Costa de Almeria 2 – 8 February 2023 Issue 1961

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Issue No. 1961 2 - 8 February 2023 COSTA DE ALMERIA • EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM

BOWLING FOR A CURE

Betty Henderson

BOWLERS in Arboleas will take to the lanes at Bowlera bowling alley on Sunday, February 12 for a special fundraising event, raising money and awareness about prostate cancer.

The event will kick off with musical entertainment from Almeria Radio 107.5 from 10.30am before the bowling gets underway from 11am. Bowlers in teams of two or three will battle it out during three heats beginning at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

Trophies will be up for grabs for winning bowlers and teams, and there will also be a raffle boasting some amazing prizes to be won.

Entry for the event costs €15 for league bowlers to play three games or €10 for public bowlers to play two games. All proceeds from entry fees and the raffle will be split between two prostate cancer charities.

One third of the money raised will be donated to Prostate Cancer Research Madrid and two thirds of money raised will go to UK Cancer Research via a runner in the London Marathon.

RAISING FUNDS: To be split between two prostate cancer charities.

To enter, bowlers can speak to a member of staff at the bowling alley,

or send an email to: admin@amigos bowlingleagues.co.uk.

FREE • GRATIS

A dream lineup

THE final tickets for the third release have gone on sale for Dreambeach festival, one of Almería’s biggest music festivals which is set to take place for five days of sunshine and hot hits in Cuevas del Almanzora from Wednesday, August 9.

Festival organisers launched the festival line­up at FITUR tourism fair two weeks ago on Friday, January 20 and tickets began to fly off the shelves! Granada fusion artist Dellafuente is set to headline the festival alongside top electro DJs Loco Dice and Deborah De Luca. Other top electro and house musicians recently announced to perform at the ninth edition of the festival this summer include Hybrid Minds, Whipped Cream, and Shlømo. This year’s festival is also set to feature another stage and space for more than 25,000 revellers to camp overnight. Tickets from: https://www.dreambeach.es.

Photo credit: shutterstock.com

A boost for licence holders

SPEAKING exclusively to the Euro Weekly News at an event held by the British Chamber of Commerce in Spain on Tuesday, January 24, British Ambassador to Spain Hugh Elliott said that the next announcement from the embassy on driving licences will be to set the date when a new agreement will come into place.

The British and Spanish governments have been in negotiations over whether UK nationals living in Spain can exchange their driving licences after Brexit or have to take a test like other third party nationals since the of 2020.

Hopes of reaching a swift agreement initially saw extensions on an agreement to allow Britons to carry on using their UK licences in Spain while an agreement was

hashed out.

In 2022 though, these extensions came to an end and the two governments have been negotiating ever since; a source of much difficulty for many expats who been left without the ability to drive in the meantime.

Blazing Bandidos

Now, Hugh Elliott has told the EWN that his most recent meetings with the Foreign Ministry took place on Tuesday, January 24, and that a date from which UK nationals will be able to exchange their UK licences for a Spanish one will be announced in the following weeks.

He told the EWN: “I’ve been talking only today to the Foreign Ministry about driving licences. The next announcement will be the date.

“Right now we are in the final stages.

“I can’t claim that I am as keen to get this through as those who have been unable to drive during negotiations because I haven’t been affected by this in the same way as them, but I am super keen to get over the line, in force, and to allow Brits to drive again.”

LOS BANDIDOS Athletics Club got off to a running start for the new athletics season with two trophies and plenty of excellent times at the 12th Carrera Popular Espartanos del Alquián race on Sunday, January 22.

Running fanatics braved biting coastal winds on the day, with Los Bandidos entering each of the three race disciplines, one mile, five kilometres and 10 kilometres. The races covered challenging mountainous terrain on trails and sand tracks.

Despite many of the club’s runners calling last year’s event the hardest race they had ever done, many were back for seconds, with the club entering a total of 14 runners on the day.

Gail Colville and Akvile Lisauskaite both picked up trophies in the 10 kilometre race, with five other finishers all posting great times under one hour. In the five kilometre race, top finisher for the club, Jan Murton came in 36th place in a field of 141 runners.

Pension package

THE national government announced a new package of support to cover pensions in Almeria. The Spanish Treasury will pay €120 million in pensions contributions for residents in the area.

The Spanish government announced the policy at a press conference held on Wednesday, January 25, saying that it will provide almost 10 per cent of the region’s GDP through the scheme.

The move has been introduced to match workers’ contributions to their pensions which now stand at 8.5 per cent for contributory pensions and 15 per cent for noncontributory pensions.

Regional government representative, José María Martín explained that the government is committed to supporting Almeria’s nearly 118,000 pensioners with the scheme. The support will also maintain the value of existing pensions, meaning that pensioners will retain their purchasing power.

Martín added “At times like this, with high inflation and huge international uncertainty, we have to guarantee the value of pensions for retired people who do not have the means to react to increasing inflation.”

The group was set up in 2018 to run in the Mojacar area and welcomes running lovers of all ages, nationalities, backgrounds, whether residents or visitors. Their Facebook page is: https://www.facebook.co m/groups/4909334092442 00.

Marvellous Mojacar

FOLLOWING the great interest in Mojacar at the International Tourism Fair in Madrid, FITUR 2023, Mojacar travelled to Belgium to attend one of the most important bicycle tourism fairs in Europe. The councillor for Tourism, Emmanuel Aguero, met again with numerous Belgian, national and international clients and companies related to the sector, many of whom had already travelled to Mojacar before the pandemic. There was a great deal of interest in the dates and hotels available, with the intention of re­establishing the trips and tourist packages which had been interrupted by the pandemic.

As a result of these contacts, professional relations have been reopened and next winter the support of this sector will be a reality in the plans of the town council to break with seasonality and offer tourist and economic stability throughout the year.

Mojacar has a hotel industry specialised in this segment of tourism, and with professionally trained agents for the resurgence of sports tourism with guarantees.

Thanks to its climate, facilities, landscape and entrepreneurs, it is undoubtedly a consolidated ‘cycling destination’ in Europe.

Hugh Elliott in Madrid.

Credit: British Chamber of Commerce.

Property prices

LATEST data from national property platform Idealista found that homes in Andalucia increased in price by an average of 5.7 per cent. Almeria however, remains one of the cheapest places to buy property, increasing by just 2.2 per cent.

Explosive find

GUARDIA CIVIL police forces acted quickly to destroy ammunition and explosive devices including two grenades that were discovered in a private address in Fondon. The ammunition and weapons appeared to be historical artifacts, but could still have posed a threat.

Great city

MORE than 50 per cent of Almeria City’s population said that the state of the city is ‘great’ in a communitywide survey conducted in January. Street cleaning and public transport were listed as the biggest areas for improvement by residents.

Jurassic dream

THE world’s largest travelling dinosaur exhibition arrives in Almeria this weekend on Saturday, February 4. Some 30 interactive and in some cases life ­ size dinosaur models make up the incredible collection which has toured more than a dozen countries.

Rail recovery

AFTER cutting back on services due to the pandemic, Renfe, the national train operator, will resume four daily train services between Almeria and Granada. The popular services will return to timetables earlier in the morning and later in the evening.

Cycling classic

THE Clásica de Almeria cycling race will see a total of nine world tour elite teams line up on the start line alongside another 12 professional and amateur teams. The race, covering 190 kilometres, is a key pre­season challenge date.

Betty Henderson VERA is warming up to hold the MAPFRE National Beach Tennis Championships this summer. The championships will return to the town from Friday, May 26 and again from Friday, June 30 for two weekends of competitive fun.

Announcing the news on Monday, January 30, the council congratulated Indalo Beach Tennis club for projecting the town into the international sports sphere.

This year will be the 21st edition of the event and its fourth in Vera, which brings

Tennis trophy

Vera is set to be in the sporting spotlight once again by hosting the MAPRE National Beach Tennis Championships in May.

elite level national beach tennis players to the town for the championship, and to enjoy the summer weather

PUBLIC transport in Almeria just got cheaper with a ticket discount scheme that came into effect on Tuesday, January 31. The discounted ticket prices now apply to seasonal bus passes on Alsa­Surbus services in the city.

The discounted ticket scheme brings the city in line with national regulations, introduced at the end of last year, which aim to encourage public transport use and reduce emis­

in surrounding areas. This year’s event will be spread across two weekends with the singles and doubles

Bus bonus

sions from car journeys. City sustainability spokesperson, Ana Martínez Labella, highlighted Almeria’s commitment to sustainable mobility and public transport during a press conference on Friday, January 28.

As part of the scheme, multi­journey and monthly bus passes have been discounted to 50 per cent of

Almeria leads

ALMERIA leads the food and beverage sales to France, with €505 million, 31 per cent of the total and an increase of 12.5 per cent over the same period last year, the third highest in this period.

Almeria is followed by Sevilla, with €403 million in sales which is 24.6 per cent and an increase of 41 per cent, the highest growth of all provinces. In the third spot is Malaga with €280 million in sales which is 17.1 per cent and a decrease of 4.4 per cent.

Extenda reports indicate that France is the second most important export destination for Andalucian food products, but it is a highly saturated and demanding market where product presentation and quality are particularly important.

On the other hand, variables such as the demand for ecological products, vegetable proteins and recyclable packaging have to be taken into account.

In addition, French consumers are demanding greater transparency in the labelling of products to show aspects such as the environmental impact of their manufacture and use.

events taking place from Friday, May 26 until Sunday, May 28 before the youth and veteran disciplines one month later from Friday, May 30 until Sunday, June 2.

The stakes are high for this year’s competition with the first prize increasing to a whopping €4,000.

The competition is a crucial date on the national tennis calendar and is sponsored by the Real Federación Española de Tenis.

their original cost. Monthly bus passes now cost €16.30, while 10­journey passes will cost just €3.70. Student and pensioner fares have also been discounted to give better value for money.

Public transport users that have purchased monthly or season passes since the beginning of January are also eligible for a refund with a claims period opening on Thursday, February 16.

Renters’ respite

PROPERTY renters in the old town of Almeria are set to get a much­needed boost with a cut in the IBI property tax announced by the city council on Tuesday, January 24.

The IBI tax could be reduced by 50 per cent if approved by the council’s Board of Directors at the end of this week. This year’s scheme would also apply to an extended area in the city centre, targeting areas with empty properties currently.

The decision was announced by the council’s Almeria XXI project, whose CEO, Ana Martínez Labella explained, “This tax incentive aims to increase the amount of rental properties available on the market and encourage property owners to put their properties up for rent, particularly in the historic old town

Pedal power

WOMEN cyclists rolled out from Nijar on Sunday, January 29 for the Women Cycling Pro Costa de Almeria elite race. Italian cyclist, Adrianna Fidanza raced to victory over the 135 kilometre race which is a key date on the women’s international cycling calendar.

Councillors from Nijar cut the ribbon at the start line in Campohermoso, where 128 women cyclists from 16 teams from all over the world lined up for the race. The race kicked off the international cycling body, UCI’s sporting calendar for 2023.

Sunday’s race traversed some of the most scenic parts of the Almerian countryside, past olive groves and agricultural fields as well as craggy mountains with idyllic coastal views, before arriving at the finish line in Cuevas del Almanzora.

where we want to continue attracting residents.”

Tenants claiming the tax discount will need to prove their economic situation and if approved could be eligible for tax relief of up to €500. The scheme applies to renters aged between 18 and 45 years old.

There was an electric atmosphere alongside many of the roads in the province as spectators lined the pavements to cheer on competitors.

The race ended with an exhilarating sprint which was won by Fidanza who came out on top in a breakaway group of 20 cyclists.

FOOD SALES: France is important export destination.

IN 2021, the Euro Weekly News reported that residents in Partaloa’s Piedra Amarilla district were fighting plans for a neighbouring chicken farm. They feared they would be living in close proximity to an installation raising 35,000 broilers at a time and Stephen Tucker, our Partaloa contact, recently got in touch with us

Partaloa victory

again. “We won!” he exclaimed. “It has been a long road, but despite Partaloa Town Hall plenary session’s 4­2 vote in favour of this chicken farm, the existing laws were finally bolstered by a new regulation,” Stephen said.

“That means the factory cannot be built.” As a member of the Eastern Partaloa Residents Association (EPRA), he passed on an announcement from the group. This explained that the Official Provincial Bulletin (BOP) dated January 12 this year, and published by the Almeria Diputacion, detailed additional regulations covering new activities involving livestock. Supporting existing legislation in Andalucia, they came into force 15 days later and limited building broiler houses within 1km of existing homes and invalidated the Piedra Amarilla plans. “I trust that our news will encourage others to fight back when invaded by livestock activity close to their homes,” Stephen said.

Curiosity killed the cat

PAWS-PATAS animal shelter has bounded into 2023 with excellent news from adopted shelter animals who have enjoyed warm welcomes and plenty of love as they settle into their new homes, bringing joy to new owners. The shelter still has plenty of animals up for adoption, which can be viewed online at: www.paws­patas.org as well as by making a visit to the shelter which is located between Los Gallardos and Turre, near to Vera. Paws­Patas are searching for new volunteers to help

Paw-sitive start

cats are continually brought to the shelter and as they work tirelessly to improve their lives and find their forever homes, volunteers are needed to support them in this work.

out at the shelter. Accommodation is available for volunteers if required. Dogs and

The shelter is also organising a whole host of fundraising events throughout the year including a Spring Fete on Sunday, April 16. For more information or to book a stall get in touch by email: claire@paws­patas.org.

ALMERIA prepares for a bumper programme of international film screenings with the return of a popular cinema club.

Cineclub Almeria’s season is running until Friday, March 31, with the club screening a different film at the Teatro Apolo in Almeria city centre every Friday. The club have curated a wide variety of international films.

The complete programme is as follows:

Thursday, February 2Un año, una noche, Spanish.

Thursday, February 9Tori et Lokita, French (Belgian).

Thursday, February 16 ­ EO, Polish.

Friday, February 24Compartment nº6, Finnish Tickets for each film screening cost €4.50 and can be purchased from the cinema’s box office at: https://almeriacul turaentradas.es/. Times at 6.30pm and 8.30pm.

Photo credit: Paws-Patas (Via email)

This proverb is used to tell people to mind their own business and to stop asking questions that don’t concern them. The earliest reference was in 1958 in a play, Every Man in his Humour, that was written by Ben Johnson and adapted to by William Shakespeare

Supporting Paws-Patas enables the group to continue with their life-saving work, helping abandoned pets to find new, loving homes.

Movie mania

A LOCAL news source reported on Saturday, January 28 that Irene Montero, the Minister of Equality, had bowed to public pressure and would bring forward changes.

The ruling coalition’s majority partner had said they would force through the change if the minister would not act, fearing that

‘Only yes is yes’ law

it would hurt them in this year’s elections. The socialist party which had managed to put through one of the greatest protections of women in the country had

been battered as a result of the law’s shortcomings.

Although the law is to be tweaked judges will continue to have the final say on sentences and the changes may not be enough to stop the increasing number of sentence reductions.

The law reduces the number of criminal conviction types associated with sexual assault in line with the Istanbul convention and that is what has resulted in sentence reductions.

In memorium

ON Holocaust Memorial Day on Friday, January, 27, Spain’s government made its commitment to the victims of the global tragedy by committing to a new plan against antisemitism

Switch off

UK’s National Grid has launched a new Demand Flexibility Service (DFS) whereby citizens can get paid to switch off electrical items during peak hours.

If you have a smart meter and your energy supplier offers the service, then you’ll be able to sign up. If you do sign up for the DFS scheme, you will need to authorise your provider to access your smart meter so they can read your data every half ­ hour between the peak hours. The scheme is planned to remain in force until the end of March. Users of the scheme will get an alert the day before telling them what window they need to reduce energy use, for example, 4.00pm until 6.00pm.

in Spain.

The government arranged a vote on new legislation promising to continue fighting against antisemitism which was held on Tuesday, January 31. The plan was announced at an official memorial ceremony by minister, Félix Bolaños, who explained that authorities have been working on it for months.

The plan will implement the European Union’s ‘Europe without Antisemitism’ strategy which was created in October 2021. Europe’s plan has the objective of fighting instances of antisemitism with strong repercussions and creating more

inclusive communities across the continent.

Spain’s plan pledges to increase resources and funding for fighting antisemitism and encourage inclusive communities where Jewish communities in Spain can practice their faith and traditional beliefs freely without the threat of discrimination or violence.

During the event, members of the Spanish government heard stories from survivors at concentration camps, remembered victims from Jewish and Traveller communities, and vowed to protect the rights of all people who face discrimination.

Meanwhile, in Spain, the government confirmed it would extend the measures established throughout 2022 to continue to tackle the price increases caused by the war in Ukraine and to protect consumers so they have guaranteed access to electricity, gas and water. Meaning the reduction of the special tax on electricity to 0.5 per cent and the suspension of the tax on the value of electricity production, which has an impact on electricity bills.

Vulnerable consumers can also benefit from a discount on their bill called bono social, which can be requested by telephone, e­mail, ordinary mail or fax from one of the reference suppliers, who are obliged to offer and finance it.

Pick up a property

THE latest report by property platform, Idealista has revealed the cheapest place to buy property. The town of Alcaudete de la Jara, near to Toledo offers the most affordable property in the country according to the research published on Tuesday, January 24.

The town, located in the autonomous region of Castilla-La-Mancha, boasts the lowest average house prices in the country, costing just €329 per metre squared.

The town is located just under 150 kilometres south-west of Madrid and with just 1,700 residents, it makes the perfect escape from the urban jungle,

with a sleepy traditional lifestyle. The town has a rich cultural history on the edge of the Moorish empire and has fascinating architecture.

Several of the other cheapest towns to buy property in are also located in Castilla-La-Mancha, followed by two towns in Cordoba Province.

The report also published data on the most expensive places to rent property, perhaps unsurprisingly placing Barcelona at the top end of the scale, where property costs an average of €19.35 per metre squared, followed by Madrid at €16.38 per metre squared.

At the moment there is no indication of what changes may be made to the law,

as it is understood substantial more work is needed to understand the issue.

BRINGING CHANGES: The law is to be tweaked.

Image Rommel Canlas / Shutterstock.com

Vueling strike called off

SPANISH airline Vueling and its crew are to return to the negotiating table after three months of strike action that started on November 1, 2022.

The cabin crew union STAVLA said on Saturday, January 28 that the strikes which affected Friday, Sunday and Monday travel would be ended with both parties having agreed to resume talks.

In making the announcement STAVLA reminded everyone that it

had said at the outset that it would continue with strike action as long as was necessary to achieve a new collective agreement.

STAVLA had been calling for a 13.4 per cent increase rising to 33 per cent by 2025. But the company had said was not financially possible and had instead given crew registered with the CC.OO a 6.5 per cent increase, which they said was in line with the infla ­

SPAIN and Slovakia are determined to strengthen relations in areas such as sustainable mobility and tourism.

Spain’s Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Reyes Maroto, travelled to the Slovak Republic to promote new investments linked to the manufacture of batteries needed to boost the new electric and connected mobility.

Slovakia is one of Europe’s major car manufacturing centres, employing over 200,000 people, with Volkswagen, KIA, Land Rover and Volvo among the brands that have factories in

tion rate.

Impact on customers has always been limited given the requirement to operate minimum services, instead resulting in the loss of cabin service on affected flights. Where flights could be cancelled passengers were moved to alternate days, given credits or rebooked on other airlines.

The two parties are hopeful that an agreement can be reached by March.

Spain and Slovakia

the country.

The Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Reyes Maroto, confirmed: “With this visit, we want to reinforce the government of Spain’s commitment to the Inobat project, so that Spain is chosen for its new factory.”

“We have excellent human capital, firstclass infrastructure and world­class know­how in electric and connected mobility. Spain is firmly committed to the electrification of the automotive industry.”

Well-known author dies at 83

THE author, philosopher and politician, Xavier Rubert de Ventós, who

wrote the ‘Theory of Sensibility’ has died at the age of 83. The Universitat

Five injured

FIVE people were injured on Sunday, January 29, after a landslide occurred on the A­ 395. The incident happened in the Granada municipality of Guejar Sierra. As reported by both 112 Emergencies Andalucia and the Guarda Civil, the road was closed in both directions at Km16.

Members of the public alerted the emergency services shortly before midday to the landslide on the road leading to the Sierra Nevada ski resort. They said a number of vehicles had been damaged and there were people in need of medical assistance.

112 deployed patrols from the Guardia Civil along with ambulances and the Fire Brigade. A Civil Protection unit was also dispatched to the location as well as National and Local Police patrols.

It was confirmed by medical staff that five people needed treatment. They were transferred to the San Cecilio Hospital in Granada. Those injured included a four­month­old baby, a two­year­old boy, two women aged 36 and 60, and a 65 ­ year ­ old man. Four vehicles were damaged by the rock fall. Heavy machinery was used to clear the road.

Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC) told a local news source on Saturday, January 28 that he had passed away.

A Professor of Aesthetics at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya and one of the founders of the Col·legi de Filosofia, de Ventós was also a member of PSC in Congress, between 1982 and 1986, and in the European Parliament, between 1986 and 1994.

De Ventós was also a professor at the University of Barcelona (UB) and a visiting professor at several North American universities, including as Harvard, Brown, Berkeley, Cincinnati and New York.

After writing ‘Theory of Sensibility’ he went on to receive numerous other distinctions. In all de Ventós wrote more than 30 books and was well known for his work on philosophy, ethics, aesthetics and politics.

The biggest tax reform over recent years is Spain’s new ‘solidarity tax on large fortunes’ which was suddenly announced at the end of last September. The good news, though, is that it only affects very wealthy individuals.

Income taxes

The state 2023 budget included measures to ease the income tax burden on low earners for 2023 and 2024.

At the same time, it increased tax on higher level of savings income by adding two tax bands. Your savings income (interest, dividends, capital gains etc) will be taxed as follows:

Spanish taxation in 2023

3. Spanish tax residents get a general €700,000 allowance plus €300,000 against the main home. Therefore, solidarity tax only really affects those with wealth over €4 million.

4. You can deduct the amount paid in the regular wealth tax from your solidarity tax liability, so you do not pay tax twice.

Solidarity tax

The new, but temporary, solidarity tax was approved at the end of December and applies for the 2022 and 2023 tax years (when it will be reviewed). 2022 labilities will be due between April and

By Jon Pemberton,

June this year.

In summary –

1. It only applies to those with net wealth above €3 million (worldwide assets for residents).

2. The progressive tax rates are 1.7% for wealth over €3 million, then 2.1% for wealth over €5,347,998 and 3.5% for over €10,695,996.

5. A taxpayers’ combined solidarity, wealth and income tax liability cannot exceed 60% of the sum of the personal income taxable bases. If it does, the tax liability will be reduced until the 60% threshold is reached (maximum reduction 80%).

The solidarity tax is applied at state level, so autonomous communities cannot amend it (as they can with the regular wealth tax).

The start-up law – digital nomads and the Beckham law tax regime

After years of negotiation, the law for the promotion of the start-

up ecosystem companies has been approved. Its main objective is to attract and retain investment and talent in Spain and the key new features relate to immigration and taxation. A new ‘digital nomad visa’ has been created and the socalled ‘Beckham tax regime’ (which originated when David Beckham was playing for Real Madrid) has been modified.

This special tax regime can apply to individuals who become resident as a consequence of working in Spain, and has now been expanded to include teleworkers and entrepreneurs. If you meet the requirements, you can be taxed as a non-resident for your year of arrival and the following five years.

You can now apply if you were not tax resident here for the previous five years (it used to be ten), and it is available to those on a non-EU/EEA employment contract and non-EU/EEA nationals who obtain the residence visa for teleworkers.

The rules are detailed and complex, so if you think are you are eligible, seek personal advice.

It is sensible to review your tax planning regularly in any case, but more so following tax reforms. You need to understand how the changes affect you personally and make sure you are making the most of the local tax regime. As with all wealth management, your tax planning needs to be structured around your personal situation and objectives and to take your estate planning wishes into account.

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 change. Tax information has been summarised; individuals should seek personalised advice.

You can find other financial advisory articles by visiting our website here www.blevinsfranks.com.

Partner, Blevins Franks

World Cancer Day

WORLD CANCER DAY is a leading international awareness day, held every February 4, and is a global uniting initiative.

By raising worldwide awareness, improving education and catalysing personal, collective and government action, we are all working together to reimagine a world where millions of preventable cancer deaths are saved and access to life­saving cancer treatment and care is equitable for all no matter who you are or where you live.

Created in 2000, World Cancer Day has grown into a positive movement for everyone, everywhere to unite under one voice to face one of our greatest challenges in history.

Each year, hundreds of activities and events take place around the world, gathering communities, organisations and individuals in schools, businesses, hospitals, marketplaces, parks,

community halls, places of worship ­ in the streets and online ­ acting as a powerful reminder that we all have a role to play in reducing the global impact of cancer.

While we live in a time of awe ­ inspiring advancements in cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment, many of us who seek cancer care hit barriers at every turn. Income, education, geographical location and discrimination based on ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability and lifestyle are just a few of the factors that can nega­

tively affect care.

So this year’s World Cancer Day’s theme, ‘Close the Care Gap’, is all about celebrating progress in its many forms that enable more people to seek and receive the care they need and deserve.

It is about providing the momentum to fuel our fight for fairness. We will build stronger alliances and innovative new collaborations; we will mobilise friends, family, co ­ workers and communities because we know that united, we are stronger.

Close the Care Gap.

THE end of the global pandemic has brought change across most sectors in Spain including the economy, tourism and now residency figures, according to data released on Thursday, January 26.

Data from Spain’s national agency for statistics, the INE revealed that the country recorded 478,990 new residents in the first six months of 2022 alone. During these first six months, 220,443 people also immigrated from Spain, leaving a record-breaking net migration figure of 258,547.

Another fascinating trend

Immigration rates have increased since pandemic.

revealed by the data was that more women than men chose to move to Spain dur-

ing 2022. Sociologists say this is due to higher rates of emigration from Latin America, where women tend to emigrate instead of Asian and North African migration trends which tend to see men emigrate before reuniting with their families at a later stage.

Migration boom American ally

THE United States thanked Spain for its decision to send a shipment of Leopold tanks to support the Ukrainian war effort against invading Russian troops. The USA expressed its gratitude to Spain for the practical gesture on Wednesday, January 25, saying the countries will continue to have a strong relationship.

The American spokesman for the US National Security Council, John Kirby said, “Spain, obviously has been one of the countries that has contributed to and supported Ukraine. That’s something that the President always welcomes.” Kirby added, “We look forward to continuing to work closely with Spain in the future.”

Spain’s Executive made the decision to send the shipment of tanks to Ukraine to show unity with other NATO countries and show its opposition to Russia’s military offensive in the country. The tanks will add to other tanks and military equipment recently provided by Germany and the USA to Ukraine.

Sociologists say the migration boom is good news for Spain, which depends on immigrants for labour and to sustain the economy due to the country’s low birth rate. The data found that most immigrants in 2022 moved for job purposes and mainly found work in the care or tourism industries.

0.5% will be the reduction of the special tax on Spanish electricity.

Top guitarist passes Dementia diagnosis

THE ‘Is this the way to Amarillo’ singer Tony Christie has opened up about his dementia diagnosis saying he is determined to carry on making music.

Speaking on UK TV on Wednesday, January 25,

Christie, real name Anthony Fitzgerald, said: “If you start worrying about it, you’re finished. Ignore it, carry on and do what you do.”

Now 79 years old, Christie added: “I’ve always been, for 50 years, a fanatic at doing

crosswords and things, and suddenly I started finding it very hard.”

That prompted his wife to encourage him to get checked out and was then told: “you’ve got the oncoming of dementia.

He said: “The main thing was, and why I’ve come out about it, is a lot of people I’ve met and who have got it, they’re worried about it.

“And I’m not worried about it. I went to specialists and they gave me tablets and they’ve gradually worked.”

Christie released his latest album before Christmas and is preparing to perform a special show for his 80th.

FOUNDING member and original guitarist for the Yardbirds Anthony ‘Top’ Topham has died at the age of 75.

Topham, who left the Yardbirds before they enjoyed commercial success, had suffered from dementia.

According to a news outlet, his representative said on Wednesday, January 25 the musician had died surrounded by his family.

Topham, who later became known as Sanderson Rasjid after joining the Subud spiritual movement, was replaced first by Eric Clapton, then the late Jeff Beck and finally Jimmy Page.

Born in London in 1947, Topham founded the group in 1963 along with secondary school pal Chris Dreja and singer Keith Relf, bassist Paul Samwell ­ Smith and drummer Jim McCarty. A few months later they were offered a residency at the Crawdaddy Club in Surrey after the Rolling Stones moved. But he decided to leave the group.

Although he had retired from music due to his ailing health, Topham will always be remembered as the founding guitarist of The Yardbirds but also as the sound behind top artists like Christine McVie and Peter Green.

Most vehicles banned

A LONDON borough is taking a bold step as it announced that most vehicles are to be banned from its streets as it expands the controversial low­traffic neighbourhood (LTN) scheme.

Labour­run Hackney Borough Council signed off plans for what it has billed as “the country’s most ambitious plan” to tackle pollution and what it refers to as “toxic air.”

According to the local press on Wednesday, January 25 around half of the borough’s roads are already covered by the scheme, the most in London.

Announcing the plan May­

or Philip Glanville said that the three­year implementation plan will result in the borough having the largest number of car restrictions, but that it would also have the highest number of electric vehicle chargers and parking for cycles.

He said: “This is the most ambitious plan in London, if not the most ambitious in the country, building on an incredible track record in this borough.”

Bollards, planters and traffic cameras will be used to police the streets and to stop the area from being used as shortcuts.

Anthony ‘Top’ Topham.

Image sites.google.com

MATT GOSS is planning a comeback for Bros, the band he started with his brother Luke.

According to a UK news outlet on Saturday, January 28 the 54 ­ year ­ old singer spoke of his desire to reunite with his brother for a new album and tour in 2024.

The pair last played together in 2017 with two concerts at the O2 in London. Those were followed by a documentary on the band entitled ‘Bros: After the screaming stops’.

Bros broke up over jealousy between the two broth­

Bros to make comeback

BROS: Hoping to unite in 2024 for a new album and tour.

ers with Luke feeling second best.

Goss said: “Bros, in the next couple of years it will happen, absolutely. I think in 2024. I would like to think that will

be a year we can think about another documentary and do some shows. Alongside that, we’d like to do some new music together. We want to get on to the festival circuit. We want to document how that experience is for us.”

The band were very successful back in the 80s and early 90s with a number of singles and albums hitting the charts. Their debut album Push back, released in 1988, reached Number 2 on the UK Albums Chart.

Reckless jet skiers

ANYONE caught riding a jet ski recklessly or causing harm to others in the UK could now face up to two years in prison and an unlimited fine, thanks to a change in the law.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency are set to be granted more powers to prosecute, as the government works to ensure the UK’s waters continue to be some of the safest in the world.

The new law will come into force on March 31, before the busy summer period and will enable watercraft users to be prosecuted and bound by the same laws that apply to ships in

order to help to prevent accidents.

The move follows a boom in the watercraft industry during the pandemic, with the number, size, power and availability of watercraft like jet skis increasing, and their use in UK waters rising significantly. Maritime Minister, Baroness Vere said: "The watercraft industry is thriving and it’s great to see more and more people enjoying leisure activities. However, they must do so safely."

"We’ll continue working to ensure our country’s coasts and waters are safe for everyone."

Image Fred Duval / Shutterstock.com

So sudden

By Peter McLaren­Kennedy

A SPOKESPERSON told the BBC on Saturday, January 28 that the wife of the Wales First Minister Mark Drakeford had died suddenly and unexpectedly.

No details were provided at the time, although it is known that Drakeford had said during the pandemic that both his wife, Claire and her mother were “vulnerable.” A spokesperson for Drakeford said: “The thoughts of everyone in the Welsh government are with the family at this time and we ask that their privacy is respected.”

Politicians from across the divide took to social media to express their condolences for the Drakefords who got married in 1977. The couple had three children together.

Flybe collapses

By Peter McLaren­Kennedy

THE British airline, Flybe, based in Birmingham announced via Twitter that it had collapsed and that all scheduled flights had been cancelled.

The tweet on Saturday, January 28 said that administrators had been appointed adding that: “We are sad to announce that Flybe has been placed into administration. All Flybe flights from and to the UK are cancelled and will not be rescheduled.”

Flybe had been placed into administration in March 2020 as a result of the collapse in the travel market caused by the pandemic. But it resumed trading in April following the acquisition of its business and assets by Thyme Opco.

The US hedge fund linked company was then renamed Flybe. Prior to its collapse Flybe was the largest airline outside of London that travelled within UK borders operating

over 500 flights per week across 23 routes.

At its peak it serviced Belfast City, Birmingham, East Midlands, Glasgow, Heathrow and Leeds Bradford.

Paul Smith, the UK Civil

Such a close thing

SIR Paul McCartney is only one of two surviving members of the legendary Beatles. While in London recreating the iconic image where he and his bandmates walk on the Abbey Road zebra crossing, he was almost run over by an Uber.

At the time of the incident, Macca was filming a documentary about the famous Abbey Road recording studios, which is broadcast on the Disney+ platform.

In a video posted on the official Twitter profile of Abbey Road Studios on Wednesday, January 25, Sir Paul is seen pausing to pose mid­crossing. As he stops, a blue­coloured car makes no attempt to respect the law of the road and drives straight through the zebra crossing just behind him.

Aviation Authority’s Consumer Director said: “It is always sad to see an airline enter administration and we know that Flybe’s decision to stop trading will be distressing for all of its employees and customers.”

IN a three ­ part documentary broadcast on BBC2 on Sunday, January 29, former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson claimed that Vladimir Putin threatened to kill him.

This bizarre incident occurred during a telephone conversation with the Russian President on February

The crossing is located outside the famous recording studios of the same name, where the Beatles recorded so many of their classic tunes. Their 1969 album Abbey Road features one of the most memorable and famous record cover designs of all time. It shows the Fab Four crossing the London road in a single file.

Now a sprightly 80 years old, the famous singer­songwriter was not even shaken by the incident.

A threat to kill

2, 2022.

According to Boris, it happened before the deployment of Russian troops to Ukraine. He had just returned from a visit to Kyiv and subsequently had what he described as a “very long, most extraordinary call” with the Kremlin.

As he explained in ‘Putin vs the West’, the Russian leader at that time maintained he would never invade his former Soviet neighbour. But, even as they spoke, battalions from the Russian military

were building close to the border with Ukraine.

Boris said that he warned Putin not to try and invade because that would only lead to sanctions against Moscow. He also pointed out that such a move would mean “more NATO, not less NATO” on Russian borders.

Boris recalled: “He sort of threatened me at one point and said, ‘Boris, I don’t want to hurt you, but with a missile, it would only take a minute’, or something like that,” the former PM continued.

FLYBE: The airline has gone into administration.

€514.7 million is how much living plant and fresh-cut flowers exporters generated in Spain as of 2022.

THE brains behind The Written Word Group and author of The Old Man of Tiritiri Matangi, Berni Albrighton, has shared an insight into her inspirations.

“On a warm summer evening in 2008, I was nearing 50 and had been married to my husband, Steve, for 20 years. We sat playing music, drinking wine and having an intense conversation about life.”

One of us asked: “Will we always live here in the UK?”

It was the catalyst for events that saw the author leave her home, husband, teenage son and dog to take up a managerial position in Auckland, New Zealand.

Berni added: “Steve and my son agreed that I would go and lay the foundations of a new life for us, they would follow in a few months. No one knew the timing could be

Voice of Tiritiri Matangi

so wrong, as 2009 was the start of a worldwide economic downturn.”

The author reminisces that her life in New Zealand was incredible. Her employers were dynamic, she rented an apartment on the beach and quickly made new friends.

“Almost immediately I started volunteering on the conservation island of Tiritiri Matangi,” Berni confirmed. “I would catch the ferry, sail across the waters of the Hauraki Gulf and spend days with other volunteers, cutting back overgrowth, making bird boxes, anything that needed doing

“At lunchtime, I would sit in front of a 950­yearold Pohutukawa tree. Its

twisted roots spread out across the beach as if it were reaching for the waters. Its bark and

branches were dry and brittle and full of holes where animals had once made their homes. I wondered to myself about the incredible stories it could tell if it could talk.”

Berni described how the tree would have witnessed the Maori settlers, the battles between tribes for land, the European settlers, the changing landscapes, the wildlife that was wiped out by man and the volcanic eruptions which destroyed communities.

After a challenging year of closures and redundancies, Berni was due to return to the UK. It was then she decided to give the tree a voice, to tell people about its

life.

“I began to write my book which took almost three years to finish and Leamington Spa ­ based artist, Guy Chapman brought my words to life with his illustrations.

“I self ­ published and we sold our book at local book fairs and high ­ end craft events.”

Berni added: “It was the start of my writing and propelled me to reach into the creativity that is inside all of us.”

The Written Word Group welcome new members at their regular meetings in Albox, Almeria. For more information about The Old Man of Tiritiri Matangi or the literary group, please email: balbrighton@ gmail.com.

BERNI ALBRIGHTON: Creativity is inside all of us.

Image: Berni Albrighton

IT was revealed on Saturday, January 21, that three Spanish divers had been rescued from the freezing waters of the Baltic Sea off the coast of Poland. Their boat had broken down off the coast of the northern city of Gdansk during a bad storm.

Polish rescue services picked the three men up, suffering from the early effects of hypothermia. According to reports, they had spent the previous six

Mystery surrounds rescue

hours attempting to fix their boat’s engine, which had apparently broken down.

At the time of rescue, they were about eight kilometres off the coast of Poland. The Russian region of Kaliningrad and the strategic facilities of the city’s port ­ the largest in the Balticwere also within reach.

Credit: JonMilnes/Shutterstock.com

When questioned by Polish authorities, the Spaniards claimed they had been diving for amber. The area in which they were located contains the largest amber reserves in the world, as reported by a news source.

Their claim appeared a little unconvincing though given they were making a dive in icy Baltic water under the cov­

DIVERS: Found in icy waters.

er of darkness, during a huge storm. The Polish police said the divers did not have the necessary permits or insurance, but the men were not arrested.

Gas field closes

By Peter McLaren­Kennedy

THE Groningen gas field, the largest in Europe, is in danger of being closed down despite gas shortages according to Dutch government officials.

Speaking to a UK news outlet on Tuesday, January 24 a government official in The Hague said that the field is dangerous. Hans Vijbrief said that the site won’t be expanded but the opposite may happen. He said: “We won’t open up more because of the safety issues. It is politically totally unviable.” Groningen production has been reduced substantially over the years due to seismic activity in the

area, and according to OilPrice.com was only kept open due to the energy crisis. They say there has been much speculation about government plans given that the site has the potential to fill the shortfall from Russian supplies.

Initially, the government in the Hague spoke about expanding the site but that is now definitely not going ahead with Vijbrief saying: “It’s very, very simple: everybody who has some knowledge of earthquake danger tells me that it’s really very dangerous to keep on producing there. I’m quite convinced it’s wise to close it down.”

1.5% is how much the UK is losing of its hospitality sector every quarter.

PRESS EUROPEAN

DENMARK

Card sharp

FINANSFORBUNDET, the trade union that represents employees working in Denmark’s finance sector, reported that 2022 was the country’s first year without a bank robbery. As more people use cards, banks are keeping less cash on their premises, relieving workers of the ‘extreme stress’ they experienced during robberies, the union said.

THE NETHERLANDS

Fire hazard

THE Netherlands should prepare to fight more wildfires owing to rising temperatures and increased periods of drought, experts from the Institute of Public Safety (NIVP) and meteorological institute, KNMI, warned. Fire departments, used to dealing with burning buildings, will need more training in extinguishing wildfires in rural areas, they said.

BELGIUM

Strong arm

A 2022 by the Le Soir newspaper and broadcaster RTBF found that many Belgians were disenchanted with parliamentary democracy, with 70 per cent preferring referendums on key issues. A further 69 per cent said that they would back a strong leader who ‘understood people’ and was capable of ‘restoring order’.

GERMANY

Zebras crossing

A RESIDENT in Geldern in Germany’s Lower Rhine-Westphalia area alerted the police after he had spotted two zebras wandering loose. Assisted by members of the public, they were able to round up both animals and return them unharmed to their owners who welcomed them home with a bucket of carrots.

FRANCE

Unequal rights

A FRENCH government report found that sexism remained in all areas and the situation was worsening, especially for younger women. Investigators observed that women were targeted via new types of harassment which included online violence, abuse on social media and pornography with ‘barbaric’ content while discrimination had reached ‘alarming proportions’.

NORWAY

Paint query

BERGEN University research into whiteness and paint is examining whether the Norwegian-developed pigment, titanium dioxide, has contributed to white supremacy and ‘has made the world whiter’. Although not a conventional colonial power, the project will investigate whether Norway has helped to establish white as a ‘superior colour’, university sources said.

FINLAND

Be ready

FINLAND risks more power cuts this winter than other EU countries but is also better-prepared thanks to the Defence Ministry’s annual brochure. This advises the population to store sufficient food, water and medicines to see them through 72 hours during the coldest months and to invest in a battery-operated radio.

IRELAND

Spare time

IRELAND’S president Michal D Higgins called for a ban on homework. Speaking on national broadcaster RTE, Higgins, a former Arts minister, argued that school activities should end at the school gate and eliminating homework would provide extra time for young people to engage in more creative pursuits outside school hours.

ITALY

London’s loss

THERE is an increasingly buoyant market for luxury properties in Milan, the financial capital of Italy, as bankers, fund managers and private equity investors are choosing to abandon London following Brexit. They have also been enticed by the offer of generous tax breaks introduced in 2017 to attract new arrivals.

PORTUGAL

Come hither

A SHORTAGE of doctors in Portugal’s National Health Service (SNS) prompted the government to launch an incentives programme in hopes of attracting them to sparsely populated areas. Sweeteners include higher salaries and free accommodation for resident doctors who decide to carry out their specialist training in hospitals in the interior.

UKRAINE

Build it up

UKRAINE’S president Volodymyr Zelensky and Larry Fink, CEO of Blackrock Inc, the New York-based multinational investment company agreed to coordinate and channel investment in rebuilding the country. Ukraine’s Economy Ministry and Blackrock’s Financial Markets Advisory division signed a memorandum of understanding in November.

SWEDEN

Stay loyal

SWEDISH newspaper Dagems Nyheter allegedly received documents revealing that before leaving China more than 30 doctoral students bound for Lund University had first to sign a pledge. They were reportedly obliged to promise to ‘serve the regime’s interests’ and never participate in activities ‘that flouted the wishes of the authorities’.

STAT OF WEEK €56.7 million

is the amount of the fine that on-demand courier service Glovo will have to pay for employing foreigners without work permits and imposing work conditions on the self-employed.

BUSINESS EXTRA Mahou victory FINANCE

Cough up

THE Crown Estate is suing Twitter for allegedly defaulting on the rent for the company’s London headquarters located near a prime Piccadilly Circus site. Billionaire Elon Musk, who also owns Tesla and Space X, took control of Twitter in October.

Record demand

ASSOCIATED BRITISH FOODS’ revenue rose during 2022’s final weeks after increased demand and higher prices. Turnover rose by 16 per cent to £6.7 billion (€7.6 billion) in the 20 weeks ending on January 7 in all ABF’s companies, including Primark.

Pay rise

TELEFONICA ESPAÑA employees will receive a 7.8 per cent pay rise backdated to last January after reaching agreement with the UGT and CCOO unions. After reviewing increases introduced since 2019, Telefonica is adjusting salaries in line with the present CPI.

Big problem

THE BIG ISSUE, which is sold by the homeless, almost went under during the pandemic, admitted its founder and editor­inchief John Bird. Having survived, sales are currently affected by the cost­of­living crisis as millions across the UK struggle with inflation.

Ibex debut

ALMERIA­BASED marble company Cosentino, which trades in 40 countries, will be listed on Spain’s Ibex 35. The familyowned company has engaged JP Morgan and Goldman Sachs to oversee the operation and will be worth an estimated €3 billion, insiders said.

Not hacked

CAJAMAR clients could not use their digital banking app for three days last month owing to an internal technological incident. The bank reassured its 3.7 million customers in southwest Spain and Castilla y Leon that it had not suffered a cyberattack.

Supermarkets under fire

JUAN ROIG, president of the Mercadona supermarket chain, recently introduced the New Economic Forum held in Valencia.

Days earlier Ione Belarra, Social Rights minister in the PSOE­Unidas Podemos coalition governing Spain, called Roig “a pitiless capitalist” who was currently “lining his pockets.”

Belarra, speaking in Zaragoza at a meeting of Podemos, the party to which she belongs, was not representing the central government at the time, but her declaration immediately became a national issue.

Presenting the Forum, Roigwhose supermarket chain has a 25 per cent market quota and employed 93,500 people in 2021 ­ maintained that business­owners gener­

ated wealth and well­being.

“If those who manage the businesses know how to run them, there is prosperity for all. If not, there is confrontation,” Roig said.

On leaving, he was besieged by reporters asking him for his opinion of Belarra’s comments but he declined to answer their questions. Smiling cheerfully and repeating a polite

“Thank you, thank you” he made a speedy exit without giving anything away.

According to annual reports published in 2021, the last available year, Mercadona had a 2.7 per cent profit margin, with Carrefour reporting 4.6 per cent and Lidl 3.1 per cent, compared with the sector’s 2.3 per cent average nationally.

Initially the big chains absorbed the increases but have now been forced to pass them on to the consumer.

The sector pointed out that higher prices have not brought more profits, particularly for own­label products, where increased sales mean a bigger margin for the manufacture rather than the distributor.

Help from Down Under

BRITISHVOLT, hailed as a prime example of the government’s success in securing UK business investment, went into administration last month.

The electric car battery manufacturer had hoped to build a £3.8 billion (€4.3 billion) factory near Blyth in Northumberland with government funding if it found investors.

This would have met the demand for electric vehicles ready for the UK’s 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars. Instead Britishvolt collapsed after a rescue bid by

Going further

THE H2Med pipeline sending green hydrogen from Spain and Portugal to France is to be extended to Germany.

It enters into the road map on hydrogen recently revealed in an announcement from the French and German governments as they increase investment in the latest technologies, particularly renewables and low carbon energies.

The H2Med undersea pipeline between Barcelona and Marseilles, expected to be operational by 2030, will carry hydrogen that has been produced via renewable energy.

It is expected to transport up to two million metric tons of green hydrogen a year.

several investors fell through, with most of its 300 employees immediately made redundant.

Now help could be at hand following a non­bind­

ing offer from Recharge Industries, an Australian startup linked to New Yorkbased investment firm Scale Facilitation, which intends to build a battery factory in Geelong, the former car manufacturing centre near Melbourne.

Thanks to Australia’s mineral deposits, the proposed lithium­ion plant would not be dependent on Chinese or Russian materials and risk supply chain holdups.

A Britishvolt deal “made strategic sense” Geelongborn David Collard, Scale Facilitation’s founder and chief

Four-day week

THE four­day week has become more likely thanks to the pandemic when both employers and employees began to rethink workplace flexibility.

One fewer working day doesn’t mean less work or a pay cut, however, as employees are paid the same, receive the same benefits and maintain the same workload.

Proponents hail the four­day week, arguing that if worker satisfaction increases, so will productivity, and Spain has already started a trial phase after the government launched a modest programme project in December..

The Spanish pilot scheme is a test to see if productivity will be boosted, as its advocates maintain. Meanwhile participating companies can receive aid from a €10 million government fund, although they will be expected to come up with ways of increasing productivity, Spain’s Industry Ministry Reyes Maroto said.

BREWERS Mahou have finally won their eight­year battle with Spain’s tax authority, Hacienda.

The Supreme Court in Madrid has cancelled the €1.08 million fine that Hacienda imposed on Mahou in December 2014, owing to what it saw as irregularities in the Corporation Tax (IS) the company paid during 2008 and 2009.

The disagreement between Hacienda and Mahou centred on calculations for advertising and publicity spending on major events.

In 2021, the National High Court in Madrid confirmed a 2018 ruling backing Mahou, prompting the brewer to lodge its successful appeal to the Supreme Court.

More prizes

executive told the international media.

Referring to the spirit of Aukus ­ the trilateral security pact between the UK, Australia and the US ­ Collard said that strengthening connections with “our friends in the UK” was in the general interest “especially when most others are kicking them when they’re down.”

Rob Fitzpatrick, Recharge Industries’ chief executive, explained that should the offer proceed, the operation would also provide the Australian company with greater access to Europe.

Speeding up

SPAIN’S car factories are gradually upping production but they are still far from returning to pre­pandemic levels.

According to the country’s Association of Automobile and Heavy Vehicle Manufacturers (Anfac), Spain’s automotive industry produced 2.2 million new vehicles last year, 21 per cent below their output for 2019.

Anfac’s director general, Jose LopezTafall, revealed that although the flow of raw materials had improved, together with the availability of chips, many plants were having to endure interruptions to their supply chains and were obliged to work at a reduced rhythm.

Despite these problems, production increased by 5.8 per cent last year, compared with 2021 with a ‘significant’ 18.9 per cent improvement in December.

PREMIUM BOND holders now have a greater chance of a win after National Savings and Investments (NS&I) upped the prize fund rate from 3 to 3.15 per cent. The new rate, a 14­year high, comes into force from February onwards.

Premium Bonds earn no interest but instead the interest rate funds the monthly tax­free draw. The bonds are the UK’s biggest savings product, with more than 21 million participants investing £119 billion (€137 billion) in them.

Nevertheless, the chance of each £1 (€1.13) bond proving a winner is still fixed at 24,000 to 1, since the number of prizes worth between £50 (€56.75) and £100,000 (€113,472) will increase in the next draw, but there will be fewer £25 (€28.38) prizes.

Deposits vary

THE European Central Bank hiked interest rates but the yield on deposits varies throughout the eurozone.

With a two­year fixed deposit account paying an averaging 0.69 per cent compared with the eurozone’s 1.20 per cent average, statistics office Eurostat found Spain trailing its neighbours by an average 73 per cent.

The difference over longer periods widened to 86 per cent, with Spain averaging 0.97 per cent compared to Eurozone’s 1.81.

Italy and the Netherlands pay most on a 24­month fixed deposit account, averaging 1.8 per cent, followed by Estonia (1.73 per cent) and Finland (1.63 per cent). At the other end, Cyprus pays 0.11 per cent, followed by Greece (0.20 per cent) and Portugal (0.35 per cent).

Photo credit: Bankinter

MERCADONA: A 25% market quota. Photo credit: Britishvolt

BRITISHVOLT RESCUE: Non-binding offer from Recharge Industries.

DOW JONES

Currency outlook: US dollar slumps amid fading Fed rate hike bets, Euro underpinned by ECB interest rate speculation

USD/GBP: Down from $0.82 to $0.80

Euro

EUR/GBP: Unchanged at £0.88

EUR/USD: Up from $1.06 to $1.09

Recent movement in the euro has been largely tied to European Central Bank (ECB) rate hike expectations, helping the single currency rally since the start of 2023.

This helped to underpin EUR demand through the first half of January as hawkish ECB rhetoric bolstered expectations the bank will continue to deliver 50bps rate hikes through the first half of the year.

However this also led to some volatility in the second half of the month following a Bloomberg report in which it was suggested the ECB might be considering slowing the pace of its monetary tightening following its February meeting.

Elsewhere the euro also faced some headwinds as a result of weaker-than-expected German economic data as well as fears of an escalation of the war in Ukraine.

In light of the recent Bloomberg report, the ECB’s next interest rate decision will be the primary focus for EUR investors over the next month. If the ECB confirms it will ‘stay the course’ with the current pace of rate hikes, the euro is likely to strengthen.

BUSINESS EXTRA

Hard times

AMAZON workers in the UK recently went on strike, protesting over pay and conditions. Employees said they were constantly monitored and warehouse robots received better treatment.

Deaf ears

ANTONIO GARAMENDI, president of the Spanish Confederation of Business Organisations (CEOE), warned that the government’s ban on one ­ use plastics would hurt the agrifoods industry.

Heavy duty

A NEW £100 million (€113.6 million) customs inspection site at (Sevington (Kent) with space for 1700 lorries is under­used and the only regularly inspected imports are household pets arriving from Ukraine.

Pound

GBP/EUR: Unchanged at €1.13

GBP/USD: Up from $1.20 to $1.24

After a muted end to December, the pound spent the first half of January struggling to find any sustained support.

Sterling initially wavered this month on the back of some mixed PMIs. While an upwardly revised manufacturing PMI buoyed the pound, these gains were swiftly reversed after the subsequent services index printed below forecast.

An increasingly gloomy outlook for the UK economy then kept the pressure on GBP exchange rates through the second week of Jan-

uary, with only some modest relief being seen after the latest domestic GDP figures bolstered hopes the UK avoided a recession in 2022.

However, the pound then bounced back as we entered the second half of the month.

Stronger-than-expected UK wage growth and inflation figures bolstered Bank of England (BoE) interest rate hike expectations and propelled Sterling to a one-month high.

Looking ahead, the BoE’s February policy meeting could trigger some GBP selling pressure if the bank’s forward guidance indicates appetite for further hikes remains limited.

US Dollar

Big plans for ports

OCEAN CAPITAL PARTNERS

(OCP) calculate that Spanish ports will require a €4.5 billion investment if they are to meet low­carbon energy targets.

This is the amount that will be needed nationwide for installing renewable energy sources, the electrification of ports and producing biofuel for vessels.

OCP, which manages the passenger terminals at the ports of Malaga and Algeciras and is the majority shareholder in Malaga’s super­yacht marina, estimates that producing biofuels like methanol, ethanol or hydrogen alone would account for €4 billion.

Reducing Spanish ports’ carbon footprint to 50 per cent of 2019’s figure will require installing 300 megawatts of renewables, involving almost €300 million. It will cost another €450 million to provide the electricity supply for vessels in all Spanish ports while complying with European directives, OCP believes.

These decarbonisation objectives were included in the

targets.

central government’s Strategic Framework for General Interest Ports. Approved in 2022, this set out a route map for an informatically­smart, well­connected system able to deal with freight and passengers in safe and sustainable conditions.

For OCP, meeting these targets involves challenges like digitising the ports, which it considers will require greater public­private collaboration.

Royal Mail update

ROYAL MAIL’S Matthew Harris contacted the Euro Weekly News on Thursday January 26 with an update on the international delivery service.

“Although we recently resumed International Tracked & Signed as well as International Signed services to all destinations for business account customers and customers buying postage online, we have not actually resumed international services,” he said.

The halt was the result of a cyberattack by a Russia­linked ransomware gang named Lockbit discovered on January 10.

“Following the cyber incident, we have been temporarily unable to despatch export mail parcels to overseas destinations,” he added. “We have temporarily asked customers not to submit new export parcels into the Royal Mail network until further notice.”

USD/EUR: Down from €0.94 to €0.91

The US dollar opened 2023 on strong footing, the currency storming higher in the first week of the year as it was bolstered by a technical correction as well as stronger-than-expected employment figures.

But the ‘greenback’ struggled to maintain this momentum as USD investors continued to scale back their expectations for future Federal Reserve interest rate hikes.

This lead to a particularly strong response to the latest US consumer price index as another cooling of domestic inflation further undermined Fed rate hike bets.

The US dollar then sought to claw back some of its losses after some particularly disappointing US data stoked recession fears and bolstered demand for the safe-haven currency.

However, this only temporarily offset a prevailing risk-on mood, which also contributed to USD selling pressure over the past four weeks.

The Fed is widely expected to deliver a 25bps rate hike in February. Another slowdown of the Fed’s tightening cycle could extend the US dollar’s losses into the coming month.

Currencies Direct have helped over 430,000 customers save on currency transfers since 1996.

Indian rhapsody

DE LA RUE is entangled in a corruption probe involving India’s former Finance secretary Arvind Mayaram.

The Gateshead company, which produces bank notes, recently learnt that India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI­I) began investigating Mayaram’s activities before 2016.

Together with Finance Ministry and the Reserve Bank of India officials, he faces charges of criminal conspiracy, corruption and abusing his official position.

All allegedly conspired to unduly favour De La Rue in a deal to sell bank note security features “to the detriment of the Indian exchequer.”

De La Rue learnt of the scandal following Press reports and said it had not worked for the Indian government or central bank since 2016.

Eurostar slowdown

EUROSTAR’S chief executive, Gwendoline Cazenave, announced that the UK­Paris trains now carry 30 per cent fewer passengers.

The company currently runs 14 trains each day between London and Paris compared with 18 in 2019, owing to holdups in stations resulting from post­Brexit border checks and fewer border staff, Cazenave explained.

Suspended trains included the direct service from London to Disneyland Paris and connections for the Ebbsfleet or Ashford International stations.

The Eurostar boss said that faced with these problems, it was possible the company would decide not to restore some of the suspended services, although it was at present “working hard” with both the French and UK authorities to find solutions.

STERLING:

The pound spent the first half of January struggling to find any sustained support.

ALGECIRAS PORT: Big outlay to meet low-carbon

PLEASANTLY surprised to read an article published in the UK Sunday Times last week. Nice to know there are still a few respected columnists who hold the ‘old fashioned’ views of Leapy to their journalistic chests.

The article stated, among many other observations; and I quote ‘There is now a full­on left wing campaign to unstitch and burn the very fabric of Britain’ (unquote). It went on to state that in a typically military style operation the woke society had already seized control of the TV and radio stations, to such an extent that recently at the end of the BBC’s News at Six, the presenter actually announced ‘Now over to our LGBT and diversity correspondent’. You really couldn’t make it up.

According to the same report, the diversity outfit has now moved their operation to schools, endeavouring to convince (and confuse) young children that their misinformed parents have also embraced racism and prejudice in the past. Well this ol’ boy has been taking plenty of flack (and often very welcome agreement) about these types of observations for some years, nice to have some consensus from other pretty well placed sources.

Also pleased to witness a keen example of the excellent reputation our own publication enjoys for allowing different opinions to flourish among its broad

Vindicated

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

spectrum of columnists.

To be honest I’ve gone off the current Conservative Party (not difficult!). Far too many alternating opinions and ideas. Abundant disagreements, unfortunately giving the opinion that the whole operation is slowly falling apart.

The Labour party, with its media and Union supporters, of course absolutely loves it. Well I can assure them they would never get this ol boy’s support.

One of their serious problems is their so­called leader. I say ‘so­called,’ because I believe he is a weak ineffectual individual, who presents only carefully pre­prepared statements to the House and is manoeuvred and manipulated by his members to front up an operation which will probably remove him if they find themselves once more in power.

Should they be successful, prepare for wide open immigrant flood gates, diversity being more important; political

CULTURE CLASH OUR VIEW

opinions that consider the power structure of white predominately able­bodied male gender heterosexuals is intent on destroying the earth and drag queens in full regalia voicing their opinions in the house.

You can also be ready for the likes of Eddie Izzard, Diane Abbott, Angela Rayner and grinning Union leaders traipsing out of number 10; benefit scroungers retitled ‘Needy Members of Society,’ legalised drugs, plus a whole glut of put down Royalty scandals and a country going completely bankrupt.

As a final word this week, I also noticed that Keir Starmer recently actually had some trouble declaring that ‘only men were able to grow penises!’ Good luck everyone.

Keep the faith, Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com expatradioscotland.com Mon. and Fri. 1pm till 4.

For more from our columnists please scan this QR Code

THE claim that one convicted rapist transitioned to become a woman in a bid to avoid male prison in the UK has reignited the currently ever burning topic of trans rights.

Let’s be clear; the level of respect any one human being is entitled to can never have anything to do with their race, gender, sexuality, or other inherent characteristic. However, the issue of whether trans people can compete in their new gender’s sports’ categories, change in their dressing rooms in shops and serve time in their prisons is one that sees an almighty clash of rights, most often between women and trans people.

While it wouldn’t be right to dismiss the needs of a trans person to be treated with respect in their new gender, it can never be right to make other women fear for their safety. Especially not in surroundings in which control over your own space and safety are at a minimum, like prison.

Whenever issues surrounding equality are brought up for the first time, there is often a period where the courts (and often the general public) take time to work out how this should be balanced. When gay marriage was first introduced, there were multiple Christian businesses who asserted their own rights not to recognise this as a Christian concept.

In short, there’s always a clash when one set of rights ends up conflicting with another.

With tensions getting higher and higher over the trans issue though, and with the safety of both women and trans people being put at risk in the fallout, let’s hope there is a resolution to this one sooner rather than later.

LeapyLee’sopinionsarehisownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

LET THEM EAT CAKE? NOT IN THE OFFICE!

NORAJOHNSON BREAKINGVIEWS

THERE are always zillions of press articles trying to debunk commonly ­ held views about which foods are bad for us. Salt in your diet causes high blood pressure. Carbohydrates and red meat are bad. Dairy products fattening. Brown bread better than white. And everyone needs tons of protein.

Each “report” producing more waffle than a Belgian baker. Dark chocolate, coffee, red wine: good for you because they have antioxidants which neutralise the free radicals in your body. Next week, that earlier study was flawed, they’re actually bad for you: too much sugar (like cakes). Next month, they’re good for you again. Then, those findings were over­

hasty; it's still bad for you. Frankly, practically everything that feels/tastes good is probably finally going to somehow make you ill anyway.

Trouble is, this “research” can mean different things to different people. We’re all individuals and what works for some doesn’t work for others. Anyone who says otherwise is a bit like men claiming they only used to read Playboy “for the articles”...

Meanwhile I’m off to the gym for my regular 90 minute session. And that’s no myth! 15 minutes of cardio,15 minutes of weights. And 60 minutes of talking myself into it.

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

cancer charity.

THE British Benevolent Fund is one of the oldest charities in Spain for the British community. It was set up under the auspices of the embassy and with whom it still maintains a close relationship through the consular network.

Many people assume that the consulate have the financial resources to fund Britons in need and distress, which they do not. Instead the consulates look to partners, including the British Benevolent Fund across the country to step in when there are no other alternatives.

After Brexit there are many Britons who had been living in Spain who found themselves as not officially resident with no right to Spanish state support or healthcare.

For those who have health issues and no resources for private health care this increasingly means a return to the UK.

Many times, those returnees are alone with no family, elderly with health issues and no or limited resources.

Imagine the feeling.

It’s not a happy ending to a life lived in Spain.

The consulates do the heavy lifting of finding accommoda­

Support us

tion and ensuring that the person has access to NHS care, which many times is neither easy or quick. One such case was an 80­year­old man, who had lived off grid for decades in Spain. He had no residency or any paperwork and was no longer able to support himself nor pay for medication and was increasingly found in emergency waiting rooms for pain that he could not bear.

The consulate was able to help place him in the UK for healthcare provision and he was fortunate that he was found a nursing home to go to.

The BBF was able to pay for his return flight as well as help with the costs for his passport.

It was a modest sum which although not the happiest cir­

cumstances allowed him to receive the care he needed.

There are many more like him.

We can only help them with your generosity, any donation goes a long way for people like him.

If you would look to support our work please write to me: olaf.clayton@britishbenevo lentfund.org.

The Ecocorp Solar virtual battery service

THE Ecocorp Solar virtual battery service offers you an opportunity to optimise your investment in solar panels.

Being ‘virtual’ they are also a massive step towards complete environmentally friendly ‘green’ energy production.

Solar panel production is very rarely in step with the electricity consumption of most households. As a result, circa 30 per cent of the annual customers’ solar panels productivity is unused.

To address this and also minimise electricity charges customers have historically sought options to feedback or invested in a physical battery storage system. This new virtual battery option affords a holistic more cost-effective solution.

Using cloud-based technology, your unused solar panel production is stored.

Giving you the opportunity to use 100 per cent of the production from

your solar panels.

The stored electric can then be drawn down at a time to suit you. For example, on overcast days, periods of high electric consumption, at night or during those seasons when the solar production is less due to a combina -

tion of the shorter days and the sun being ‘lower on the horizon’.

Through your electricity suppliers’ App you will be able to access the virtual battery data.

Ecocorp Solar in conjunction with our specialist Spanish ‘Super Engineer’ partner can, if you choose, deal with all of the necessary technical and required administrative paperwork.

Your home is personal to you, so the amount of energy you consume and the time you demand it will vary.

Choose the experts for the best advice.

Ecocorp Solar SL have 16 years experience in design and configuration of bespoke solar power systems.

Their knowledgeable and friendly team will work closely with you to provide and install a solution that meets your unique requirements.

Ecocorp Solar offer a FREE no obligation home assessment and quotation service.

Cudeca

Noraistheauthorofpopularpsychological suspenseandcrimethrillersandafreelancejournalist.

Nora’s latest thriller.

NoraJohnson’sopinionsareherownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

Olaf Clayton of BBF.

Advertising Feature Voss Homes

Property of the week

Villa La Perulera for sale near Huercal-Overa

Ref. VH2131

219,950 euros

EXCLUSIVE LISTING TO VOSS HOMES

NEW &

An immaculately presented, spacious, light and airy three bed, two bath Villa with H&C air con, 8m x 4m swimming pool, glazed conservatory plus Florida style meshed enclosure, roof terrace and lovely country views on a private 500m2 low maintenance, walled and gated garden.

Located in the pretty hamlet of La Perulera between Huercal ­ Overa (10 mins drive) and Taberno towns (eight mins drive). Forty to 45 mins drive to the coast at San Juan del Los Terreros or Mojacar, Vera and Garrucha. The nearest bar / restaurant is in Santo Petar village six mins drive from the property.

From the driveway to the left is the large meshed Florida style enclosure with built in bbq kitchen with sink and

views over the pool and countryside.

Next is the swimming pool area and then the garden that follows round to a gated area behind the villa with built in dog kennel, log store and rear door into the utility room and kitchen.

Stairs up to the sun terrace with

all round views and storage cupboards. Overlooking the pool and with country views is the glazed conservatory making another ideal place to relax

and dine. From here the front door leads into the welcoming reception hallway.

Straight on is the large, quality fitted kitchen with an archway looking through to the living / dining room. Next is the

utility room.

From the hall turning to the left is the spacious living / dining room with log burning fire, H&C air con, ceiling fans and glazed double doors leading out to the conservatory.

Also from the hall and to the right is a passage way to the bedrooms and bathrooms. First is the modern family bathroom. Next are the two double guest bedrooms and finally the main bedroom with modern ensuite shower room and door leading out to the Florida style enclosure. All three bedrooms have built in wardrobes, ceiling fans and H&C air con.

Voss Homes is a British family ­ run business with offices in the nearby, thriving market town of Huercal­Overa and the village of La Alfoquia village (Zurgena).

Cold comfort

FEED a cold and starve a fever.

That’s what our mothers and grandmothers said, although these days the medical profession recommends both.

You should feed both colds and fevers and starve neither, doctors say, as your immune system is fighting off infection and eating less could actually be harmful.

In the meantime, anyone looking for online advice when coughing, sneezing and reaching for the paper hankies will find plenty of information about immuneboosting food and drink that will feed their head cold.

Garlic, citrus fruit, cranberries, chilli peppers and pomegranate juice all have qualities that are traditionally believed to ease the symptoms of the common cold, although certain sectors of the medical profession will point out that despite all their virtues, there is

no guarantee that these foods can speed recovery.

Anything that is comforting and meets some of your nutritional needs while you have a cold will be helpful, especially if your sense of taste and smell have been affected.

The body still needs calories and nutrients to function and fight the infection, health professionals explain.

Hydrating and nourishing

foods and drinks, especially those you were given as a child, can help recovery both physically and psychologically. Almost inevitably that will include soup which is comforting, filling and nourishing, particularly when it is homemade and includes protein ­ which can include pulses instead of poultry or meat ­ as well as carbohydrates and vegetables.

HEAD COLD: Comfort food will help you get over it

Photo credit: Pixabay/Sweet Louise

THERE’S no age limit for yoga.

Children can start at age five and some will enjoy it so much they continue through adulthood, and then as senior citizens for as long as their bodies and health permit.

But what about those no longer in the first flush of youth who decide to take it up for the first time?

More and more of those who can only be described as elderly are putting on yoga pants and rolling out their mats each week, and medical experts increasingly agree that this is a good thing. Some studies have even linked yoga to an improvement in the readings that are obtained when monitoring cellular ageing.

Yoga can also bring positive changes to brain health, with a recent study finding that healthy seniors who practised Hatha yoga for

Never too late

two years performed better than a control group on certain cognitive tasks.

A no ­ longer young beginner will probably be happier attending a gentle yoga class, although further options ­ depending on their physical limitations ­ include chair yoga, restorative yoga and Hatha, all of which focus on slow, controlled movements.

Not that yoga is a

cure ­ all for ageing. People lose muscle, their tendons toughen as they get older and health professionals recommend practising other types of strength training at the same time as yoga.

Meanwhile, instructors and instructed both maintain that yoga is more than physical postures as it addresses the mind, the spirit and the emotions at any age.

YOGA CLASS: Beneficial for people of all ages.

Photo credit: CC/Drmirshak

MIJAS IN WHITE

LET it snow, let it snow, let it snow... Well, I hope. It felt like just a little bit of home seeing Mijas dressed in white, especially in the middle of January. I do love the sun but how amazing would it be if it did snow. I don’t know if Spain would be able to cope, the UK can’t. I wonder if anyone would have any sledges to use if it did heavily snow... Do you think any of the shops stock them?

Denise, Mijas

Imagine making it to 115

JUST imagine, this story really took me by surprise, and I can’t help but continue to think about it. Maria has lived through so much! Two pandemics, countless wars, Presidents, Prime Ministers, the reign of Franco and so much more. I wonder how many books she has read or how many times she has thought “oh here we go again...” 115 is remarkable, I don’t know if I will be here until 115 but if I am, I hope I have lived half of the life she has.

Nicky, Costa Blanca

Nature trails

YOU know that is something that I really miss from home that I don’t think is talked enough about. At home everyone goes for a walk ­ up Cave Hill, the Mournes, Slieve Donard and the Black Mountain. I don’t know if us people from Belfast are just the walking kind, but I would love to learn more and where there are accessible trails to walk in the area. Especially with the beautiful scenery of Spain and before it gets too warm as well!

Philomena, Belfast

Mr Blobby

WELL, if that isn’t a blast from the past, who else got a massive flash back to their childhood when they saw that article? I know I did. The big box TVs, the flap or door at the front that wouldn’t close where the buttons would be, the aerial that always made the screen go grey and the youngest ie, me having to get up and fix it because ‘you’re the youngest’ was the only valid reason. Watching Mr Blobby cross­legged in front of the TV has brought back so many memories and I hope it has for you too. A real hit of nostalgia but I don’t know if I would have paid €19,400 for it though.

Almeria

Holiday hotels

THIS article was quite eye opening, I have never thought about things in the way Nora has thought and written down. But nothing irks me more than travelling all day only to arrive at the hotel and for the room not to be ready. Coming from a large family and having a large family, grumpy, tired, men and children I can

only deal with for so long after travelling all day. It’s even worse when the front desk mess up the booking and you go to open the door of the hotel room, only to be greeted to one double bed for a family of six. I had to stop the kids from jumping about! And take them all the way back down to reception... with all the luggage... and the grumpy man. Let’s just say I took full advantage of all the exclusive drinks package after that.

Victoria, Dublin

Health is wealth

I THINK it is one of the best quotes to exist and it is so true. I don’t think people these days understand how important your health is and what it can allow you and not allow you to do. You don’t know until it’s too late. Take it from someone who is a bit older now and wishes he could do what he once did. I used to run for miles and miles but it’s just not the same anymore. I still take advantage of the good sea air and take nice long walks. But it isn’t the same as the wind cutting your cheeks when you’re sprinting about and the feeling you get after a long run and finally get to sit down. I feel that now after two miles, never mind 12. Look after your health and utilise it as much as you can!

Billy, Axarquia

I won the lottery!

THAT was quite the headline, I was so pleased for David only to find out he didn’t. But it got me thinking, what would you do if you did win the lottery? I think I have an idea, but I also feel like I have my own internal battle. Do I want to go mad and spend all of it... or most of it. Do I want to give it all to charity? I’m not leading a bad life at the moment. Or do I just pack everything up and call it a day, travel the world and just go on world cruises. There are people who do that you know, just do cruise to cruise and never go back ‘home’ and you technically don’t need to either. You have your accommodation, you’re seeing somewhere new every day, the food is unlimited, and the service is incredible. Different shows every night, casinos for if you wanted a real wild night and you would be constantly meeting new people and experiencing new cultures! I think I have made my mind up now after writing this letter haha. But what would you do? Honestly, if given the chance.

With love, Patsy

Animal allergies

YOU don’t understand how severe this feeling can be, the itchy eyes, skin, the works. I grew up around animals and after not having been in proximity of them for so long I do now unfortunately have an allergy. I know my one will go away with time; it always does but the itchiness is something I can’t deal with, the price you pay to cuddle with cuteness.

Rose, Birmingham

Jennifier,

Advertising Feature Grupo Platinum Estates Property of the week A

Place in the Sun Manchester March 3 to 5

EXCLUSIVE

WE are excited to announce that some of the Grupo Platinum Estates team, will be attending the show in Manchester. We look forward to meeting new clients to show them the Almeria area, and showcase properties we have to offer. We are the only Agency who will attend this show to represent the Almeria area this year, and we will have a prime position!!

We have decided to attend this show after the phenomenal success of the show we attended in Dublin in October. We have a high number of clients coming over to stay with us and buy properties, and in January so far we have had record sales.

If you have a property you really want to sell, contact us urgently!

Let us showcase your home and get it sold.

Remember

GO LOCAL

WHEN YOU GO SHOPPING - GO LOCAL!

we are a team with over 50 years of experience, we are open seven days a week, speak seven languages, and have three offices covering a large area. Call us now on 950 466 112 or email info@grupoplatinum.com. Don’t delay, do it today, and get your property sold.

CATS and skincare, they’re not two words that are often found in the same sentence. But vets in Spain are warning cat owners to take better care of their cats skin after seeing an increase of cats with dandruff and other skin problems.

Today, we’re sharing some advice to help you to treat dandruff and dry

skin in your cat during the winter.

• Dandruff causes

Think about it, cats are covered in fur, so their whole bodies are like a scalp. This means they are prone to skin issues when dead skin sheds and becomes lodged in their fur. Small amounts of dandruff are common, but skin flaking is a cause for concern

Pawfect travel tips

as this can lead to inflammation, irritation and hair loss.

Doggy dental health Cat skincare

Dandruff and flaky skin can come from a diet that isn’t as nutritious as our cats need, putting on extra weight, particularly during the winter, dry skin and parasites or skin infections.

• Treatment advice

If you notice your cat has more dandruff than usual it is important to see

your vet as they can likely identify the cause of the problem. Vets can recommend the changes to your

cat’s routine or diet necessary as well as special dandruff shampoos to treat the problem.

Wrapping up

Pet seatbelts are a popular choice to ensure your pet doesn’t get injured while you drive and you can keep your eyes on the road.

MANY of us need to take our pets in the car at some point in their lives. Whether it’s just a trip down the road to the vets or whether it’s a cross­country road trip for a holiday, travelling with your pet can be a nerve­wracking experience.

But don’t worry! Today we’re bringing you top tips on how to travel by car with your pet safely and legally.

• Official advice

The Spanish Driving Authority, DGT advises against letting your pet roam free during a car journey. They recommend drivers to keep pets in a carrier while travelling to avoid dangerous distractions or injuries for your pet. The DGT also recommends harnessing your pet carrier securely to avoid accidents.

• Carrier alternatives

Popular alternatives include a pet seatbelt or a divider that goes between the driver and the back of the car. If you have lots of space in your car and plan to take lots of trips in your car, this is a great option, allowing your pet to stretch its legs slightly without distracting you while driving.

• Healthy habits

Travelling by car can be thirsty work. Make sure your pet stays hydrated by taking comfort breaks more regularly than usual to offer your pet some water or food. It is also important to let your pet get fresh air often.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

THE cold snap in weather across Spain has caused problems for us as humans, let alone for our four ­ legged friends. The freezing temperatures have left many of us wondering, are dog coats a good idea to keep our canines nice and cosy?

Today, we’re sharing some advice on how to use a dog coat.

• Needs must

The first thing to consider is whether your dog needs a coat. Despite some advice not to put a coat on your dog, experts say a dog coat can be necessary when temperatures drop, particu larly if your dog doesn’t have much fat or fur.

• Size matters

Small dogs like chihuahuas, short­haired dogs like boxers, thin dogs like greyhounds and older dogs often need coats during the winter to stay warm.

• Function not fashion Dog clothes should perform a role in keeping them warm, this is more impor­

which could even be harmful for your dog.

Vets often recommend woollen coats, or coats lined with wool thanks to this material’s cosy texture, anti­allergic characteristics and since it is machine washable. Fleece and cotton are also good choices.

• Safety first

If you’re dressing your dog in a coat, vets recommend checking on your dog during and after its use, to make sure it’s not too cold, overheating or uncomfortable.

Dog coats don’t always need to be trendy, but they do need to do their job in keeping your furry friend warm.

CARING for your dog means thinking about all aspects of its health, including teeth. Dogs often eat hard, crunchy foods and maintaining great dental health helps to prevent painful conditions and keep that tail wagging!

1. Teeth brushing

It might sound silly but just like humans, dogs need regular teeth cleaning to keep them strong and healthy. Dogs don’t need daily tooth brushing but as often as possible is recommended. Use a specially developed dog toothpaste and your dog will love having its teeth brushed.

2. Dental dog treats

You can give your dog chewable treats to reduce plaque and tartar build up on the surface of its teeth.

3. Professional cleaning

Taking your dog for teeth cleaning once a year can help your vet to catch any issues and keep your dog smiling.

Photo credit: RJ22 / shutterstock.com

Some dandruff in cats is normal, but too much of it could be a sign of a problem and

lead to fur loss if left untreated.

Photo credit: Andrey_Popov / shutterstock.com

Photo credit: Masarik / shutterstock.com

ALMERIA BUILDERS : Fully Legal, Fully Insured, All Work Guaranteed. 659 685 133 www.almeri abuilders.com (253556)

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

MOBILE homes & static caravans bought, sold and transported. +34 630 055 418 or elsyd7@hotmail. com (302142)

LOCAL ANGLICAN (C of E) church services at Mojacar Los Llanos Del Peral and Alhambra. Communion every Sunday in Mojacar at 11am. Communion at Los Llanos every Sunday except the last Sunday in the month when there will be Prayer and Praise all at 11am. The services that were being held in the South American church Albox have now returned to the chapel and Communion is held on the second Thursday of the month at 11am. Priest in charge Rev Canon Alan Bennet telephone number 680 243 436. For further information, please go to The Anglican Chaplaincy of Costa Almeria and Costa Calida web page. Or contact Tony Noble 950 069 103. (10002)

TURRE EVANGELICAL

CHURCH We meet every Sunday at 10.30. For worship. We believe you’ll find us ‘relaxed’, welcoming’ and ‘informal’. Find us on Turre’s main street, towards the motorway at the far end on the left. To know more contact 617 914 156 (10021)

ROYAL BRITISH

LE -

GION - Why not make this year the year you volunteer? Call and 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 tbuddyh hvisits@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 your nearest one at, www.british legion.org.uk/counties/ spain-north ZURGENA Branch meeting on the first Thursday, Coffee Morning on the third Thursday and Buffet & Quiz Night on the last Tuesday of the month all at Bar Trinidad, Arboleas, for further details please email zurgenarblchairman @gmail.com - (253989)

ABBOTT ELECTRICS .

From a Light Fitting to a Full Rewire. Tel: 950 137 208 / 638 010 691

VOSS HOMES are a professional, British family-run Estate Agents with an office in Huercal-Overa town. They specialise in selling and renting properties in the Huercal-Overa, La Alfoquia, Zurgena & Taberno area. Andy, Anna, Jess, Adele, Hannah, Amy & Karen look forward to helping you buy, sell or rent your ideal property. Please call 678 002 006 for more information (283824)

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

MOTOR INSURANCE

For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 952 147 834, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 952 147 834 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726)

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

FOR SALE

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)

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

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

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

REMOVALS & STORAGE

THE FIVE BONE HOTEL, TURRE. Little dogs €7.75, medium dogs €8.50, big dogs €9.25, cats from €7.00 a day. 630 234 556 / the5bonehotelturre@ gmail.com fivebonehotel. com (301372)

PLUMBERS

KNOWLES PLUMBING

No 1 for all plumbing jobs big or small. Central heating, solar hot water and water deposits. Tel: 606 807 797 or 684 143 560

SOLAR ENERGY

SOLAR WIND POWER SOLUTIONS. Over 20 years installation experience. Established 17 years in Spain. Call Phil for

UPHOLSTERY

competitive prices on 636 261 240 or email info@sunergyalmeria.com (295779)

PROP FOR RENT WANTED

REMOVALS

Ford puts on the style with Puma

ROAD TEST

byMarkSlack

EVEN after it has been on our roads for three years

Ford’s Puma still draws admiring comments and still has stand out looks in a motoring world where much seems the same on the style front.

When I had my first Puma test car I was parked in a supermarket car park and a rather trendy young couple walked past.. “That’s the new Puma,” said he. “Nice, isn’t it,” said she.

A few minutes later they both purred past in their Porsche SUV. If you think a lot of people buy a car because they like the looksand then argue they bought it for more common sense reasons then it’s probably the former. The Puma, even in these difficult times, delivers healthy sales for Ford.

Underneath the smart body sits a lot of Fiesta, including engine and gear box. But the bits you can see are all bespoke to Puma and stretch further in every dimension than the Fiesta donor.

Ford has a hard won reputation to maintain for building affordable cars that bring a smile to their

driver’s face. The Puma more than lives up to the accolade, with the sort of eagerness to tackle a corner that the taller body might warn against.

Positive steering and a pretty snappy gear change add to the fun. The more sporting ST ­ Line and ST look enhanced in all the right places with a sports

Facts at a Glance

• Model: Ford Puma ST-Line X

• Engine: 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder, turbocharged petrol

• Gears: 6-Speed manual

• Price: €30,720/£26,970

• Performance: 0-100 kmh (62 mph) 9.8 seconds/Maximum Speed 191 kmh (118 mph).

• Economy: 5.2l/100km (54.3 mpg) Combined driving.

• Emissions: 101 g/km

Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets

all the attributes of dearer cars.

body kit. However, they also have sports suspension so it’s worth checking the ride is to your liking before making your final choice, even the non ­ sporting models ride and handle extremely well.

Prices start at €28,385/ £24,920 for a Puma that comes with a 1.0 ­ litre 125PS engine and shares

The Pumas also add mild hybrid to the mix for improved green credentials. Every Puma gets a cockpit that looks modern, works well but arguably lacks the surface shine of some rivals.

There’s plenty of room up front and just about enough in the back, before we reach the clever bit in the boot. Lift the boot floor and you discover what Ford calls a

MegaBox, an 80 ­ litre waterproof compartment, complete with drain plug for dirty wellies and the like.

The goodies count is impressive, with even the lead ­ in Puma featuring power fold heated door mirrors, auto lights, high beam assist, auto wipers, navigation, intelligent cruise, climate, Car Play and Android Auto, quickclear heated screen, five different drive modes and 17” alloys.

FORD PUMA: Positive steering and a pretty snappy gear change add to its fun.

Diesel prices to skyrocket

AS reported on Thursday, January 26, by a news outlet, the heads of various oil companies have warned that the price of diesel will skyrocket at the pumps on forecourts in Spain after February 5. Specifically, that is the date on which the EU embargo on buying Russian crude oil comes into force.

The sanctions are designed to starve Moscow from funding its invasion of Ukraine. However, according to sources in the petrol station sector consulted by the news outlet, Europe is still heavily dependent on Russia for its diesel supply.

Compared to when the government’s fuel discount was in place, the cost of petrol has already risen 18 per cent in the first weeks of 2023, and diesel by 15 per cent.

Data from Refinitiv, the global provider of data and infrastructure of the financial market showed that in November 2022, 44 per cent of the imports of this fuel

came from Russia. The reason given for this dependence is the decoupling that exists between

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supply and demand in Europe. Every day, the continent lacks 1.3 million barrels of diesel that must be bought outside the continent.

This deficit has been blamed by the sector to a large extent on the energy strategy of the European Union. Its strong commitment to disengage from fossil fuels as soon as possible is causing the sector’s investments in this business to have fallen in recent years.

OIL COMPANIES: Have warned diesel prices set to rise.

6,000 is how much Britons can be fined for driving in Spain without a licence.

LaLiga club fires new manager Grand slam record tie

GENNARO GATTUSO has been fired by Spanish LaLiga side Valencia CF after just seven months in charge at the Mestalla.

Spanish LaLiga club Valencia CF on Monday, January 30, parted company with its 45­year­old Italian manager, Gennaro Gattuso. The former midfield enforced had only been at the Mestalla stadium for seven months. They are currently languishing in 14th spot in the table.

“Valencia CF announces that on Monday, January 30, the club and the first team coach, Gennaro Gattuso, have decided by mutual agreement to end the contractual relationship that united the Italian coach with the VCF,” read a statement released by the club.

It continued: “The Club wants to thank the coach for his commitment and work in these months in charge of the first team and wish him the best of luck in his future. The team will return to training on Tuesday, January 31, under the orders of ‘Voro’ Gonzalez.”

Since taking the job last June, the Spanish giants have only won five out of their 18 matches under Gattuso. A 10 defeat at home to Real Valladolid was clearly the last straw for the club’s hierarchy.

As announced, Voro Gonzalez will take charge while Valencia searches for a new manager.

This will be the eighth time he has taken temporary control of the team during his time at the Mestalla. His current spell could not start with anything worse than an away match at Real Madrid’s Bernebau today, Thursday February 2.

NOVAK DJOKOVIC has tied with Rafael Nadal’s record of 22 grand slams men’s singles titles, after winning the 10th Australian open against Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Serbian professional tennis player Novak Djokovic won the 10th Australian Open title after he defeated Stefanos Tsitsipa in straight sets.

His victory comes as the 35 ­ year ­ old returned to Australia after being sent

back to his country due to Covid­related restrictions.

After winning this title, Djokovic has now tied with Spanish player Rafael Nadal’s record of winning 22 men’s singles grand slams.

Djokovic also replaces Spain’s Calos Alcaraz as the world’s number oneranked tennis player after his 6­3, 7­6 (7/4), 7­6 (7/5) victory against the Greek Tsitsipas.

Following his win, the

Serbian tennis player broke down in tears and said that this was the biggest victory of his life.

Djokovic has not lost a single game at Melbourne Park since 2018, and has a

record 28 match wins in the men’s singles category.

Djokovic ties with Nadal’s grand slam record after winning the 10th Australian Open men’s singles.

World record offer rejected

MANCHESTER UNITED have rejected Arsenal’s world record bid for England striker Alessia Russo just 24 hours before the deadline.

A UK news source reported on Tuesday, January 31 that the fee of £400,000 would make her the most expensive player in women’s football, more than the previous record paid by Barcelona for England midfielder Keira Walsh in 2022.

The offer comes as Arsenal search for a replacement striker with their top two attackers, Beth Mead and Bivianne Miedema both suffering injuries towards the end of 2022.

The 23­year­old Russo is out of contract with Manchester United this summer and is a highly sought­after player, with a number of European clubs said to be keen to sign her.

Once free she will be able to negotiate more freely and possibly for more money with Lyon, Chelsea and Arsenal all keen to submit bids.

Manchester United who top the league are said to be keen to maintain momentum and are unwilling to lose their star player. They are said to be in contract negotiations however there has been little progress. Securing the title and Champion’s League qualification could help their case.

NOVAK DJOKOVIC: Won his 10th Australian Open

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