Costa Blanca South 22 - 28 December 2022 Issue 1955

XMAS FUNDRAISER

A LOVING father, Michael Hook, aged 52, is embarking on an epic car journey in order to raise funds for Neuroblastoma Research in memory of his daughter, Isla Caton.

Michael is driving 4,500 miles from Hornchurch to Marrakesh and will begin his challenge today, Thursday December 22, driving through France, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Spain and finally Marrakesh.

He will be making a pitstop on Christmas Day at La Zenia beach and would love his local supporters to join him.

The Isla Caton Fund was created in memory of his beautiful, brave daughter. Isla loved to sing and dance and in 2017 at just two years old was sadly diagnosed with high­risk neuroblastoma.

Isla’s treatment began in the UK at Great Ormond Street Hospital, and while receiving intense chemotherapy, Isla developed a brain tumour, which she fought and doctors later successfully removed.

Whilst undergoing CNS treatment Isla heartbreakingly relapsed with spots on her bones and in 2018, her family were told her disease had progressed and she had just three months to live. The family urgently fundraised and relocated to Barcelona for experimental treatment. Isla continued to battle cancer un­

dergoing a trial of ICE chemotherapy along with antibody treatment.

In March 2019, scans showed that Isla was cancerfree, but shortly after the disease returned and, in December 2021, her parents Nicola and Michael were told there was no further treatment for her and on January 25, 2022,

aged just seven years old, Isla passed away after a brave fiveyear fight against cancer.

For more information on the illness and the charity please go to: www.solvingkidscancer.org.uk and to donate to this worthy cause go to https://www.solvingkid scancer.org.uk/appeal/islaca tonfund

ISLA CATON: Her father is raising funds for children’s cancer research.

Image: Isla Catton Fund

Santa Claus has come to town

THOUSANDS lined the streets in the centre of Elche as Santa Claus arrived in the city on Saturday December 17.

He was escorted by an entourage of hundreds that included elves, Disney characters, stilt walkers, acrobats and dancers in a parade that started in Avenida de Novelda and continued along Calle Jorge Juan and Calle Blasco Ibañez. On reaching the Altamira Palace, Santa Claus descended from his sleigh where he greeted and spoke to the waiting children. Here he was welcomed by city mayor Carlos Gonzalez who thanked him for accepting the city’s invitation and arriving early so that Elche’s child would be able to visit him at the Christmas Market in Paseo de la Estacion.

HUNDREDS of people celebrated Christmas with a carol concert in Torrevieja’s Plaza de la Constitucion, as International and Spanish residents came together to celebrate the 20th edition of Carols in the Square.

On Wednesday, December 14, hundreds of Torrevieja residents of different nationalities gathered at the English Carol Concert in the Square which was or­

Accompanied by Fiestas councillor, Mariola Galiana, the mayor then handed over a magic key, which allowed him to enter the city’s houses and leave presents on Christmas Eve, a logical precaution in a Spanish city where few apartments have a convenient chimney.

Singing loud

ganised by the Department of International Residents of the Torrevieja City Council and has been a yearly event since 2002.

The Royal British Legion Band, directed by David Last, which is made up mainly of retired British musicians residing in Torrevieja, joined forces with the

Crescendo Choir and special guest singer Shani Ormiston.

Typical Christmas songs interpreted in both English and Spanish were the repertoire of the concert, in which the new Christmas song by Shani Ormiston, ‘More than luck’, could also be heard.

MAGIC KEY: Making it easy to leave presents for the children.

Photo credit: Elche city hall

NIBS EXTRA

CREVILLENT’S Local Police pulled over a top­of­therange Dutch­plated car during a routine check and found that the vehicle had been registered in Holland using false documents. The car’s three occupants now face charges of forgery and theft after further investigation revealed it had been stolen in Belgium.

More spaces

CARRUS OESTE has received 150 of the 1,000 parking spaces that Elche City Hall promised before next May’s municipal elections. The extra spaces in Calle Benijofar, Calle Formentera del Segura and Calle Catral were created by marking them out at an angle instead of parallel to the kerb.

Swipe it

ROJALES is the first Vega Baja municipality with a population of more than 10,000 that will provide a fifth recycling container, accessible only with a swipe card, for food leftovers and other organic waste. The first 120 containers for 16,000 residents are due to be installed in January.

Water war

TWO THOUSAND agricultural growers, business owners and politicians demonstrated in Murcia on December 16, calling for the central government to reverse plans to reduce water transfers sent to Alicante, Murcia and Almeria via the Tajo­Segura pipeline. All reject Madrid’s solution of using expensive desalinated water for crop irrigation.

Dig that

MORE than 60,000 cubic metres of subsoil must be extracted to excavate an underground car park for more than 600 vehicles below Torrevieja port’s future leisure area. Stabilising the site, reclaimed from the sea 70 years ago, will require 324 pilings, according to sources close to the project.

The SAMM annual Christmas Lunch at Toscana in Roldan on Saturday December 10 was a joyous occasion, but tinged with sadness.

The joy because SAMM was pleased to welcome numerous new members to the SAMM community, including four Russians who had joined via the Balaton Group.

The sadness because they are losing their Commodore Dawn Morgan after only nine months because she is going sailing to the Arctic Ocean with a companion.

SAMM, a Spanish sports and cultural Association registered with the Comunidad

Highs and lows

Friends and neighbours Caught out

sailing activities.

of Murcia and town hall of Los Alcazares, has social groups, such as cycling,

Padron pileup

TORREVIEJA will introduce a new system for registering on the municipal Padron after January 6 once the Christmas holidays are over.

Mayor Eduardo Dolon announced on December 16 that it would soon be possible to complete most of the procedure online, while the section of the process that needed to be carried out in person would become more rapid.

Dolon has blamed the deficiencies in the current system on his predecessors at the town hall who in turn have accused the present local gov­

ernment for the delays.

Meanwhile, as well as the Gestorias or Asesorias that many residents pay to carry out their paperwork, others are turning to the Locutorios where it is possible to simply obtain a Padron appointment for around €4.

Municipal sources also pointed out that the town hall’s online Census and Statistics area has streamlined some procedures since February 2021, and obtaining an updated Padron is practically automatic for anybody with an electronic signature.

petanque, ten­pin bowling and the recently formed Golf group, to complement their

SAMM have members who are also qualified divers or specialists in outboard motors etc, but are always looking for more. If you are a first aider, a paramedic, have experience of running social activities or would like to talk at one of the monthly meetings on say, sailing in the Greek Islands, Turkey or elsewhere, please get in touch with SAMM at www.sailing marmenor.com.

Sacred choir

MURCIA region president Fernando Lopez Miras declared recently that the Murcia­Madrid AVE high speed train should not stop in Orihuela and Elche.

“If we have a stop every 50 kilometres, then that’s not high speed,” he said.

Lopez Miras’ Valencian Community counterpart Ximo Puig immediately described the suggestion as inappropriate and called for “respect” for the region’s southern area.

the Costa Blanca community

ANDANTE INTERNATIONAL CHOIR, the only choir

choral works

classical pieces, has begun rehearsing again. Rehearsals take place in Los Montesinos at Calle San Antonio, 4 on Thursday nights from 7.15pm to 9.00pm beginning on January 12, 2023. Pieces that the choir are currently learning include Motet, Ave Verum corpus by Mozart, Benedicat Vobis by Handel, O Sanctissima, a traditional Sicilian hymn, Anima Christi by Marco Frisina and Missa de Angelis, arranged by Christopher Moore.

The musical director Manuel Jesus Perez Garcia, is also the musical director and pianist for Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Pilar (Our Lady of Pilar Church) in Los Montesinos. All are welcome to join the choir, however tenors and basses are in demand. For more information contact Andante International Choir member Sue Lewey at suelewey@gmail.com. Also see the Facebook page, Andante International Choir (Spain). Public performances will start in 2023, including at the Our Lady of Pilar Church.

City Medal award

ON Friday, December 16, Alicante City Council awarded the City Medal to the people of Alicante for their “exemplary be haviour” during the Covidpandemic.

The council also offered awards to the Local Police on its 175th anniversary, to Doctor Francisco Javier Balmis for his work to combat smallpox and to the Jorge Juan Secondary School (IES) for being one of the oldest centres in Spain which has been providing public education for 177 years.

The mayor of Alicante, Luis Barcala, stressed that “there has been many unwelcome obstacles that this corporation has had to face, such as the pandemic.

“For what we have all had to suffer and what the city of Ali­

cante has suffered, we give the Medal of the City to the people of Alicante which is a historic milestone.”

Speaking to the Spanish media in Albuixech (Valencia) on Saturday December 17, Puig pointed out that the Murcia AVE involved not only Murcia but also the Valencian Community and at least 600,00 people were affected by the Elche and Orihuela stops.

The Vega Baja had more than 500,000 inhabitants while Elche had 200,000, Puig added.

“We’re talking about a very important population, the same as the Murcia region’s,” he said.

“We have nothing to say against Murcia and never have, but we believe that the Valencian Community, the south, the Vega Baja and Elche deserve respect.”

EWN Xmas wishes

AFTER a busy year, the Euro Weekly News would love to wish a very merry Christmas and happy New Year to all our readers and clients. We also want to say a huge thank you to everyone for their loyalty, which keeps us the most popular people’s paper throughout Spain year after year.

Now is a time to remember how lucky we are to be part of this caring community of English­speaking residents in Spain.

Not everyone will be spending this Christmas surrounded by friends and family however. If you are alone this Christmas we are sending our love.

And for those of us lucky enough to be with our loved ones over the festive period, let us all remember our neighbours and the vulnerable in our community.

With much love at Christmas, The EWN family x

JOYOUS OCCASION: Christmas lunch at Toscana.

Image: SAMMS

in

devoted to sacred

and

Generous Rotary Club

ORIHUELA’S Department of Youth toy collection campaign received a massive boost, on Thursday December 15, with an enormous donation from Orihuela’s Rotary Club of more than 500 toys.

The councillor for Youth, Mar Ezcurra, confirmed “I would like to thank the Rotary Club and its president for their generosity, which

will allow us to reach many more homes and give out much more hope this Christmas.”

The Orihuela Rotarians said that they just want to try to make “our surroundings a better place.”

Toy collection containers can be found in the Orihuela Costa Town Hall, Casa de la Juventud, Circo Atanasio Die

Theatre, in the María Moliner Municipal Library and in La Lonja. The councillor added “The aim is that little ones will leave there their used toys so that we can distribute them to other families. We would appreciate any new toys or any used toys that are in good condition.”

The campaign will run until Monday January 2.

Consumer incentive

THE town council of Aspe has launched a voucher campaign, Bono-consumo, aimed at consumers to encourage local shopping during the coming Christmas season.

The Department of Commerce reported that Aspe consumers can benefit from the vouchers with a discount of €10 for every €20 of purchase in shops, hotels, services and professional businesses in general during December.

The councillor for Commerce, Toni Garcia, has encouraged residents to purchase vouchers which can be redeemed until Saturday December, 31.

Vouchers can be purchased through The BUYBONO mobile phone app which is available through Play Store, select the ‘ASPE’ option.

Everyone registered with the app, can purchase up to three vouchers per registration.

Image: Shutterstock.com/ Billion Photos

Sin alcohol

IN a bid to promote healthy habits amongst young people, Alicante City Council has launched their latest campaign entitled ‘Celebrations Without’ (Fiestas Sin).

The campaign will be prominent throughout the Christmas period through the use of digital media, advertising on bus routes 1, 2 and 3, the TRAM, social networks and schools.

On Thursday, December 15, the councillor for Education, Julia Llopis, said that “the prevention of alcohol consumption among young people is a priority for the city council, and, for this reason, we have been working for some time on the Addiction Prevention Plan in the school environment.

“One of the objectives is to inform, prevent and encourage healthy habits and launch awareness campaigns that help to raise awareness and sensitise.

“With this initiative, the council asks you to enjoy the celebrations in a healthier and more conscious way.”

Culture of peace Green Flag award

RESIDENTS of Orihuela have now been rewarded with the Green Flag which recognises the commendable way that glass has been recycled throughout the summer season.

of Ecovidrio’s Green Flag campaign, in which 140 municipalities from all over Spain have taken part.

Carmen Catala, councillor for Climate Emergency

and Ecological Transition, pointed out that recycling glass also avoids the extraction of raw materials from nature that are necessary for the manufacture of this material.

MORE than 200 people gathered on Friday, December 16, at Elche’s Congress Centre to celebrate the sixth Human Rights Gala, a commemoration originally started on December 10, 1948 in Paris.

The meeting, which was attended by the councillor for Development Cooperation, Mariola Galiana, recalled the bombing of Gernika in 1937 and demanded the right to peace and reconciliation. The event was also attended by members of the Municipal Corporation.

The councillor confirmed: “Today, 74 years later, the horrible violations of the principles enshrined in the Declaration continue to play out in full view of all humanity. We call on everyone to continue working together to build a culture of peace as a process that must be maintained in order to achieve a society where our rights are defended and consolidated.”

She added: “This year’s gala focuses on peace as a result of the war in Ukraine and other conflicts in different parts of the world.”

The mayor, Carolina Gracia, has confirmed that “glass collection has been promoted for many years in Orihuela and the need to recycle glass is particularly pushed throughout the summer season.

“It is always an honour to receive awards, especially if it is the Green Flag,” said the mayor, who acknowledged the efforts of municipal services and the hospitality sector in the area. “This award motivates us to continue separating waste, to make cities more sustainable and to continue in the fight against climate change.”

This is the third edition

Fur and feather

CARP-R-US fished their annual Fur and Feather match at the El Bosquet complex on Thursday December 15. This year members were also fishing for the Ann Fowles Memorial Cup for the first time.

The previous night had seen heavy, cold rain in the area and the morning was much cooler than in recent days, so a tough days fishing was expected. Thankfully every one of the 15 anglers taking part caught fish, even if weights were generally on the low side.

The winner from peg 39 was Steve Higgins who fished a superb match ( his words ) to finish with 19.62kg caught on pole with maggots.

After the match a number of the members retired to Café Uno in Catral where they were served with an excellent steak and chips meal.

Further information about the club can be found on its website www.carp­r­us.weebly.com or on the Facebook page Carp­R­Us Fishing Costa Blanca.

HUMAN RIGHTS: This year is focusing on peace.

Image: Elche City Council

Christmas drop in

AS Christmas is the time for giving, the Specsavers Ópticas stores on the Costa Blanca South are supporting the Red Cross by collecting cleaning products for the home and toiletries for families in their local areas.

They are asking customers and local residents to drop in shampoo, shower gel, soap, shaving products, feminine hygiene products and all types of cleaning products. They will be collecting these in the Guardamar, Torrevieja and La Zenia branches of Specsavers Ópticas until Saturday January 7.

Lisa James, store director of Specsavers Ópticas in Guardamar explained, “This Christmas we’ve chosen to support the Red Cross, as our team have seen first­hand the incredible work that the Red Cross does locally. Their dedicated team helps in any way possible, but rely on donations, so we wanted to support them by becoming a drop off point for items that

TOILETRIES: In high demand.

they are really lacking. They’ve told us that toiletries and cleaning products are in very high demand and rarely donated, so please pick up a few extra things when you’re shopping and drop them in to the store throughout the holiday season.”

Red Cross Guardamar is currently supporting 168 families, a number that has significantly increased since the Covid pandemic began.

As well as providing food and items such as personal care and cleaning products, they support their families

however they need to. This includes visiting isolated and lonely people in their homes, helping to coordinate social services support for their users to make sure they are getting what they are entitled to, providing school materials for children, paying bills and medication costs for vulnerable families, and much more.

Find your nearest store by visiting www.specsavers.es or visit www.cruzroja.es to find out more about the charity.

Future centre

ELCHE City Council is pushing for an agreement to secure a piece of land, of nearly 5,000 square metres, that is hoped will become the space for the future Congress Centre.

The mayor of Elche, Carlos Gonzalez, explained that he is awaiting the transfer from the Provincial Council so that he can finalise the process of expropriation of the land in the coming weeks.

“The different parties in­

volved, have expressed their agreement with the valuation and the offer that has been made,” said the mayor.

The president of the Provincial Council, Carlos Mazon, who visited Elche on Thursday, De­

cember 15, assured that “the funds have been approved, they have been allocated and are ready to be released as soon as the corresponding agreements with the owners have been accredited.”

Improving accessibility

MORE than €48,000 has been spent in Aspe on improving the accessibility of pavements on Calle Doctor Fleming, neighbouring streets and Calle Camino Viejo de Elche.

Throughout the month of December, the Aspe Services and Maintenance Department, together with the Town Planning department, has been carrying out a series of improvements to sections of pavements in poor condition, improving accessibility and safety for pedestrians.

According to Ivan Escobar, councillor for Services, “various improvements have been made in different streets in the municipality that were in poor condition, due to the misuse of drivers who parked on the pavements in these areas, causing deterioration.

“Likewise, on Calle Camino Viejo de Elche, new pavements will be laid in the sections that did not previously have any, thereby improving accessibility and safety for residents,” the councillor confirmed.

Game of Alicante

ALICANTE City Council has come up with an entertaining and inventive way to promote the most emblematic places around the city.

The Alicante Game, a board game, that reproduces streets, shops, companies, entities and well ­ known places in the city of Alicante.

The mechanics and operation of the game may be a mix between the well ­ known Monopoly and Game of the Goose, but it is 100 per cent personalised for Alicante.

El Juego de Alicante, the perfect Christmas gift, is now available and can be purchased for the price of €27 in main toy shops, bookshops and department stores in the city, which have joined in this cultural and recreational initiative to recognise the Alicante brand.

The game is a top ­ of ­

the ­ line product with a quality comparable to that of the other games sold in bookshops and toy shops and is expected to be the star gift this coming Christmas.

Mobile policing

ORIHUELA Local Police were gifted with a new van on Thursday, December 12, which will be used by the Judicial Traffic Police to assist with traffic accidents and other incidents that occur throughout the municipality

The councillor for Public Safety, Antonio Sanchez, said that this purchase “reflects a commitment to the Local Police, we are not only providing them with human resources, but also with material resources."

The councillor also pointed out that the renewal of the vehicle was necessary because “the previous one had been used for a long time and had travelled many kilometres.

“The vehicle can also act as a mobile Local Police office during events such as the Medieval Fair, Easter Week or the Reconquista fiestas. This investment offers better security services throughout the municipality,” he added.

Game now on sale.

Image: Alicante City Council

Land available.

Image: Elche City Council

Busy week

Mingle bells

THE recent event ‘Mingle Bells’ at the Marina Bar Calle de las Rosas on Monday December 12 was once again a success raising money for the Cruz Roja Torrevieja. Starting with a delicious two-course Christmas lunch, followed by Quiz, spot prizes, rendition of the ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ with diners actively joining in and a visit from Santa himself it was destined to be a successful afternoon.

usual proficient style.

David’s recital of a personal poem touched the hearts of many and the excellent raffle was a welcome finale to a very enjoyable afternoon.

Thanks must go to Rita, Dave and the Marina Bar team and to all those generous people who donated prizes for the event.

A VERY busy week for the Orihuela Costa Royal British Legion (RBL) began on Wednesday, December 14, with Christmas lunch at YOLO’s restaurant in Cabo Roig attended by almost 50 members and guests.

The following evening, the December meeting included presentations to members, a carol service with Pilar Community Christian Church and ‘the big reveal’, the announcement of the total amount raised by the branch during the 2022 Poppy Appeal which once again proved to be a tremendous amount, €34,707.46. These funds will be used in Spain, to support veterans and their families who are in need.

A tremendous amount.

The RBL of Orihuela would like to thank the very generous people who have donated and all those many people who helped out in any way whatsoever.

If you would like to join the Royal British Legion please contact the branch secretary by email at: orihuelacosta.sec retary@rbl.community. It is not necessary to have a service background.

The RBL ask you to please remember, over this festive period, the many people who will be spending Christmas and New Year alone in your local neighbourhood. It takes nothing just to pop in and wish them well, maybe take them a small present. Just a small gesture, but it would mean so very much.

Fundraisers David and Lorraine Whitney were on hand to host the event leaving the Marina Bar team to cater for the meal in their

A HARD ­ WORKING team raised €2,020 for the PAPS, Los Infernos and Malcolm’s Cats animal shelters on Wednesday December 14.

Friends and supporters also provided 118 Christmas boxes of towels, bedding and other essentials for the three charities’ cats and dogs.

Elaine Simpson, June Harris, Elaine Gibson, Lesley and Paul Eburne and Tara Behan pulled out all

A total of €500 worth of food will be heading to the Cruz Roja , from the money raised at this event to help the charity bring joy to those in need this Christmas.

Christmas spirit

the stops to make this year’s Christmas Furries event at the Roda Civica centre in San Javier a great success.

“The weather was kind to us whilst we all enjoyed listening to the JOY choir,” Tara said.

“A big thank you goes to all the individual stallholders who came on the day in support of all our furry

friends with special thanks to Rubin and all the staff at Roda Civico,” she added. “Last but not least all the local businesses who kindly donated raffle prizes and friends for their donations, for which we are very grateful for all their kindness. We would like to wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas.”

Image: Royal British Legion

Are you sure you have escaped UK taxation? You may be settled in Spain but if you spend time in the UK each year or retain property there, you could still be treated as UK tax resident, making your worldwide income and gains liable to UK income and capital gains taxes.

The UK Statutory Residence Test (SRT)

The SRT determines your UK residence status for tax purposes. Assessing your position is not just about counting days spent in Britain; you need to work through the following three tests in order. (All references to ‘years’ mean a UK tax year and a ‘day’ means where you are present at midnight.)

1. Automatic overseas test –you are treated as not resident in the UK if you meet any of these conditions:

• UK resident in one or more of the previous three years, and present for fewer than 16 days in

The UK tax residence test and expatriates

UK if you meet any of these conditions:

• Present in the UK for 183 days or more that year.

• Only or ‘main’ home is in the UK – available for 91 consecutive days and actually used for at least 30 that year.

• Work – working in the UK at least 40 days in the year.

• Substantial visits – spending 90 days+ in the UK in either or both of the two previous years.

• Favoured country – spending more days in the UK than any other single country (only applies to ‘leavers’).

ceptional circumstances’ to be disregarded, but only where you have no choice and circumstances are unforeseen and beyond your control

Generally, you are treated as tax resident in one country or another, but it is possible to be dual-resident in both the UK and Spain under the respective domestic laws. While the double tax treaty offers protection from paying tax twice on the same income, you may still be liable for taxation in both countries, so take advice.

By Jon Pemberton, Partner, Blevins Franks

sent for fewer than 46 days in the current year.

• Work overseas full-time with no more than 30 days spent working in the UK and present for under 90 days that year.

• Work full-time in the UK for any period of 365 days with no significant break (subject to conditions).

3. Sufficient ties test – if your residence position is not determined under the first two tests, the next step is to consider your connections to the UK.

• Family – spouse/minor children resident in the UK.

This works on a sliding scale –the more ties you have with the UK, the less time you can spend onshore without becoming UK resident; the fewer ties, the longer you can spend there before UK residency applies. The number of days varies depending on whether you are an ‘arriver’ (non-UK resident in any of the previous three years) or a ‘leaver’ (UK resident in any of the previous three years).

This is just a summary of the rules, which are detailed and highly complex – take specialist advice to establish where you stand. Wherever your liabilities lie, a tax planning review could let you take advantage of legitimate arrangements to minimise taxation while meeting your obligations.

Tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to

The Partido Independencia Orihuela Costa (PIOC) is pleased to announce that they are holding ‘clinics’ to inform local residents about how to

register to vote in the municipal elections in 2023.

The venues and times are as follows (with more to be added).

Monday, January 2, at 2.30pm ­ The Sports Bar, Playa

Flamenca Centre.

Tuesday, January 3, at 11.00am ­ Emerald Isle, La Florida.

Tuesday, January 3, at 2.00pm ­ Di Stephanos, La Zenia.

Wednesday, January 4, at 2.00pm ­ Lime Bar, Villa Park.

Thursday, January 5, at 3.00pm ­ Rumours, Citris Centre.

Friday, December 6, at 11.00am ­ Leeson Street, Rioja Centre, Los Dolses.

Registering to vote isn’t as complicated or scary as you may think and the PIOC will be on hand to guide you through the process.

Their aim is simply to help everyone who has the right to vote register before the deadline which is January 15, 2023, for non­EU residents and January 31, 2023, for EU residents.

With more votes come more councillors which means more can be achieved for Orihuela Costa.

For more information email: community@pioc.es.

Ongoing revival

THE initial demolition stage of the old Red Cross building, next to the Viguetas market in Santa Pola, has been completed costing a total of €33,914.

The building was formerly occupied by the Red Cross and had been empty since the association moved. The town council will continue to restructure the building, dismantling the fibre cement covering the roof first.

The councillor for Infrastruc­

tures, Trini Ortiz, said: “It is delicate work as we have to protect the early 20th­century cistern under the building.”

The surface area to be demolished is 417m2 and occupies a volume of 1,375 cubic metres.

The small things

A TOTAL of 86 self-employed people and companies in Pinoso have benefited from the granting of subsidies to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), microSMEs, freelancers and professionals in order to minimise the economic impact of the energy crisis.

The beneficiary companies belong to different sectors, such as services and industry. It should be noted that 102 of the applications submitted have been rejected for failing

to comply with some of the eligibility requirements.

The final decision of the Evaluation Committee was announced at its meeting on November 29 and approved at the governing board meeting on Monday December 12.

The amounts awarded to each beneficiary business, depending on their requirements, range from €1,000 to €4,000. The total amount of these subsidies, provided by the Diputacion de Alicante, was €59,540.

YOU won’t have a choice if you don’t have a voice!

OLD BUILDING: Demolition has begun.

Image: Santa Pola City Council

Population boom

A FASCINATING report by the National Office for Statistics (INE), released on Thursday, December 15 has found that three in 10 Spanish cities grew in size during the last decade, while the national population grew by nearly 600,000, to reach a total of 47.4 million.

Population increases have been most notable in Madrid, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands. Other regions reporting population growth included Navarra with a staggering 40 per cent growth in some towns.

The INE explained some of

the reasons for population growth, saying a criteria of good connections, quality infrastructure and services are necessary.

Malaga is one of the cities that has grown the most in the last decade, thanks to interna­

SPANISH police uncovered a new drug smuggling route in a major bust on Saturday, December 10 with officers intercepting a whopping 56kg of MDMA during a raid on a boat bound for Argentina.

The huge shipment was confiscated in the port city of Cadiz following a major National Police operation in Andalucia which began in October. Police say the criminal gang organised their operations to coincide with World Cup games to shield their activities.

The drugs intercepted by police could have been used to create between 800,000 and

tional connections via its airport and port.

The statistics will be used by national authorities to monitor rural depopulation and the ageing population that is left behind when young people move to cities.

Huge haul

120,000 pills once they reached their destination.

Police hailed the operation as a success, particularly as it has helped to uncover a new drug running route that could have opened the doors to a new market with millions of potential consumers. Police arrested three people in Marbella and another two in Tarifa in light of the discovery.

The Balearic Islands are one of the areas in Spain registering the largest population increase in the last decade.

THE 2023 local elections are fast approaching, being held on Sunday, May 28. These elections hold tremendous importance and the result will impact every resident. That’s why it is essential to vote.

But, why should you vote?

1. It’s your right. No voting is giving up your voice. All foreigners resident in Spain who are citizens of the European Union have the right to vote in Municipal Elections and also non­EU foreigners resident in Spain whose respective countries allow Spaniards to vote in these elections, under the terms of a Treaty (British Citizens and others).

2. Every vote matters. Elections have consequences. You

have the power to make key decisions on the quality of life you want for yourself, your family and your community.

Voting is your chance to stand up for the issues you care about: affordable housing, education, local taxes and economic issues, sports, environmental and social protection, tourism, beaches, etc. Low turnout means that local issues are decided by a limited group of voters.

3. It’s your money. Everybody in our community pays taxes. Voting is your chance to choose how your money is going to be used.

4. It is an opportunity for change. If you don’t like how things are going, this is your

time. There might be issues affecting you in one way or another. If you are not satisfied about what is happening in your community, change it.

EU citizens who have never voted must register before 30.01.2023. Non­EU citizens (British citizens) must register before 15.01.2023.

If case of having the cl@ve (Spanish digital access for bureaucratic processes) you can register through the Online Registration Form.

Alternatively, you can fill out the form available on the same web page under the name City Hall Registry and hand it in to the City Hall.

Remember, YOUR VOTE DOES MATTER.

WHY YOU SHOULD VOTE Recovering well

Image Ivan Berrocal/Shutterstock.com

Travel making a comeback.

DATA released by UNWTO (the World Tourism Organisation) which monitors tourism around the world on Monday, December 19 showed that international travel is making a comeback.

According to the figures provided by the organisation world travel is changing with many popular destinations failing to recover quickly, whilst others have made a full recovery.

The UK is one of those that has struggled to recover its former glory with successive bad news having had a negative impact on its tourism trade. Business is down some 36 per cent on prepandemic figures largely driven by the negative news, but perhaps more so by the loss of two of its largest markets.

By comparison Spain’s numbers are down just 16.5 per cent.

Americans have since the pandemic changed the pattern of their travel according to industry

insiders, which has pushed the UK down the list of places to visit. Whereas in the past historical connections and the royals were a major attraction, these have been replaced by more exotic destinations like Mexico.

China has also yet to reopen its borders for outbound travel and that has cost the UK dearly. Prior to the pandemic China accounted for the second highest numbers of visitors to the UK, bringing in more than £1.7 billion in spend.

Spain on the other hand has seen a far quicker recovery with both the industry and the government quick to promote what the country has to offer, abroad.

Add to that the responsiveness of a tourism sector keen for business, one that was willing to offer good deals, reasonable prices, excellent facilities and a wonderful variety of destinations.

Perhaps the main reason is that Spain is open for business, whereas the UK is looking less so.

Peter McLaren­Kennedy

Good enough Merry

Kelli Field

AMERICANS are the kings of capitalism. Consumers extraordinaire. I knew this. But it wasn’t until we moved to Spain that I realised the Olympic ­ level consumers we truly were.

Living in the US, we always bought the latest and greatest of everything. We knew when the new electronics or fashions would be released because we were bombarded with advertising, and we were ready to buy without thinking about it.

Moving to Valencia, something immediately struck us as different. Where was the advertising? There were ads on bus shelters, subway stations, and shops. A few on local TV. But nothing on the scale of the US.

My husband noticed it first. We no longer knew

about the latest and greatest of everything. And those products wouldn’t hit Spain until long after the US, anyway. Sometimes, years. Suddenly, we stopped buying things we didn’t need.

Our life ­ long consumerism hit a bump in the road. We barely recognised each other. One morning, he looked at me across the breakfast table with a creased brow.

“I want to want something, but I don’t know what it is. What would I buy?”

I was feeling the confu ­

sion, too. I had shipped nine boxes of shoes and three boxes of handbags from the US ­ now wearing none of them. I didn’t need another bag or a new pair of Louboutins.

“I don’t need anything, either.’ I whisperedhardly recognising myself.

Our quest for the newest products soon turned into settling for good enough. And we are better people for it. But, sometimes, I still strap on the Louboutins and a Louis Vuitton bag and go to the grocery store in rural Galicia just for fun.

MARK PADDON Building

Surveyor has investigated gas explosion cases in Spain for leading insurers. Here is his advice for property owners to keep safe:­

When it comes to gas, a moment of carelessness can literally destroy a building and lives.

The force of a gas explosion should never be under­

Gas Safety Aware

estimated. If a quarter of your standard sized gas bottle (from a heater or hob) discharged into your home, the explosion could destroy

the whole house and even a larger building (if in an apartment block).

The main reasons for gas escape in Spanish homes,

other than simply leaving an unlit gas appliance on, are as follows:­

Poorly secured flexible gas pipe ­ Most of us are familiar with the orange flexi pipes which fix to the ribbed metal pipe on the regulator and appliance. It is important that the pipe slides over all ribs and this is impossible to do unless you dip the end of the pipe in a cup of hot water before pushing it on.

There must also be a jubilee clip securing the pipe around the ribbed area. Gas pipes have an expiry date on them, if ignored the pipe can perish and crack.

Pipe wear and tear where not sleeved through walls/ floors:­

Buildings can move slightly through thermal or seasonal ground movement or issues such as subsidence. Gas pipes must run freely

via the structure through a larger sleeve, otherwise a few years of movement can finally fracture a metal pipe.

Pipe joint leaks:­ A good gas fitter will test all joints with a foamy solution eg of washing up liquid and water, to see if bubbles appear, but MOST DON’T TEST! If this test has not been carried out, leaks could well occur from day one.

Ventilation: ­ All rooms, stores or voids that house gas appliances should be adequately ventilated to the outside of the house with an airbrick. Check that these have not been blocked in any way.

IF YOU SMELL GAS: Do not turn any lights on!

Open the closest window/door and

Sports central

THE popularity of sports in Spain is no secret, and a new report has revealed the extent of the country’s physical activity. The Sports Habits Survey 2022, released on Thursday, December 15, found that six in 10 people in Spain engage in regular physical activity.

The survey, which was partially funded by the Spain’s Department for Sport, investigated sporting habits among the country’s

A new report found that the majority of Spain’s population exercises weekly, with cycling as the second most popular sport.

adult population and found positive results. Weekly physical activity stands at 52.5 per cent, an increase of nearly four percentage points since the pre ­ pandemic figures in 2015.

Results differed by age and gender, the report found that young people and men are the most likely

to exercise regularly. The most popular form of sporting activity in the country was shown to be hiking, with more than 30 per cent of respondents expressing their love for the sport. Cycling, gym activity, swimming and running were the other most popular sports during the last year.

Too much wine

A DRUNKEN priest who collided with five vehicles on a street in the city of Valencia blamed his drunken state on wine he had consumed during a mass he had celebrated shortly before the accident happened.

The incident occurred on Saturday, December 10, in the Monteolivete neighbourhood of the city. Sources close to the investigation said that when Local Police officers breathalysed the man after the accident he produced a result 0.54 mg/l of alcohol in his blood.

As reported on Thursday December 15, by a local news outlet, the priest was fined and four points were withdrawn from his driving licence.

Eyewitnesses from commercial establishments near the accident scene reported that the priest regretted the events and the damage he had caused.

Photo credit: kovop58 / shutterstock.com

THE so ­ called 90 ­ day rule that restricts the number of days any foreigner or non­resident can spend in the Schengen area of Europe, has become an issue since Brexit.

For Brits who own homes in Spain or who were used to spending their winters on the Mediterranean coast, the 90­day rule has become an issue.

But it is not just the Brits who are unhappy, with Spain’s Secretary of Tourism, Fernando Valdés, recently saying that the restriction “goes against the interests of Spain.”

He said: “It is in the country’s interest to lobby and convince the EU to make an exception.”

However, the likelihood of any exemption or change to the rule is very slim. The Schengen area consists of 26 member countries all of whom have agreed to allow free movement within their borders and any change to the rules would require the agreement of all members.

By all accounts there is little appetite for changes to this rule which would effectively allow those Brits that Spain wants to stay longer, to freely move throughout all 26 countries. Whilst there is value for member states like Spain and Portugal, others stand to gain little from any change.

They are, however, said to have valid concerns

Here to stay

about any relaxation in the rule. The new ETIAS visa system that is being introduced next year is designed to ensure those who visit the Schengen block do so legally and that they do not outstay their welcome.

Perhaps in time it could be used to effect changes that will favour Brits.

Our TV picks

CHRISTMAS is always a great time for family get­togethers with good food and company followed by some great TV.

Once your Christmas lunch has had time to settle, ITV will be thrilling audiences in the new year with its latest three­part series ­ now a festive staple and always a ratings winner. Starring Matthew Macfadyen, Keeley Hawes and Pirates of the Caribbean star Kevin McNally, Stonehouse follows the intriguing tale of former Labour MP John Stonehouse who faked his own death in 1974. The series airs January 2, 3 and 4 on ITV1 at 9pm UK time.

For more behind the scenes gossip from the show, watch out for the Euro Weekly News’ exclusive interview with the show’s star Kevin McNally on page 24.

There usual reruns of family favourites will also be gracing our screens, so here is our top picks for your TV viewing this Christmas.

Among these the premieres of Trolls 2 World Tour (BBC 1 ­ December 23, 1.45pm UK time), Farmageddon, A Shaun the Sheep Movie (BBC1

Christmas Day, 1pm UK time) and 1917 (BBC 1 ­ December 27, 9pm UK time). There is of course always the soap Christmas specials on December 25 (Eastenders, BBC1, 9.25pm UK time, Coronation Street, ITV1, 7pm UK time, and Emmerdale, ITV1, 6pm UK time).

Channel 5 is also getting in on the act with classic favourite Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at 3.10pm UK time on Christmas Day.

Netflix has a whole new range of Christmas movies and series that are worth watching including Falling for Christmas with Lindsay Lohan and Operation Christmas Drop, based on a reallife story.

Series wise there is Elves, a classic gremlin tale and Nailed it! Holiday! a Christmas themed home baking competition.

Amazon Prime goes with a load of reruns including the Holiday, Love Actually and Bad Santa 2.

On Spanish TV there is a good mix of series including The Rookie (also on Netflix) as well as Nightmare in the Kitchen on Mega.

SCHENGEN VISA: To be introduced next year.

Credit MA8 shutterstock.com

Spectacular success as the Euro Weekly News and British Chamber of Commerce join forces for festive fun

ON Friday December 16, the British Chamber of Commerce in Spain and Euro Weekly News joined forces to host a stunningly fantastic evening at the Sea Grill, Puente Romano Hotel Marbella.

With glorious views of the beautiful Mediterranean Sea, the sun setting on the horizon, and the hum of festive music in the background, guests arrived dressed to impress.

Mingling among the Christmas decorations, guests caught up on a successful business year while making new contacts from across the Andalucian business community.

The British Chamber of Commerce in Spain was established in 1908 and is one of the largest foreign chambers of commerce in Europe while also being the only independent British Hispanic trade association in Spain and with over 300 member companies and regional offices across Spain and the UK.

With speeches given by British Chamber of Commerce Vice President Derek Langley, Euro Weekly News publisher Michel Euesden, Euro Weekly News Sales Director Benjamin Wickham, and Euro Weekly News online editor Sally Underwood, guests learned how much passion and care goes into both the Chamber and the Euro Weekly News.

Derek Langley said: “The Costa del Sol and Andalucia is currently one of the fastest growing regions and is continuing to grow with dynamism and growth in the area. As a leading member of the European chambers, we have a very powerful network in Spain as

well as also very well respected and strategic business partner with businesses across all the UK and Spain.”

Proud sponsor of the event, Michel Euesden said: “The one thing I can’t tame is the passion I have for the Costa del Sol, one year ago today we were all on Covid passports, the hospitality, and finance sectors were worried. We were all worried. We would have been broken in spirit if we had continued the way we were, but that’s what made us different.

“And the difference is that we had passion, we had a passion for our business, we have passion for the future, and we have a true passion for this cause and with that passion, I want to say to you to have an amazing Christmas. We have all survived something that we never thought we would have imagined. We’ve dug deep and we’re all still here today.

“Our passion makes us do extraordinary things, that passion means we don’t look at the clock, and that passion means when a client calls, we jump, that’s what having passion means to me.”

Presentations of bouquets and special gifts were handed out for the dedication of the hardworking team of both the Chamber of Commerce and of the Euro Weekly News.

Networking was done at its finest, in luxury, class, and style. As Derek Langley said it was an “eat, drink and be merry night” and the perfect way to end the business year.

Canine crime

AUTHORITIES in the UK are cracking down on illegal trafficking ahead of Christmas as puppy farmers move to take advantage of the festive season and present giving.

On Friday, December 16, nearly 30 puppies were seized in Northern Ireland’s Belfast Port after authorities found discrepancies in their paperwork. The puppies will now all be rehomed.

Speaking to a national news outlet a spokesperson for Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) said: “At this time of year, the demand for a Christmas puppy is high, which fuels the trafficking of low welfare pups

through our ports to sell them at an inflated price in Great Britain.

“Innocent animal lovers are often duped into believing these pups have come from a reputable breeder.

No justice

Pups that are being trafficked come from illegal breeding establishments known as ‘puppy farms’ where they are bred in horrendous conditions.

Illegal trafficking in puppies remains a major problem in the UK, with authorities working hard to put an end to the practice.

Admissions for flu are increasing

HOSPITAL flu admissions have overtaken Covid ­ 19 admissions in the UK for the first time since the pandemic began back in early 2020.

CHINA has recalled six officials wanted by police in connection with an incident outside the country’s consulate in Manchester earlier this year, in which protestors were beaten.

The UK’s Foreign Secretary James Cleverley said on Wednesday, December 14 that the recall came after the police provided a list of who they wished to interview over the incident. That list included the consulate general.

A written statement provided by Cleverley said: “I am disappointed that these individuals

will not be interviewed or face justice.

“Nonetheless, it is right that those responsible for the disgraceful scenes in Manchester are no longer ­ or will shortly cease to beconsular staff accredited to the UK.”

In response, the Chinese Embassy, who said that the staff were being recalled under normal rotation, blamed British police saying they had failed to protect consular staff. They added they would be lodging a formal protest with the British government.

Figures released by the UK Health Security Agency on Friday, December 16 show that the rate of flu admissions had risen to 6.8 per 100,000 (6.6 per 100,000 for Covid ­ 19) for the week to December 11.

Perhaps of most concern is that the rate of flu admissions has surpassed the number of any week over the last four years, with Dr Conall Watson, UKHSA Consultant Epidemiologist, saying: “Flu is now circulating widely and we have seen a sharp rise in the rate of hospitalisations for flu this week, particularly among the under ­ fives and over85s.

Health officials are once again calling on those who are eligible and most susceptible to take up the offer and get vaccinated as soon as possible.

ILLEGAL TRAFFICKING: Puppies are confiscated.

Image: DAERA

OFFICIALS WANTED: China withdraws six consulate staff wanted by police for questioning.

• December 23, 7.30pm, Chloe Leigh as Cher, Tommy’s Bar, Benimar

• December 24, 7pm, Lorna Michelle Singing, Stevies Lounge Bar, Quesada

• December 25, 11am, Christmas Day Beach Party, La Zenia Beach

• December 25, 11am - 6pm, Super BBQ, Chiringuitos Del Sol, La Zenia

• December 26, 3pm, Conecta2 at Caleta Beach Festival, Caleta Beach

• December 31, 11pm, New Year’s Eve Party, Plaza de la Constitución, Torrevieja

• January 2, 8pm, Towie Okie (karaoke) with A Girk Cakkes Soo, La Unica Bar, La Marquesa Golf

Fundraising firefighters

THE firefighters of Alicante City are inviting you to visit the SPEIS park this Christmas in the name of charity.

Between December 26 and December 30 the firefighters are collecting new toys and non ­ perishable packaged food which will be distributed among the neediest families and children or those in vulnerable situations during this special time of year.

On Thursday, December 15, the councillor for Safety, Jose Ramon Gonzalez, accompanied by members of the SPEIS Fire Brigade, presented their eighth charity Christmas collection event under the slogan ‘You can help to bring Christmas into every home. Bring a toy or food’.

The councillor for Safety encouraged everyone to participate and come to the park where “they will be able to get into the fire

vehicles, try on helmets and uniforms and see how the hoses and firefighting equipment work. They will enjoy a very special day whilst helping to collect toys and food at this special time of year.”

People who wish to make a donation may do so in the SPEIS park located on the beach of San Juan, Avenida de Locutor

Vicente Hipolito No. 7, from 11.00am until 1.00pm and then 5.00pm until 7.00pm.

The main aim of the campaign is to promote the values of solidarity and empathy among the public and also for the children to spend an enjoyable time with their families in the company of the Fire Brigade.

Fun run Over 60s only!

ELCHE’S elderly have been invited to the ‘Pruevas’ event which involves live music and dancing plus hot chocolate and cocktails to liven up the celebration.

The free Christmas event, which has been presented by the councillor for Policies for the Elderly, Puri Vives, will take place at the Candalix Civic Centre from 5.00pm until 10.00pm on Friday December 30.

Adults who want to participate must be 60 years old or older, be registered in Elche and go with their ID card to Menendez Pelayo Street No. 2, between 9.00am and 1.00pm, where they will receive two tickets per person until full capacity is reached.

Xmas in Pinoso

IN a bid to make the little ones happy Pinoso’s Christmas Fair, Fireta de Nadal, opened its doors on Saturday, December 17.

In addition to classic attractions such as the Chicharra Train and the Ferris Wheel, which are never missing, there are also other attractions such as recreational games and a tug ­ of ­ war.

On December 27 and January 3 from 6.00pm until 8.00om the rides will be switched off as an inclusive measure.

On the weekend of January 7 until January 9, all the rides will have a reduced price of €1.50.

GRAB your running shoes and join in the fun as Pinoso’s Department of Sports, together with the Club Atletismo El Cabeço de la Sal de Pinoso, have planned the celebration of a new edition of the San Silvestre Race which will take place on Friday, December 30.

The meeting point will be the Plaza de Espana, where registration will be open from 4pm onwards. The children’s race will be free and the adults’ race will incur a donation of €2, which will be donated to charity.

All those registered will be included in a raffle for gifts donated by local establishments and, as in previous editions, people dressed up in fancy dress will also receive a gift, in this case in the form of vouchers to be used in local establishments.

The route of the different races will be similar to that of previous events, in the children’s category around the town hall and in the adult’s category, a distance of four kilometres along the Paseo de la Constitucion.

HELPING CHARITY: The firefighters need you.

Image: David H Seymour/Shutterstock.com

Massive defeat Merry

A BILL that would have allowed the government to deport asylum seekers, genuine or not, without allowing them the opportunity to make a claim if they arrived by ‘illegal’ means, has suffered a massive defeat in the House of Commons, on December 14, after just 15 minutes of debate.

Surprising to many was that many of those said to be backers of the bill either failed to turn up for the vote or did not cast one. The bill attracted just 69 votes in favour with 188 voting against.

With more than £120 million already spent on the policy and not one person sent to Rwanda, under pressure Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had vowed to plough on with the policy. The vote will be a major setback for the government which now finds itself having to look for a better and more humane way of helping those who are genuine asylum seekers, and discouraging those who are not.

Boris booted out

Becker was found guilty of hiding £2.5million (€2.9 million) in assets while declared bankrupt but by signing up for the ‘foreign national early scheme’, it means he will probably be home in Germany for Christmas. By agreeing to be deported, foreign offenders can have up to 135 days cut from their sentences.

“Any foreign national who is convicted of a crime and given a prison sentence is considered for deportation at the earliest opportunity,” said a spokesman for the Home Office.

Becker served just eight months of his two­and­a­halfyear prison sentence.

THREE-TIME Wimbledon champion Boris Becker, 55, was freed from Huntercombe prison, Oxfordshire, and will be deported to Germany, as reported on Thursday, December 15, by a German news outlet.

ASYLUM SEEKERS: Only 69 votes in favour of the bill.

Shutterstock.com/ NikoNomad

IN September, the Euro Weekly News exclusively revealed the news that Pirates of the Caribbean, Downton Abbey and The Crown star Kevin McNally is set to film upcoming blockbuster Musketeer in Marbella.

Ahead of filming, the EWN this week sat down again with the Alister to discuss his other latest project, Stonehouse, set to be ITV’s must­watch series over the festive period.

Following the bizarre real­life story of John Stonehouse, the Labour minister who attempted to fake his own death in 1974, the three ­ part drama features McNally as prime minister Harold Wilson as he handles the fallout for his cabinet. Spooks stars Matthew MacFadyen and Keeley Hawes also star as Stonehouse and his wife Barbara as their ill­fated plot unravels spectacularly.

“When I read it I adored the script and when I watched the first episode a few weeks ago I was very pleased that they’ve brilliantly managed to achieve the balance between genuine jeopardy and very high comedy,” McNally told the EWN.

“Matthew McFadyen is beautiful in it. He’s one of the best ac­

Actor Kevin McNally talks Pirates of the Caribbean, politics, and ITV drama Stonehouse

tors in the country and maintains the jeopardy of Stonehouse brilliantly.”

This is the second turn for McNally as Harold Wilson after playing him in ‘Legend’ alongside Tom Hardy. Kevin said: “It was lovely playing him again.

“The very clever writer of Stonehouse has given Wilson a bit of an arc in this series from being on top as new prime minister to his later years when there was some doubt about his cogni­

tive abilities.”

Speaking about the parallels between the 1974 plot and the UK’s current state of politics, Kevin explained: “I was thinking a lot while playing Wilson how easy it is to get dragged into the quagmire of politics and not be able to get out.

“It makes you think, if you don’t pay your mortgage you lose your house but if you’re a banker or politician and you mess up, you don’t always lose

your job.”

Next up on the star’s work diary is a new series of the popular Alex Rider teen spy franchise which he begins filming in January. He told the EWN: “I’ve got a great part as a likeable baddy and I’m looking forward to it immensely.”

After a 50 ­ year acting career, McNally told the Euro Weekly News he also has plans to make his directorial debut after making his first ever short film during the

pandemic, to much critical acclaim. Now looking at scripts for two films, he explained he will make both into shorts with a view to directing one as a feature length film.

In a boost for Spain’s own film industry, McNally also told the EWN the script for Musketeer, in which he stars as Porthos as he gets the trio back together, is now ready ahead of filming in Spain.

Other big names are also slated to be appearing in the film.

Watch Stonehouse on ITV1 on January 2, 3 and 4 at 9pm UK time.

STONEHOUSE: A new three-part drama starring McNally. NEW SERIES: McNally is appearing in a new ITV drama.

HOLLYWOOD STAR: Kevin in Pirates of the Caribbean.

Credit: ITV

Credit: Shutterstock.com/Featureflashphotoagency

Credit: Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest

Latest admission

CROATIA is set to join the Schengen Zone after a landmark decision was made by EU ministers in Brussels on Thursday, December 8. The eastern European country will become the 27th member state of the world’s largest visa­free zone.

Sculptures returned

IN a brief statement on Friday, December 16, The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis had ordered the return to Greece of three original pieces of the iconic Parthenon. These ancient small sculptures have been in the Vatican Museum’s papal collections for more than 100 years and are around 2,500 years old.

According to the statement, the Pope ­ who celebrated his 86th birthday on, Saturday December 17 ­ is returning them as a gesture of ecumenical dialogue with the Roman Catholic Church.

One of the three pieces being handed over is the head of the horse that was located on the west side of the structure. It is depicted pulling Athena’s chariot, according to the Vatican Museum’s website. The other two feature the head of a bearded male and the head of a boy, as reported by a national news outlet.

While EU ministers and Members of the European Parliament welcomed the decision, there was also backlash over the decision to leave Romania and Bulgaria out of Schengen.

An opposition movement led by Austria resulted in the countries being left out of the Schengen Zone due to ‘security concerns’. All 26 members of the existing agreement have to vote unanimously on new additions. Austria’s Interior Minister cited illegal border crossings as the reason for Austria’s decision to veto the applications.

The decision means that motorists and passengers will no longer need to stop at the Croatian borders with other Schengen Zone countries for passport checks from 2023.

CROATIA: Set to join the Schengen Zone, signalling an end to border checks between the country and other member states.

Photo credit: EQRoy / shutterstock.com

A FRENCH court, on Tuesday, December 13, sentenced eight people for their involvement in the 2016 terrorist attack in Nice. The suspects from Tunisia and Albania were given sentences ranging from two years to 18 years in the court date held more than five years after the attack.

The barbaric attack saw 31­year­old Tunisian, Mohamed Lahouaiej ­ Bouhlel, drive a lorry into a crowd as more than 30,000 people gathered to watch firework displays on the French July national holiday, Bastille Day. The suspect was shot dead by police on the scene after the four minute attack.

The terrorist group, Daesh claimed responsibility for the attack which killed 86 people.

The court’s verdict comes at the end of a three month trial which saw survivors and victims’ families share heart ­ wrenching testimonies and victim impact statements.

Court justice

Care packs shrink

THE cost ­ of ­ living crisis has shrunk care packs for new Finnish parents according to government Social Security organisation Kela which has for the last 85 years given parents of newborns a useful starter pack.

Revealing details of the 2023 package it admits that the budget of €170 no longer buys as much as previously and although it applied for a €30 top up, this was not approved.

When putting together the package, Kela paid particular attention to the longevity of the products but global uncertainties and rising costs are reflected in the number of products included.

The 2023 pack contains 38 products, five less than in 2022, 12 less than 2021 and 17 less than 2020.

Importantly, two ­ thirds of parents continue to opt for the package over the cash benefit, a sign of its enduring popularity.

Mourners lay flowers at the scene of the 2016 terrorist attack in Nice which claimed the lives of 86 people.

Photo credit: Usoltceva Anastasiia / shutterstock.com

REBECCA SERWOTKA ­ “We sell houses! It’s what we do, it’s ALL we do!” Your favourite local resale property expert, of Inmobiliaria Real Estate Agents in Ciudad Quesada. Published author of ‘Moving Forward ­ 25 Essential Rules For Buying & Selling Real Estate Without Going Crazy.’ Request your FREE copy! Featured on Best Buy Spain. Prestige Award Winner for ‘Real Estate Agency Of The Year 2021/22 & 2022/23’. Selling a property during Christmas can be a good thing for some. The home is all decked out for the season, and the property looks extra cosy and homely. Beware! It doesn’t look good on the listing photos. Having Christmas decorations on full

display on your marketing photos, proves just how long the house has been up for sale. Christmas decorations dates them! If your property is still on the market in the summer, everyone will clearly see how long you’ve been trying to sell it.

Avoid taking any photos or videos of your property until your Christmas decorations have been taken down. That way, you won’t have to retake any photos in the new year.

If selling your property is on the top of your Christmas wish list, contact us for a free, no obligation valuation.

Ciudad Quesada and surrounding urbanisations are our specialty.

www.homes4u.es

Rebecca Serwotka.

BUSINESS EXTRA Joint award FINANCE

Block bots

IF you keep receiving telephone calls from unknown numbers that often start with a 9, then hang up if you answer then it is probably a ‘bot’ calling to see if your line is active. It is possible to block these numbers on both Android and iPhone.

Retail sales

ALTHOUGH perhaps not really bad news as yet, the UK Office of National Statistics has revealed that high street retail sales dropped by 0.4 per cent in November and despite Black Friday, online sales suffered even more with a 2.8 per cent decline.

Bah Humbug

WITH Christmas and Three Kings coming, it’s not unusual for friends and distant relations to give small gifts of money to children so that they can then save up to purchase something special, but technically any such gift should be declared in Spain for tax purposes.

Shocking figures

ELECTRICAL retailer Currys has cut its profit forecast after recording a pre­tax loss of £17 million for the half year ended October 29, 2022, down from profits of £45 million the year before, blaming weak performance outside of the UK and discounts offered by competitors.

Christmas box

EMPLOYEES of Inditex, Spanish owner of some of the world’s favourite fashion brands have become used to a rather tasty Christmas bonus and this year they will receive a recycled cardboard box stuffed full of edible and drinkable Spanish goodies worth around €200.

STAT OF WEEK €10 billion

Virgin Atlantic experiment

THE first net zero transatlantic flight will take off from the UK next year, with Virgin Atlantic receiving UK government funding to fly across the ‘pond’ using solely sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

In 2023, one of Virgin Atlantic’s flagship Boeing 787s, powered by Rolls ­ Royce Trent 1000 engines, will take off from London Heathrow and make the journey to New York’s John F Kennedy Airport ­ a journey made by thousands of people for business, family and leisure every week. But this will be no ordinary journey.

When fully replacing kerosene, SAF can slash lifecycle carbon emissions by over 70 per cent compared to conventional fossil jet fuel.

This flight is expected to be fuelled by SAF made primarily from waste oils and fats, such as used cooking oil. The use of 100 per cent SAF on the flight, combined with carbon removal through

biochar credits ­ a material which traps and stores carbon taken from the atmosphere ­ will make the flight net zero.

The government claims that not only will SAF be key in decarbonising aviation, but it could create a UK industry with an annual turnover of £2.4 billion by 2040 and will support up to 5,200 UK

jobs by 2035.

SAF is more expensive to produce and in the long run there may not be sufficient waste material to fuel all flights out of the UK, but the government will introduce an SAF mandate requiring at least 10 per cent of jet fuel to be made from sustainable sources by 2030.

Donald Trump collector cards

DONALD TRUMP NFT collector cards sold out in 12 hours after 45,000 were put on sale priced $99 (€93) each.

Trump supporters were waiting for a promised ‘major’ announcement on Thursday December 15 and most thought that he would reveal the name of his running mate in the 2024 Presidential election.

This however wasn’t the case as he announced the release of a selection of non ­ fungible tokens (NFT) showing Donald Trump in a series of poses as superhero, golfer, politician, hunter, cowboy, astronaut and much more.

NFTs are created using the same type of programming used for cryptocurrencies but they are normally used to depict

art as they are not considered cryptocurrency.

On the website offering the NFTs for sale, there

were several special offers so that the more that were purchased, the better the incentive, one of

which promised a personal dinner with the president.

In his announcement on his Truth Social media platform, Trump explained that the NFTs are “very much like a baseball card, but hopefully much more exciting,” adding that the cards “would make a great Christmas gift.”

Although happy to promote the sale of the cards which certainly make him look very slim and netted around $455,000 (€427,000), a statement on the site selling the cards went to some pains to distance itself from the president saying that he didn’t own the site although he has licenced his image to the company promoting the cards and funds raised would not be used for political reasons.

THE CEO of Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane Luigi Ferraris and José Bogas Galvez, CEO of Endesa, received the 2022 Tiepolo Award in Madrid on December 12.

Since 1996, this award has been celebrating the achievements of successful Spanish and Italian entrepreneurs and their important contribution to the strengthening of economic and trade relations between the two countries.

The award was presented by the Spanish Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, Reyes Maroto who said that the Tiepolo Award “is an example of the close economic relations” between Spain and Italy.

Cash delivery

MANY small towns and villages particularly in rural Spain have seen the closure of banks and post offices making it increasingly more difficult for individuals to obtain or deposit funds.

Correos Cash is a service being offered by the Spanish Post Office which not only allows customers of certain banks to obtain cash (with no additional charges) from post offices but money can also be delivered to the home.

By using its team of more than 6,000 rural postal staff, customers can request cash through their bank’s app, order money which will be delivered by the postman (or woman) during their rounds.

SPANISH civil engineering company Prointec, part of a consortium with two other Spanish companies, Aertec and Airia, has been awarded a contract by airport management company Aena, initially worth €25 million.

The Spanish government Airport Regulation Document (DORA) established conditions that oblige Aena to offer a quality service and with sufficient capacity to meet demand during the five­year regulatory period (2022 to 2026) and to develop an efficient service which is sustainable in the long term.

These companies will develop the necessary programmes to meet the requirements of DORA at some 12 regional airports.

in total is the amount that American investment company Goldman Sachs has now confirmed that it has pumped into Spanish groups Santander, BBVA and Iberdrola.

Credit: Bill Abbott flickr

Virgin Atlantic Boeing 787 will undertake the first net zero flight.

3I Group 1.296,00 1.335,00 1.295,00 355,69K

Abrdn 182,40 189,25 182,35 3,35M

Admiral Group 2.015,0 2.049,0 2.012,0 372,91K

Anglo American 3.095,5 3.121,5 3.065,0 1,74M

Antofagasta 1.448,50 1.468,50 1.425,50 682,48K

Ashtead Group 4.759,0 4.873,0 4.732,0 594,27K

Associated British Foods 1.552,5 1.573,0 1.550,0 353,37K

AstraZeneca 11.102,0 11.366,0 11.062,0 1,46M

Auto Trader Group Plc 536,00 551,20 536,00 1,12M

Aveva 3.210,0 3.214,0 3.207,0 41,64K

Aviva 435,60 446,00 435,50 11,89M

B&M European Value Retail SA406,30 411,90 404,60 2,70M

BAE Systems 834,00 846,40 827,40 4,00M

Barclays 154,24 155,74 153,84 54,83M

Barratt Developments 397,10 410,60 396,60 1,67M

Berkeley 3.776,0 3.876,0 3.772,0 363,23K

BHP Group Ltd 2.502,00 2.528,50 2.489,50 34,34K

BP 457,50 468,25 456,30 28,41M

British American Tobacco 3.257,0 3.312,0 3.231,5 2,14M

British Land Company 389,80 400,30 387,90 1,32M

BT Group 112,57 114,70 112,50 10,32M

Bunzl 2.850,0 2.924,0 2.819,0 44,43K

Burberry Group 2.039,0 2.079,0 2.033,0 700,77K

Carnival 612,0 622,4 606,4 281,41K

Centrica 91,72 92,90 91,54 8,89M

Coca Cola HBC AG 1.921,0 1.943,5 1.915,5 227,80K

Compass 1.897,00 1.909,00 1.889,50 1,98M

CRH 3.154,0 3.213,5 3.138,5 616,36K

Croda Intl 6.708,0 6.880,0 6.634,0 204,03K

DCC 4.114,0 4.240,0 4.110,0 232,49K

Diageo 3.610,0 3.690,0 3.589,0 2,49M

DS Smith 310,59 314,30 310,40 1,81M

EasyJet 355,05 365,10 354,60 1,01M

Experian 2.849,0 2.911,0 2.824,0 1,03M

Ferguson 10.185,0 10.320,0 10.120,0 169,97K

Flutter Entertainment 11.375,0 11.635,0 11.340,0 234,67K

Fresnillo 852,40 853,20 828,20 421,72K

Glencore 530,00 536,10 524,20 20,72M

GSK plc 1.428,40 1.448,20 1.419,40 3,80M

Halma 2.081,0 2.128,0 2.072,0 425,81K

Hargreaves Lansdown 852,40 877,80 850,00 502,79K

Hikma Pharma 1.503,98 1.520,00 1.491,50 223,96K

HSBC 489,70 496,30 481,00 18,75M

IAG 131,12 134,06 130,90 6,17M

Imperial Brands 2.031,00 2.059,00 2.028,00 1,33M

Informa 607,20 618,80 604,40 1,96M

InterContinental 4.811,0 4.897,0 4.808,0 299,36K

Intermediate Capital 1.162,50 1.193,00 1.155,00 529,78K

Intertek 3.963,0 4.045,0 3.933,0 176,31K

ITV 69,49 73,72 69,40 11,31M

J Sainsbury 217,20 221,60 217,20 4,08M

Johnson Matthey 2.072,0 2.113,0 2.063,0 214,78K

Land Securities 620,40 639,00 616,40 965,77K

Legal & General 246,80 254,10 246,50 22,53M

Lloyds Banking 45,11 45,63 44,88 75,13M

London Stock Exchange 7.306,0 7.460,0 7.258,0 452,57K

Melrose Industries 124,95 126,45 123,90 4,12M

Mondi 1.413,00 1.431,50 1.414,00 45,17K

National Grid 1.004,50 1.019,00 1.000,50 4,02M

NatWest Group 259,05 260,70 258,50 6,96M

Next 5.614,0 5.756,0 5.608,0 223,07K

Norilskiy Nikel ADR 9,10 9,10 9,10 0

Ocado 649,40 661,20 640,00 903,94K

Persimmon 1.218,0 1.262,5 1.217,5 526,35K

Phoenix 595,20 612,60 595,00 1,13M

Prudential 1.045,00 1.068,50 1.043,50 3,23M

Reckitt Benckiser 5.686,0 5.758,0 5.676,0 775,94K

Relx 2.301,00 2.327,00 2.286,36 41,43K

Rentokil 513,40 531,40 512,80 2,73M

Rightmove 527,80 541,40 527,80 1,62M

Rio Tinto PLC 5.628,0 5.700,0 5.584,0 1,66M

Rolls-Royce Holdings 87,63 89,42 86,53 17,11M

Sage 772,40 783,80 767,80 902,47K

Samsung Electronics DRC 1.123,50 1.131,50 1.117,50 5,23K

Schroders 440,9 454,0 440,5 1,09M

Scottish Mortgage 744,20 755,80 739,40 1,80M

Segro 757,40 801,60 756,80 2,91M

Severn Trent 2.701,0 2.741,0 2.683,0 387,57K

Shell 2.254,5 2.325,0 2.242,5 8,13M

Smith & Nephew 1.086,50 1.103,00 1.080,00 1,01M

Smiths Group 1.590,50 1.611,00 1.585,00 1,45M

Spirax-Sarco Engineering 10.860,0 11.140,0 10.845,0 100,19K SSE 1.698,50 1.724,00 1.690,50 1,32M

St. James’s Place 1.102,00 1.127,50 1.095,50 1,84M

Standard Chartered 614,40 618,60 605,60 3,00M

Taylor Wimpey 100,25 104,00 100,00 5,26M

Tesco 222,10 225,70 222,10 22,79M

Tui 134,00 138,06 133,07 175,15K

Unilever 4.117,0 4.173,0 4.073,0 2,45M

United Utilities 1.019,50 1.038,50 1.012,00 701,55K

Vodafone Group PLC 84,52 85,94 84,26 46,04M

Whitbread 2.593,0 2.666,0 2.581,0 336,02K WPP 801,60 813,60 801,00 1,34M

3M 122,38 125,08 3,19M

American Express 150,22 152,28 146,47 4,10M

Amgen 266,14 271,12 263,45 3,14M

Apple 136,50 141,80 136,02 96,27M

Boeing 183,72 187,98 181,28 5,26M

Caterpillar 230,66 232,93 227,72 2,88M

Chevron 171,04 171,37 168,05 6,85M

Cisco 48,15 49,05 47,74 19,16M

Coca-Cola 63,11 63,89 62,49 11,76M

Dow 49,53 50,56 49,36 6,11M

Goldman Sachs 349,83 356,11 347,94 2,90M

Home Depot 327,60 330,02 323,37 4,96M

Honeywell 208,97 213,72 208,03 3,14M

IBM 142,36 148,98 141,58 6,64M

Intel 27,15 28,00 27,12 45,27M

J&J 177,49 179,84 176,40 6,91M

JPMorgan 130,10 132,08 129,05 11,93M

McDonald’s 271,73 274,38 269,21 2,65M

Merck&Co 109,63 110,77 109,23 9,78M

Microsoft 249,01 254,20 247,34 34,98M

Nike 108,51 109,62 107,73 7,30M

Procter&Gamble 151,11 152,00 149,74 6,82M

Salesforce Inc 130,44 134,12 129,68 10,72M

The Travelers 183,57 185,91 182,94 1,20M

UnitedHealth 527,68 534,07 525,47 2,73M

Verizon 37,77 38,34 37,66 32,82M

Visa A 207,91 211,82 206,82 10,72M

Walgreens Boots 39,53 40,28 39,33 5,59M

Walmart 145,36 146,42 143,63 5,76M

Walt Disney 90,49 93,12 90,11 14,43M

Most Advanced

Akbank T.A.S. +6.82% 15,312

Agricultural Bank of China Limited +5.01% 25,700

Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S. +4.98% 813,799

Lennar Corporation +4.64% 116,821

LGI Homes, Inc. +4.49% 311,319

CLP Holdings Limited +4.34% 33,000

Cytokinetics, Incorporated +4.08% 1.723M

Most Declined

TransAlta Renewables Inc. -17.95% 47,340

First Quantum Minerals Ltd. -16.01% 76,195

Roblox Corporation -15.76% 39.946M

PT Hanjaya Mandala Sampoerna Tbk -13.82% 70,124

Pilbara Minerals Limited -13.30% 554,465

AMTD Digital Inc. -11.94% 357,502

Ivanhoe Mines Ltd. -11.78% 197,746

Liontown Resources Limited -10.84% 22,800

Megacable Holdings, S. A. B. de C. V. -10.65% 31,200

Super Micro Computer, Inc. -10.51% 1.662M

Western Digital Corporation -10.10% 10.835M

BUSINESS EXTRA

Saw it first

ALTHOUGH only recently announced, Frasers Group, (the company whose main stakeholder is Mike Ashley, former owner of Newcastle Football Club) continues on its acquisition path, taking over online fashion company I Saw It First for just £1 and debts in July of this year.

Folding phones

HAVING seen the success that Samsung is having with promoting its folding mobile phone, two Chinese companies Oppo and Xiaomi have now made it clear that they intend to restyle and relaunch their own folding phones in Europe in 2023 to capture some of the market.

Inditex grows

SOME worried that after a change of top management, Spanish multinational clothing company Inditex would see profits slump, but it has now reported a 19 per cent growth in sales to €23.1 billion in the first nine months of 2022 and gross profit of €13.5 billion.

UK bank rate

THE Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) sets monetary policy to meet the 2 per cent inflation target and in a way that it believes will help to sustain growth and employment.

At its meeting held on December 14, but not announced until the following day, the MPC voted by a majority of 63 to increase Bank Rate by 0.5 percentage points, to 3.5 per cent.

Two members preferred to maintain the Bank Rate as it stood at 3 per cent, whilst a third member wanted to increase it by 0.75 per cent.

Spanish trade deficit

THERE’S good and bad news for Spain’s international trade with the announcement of record exports and imports at the end of October.

Spanish merchandise exports were up 23.6 per cent at just under €320 billion but at the same time, the value of imports outpaced exports, rising 38 per cent to €380 billion for the period January to October 2022.

Secretary of State for Trade, Xiana Méndez said on Thursday December 15, “In a complex international context where there is a slowdown in world trade, the Spanish foreign sector continues to show dynamism and trade flows remain at high levels.

“We must continue adding so that our sector abroad is ever broader, more and more companies are exporting and that exports are of greater added value. “The interannual

Soaring mortgages

SOARING mortgage rates could see house prices plummet and with the announcement of a further hike in UK interest rates to 3.5 per cent, KIS Finance has been looking at how this ninth consecutive rise since last December could hurt the housing market.

The UK economy is currently reeling from a barrage of problems. With inflation running at 10.7 per cent and the cost­of­living soaring, households are under extreme pressure.

KIS argue that in the normal scheme of things, the Bank of England would usually reduce interest rates in a recession to try to stimulate growth.

Similarly, in times of high inflation they would use the same form of monetary policy to raise interest rates, to control inflation by reducing spending.

However, the economy is currently in the challenging situation of facing

both high inflation and a recession at the same time.

The Office for Budgetary Responsibility (OBR) is forecasting a record ­ breaking 4.3 per cent drop in disposable incomes per person, the largest fall since the Office of National Statistics’ records began in 1956.

Recent data has shown that one in four mortgage customers have seen their repayments increase every six weeks since De­

cember 2021, with those on variable rate or tracker mortgages being the first to feel the impact.

House prices are already being affected, with the average annual increase in house prices falling in November to 4.7 per cent from 8.2 per cent the previous month.

At the same time Zoopla have reported a 44 per cent decrease in demand for housing since the mini ­ budget which saw interest rates soar.

than that achieved by France (20.5 per cent) and Germany (14.6 per cent).”

At the end of the day however, to have such an enormous and regular trade deficit can not be good for the Spanish economy and whilst there is plenty of money sloshing about thanks to the EU Recovery Fund, it will eventually run out and repayments of part of the Fund which was made as a loan will have to be made.

One bright spot is that the October monthly deficit of €6.8 billion was less than the previous month thanks to a fall in energy prices.

Interestingly, despite all of the hoo ­ ha about the difficulty of trade for the UK following Brexit, imports to Spain from Britain grew by 21 per cent whilst sales from Spain stood up by just 10.7 per cent.

Spanish success

Speaking about her appointment Ms Serrano said, “I am passionate about brands, the consumer and the fashion industry, and throughout my career developed the skills and experience to win in this increasingly competitive market.

The opportunity to lead the iconic Calvin Klein brand and unlock its full potential across the world is a dream come true. I look forward to working with Stefan (Larsson, CEO of parent PVH) and the PVH and Calvin Klein teams to propel the next chapter of growth for the brand.”

NI trade

OFFICIAL trade data on the Northern Ireland Protocol has disproved claims about its negative impact on flows between Northern Ireland and Britain according to a statement by Sinn Féin.

Its spokesperson explained that the Northern Ireland Economic Trade Statistics (NIETS) recorded the value of trade between the north and Britain during the first year of the post­Brexit agreement.

It showed sales between Britain and the north increased by 7 per cent in 2021 and new research from the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (Nisra) shows the £14.45 billion in sales between Britain and the north last year was £1 billion more than both 2020 and 2019.

growth of

Spanish exports between January and October was higher

DYNAMISM: Xiana Méndez spoke about trade flows remaining high.

Credit: Secretary of State for Trade Twitter

MALAGA born Eva Serrano who has spent more than 20 years with Inditex, ending up as President for China is to move to become Global Brand President of Calvin Klein from March 2023.

HOUSING MARKET: Showing signs of the times.

Credit: Stephengg

flickr

The norm

AS an ol’ Bayswater lad of the 60s, I can categorically state that Trans gendering and diverse sexual preferences are not merely a phenomena of the 21st century. This whole merry gambit was actually labelled in the late 40s and 50s, when those who practised it were known as Transsexuals or Transvestites.

In those days the drag queens and ‘female impersonators’ were, in the main purveyors of fun and frolics (how can we ever forget the outrageous antics of the highly talented Danny LaRue?).

Well it’s not the same anymore is it? We are now asked to accept and regard as ‘the norm,’ and are made to feel we are in some way unfairly victimising another minority group if not.

Why should I now be made to feel bad because I don’t actually agree with three and four ­ yearolds being taught transsexualism? Or object to gender free toilets, which are making young children so embarrassed they would rather

Keeping

JUST as we all have medical check­ups to make sure we are in good health or take our cars for an MOT to make sure they are road ­ worthy, we should also check our homes regularly to safeguard ourselves against unforeseen events and to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Lotti Lundstedt, from Liberty Seguros offers us some tips on how best to avoid damage to our homes and shares with us the popular home insurance covers for properties in Spain:

“The most common claims are those caused by water damage. As a general rule, we always recommend closing stopcocks ­ even if you are only going to be away for a short period of time.

“What’s more, there are other small actions that can be taken to prevent unintended damage too. From not using the toilet as a waste bin, to protecting drains with filters, unblocking drains as

wet themselves than visit the loo?

The thing that truly sticks in my craw is the fact that minorities are allowed to shout their beliefs and opinions from the rooftops, while those of the majority are chastised for merely stating their opinion.

One victim of this one ­ sided attitude was a lady named Maya Forstater, who lost her job after questioning the UK government plans to let people choose their own gender.

She had stated that in her opinion ‘sex is a biological fact and is immutable; therefore Transgender people cannot change sex’. The employment tribunal judge deemed that her view was not worthy of respect and ‘may even constitute unlawful harassment of trans people’.

Now whether she was right or wrong is irrelevant, this is not about homophobia. This woman had been sacked merely for expressing her firmly held views. Once again it appears that free ­

dom of speech is only reserved for those who hold minority status.

In fact, after this tribunal decision, even author JK Rowlings came out in support of this woman, despite predictably becoming the victim abuse on social media.

Delighted to report that Ms Forstater has finally won her claim that she was unfairly discriminated against. Yaay, does this mean the traitorous woke brigade are at last becoming routed? Don’t hold yer breath. By the way, where have all the global warming brigade got to?

Have a great Christmas. Remember whose birthday we are celebrating. And always Keep the faith.

Love Leapy. Leapylee2002@gmail.com.

IS CASH KING? OUR VIEW

THERE is no doubt that more and more people find it convenient to pay with debit cards for small transactions and generally speaking most business seem to be comfortable with this even though they do have to pay an element of commission and wait for payment to be received.

In many ways, this suits large organisations better as their risk of theft either by staff or robbery as cash is transported to banks is greatly reduced.

For smaller businesses however, there seems to be a groundswell of preference for payment by cash as it is immediate and saves bank charges as well as making ‘cash flow’ more immediate.

In Spain, the government has upset the European Union by passing a law which means that it is illegal to make a cash payment of more than €1,000 for any service provided by or involving a professional company.

Clearly this is to cut down on the so­called black economy where work is undertaken without charging VAT or declaring the income for general tax purposes, in addition, it makes it just a little more difficult for money launderers to dispose of cash.

On the other hand, there is another law that means that all businesses are required to accept payment in cash up to the allowed level.

Some want to see a cashless society, but no matter how honest you are, not everyone wants to have ‘big brother’ recording every transaction they may make as they see this as yet another example of government snooping.

Hopefully the day will never come when cash disappears completely.

home safe with guidance from Liberty Seguros

soon as you come across a blockage, preventing damp by maintaining good ventilation throughout the home, checking pipe joints and making sure there are no leaks coming from the cistern or dripping taps. These are all simple but effective ways to keep your home protected all year round.”

Nevertheless, in the case of damage caused by water, Liberty Seguros home insurance policies do offer extensive cover. Policy

holders can rest assured that expenses incurred with regard to locating the damage are covered, as is the repair and/or replacement of damaged parts within the confines of the home.

Home insurance policies with Liberty Seguros also cover the breakage of pipes ­ even if there is no actual damage caused by the leak ­ and excess water consumption can be claimed for up to €1,000 per claim each year.

Lotti Lundstedt continues: “In

recent years ­ and as a result of climate change ­ extreme events which cause significant damage to homes have become more and more common. With this in mind, coverages that include damage due to atmospheric, meteorological, geological or seismic phenomena such as landslides, subsidence or floods are in high demand.

“At Liberty Seguros we have taken this into account and with our optional ‘Accidental All Risks’ cover, all of these scenarios are covered ­ even if they are not actually considered ‘extraordinary’ under current legislation.”

Lundstedt also explains that one of the most asked questions is whether locks and keys are included in Liberty Seguros home

policy. She reveals: “Our Liberty Seguros home insurance policy includes a complete assistance. We will actually send a locksmith out to you if you find yourself locked out by accident, and of course, you are also covered for locksmith services if your keys are lost, stolen or broken, or even if the lock has been rendered useless due to an attempted burglary, or other.”

Liberty Seguros believes that whilst it’s not compulsory by law, having a home insurance policy that is adapted to YOU is essential for your peace of mind. It’s for this reason that Liberty Seguros makes it as easy for you as possible to adapt your home policy to meet your REAL needs.

What’s more, with Liberty Seguros there are more than 300 expat agents and brokers that are available to assist you with faceto­face advice in your OWN language.

LIBERTY SEGUROS: The expat’s preferred insurer in Spain.

NORAJOHNSON

A YOUNG man arrested at Windsor Castle with a crossbow on Christmas Day last year was charged under the 180­year­old Treason Act (introduced under Queen Victoria after two men fired at her in the space of two days in 1842. It created a new offence that’s less serious than high treason, the punishment for which was death).

Well, what about other ancient UK laws that have never been repealed ­ even though statutes may have rendered some obsolete?

Among the weirdest are the ones banning you from eating mince pies on Christmas Day.

Guilty as charged, m’lud! But if you lock me up, you’ll have to imprison at least half the UK

population too...

Other bizarre laws still in existence include a ban on firing a cannon close to a house, the use of any slide upon ice or snow, or driving cattle through the streets of London. But a pregnant woman can legally relieve herself anywhere she wants!

Finally, it’s illegal not to tell the tax man anything you don’t want him to know, but it’s perfectly legal not to give him information you don’t mind him knowing (umm, yeah. I think I’ve got that).

HAPPY CHRISTMAS!

Nora Johnson’s 11 critically acclaimed psychological crime thrillers (www.norajohnson.net) all available online including eBooks (€0.99; £0.99), Apple Books, audiobooks, paperbacks at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

Life after loss

THE death of a life partner is traumatic enough, sometimes made far worse by financial worries.

Peter and Gillian had been married for 30 years when they moved to Spain after retiring.

They both found a new life with new friends and enjoyed new hobbies. He learnt fishing and she learnt Spanish.

One spring morning Peter went fishing in the mountain streams that were full from the previous weeks rain.

Gillian called his mobile when he didn’t arrive to help prepare the lunch, they had planned that day at the house, but he didn’t answer.

She was beginning to worry when her phone rang ­ it was Peter’s number calling.

She immediately picked up and was about to speak when a voice asked in broken English if she knew a person called Peter.

It was the ambulance

crew who had first arrived at the scene ­ Peter had had a massive heart attack whilst driving home. He had been taken to the hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

Gillian was too numb with shock and disbelief. Her Peter was gone.

As Gillian started to deal with her loss it was clear that Peter’s finances had not been well managed, he owed significant amounts and had no life or funeral insurance.

Their savings had gone into the house and the small pension would not cover the bills.

She borrowed for the fu­

neral and had no money left over for the thousands of euros of debt that had accumulated.

She took the decision to sell the house and downsize and buy a small one bedroom apartment for herself. Even after selling furniture and other belongings she was still short for the removals.

She was put in touch with the BBF to see about helping with the removal costs to her new home, which we were able to do.

Gillian still lives there today and has a new life.

Olaf Clayton of BBF.

NoraJohnson’sopinionsareherownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

Noraistheauthorofpopularpsychological suspenseandcrimethrillersandafreelancejournalist.

Nora’s latest thriller.

Meeting clients’ needs

GRUPO TRIVIAL is a company supplying aluminium products to the domestic market here on the Costa Blanca. With more than 35 years experience, the team working today pride themselves on their quality of installation and providing materials of the best quality.

With a range of products we are able to meet all of our clients’ needs. Windows and doors made to measure. Gates and fencing in a range of styles with low maintenance.

Specialists in a range of roofing products. From fixed to opening roofs with the option of motorisation including bioclimatic pergolas and carports. Available in glazed and insulated styles.

Installers of the full range of glass curtain systems with full manufacturer backed guarantees.

When contacting our office we will provide you with a time and date when our representative can visit to discuss your requirements, advise on materials and design.

Christmas clean up

THE festive season is here and that means more guests than usual in our homes, which can make cleaning stressful. But today, we bring you three top tips to help make holiday cleaning straightforward and

stress­free!

Little and often Cleaning your home doesn’t need to be an all­day job. Set aside five minutes each day for each area of your home. Your daily tidying tasks

Winter warmers

THE cold weather has well and truly arrived, and many of us are feeling the bite, especially in older Spanish homes. Today, we’re sharing some quick tips on how you can keep your home a cosy haven, away from the cold weather.

Make the most of sunlight

Luckily, the sun still comes out on most days during the Spanish winter. Take advantage of any sunny spots in your home by opening the blinds during the day, but keep windows closed for most of the day to keep the cold out.

Clamp down on draughts

Even in the cosiest homes, draughts can make a room much colder. Identify colder spots in your home and cover them using draught excluders or insulating tape.

Radiator care

Ensure portable radiators are placed in a good spot, away from furniture which will absorb their heat, and avoid drying clothing on them when you’re trying to heat a room.

should include making your bed, airing the house, dusting the sides, and sweeping floors. Having a basic tidy standard will help everything else fall into place.

Focus on key areas

When you have guests over, focus your energy on the rooms they will be using. Clean your bathrooms, kitchen and living spaces. The chances are, you can leave most of the bedrooms for later.

Enlist help

In the festive period, lots of guests means extra help too. Send the kids off to the park while you get the house straight.

Misappropriation misstep

CASSANDRA NASH

PEDRO SANCHEZ is currently tinkering with the Penal Code.

For starters, the crime of Sedition will be downgraded to ‘aggravated public disorder’, bringing Spain out of the Dark Ages and into line with European legislation.

That this benefits the now­pardoned leaders of Catalonia’s Proces towards independence is not coincidental. It also satisfies Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya (ERC) whose parliamentary support the PSOE­UP coalition needs at every turn.

Spain’s right­wing, unhappy with the Sedition tinkering is still less happy about redefining misuse of public funds. This again assists Catalonia’s pro­independence leaders who were also imprisoned for using public money to achieve their goals.

Interestingly, there are PSOE and Partido Popular politicians who would benefit in cases where misappropriation did not personally enrich the misusers.

The Opposition oppose every government measure on principle and the Right predictably criticised the move, but so did PSOE grandees and the barons who head regional governments.

No matter that Spain’s Defence minister

Margarita Robles insisted on television that the reform was not a backward step in fighting corruption. “Enrichment will not be accepted at all,” she sternly declared.

Earlier, Emilio Garcia Page, PSOE president of Castilla­La Mancha and unenthusiastic about the Sedition move, maintained that the Spanish want a government that has no truck with crimes ‘directly or indirectly’ related to corruption.

The PSOE secretary general for Madrid, Juan Lobato, said there could be no joking with public money while Juan Espadas preferred to ‘remain cautious’, according to sources close to Andalucia’s PSOE leader.

“Misappropriation is, in any of its forms, corruption,” argued Javier Lamban, PSOE president of the Junta de Aragon who invariably questions Sanchez’s plans and policies.

On Monday December 12 Sanchez guaranteed that no Proces leaders would be let off the hook for using public cash to fund the unauthorised referendum of October 1, 2017.

Meanwhile he is uncomfortably trying to keep everyone happy while pleasing no­one. Sedition might belong to the Dark Ages, but corruption belongs to the present.

Cleaning over the festive period doesn’t need to be stressful. Put five minutes into cleaning each area per day and your job will be simple

Health and wellness trends Beauty sleep

THE New Year is nearly here which means many of us will be thinking about making resolutions to improve our health and wellness.

Today we’re sharing three of the most exciting health and wellness trends that are tipped to be huge in 2023, and fortunately for us all, they’re easy to pick up!

Functional fitness

Internet analysts have seen a sharp uptick in people searching for terms including ‘mobility stretching’ and ‘posture im­

provement’, suggesting that this kind of fitness, to make our daily routines more comfortable is about to become huge. Fitness experts have also noted an increase in people seeking to build fitness to assist in their daily routines.

Emotional expression

More and more people are looking for creative ways to express their emotions and deal with the pressures of having an online presence. Creative emotional expression is set to be huge in the wellness industry next year with more

people expected to take up journal writing, musical and art activities for emotional expression.

Personalised wellness experiences

With so much information available out there, health experts are seeing an increase in people seeking personalised wellness advice. Some websites now provide popular services where clients fill in a survey about their habits to receive customised advice on vitamins and supplements to take.

CHRISTMAS is nearly here and between all the excitement of festive parties, dinners with friends, and family time, it can be difficult to get a full night’s sleep. Here we bring you some advice from sleep experts on how you can indulge in some quality sleep during the winter.

Maintain a routine

Functional fitness is expected to be a huge health trend in 2023, as people seek to make their daily routine more comfortable.

Lots of socialising and late nights mean we often wake up later over Christmas. However, try to stick to some kind of sleep routine or you could suffer from interrupted sleep as your body clock struggles to keep up. Keeping a routine also makes it easier to recover your routine later on.

Control drinking

Keep a routine over the festive period to boost the quality of your sleep, leaving you full of energy for all of the festivities.

Experts recommend stopping drinking at least an hour before trying to sleep. Too much alcohol won’t just give you a hangover, it also limits the quality of your sleep. Switch from alcohol to water an hour before bed and your body will thank you for it.

Exercise regularly

It’s hard to get our normal exercise routine in over the festive period, but committing to a little exercise now and then can improve the quality of our sleep. Exercising outdoors is thought to be particularly beneficial for improving sleep quality, its proven stress reducing effects can help you to sleep more comfortably at night.

Preventing seasonal colds

CHRISTMAS is nearly here and while that means a huge boost for our social calendar, all of the parties and social interactions can also increase our likelihood of catching seasonal colds. Here we share some top

tips to help you avoid nasty bugs while having a good time!

General health

Our health habits underpin our overall health, particularly at Christmas. Don’t let all of the social dinners

and festive treats completely derail your normal health routine. Instead take some time to make sure you are still eating a nutritious diet and fitting in exercise when you can. ‘Little and often’ is our Christmas exercise motto!

If you are eligible for a flu vaccine this is another great way to boost your immunity.

Hygiene habits

Be sure to practice good hygiene at social events, keep your own cup separate from friends and wash your hands often. There are loads of colds flying around at this time of year, so taking a few extra steps pays off for your health.

Take breaks

If you have serious health concerns, don’t feel pressure to do it all. After two years of the pandemic, people are more understanding than ever about health issues, so if you need to take a breather from the social activity, go for it!

Photo credit: Yuganov Konstantin / shutterstock.com

Merry Festive hair care

DECEMBER brings several hair woes. Between cold and windy weather drying out your hair and hats crushing your hairstyle, it can be hard to deal with your hair during the winter.

But all is not lost, here are some tips from hairdressers so you feel and look your best for all of your festive social events this season!

Hydration

Getting luscious locks starts within. Ensure you’re getting enough hydration throughout

the day and your hair will show the results.

Cut back on washes

During winter weather the prospect of a warm shower is very tempting, and by all means go for it, but don’t wash your hair every time you shower. Washing your hair frequently can strip it of its natural oils which are needed to keep your hair looking healthy and feeling fresh.

Wear a hat

Although the thought of a hat crushing your style and

making your hair frizzy is frustrating, hats are necessary during December to protect your hair from dry air which causes breakages and damages.

Air dry hair

Frequently blow drying your hair makes your hair brittle and dry. Fight this by letting your hair dry naturally, it will appear more healthy and shiny. Factor this in to your routine by planning hair washes for evenings instead of mornings.

Beneficial reading

READING is one of the most popular hobbies in the world, but it has also been proven to be good for your health. Here, we share some key reasons why you should pick up a book over the festive period and feel you best!

Stress management ­ Experts have found that reading is a highly effective tool in managing stress. Getting immersed in a great book helps you to shift your focus, slow your breathing, and relax. This helps you to disconnect from daily stress, which is particularly valuable at this time of year with the pressures of social events and hosting.

Emotional health ­ Researchers have found that reading fiction titles is hugely beneficial for our emotional health. We develop empathy and insight into other people’s thoughts and feelings by reading, which can be useful in our own lives.

Cognitive function ­ Reading a book is a cognitive action that requires brain activity and stimulates different zones of the

brain. Researchers highlight the value of reading for improving memory, saying it can even prevent memory loss in some cases.

Sleep quality ­ Reading books

can also help us to sleep better. While using electronics before bed adversely affects our sleep quality, reading a book can help you to relax and to sleep more deeply.

Watching the waistline

CHRISTMAS is nearly here, and that means some of our favourite festive treats are just around the corner. However, the festive season can be a source of stress for those of us who are trying to watch their weight or stick to a healthy routine. Today we’re sharing some useful advice on how you can enjoy Christmas without worrying about losing your progress.

Take a break

Christmas meals are traditionally pretty huge which can be overwhelming for those with health concerns. Take breaks from eating and cut back on extras you won’t be able to finish. Nutritionists recommend eating a normal­sized meal and taking a 20minute break before filling your plate again.

Move around

There are so many people to catch up with at Christmas, sometimes we end up sitting down for long periods of time. But you can keep your activity levels up by moving around, try walking around the kitchen, take a walk while you talk to family or break out the traditional family games like frisbee or catch.

Eat some fruit

Lots of Christmas treats are loaded with sugar and additives. Give your body some nourishment by reaching your five­a­day of fruits whenever you can throughout the festive period.

Photo

Happy holidays

LINDA HALL

WHAT’S the difference between December 24 and December 25?

The answer to that is still ‘A Spanish Christmas’ although it is steadily catching up with everybody else’s.

These days Christmas starts with the Constitution Day and Inmaculada national holidays on December 6 and 8, which get people in the right mood, building up a nice head of steam for Nochebuena.

Nochebuena is still the night when families get together, eat too much, and drink too much, although to my knowledge they no longer sing carolsmuch jollier than northern Europe’saccompanied by somebody rubbing a pencil up and down a bottle of Anis El Mono. It had to be a cut ­ glass Anis El Mono bottle, because no other bottle produced the right sound.

There are presents now on Christmas Eve instead of waiting until Twelfth Night on January 6 so that everybody, especially children, gets double rations.

Then there are those Christmas invaders, the poinsettias. Look for a hyacinth or a cyclamen after the first week of December and all you can get are poinsettias.

Native to Mexico and Central America they were around in Spain long before they appeared at Christmas, often in the gardens of those who went to the Americas to make their fortune or at least retire in some kind of comfort to their hometowns.

The original name is now overlooked and the plant is invariably identified as the Flor de Pascua, which summons up another invader because even in the extremely conservative non ­ coastal city where I live, you are wished Feliz Navidad as often as Felices Pascuas or Felices Fiestas.

For that we can thank Jose Feliciano’s Feliz Navidad which came out in 1970 and whose hypnotic chorus is gradually choking out every other greeting.

Interestingly Felices Fiestas means the Happy Holidays that makes so many people get their tinsel in a twist each Christmas. But if the Spanish can say it, why can’t we?

Second chances?

SALLY UNDERWOOD POLITICAL ANIMAL

FOLLOWING the news that David Cameron is set to take a job teaching politics at a university at a university in Abu Dhabi (yes really), it got me thinking about all the possible jobs for former politicians.

To be fair to Cameron it’s only a threeweek gig, but it did inspire me to take a look at all the weird and often very unexpected things some of our former elected representatives end up doing.

There’s the eternally­mocked Lembit Opik who instead of choosing a career as the third member of the Cheeky Girls (you can almost hear Simon Cowell cursing himself for that missed opportunity), went straight into stand­up comedy after losing his seat in 2010.

His foray into being funny was admittedly short­lived but an unexpected twist of political fate nonetheless.

And of course, who during the 2008 financial crash could have predicted seeing former chancellor of the exchequer Ed Balls dancing to Gangnam Style just a few

years later?

Of course much is already said about the former politicians who go into astonishingly lucrative roles in after dinner speaking and other careers that most normal people wouldn’t consider, well, work.

Tony Blair, as well as establishing a foundation which seeks to bring peace to the Middle East, seems to have been able to make life fairly comfortable for himself with an estimated €50.3 million personal worth made from a mixture of advisory roles, book writing and speech making.

Boris Johnson is already said to have made €1 million from just four speaking engagements since his term as PM came to an abrupt end in September.

Given that being an MP in and of itself simultaneously qualifies you for almost everything and absolutely nothing though, is there such a thing as a really appropriate job for a former MP?

Of course, the ones who started life as a doctor, lawyer or other profession/trade can simply slot back in where they left off. But what about the ones who’ve only ever known politics? Where do they go?

I’m sure the general public would have some suggestions.

Winter transformation

THE festive season is all around in our homes, but often we neglect our gardens at this time of year. Here we share some gardening advice to help you make the most of your garden, making it a true

winter wonderland!

1. Plan your garden Why not create a theme for your festive garden? Think up a colour scheme that will make your garden look its best. While neutral and dark

Drying times

DRYING clothes in the summer in Spain couldn’t be easier with abundant sunshine and rooftops to hang clothes on, but what happens in the winter? Here are top tips and tricks to help you dry clothes indoors.

Invest in a drying rack ­ The most effective drying racks are stand­alone models or ones that can be mounted onto a wall. Set yours up in the brightest spot in the house. The ideal place for a drying rack is a room with big windows.

Take care with radiators ­ Avoid drying clothes on plug ­ in radiators where possible. This can create condensation in your home and stop the heat from getting into the room. Plug ­ in radiators can also make your clothes stiff and damage delicate fabrics.

Ventilation is key ­ Keep your home well­ventilated, this is the most important step to avoid clothes smelling bad, or having to wash them again. Space clothes out, using hangers to save space.

tones work well in winter, you can spice this up for the festive period with some red or gold to draw attention to particular areas.

2. Add festive decorations

Decorations are not just for indoors, they can bring the Christmas spirit into your outdoor space. Decorations don’t need to be dramatic, you can add tasteful touches like a wreath, or a festive bird feeder that your garden visitors can also enjoy.

3. Social space

Add a firepit or some outdoor heaters to your garden and you can enjoy it as a social space with friends all year.

Add some festive decorations to your garden to make the most of the season at home.

Photo credit: Natalia Greeske

Sally’sopinionsareherownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

DESTROYING OURSELVES

POLLUTION: We are not doing enough to address the problem.

GIANT windmills, electric vehicles, Stop Oil, Insulate Britain, Extinction Rebellion and Greta Thunberg all do their best, but are unable to address the real problem.

This is that our planet is overpopulated and pollution will increase as it grows, causing demand for new products which have to be manufactured to satisfy the populous.

Unfortunately we are inexorably destroying ourselves as we drift into oblivion.

Also we all know that the principal polluters are China, Russia, India and the USA, with Britain being a very minor contributor.

Merry Christmas to all, Brian Johnston, Benalmadena

Loving Leapy

Couldn’t have put things better myself. Well said.

Shirley Hunt

Not just for Christmas

After reading the article last week Pets are for Life, I am gobsmacked. It would be interesting to know out of the 80 per cent of children that ask for a pet for Christmas, how many actually get one. I mean what are parents thinking when they agree to buying a pet as a present, I understand that you don’t want your children to be disappointed at Christmas, but please first consider the massive amount of time, dedication and love any animal needs!!

Victoria Green

Stella job

I read the articles week in week out about the local councils winning awards for clean beaches or glass recycling, I just hope that the recognition is passed down to the men and women who work so hard day in, day out to keep our

streets and beaches clean. You do a stella job. G

The rain in Spain

Sick to death of hearing people complain about the rain and the cold weather, it has been around ­5 back in the UK and seems like it rains every other day. The resevoirs are filling up and in Spain we are blessed with over 300 days of sunshine a year. Give it a rest.

M Sinton

World Cup widow

Hate football, I usually find it totally underwhelming and boring. Thought I would be relegated to watch TV in the bedroom while the hubby watched the World Cup in the living room, this was true for the best part but wow did I enjoy the final. I found it thoroughly entertaining and a little nail biting as I always want the under dog to win. So pleased for Argentina.

Simon Thomas

Supporting the nurses

I am a resident in Benidorm but I just wanted to say how I support the nurses with the strike action in the UK. How they put their lives on the line through the pandemic is just commendable and that is what we should be doing now. Our clap of appreciation was a great gesture at the time, but now nurses need to know that they are supported. It is not just salary increases, why shouldn’t nurses get discounted petrol, hospital parking, free university tuition fees etc. It takes a certain type of person to be a nurse, not everyone is cut out for it, so for those who do make it surely the government should make it rewarding for them. These people save lives.

Harry Hunt

Letters should be emailed to yoursay@euroweeklynews.com or make your comments on our website: euroweeklynews.com

Views expressed and opinions given are not necessarily those of the EWN publishers. No responsibility is accepted for accuracy of information, errors, omissions or statements.

McConville

DAVID WORBOYS THINKING ALOUD

PRINCE WILLIAM’S godmother and ‘Ladyin­Waiting’ to the late Queen was forced to resign after repeatedly asking a Hackneyborn woman of African descent, Ngozi Fulani, where she came from. The way she grilled this invitee to a royal reception, demanding to know “where she really came from,” was at best ignorant and at worst racist.

However, if the Queen’s ‘Waitress’ had shown a genuine interest in Fulani’s history, she could simply have asked “In which country did your ancestors live?” ­ obviously, by leading up to it and not out of the blue. The way we say things is of paramount importance if we don’t wish to be misunderstood or to cause offence.

Often the misuse of words and expressions is downright clumsy. “Does your wife mind you taking me out for a drink?” she asked. “Not at all. But she probably would if you were more attractive.”

One of my favourite euphemisms was the one used by a barrister acting for a serial Peeping­Tom. “My client has an enquiring mind.” This emphasises how the choice of words or phrases can affect the reality of a situation. For example, so many Conser­

vative ministers blindly follow their former dishevelled leader, in saying “I’m very proud of our achievements …”, when their disastrous legacy is there for all to see. Why can’t they say “I’m ashamed of our record but we’ll try to do better?”

There are several ways of talking down to people. Those with a reasonable academic education may choose to use less common or even obscure alternative words in order

Christmassy camping

CAMPING is an unconventional choice during the Christmas holidays, so why not make the most of your unique experience by taking the festive spirit with you?

Today we’re sharing a few favourite tips on how you can take Christmas with you to the campsite.

Decorate!

You don’t need to go all out with a Christmas tree, but bringing a few bits of festive fun can make your trip even more memorable. Why not bring, or even make, a festive wreath to hang on your caravan or tent or decorate with some lights or seasonal foliage?

Bring gifts

If you’re spending your

family holiday on a campsite, you can make the most out of your family time by exchanging gifts while you’re away. If you can’t bring all of your presents, you could bring some little things to open or some delicious seasonal snacks.

Festive food and drinks

Take advantage of your outdoor cooking opportunity to put a unique twist on classic Christmas recipes. Try cooking your own pigs in blankets on the camping stove or roasting some chestnuts for bringing the ultimate Christmas scent onto your campsite.

Warm up in the evenings by brewing some mulled wine with red wine and festive spices on your stove.

to sound ‘superior’. Frequently, the word selected for effect is less appropriate than the everyday one. Examples are ‘attenuate’ (for diminish or weaken) and ‘asseverate’ (for affirm or confirm).

Those who have read 18th century classic literature may favour quaint expressions such as ‘forsooth!’. In its extreme it could produce ‘Henceforth methinks ‘tis perchance a solecism’. Even more pompous

are those who introduce Latin phrases into a conversation, no doubt to flaunt their privilege of a public school education. If it’s necessary for them to use phrases such as ‘ergo’ and ‘per se’, why don’t they try speaking in Italian?

When I was young the interrogative ‘f**k’ was taboo in most circles. Even ‘damn it; I’ve lost the blasted thing’ was too blasphemous for many people. In this situation, my father would say “confound it; I’ve lost the blooming thing.”

The irritating words “your call is important to us” and “we take this matter very seriously” are not just meaningless but extremely tactless in the context of poor service and gross negligence.

Finally, a couple more ripostes. “To be honest with you, I dont think you are up to it.” “Why would you want to be honest?” and “You have an outdated taste in clothes.” “Your flies are undone.” This latter works wonders ­ whether true or false.

CAMPING in cold weather has its own unique charm, once you get past the practical issues of staying warm and dry. Whether it’s your first camping experience in December, or you’re a winter camping pro, take a look at these tips to help you make the most of this special experience.

Choosing a pitch

During the winter, its best to choose a flat patch of land to pitch your tent on. This way you can avoid water pooling at your door. Sheltering your tent from the wind using natural or manmade barriers is also a smart choice to stop the wind in ­

Weather proof

CAMPING in the Sierra Nevada might not be the natural first choice for a December break, but there are plenty of reasons to spend some of your December holidays in this national park. Here we share some tips and tricks for the perfect winter camping trip in this stunning location.

Scenery

The Sierra Nevada is a truly magical destination at Christmas time. Snow­capped mountains are visible all around, with charming forests to explore at lower altitudes. The nearby city of Granada al­

terrupting your sleep. Staying dry

Getting soaked through is a guar­

anteed way to disrupt your camping trip, leaving everyone miserable. Take extra precautions on winter camping trips to ensure you stay dry. Camping experts say overpacking is a better option than running out of dry clothes, so bear this in mind packing your clothes. A few extra pairs of socks are well worth squeezing in to keep your feet dry.

Warming refreshments

Whip out your coffee maker for a winter camping trip. A hot coffee in the morning is the perfect motivation to get you out of bed. The caffeine content will also boost your energy levels on cold winter mornings.

Winter wonderland

so makes for an incredible December day trip.

Accommodation

The Sierra Nevada is a popular destination for tourists and

as such, offers a variety of different types of camping accommodation. At this time of year, camping in a tent can be difficult, due to heavy snow in

some parts of the national park. Fortunately, there are plenty of glamping experiences, as well as caravanning and lodge options, where you can sleep in luxury on wellequipped sites while still enjoying the great outdoors.

Activities

There’s also no shortage of activities to get involved with while camping here. Whether you want to take on hiking trails, relax in a natural spa or hit the slopes skiing, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained during a trip here.

The Sierra Nevada in Granada is an excellent destination for winter camping trips with plenty of active experiences to try.

David Worboys’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the

Seasonal sicknesses

WITH two years of the pandemic behind us, we’re used to taking steps to reduce our own risk of infection, particularly against seasonal sicknesses and colds, but how can we protect our pets? Today, we’re sharing some top tips to help keep your pet healthy during the winter.

Staying warm

Just like humans, cats and dogs feel the chill as the weather takes a turn for the worse. Take care not to cut your pet’s fur too short, it’s a necessary

form of protection against the elements. In some cases an extra

coat is appreciated, but take care not to let them overheat, our four­legged

Travel checklist

TRAVELLING is a crucial part of the Christmas period for many people, but it can sometimes be difficult when travelling with a furry friend. Today we share a checklist to help you prepare to travel with your pet, while keeping them safe and comfortable.

Pet friendly transport

This is a crucial first step. If you are travelling with a pet it’s important to make arrangements that are pet friendly. When booking train tickets, you can book a space for your dog. If travelling by plane, make sure to book a cabin place for cats or dogs or a place in the hold for other animals or larger dogs, if the airline allows it.

Legal requirements

Certain means of transport require particular documents when travelling with pets. Make sure you bring any certificates of vaccination and insurance that could be needed before leaving for a trip.

Comfort first

Travelling can be a scary experience for your pet, which can cause out ­ ofcharacter behaviour and anxiety. Help your pet by ensuring they have been fed and have enough water during your journey. If you get the chance to give your pet a short walk during your journey, take it. This can help to reduce anxiety. Taking a familiar toy or blanket can also help to calm nerves.

friends can’t regulate their body temperature in the same way we can.

Keep an extra eye on elderly pets, puppies and kittens as they can’t regulate their temperature so well.

General health

The best way to care for your pet’s health is to keep up a healthy routine and diet. Keep up daily exercise, but take extra care in cold or rainy weather. Visit your vet regularly, especially if you’re concerned about sickness.

Daily habits Observe your pet during the day. Are they spending more time in a warmer part of the house? If so, this could be a sign that you should move their bed to a warmer place.

Osteoarthritis in cats is more common than we think

DIAGNOSING osteoarthritis in cats is difficult even for experienced veterinarians because cats, unlike most dogs, can tolerate bone and joint problems.

Also exploration of cats is difficult because the veterinarian cannot observe his gait due to the fact they normally don’t move in the consultation room and sometimes cats do not allow their limbs to be felt. Commonly the lameness is not a clinical sign reported by the owners.

Weight loss, loss of appetite, depression, change in general attitude, poor grooming habits, urination or defecation outside the litter tray, and inability to jump on and off objects could be signs of pain in cats. X ­ rays are important. Forty per cent of cats have clinical signs of osteoarthritis, but only 13 per cent of affected cats are diagnosed.

Treatment options for cats with osteoarthritis are limited. Unfortunately, no veterinary NSAIDs are currently approved for safe, long­term control of osteoarthritis pain in cats.

Weight loss for overweight cats, increased exercise, and environmental accommodations, providing soft bedding helps. There is currently an injectable treatment based on monoclonal antibodies that relieves feline osteoarthritis pain for a month.

Jose Rial, veterinarian AVEPA Accredited Veterinarian in Traumatology and Orthopaedics.

In Costa Blanca Sur: www.resonanciaveterinaria.es Centro Veterinario de Diagnóstico por Imagen de Levante C/Los Arcos 23 Ciudad Quesada, Rojales. Tel: 609 779 109

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

POLICE/FIRE/AMBULANCE: 112 24 HOUR PHARMACY

FARMACIA ALICANTE - 965 910 220 FARMACIA PLAYA DEL CURA966 706 880

24 HOUR VETS HOSPITAL VETERINARIA SANT VICENTE965 668 582

Photo credit: Gladskikh Tatiana / shutterstock.com

STAYING WARM: Make sure your pet has a cosy place to sleep during the winter to avoid colds and seasonal respiratory problems.

J & J PAINTERS. Insideoutside - clean - fast - low cost. Torrevieja - Orihuela Costa and surrounding areas. Tel: 650 363 159 (294244)

MOBILE homes & static caravans bought, sold and transported. +34 630 055 418 or elsyd7@hotmail.com (294686)

Garcia 4 (Tel 965 704 282). We are online at www.helpvegabaja.com and also on Facebook. You can email the San Miguel Centre at office@helpvegabaja. com. We also have a 24-hour Emergency helpline which is available to both members and non-members on 966 723 733 (95456)

your nearest one at, http://branches.britishlegion.org. uk/branches/orihuela-costacovering from Punta Prima to San Javier. More info can be found on branch website www.orihuelacostarbl.co.uk. (95457)

060 171. Email martindroute66 @hotmail.com . Fiscal G54713789

PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS IS ALCOHOL COSTING YOU MORE THAN MONEY? Drinking to excess not only affects your health it can spill over into every other aspect of your life - damaging everything that is important to you. English-speaking AA meetings are held throughout the Costa Blanca from Valencia City to Murcia. Anyone wishing to attend a meeting or discuss a possible drinking problem contact Costa Blanca North: 648 169 045 or Costa Blanca South: 625 912 078 or Costa Calida 679 385 105 All calls are treated in the strictest confidence. AA in German: 645 456 075; Spanish: 679 212 535; Flemish: 635 047 053; and Scandinavian: 659 779 222. www.aa-costablanca.org (93323)

CAMPELLO CONTRA CANCER in conjunction with AECC Association Español Contra Cancer. Please support your local Cancer charity and if you wish to obtain literature or simply talk to someone. Please contact Mina or Trisha. Tel 650 071 278 or 610 921 413 e-mail aecc_campello@hot mail.com (95475)

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MABS) MURCIA/MAR MENOR Help and support is just a phone call away, Avda Rio Nalón, Tel: 693 275 779 (95462)

CHURCH SERVICE IN ENGLISH Tel: 950 617 549 www.giving light.com.(10006)

FREEMASONRY . Are you aware that Freemasonry is thriving on the Costa Blanca? There are various Lodges meeting up throughout the Valencia region. If you already are a Mason or simply wish to know more about Freemasonry in Spain please contact sec@glpvalencia. com Tel 600 841 064 (95477)

HELP VEGA BAJA. We are a non-profit making organisation that helps and supports anyone, without prejudice, in times of need or crisis within the Vega Baja area. Our offices are based in San Miguel at Calle Lope de Vega 46 (Tel 966 723 733), Torrevieja at Rambla Juan Mateo

INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY, TORREVIEJA Calle Beniajan 16, Torrevieja 03185, Alicante Evangelical non-denominational church. Sunday morning Services at 11.00am. All nationalities welcome - Contact 966 752 543 / 966 799 273. For other church matters phone: 966 799 273 / /617 215 463 www.icatorrevieja.org (95476)

LA SIESTA EVANGELICAL CHURCH on Urbanisation La Siesta, Torrevieja is a friendly, English-speaking church. For more information, including details of our services, see our website www.lasiestaevangeli calchurch.org (10005)

PHILIP SCOTT LODGE No 10671 of the RAOB. Please call the secretary, Colin Bird on 693 287 614 for further information. (95459)

PILAR CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY CHURCH. All welcome from any church background or none. For further information, www.pi larchurch.org Reg No: 2009SG/A (95463)

ROYAL Air Force Association Costa Blanca Registered Members Group: The RAFA Costa Blanca RMG replaces the RAFA Costa Blanca Branch 1359 which is now closed. The RMG is a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Association. Contact with the Royal Air Force Association and the RMG can be made via the RAFA website rafa.org. uk . Tel:0044 800 018 2361. (238593)

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION - Why not make this year the year you volunteer? See how you can help either as a caseworker (with full training) or as a Telephone Buddy. We also visit beneficiaries who are housebound or in hospital. If you feel you could support us here in Spain, and you have a Spanish phone number then why not email us for more info tbuddyhhvisits@gmail.com. If you or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us using the details on the card, we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control. It can be a personal need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly, just call and have a chat with Pam who will try to guide you to where you need to be. If you would like to go to a branch meeting then find

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Gran Alacant & La Marina Branch. For info, contact the branch Secretary at granalacant.secretary @rbl.community

ROYAL MARINES ASSOCIATION (Costa Blanca) The aim of the Association is to bring together not just ex Royal Marines, but ex Service personnel with an affinity to the Royal Marines. For further details contact Hon Sec P S Wilkins Tel: 966 194 158 email: inkinspain@yahoo.co.uk (10004)

ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION

For information please contact Chairman Anthony Jenkins +34 693 866 709, Vice Chairman Dusty Miller +34 711 006 670, Secretary Mike Cockman +34 670 224 822, Treasurer Carl Louden +34 678 518 202, email rnatorrevieja@aol.com (95455)

STROKE ASSOCIATION Spain (formally known as Torrevieja stroke support) Our aim is to help and support stroke survivors and their carers, with rehabilitation, speech therapy, OC therapy and a very active social group. For info please contact 653 588 475 English and 620 907 474 Spanish or email stroke supportgroup@hotmail.com , website: torreviejastrokesupport.org. We are always looking for volunteers who have the skills and knowledge to support. (95473)

THE AIRCREW ASSOCIATION COSTA BLANCA BRANCH. Former & serving aircrews of the UK or Allied Armed Forces are welcome to join this convivial & friendly organisation, now in its 21st year. www.acacostablan ca.org or call the Secretary on: 966 495 042 (95465)

THE ANGLICAN CHURCH, La Fustera. For more info: contact Frank Bentley on 966 495 188. (95461)

THE BAKER Foundation Spiritual Centre Playa Flamenca. Calle Luis Gordillo, 1 Playa Flamenca Alicante 03189. You can join us on Facebook, The Baker Foundation spiritual centre. Or contact Linda Schug Tel. 606 990 665 for more details (95458)

THE PATIENCE LODGE No 2177 of the R.A.O.B Please call Secretary Dave Tonge on 688 704 091 for further information. (253807)

THE SPIRITUALIST CENTRE, Benijofar meets at Hamilton’s Bake House, 62 Calle Vicente, Blasco Ibañez, Benijofar 03178. We hold a Sunday Sevrice at 11.30am. For further information: www.spiritualistcentrebenijofar.com. Telephone 711

MOVERS AND SHAKERS We are a non-profit organisation that supports people and their families with neurological diseases such as; HUNTINGTON’S, ATAXIA, MOTOR NEURONE, MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS and PARKINSON’S. Our MOVERS AND SHAKERS CLUB held every Friday @ 1pm – 3pm, is a chance for members to meet up socially, for a drink and a chat on a full range of topics and to exchange ideas and information. The club is held at O’Briens Bar in El Raso, Guardamar del Segura (except July and August). For more details, contact Marion Smith on 711 008 250, or email: marion.smith@amscb.org.es, or you can find us on Facebook : fb@movers and shakers www.amscb.org.es (295976)

BENEFICIAL INSURANCE SERVICES. Car, Home, Business, Travel, Life, Funeral, all insurances available. Policies in English. BEST rates, covers & service. Immediate quotes. Tel 961 129 215 / 622 275 561, (WhatsApp) info@beneficialinsuran ceinspain.com or visit www.ben eficialinsuranceinspain.com for online quote. (301438)

STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www.abbeygateinsure .com

MR FIXIT. For all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance & boiler repairs. No call out charge. 698 320 434 (290288)

WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

FRENCH, ELÉGANTE, slim, Sophie, 3 languages spoken. Experienced in a large variety of full body massages. Villamartin apartment or can travel to all areas. 693 357 526 (295405)

EXPERIENCE the best with a 1hr unique massage with Veronica. Shaving or permanent hair removal available. For appointments call 679 292 678 (295446)

CLASSIC SPANISH LADY , Playa Flamenca area, private premises, all massage services from 40€. Ana 657 603 495 (302126)

ATTRACTIVE, Girlfriend, Professional Masseuse relaxing and therapeutic Masseuse. Tel: 693 357 526 (295448)

PERSONAL TRAINER, WEIGHT LOSS, TONING, RESULTS GUARANTEED. CERTIFIED WITH 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE. FORMER US KICKBOX CHAMPION. CALL 747 438 225 (301319)

RELAXING MASSAGE FOR MEN - Mario qualified masseur in Alicante - Special Massage for Men - 7 days 10am to 10pm - APPOINTMENTS visit: www.masajeyre lax.es/en or WHATSAPP 649 761 607 (302343)

MELISSA MASSEUR – 27 latín masseur in La Zenia. Close to Zenia bulevard tel. 655 590 001 (302570)

BATHROOM & KITCHEN Conversions Costa Blanca, contact 698 320 434. (293206)

FED UP OF NOT BEING SENT YOUR RENEWAL? CUT YOUR INSURANCE COSTS AND STILL HAVE 100% COVER. YOU HAVE TRIED THE REST NOW TRY THE BEST WITH SOS INSURANCE. WE CAN EVEN INSURE YOU FOR UP TO A €1,000 OF WATERLOSS. CALL 686 116 297 (WHATSAPP TO) OR VISIT www.sosinsuranceinspain. com or email tracey@sosin suranceinspain.com (302024)

MISUKY - ASIEN QUALIFIED MASSEUSSE. STRONG RELAXING MASSAGE. PRIVATE. CAMPOAMOR 663 088 170 (302570)

GOLD & SILVER Bought & Sold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

MOTORING

INTERNATIONAL SKIPPER LICENCE: Courses held in English and starts soon. RYA VHF and Radar Courses. 636 444 929 (301483)

or sales@easyhorsecare.net www.easyhorsecare.net or call Sue 652 021 980 (95706)

GATAMI ORGANISATION, to help kittens and cats, looking for good homes, also spaying wild cats in the community. Kittens require adoption, fully vaccinated, de-wormed, de-flead. volunteers to Tel Anna: 966 806 976 / 654 729 977 (95709)

WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)

KAMAGRA Gold 100mg plus Kamagra Jellies. Collection or Delivery. ROY HAS A NEW TEL. - 613 584 915 (295447) tp

Male/Female viagra, cialis, kamagra jelly, mixed trial packs available, all areas mail order. 604 385 476. viagra4you19@gmail.com

P.E.P.A. VOLUNTEERS & FOSTER HOMES URGENTLY NEEDED. By fostering an abandoned dog or spending a few hours each week on our telephone helpline, you could help save the lives of many animals. Please call: 650 304 746. For more information browse our website: www.pepaspain.com (95708)

MOTORHOME / Campervan wanted. Left or right hand drive. Cash waiting for right van. Tlf 650 722 905

TAILOR-MADE in durable canvas, pergola covers, sails, umbrella, spa and CAR COVERS. 10% off Cushions. Mazarron to Costa Blanca. RETIRING SOON DON’T MISS OUT Google: KrugerCanopies.com WhatsApp: 667 879 399 kruger canopies@yahoo.co.uk (293646)

SPAMA GANDIA SHELTER. Dog and cat rescue registered charity, La Safor area. 500 animals awaiting rehoming. Phone Gail 962 896 118. Visit our website for directions. www.spama.org and view our new blog at www.spama-safor.blog.com.es PLEASE HELP US TO HELP THEM (95707)

PIANO, Keyboard, Organ, Qualified Teacher. Please call 606 984 535 (294805)

EASYHORSE CARE RESCUE CENTRE. We aim to rescue HORSES. If you would like to DONATE please call 965 967 033

MR FIXIT. For all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance & boiler repairs. No call out charge. 698 320 434 (290288)

POOL MAINTENANCE Repairs, Spares and Leak Testing. Call 965 725 565 / 676 945 360 www.pooltechspain.com (289653)

POOL MAINTENANCE PROPERTY FOR RENT

ORIHUELA COSTA Long Term Rent - Villa. Chalet on a 1,000m2 plot & House 250m2 - 4 bed, 3 baths. Private garden, Private pool, Garage. Only 3 minutes walk to the beach and close to shops, restaurants and Golf Course. For more information email carobrlo@yahoo.es (392460)

REMOVALS

MAN & VAN. Removals, deliveries, house clearance, etc. Reliable service. Contact 613 599 008 (302176)

Volvo V60 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid

ROAD TEST

byMarkSlack

VOLVO’S high ­ tech march towards electrification includes mild ­ hybrid and plug­in hybrid that offer a more practical solution to those who currently find pure electric isn’t for them. For those that want it there are also an increasing number of all tric Volvos.

The V60 is Volvo’s mid­size estate and despite the popularity of SUVs, Volvo estates are still in demand, and for good reason. Forget any sign of utility because although these are load carriers (not in the same league as the square box Volvos of old, but still pretty good) they are also packed with luxurious touches.

Standard fare across all models are such things as auto­dimming mirrors, auto lights, high beam assist, auto wipers, keyless start, cruise, electric and power­folding door mirrors, leather, heated front seats with electric adjustment and lumbar support, heated wiper blades, dual ­ zone climate control

and as you would expect from Volvo there is a plethora of standard safety kit.

Prices start from €47,467 (£41,330) and my test model was the T6 AWD Plus €58,499 (£50,935). Power comes from a 2.0­litre fourcylinder unit mated to an eight­speed automatic gearbox and all­wheel­drive for

any kind of weather. With added electric power the V60 propels its rather large frame to the benchmark 100 kph (62 mph) in just 5.2 seconds and a maximum of 112 mph.

Gear changes are smooth, the refinement is excellent and the V60 has an air of unruffled calm even when doing 112 kph (70 mph UK limit) on a motorway. It’s one of those cars that you feel could take you from one end of the country to the other and you would emerge with no aches or feeling in any way jaded.

In pure electric mode, the Volvo can take you 87 kms (54 miles) so enough for a

Facts at a Glance

•

• Engine: Petrol electric hybrid - 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol

• Gears: 8-speed automatic

• Performance: 0-100 kmh (62 mph) 5.2 seconds/Maximum Speed 180 kph (112 mph)

• Economy: 0.8l/100km (353.1 mpg) WLTP

• Electric only range: 87 km (54 miles)

• Emissions: 18 g/km WLTP

commute, but whether you’re running a pure EV or a hybrid you really do need a home charging point to make EVs a practical proposition. If you opt for a plug­in version of the V60 then you can charge it from 0 to 100 per cent off a home charger in five hours, less if you find a fast charger.

The interior is modern and minimalist but at the same time has a look and feel of a luxury car rather than a premium one. It’s an object lesson in how light interiors can look so classy, yet remain practical.

In case you haven’t already gathered, I liked the V60, I liked it a lot!

VOLVO V60: In demand and for very good reason.

Motoring accessories

THE first ice and snow of the season arrived to mountainous regions of Spain a few weeks ago, but in the last week, the cold weather has begun to bite elsewhere.

Today we bring you three essential accessories that every motorist needs this winter season, especially if you’re headed to a mountainous area.

Windscreen scraper with brush

This tool is your best friend for removing ice from your windscreen over the winter, choose a double ended tool with a wide scraper for ice on one end and a brush for frost on the other.

It might take some patience, but a durable scraper with a frost brush is much more effective than quick remedies like pouring hot water on your windscreen which damages the glass and leads to

long­term woes.

Antifreeze

Having this liquid in your car can save you in a pinch. Antifreeze helps your car’s engine to regulate itself in extreme temperatures and is a must during the winter.

Windshield cover We tend to associate

windshield covers with the summer, when we want to keep our cars out of direct sunlight, but they are also a valuable piece of kit during the winter.

Windshield covers act as a blanket for our cars, protecting them from the worst of the weather, and saving you a job.

THE motoring industry is undergoing some major changes, most notably with the transition to renewable energy sources to power cars. More new models than ever are hitting the market, but that also means that some older models are being retired. Today we take a look at some of the cars which are set to disappear from the market in 2023.

Ford Fiesta ST

This popular model from the American brand is set to cease production in June 2023, ending a 47year legacy with eight generations. The end of production for the model is said to be due to increasing demand for SUV style models and the brand’s commitment to becoming all ­ electric by 2030.

Audi R8

This sleek vehicle which is available in coupe and convertible models will be discontinued at the end of 2023. Car fanatics will still have a chance to enjoy the model with a special edition GT. The brand is

To the scrapyard

thought to be working on an electric successor, but a release date is not yet in sight.

Volkswagen Passat

Another notable model that will reach the end of the production line for the

last time in 2023 is the Volkswagen Passat. The sedan has been expected to come off the market for several years due to increased popularity of other Volkswagen models including the Tiguan.

Photo credit: Krasula / shutterstock.com

ANTIFREEZE : An essential piece of motoring kit for wherever you’re travelling over the winter.

Position untenable

BERNARD LAPORTE, the World Rugby vice­president and France rugby president has been convicted by a French court for corruption and has been given a two­year suspended prison sentence.

Laporte, who said on Wednesday, December 14 that he intends to appeal his conviction, remains president of the French Rugby Federation.

Montpellier owner Mohed Altrad was also given an 18month suspended sentence and fined along with Laporte. The two were found guilty of an illegal conflict of interests, influence peddling and four instances of passive corruption.

Many have called on Laporte to step away from rugby just nine months before France is due to hold the 2023 World Cup. They say his position is untenable, however, his appeal could take as long as 2024 to be heard which means that he is unlikely to step down.

Following the news of the conviction, New Zealand rugby instigated an investigation into the sponsorship deal they have with French construction company Altrad. The insinuation is that Laporte had a hand in the deal.

Neil Hallet, the former All Black, has been asked as an expoliceman to investigate the case and to report his findings. Hallett, a former detective inspector in the New Zealand police, is expected to report before the end of January.

Sir Bill Beaumont, the World Rugby chairman, will take on Laporte’s committee duties whilst the investigation takes place.

The timing could not be worse with ongoing investigations into Qatar and the bribery of European Union MEPs and FIFA officials.

World Cup winners

FOR the first time since 1986, Ar gentina are the world champions in football. After a pulsating match in Doha’s Lusail Stadium, in which the 2022 Qatar World Cup final went to penalties, the South Americans won on penalties.

Inspired by their enigmatic captain Lionel Messi, the game looked to be all over until France made an incredi ble comeback in the closing stages of the main 90 minutes. Their talisman, Kylian Mbappe proved why he is the successor to Messi’s title as one of the best players on the planet when he notched a hat trick. After extra time and with the score 3 ­ 3, it was time for the dreaded penalty shoot out, this being only the third time that a World Cup final had been de cided by penalties, the two previous finals being in 1994 and 2006.

Argentina beat France 4­2 to take the title and many will say it is a fit ting end for Lionel Messi, finally lift ing the one trophy that had been missing from his incredible haul during his glittering career as it draws to

a close. The Argentinian government declared Tuesday December 20 a Na ­

tional Bank holiday so that the whole country could celebrate their sporting heroes return.

Credit: EWN