The Leader Newspaper 23 October 2023 – Edition 994

No 994 Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

office@theleader.info

637 227 385

Now in our 20th year of keeping people safe and informed - The Costa Blanca’s oldest ‘FREE’ English language newspaper

ECO-PARK - YES PLEASE, BUT NOT IN MY BACK YARD!

SUNDAY 29 OCTOBER

s awareness for the care of our environment becomes increasingly widespread, one of the most requested facilities by residents of Orihuela Costa is an Eco park, a selective collection facility that can be accessed by all inhabitants of the municipality, which can then be used to deposit the waste that cannot be collected in the usual containers on the roadside.

A

In late September when the Councillor for Street Cleaning, Rocío Ortuño, announced the creation of two such parks, one in Orihuela City and the second in Orihuela Costa, there was much celebration amongst residents that they were finally going to get their wish.

But then came the announcement of the park location in Lomas de Cabo Roig, on the edge of a large upmarket residential area, overlooking the AP7 motorway and adjacent to the plot that currently serves as a temporary parking lot for the refuse lorries.

Within a matter of hours social media sites were overrun with comments, but the mood had changed with the vast majority of those leaving posts supportive of the principle, but extremely critical of the chosen location.

JANE WAUGHMAN wrote “totally unacceptable in a residential area due to the noise and health hazards, dangerous location overlooking the AP7 - high risk of debris reaching the motorway, especially in high winds, and increased traffic on the inadequate bridge across the AP7 will cause more danger to cyclists and pedestrians.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

PAGE 2

www.theleader.info

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Eco - Park for Orihuela Costa KAY FELLOWES wrote about her objections to the location saying,“the road from Cabo Roig to Villamartin has increased in traffic over the last 15 years. There are no pavements along the roads or walkway over the bridge. People's lives are already in danger in this area, without increasing the traffic. We also suffer the smell from the sewage plants. We have the dust lorries going up and down every night. Please put it somewhere else.”

ROSEMARY NALTY had a similar comment, “Completely unacceptable in a residential area.

Constant noise from cars and trucks trundling into the area. Disgusting smell from rotting food left on recyclable rubbish and breeding ground for flies and vermin as a result.

“The site of the refuse lorry storage area/ green waste collection is managed appallingly. No fence on site, people driving up at any hour of night to dump God knows what, trucks driving in all through the night wake residents multiple times every night.

“Paper rubbish is dumped on site and is then collected up to be stored in a container. Half of the rubbish blows away all around the road.

This is never tidied up. The site next to the refuse truck storage park is covered with litter all the time. This mismanagement of the site does not instil any confidence in the management of the new Eco Park. It will be the same

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023 story all over again.”

MARTHA HOLT was even more forthright, accusing the Orihuela council of having no concern for either the residents or the environment.“In Orihuela Costa, there is no NonResidential place. Here is the consequence of giving construction permits without good planning, without planning the well-being of the inhabitants and the environment. What sadly happens the EEEE is what Speaks. Now to put this “Ecopark” in a residential area, I ask the Official authorities, are they looking at the well-being of the inhabitants and the environment? Is this the right place, or are they just not interested?”

Of the 110 or so posts on the AVCRL Facebook page almost every one was of the same opinion, but with Orihuela Costa being predominantly urbanised and devoid of a suitable industrial park that could accommodate the facility only NANCY PETERS came up with a sensible recommendation for an alternative site.“Unacceptable in a residential area! But why not connect the Eco park to the water treatment station? Hardly anyone sees it there and there is plenty of room.”

To me as a simple layman, that seems to be an eminently sensible suggestion, Nancy.

Such has been the furore since the announcement of the location that last Wednesday AVCRL published a survey asking for votes on the proposed location. Over 400 residents have

According to ROSEMARY NALTY, “The site of the refuse lorry storage area/ green waste collection is managed appallingly.”

POETRY MOVEMENT

CORNER GISELLE - THE BALLET

Theatre grows still, murmurs subside.

Anticipation, excitement audience reside.

Crash of cymbals Giselle’s in full flight.

On tips of her toes, arms stretched, back upright.

Her story relived on stage entertain.

Sadness and helpless we feel through her pain.

Quietly musical orchestra plays.

Awakening senses no more delays.

Effortlesly precariously a vision in white.

Serene in her movements caught in spotlight

An evening of pleasure ends in a trance.

What beauty the movement of music and dance

Curtain rises floorboards laid bare awaiting the dancers spotlights full glare.

Music grows louder her movements increase.

Music now quiet Giselle at peace

Carol Garrett October 2023

To see your poem published on this page send to: office@theleader.info

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

already voted, with, as I write this article, 78% voting against the proposed location.

Spokesperson Tomas Moreno will be passing the figures onto the Mayor and his Councillor next week, and it will be interesting to see what notice, if any, they take.

If you have not yet cast your vote on the poll, and you would like to do so, just search for the AVCRL Facebook page.

In the meantime, the Councillor responsible for making this important decision, Rocio Ortuño, who has no former experience in either evironmental or waste matters, who just happens to be the daughter of the president of the Association of Moors and Christians and a close friend of Mayor Pepe Vegara, explained that “procedures are already underway to transfer the Lomas plot to the Alicante Provincial Council to expedite the project, which must also have environmental authorisation.”

“Once the land is transferred there will be a project drafting period of 2 months and an execution period of 4 months, so we hope that by next summer the eco park will be up and running and providing service to the people of Orihuela Costa thus fulfilling a historical demand from the residents.”

ADVERTISING SALES

637 227 385 sales@theleader.info PROPERTY

637 227 385 E-mail office@theleader.info Website www.theleader.info 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 PART OF THIS NEWSPAPER MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHERS.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

LOW COST AIRLINES CONTINUE TO GAIN MOMENTUM IN SPAIN ow-cost airlines transported 43.5 million international passengers to Spain between January and September of this year, which represents 6.1% more and an increase of 2.5 million tourists compared to the same period in 2019, according to data released at the weekend by Turespaña.

L

In the first nine months of 2019, 40.9 million travellers arrived in Spain via 'low cost', which represented 55.1% of the total 74.3 million international passengers, while this year the figure is 59.5% of the total of 73.1 million passengers.

The situation was quite the opposite, however, for traditional airline companies, which failed to exceed the pre-pandemic figures between January and September, being 10.9% below, that is, with 3.6 million fewer passengers.

In terms of nationalities, 31.3% of international tourists who arrived at 'low cost' were British, with 13.6 million, 269,847 more than in 2019. Germany was the second largest market, with 5.4 million, 4.7% lower than the pre-pandemic level. They are followed

by Italy (+11.2%), France (+13.6%) and the Netherlands (+7.4%).

Vueling is once again in second place in this classification with 35.4 million passengers, 6.7% more than before the pandemic.

They are followed by Iberia (+3.4%) and Air Europa (-12.6%).

Another 'low cost' airline, Iberia Express, transported 9.1 million international tourists (+18.8%).

TOURISTS UP TO SEPTEMBER In total, Spain received 73.2 million passengers from international airports during the first nine months of the year, which is 19.1% more than in 2022, but 1.5% lower than the 2019 figure.

In September, passengers from international airports who arrived in Spain numbered 9.5 million, 13.2% more than in the same month of 2022 and practically back to the pre-pandemic level.

The acting Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, Héctor Gómez, wrote in a press release that the diversification of the markets of origin, "is great news for the image of a sector that is experiencing a profound revolution in terms of quality of destinations and tourist experiences available to travellers.

In terms of the busiest airports, Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat once again leads the number of passengers received by low-cost airlines, with 9.1 million, although that is 6.4% below the 2019 figure.

It is followed by the airports of Palma de Mallorca, with 6,697,314 (+14.7% compared to 2019%); Málaga-Costa del Sol, with 5,219,804 (+10.8%); Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández, with 4,549,813 (+5.7%); and Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas, with 3,448,274 (-18.8%).

RYANAIR CONTINUES AS THE LEADER This trend of increasing passengers in low-cost airlines is once again led by Ryanair since, with data from Aena, it is the airline that tops the ranking of passenger traffic to and from Spanish airports, with a total of 46, 5 million passengers, 19.7% more than in 2019.

667 184 925 sales@theleader.info

www.theleader.info

PAGE 3

PAGE 4

T

www.theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

COMMUNITY CARE ASSOCIATION

he CCA, located at Centro Civico Alameda del Mar Orihuela Costa, are seeking Tutors to teach Spanish Basic Beginners, Intermediate level 2 and Conversation.

The classes are made up of multinational students wanting to learn the Spanish language to integrate and learn the customs of Spain. We need a Tutor to start the Winter Term for 8 or 10 weeks from 6th November 2023.

We also need Tutors to teach Crafts, Games and Quiz sessions. Travel expenses paid.

Should you be interested and want to know more about CCA, become a Tutor, to learn Spanish or want to join any of the activities CCA provide, CONTACT :- oc.communitycare@gmail.com

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

CONFLICTS AND DISARMAMENT THIS WEEK

he week begins in Spain with the publication of the public administration debt for August, the data on doubtful loans for this same month, and the hotel survey (occupancy, price index and profitability indicators) for September.

T

Later in the week, we will also see how GDP sits in Spain with the latest figures being released, and all indicators are that it could be a positive impression, as Spain´s figures are constantly being revised overall with a more positive outlook.

On the roads of Spain, the Guardia Civil will be paying closer attention to working vehicles this week, including vans and truck, as well as buses, and in fact any kind of working vehicle.

October consumer confidence in the eurozone will also be released on Monday. Although it continues at historically low levels, the indicator has chained two months of increases, and, in line with the improvement shown by the ZEW survey, it could register a rebound again although we will need to wait to see the impact of the conflict between Israel and Hamas on the sentiment of European households and companies.

On Tuesday the 24th, investors will focus their attention on the publication of the advance PMIs for the Eurozone. No major variations are expected, both in the services and manufacturing sectors, although the indicator will reflect the initial impact of the conflict between Israel and Hamas on the Eurozone economy.

The week will end with the ECB meeting, which is debating whether to increase interest rates by 25 bp or maintain the price of money at its current level. Likewise, in Spain we will know various macroeconomic references on the labour market and economic activity. The Institute of National Statistics will also publish the latest mortgage statistics this week, along with property transfer data.

From a business development point of view, the report due for release on Wednesday detailing the use of information and communications technologies and electronic commerce in companies might be of particular interest.

At the business level, various companies will present their results for Q3 2023. Specifically, large companies such as Puma, Santander,

Deutsche Bank, BNP, Volkswagen, and Air France will publish their profits between June and September throughout the week.

Whilst Israel will no doubt dominate headlines around the world, Afghanistan will also return to the limelight as the first witnesses are set to appear before the Independent Enquiry in the UK with a number of high-ranking military officials facing questioning over their knowledge of potential extra-judicial killings.

The inquiry is examining the activities of British Special Forces operating in Afghanistan from 2010-2013 amid numerous allegations of extrajudicial killings of civilians in night raids and other operations.

Also in the UK, next weekend, Just Stop Oil has pledged to resume its protests on the streets of London on Sunday. In a letter issued to police unions in September, the group warned they would be back in action if the government refused to negotiate with them on the environment and climate change.

In the UK political field, Wednesday marks a whole year since Rishi Sunak was appointed Prime Minister, and Wednesday of course sees PMQs, so we can expect the anniversary to be marked in the playground commonly called Parliament, whilst Keir Starmer no doubt rides the wave of the two byelection victories last week.

We must also remember that next weekend marks the official end of summer, when we put our clocks BACK, and we can feel a little bit of sympathy, perhaps, for night workers who will have to spend an extra hour at the respective “coal faces”.

Finally, special days of note this week recognise and raise awareness of subjects such as polio, climate change, print, and black cats, and whilst conflicts are continuing in various parts of the world, it is perhaps important to note that this week is Disarmament Week, a United Nations commemorative event starting on 24 October, the anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, because, as Secretary General of the UN, António Guterres says, “Disarmament must be brought back to the centre of our common efforts for peace and security”.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

www.theleader.info

PAGE 5

PAGE 6

www.theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

43 YEARS FOR DOUBLE MURDER IN ORIHUELA A man has been sentenced to 43 years in prison for the double murder of an 80-year old mother and her 50-year old son in Orihuela last year.

The house where the double murder took place

Band’s debut performance scheduled for San Miguel

T

'Top of the Pops' will be the musical theme so come and join us for an evening of all your favourite hits, past and present.

The band will be joined by a popular local singer.

We are very much looking forward to this event, tickets are available from Bargain Books in San Miguel as well as The Card Shop in Punta Prima and Benimar or by phoning Graham on +34 711 056343 or Pat on +34 646 031 584.

Despite his defence stating that he was not aware of the incidents because of his addiction to drugs the judge said that it was proven that consuming cocaine was no reason for him to have lost consciousness and that he must take responsibility for his actions.

The sentences of 43 years (20 for the murder of the son and 23 for the murder of the mother) were requested by the prosecution and the lawyer for a

office@theleader.info

he Costa Blanca International Concert Band under the musical direction of Jeremy Davies will give it's first concert at the Union Musical, San Miguel this coming Saturday 28th.October starting at 7.30pm.

It was proven that the octogenarian died as a result of the strong blow she received on the head after being hospitalised and sedated for almost two months. It was also proven that her son was unable to defend himself when he too was hit by the hammer.

The deliberation of the jury lasted more than four hours after the accused pleaded not guilty at the hearing.

637 227 385

The band is totally international with musicians from the UK, Spain, Norway and Germany. We are always looking for more players to join us, contact Graham by phone (above) or email: robinsongraham256@googlemail.com.

Alternatively, just come along to one of our rehearsals. We rehearse every Friday downstairs in the library, San Miguel from 4.30 pm to 7 pm, you will be made very welcome.' private prosecution, Irene Gasch.

doing."

According to specialists, despite the fact that the subject had consumed cocaine "there was no evidence of any mental disorder, he was aware of his actions, and he certainly knew what he was

While the mother survived the attack for almost 2 months, the 50-year-old son died almost instantly after receiving a strong blow with a hammer, which caused nine fractures in his skull.

ORIHUELA TOURISM NOVEMBER ROUTES There will be two routes of note for the coastal population in November, the first for English speakers on 17 November, the “Blue Trail of Cabo Roig” route, starting at Playa de la Zenia at 4:30 p.m. The aim is to make the wealth of Orihuela known to the English speaking population.

On 26 November at 11:30 a.m. the tour will comprise of a visit to the “Military Detachment in Orihuela Costa.”

This will be a good opportunity to discover and learn first-hand about the functioning of this military detachment where they will explain their role during a trip inside the barracks.

Route bookings can be placed on the website at: www.orihuelaturistica.es

For further information, please, contact the Orihuela Playa tourist office phone number 96 676 00 00, ext.

4507 or send a Whatsapp to the following number 673 836 385.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

FOUR 1 YEAR OLD TURTLES RELEASED IN GUARDAMAR

www.theleader.info

Palm tree pruning tender to benefit Orihuela City Orihuela Council has just put out to tender a new contract for the pruning of palm trees in the city. The budget is 37,200 euros, and the contract will last for one year, extendable for another 12 months.

Once again, however, the coast, where palm tree pruning has not been carried out for 18 months, has been ignored.

The subject has become a regular complaint in recent months, especially in areas such as La Zenia, Cabo Roig and Aguamarina where the pavements are covered with trodden in palm tree nuts.

he Oceanogràfic Foundation has released four turtles into the sea on Wednesday morning from the beach of Guardamar del Segura, in Alicante. They are the only sea turtles that have survived from the nest found detected in 2022 in the Valencian Community.

T

These four turtles, all males, have spent a year in the growth and reintroduction program at the Oceanogràfic facilities of the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències of Valencia.

Each of the turtles had a satellite transmitter fitted by the University of Valencia, in collabo-

ration with the UPV, within the Life-Med Turtles project. This technology will allow scientists to closely track their behaviour, providing important data to continue scientific research and conservation of the species.

Experts say they are very optimistic as the survival rates of the animals when entering the sea are around 90%, which means success for the conservation of the species.

The Guardamar nest, found on July 26, 2022, contained 131 eggs, but despite the large number only four hatched and managed to survive.

The reasons behind this low hatching rate remain unknown.

PAGE 7

It is now 18 months since trees on the coast were last cut

The Neighbourhood Association of Cabo Roig and Lomas has expressed its "disappointment" and is demanding a similar contract for the coast, as the garden service covers only a small part of the green areas. "We continue to feel discriminated against by the city and villages and we don't see anything changing," they say.

PAGE 8

www.theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

ANTHURIUM FLAMINGO FLOWERS!

gazed in horror at the birthday card on my breakfast tray. As far as I knew, my wife wasn't dyslexic, and yet the card claimed I was 77. I bet they don't sell many of those. I pulled the bedclothes back over my head and returned to my dream about 1946, the year Mensa and I were both born.

Coincidence, or what?

I

Someone called Lancelot founded Mensa, but I like to think of myself as more of a Sir Galahad, although modesty prevents me from pointing out what a Prince Charming he was. I think that's called a mixed metaphor.

BEN NEVIS

The dawn broke again and I awoke again.

Judging by the small cake with one candle on it, I must have reached the age where the actual amount of candles would cost too much and their flames would melt the cake and be a health and safety issue. Or was one candle a way of saying, "See if you can blow that out."

Old age tends to make you look back rather than forwards. Childhood as opposed to second childhood. For most of the time -- cliché alert! -- we were happy. Or sometimes. Or occasionally, when our shoes didn't leak. Rose-tinted glasses cost nothing. (There's probably a free app for them nowadays, in fact.)

Everyone makes jokes about getting old, no matter how young they are. "At my age, flowers scare me," said George Burns.

But the laughter is perhaps a bit more shrill when you realise most of the jokes could now apply to yourself. The joke is on me, ha ha, sob, whimper. Still, you've got to laugh, haven't you?

Seventy-seven. So far, this is the oldest I've ever been, rather than the oldest I've ever felt. And it does have some dubious advantages. You can afford everything on the menu, but have the appetite of a spar-

Anthurium is a plant that is generally an indoor plant- but grow well outdoors in warm climates such as on the Costa Blanca South.

Commonly called flamingo flowers, due to their unique distinctive tropical bright red heartshaped waxy spathes, with red or yellow tail like flower spikes that constantly bloom for about six weeks, and may return flowering every few months.

They thrive in bright, indirect light, but do not like exposure to direct sunlight, except in the winter months.

Plant in well-draining soil, that should be kept slightly moist and never allowed to dry out completely.

row. And the older you get, the earlier it gets late, so all-night clubbing is out. I've lived long enough to be among the first to be vaccinated, but the last to be picked for pub-quiz teams, because of my failing memory. My alleged failing whatever-itwas.

We oldies are notoriously inept when it comes to technology, even when that used to mean inserting a video cassette the right way up in a gramophone. Once when I tried to photoshop an image of a holiday in Iceland, the result made it seem as if Earth was actually being heated by two suns. I may have been responsible for global warming.

There is no doubt that at my age the best

thing about being 77 is still being alive at 77, which has always been one of my favourite ages, although that might change next year. My favourite song? You've guessed it -- Staying Alive by the Bee Gees: "I'll live to see another day..." And if not, then the joke -- and the drinks -- are on me.

David Aitken has finally decided to put away his quill. This is his last Leader column, but although retireing from writing he is not retireing from life.

We thank him for all the joy he has brought to us all through his weekly column and wish him well for whatever new challenges might now lie head.

It is recommended to use a high phosphorus weekly, weak liquid fertiliser throughout the growing period.

Many varieties are epiphytic in natural settings, which means they grow and climb on other plants, instead of in soil. Should your plant fail to support itself, give it a stake or small trellis to climb on.

Potted anthuriums prefer a rich but well draining potting mix that should be kept moist, but not wet.

Remove any dying or wilting leaves and faded flowers by cutting them off at the base.

Shape your plant by snipping off any errant leaves or shoots that make the plant look off balance, but do not remove too many leaves; leave at least three or four on the plant.

You can propagate by air root or stem cuttings and also from seed; however, this way can take up to four years before you see any flowers.

Note: Anthurium is toxic to humans and pets.

667 184 925 sales@theleader.info

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

www.theleader.info

PAGE 9

Victims of sexual explotation released in Almoradí

The National Police has arrested six people belonging to a criminal organisation.

They are accused of deceiving women with the offers of a cleaning job to regularise their immigration status into Spain and then forcing them to act as prostitutes to repay the "debt" of their travel expenses from Brazil.

The women have now been released from a property in Almoradí following a joint operation between the National Police and the Federal Police of Brazil that has concluded with six arrests.

The gang leader deceived her victims promising them a cleaning job, while stating that she would pay for their trip and then regularise their situation in Spain.

However, once in the country, they were forced to become prostitutes to pay the debt for their travel, which was half of the money obtained from providing sexual services.

The gang members allegedly took advantage of the victims' religious beliefs to, through rituals, prayers and offerings, achieve "absolute loyalty" to the leaders of the organisation.

They exercised "tough control" over the victims through video surveillance cameras that they established in the brothel.

The gang exploited the women 24 hours a day and they were not able to refuse any clients or rest. From the small amount of money they were allowed to keep they had to pay for rent, food, and even water.

The National Police is in a constant fight against trafficking and they regularly carry out appeals for help and information from the general public.

Should you have information on crimes of this nature you can call in complete confidence using the telephone number 900 10 50 90 or the email address trafficking@policia.es without the call being reflected on your telephone bill.

Since the beginning of 2023, the Police have received a total of 5,235 communications by these means (2,230 calls and 3,005 emails), thanks to whose information 19 successful police operations have been carried out, resulting in the arrest of 70 people and the release of 73 victims, of which two were minors.

ORIHUELA STILL OWES ASOKA ANIMAL SHELTER 53,000 EUROS FOR 2021 rihuela is still to settle its debt settled with the animal shelter Asoka.

The Council still owes the facility 53,000 euros for services provided in 2021.

O

"This situation is unacceptable, since the City Council is the one who must ensure the correct functioning of the service," said councillor Quique Montero.

Cambiemos announced that it will ask the government to include the item in the agenda of the next October plenary session as an extraordinary budget modification to finalise the payment.

Montero added that, "this situation has continued for too long, due to an inexcusable lack of political will.

This payment, they say "has unnecessarily prolonged an unsustainable economic situation that began in March 2021 when the service contract expired." Since then, Asoka have faced problems covering essential expenses, which have been met thanks to the generosity of individuals.

The circumstance that could be resolved in the short term, perhaps not by addressing all of the demands, but by providing an economic respite to the association's workers and volunteers, who in recent years have carried out almost superhuman work to help and improve the situation of the most vulnerable beings in our municipality.

PAGE 10

www.theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Do you take a good photo? ou might often hear the denunciation of some dame that ‘she loves the sound of her own voice.’

This criticism is generally directed at a man or woman known for having ‘the gift of the gab’ or the more unflattering title of being a ‘prattle box!’ The fact is though that very few of us like the sound of our own voice when it is recorded.

Y

But what about a photo? Some people are happier studying their own picture than are others. Do you take a good photo then? Let me put it to you another way … the real tester: Are you happy with your passport photo? Driving licence then? I thought as much …

Personally I was never mad about a photo of myself (not now, Gorls!) until I looked back on it 20 years later and compared it to the now.

That’s another thing; we were all better looking than we realised at the time!

Mrs Youcantbeserious hates being photographed. Actually, she comes from a long line of similarly camera shy women – as both her mammy and granny were just as awkward when it came to saying the word ‘cheese.’ They are not alone: Almost 80 per cent of people admit that they do not enjoy having their photo taken.

Feeling ‘awkward’ ‘self-conscious’

and ‘not in control’, were some of the reasons given.

Looking for the perfect photo – as both photographer and subject seem intent on getting nowadays, misses something about photography.

The camera flicks and flashes at a hundred miles an hour and so what is deemed to be the perfect one is the one that sees daylight.

Looking back on old photos, with possibly little flaws, is far more interesting than the mass produced ones of today. Those ‘kept’ albums had far more character and far more discussion points. It could be a child crying at the ‘cheese bit’, or a grandad who forgot to put in his dentures; but definitely, every picture told a story back in the day.

They say the camera cannot lie – but it can and it does. For some strange reason it never does justice to some people – even the famous.

Camilla Parker-Bowles (I can’t remember what her correct title is now) is said to be a lovely warm person with a kind face. But despite the best efforts of camera men down through the years, Camilla, comes across as the exact opposite in photos. Mind you, it can work the opposite way as well! When I ran in the local elections of 2009, we were out canvassing one evening at the other end of the

“Hang on a sec? I think I just took another picture of my ear.” constituency.

I knocked on a door and a lady opened it. Charlie was sort of introducing me; but the woman just looked me up and down for 30 seconds before announcing; ‘You don’t look nearly as good as you do in your photo!’ Vote lost, I would say!

My last year at school and I saved up the price of a camera. I paid I think it was 30 shillings (a couple of Euro) for a Brownie Box Camera. I saved the money over the summer from a job picking spuds for Janey Briody.

The job was not an easy one, but the Briodys were very fair people to work for and I gave half my wages to my mother. To me, this camera was the most miraculous invention of all time. I snapped right, left and

centre. The film would then be left in to be developed and the snag here being that the photos could be in Slatterys for a long time before I might have the money to redeem my catch. Now, I was no John Hinde, but there was many a picture of character and characters.

Some of them are in boxes somewhere to this day.

Having a ‘good eye’ for snapping a picture is a special talent. Seeing that moment and freezing it in time requires a unique talent. I have friends who possess that gift; people like Michael Leonard, John McCauley, Hugh Kiernan – and indeed my brother, Camillus and daughter, Olga.

Then there is sheer and utter genius, coupled with remarkable patience, and you get a James Crombie who captured the now

CHARITY APPEAL IN MEMORY OF MARCELLA, THE DANCING QUEEN charity event, in aid of the Irish Cancer Society and it’s ongoing cancer research, is to be held at Drivers Bar, Villamartin, from 12 noon until late on Saturday 28 October.

A

Held in memory of the Drivers Bar dancing queen Marcella Kennedy, who passed away in July, the event will include an afternoon Pool

Competition, Bingo, a charity raffle, Karaoke and a Rock n Roll evening with all monies raised going to this very worthwhile cause.

Registration for the pool will take place from 12 to 1230 with the bingo getting underway from approximately 1pm. There will be Karaoke with Alison Jane from 7 to 8.30 pm followed by Rock ‘n Roll with Johnny Scott till late.

A charity raffle will be run in tandem with the days activities with one early prize, a voucher for the Virtual Golf Simulator in the Havana Lounge Bar, already promised.

Early registrations for pool via whatsapp to Kathy on +44 7868 896759 or Mike on +34 693 969 872.

world famous murmuration of starlings over Lough Ennell.

The smart phone is amazing, because we are all at the ready and can snap at will with the camera.

Nothing gets missed, but to me the smartphone has devalued photography. The more photos that are taken, the fewer that are kept and some ‘maddening’ people at matches, concerts, and even church services, are so preoccupied with filming the event that they are neither enjoying nor taking part.

The ‘selfie’ is another modern phenomenon. And if you can’t take a good photo of yourself … who can!

DON’T FORGET The height of politeness is to listen with interest to things you know about, from someone who doesn’t.

Dancing Queen Marcella Kennedy

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

www.theleader.info

PAGE 11

Orihuela Costa won’t have poppies on sale this year oppies won't be on sale in bars and restaurants in areas to the south of Torrevieja this year, including the previous RBL strongholds of Orihuela Costa, Pilar de la Horadada, San Javier, San Pedro and La Manga, because of the abandonment and closure by the Royal British Legion of it’s most successful fundraising branch.

P

of at least e40,000 to beneficiaries.

The Poppy Appeal is a volunteer led appeal - without Poppy Appeal Organisers and the many dozens of volunteers, The Royal British Legion will be unable to mount any sort of a campaign on Orihuela Costa.

As a result, Spain District North is set to lose over e40,000 in funds that would otherwise be used to support the armed forces community in this part of Spain.

The Orihuela Costa Branch was closed down by the RBL following accusations of bullying levelled by OC members about the, then, Spain District North Chairman.

Members of the Orihuela Costa Branch announcing a recent Poppy Appeal total in an archived image

Despite overwhelming evidence, with a complete lack of empathy toward their ‘grass roots members, the Legion Complaints Committee, based in London, took almost a year to investigate the complaint, despite the management guidelines stating that all grievances would be investigated within 2 weeks.

gust, a large number of members resigned,

During the intervening period, in their dis-

appointed representative walking out.

resulting in last weeks general meeting attended by just 7 members with the District

As a result, poppies to commemorate fallen British heroes, that would normally be available at over 120 bars and restaurants in the area, will not be on sale in the Orihuela Costa and it’s southern enclaves, with a loss

Fortunately, the very successful Remembrance Day Service will still be held in Mil Palmeras. The largest such service in Spain, regularly attracts in excess of 600 veterans, but with no RBL presence in the area, the event has been organised by local veterans. Once again it will take place in the Capilla de la Mil Palmeras, starting at 1045 am on Sunday 12 November, in the presence of the mayor of Pilar de la Horadada, local VIPs, councillors and staff from the British Consul.

Spain District North regularly raises between e150,000 and e175,000 annually with its Poppy Appeal but with declining membership, closures and unrest in a number of branches, in 2023, that figure will almost certainly be significantly reduced.

www.theleader.info

Arts & Culture

PAGE 12

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY IN TORREVIEJA The Councillor for Festivals in Torrevieja, Rosario Martínez, presented a preview of the upcoming events in the town during the Patron Saint festivities.

“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, the Musical”, Arde Bogotá, Camela and Mocedades with Los Panchos, are just some of the main attractions on offer during the Festival, with tickets already on sale at the Municipal Theatre box office.

On Friday, December 1, the Theatre will host “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, the Musical” with tickets at 15 and 18 euro.

This musical first premiered in London's West End in 2013, breaking box office records until 2017. After several successful seasons, the musical arrived on Broadway in 2017 and toured the United States in 2018; In 2019, they began a tour of Australia and until 2021, visiting Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth. The musical was adapted into other languages ??and, in 2019, premiered in Milan and Norway; In 2021, it arrived in Brazil, France and Denmark.

On Tuesday, December 5, the “Tavi y Carmona” Sports Palace will host the performance of the popular rock group Arde Bogotá, with tickets at 10 euro.

On Thursday, December 7, also at the Palacio de Deportes, Camela will perform, with tickets priced at 10 euro, with their new album “May the music accompany you”, in which they pay tribute to the “Star Wars” universe.

Finally, on Sunday, December 10, the Municipal Theatre will host the performance of Mocedades and Los Panchos, with tickets at a single price of 5 euro. Mocedades are celebrating their more than 50 years with the Trio Los Panchos, represented by their latest lead singer, Rafael Basurto Lara. They are a world reference in bolero and romantic ballads.

ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR RETURNS TO L A MATA he last event in a month of activities to promote local commerce in Torrevieja, will be an arts and crafts fair in La Mata. It will be held from 27 till 29 October on the Plaza Encarnación Puchol.

shoes; from gnomes and puppets to soaps and natural cosmetics; from leather bags to horn combs or designer jewelry, in materials as diverse as silver, glass, macramé, ceramics and natural flowers.

Like last year, the fair will stand out not only for the diversity and originality of its products, but also for the many craft demonstrations: the potter will bring his wheel to offer you the opportunity of making your own cup or bowl, a sculptor will be carving stone and a weaver will be working on her loom.

The musicians of Sol Redò will pass through the fair to create a happy and festive atmosphere and the younger visitors can have fun with board games or participate in workshops to make their own piece of crafts to take home.

T

Other artisans will be making macramé jewelry, working glass with a blowtorch, turning pumpkins into beautiful table lamps, painting or modelling, so you can see with how much love and patience they make their pieces.

There will be a wide range of arts and authentic crafts: from paintings, portraits and artistic ceramics to handmade

The fair, which is organised by AMATA, will be held on the Plaza Encarnación Puchol in La Mata (Torrevieja) from the 27th till the 29th of October and opening times are from 11 am till 2 pm and from 5 till 9 pm, on Friday afternoon only. You can find the programme and photos from last year's fair at: www.puebloartesano.es/Torrevieja.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

www.theleader.info

PAGE 13

PAGE 14

www.theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

637 227 385

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

office@theleader.info

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 993

ACROSS 1.

Face (11) 9.

Land feature (7) 10. Proprietor (5) 11. Law (5) 12. Component (7) 13. Charted (6) 15. Wax cylinder (6) 18. Allegory (7) 20. Correspond (5) 22. Kayak (5) 23. Twister (7) 24. Reliable (11) CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE? Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

Solution on Page 22

DOWN 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

14.

16.

17.

19.

21.

Frequently (5) Candidate (7) Followed (6) Clay brick (5) Vie (7) Wary (11) Fraternity (11) Associate (7) Fan (7) Confer (6) Consecrate (5) Educate (5)

QUICK ACROSS: 1 Yearbook; 5 Rang; 9 Mass; 10 Reprisal; 11 Diary; 12 Capture; 13 Independently; 18 Terrific; 19 Gate; 20 Referee; 21 Havoc; 22 Mild; 23 Standing.

DOWN: 2 Evasion; 3 Reserve; 4 Over-confident; 6 Assault; 7 Gallery; 8 Triple; 13 Interim; 14 Direful; 15 Pliers; 16 Niggard; 17 Let-down.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Flamingo; 5 Spiv; 9 Lees; 10 Coverage; 11 Moral; 12 Heroine; 13 Interest rates; 18 Fair play; 19 Rail; 20 Retired; 21 Vague; 22 Odds; 23 By halves.

DOWN: 2 Lie down; 3 Massage; 4 Good husbandry; 6 Pianist; 7 Viewers; 8 Wearer; 13 Inferno; 14 Twisted; 15 Report; 16 Airmail; 17 Epicure.

ACROSS 1. Almost the winner as 100 waste very little time (5,6) 9. Rail not bent being tested (7) 10. Go red when learner is found in shrub (5) 11. The extent of her anger (5) 12. Erratic arching in mortification (7) 13. So tube can be dull (6) 15. About fifty underneath roar like bulls (6) 18. Related to benevolent Communist (7) 20. He will get a ring and answer thus (5) 22. From a town, and almost polite! (5) 23. The contents of a bag of dismissal notices? (7) 24. Somehow lends lasses ever decreasing amounts (4,3,4)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. Kona, one of the most expensive coffees in the world, is cultivated in which country?

2. Which of the following is a metonym for the American fashion industry? a. Seventh Avenue, b. Times Square, c.

Madison Avenue, d. Fifth Avenue 3. The first Indiana Jones film Raiders of the Lost Ark is set in which year?

4. Which kind of juice does one mix with vodka, triple sec and lime to make the cocktail Cosmopolitan?

5. Who is Sweden's 2nd biggest selling music artist after ABBA? 6. What are the two largest beer companies in the world today?

7. Before Adi Dassler broke away to form Adidas, Adi and his brother Rudolf were the owners of which shoe and sportswear company?

8. Which US city was once almost completely destroyed in an act of war and therefore uses the phoenix as it's symbol?

9. Thule is the United States of America's most remote military outpost. Where is it located?

10. Which British musician had a record eight number one hit singles

DOWN 2. Admit the French metal (3,2) 3.

Trembles and splinters (7)

4.

Comfort thus with fancy material (6)

5.

Snake found in disco, braggart said! (5)

6.

Run late, but not into siding (7)

7.

Incompetent watchman has low prospects (4,4-3)

8.

At that time drew low output in America (3,3,5)

14. Half a score clever? It's feasible! (7) 16. Moral part of the twentieth I call it (7) 17. Strange boy has better then even chances (6) 19. Breaking them puts one out of line (5) 21. Through which hitch-hiking is on the up and up? (5)

( A n s we r s o n p a g e 2 2 ) in the US Billboard Hot 100 in the 1980s? a. David Bowie, b. George Michael, c. Phil Collins, d. Paul McCartney 11. Established in 1642, the oldest figure skating club in the world is found in which capital city?

12. What are the three least densely populated US states?

13. The US Secret Service claims the most sophisticated counterfeit 100 dollar US banknotes are made in which country? a. North Korea, b. Mexico, c. Russia, d. Pakistan 14. What is the only song on the Beatles album Rubber Soul with an animal in the song title?

15. Which fabled creature is also a financial term for a start up company with a stock market valuation of more than one billion dollars? a. cyclops, b. unicorn, c. hydra, d. bigfoot 16. Who was the first tennis player to earn 1 million dollars?

17. Which car is nicknamed "the beast"?

18. Which popular cocktail is named after an Italian Renaissance painter?

19. Name the films in which actor Gary Oldman played each of the following 'bad guys'. a. Egor Korshunov, b.

Mason Verger, c. Jean Baptiste Emmanuel Zorg, d. DEA agent Norman Stansfield 20. Barajas International Airport serves which capital city?

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

SAN FULGENCIO HALOWEEN Get ready to celebrate a scary Haloween in San Fulgencio snolasco@ayto-sanfulgencio.es.

Cash prizes will be awarded during the Halloween party scheduled for Tuesday 31 when there will be a full programme of free activities in the multipurpose hall in Calle Juan Carlos Herrero in the town centre, starting at 8pm.

There will be children's entertainment free hot chocolate as well as a costume parade for all ages, which will begin in Calle Rojales street at 8:30pm.

There will also be a 'Passage of Terror', which will run continuously until midnight, "as well as the escape room activity 'El Desván' (‘The attic’), whose creators have won first prize in the Escape Room Awards," said the Councillor.

The escape room is aimed at participants over the age of 12, who need to sign up via the website www.halloweensanfulgencio.es.

S

an Fulgencio is getting ready to celebrate Halloween in style with residents able to take part until in a contest to decorate facades, balconies and doors with Halloween decorations, until October 27th.

"We want to involve the public and add atmosphere during the days leading up to the festival," said the Councillor for Culture, Sara Nolasco.

Those wishing to participate should send photographs of their houses by email to:

The councillor said that there will also be a 'sobaquillo dinner' without a bar, for which a table must be booked by calling 647 310 732, as well as an orchestra and a musical performance until the early hours of the morning.

There will also be a free bus service, between the town centre and the urbanisation area. The buses will depart from the Tourist Office at the urbanisation, in Calle Amsterdam, at 8:00pm, 9:00pm and 10:30pm; returning from the multi-purpose centre will be at 10:00pm, 12:00pm and 2:00am.

www.theleader.info

PAGE 15

AVCRL MEE TING The General Assembly of the Cabo Roig y Lomas Neighborhood Association (AVCRL) is to be held on November 10, 2023, in the Assembly Hall of the Orihuela Costa City Council (Plaza del Oriol, 1 - Playa Flamenca).

It will include a report on the actions carried out and the proposals for actions to be carried out during the next year.

The assembly will begin at 4:30 p.m. on the first call and at 5:00 p.m. on the second call, and will end at 6:30 p.m.

Members who wish to attend must pre-register by emailing: avocaorihuelacosta@gmail.com, indicating the number of people who will attend.

Those members who cannot attend the assembly wishing to delegate their vote must email: avocaorihuelacosta@gmail.com, stating the name of the member who will represent them.

PAGE 16

www.theleader.info

The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome. Phone or whatsapp the missionaries on 659 016 733 Join us at the SALT CHURCH Sundays at 10.30 am. We are a friendly church, bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship. Meets at Calle Daya Nueva 12, Polígono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. We look forward to meeting you. www.Saltchurchspain.

Facebook SaltChurchSpain International Christian Assembly, Calle Beniajan 14, Torrevieja -Evangelical Church. Sunday Service 11 a.m.; - Contact 966 799 273 / 660 127 276. Evangelical non-denominational church. www.icatorrevieja.org

The Car of the Month at AUTOMOVILES CRESPO is a very attractive 2019 Ford Focus ST-Line Petrol which is priced at just 20,500 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 choice of new and used cars in the area for price, choice and quality. ENGLISH SPOKEN

AGE CONCERN BEREAVEMENT GROUP. Have you lost somebody close to you?

Are you finding life difficult after a bereavement?

Come along and chat to other people in the same situation.

Starting on October 10th, then every Tuesday from 2-4pm at the Age Concern Centre, Calle Paganini, La Siesta, Torrevieja. 96 678 6887.

Everyone is welcome.

Los Alcázares Digital Camera Club. Interested in photography? We invite you to come and join us at our twice monthly meetings. Please contact coordinatorladcc@ gmail.com or see http://www.los-alcazarescamera.club/ for details.

COMMUNITY CARE ASSOCIATION (CCA) Open to residents of Orihuela Costa over 60 years of age.

Located at the Centro Civico

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

Alameda del Mar. Open 3 times a week for a programme of English speaking activities, support, information and advice with the support of Orihuela Council.

Anyone wanting to join CCA social activities can pop along. Open 2pm -6pm Mondays and Thursdays, Wednesday 2pm - 5pm. You can register between 1pm & 2pm on those days, in the Cafe area where you will find Eva or Norah. email: communitycare@gmail.com RAGS CLUB (previously Friendship Centre). Every Tuesday Lunchtime, From a Bun to a Banquet. At Graceys - upstairs La Zenia park in Lidl Carpark.

COME AND PLAY RUMMIKUB. Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you with problem solving and well being for the over 50’s. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Home Visiting Team to visit a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee. Call into our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887. Or email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch now meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 5pm at the Lakeview bar/restaurant, Quesada. For more info contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on +44 7576 117 222, Secretary Steve Hemingfield 0n Mob/Whats

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

711 011 373 The RAFA Costa Blanca RMG is a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Assn.

Contact with the RAFA and the RMG is via the RAFA website rafa.org.uk.

LADIES BIKE Red/Silver Globetrotter, 18 Speed, 18” Frame, 22” Wheels 30 Euros.

GENTS BLACK ROCKRIDER FIVE ZERO BIKE, 21 Speed, 18” Frame, 22” Wheels, 30 Euros. Torre de la Horadada Tel 966 183717

LOOKING FOR Silent Business Partner for small Private Care Home. Invest 10K and get 20K back in 14 months. 747 438 225

Law Services: PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR, Solicitor, Debt Collections, Bad Tenants. 747 438 225

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS If you have items that are WANTED or FOR SALE, ANNOUNCEMENTS, NOTICES and suchlike, advertise them, to a maximum of 35 words, FREE OF CHARGE, on this page.

SEND BY EMAIL TO:

office@theleader.info

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

Hornpipe surprise for Caldero Day delights Spanish passers by t was a sight to behold for the many Spanish passers by. A dozen people, some of advancing years, dressed in striped shirts, white pants and hats, prancing around in unison to a strange tune.

I

October 12th, the Dia de la Hispanidad, national holiday where hundreds take to the beach to celebrate, with many clubs, groups, association and families reserving a pitch with the town hall-

What on earth was it? Why the SAMM Flash Dance for 2023 of course, at the Caldero Day in Los Alcazares on

SAMM, the Sailing Association Mar Menor, has participated for more than ten years, erecting a marquee and

SAMM banner along with B-B-Q’s and tables.

In recent years a Flash Dance routine has been performed each hour to entertain and attract the crowds. For 2023 Christine, our Treasurer’s wife, suggested the Sailors Hornpipe, supplied the hats, organised the music and choreographed the moves which included swabbing decks, hauling on ropes, climbing rigging and drinking grog, all simulated of course.

The performances made many people stop, watch and enjoy the spectacle while they had their photos taken with the dancers or asked about our sailing activities.

Between performances the performers socialised, partied and played the various beach games on offer with the other SAMM members Everybody agreed it was a great social event but now it’s time to get back to serious sailing and our Sunday race days.

To find out everything about SAMM and it’s sailing opportunities visit www.sailingmarmenor.com

www.theleader.info

PAGE 17

Pascual Flores sails the world promoting Torrevieja tourism and culture

NAO FOUNDATION RECEIVES E170,000 PER YEAR FOR MANAGING THE PASCUAL FLORES The Joaquín Chapaprieta Municipal Cultural Institute has confirmed its plan for subsidies until 2026, which ‘rubber stamps’ the continuation of the agreement between the Andalusian Nao Victoria Foundation for historical boats and the Torrevieja City Council. The agreement will see them continue to manage the replica of the Pascual Flores for 170,000 euros per year.

The agreement requires that the ship must dock in Torrevieja for a few weeks every year where it will be opened to the general public.

In addition to receiving this financial support, the Nao Victoria Foundation also makes lucrative tourist use of the pailebote, with guided tours and organised voyages.

PAGE 18

www.theleader.info

by Tony Mayes

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

THE PLAGUE THAT IS TEENAGE VAPING I wouldn’t hold your breath on this one – if money doesn’t win it will be a first!

BRITAIN’S WONDERFUL ROADS You have to have the patience of Job to drive on British roads right now.

Recently Mrs M and I had the dubious pleasure of travelling to Manchester on the UK’s wonderful roads. It was a nightmare, both going and returning. f there’s one thing that is certain in life, if there’s money to me made in something, then people will stop at nothing to exploit it – regardless of the severe damage that could result in it.

I

The first problem was on a dual carriageway A road where two park homes were being taken on low loaders in convoy, with an escort vehicle behind not allowing anyone to pass.

That was true for generations with the hugely lucrative tobacco industry, which made billions out of the manufacture and sale of tobacco products, and which led to countless deaths.

Now OK, perhaps it was reasonable to prevent overtaking, but we passed countless parking lay-bys on the 25 miles we travelled behind these wretched lorries and not once did the drivers have the courtesy to pull in and allow the miles long queue behind to pass.

For years the “industry” did their utmost to pretend that tobacco smoking was not harmful. Politicians also claimed smoking was beneficial – I wonder how many of those wonderful people had shares in the tobacco industry?

Now we have a new curse in the shape of vaping, which has resulted in an epidemic among schoolchildren and teenagers. Billions are now being made in the manufacture and sale of the now “wonder product” which those who are making mega bucks pretend are benefiting society by helping people to quit tobacco smoking.

Dr Mike McKean, vice-president of policy for the Royal College of Paediatricians and Child Health, said vaping was becoming an “epidemic” among teenagers even though it is illegal before the age of 18.

If its rapid growth maintains the same trajectory, almost all children will vape within five years, he said.

He estimated that prevalence could now be as high as 15%, after NHS figures for 2021 showed that 9% of 11- to 15-year-old children used e-cigarettes, up from 6% in 2018, and a figure which rises to 18% for 15-yearolds.

“This is a problem the UK should take seriously. Walk past a school at closing time and you’ll see what happens – large numbers of children vaping,” he said.

It’s sickening that manufacturers would conjure up ways of making their obnoxious products even more appealing by introducing different flavours and colours, knowing full well that this would appeal to ever younger children.

I was horrified to watch a TV interview of a pre-teenage girl who was so addicted to vaping she smoked so many she has permanently damaged her lungs and had to be put into an induced coma to aid her recovery.

How long has it got to be before people will put the well-being of the human race before the addiction of making more and more money? The government is talking about tighter regulation of the vaping industry – but

The M6 around Birmingham was a joke.

Firstly, we had signs telling us to reduce speed to 60pm. Then 50mph and then 40mph with no apparent reason. Then we were directed to quit the outside lane, and then the middle lane, restricting us to one lane, with the hard shoulder not to be used sign.

After a few miles of this and a growing number of motorists deciding to ignore the signs altogether, all the restrictions disappeared all at the same time from the overhead gantries.

Are the people in the control room somewhere just taking ‘extracting the urine’, perhaps seeing how much they can frustrate motorists? Coming back on the same A6 around Birmingham we had an even bigger load of nonsense.

Down came the speed to 60mph, again for no apparent reason, and then a notice came up to cut to 50mph to reduce air pollution!

Can any environmental crackpot explain to me how changing gear from 6th to 5th to cut speed can do anything other than increase pollution?

Perhaps we should have used the toll road instead – but that would have cost £8.60 each way! Milking the motorist or what? And if there is this demand to cut pollution, would it not make far more sense to make the toll road free and stop all the traffic jams which must be creating dirty air?

These motorways are in a sorry state. White lines have not been repainted for ages, and there are many signs so filthy they can hardly be read. And there are several where the plastic cover is peeling off so again, they can no longer be read.

It took 5.5 hours to get from the south to Manchester, a distance of 260 miles. On the continent, with far better roads and less traffic, it would have taken less than four hours.

The Giant Hand of Vyrnwy was carved by Simon O’Rourke and is currently for sale with a guide price of £20,000

I was sickened to watch a TV news item showing people actually boasting about how much they were managing to steal from shops every day, without hindrance from police.

Woman after woman shoplifter boasted how easy it was to shoplift, and one had the utter cheek to blame the police for not catching her.

This is what she said: When people shoplift, they [police] should start putting pictures of the shoplifters on the internet, maybe on the front doors so people can see 'warning', you know, 'shoplifter'. I don't think police quite do their job properly."

BIRCH THOSE SHOPLIFTERS

One UK police force says shoplifting offences have soared by 36% in one year alone, and the trade says shoplifting is costing shops almost £1bn a year. That has to be paid for by higher prices in the shops.

It’s not just British roads which are in a sorry state, it’s British society too.

I’m going to say something highly controversial now, but I think shoplifters should be

publicly birched. If that happened shoplifting would be cut drastically. Offenders know the chances of being caught are near zero and punishments are a joke.

And those horrible teenagers who cut down the ancient sycamore tree growing beside Hadrian’s Wall should suffer the same fate.

People had far more respect for the law when there was corporal punishment.

When judges are told not to send criminals to jail because they are full, then a damn good public birching would be great alternative punishment and far more cost effective too.

On the subject of that tree, I found a picture of a superb sculpture of an arm and hand made from a tree struck by lightning in Wales (pictured above).

Perhaps such a sculptor could be engaged to create similar sculptures from the wood of the felled tree close to the spot where the sycamore once stood.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

www.theleader.info

PAGE 19

ROAD RAGE KILLS n an interview in 2020, when asked about those killed and injured on the roads, the Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, spoke of road rage, or in his words, “road violence”, instead of road accidents.

I

“I like to talk about road violence. The injuries and deaths on the asphalt are not a result of chance. They are a consequence, in most cases, of recklessness, but they are avoidable. There is no need to hesitate, and we have to call things by their name.”

What the minister declared had its logic. The term accident rate implies a degree of accident that presupposes the inevitability of the event, which is what Grande-Marlaska denies, hence the reason we generalise with the term “incident” rather than accident.

Thus, it starts from a speech that defends, as never before, the history of existing road awareness campaigns, aimed at making us all aware of the responsibility we acquire behind the wheel. The road is a public space of coexistence.

Other analogous concepts to road violence would be vehicular violence or aggressive driving. T his entails anti-civic behaviour (if not directly criminal) that can have very serious consequences and that, in urban contexts, can be seen quite frequently, precisely because of the stress to which urbanites are subjected every day.

People who, while driving, are capable of losing control over themselves and exercising road violence towards others, manifest these behaviours in many ways: from honking the horn repeatedly and in places where it is prohibited to threatening other drivers. and even committing aggression.

Braking, acceleration, shouting, aggressive gestures, chases... is what we can encounter when confronted with this type of individuals.

It might seem obvious, but the best way of avoiding road rage or road violence is to stay calm, and the best way to stay calm is to drive with more consideration and within the confines of the regulations, which includes

such things as speed, maintaining the proper distance, giving way, avoiding harsh manoeuvres, and signalling our intentions well in advance of a move, which we subsequently only carry out if it´s safe to do so.

If you do find yourself at the receiving end of

any of the road rage behaviours mentioned, the best advice is to not engage. Remain calm and try to leave the situation in a controlled manner, and should things escalate, stop the vehicle and call for assistance, still without engaging as much as possible.

PAGE 20

www.theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

VISTABELLA END WEEK ON A HIGH A very busy week for Vistabella bowlers but enjoyable meeting old friends. Good results coming which has pleased the club members.

South Alicante Enterprise Division: Vistabella Albatrosses v La Marina Explorers. Home match with good results. Wins for Brian Gilham, Don Conlan & Paul Durham 17-12, Barbara Brown, Freddie Willey & Arthur Brown 23-10 and Derek & Alice Howe plus Maggie Furness 23-22. Close on points scored Vistabella 89pts and La Marina 81pts.A win for Vistabella 8pts - 4pts.

South Alicante Discovery Division. Vistabella Drivers v San Miguel Orcas. Good wins for Julia Clarke, John Ridley & Steve Wilson 22- 21, also new boys Dave Hill, Tony Grimes & Graham Doel 22-16, with Rosemarie Savage, Ken Savage & Sue Wilson drawing their game 16-16. Points scored Vistabella 91pts San Miguel 89pts very close! Overall score win for Vistabella 7pts - 5pts.

Wednesday Winter League: Vistabella v Er Rowdies (El Rancho). Home match with excellent bowling from Vistabella. Wins for Mo. Foulcer, Graham Doel, Martin Foulcer & Sheila Westwood 31-9, Peter Westwood, Barbara Brown, Freddie Willey & Arthur Brown 27 - 14, Tony

GREENLANDS BOWLS with Pearl Houghton The Gladiators from Greenlands didn't fare so well against San Miquel losing 10 to 0 so come on get those swords sharpened back to winning ways.

The Elms of Greenlands had a great result against San Luis winning 8 to 4 what a excellent win CONGRATULATIONs. The Oaks of Greenlands did very well all so with a 10 to 2 victory Emerald Isle keep it going great result.

The Cedars had a tough game against Vistabella and lost 10 to 2 I'm sure once they get the sick and wounded back it will be a different result, so well done on your efforts.

Grimes, Keith Black, Sue Wilson & Maggie Furness 21-10 and Brian Gilham, Alice Howe, Don Conlan & Paul Durham 20 13.

Total scores Vistabella 99pts El Rancho 46pts overall win for Vistabella 10-0. Well played Vistabella bowlers.

LLB Southern league Division C. Vistabella Conquistadors v San Miguel Cherokees. A very tough game for our guys in very windy conditions. Only one winning rink Rosemarie Savage, Ken Savage & Sue Wilson 23 - 14. Overall scores Vistabella 63pts San Miguel 103pts,a good win for San Miguel 10-2.

LLB Southern league Division B. Vistabella Picadores v Greenlands Cedars. Same again a tough game in the wind.

But eventually came out on top.

Good wins for Keith Black, Derek Howe & Maggie Furness 20-12, Alice Howe, Mo. Foulcer & Sheila Westwood 23 - 11, Barbara Brown, Freddie Willey & Arthur Brown 22-16 and John Goddard, Stuart Allman & Brian Dunn 18 - 11. Overall score Vistabella 99 pts Greenlands 70pts.A very good win for Vistabella 10-2.

A good week for Vistabella bowls club.

Contact: richardwilley321@gmail.com. Tel:698 925 932

MONTE MAR BOWLS AND SOCIAL CLUB Sponsored by The Pub, Gran Alacant Insurances, Dialprix, The Belfry, La Piedra, and Skippers.

Matadors v Grenlands Chestnuts - 16th

637 227 385

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

office@theleader.info

SAN LUIS BOWLS CLUB Monday 16th and the start of the South Alicante League which didn’t go quite as we hoped.

The Klingons were away v Emerald Isle Titans and although there were some close fought games, they had a disappointing morning coming away with 2 points-10, shots 73-96. Winners: Neil & Sandra Burrows, Ian Kenyon 18-16.

The Trekkers, in their first match of the season, had a tough battle at home v our Romulans team, just winning on one rink, well done to Phil & Mary Lockley, Bob Bromley 28-6.

The Romulans took 10 points-2, 100 shots-90. Winners: Catherine & Noel Morrisroe, Barbara Louis 24-10, Judy Carroll, Gordon Paton, Dave Blackie 19-15, Ray Watmough, Ngaio & Peter Baldwin 26-18, Pauline Johnson, Kevin McKenna, Derrick Cooper 25-19.

The Vulcans were home v EI Moonrakers; they were very close on shots 79-81 but unfortunately only took 2 points-10. well done to winners: Lesley & Wayne Howlett, David Whitworth 40-7.

On Wednesday 18th our Winter League team was at home to El Cid and it was lovely to see so many familiar faces after such a long gap. San Luis had a good morning, although there were some great, close heads that could have gone either way, winning 8 points – 2, 77 shots – 52. Winners: Trish Reilly, Keith Phillips, Pat Reilly, Dave Webb 17-11, Cathy Morrisroe, Bill Webb, Noel Morrisroe, Scott Malden 25-13, Jane Hamill, Sandra Burrows, Stewart Hamill, Ian Kenyon 26-8.

Southern League: Friday 20th SL Lions were home to La Marina Sharks, winning 2 rinks and taking the shots 85-78, points 6-6. Winners: Neil & Sandra Burrows, Dave Webb 2612, Helen Hammond, Scott Malden, Ian Kenyon 18-14.

SL Tigers were at home to Quesada Swans. All our teams worked hard, with the green and the scores changing through the morning but eventually the Swans just kept their heads up, leaving the Tigers with 4 points-8, 84 shots- 96. Winners: Joy Gardiner, Vic Mahomet, Jean Cooper 23-19, Bill Webb, Cas Blay, Jim Gracie 22-20. SL Leopards: BYE There were also mixed fortunes for the SL Pumas, away v Greenlands Elms, with the shots close; 84-93, 4 points–8.

Winners: Jim Gwynn, Fran Cox, Maxine Wright 25-13, Jill & Mike Wyatt, Derek Biggs 25-10.

Come & see us; try out OPEN roll ups on Saturday morning (9:30/10:00) & Chicken/egg comp on Wednesday afternoon (1:30/2:00). Have Fun!!

Scribe - Sheila Cammack

October. Away to Greenlands Chesnuts on a very swinging green that took a while to get used to we only managed to win on one rink. Well done to the wining rink Lynne Armitage. Howie Williams skip Phil Goble. Shots Matadors 76 – 102 Chesnuts. Points Matadors 2 – 10 Chesnuts.

Matadors v Emerald Isle Outlaws Friday 20th October. At home to Emerald Isle Outlaws we had a good

El Rancho Bowls Club Monday morning found El Rancho Raiders at Country Bowls, we had a good match and enjoyed the company, all played well, whilst we came away with just one rink, but it’s the enjoyment of playing a game we love with people that share friendship and good fun.

Jean Giddings, Dave Giddings and Jim Eastwood 10-27. Chris Ziepe, Steve Ziepe and John Ziepe 13-14. Tony Abbott, Ann Abbott and Mike Cox 15-14. Derek Barker, Malc Sykes and Diane Yates 15-22. Ann Taylor, Sheila Cox and Bob Taylor 11-20.

On Wednesday the Rowdies played their rinks match at Vistabella and had a tough match against a strong team. Coming away without a point but enjoying the occasion.

result winning on five rinks well done to Julia Hamilton, Howie Williams skip Ian Hamilton, Gina Hindle, Steve Hindle skip Joan Harding, Sheila Roberts, Paul Dodd skip Phil Goble, Des freeman, Tony Kershaw skip Keith Young. Shots Matadors 92 – 64 Outlaws. Pts 10 – 2 .

For further information check out our website www.montemarbowls.com or email us at: info@montemarbowls.com.

We are also on Facebook.

Sheila Cox, Derek Barker, Marion Haynes and Mike Cox 9-31. Frances Johnston, Pam Harris, Diane Yates and Henry Ryder 14-27.

Chris Ziepe, Tony Abbott, Ann Abbott and John Ziepe 10-21. Bill Johnston, Lesley Day, Judy Foley and Bob Day 13-20.

Friday took the Mustangs to Quesada, to play the Swifts where we came away with 2 rinks, a good away result. Chris Ziepe Sheila Cox and John Ziepe 17-11. Bill Johnston Judith Foley and Bob Day 6-25. Lesley Day Pam Harris and Steve Ziepe 7-24. Peter Blackburn, Derek Barker and Diane Yates 1813. Ann Taylor Ron Greenstreet and Bob Taylor 8-26. Bowlers of all levels are welcome at El Rancho, for further membership information contact Sheila Cox at: micksheilacox@gmail.com.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

EMERALD ISLE BOWLS

The Gate retained their annual trophy against E Isle in their friendly match

SAN MIGUEL BOWLS CLUB Mary Whitelock Monday 16th October saw San Miguel Dolphins taking on Country Bowls Flamingoes at home where San Miguel won on 4 rinks and Country Bowls on 1 rink. The shots were 104 to San Miguel and 76 to Country bowls. The highest winning triple was Pat McEwan, Dori Svanbergsson and Ron Nairey who won 30-12.

Also on Monday San Miguel Orcas were away to Vistabella Drivers in the afternoon and came away with a very close

QUESADA BOWLS CLUB with Suzi Cooper...Sponsored by Spanish Life Properties Monday was the first match of the season for our South Alicante sides. In the morning the Pearls played against newly promoted Diamonds.

The Pearls won on all rinks.

Winning teams – Graham Phillips, Mark France & Jason Prokopowycz, Allen Bowen, Carol & Gary Thorpe, Chris Brazier, Terry Morgan & Peter Morgan, Brian Trinder, Claire Dye & Mel Ward, George Carnell, Violet Campbell & Fred Roberts.

In the afternoon it was the turn of the Rubies to host Emerald Isle Neptunes. Only 1 team won Chrissie & Paul Edwards & Peter Bottle. The other games were close & could have gone either way but it was not to be.

Wednesday the Winter League were at home to Benitachell Bandits. They won on 2 rinks drew on 1 plus got the overall for 7 points to 3.

Winning teams George Carnell, Claire Dye, Ann Linley & Suzi Cooper, Allen Bowen, Graham Phillips, Ken Gordon & Gary Thorpe. The team with the draw was Terry Morgan,

Brian Miller, Carol Thorpe & Lin Miller.

On Friday the Swifts were at home to El Rancho Mustangs. Winning on 3 and taking the overall shots for 8 points. Winning teams were – Irene Everett, Vic Slater & Lin Miller. Tina Brinton, Barry Martyn & Peter Bradbury. John Cleal, Paul Edwards & Peter Bottle.

Meanwhile the Swans had a short journey to San Luis to play their Tigers. They too managed to win on 3 plus the overall for 8 points.

Winning teams – Dorothy Benson, Peter Farrell & Abby Benson, Ann Heath, Linda Armstrong & Barry Armstrong, Carl Evans, Bryan Elliott & Suzi Cooper.

The Swallows had an early start down to Country Bowls. They managed 2 wins but missed out on the overall, so 4 points.

Winning teams Chris Brazier, Mark France & Peter Morgan, Graham Phillips, Carol Lowry & Keith Lowry.

www.theleader.info

PAGE 21

Titans began their season at home against San Luis Klingons and they got a fine 10-2 Aggregate of 96-73, D Jones M Ellis B Kavanagh 19-7, N Davis G Odell M Dyer 21-13, D Mooney S Marks R Marks 21-18, N Prior Jo Pering Julian Pering 19-17

were beaten 4-6 Aggregate of 66-86, D Mooney K Barber S Marks R Marks 21-18, N Davis M Ellis M Hartley C Lindgren 16-14

Neptunes travelled to Quesada Rubies, and they got a fine 10-2 Aggregate of87-67, M Riley R Pollack K Barber 20-12 S Johnson J Sayers K Jolliffe 17-11, V Cameron D Taylor T Upham 17-13 C Thomas D Laverick J Taylor 18-14

Claymores were at Country Bowls Panthers, and it was a bad day at office, losing 0-12 Aggregate 114-62

Moonrakers played at San Luis Vulcans, and they came away with a brilliant 10-2 Aggregate of 81-78 win, D Clark J Holmyard A Forrest 24-9, J Ball J Speedie R Andrews 20-9, K John A Gower E Shepperd 16-11 M Nash J Forrest M Munro 20-9

We had The Gate at the club on their annual visit. They retained the Trophy and they had a great time playing two games and the after game party was as usual hectic

EI Emperors played at Calpe against JC Collaborators in the Winter league and they defeat on shots. 89 shots to 91 which meant a final score of 5-7 on the day. The highest winning triple was Anne Young, Paul Hayward and Bob Donnelly.

San Miguels other two teams on a Monday played one another at home in the afternoon where San Miguel Marlins played San Miguel Stingrays. There were some close games but the Stingrays came out on top winning 10-2. The shots were 70 to the Marlins and 89 to the Stingrays. Highest winning triple was Colin Fowler, Graham Barwell and Dave Rogers who won 28 shots to 10.

Wednesday saw the Winter League game against Greenlands

LA MARINA BC Dave Hadaway Life can be full of coincidences or come in 3's, on Sunday 3 of us travelled to Calpe to play in a tournament and was very pleasantly surprised to find ourselves playing against a touring side from Switzerland. The country only has 6 clubs mainly curlers who have taken to bowls when there is no ice, but they were all very enthusiastic and it proved a great day.

On Wednesday we played at home against a combined tourist team from Maryport in Cumbria and Clacton on Sea, Essex which proved to be a really fun day for everyone. Thank you all for making the effort to travel and making our days more interesting.

Thirdly just to add to the coincidences we had a Swiss lady come down to our club for a few lessons from which we hope

EL RANCHO BOWLS CLUB Country Bowls Club commenced its winter league campaign with a team in each of 3 divisions in both Monday and Friday LLB Leagues, also for the first time entering the Wednesday Winter League.

Our Winter League Cabelleros were first to play on Wednesday 4th October with a home win 6 points to 4 against Emerald Isle and then travelled up to the newly forms Javea/Calpe on 11th and collected a hard earnt 4 points, a solid start to the season.

On Friday 13th October the Panthers travelled to play Greenland Cedars and found the green to their liking, only losing on 1 ring, 8 points in the bag 96 shots to 65. A special mention to Brian Jiggins, Sue Hudson and President Derek Jiggins getting top rink!

On Monday 16th our Flamingos travelled to San Miguel for their match in the Enterprise Division and found it hard going on the newish carpet and longer green. 2 rinks battled away and could have got some points, but it was not to be. But a superb performance by

Cavaliers played Greenlands Oaks and slipped to a 2-10 Aggregate of 74-91 defeat, S Johnson G Odell S Elvin 21-14

Outlaws travelled to Monte Mar Matadors, and they got beaten 2-10 Aggregate 64-92, M Nash J Ball M Munro 18-17

SAPS is on Sat afternoons. Great value 5 Euros only 2 hours bowling with Coaching Shoes Bowls if needed and bar.

ELWYN MORRIS

Gladiators where San Miguel won on all four rinks. 84 shots to 67. Some great bowling was seen and the highest scoring rink was San Miguels rink of Anita Brown, Dori Svanbergsson, Derek Farmer and Mike Douglas winning 23 shots to 13.

Friday 20th October San Miguel Comanches were at home to Country Bowls Cubs where the game ended in draw 66. 90 to 87 shots. Highest winning triple was Jenny Harvey, Ian Hope and Pat Staden winning 23-15. San Miguel Cherokees were away to Vistabella Conquistadors and they had a great 10-2 win over them 103 shots to 63. Highest winning triple was Dave Sceal, Linda Douglas and Alan Harris 21 shots to-7. she will get the bowling bug.

This week's league game was Monday afternoon at Vistabella with the following result, Trevor Hancock, Dave McGaw and John Rae, 16-14, Les Joynes, Jean & Don Fowkes 12-17, Alan Birch, Dave Joynes, Len Daniels 21-12, Trevor Stemp, Shirley Hadaway, Garth Slater 10-23, Anne Stone, Norman Ship, Margaret Finlayson 22-23, giving a overall shot total of 81-89 in Vistabella's favour and overall points 4-8 to Vistabella. But oh as last week that 1 shot made such a difference to the score. Remember every shot counts.

Friday's game is in the afternoon and unfortunately too late for this report and will be saved for next week.

Quiz night at the Paulo's restaurant at the Sports Centre tonight, for anybody at a loose end for 7.00pm, where those ribs will be on offer again.

Jayne and Kevin Storey and new cap Roger Grimshaw made sure we collected 2 points.

In the Discovery Division Seahawks entertained El Rancho Raiders and soon took advantage of the home surface winning on all but 1 rink, 10 points to 2, 97shots to 64. A great start to the season sitting on the top of the league. Congratulations to the top rink of Micheal Jordon, Del Gunning and Peter Robins winning 27 shots to 10.

In the Voyager Division our new team the Ravens made a great start against the Greenland Cedars at home, winning on 3 rinks, points 8 to 4, 92 shots to 64.

On Friday 20th October Geckos entertained last years winners of the A Division Quesada Swallows and came out on top with a fine win 8 points to 4, 96 shots to 83.

Top rink goes to Barry Evans, Dennis Wade and Jeff Hiers 22 shots to 12.

PAGE 22

www.theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

THADER DISMAL RUN AND GOAL DROUGHT CONTINUES Sery put in a teasing cross on 47 mins, which just needed a touch from a Thader team mate to score that elusive goal. The task became harder on 55 mins, when Pucho beat the offside trap to place the ball just inside the near post.

Then on the hour mark, Christian Navarro headed home from a corner to make it 0-3. Having previously missed a sitter, Galvez made amends when he had the simple task of a tap in for goal number 4 on 70 mins.

CD Thader ............0 Crevillente Dep .....5

A

fter 6 games in the newly formed Community League, Thader have failed to score and earned just a solitary point. Despite experimenting with different permutations, the men from Rojales are nowhere near finding the correct formula.

Against high flying Crevillente, they were never really at the races, and had it not been for goal keeper Chema, the scoreline could quite easily have been double figures for the visitors.

Following a blank weekend of football, hopes were high that now was the time for the tide to turn, but alas it was proved to be a false dawn.

When you consider that the visiting keeper didn't have a noteworthy save to make all match, then is it any wonder that the fans have little to cheer about

Strong appeals for a penalty for hand ball were not upheld by ref Calero, as Thader refused to admit defeat. at the moment.

Chema was called into action as early as the 6th min, when faced with 1 on 1 with Crevillente's no 9 Guille, he pulled off the first of numerous important saves.

From a corner on 21 mins, Navarro headed inches wide of the far post, as the visitors were completely dominating the match. Midway through the first half, Thader at last earned a corner, which unfortunately came to nothing.

Straight up the other end, Hamza superbly executed Crevellente's opening goal, when his half volleyed drive beat Chema all ends up. Pascual tried

his luck from distance, but Thader's central defender saw his effort take a deflection before harmlessly bouncing for a throw in.

Tabala looked to have doubled his sides advantage, but his shot from the edge of the box rattled the bar, then from the rebound, Thader's captain Juan cleared off the line. Javi thought he'd restored parity on 35 mins, but his joy was short lived when ref Calero disallowed the effort for an earlier infringement.

Both Hamza and Guille had opportunities to add to the goals tally, but once again Chema stood firm in the hosts goal.

La Marina Golf Society at El Plantio 19.10.23 – This week the members of the La Marina Golf Society met at the El Plantio Golf Course where they played for the Toldos4Sun trophy.

The course was in pretty good condition. with the greens as challenging as ever.

The expected rain held off so a good day around.

The winners for today’s game was our Vice Captain Bill Allen with an impressive 40 points, closely behind in second place was Colin Taylor with 39pts and in third place was Jeff Wiszniewski with 36 pts. Nearest the pin winners were as follows, hole 7 Bill Allen, hole 9 Graham Leigh, hole 14 Sarah McCabe and hole 18 Colin Taylor. The two’s pot was shared by Jeff Wiszniewski and Graham Leigh. Well done to all of today’s winners.

QUIZ FROM PAGE 14: 1. USA (Hawaii), 2. Answer a.

Seventh Avenue, 3. 1936, 4.

Cranberry, 5. Roxette, 6. Anheuser Busch and Heineken, 7. Puma, 8.

Atlanta, 9. Greenland, 10. Answer c.

Phil Collins (Against All Odds, One More Night, Sussudio, Separate Lives, Invisible Touch (with Genesis), Groovy Kind Of Love, Two Hearts, Another Day In Paradise), 11.

Edinburgh (Edinburgh Skating Club), 12. Three answers. In order: Alaska, Wyoming and Montana, 13. Answer a. North Korea, 14. Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown), 15. Answer b. unicorn, 16. Rod Laver, 17. US presidential state car, 18. Bellini, 19.

Four answers. a. Air Force One, b.

Hannibal, c. The Fifth Element, d.

Leon: The Professional, 20. Madrid

SUDUKO SOLUTION

When Javi appeared to be brought down on the edge of the penalty area on 80 mins, play was allowed to continue, culminating in a fine individual run

by Guille, resulting in him planting the ball past an over worked Chema.

Whilst receiving treatment, the injured Javi was cautioned, then sent off, for comments made to the ref. In stoppage time, only the brilliance of Chema prevented Guille scoring a brace.

An away trip to Alicante next awaits Thader, when they will take on Hercules CF 'B' on 28 or 29 October.

Visit Thader facebook page for further information.

office@theleader.info

ALGORFA IMPRESS AGAINST QUESADA Algorfa Top End Bar chalked up an impressive 8-2 win against The Club Quesada B in the Costa Blanca Independent Pool League division one 2023-24 winter season.

Phil Keen, Charles Marsden, Karl Murray, Mark Knott, and Steve Gunsten returned wins for Algorfa, with Ole Jan Mittun and Chris Lusty winning for Quesada.

League leaders Happy Days Too A defeated The Pines B 6-4; The Cafe Almoradi suffered a 6-4 home loss against visitors The La Hacienda.

Second place The Club Quesada A defeated The Laguna Tavern A 6-4; The Olde 9th Shakers returned a 6-4 away win at The Laguna Tavern B. Catral Sheerin's defeated The Olde 9th Young Boys away 6-4, with Andy Fowkes, Dave Evans, Paul Johnson, chalking up wins for Catral.

Third place The Pines A defeated Happy Days Too B 6-4, with Steve Greene, Anthony Dunn, Ray McGrane, and Paul Gallaghar, winning for Pines.

TORREVIEJA DARTS LADIES ORGANISATION 17th Oct. Founders Format Week 3 Friendly Chicas 3-6 Tipsy Tigers Primadonnas 2-7 Gap Girlz Dolly Mixtures P-P CK1 Ladybirds Whacky Allsorts 2 - 7 Friendly Temps LEAGUE TABLE Gap Girlz Ladybirds Tipsy Tigers Friendly's Temps Friendly's Chicas Macklin's Dolly Mixtures Primadonnas Whacky Allsorts

P 3 2 3 3 3 2 3 3

Geoff was a great supporter of the league

Pts 21 15 15 14 12 9 9 4

Hot Darts Week 3 - Tuesday 17th October Ellie Attwood (FT) 168, Eileen Askew (TT) 140 X2, Mitch Halliday (PD) 135, 132, Ali Webster (FC) 135, Linda Curdy (Fc) 134, Monique Edelenbos (FT) 133, 121, Pat Schofield (TT) 133, Marylin Mcdowell (TT) 126, 115 Bliss Wright (GG) 125, 100 X3, Yvonne Rouffignac (GG) 121, 100 X2 Jane Barnes (WA) 121, Shirley Stephenson (WA) 117, Di Dane (PD) 116, Jackie Sullivan (GG) 114, Carol Hurley (PD) 105, Kath Blundell (WA) 102, Jane Kelly (FC) 100, Claire Lumb (GG) 100,

OBITUARY FOR GEOFF LLOYD It is with sad regret, that we have to announce the death of Geoff Lloyd, who passed away on Saturday 14th October.

Geoff and his late wife, Diane, took a great interest in our Ladies League, which was inaugurated in 2003.

Then, in 2004, Geoff attended our very first Presentation Evening, along with his son, Daughter and family. At this event, Geoff presented the Diana Lloyd Memorial shield, and, over the years he had attended many of our Presentation Evenings. He always enjoyed his time with the teams in our League, and having a good head for numbers, he often marked our games, for which we were always grateful.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

www.theleader.info

Thirty tons and ton +'s from the Toppers were a bridge too far for Freakies this week, the barrage coming from throughout, Dave Askew meriting POTM with 3x100,105,3x140.

Andy Rutter adding 6 tons, John Rodford a further 5.

Phil de Lacy 100,135 narrowly lost out to POTM Steve Hawkins 1-2, Mario Ruiz gaining Freakies 2nd leg with a 0-2 defeat of Pete Spence.

LEAGUE RESULTS 19 OCTOBER DIVISION 1 Domino's Doms Hub Hyenas Tipsy Toad Toppers El Capitan Leeson St Trotters

8-4 10-2 10-2 11-1 5-7

Mind The Gap CK1 Lads Freakie Taverners Milo's C.C.'s Bees

DIVISION 2 Fallen Angels Fire Station Danny's Bar CK1 Ladybirds Tasty Taverners

9-3 8-4 7-5 11-1 4-8

Pint Depot Queens Illy's Oldies Tipsy Toad Tiaras Hub Hellraisers Domino's Despdos

from POTM, Ricky Perez, plus 33 scores of 80+.

Gap a more modest 18 tons or more, plus 35 scores of 80+.

Highest out a tasty 138 from Gordon Cowan, Sam Salt's singles victory over Suso Madrid meriting a POTM. Best legs a 15 darter from Perez inc. an 88 out and a 16 darter from Mark Farmer, in his defeat of Carlos Escansiano.

Ironically Gap scored 8 tons or more plus 2x90+ in the triples, but found themselves 2-1 down. Phew !!!

HUB HYENAS V C.K. 1 LADS

LEAGUE TABLES 19 OCTOBER DIVISION 1 Hub Hyenas Domino's Domignomes Tipsy Toad Toppers CC's Bees Mind The Gap El Capitan Lesson Street Trotters CK1 Lads Freakie Taverners Milo's

P 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Pts 6 6 5 5 4 4 0 0 0 0

legs 30 28 28 21 27 23 9 8 5 2

DIVISION 2 Fallen Angels Fire Station Danny's Bar CK1 Ladybirds Domino's Desperados Illy's Oldies Tasty Taverners Tipsy Toad Tiaras Pint Depot Queens Hub Hellraisers

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

6 6 6 5 3 2 2 0 0 0

26 25 25 25 19 20 18 11 6 4

POTM, Les and Mark Lads managed just one winning leg in each half via a Les Adams 60 out in the opener,Kevin Wood overcoming Dave Bracken 1-2 in the 7th, with a 62 out.

Dave Rowlinson's fine ton tally of 2x100,121,2x140, just surpassed by POTM Mark Ellis 3x100, 121,123, 140,180.

A below par Steve Dalton still managed a 97 out in the pairs with Steve Mullen. The effervescent Terry David still smiling after his 12th leg defeat to Andre Wing. Lads POTM - Adams.

LEESON ST. TROTTERS V C.C. BEES Richie McSweeney's effort this week, pivotal to C.C's narrow victory over the useful Trotters.

3x100,110,2x140, not forgetting his 141 out over Kain Hickman, the difference between the teams, deservedly earning POTM. Barry Shingler 115,131, D2 and Billy Dolling 2x140, were unlucky to face McSweeney and Ivan Jones in the 2nd pairs, the score at halfway 3-3.

Paul Christopher got Bees to 6 and a point, Simon Bantleman finding the T20 nine times in a 3 leg win over Alex Nikolov.

Dolling found D4 in the 12th for Trotters 5th leg.

Yvonne Rouffignac's 8x80+, 133 earning her a POTM.

DIVISION 2 FALLEN ANGELS V PINT DEPOT QUEENS Three figure scores from Queens Ronnie Bowden 100 and POTM - Alison Wands 126, the latter finding 2 winning doubles, the 3rd via Lorraine Cox in her singles.

Graham White helped himself to 3 outs, James Mackay top scored with 121,132, White ensuring the draw and point on D2. Mike Tierney nailing D12 for the match and applause. Joe Cuyt - POTM.

TIPSY TOAD TOPPERS V FREAKIE TAVERNERS FIRE STATION V ILLIES OLDIES Station made it 3 on the trot, both new sides gradually finding their feet in the league. Station were 4-2 up at the break, Rob Sturvivant 100,137,2x80+ and Tim Goodacre 116,3x80+, prolific in scoring.

Brian Abbey replying with 100 and both outs.

Des Field made it 4-3 for POTM, Sturvivant 138,122 and D14 ensuring a home draw, Robbie Monks sinking a D18 for both points. Sturvivant - Station's POTM.

180's: Ricardo Perez - Domino's Domignomes, Mark Ellis – Hub Hyenas HIGH FINISH: Richie Mcsweeney 141 C.C.'s Bees, Gordon Cowan 138 Mind The Gap, Edmundas Klimonis 116, 111 El Capitan

DIVISION 1 Dominos Domignomes v Mind the Gap Nomes walked home with bragging rights in this one, not so sure there will be a repeat score in the 2nd half of matches.

It was a real cracker, the hosts leading 4-2 at the break, taking both points via Nigel Justice in the 11th leg. Nomes scored 34 tons or more including a maxi

EL CAPITAN V MILOS Milos recorded their only leg in the concluding 12th from Angel Gallardo in his defeat of an in form Liam Lumb 1-2, earning the Milo a POTM. Samuel James enjoying a scoring spree to include 3x100, 2x95.

Ed Klimonis obviously had time to practise this week with 2x100, 4x80+ and two 3 figure outs of 116 and 111 in the pairs with his much taller son Arold.

Caps POTM however was Chris Logan, 3 outs, 3x100,140, Ben Kernahan not far behind with 2x100,123, 2x140.

Dave and Steve

C.K. 1 BIRDS V HUB HELLRAISERS A great match performance from Raiser Lesley Dolling taking out 62 for her teams only winning leg earned her a POTM award.

PAGE 23

Her match scores of 100,125,134,135, outstanding, skipper Cheryl McGlynn supporting with 81,98,112,115.

It was however all Birds, their 6-0 victory march at the break, temporarily halted by Dolling, Sandra Crabbe finding D19 for the points.

Angie Mullen top scored with a 140, Sharon O'Rourke 134, but Dons Ralph was Birds POTM with 4 of her teams 11 outs.

TASTY TAVERNERS V DOMINOS DESPERADOS Despos were 0-4 up before Tasties Sharon Williams banged in a 66 out, with partner Sonya Lock.

Despos Paul Chick hitting a ton and 2 game shots.

Dave Oates and Eunice Letts providing the other 2.

Michael Langan nailed D9 for 1-5.

Williams added a 2nd for the hosts, Ray Hayes gaining the 6th for at least a draw. Despos had to wait until the 11th to win the match courtesy of Oates, POTM - Lock - Chick.

DANNYS BAR V TIPSY TOAD TIARAS

POTM, Lisa and Jane Tiaras narrowly missed playing at all last night, one car having taken a wrong turn in the wilderness, tracking a canal road almost back to las Ramblas before they could do a 180.

Favouring a score of 83 (8) the ladies found themselves 3 all at sarnie time Lisa Ivill (83, 95 D8), de Lacy (92, D1) and ahead after the first singles Wendy Hayward (83 D2; 83 D14).

Captain Bob (81, 96 11-D3) and Steve Lumb (83, 135, 20-D20) nabbed the last two singles to make it a home win.

POTM Jane Wills (90, 89, D11-D3), Lisa Ivill (93, 97, D8, D17). Bob and Simone adjudicated the fixtures for the KO cup which was drawn by Jane Wills and Marylin McDowell.

CUP DRAW ROUND ONE 26TH OCTOBER

PAGE 24

www.theleader.info

Monday 23rd - Sunday 29th October 2023

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info