variety in a partner (7)

11.Anticipate charge for concealing minerals (7)

13.This posting means trouble in China (7)

15.Things to be done in company (6)

16.Tease lad about being coarse (6)

17.Devil doctor in his study (5)

20.She is in order (3)

LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ (Answers on page 23)

1.Which animal is usually used to depict the eternal Ouroboros symbol?

2.A very,very successful band and the name given to a Coptic bishop.One word.

3.In which films would you find the following doctors? a.Dr.John MacEntyre,b.Dr.John Hammond,c.Dr. Zira

4.The following are the first words to which songs? a. It was the 3rd of September,that day I'll always remember,b.It was the 3rd of June,another sleepy dusty delta day

5."As the snow flies" are the first words to which sad mega hit from 1969?

6.Which spiritual,religious or philosophical 'ism' claims everything,including your pint of Guinness, has a soul? First letter "A"

7.There is a famous photograph of Hiroshima resident Kengo Nikawa's broken pocket watch.The watch stopped the moment the atom bomb exploded.What time did his world come to an end on that fateful morning? (plus or minus 1 min)

8.Name the four countries in the world starting with the letter T that are Red Crescent Societies.

9.The RMS Titanic picked up

passengers in which three ports before its ill-fated collision with an iceberg?

10.The Italian pasta named farfalle is derived from the Italian word farfalla.A farfalla is what kind of animal in Italy? a.Bumblebee,b.Ladybird,c.Butterfly

11.As of 2021,which country has the fastest growing population in Europe? a.Ireland,b.Sweden,c. Portugal,d.Holland,e.Malta.

12.Which two symbols are found on the Red Cross flag in Russia?

13.Depending on how it is pronounced,which low or edible strait separates Tasmania from mainland Australia?

14.Russia and European Overseas Territories excluded,in which six European countries would you find active volcanoes?

15.With 75,600 km,which continent has the longest coastline?

16.If one includes Russia,what are the three longest rivers in Europe?

17.The Drake Passage separates which 2 continents?

18.Plus or Minus 5 %,what percentage of the planet Earth is covered by land?

19.The highest tides in the world are found in which Canadian Bay?

20.Which remote and hostile place starting with the letter A is considered to be the largest desert in the world?

PSOE Object to Pedestrianisation of Pilar de la Horadada

The Municipal Socialist Group in Pilar de la Horadada has requested "the immediate removal of the large obstructions, plant holders and signage that blocks the streets around the town hall and the church for the return of traffic and parking, to it's status quo.”

They say that "given the outcome and after having listened to the shopkeepers and residents of the area, it is thought by all that the experiment has been a failure." Many of the traders in the town centre, for whom this initiative was introduced, state that "closing the roads it has significantly affected them in the Christmas and new Year campaigns with a fall in sales or cancel-

Orihuela Police Save Baby from Drowning

The Orihuela Local Police have reported through their social networks that they have saved the life of a drowning baby. The emergency coordination received a report of a child who was drowning on the Orihuela Costa, and so the police were the first to be dispatched, followed by a paramedic SAMU ambulance.

Upon the arrival of the police, the minor was already in respiratory arrest, so thanks to the first aid they gave the child, the minor recovered his breath. The baby was then taken by SAMU ambulance to the hospital for treatment.

lation of appointments”.

The PSOE confirms that "there are many residents who object to the pedestrianisation, we now feel that a vast majority of the population is against it." They say they are not only talking about the residents of the streets that are closed to traffic, who are the ones who now find it difficult to access their own homes or garages, but a majority of residents of the entire town. They also criticise "the assertion of the mayor and his councillors that pedestrianisation has the support of most traders and residents and that they are inventing positive results that do not exist."

DUET BECOMES ONE AT XMAS GIG

Lucid Singer,Masie May Carey,did not know what hit her when she performed a gig at the Stray Sod La Fuente on Xmas Eve.

Together with her Guitarist,Jac Bentley,the duo performed their usual set of Pop and Rock songs to a packed audience.

However at midnight,as the Xmas Day Celebrations were just dying down,Jac did the traditional down on one knee performance and asked Maisie to marry him.

At first Masie thought this was just a joke.But when the crowed clapped and cheered and demanded to know her answer she knew it was real.

There really wasn’t any doubt about her answer as she declared,in front of their Family,Friends and Xmas Revellers that she would.

Gallant Jac goes down on one knee at The Stray Sod

PSOEcandidate for mayor, Antonio Escudero (centre)

The Church of JESUS CHRISTof 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

La Siesta Evangelical Church, Torrevieja, a friendly, English-speaking church. We hold services at 11.15am on the 2nd and 4th Sundays each month (and the 5th when there is one). For more info see our website at: www. lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org

Join us at the SALTCHURCH 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, PolÌgono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. We look forward to meeting you. www.Saltchurchspain.

Facebook SaltChurchSpain

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Los Montesinos - La Herrada

2 double bed/fitted wardrobes, bath/shower. South facing ground floor bungalow apartment, DialPrix Supermarket 2 mins away. Private tiled garden, double glazed Patio, Seperate kitchen, Galleria. Close to all amenities - 35 min Alicante Airport, Priced to sell at E79,995

Tel: +34 634 383 099.Tel: +44 776 230 3798. Tel: +44 770 234 0744.

International Christian Assembly, Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, TorreviejaEvangelical non-denominational church. Sunday service 11a.m.; Sunday school; Prayer meetings; craft and computer clubs. Ladies Bible Study: Thursday 11a.m. Church Bible Study: Thursday 1.30p.m. House groups in Torrevieja, La Siesta ñ Contact: 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. www.icatorrevieja.org

The Car of the Month at AUTOMOVILES CRESPO is a 2016 Ford Grand C-Max Trend+ Diesel which is priced at just 17,500 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 page7. We can assure you of the biggest and best in the area for price, choice and quality.

ENGLISH SPOKEN

Come Join The Band' The Royal British Legion Concert Band Spain is looking for a second violin player of any nationality to join our growing group of musicians. Please contact Graham Robinson at email by phone on 658 663 846 or by email at: robinsongraham256@ googlemail.com

The Meetings of the Royal British Legion Orihuela Costa and District Branch are held at 7 for 7.30 pm on the 3rd Thursday of every month at the Olympia Pool Bar in Mil Palmeras. Everyone is welcome incl non members. However, due to closure there will be no meeting in Jan. Call Jean on: 630 28 08 99.

The RBLTorrevieja BranchMeets at the Oasis, formerly the Casa Ventura, San Luis on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6.30 pm for 7pm start. New members are always welcome. You do not have to be ex-services. For info please contact:Torrevieja.secretary@rbl. community

Phoenix Friends Torrevieja

This new friendship club, replacing Phoenix Solos, meets on Monday mornings, at 11.00am, for drinks and

conversation, on the terrace at Reflections Bar /Rte, C/Aviles, San Luis Lakeside. Regular activities will include games nights, ten-pin bowling, petanca, and meeting up, but on an informal basis. The group is open to singles and couples. For further information, Phone Kitty 622 180 500 Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you with problem solving and well being for the over 50ís. 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 CHE LOCO bar/restaurant, El Chaparral urbanisation, Torrevieja. For more info contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on +44 7576 117 222, Secretary Mike Cockman 670 224 822

The RAFACosta Blanca RMG replaces the RAFACosta Blanca Branch 1359 which is now closed. The RMG is a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Association. Contact with the RAFAand the RMG is via the RAFAwebsite rafa.org.uk.

Mayor visits new Occupational Centre

The mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolón, visited the new APANEE Occupational Centre last week, where a total of 17 young people, all over 18 years of age, but with special educational needs, have begun their training, which will eventually see them better equipped to ensure their social and labour integration. In the future the centre aims to expand the number of students it can deal with. It is planned that through a foundation, the students will take part in a training program in tourism and hospitality to, later, be able to

carry out internships in establishments that want to collaborate with APANEE. Currently the centre has at it’s disposal a psychologist, socio-sanitary personnel, an occupational therapist and a driver.

The facilities are made up of a training classroom, and the simulation of a house with a kitchen, full bathroom and bedroom. In this way, students will be able to obtain personal autonomy in their day to day activities.

This project was established to ensure a better future, full of opportunities, to all young people with special educational needs.

A total of 17 young people are currently studying at the centre

New Waste Bins for San Luis and La Siesta

Torrevieja council has announced new waste bins are set for San Luis and La Siesta - being amongst a plethora of towns that are to have a new format for waste collection.

In San Luis and La Siesta all green garden waste skips have been removed, ready for the new look bins to be placed in situ.

Residents in the areas have been notified of the changes in waste removal, via a leaflet, explaining the new waste collection service.

Cost of British passports set to increase next month

The cost of renewing a British passport is to rise next month as the government is set to raise passport fees on 2 February for all those newly applying or renewing their passport.

Standard applications will increase from £75.50 to

£82.50 for adults and £49 to £53.50 for children while postal applications will rise from £85 to £93 for adults and £58.50 to £64 for children.

The government insists that it does not make any profit from the cost of passport applica-

tions while the government web page says: ‘The new fees will help the Home Office move towards a system that meets its costs through those who use it,reducing reliance on funding from general taxation.

‘The fees will also contribute

to the cost of processing passport applications,consular support overseas,including for lost or stolen passports,and the cost of processing British citizens at UK borders.

This will be the first time in five years the cost has risen the Home Office confirmed.

Deceived by Routine & Habit

It is News Yearís morning and I turn my head to look at ëold faithfulí thatís been with us for the past fifty odd years, and it still works perfectly, including the radio which used to be our BBC musical wakeup call in the mornings, however our retirement made that part of the device redundant.

I look at the flickering figures ñ itís my eyes flickering not the clock ñ and I see itís time to do the morning chore, making the tea. We used to have a ëTeasmadeí sitting beside the bed, but we kept forgetting to prime it the night before, so I still got up to make the tea.

It is still dark as I climb out of the warm bed and make my way to the kitchen, the night lights showing the way, which saves putting on the main illuminations, creating a blaze of brightness which may wake my lady.

On passing the patio doors I glance out at a sleeping world of the valley, to the left some smoke blowing from a chimney, the village at the bottom of the hill about a mile away is covered in a whitish, grey, thick layer of what appears to be a blanket, keeping it warm.

With bleary eyes I fumble as I lay out a cup, filling the kettle, and while waiting, emptying the little dish with previously used tea bags, before adding the boiling water to the cup. It is then time for my return route to the bedroom, passing the large patio doors again I see someone is escaping the cloud blanketing the village, their headlights showing the way.

It is sometime later when the cuppa has cooled that my wife murmurs, ìWhy have I just got water this morning and not teaî. For some reason assembling the parts for the beverage did not include the tea bag, perhaps at six thirty in the morning moving the used ones was confusing to an octogenarianís sleepy head, anyway I thought getting one wrong after sixty odd years is not bad.

Memory loss, especially when doing routine things is a common thing, I am sure most people will have, at some time, gone into a room and wondered why they were there. To forget, has happened on occasion in the small hostelry we visit in the village, certainly when they are busy, and a cup of coffee does not arrive.

But that is rare, and the brew is always delicious, accompanied with a biscuit wrapped in foil which I find spoils the taste of the drink; I normally put them in my pocket.

On another occasion during the day, Jean, the one who should be obeyed, asked me to go to the village to buy a few things, at the time Sue was with us helping with household chores. On returning I passed the objects over and then back to working

Rubber trees, exotic touch to garden

on the computer, but first laying the car key, as I normally do, on the dining room table ñ at least that is where I thought I had put it.

The following day the car was due for a service, I was all ready to go and then I discovered the key was not in its usual place and an empty tabletop glowered back at me. I am sure it would have laughed if it could have done.

into it let alone starting the engine. So, desperation! What do we do?

Memory loss,especially when doing routine things,is a common thing.

I am sure most people will have,at some time,gone into a room and wondered why they were there.

So where is the key? The day before I had parked the car and walked up from the drive into the living room without stopping, so logic says it must be somewhere between the car and the dining room table. After searching in all the usual places, with no result, and as I only have the one key, I cancelled the service for the car.

We were getting desperate and phoned Sue to see if she knew where it was. She was unable to help but a little later, with her husband Paul, they came round to assist in looking for it.

We had already looked in the rubbish bins, but she went through them again, with the same result, it was then that Dave, our neighbour, became involved, and they searched the garden and the flower beds ñ still no key.

We are now talking six people spending hours of their time looking for it with no result, and standing sadly in the drive, the car, and no means of being able to get

There is a firm of locksmiths who operate out of Alicante and specialise in getting into locked vehicles. They were happy to come to us but first they had to check that they had a replacement. They explained that the key, (it is a flat black disk with buttons, credit card size), is also part of the electronics in the vehicle, and the substitute for it to work would have to be programmed to match the electrical system. We still could not find the original, so we told him to go ahead.

At a cost of two hundred and fifty Euros, that was less than what the Renault garage wanted, the young man presented me with a replacement, which had taken two and half hours to be coordinated with the car. It is now two months later, and it is Christmas day. We have had a nice meal, just the two of us. We donít do turkey, two sirloin steaks instead, beautiful. As we have done in previous years rounding off the event with a glass of Port, crackers and Stilton blue cheese.

I went to the biscuit barrel in the kitchen where the cheese biscuits are kept, it is also where I deposit the unopened biscuits from the coffee bar, and there amongst them was the original key to the car.

Take care

www.facebook.com/percy chattey

ARubber Tree plant - also known as a Ficus Elastica - can grow up to 15 metres tall, with a trunk measuring up to 2 metres in diameter, with roots capable of extending several metres. Grown by many as an indoor plant, they can be easily grown outdoors here in the mild winter climates of the Costa Blanca south and Costa Calida.

A much loved plant for ornamental value that its leaves have, especially, which give an exotic touch to your garden.

Blooms throughout the spring and produces false fruits, called sycones, inside which are flowers pollinated by the fig wasp.

Known to be a little tricky as a young outdoor plant, as the correct balance of water and light is crucial, because they shouldn’t have too much of either. They need lots of bright, dappled indirect light and kept moist and watered, at least once a week during the growing season. However, too much water and the leaves will turn yellow and brown and fall off. During the dormant season, it may only need watering once or twice a month. If the leaves begin to droop, but not fall off, increase the water you give the rubber tree gradually, until leaves perk back up again.

It tolerates pruning well, although it is not recommended to remove any branches, since its beauty lies precisely in its size, the arrangement of its branches and also in the fact that it remains evergreen.

Also fertilise with food for acid loving plants, such as those for azaleas.

Propagation is simple by taking a small branch from a healthy tree and put it in good potting soil or water and let it root.

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RESULTS FOR 12 JANUARY WEEK 13

Tipsy Toad Tiaras1-11Tipsy Toppers

Mind The Gap12-0Domino´s Desp’s

Hub Hyenas11-1Pint Depot Queens

Fallen Angels7-5Ck1 Lads

CC´s Bees5-7El Capitan

Danny´s Bar4-8CC´s Flyers

Freakie Taverners10-2Hub Hellraisers

Milo´s9-3Angel Delights

Ck1 Ladybirds3-9Leeson St Trotters

League Table P Pts Legs

Mind the Gap1326140

Hub Hyenas1325128

El Capitan1321111

Tipsy Toad Toppers1319106

CC´s Bees131975

CC's Flyers131797

Ck1 Lads131591

Leeson St Trotters131483

Freakie Taverners131479

Danny's Bar131478

Milos131378

Fallen Angels131375

Domino's Desp’dos13753

Ck1 Ladybirds13651

Tipsy Toad Tiaras13547

Angel Delights13332

Hub Hellraisers13331 Pint Depot Queens13027

180'S: Bob Smith Danny´s Bar

MOST 180´S TO DATE: Dave Rowlinson 3 - CC

Bees's

HIGHEST FINISH TO DATE: 154 - Mario GarciaFreakies

MIND THE GAP V DOMINOS DESPERADOS

Most teams find a visit to the Gap pretty daunting, tend not to play their best and then get a whopping. Dominos this week joined the ever growing list of dashed dreams, l'm sure however they went home well fed by the Gap's superb kitchen.

As you may imagine "tons of tons" from the league leaders, the best a POTM single from Darren Sanderson 135,100,100, 52 out, to add to earlier 5x80+, 100,123. Phew!!! Not far behind was James Brown with 3x100,140 and a clean 72 out on "tops".

Che Liam managed just 1 winning double but 2x100, 132, 2x140, Bliss Wright 121,100, D20. Even Doms Steve Harding could only find the odd treble, POTM going to Mike Langan.

HUB HYENAS V PINT DEPOT QUEENS

Queens are still looking for their 1st point, but who cares when a good night out is priority. And so it was, creditable performances from Jade 127 and Lorraine Cox 95,100, POTM going to Queens lone winner Marie Cummins on D10.

Quality Hyenas "arrows" from Alan Havelock, 100,100,123, Pete Spence, 100,125,133, Dario Sierra 100,100,140, Andre Wing, 140 and a tasty 80 out, but POTM went to new father Jay Wilkinson

for his help with partner Sinead in producing a 7lb 10oz baby girl named Thalia.

Both Jay and Marie are pictured with former World No1 darts supremo Rod Harrington, currently visiting.

FALLEN ANGELS V CK 1 LADS

Plenty of scores in the opener, Graham White 121, Mike Tierney 100, for Angels, Steve M.Dalton 140,100, Terry David for the Lads, nailing D12. The next 4 going to the hosts via John McShane D8, Billy Dolling D16 and D14, Tony Spiers D12, White and James Mackay both hitting 125. Kevin Wood claimed the 6th adding 2x125 to an earlier 135. Dolling 2x100,D6, and White D10 got the hosts to 6, M. Dalton staving off the inevitable on D6. Mackay slotted home D2 for the 7th and both points. John Crabbe D2 and Terry David D9, making the score respectable for Lads, in spite of a Spiers 140. POTM - Dolling - Wood.

CC BEES V EL CAPITAN

Caps won this one by virtue of an all important 1st half 2-4 lead, Andres Liamazares 127 and Chris Logan D2, securing the advantage in the 6th. Sound darts from Olly Walker 100, a 50 out and a nice 90 out on the bull, plus a Logan 125,120 in the 3rd triple, Ben Kernahan finding D8, summed up Caps 1st half.

B's actually outscored their opponents in the 1st six, Bruce Admiral 100,121, Paul Christopher 121,100,97 and Dave Rowlinson 100,140,140 doing the most damage.

Reg Christopher 100, D16, Rowlinson 3x100, D20 and Simon Bantleman added 3 more legs to B's total. Liamazares 140,125,95, Arold Klimonis D8 and Kernahan, 95,100,D8 added the 3 legs required for a fine away victory. POTM - RowlinsonLiamazares

TIPSY TOAD TIARAS V TIPSY TOAD TOPPERS

Tiaras debuted a new signing for this season, Eileen Askew, whose surname may have some resonance

amongst the PDO fraternity, and rightly so. A very useful player, she clocked up a 98 and a 125 and will no doubt add many more to the tally.

POTM for the ladies went to Sharon Crane for most high scores (104, 90, 100, 86).

The lone leg for the Tiaras came courtesy of a poorly Lisa ivill, who decamped to her bed soon after, such is her dedication.

The chaps put in their usual performance, John Rodford got POTM for 5 tons and a 140, but alas only one check-out in his 4 appearances. Andy Gildea muscled in with 132, 113, 3 tons and two finishes. Lee Maiden also clocked a 140 and the best finish of the night with T10-D18. Hugh Galloway won all 3 legs he played in and kindly helped out with chalking, such a gentleman.

DANNY'S BAR V CC FLYERS

At 1-5 down at half time the writing was on the wall for Dannys, all credit to the hosts however as they shared the 2nd half singles. Suso Madrid enjoyed a good 1st half, gaining 2 winning doubles and 2x100,140, supported by a POTM showing from Dougie Adkins, 2 outs and 100,121,140. Bob Smith closed the 6th leg on D8 after a 123.

John McKay D16 guaranteed Flyers a point in the 7th, John Giggs stemming the tide 0n D10, against a lively Chelsea Campbell. Matt Smith got Flyers over the line with an impressive 100,100,135,D5. Madrid added another 140 to his tally, Smith concluded the match with a 54 out and a 180, for POTM.

McGlynn.

By Paul Durrant

As usual Bryan Livesy figured with 100,100,120 and 2 outs, "old hand" John Boden 95,95,133, Mitch Halliday 131 and 2 outers, Mario Garcia 125, plus a hatfull of 80+'s, but POTM went Noel Kenny's way, with an excellent singles win over Carol Peace, Raisers POTM - Dolling.

MILOS V ANGELS DELIGHTS

Angels equalled Milos ton tally in the 1st half, but still found themselves 4-2 down at the break. Milos Cain Garcia 100 also provided a couple of doubles as did Javi de Gea, Sharon Williams 81,140 and Steph Knowles the 2 for Angels.

Sue Frew gained the lone visitors win in the 2nd half with 121, D19, for POTM, complimenting a 102 with Knowles in their pairs victory. Angel Gallardo found D19 to complete an 89 out in his singles against Henni Oortwijn. Garcia had a cracking singles recording 3x100, D20 in the 12th leg for POTM,

CK 1 LADYBIRDS V LEESON ST. TROTTERS

Both sides put in a decent shift at CK's, this week, Trotters just a little too strong for Ladybirds. The hosts fought back from 0-4 down, taking the next 3 through Angie Mullen showboating with D1, D17 (36), and Dons Ralph finding D10 in the 3rd pair, plus taking the creditable scalp of Amanda Skinner in the 1st single on D10 again.

FREAKIE TAVERNERS V HUB HELLRAISERS

Freakies banged in plenty of 3 figure scores throughout, resulting in a 5-1 result in each half for the hosts. Raisers best darts from the throwing arms of Sue Spiers, 5x90+, and the 2 girls finding the outer circle Lesley Dolling and "skipper" Cheryl

Some powerful performances in the 1st half from Trotters, Steve Tilley, 100,140,131, D8, plus a 66 out, A Skinner D13 and Barry Shingler 100,100,D4. The visitors turned up the heat following Birds revival, Tilley showing off with 100,100,140, and a 72 out, Yvonne Rouffignac 95,95,D8, for 3-6, Shingler nailing D10 for both points. Kain Hickman adding 140, Ken Skinner plenty of trebles and D13 for the 12th and POTM, Ralph, Birds POTM.

POTM - Bob and Dougie

Marie, Rod &Jay at The Hub

Lesley and Noel

San Miguel Bowls

13th

January 2023 - Barry Jones

Monday saw the first league game for 2023, San Miguel Dolphins were home to Country Bowls Flamingoes, where they won 10 - 2, 94 shots to 60. The best winning triple were Jan Farmer, Gail Willshire and Lynn Greenland 26 shots to 8.

On Tuesday San Miguel Apaches were home to San Luis Lions, losing 4 - 8, 78 shots to 73, the winning triple were Margaret Patterson, Jan Farmer and Fred Willshire 26 shots to 7.

On Wednesday San Miguel were home to Monte Mar in the Winter League, where they had a great win taking all the points 8 - 0, 78 shots to 31. On the winning rink were Anita Brown, Mary Whitelock, Gail Willshire and Ron Nairey 34 shots to 5.

On Friday San Miguel Comanches were home to San Luis Tigers, winning 8 - 4, 94 shots to 62. The best winning triple were Bill Knight, Ken Hope and Lynn Greenland 32 -4.

San Miguel Apaches were also in action on Friday, playing away to Emerald Isle Cavaliers where they lost 4 - 8, 83 shots to 94. The best winning triple were Allan Patterson, Don Darby and Gail Willshire 24 shots to 8.

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. 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

SOUTH SOUTH ALIC ALICANTE WINTER ANTE WINTER TRIPLES TRIPLES

MOND MONDAAY 9 J Y 9 JANUAR ANUARY - WEEK 10 Y - WEEK 10

ENTERPRISE DIVISION ENTERPRISE DIVISION

San Miguel Dolphins 94 (10)Country Bowls Flamingos 60 (2)

Greenlands Maples 81 (8)La Marina Pathfinders 79 (4)

Emerald Isle Titans 82 (10)Quesada Pearls 81 (2)

La Siesta Apollos 86 (6)San Luis Klingons 88 (6)

P P W W D D L L Dif Dif ff Pts Pts

Emerald Isle Titans9271173369

Vistabella Albatrosses8232159962

Greenlands Maples *9251197461

San Miguel Dolphins9251198559

Quesada Pearls 92202314156

Country Bowls Flamingos9211232149

La Marina Pathfinders *919125-16541

San Luis Klingons * * 918126-6538

La Siesta Apollos 916029-22336

* 2) deducted forfailing to field a full side

** 5) deducted forfailing to field full sides

DISCOVERY DIVISION DISCOVERY DIVISION

Quesada Diamonds 96 (12)Vistabella Drivers 74 (0)

El Rancho Pintos 103 (10)San Miguel Orcas* 52 (2)

La Marina Explorers 72 (10)Emerald Isle Neptunes* 69 (2)

Country B Seahawks 112 (8)Greenlands Chestnuts 80 (4)

P P W W D L L Dif Dif ff Pts Pts

Quesada Diamonds*9252184962

Greenlands Chestnuts9250204360

Vistabella Drivers *9223208159

Country Bowls Seahawks9230221556

Emerald Isle Neptunes* 9231216155

La Marina Explorers 922122-3255

San Miguel Orcas*920223-2246

La Siesta Pioneers820020-5144

El Rancho Pintos914328-14435

* 2) deducted forfailing to field a full side

San Luis Bowls Club

After the welcome Christmas break, here we are ñ fortunate enough to be starting yet another year in Spain (time really does seem to fly as the body slows down!) and remembering friends weíve lost or who have decided to return to UK on a permanent basis for whatever reason. Who knows what 2023 will bring as far as bowling is concerned, with many of the long-standing, hard working LLB committee members stepping down; we thank them and look forward with interest to the future.

But back to this week: South Alicante League, Enterprise Div. (A) - Monday 9th January; Klingons were away, against our near neighbours, La Siesta Apollos and had a ìchallengingî morning winning on just 2 rinks but taking the shots 88-86, points 6-6. Well done to our winning

teams: Giuseppe Galelli, June & Keith Jones 31-9, Kath Reid, Neil Burrows, Ian Kenyon 22-17.

Voyager Div. (C) - Trekkers had no match as there are only 7 teams in this division.

Southern League (Div A) on Tuesday 10th

Lions were away v San Miguel Apaches for their re-arranged match (from 02.12.22.) They had a great result, 8 points-4, just missing the shots 73-78.

Winners: Bill Webb, Caroline Smyth, Pat Reilly 16-15, Mary Lockley, Sandra Burrows, Scott Malden 17-15, Giuseppe Galelli, June & Keith Jones 18-14, Kath Reid, Dave Webb, Ian Kenyon 15-8.

Southern League (Div C) Friday 13th was not a good day for the Tigers away v San Miguel Commanches. The Tigers did their best but some found the difference in the length of the green, added to the new,

LA SIESTA BOWLS

(Members Run Club) by Alan Carr Division (B) - At home it was an all La Siesta fixture, which resulted in the Blues winning on three rinks and also taking the points for the overall (Shots 83-73) Result 8-4, with the winning rinks coming from; Dave Blackie, Norman Adcroft & Jim Gracie (23-10). Ramsay Sinclair, Martin Harley & Karen Kirk (20-10). Dawn & John Taylor with Harold Charleton (21-13). The Golds rinks were won by; Ann & Robert Heath with Ros Stockell (20-4). Ken Stringfellow, Irene & Dave Laverick (20-15). Enterprise - The Apollos welcomed their neighbour’s San Luis Klingons which resulted with good wins on three rinks by; Dave Blackie, Norman Adcroft & Jim Gracie (2213). Wendy Ralph, Mike Inns & John Taylor (17-8). Joan Inns, Ann & Jim Taylor (21-14) with the end result being 66 as we just missed out on the overall (Shots 86-88). Interested in joining La Siesta members run bowls club, there is always something going on with events being arranged by the social secretary to suit all members. George´s Chicken and Egg, every Wednesday 1.30 for 2pm, with Mike & Grahams roll up every Saturday 930 for 950 am. Just pop in or call the President George 865 772 498 or the Captain Wendy 633 068 399 who will be pleased to give you any further information you may require.

GREENLANDS BOWLS CLUB

The Elms had a postponed game to play against Monte Mar at Home on 5th January,very close but lost 10-2 overall and 75-90.

The Chestnuts were away to Country Bowls in the SABA and although losing to very strong side they came away with a very good 4 points,which keeps them in second place in the division.Highest winning rink was,B.Tomlin,B.Ewart and Tony Hodge.Scores 4 -8 & 80112.

The Maples were at home to La Marina and in a close game managed to secure a 8-4 and 81-79 win. Winter League saw The Warriors Entertain the Gladiators with the scores 6 -2 and 51-43 to the Gladiators.

much heavier running, carpet very hard work. Points were 4-8, shots 62-94. Well done to our winning teams who found their way: Jane Hamill, Cas Blay, Stewart Hamill 19-7, Ray Watmough, Dee Hoey, John Dowell 16-14.

Meanwhile the Lions were battling at home v Quesada Swallows, taking 6 points-6, 80 shots-100. Winners: Bill Webb, Tricia Reilly, Pat Reilly 13-12, Neil & Sandra Burrows, Scott Malden 20-11, Kath Reid, Caroline Smyth, Ian Kenyon 21-17.

If you want to find out more about San Luis BC, come along to Oasis SL, talk to members; weíre a friendly bunch! watch on Monday or Friday match days, or take part in the chicken drive on Saturdays (winter times now 10:00/10:30) or contact Club Captain June Jones for more information: keithjones81@hotmail.com

By Sheila Cammack

Emerald Isle Bowls Club

Titans started the year with a fine win 10-2 Aggregate 82-81 against Quesada Pearls, N Prior S Elvin M Dyer 20-14, N Davis Jo Pering C Lindgren 20-14, P Heaney M Odell G Odell 17-13, P Coffey S Verity G Wallis 19-16

Neptunes travelled to La Marina Explorers with a depleted team and lost 2-10, Aggregate 69-72 M Oakley E Morris M Ellis 22-7

Claymores played a rearranged game on Wed at home against Quesada Swifts and had a good win 8-4, Aggregate 85-71, M Oakley M Ellis J Pooley 21-7, S Ellis C Wilson M Willicott 18-12, M Riley R Pollock J Loughran 16-14

Cavaliers played San Miguel Apaches on Friday and had a great 8-4 aggregate 94-83, N Davis M Dyer D Gerrard 30-7, P Heaney M Odell G Odell 23-19, S Kavanagh N Prior B Kavanagh 19-17

Outlaws played against La Siesta Silvers and got a great win

8-4, aggregate of 94-87 V Cameron E Sheppard T Upham 27-10, M Nash A Fay T Upham 23-13, J Forrest J Sawyer K John drew 22-22, D Clark A Gower G Smith drew 15-15

Claymores travelled to Vistabella Picadors and had a fine win

8-4 Aggregate of 84-77 P Willicott A Malcolm J Loughran 18-6, B Fenty J Fenty S Elvin 16-12, M Riley R Pollock R White 16-13.

SAPS at 13-15 on Saturdays

ELWYN MORRIS

Friday saw the Cedars host the Oaks with the Oaks running out winners 2-10 and 71-104.Some of the games were very close,hard fought and enjoyed by all.Winning rink for Cedars was LHier, R.Cordell and J.Hier.Highest winning rink for Oaks

J.Jukes,M.Jukes and D.Morrisson

Three Kings day was celebrated on Sunday 8th January.The Bowls were organised by Pete and Lisa with the usual sausage rolls available during the morning and a supply of chocolates provided by Jill. Kerry took on the roll of chocolatier and did a great job,keeping all well supplied.

After a great morning of bowls we all had a few beers followed by lunch.Thanks to Pete and Lisa for the bowls Jill for organising the chocolates and meal and Enrique and his staff for providing great service of beer and food.

If you enjoy a mix of competitive and fun bowling in a friendly environment at a wonderful venue,why not give one of us a call?

Also coaching available,groups or individual,by qualified coaches. Equipment available.

Pete Bonsor (Capt) 711 02 08 46

Keith Stobbart (Pres) 693 06 53 55

John Rosati (Secretary) 688 70 93 62

We have Joe’s roll up every Saturday morning 9.30 for 10.00, entry fee 1 euro FANTASTIC PRIZES Non members are welcome and pay a green fee of 6 euros.This is a great social event each week,food and drink available after.

There is also an adventure golf course available for the Husband or wife and children whilst the partners are playing bowls just book at the bar.

By Chris.Dewar

QBC ROUNDUP

BY STEVE HIBBERD

All QBC teams reported back for duty, as they returned to LLB league action, following a lengthy seasonal break. On Monday, the Pearls travelled to Emerald Isles for their South Alicante league match, where they came away with only 2 points, courtesy of the trips team of G Phillips, T Morgan, Jason P 24-6.

Diamonds meanwhile, started the new year in fine form, recording a resounding 12-0 victory over Vistabella Drivers. This result sent them to the top of the 2nd div. Here's the 5 winning rinks - A Bowen, B Elliott, S Cooper 23-17. K Bowles, S Jakeman, A Benson 22-17. G Kershaw, S Hibberd, P Farrell 15-12. K Gordon, D Collings, T Voisey 1712. P Bottle, A Linley, D Conlon 19-16.

Although Rubies had a bye, they are still top of div 3. On Wednesday, Swifts played a rearranged Southern league div 2 match at Emerald Isles against the Claymores. These 2 triumphant threesomes gained the points, in a 4-8 defeat - K Gordon, D Collings, A Reid 18-14. S Johnston, L Cole, L Miller 20-16.

Then on Friday, Swallows made the short trip to San Luis, where they did battle against the Lions. Winning on 2 rinks, plus overall shots, meant that a valuable 6-6 draw was secured. T Morgan, C Dye, M Ward 39-13. A Johnston, M France, C Brazier 2313, were the successful teams.

The 2nd local derby of the season involving Swifts v Swans, also took place on Friday, when an honourable 6-6 draw was the outcome. Winning Swans rinks were H Olsen, P & B Rees 21-15. C Bowles, D Gould, K Bowles 18-10. L Armstrong, P Bottle, T Voisey 19-17. Even though they only won on 2 rinks, overall shots difference gave Swifts an equal share of the points. Well done - J Cleal, M Holmes, R Lewin 19-10. S Johnston, B & L Miller 22-11.

EL RANCHO BOWLS CLUB

On Monday the Pintos started the second half of the season by entertaining the San Miguel Orcas. A steady breeze gathered strength throughout the match, but it didn't spoil the match. The Orcas conceded one rink, playing just four, whilst the Pintos won 3 of the remaining 4 and the overall shots.

Ria Dukker, Malc Sykes and Diane Yates 38-3. Sue Ziepe, Steve Ziepe and Dave Haynes 20-12. Ann Abbott, Dolly Ford and Marion Haynes 20-17. Tony Abbott, Lesley Day and Bob Day 15-18.

Wednesday found our winter league team at Vistabella and although played good bowls they were against strong opposition, coming away without a win. But it’s just a game. Sheila Cox, Pam Harris, Diane Yates and Keith Longshaw 10-28. Brian Harris, Ron Greenstreet, Dave Haynes and Marion Haynes 15-25. Ria Dukker, Lesley Day, Judy Foley and Bob Day 12-24.

On Friday morning the Mustangs were entertained by La Marina Seagulls, my favourite away venue, as always they were excellent company and we had a good morning’s bowls. Mustangs took the rinks by 3 to 2 and lost the overall shots by just 6, a very good away result. Sheila Cox, Brian Harris and Keith Longshaw 18-17. Debbie Ham, Ron Greenstreet and Adrian Ham 13-28. Peter Blackburn, Malc Sykes and Diane Yates 11-16. Ann Abbott, Dave Baker and Steve Ziepe 22-16. Lesley Day, Pam Harris and Bob Day 2215. Bowlers of all levels are welcome at El Rancho, for further membership information contact Sheila Cox at micksheilacox@gmail.com.

Vistabella BC 14th January, By Brian Zelin

Monday 9th January Vistabella Drivers, Division B, were Away to Quesada Diamonds, I think the Drivers were still celebrating the New Year, Losing on all Rinks, Shots 74-96 Points 0-12.

Wednesday 11th January, Vistabella in the

COUNTRY BC

By Peter Dix

Its back to business this week for the LLB winter leagues and the Flamingos were looking forward to testing the new carpet at San Miguel for the first time, however the Greengauge carpet was much slower than the Dales which we are used too. Only one rink mastered the surface and collected 2 points, Clive Hoyal, Trish and Peter Dix maintained their form to win 24 shots to 11, overall shots 60 t0 94. Meanwhile the Seahawks entertained Greenlands Chestnuts and took advantage of the quick home surface on a fresh sunny morning running out winners 8 points to 4, shots 112 to 80. Winning rinks were Sue Hudson, Del Gunning, Dean Webb 31 to 6, Ben Noke, Geoff Eggleton, Ray Robson 22 to 15, Phil Newham, Nick Mildon, Peter Whitehall 32 to 13,

On Friday in the Southern League Vistabella made the trip down into Murcia with a very experienced team and the Geckos had a fight on their hands, in a tight game it went down to the last bowl finishing 77 shots each with Vistabella winning on 3 rinks to take the game 7 points to 5. Winning rinks were Clive Hoyal, Barry Evans, Ray Robson 28 to 8, Del Gunning, Andy Failes, Peter

Winter League were at Home to El Rancho, Winning on all 3 Rinks. Steve Baxter, Arthur Brown, Richard Lee, Maggie Furness 28-10, Sue Kemp, Alice Howe, Carol Thorpe, Gary Thorpe 24-12, Geraldine Fisher, Barbara Brown, Paul Parkes, Gordon Fisher 25-15, Shots 77-37. Points 8-0.

Friday 13th Vistabella Lanzadores Division A, were Away to Country Bowls Geckos, Winning on 3 Rinks plus Drawing the

Shots, Sue Kemp, Mo Foulcer, Brian Zelin 14-8, Richard Lee, Arthur Brown, Eric Bishop 18-12, Olwyn Ratcliffe, Stuart Allman, Brian Dunn 23-14, Shots 77-77 Points 7-5.

Vistabella Picadors Division B, were at Home to Emerald Isle Claymores, Winning on 2 Rinks, Ron Smith, Jeff Neve, Alice Howe 21-14, Alan Whiteley, Denise Howell, Sue Wilson 25-20, Shots 77-84. Points 4-8.

Whitehall 15 to 14.

The Panthers had to set their alarm clocks for the early morning trip up to Montemar for their game and did not disappoint coming away with a great 10 points to 2 win, shots 88 to 73. Winning rinks were Sylvia Rennie, Dave Belton, Jim Rennie 20 to 7, Liz Mildon, Nick Mildon, Kevin Storey 21 to 17, Colin Roberts, Peter Robins, Dean Webb 16-15 New members and guests are always made welcome at the only club in Murcia region competing in the Levante Lawn Bowls Leagues, why not come along to one of our roll up mornings on Tuesday, Thursday or Sunday at 10 am.

PEACOCKS CHARITY PETANCA

LA MARINA BOWLS

The new year starts Jan 1st, but for us bowlers it starts on 9th January when the leagues are half way through.

It proved a very happy new year to our Explorers who were at home to Emerald Isle Neptunes where we came away with 10 points to their 2, although the shots were very tight 72-69 in our favour. Neptunes unhappily turned up with 1 trip short so had to concede 2 points and 10 shots and as you can see that 10 shots proved very important to us.

The Pathfinders were away to Pete Bonsor's Maples at Greenlands and lost 4 points to 8, where unfortunately the shot difference of 2 shots with a total of 79-81 was not in our favour, but it still looked to be a good start to the new year.

Friday 13th and Sharks start with a bye. While the Seagulls are at home to El Rancho and came away with a fine 8-4 win. It was nice to see Lenny Daniels come back from his long cruise with his winning ways, and overall with the 3 games it's a fine start to 2023.

By Dave Hadaway

Carp-R-Us Fishing

Round five of the Carp-R-Us Winter League was fished at the El Bosquet complex, Crevillente. As the night had been pretty mild and temperatures around 20°were predicted, a decent day’s fishing was hoped for. Sadly, it didn’t quite materialise.

Peacocks petanca club, recently hosted a charity petanca tournament at Westvilles. This was the first tournament to be held at Peacocks new venue, following their move to Westvilles last autumn. Twenty-two teams entered the tournament, which was comprised of teams from Peacocks, Dominoes and El Rancho Petanca clubs. Westvilles and Davids Coaches sponsored the tournament, providing medals and cash prizes to the top 3 places. The chosen

charity was Help at Home, who received a cheque for 542 euros, which was later topped up to 600 euros by Rob of Westvilles.

Third place went to Mick, Shirley & Michael of Dominoes Buccaneers. Buccaneers also took 2nd place, with Carol, Kath & Dennis being the line-up. Peacocks reds provided the championship team of Sue, Maurice and veteran old stager, Barry Tolson.

The match was won by Steve Higgins who said he applied all the knowledge he`d gleaned from being a protégé of the late, great Ivan Marks to put 8.30kg on the scales from peg 3. Second, despite moaning all day about his draw, was Nick Bastock with 6.04kg from peg 22. Third was the old maestro Terry Screen with 5.92kg and fourth was Willie Moons with 3.66kg. All in all, it was a tough day’s fishing that sadly produced three dry nets. Further information about the club can be found on its website www.carp-r-us.weebly.com or on the Facebook page Carp-R-Us Fishing Costa Blanca.

San Miguel Dolphins v Country Bowls Flamingoes

TORRY BEAT ALGORFA IN 7 GOAL THRILLER

SC Torrevieja defeated CF Atletico Algorfa 4-3 in a seven goals thriller to remain on course for promotion in the Valencia 1st Regional Group 8. Goals from Manu Amores,Hucha (2) and Enrique bagged the vital three points as the race for promotion hots

up.

Hucha scored after 18 minutes from the penalty spot,following Manu's goal nine minutes into the game.

Hucha put Torry level at 3-3 on 56 minutes as the goals continued to flow.

Enrique netted the winning goal for

Torry after 65 minutes. Torry's starting line-up was Chus,Edu,Lucas,Campillo, Hector,Cristian,Manu Amores,Omar,Gonzalo, Manu Paredes and Hucha.

CD Montesinos defeated Dolores 3-1 with Girona and Pato (2) scoring Monte's goals.

Sporting Costablanca

Torrevieja CF B defeated CD Benijofar 5-2 in the Valencia 2nd Regional Group16. Marcelo,Marcus (2) and Diogo (2) netted Torry's goals to bag the three points.

CF Sporting San Fulgencio took a point in a 1-1 draw away at UD Crevillente FB, with Miguel Angel getting Sporting's goal.

NEW YEAR AT LA FINCA FOR LA MARINA

The first game of 2023 saw 28 players take on La Finca Golf Course at nearly 5943 meters this course has been designed for tournaments. The natural setting provides majestic views of lakes, trees and mountains but it also challenges and makes the game more exciting, including the challenging island green on 5th.

The weather was sunny and warm which made the day very enjoyable for everyone.

Today’s winner was Dave Slightham with 39 pts and therefore winning the Paul Gibson Trophy. In second place was the day’s sponsor Paul Gibson with 37 pts and in third place was Gordon McLagen.

Nearest the pins winners were Hole 3 Gordon McClagen, Hole 6 Gill Ludkiewicz, Hole 13 Iain Lyall and Hole 16 Bill Stobo. Three players also shared a very healthy twos pot.

We would again like to thank the Sports Complex for providing us with our after-match refreshments.

The presentation was made to today's winners by this year's Captain Iain Lyall who also took the opportunity to welcome another two new members to the society.

Brady takes Gold @ Lo Crispin Golf Society

Twenty seven members, including those playing for handicap and four guests 'teed it up' at La Finca in the Society's first game of the year, an individual stableford competition.

Golfers like other people have hopes and expectations for the new year, some with both hopes and expectations, some with more hope than expectations that the 'golfing gods' will be kinder to them this year.

Those who won the main prizes for the day though were by and large those who did so for the majority of last year ! During the day the weather warmed up, although some strong breezes on a number of holes, proved to be quite challenging.

We returned to the Lo Crispin Tavern after the game as we have always done and the day's prizes were distributed. Gold Division 1st. Place - Richard Brady 36 pts off 18, 2nd. Place - Andy Quinn 33 pts off 11 3rd. Place - Ian Stuart 28 pts off 15

Silver Division - 1st. Place - Steve Harrington 27 pts off 34, 2nd. PlaceKeith Rennison 26 pts off 28, 3rd. PlaceJulie King 23 pts off 33

N.T. P. on Par 3s

Hole 3 - Nobody managed to reach or stay on the green. Hole 6 - Andy Quinn, Hole 13 - Alan Watson, Hole 16 - Steve King

Guest Prize - Tyrene Turner 31 pts off 37 The 2's pot was shared by Andy Quinn, Steve King and Howard Turner. Finally, the Free Game Draw was won by John Dunnion.

Steve Harrington, Membership and Handicap Secretary.

GREAT SUPPORT FOR SMILING JACKS GS AT VISTABELLA

What a massive turn out for our Smiling Jack's Golf Society and a big thank you to you all from ‘El Presidente’ for supporting us.

A thanks also goes out to vista Bella for looking after us and what a great course. More thanks required for Get and Al for looking after us and a special thankyou goes to Julie for preparing a fantastic feast for us yet again.

Great comments on the food and really appreciate it.

We had a great day of sunshine on this beautiful course. We also had some very good scores come in as well, shown alongside:

Nearest the pin on 2 was Tom Burke, Nearest the pin on 11 was nobody, Nearest the pin in two on 12 was Chris Ayres.

In second place with a fantastic 41 points and new handicap of 24 was Neil Piling while this month's winner, with an outrageous 45 points, and new handicap of 25 was Paul Cox, well done.

A special thank you to Ger for donating our raffle prize of a free Smiling Jack's Golf Day, the winner of which was John Rooney.

Again a big thank you to you all for your wonderful support.

El Presidente

La Finca: a course with many challenges

Enrique netted the winner for Torry on 65 minutes.

10 JANUARY2023

FOUNDERS FORMATWEEK 4

Primadonnas15 - 5Friendly Temps

Friendly Chicas8 - 15Ladybirds

Whacky Allsorts7 - 13Tipsy Tigers

Dolly MixturesP- PGap Girlz

LEAGUE TABLE PPts

Ladybirds438

Primadonnas440

Gap Girlz321

Friendly's Temps442

Tipsy Tigers445

Whacky Allsorts455

Friendly's Chicas342

Macklin's Dolly Mixtures226

The Gaps Girlz¥ match got postponed this week which has allowed the Ladybirds and Primadonnas to slip in above them on the league table, both having achieved convincing

wins this week. Friendly Temps floundered a little without their captain and vice-captain but still achieve a credible 4th place. This week¥s highest score and also check-out was courtesy of Pat Schofield, Captain of the Tipsy Tigers.

HOTDARTS: Pat Schofield (TT) 140, 108, Groa Bryndis (PD) 138, 119, 100 x 2, Mitch Halliday (PD) 133 x 3, 109, Sharon Frain (PD) 133, Monique Edelenbos (FT) 133, Sarah White (FC) 132, Ann Wharton (FT) 125, Chris Greenwood (WA)121, 103, Di Lane (PD) 121, Simone de Lacy (TT) 117, Ellie Attwood (FT) 116, Helen Bushell (FC) 114, 100, Margaret Boden (WA) 111, Sue Cam (LB) 104, Lisa Ivill (TT) 104, Nicola Moseley (FT) 104, Jane Barnes (WA) 100, Alison Webster (FC) 100

HIGHESTCHECK-OUT: Pat Schofield 108, 18-T18-D18, Sue Cam 85

SUDUK SUDUK O SOLUTION O SOLUTION

QUIZ FROM PAGE 14:

1. The snake. Swallowing its own tail. 2. Abba, 3. Three Answers: a. M:A.S.H, b. Jurassic Park, c. Planet of the Apes, 4. Two answers. a. Papa was a rolling stone and b. Ode to Billie Joe, 5. In the Ghetto, 6. Animism, 7. 8:15 (am) 8.15. 57 sec exactly, 8. Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkey and Turkmenistan, 9. Southampton, Cherbourg and Queenstown (Cobh), 10. c. Butterfly, 11. d. In 2021, Malta had the fastest growing population in Europe, with a growth rate of 2.14 percent, with Andorra having the second-fastest growing population at 1.66 percent. 12. The Red Cross and the Red Crescent, 13. Bass Strait, 14. Iceland, Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal and Norway. 15. North America, 16. Volga, Danube and Ural, 17. Antarctic and South America. 18. 29 %. 19. Bay of Fundy. 20. Antarctic

This week´s highest score and also check-out in The LINEA DIRECTA Ladies Darts League was courtesy of Pat Schofield, Captain of the Tipsy Tigers.