Costa Blanca North 2 – 8 February 2023 Issue 1961

A SPECIAL REQUEST

EVERY year the 74 children attending the Raquel Paya school in Denia for children with special needs, receive a visit from Santa who brings a present for each child. There is also a special request from the school for help with a project.

This year it is for assistance to finance transport for the children’s school outings, for which a cheque for €1,500 was presented, €1,200 from The Charity Shop, and special thanks to Diane and Pauline who donated a further €300, raised at their tennis tournament.

On Friday January 27, 10 members of staff were

invited to visit the school.

Headmaster Miguel was delighted to receive the cheque and explained how important it was that the children have the opportunity to go on school outings. We were given an extended tour of the school and information about the methods used to teach the 74 pupils skills within their

learning capacities.

Miguel also wished to express the gratitude of the 47 professionals for the support and assistance given by The Original Charity Shop over the last 30 years.

The Original Charity Shop is situated on Carrer de Nancy 1, in Javea’s Arenal, the library is to be found in Javea Park. The

Outstanding student

LA NUCIA resident Blanca Pastor Molina won the 11th edition of the Rotary Club’s Isidro Cortina award for the Marina Baja’s best student. The €3,000 prize goes each year in recognition of an outstanding Marina Baja student’s efforts in achieving academic excellence.

shop and library are open Monday to Saturday from 10 am until 1 pm.

Blanca, who studied at Colegio Almedia in Callosa d’En Sarria, obtained 11.84 out of a possible 12 in the Selectividad University entrance exam, the highest mark that any Marina Baja student has obtained in any previous edition of the Isidro Cortina award. She is now working for a double degree in Mathematics and Computing at the Polytechnic University in Valencia City. La Nucia’s mayor Bernabe Cano and Education councillor Sergio Villalba attended the prizegiving by the Rotary Club’s Benidorm branch at the Hotel Benidorm Plaza on January 26.

SCHOOL VISIT: Ten staff members were invited along to the Raquel Paya school in Denia.

Linda Hall

Linda Hall

THE National Police recently arrested 10 people and seized 1,500 fake designer items in Benidorm and Villajoyosa. The merchandise was on sale in five shops in Benidorm’s Rincon de Loix and on six stalls at the

Not for real

open­air market in La Cala de Villajoyosa. Their sale would have meant a potential €1.4 million loss of revenue for the companies involved, police said.

Removing unwanted invaders

They launched an investigation at the end of December after a representative from one of the well­known firms affected by the rip ­ offs informed them that counterfeits were on sale at the La Cala market.

Earlier, the Benidorm shopkeepers’ association AICO had tipped off investigators about the increase in bogus designer labels at different open­air markets in the area.

MARC GARCIA, Confederación Hidrografica del Jucar (CHJ) executive, visited Altea on Thursday January 26 to supervise cleaning the Barranc dels Arcs stream.

The CHJ is collaborating on the €110,000 operation with Altea Town Hall, which will be responsible for ensuring that the stream is kept clear of invasive common reeds over the next two years.

At the end of this period, the area will be sown with native species, Marc Garcia explained, as he inspected the €110,000 Les Arcs operation accompanied by Altea’s mayor Jaume Llinares and Environment councillor Jose Orozco.

• Diagnostic imaging and ultrasound Rx

• Clinical tests and serological tests, internal medicine, parasitology

• Soft Tissue Surgery and Traumatology

• Ethology, behavioural disorders and animal behaviour

• Physiotherapy, acupuncture, custom recovery and Healing touch

• Ophthalmology

• Dentistry and dental surgery & more

• Import - Export

Police were accompanied during the recent swoop by a court expert specialising in detecting imitations who confirmed that the items on sale were fakes.

All those arrested were released after making statements, while the goods, which included clothes, watches, computer products and accessories, will be sent to courts in Benidorm and Villajoyosa.

“We are restoring the riverbank vegetation by removing reedbeds and covering the banks with tarpaulins for 18 months,” Garcia explained.

“This produces a greenhouse effect affecting the roots, after which the next step involves replanting the banks with native plants as we gradually lift the tarpaulins,” he said.

Jose Orozco stressed the importance of the CHJ’s operations, first in La Olla and now Els Arcs. “This is very necessary as it improves biodiversity and at the same time reduces the risk of flooding for the many homes adjoining the streams,” he said.

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.

Now, Hugh Elliott has told the EWN that his most

THE mayor of Alicante, Luis Barcala, has confirmed that new bus routes have been introduced in the city.

The new service incorporates two circular lines along Gran Vía and between Cabo de las Huertas and Hospital de San Juan. In addition, the network has been extended to PAU5 and line 7 has been split to improve service to the industrial areas of Pla de la Vallonga and Las Atalayas.

These are some of the main new features which have been implemented from Wednesday, February 1, together with an improvement in frequency on all routes and a 50 per cent discount on all transport passes.

Luis Barcala explained that “Alicante is launching its new public transport model based on intelligent, more sustainable and efficient mobility. All routes now en­

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.”

More routes

ter fully into the era of digitalisation, providing citizens with access to information on the lines in real time and recharging vouchers via mobile phone, as well as promoting sustainability by renewing more than half of the fleet with hybrid and electric vehicles before the end of 2023.”

Hugh Elliott in Madrid.

Credit: British Chamber of Commerce.

BUS ROUTES: More routes for the city.

Image: Alicante City Council

Hypothermia aid

THE Red Cross responded to emergency calls during a mountain race which saw 35 cyclists catch hypothermia due to icy temperatures on Sunday, January 29. Cyclists who made it to the finish line were also given blankets to warm up.

Touching tribute

AUTHORITIES in Altea created a moving memorial for five local victims of the Holocaust, who were killed in concentration camps trying to free prisoners. A two metre statue was unveiled at the Palau Altea on Friday, January 27, Holocaust Memorial Day.

School support

THE Rotary Club in Javea showed their community spirit with a generous donation of more than €4,000 for local schools to support struggling students. The group raised the money with a beer tasting event which also received match funding.

Boat thieves

A GROUP of robbers were apprehended by the coastguard near to Altea after stealing a boat worth nearly €400,000. The four men were handed over to Guardia Civil after being found with drug trafficking paraphernalia on board.

Off-season

LAST weekend’s Benidorm Fest took the local tourism industry by storm with hotels operating at nearly 90 per cent capacity. The first edition of the event without restrictions worked miracles for the industry which is expanding beyond the summer season.

Medieval mania

VISITORS and residents in Benissa were transported more than 500 years into the past at the town’s medieval market last weekend. More than 50 artisan stalls offered fascinating handicraft goods and demonstrations.

U3A Calpe gets back to normal

U3A Calpe recently held its first General Meeting of the new year. Almost 80 members attended.

The guest speaker was Carole Saunders, Adviser to the mayor of Calpe. Carole provided a detailed update on a range of issues relating to Calpe and aspects of life in Spain for expats.

Topics covered included voting in the municipal elections in May, the regulations, and obtaining stickers, for the new Emission

Zones, and dealing with unauthorised occupation of property.

The President reported that membership was rising again, after the difficulties caused by Covid and Brexit, and financially the association was stable.

She informed members that a new Groups Coordinator for the Committee was now required ­ anyone interested should get in touch by email to arrange a ‘no obligation’ chat over a

Careline success

coffee. The U3A Choir has restarted, weekly on Wednesday evenings at the Civic Centre, from 6.007.30pm.

The choir will be preparing for a number of activities including performing as part of U3A Calpe’s Coronation celebrations. In addition, Line Dancing will be available for interested members on Thursday afternoons at the LAFMA premises, starting at 2.30pm for an hour.

Cash prizes for photo contest

THE Department of Equality, Gender and Gender

Policies at Benitachell

Town Council has announced that the prizes for this year’s Fotodona photography contest will be €300, €200, €100 and €50. This is the eighth time it has organised this contest

to raise the profile of women and to mark International Women’s Day on March 8.

The photograph must portray one or more women of legal age, at any time of life, regardless of nationality or culture. Priority will be given to photos of

All aboard the TRAM!

LAST week, the final section of line 9 of the TRAM d’Alacant, between Gata de Gorgos and Denia, went into operation and the first passengers were able to enjoy this long ­ awaited service between Teulada and Gata for just 40 cents.

The regional government has just announced an inflation ­ busting 50 per cent reduction in public transport prices from February 1 to June 30, 2023, and free travel for the under ­ 30s, making this perhaps the most inexpensive way to get around in the Valencian Community. The measures apply to the entire Metrovalencia network, TRAM d’Alacant , Castelló Tram, MetroBus and concessions.

The refurbishment of Line 9 of the TRAM d’Alacant between Dénia and Benidorm cost €150 million funded by the state and regional governments and has linked eight towns of the Marina Alta and the Marina Baixa through the FGV transport network.

The project also entailed transforming level crossings with traffic lights and demolishing the walls that enclosed the tracks, as well as adapting the station in Denia itself.

women who live locally in Benitachell. If identifiable people appear in the works, their written consent must be obtained. Candidates may submit up to three black and white or colour photographs of no more than 5MB and a resolution of 300 dpi, as well as

ANYONE lucky enough to have witnessed this year's pantomime, Cinderella, by Careline Theatre will know what a success it was.

Careline Theatre has long held the reputation of an amateur theatre group with a professional touch and this production is truly worthy of that statement.

The theatre encourages all ages to participate in its productions and in this show, we witnessed a chorus with members as young as six up to 70+.

printed on photographic paper measuring 30 x 40.

You must also complete a form and send this to the electronic office or to the Customer Service Office in C/ de les Escoles, 2, Benitachell in person. The deadline for entries is February 24 at 2pm.

Payand display

A PAY-TO-PARK scheme is being rolled out in Teulada Moraira to benefit both businesses and users in the urban centres of the municipality, guaranteeing more free parking spaces in the busiest areas. The measures were being eased in until February 1 throughout the Teulada and Moraira urban areas.

Drivers must pay and display a receipt from vending machines and pay by cash or credit card. The tickets show the arrival time, the amount paid, the vehicle registration and the end time.

There is a two­hour limit in blue zones for non­residents (three hours for residents) in both mornings and afternoons. Residents may renew the ticket if they exceed the three ­ hour limit within the established schedule. For vehicles with reduced mobility badges, the maximum stay is double.

Vehicles without a ticket or overstay will be fined, however, this can be avoided by paying €4 for a special receipt within two hours. Without the initial payment receipt, the special receipt costs €7.00.

Parking is still free on Sundays and holidays and between 8pm and 9am.

All the characters were played fantastically and the chorus provided a great link to the storyline with their well­rehearsed numbers.

Careline is blessed with an infrastructure where they do everything inhouse. All costumes are made by their seamstresses, the sets are built by parents and partners of the cast, they have a backstage crew, a lighting gang, and a bar and frontof ­ house team, all of whom take their responsibilities seriously to prove that the magic doesn’t just happen on stage, but behind the scenes too.

If you’d like to know more about forthcoming productions, help out backstage or even try your hand at acting, singing or dancing visit www.care linetheatre.net.

Carole Saunders receives a gift from President Wendy Down.

Six fish for one angler

Linda Hall

MEMBERS of TeuladaMoraira Fishing Club once again visited the River Jucar (Valencia Province) for their latest Winter League match. “This time we were on section B3,” said club secretary Jeff Richards. “I was on Peg 22, an end peg by the bushes which is normally good but not today.”

This morning started with a light breeze, a cold eight degrees, eventually rising to around 12 degrees, with the water temperature down to 12.

There were three dry nets out of seven competitors with the best total weight of the day going to Graham Sewell on Peg 20 with 13 kilos. Between them the anglers landed a

Akira auction

Betty Henderson

AN exhilarating auction event near to Moraira is set to donate a portion of its profits to Akira Animal Sanctuary at an event set for Saturday, February 18.

A toe tapping show

total weight of 19.5 kilos and nine fish, of which six were caught by lucky Graham Sewell. Second place went to Jack Janssen (three kilos), followed by Jeff Richards (2.1 kilos).

For further information about Teulada­Moraira Fishing Club, contact Frank Povey on 966 490 338 or email frankpovey1@ gmail.com.

“We are a very friendly club and always happy to welcome new members,” Jeff said.

The live auction will be held at the Hill Top Sports Bar and Grill in La Sabatera, near Moraira, and promises an exciting, competitive bidding atmosphere. Donations for the auction can be dropped off from 10am before bidding begins at 12pm.

Akira Animal Sanctuary works in Teulada, Moraira and Benissa to rescue, recuperate and rehome abandoned and abused dogs.

The shelter was founded in 2011 when a group of expatriate animal lovers noticed a need for a new shelter in the

area and can now accommodate 50 dogs each night which are mainly brought in from the streets, but some also come in from homes when the owners are unable to provide the care they need. The pandemic and increasing cost of living have caused difficulties for the non-profit organisation and they need your help more than ever, through donating items for the auction and bidding at it. Items must have a value of at least €5 and clothing is not accepted.

SOUNDS FAMILIAR will soon be performing their latest musical theatre revue called Musicals Tonight. The staged concert of musical theatre will be performed at the new Teatre-Auditori in Beniarbeig on Thursday February 23.

No matter what your taste in musical theatre, there is something for everyone in this concert with its wide range of styles including My Fair Lady, Evita, Cabaret, Little Shop of Horrors and even the Monty

PROVERBOFTHEWEEK

Python hit, Spamalot.

The group have been rehearsing various routines that will accompany the songs and trying on their new costumes.

So if you enjoy musical theatre then why not come along to Beniarbeig for an evening of toe tapping.

Doors will open at 7.30pm with the show itself starting at 8pm. Tickets are priced at €14 and are available on 965 581 483 or online at https://www.philipashley.c om/boxoffice.php.

Curiosity killed the cat

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.

JUCAR MATCH: Graham Sewell with the best total weight of the day

Life on the ocean

CREAMA, a public local development consortium that serves eight towns of the Marina Alta area, has launched an initiative to encourage young people to choose careers that involve one of our most valuable resources: the Mediterranean.

More than 1,000 students at 15 local secondary schools will be introduced to sailing and fishing, leisure activities, and boat repair and maintenance, hospitality and so on, to ensure that these skills are passed down to new generations.

Students will learn about the benefits of working in this sector and how these professions have a future. There will be various presentations during February that will address two differentiated aspects of a nautical career, the first focusing on recreational sailing covering content such as nautical leisure and the sports aspect, boat repairs and maintenance of boats, and tourism or the main qualifications necessary for sailing or working as crew.

The second will talk about the importance of the fishing fleet in the Marina Alta, fishing equipment, and requirements to become a professional fisherman.

Year of the rabbit

KUNG HEI FAT CHOI ! or Happy New Year in Cantonese.

A special New Year celebration party organised by the Worshipful Master of Arenal Deportiva Lodge No 65. W. Bro Peter Johnson, and his wife Florence Li Fung Ha attracted almost 80 brethren, partners and friends to celebrate the Chinese New Year, this year being the year of the Rabbit.

The party was at Sabores II restaurant in Moraira and was held on the last day of the Chinese New Year festivities which is traditionally known as “everyone’s birthday.”

Florence had arranged a very special menu for the evening, and the restaurant was dressed beautifully with traditional Chinese decorations for the event. A superb meal was

enjoyed by the partygoers and with the Worshipful Master handing out Lei See packets containing chocolate coins, a great time was had by all.

An excellent raffle draw raised over €500€ for Lodge funds which will be allocated to charity.

Calpe invests in police

Plans are still at an early stage but the Public Safety department has decided that the scheme will be carried out in several phases, beginning in the town centre and gradually spreading outwards.

This year’s Police and Public Safety allocations include €142,004 for bulletproof vests, weapons, radios and breath­test equipment for the Local Police while the 2023 budget assigned a further €40,000 for uniforms and body armour covers. Firearms and munition will account for a further €5,000 and there are plans to lease another two police vehicles and a motorcycle.

The town hall began procedures to add five more members to the Local Police and promote two officers already on the force last year. Responding to personnel needs, the town hall asked the Valencian Institute of Public Safety (IVASPE) in November to provide five temporary officers to fill the vacant posts.

Population rising

THE National Institute of Statistics recently released its annual population figures, which show that the population of the Marina Alta has grown by 30,000 inhabitants in 20 years.

The average rate of growth overall is 1,500 new residents per year, however, this growth is not even throughout the area, with three municipalities actually losing some inhabitants.

Unsurprisingly, the largest town, Denia, has grown most, with 9,213 new additions, followed by Calpe, which gained 3,993, Javea with 2,363, Pedreguer with 2,128 and El Poble Nou de Benitachell with 1,755.

L to R (Peter Johnson (W.M.) and Florence, Philip Bowick (Immediate Past Master) and Hilary, and Ian Brown (Lodge Secretary) and Eileen).

CALPE Town Hall intends to install CCTV cameras throughout the municipality.

Hard fought

AN action packed weekend saw both the Under 16s and the seniors recording fine wins against tough opposition.

First up was the Ba Bas S16s who travelled to local rivals, Tatami of Valencia.

The game was hard fought and it was evident from the first whistle that the players meant business. The Ba Bas scored the opening points and went into the break leading 12­0.

In the second half though, cracks started to appear in the Tatami defence and the Ba Bas saw opportunities to break through and tries from Sam, Marc and Winder sealed an epic victory for the away team 36­3.

The seniors took on Elche on Sunday in what turned out to be a hard fought encounter in which both teams laid everything on the line. The visitors opened the scroting following some fine support play and went into half time leading 100.

Elche though came out firing

in the second half and hit back with a try and a penalty but the Babas hung on to record a fine victory 10­8

The next game is M16 at home Saturday February 4 in

Flurry of fundraising

AN exciting afternoon of musical entertainment is set to raise much­needed funds for a local animal rescue group. La Cruz Animal Rescue are hosting a fundraising afternoon to help their dogs find furever homes on Saturday, February 18.

Denia at 10am while the seniors have a rest weekend.

Please call Santi (Spanish) on 676 612 357 or Mac (English) on 609 646 349 for more information.

Caravanning fans

FANS of camper vans, motorhomes, caravans, residential modules, mobile homes, leisure and free time, accessories and camping articles will be in heaven at the Mediterranean’s number one and Spain’s number two sector fairCertamen Caravaning Alicante ­ on February 10, 11, 12, 17, 18 and 19 .

All the main brands of caravans in the market will be there, displayed in an area of 13,564 square metres as well as a wide variety of offers on second­hand vehicles. There will also be a large accessory store for tuning caravans and motorhomes.

Don’t forget to visit the recreational area of the exhibition with info about campsites, tourist offices and holiday offers, leisure activities, stands with a variety of items and food trucks.

Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.cara vaning­alicante.es/en/ in advance at a discount or bought at the full price at the box office.

The event will be an opportunity to meet other people who love and respect a way of travelling and also a way of life. Feria de Alicante is at N.340, Km 731. 03320 Elche (Alicante).

A frosty start to 2023

MONTGO GOLF SOCIETY played their first medal competition of 2023 in very frosty conditions, which delayed the competition by one hour so the course had time to thaw out.

The next competition at Oliva was sponsored by Andrew Brown, thank you Andrew. The winner of this competition was Pete Turner with a net score of 72. In second place was Franz Budnik with a net 73. In third place was John Day with a net 74 on countback from the Captain. They are sure the captain will get his own back.

There were two Nearest the Pin prizes on offer on the 3rd and 16th and taking home the spoils this week was Bernard Ross and Terry Griffiths. There was only one two and that was won by Gerian Van Ooijen.

Next week’s they are playing a Bogey competition sponsored by Brian and Claire Stringer.

Gwen’s Bar and Kitchen in Villajoyosa are hosting the event which boasts four live musical performances and a DJ set. Doors open at 1pm, with the event staying open until 8pm. There will also be a raffle, featuring some fabulous prizes, many of which are from local businesses.

The music is set to kick off from 2pm with an incredible performance by singing talent, Sarah Stewart, followed by Sean Mac at 3pm. Kim Peters will take to the stage at 4pm on the day, before a performance by Chris Lee and DJ Dusty.

Admission for the event costs €5, which is payable on the door. All proceeds from the entry fee will go to the animal shelter.

La Cruz Animal Shelter was founded back in 2004 and rehomes around 50 stray, abandoned and abused dogs in the Villajoyosa area every year.

Since 2018, the shelter has also had a branch dedicated to rescuing cats.

TATAMI: The Ba Bas S16s beat their local rivals.

The winners of the first competitions.

Five injured

FIVE people were injured on Sunday, January 29, after a landslide occurred on the A­395. 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 65­year­old man. Four vehicles were damaged by the rock fall. Heavy machinery was used to clear the road.

By Peter McLaren­Kennedy

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.

Vueling strike called off

crew registered with the CC.OO a 6.5 per cent increase, which they said was in line with the inflation 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.

STAVLA had been calling for a 13.4 per cent increase rising to 33 per cent by 2025. But the compa­

ny had said was not financially possible and had instead given

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 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

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

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.

Spain and Slovakia

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 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.”

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

Refugees exploited

AUTHORITIES working on a contraband tobacco case have revealed that criminals were illicitly using Ukrainian refugees for labour, providing low wages and work in poor conditions.

Police from the Guardia Civil announced the dismantling of a criminal ring running three illegal tobacco factories on Sunday, January 22, and now say Ukrainian refugees were being exploited to work in two of the factories in dismal conditions, in exchange for menial wages.

Ukrainian refugees who had arrived in Spain following Russia’s invasion of their country last year were living ‘crammed’ inside the factories according to police oficers who participated in the bust. On the other hand, criminal bosses were living luxury lifestyles, at the expense of their exploited labour.

The illegal tobacco factories were capable of producing around half a million packets of cigarettes every day. The first factory to be uncovered was located in Sevilla at the end of 2021, which led to the other factories in eastern Valencia and La Rioja being found during the last 12 months.

Police believe the gang was also involved in other organised crime including drug trafficking.

Betty Henderson

VUELING: The two parties are hopeful an agreement can be reached soon.

Image Ivan Berrocol / Shutterstock.com

‘Only yes is yes’ law

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 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

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 in Spain.

The government arranged a vote on new legislation promising to continue fighting against antisemitism which was held on Tuesday,

conviction types associated with sexual assault in line with the Istanbul convention and that is what has resulted in sentence reductions. 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.

In memorium

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.

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 southwest 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.

POLICE in Spain have arrested a suspect in connection with the letter bombs sent to several significant addresses in the country, including the Prime Minister and the Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid.

The suspect, a 74year-old retired man, was arrested in Miranda de Ebro, a town near to Burgos, in the north east of Castilla y León province. Police made the arrest on Wednesday, January 25 in connection with the explosive packages sent back in November and early December of last year.

Making the arrest, Spain’s Ministry of the Interior released a statement saying, “This investigation remains open and a search of the suspect’s house is currently underway”.

The letters are believed to have been sent to strategic locations relating to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, in a violent protest against Spain’s support for Ukraine.

The news came just days after reports from US intelligence experts that the letter bombs had been sent by an ultra-nationalist, far-right group in Russia, tasked with sending the explosives by the Kremlin or other high-ranking officials.

BRINGING CHANGES: The law is to be tweaked.

Image Rommel Canlas / Shutterstock.com

Suspect was arrested in sleepy Miranda de Ebro in Castilla y León, in connection with the letter bomb campaign that shocked the country last December.

Photo credit: David Herraez Calzada

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 Mathieu Edwards, Partner,

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.

Blevins Franks

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.

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.

A TOTAL of 23 members of an alleged betting syndicate have been arrested on suspicion of fixing football games in the Royal Spanish Football Federation, the Gibraltar National League and the Andorra League. Among those arrested are several footballers who are suspected of having used their position to steer the outcome of games in which they participated in.

Football fixing

Some 30 football matches are being investigated.

The Musk effect

SOCIAL media giant, Twitter has seen sweeping changes since the arrival of new CEO and billionaire, Elon Musk, including thousands of lay-offs. And it appears that Musk’s radical vision for the transformation of the company has reached Spain.

The company’s headquarters in Spain had reported redundancies of more than 80 per cent of its workforce by Thursday, January 26, after lay-offs were made two days earlier. The social media platform had a small team in Spain of just 29, 24 of which have now been sacked.

The workers are set to leave the company’s Madrid headquarters from Wednesday, February 8 after coming to an agreement with bosses over redundancy. Spanish employment regulations mean that the employees will also receive a redundancy pay packet covering 33 days, instead of 20 as initially offered by the company.

The motion was originally announced by the UGT trade union in November, who said negotiations were set to open over the proposed laying-off of 26 of Twitter’s staff in Spain.

The changes are taking place as Musk seeks to change the way Twitter works.

These arrests took place in November 2022 in several Spanish provinces - Badajoz, Cadiz, Ciudad Real, Cordoba, Tenerife and in the Autonomous City of Ceutaand follow the arrest of 21 other members of the same criminal organisation in 2021.

Known as Operation Conifera, this investigation into match-fixing was carried out by the Spanish National Police in a joint operation with Europol and Interpol. A total of 30 football matches are currently being investigated in this case. The profits generated are estimated at over half a million euros.

Europol’s support was central in the development of the Spanish investigation. Europol’s European Financial and Economic Crime Centre has been providing continuous intelligence development and analysis to map out the different targets and their criminal activity.

Human rights record

Betty Henderson

THE European Commission has summoned representatives from Spain over their treatment of refugees arriving at their borders. Europe’s governing body issued the summons to representatives from several European countries including Greece, Portugal and Belgium, on Thursday, January 26.

Brussels say that Spanish authorities are currently failing to uphold their duties set out in international regulations to keep refugees safe on arrival in the country. The European Commission is set to give the countries a two month deadline to implement new legislation and safety guarantees for asylum seekers arriving.

If Spain and the other countries do not change their policies, the European Commission could take action including fi ­

Brit gang caught

By Peter McLaren­Kennedy

A COURT in Palma has said that prosecutors can proceed with their case to charge a gang of eight Brits who organised false food poisoning claims.

working relationship.

The eight Brits have not been named but are believed to be wellknown among the local expat community, and if found guilty could be sentenced to jail.

The European Commission has taken issue with Spain’s treatment of refugees, saying they must act in the next two months.

nancial penalties. A spokesperson explained, “The Commission is closely monitoring the way all member states incorporate European legislation into their national laws”.

European law states that refugees have the right to seek asylum in countries they arrive in and have been working for several years to create a European­wide policy to apply in every member state. Several European states are at odds with the decision, saying border control is a sovereign issue.

As reported in the local press on Wednesday, January 25, prosecutors intend to charge eight people with encouraging visitors to the island to report that they had been the subject of food poisoning. They were encouraged to do so in an effort to extort compensation from hotels and tour operators.

In total, some €200,000 is said to have been raised through fraudulent claims by the gang, who have been charged with aggravated fraud and criminal organisation.

The cases go back to 2016 and 2017 with British tourists staying at all ­ inclusive resorts targeted. The gang prepared the case for the ‘claimant’ showing that they had been ill during their stay.

A brother and sister are said to have been behind the idea of using a company they set up to send the information to a law firm in the UK with which they had a

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 halfhour 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.

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.

Photo credit: Casablanca Stock shutterstock.com

WHO pays Inheritance Tax in Spain?

The Inheritance Tax in Spain (IT) is a tax that must be paid by each of the heirs individually though standard form 650. This system is different, for instance, from the UK; where Inheritance Tax is paid out of the assets that form the estate.

In general, does Spain have a high Inheritance Tax?

Frequently asked questions about the Inheritance Tax in Spain

Yes, in comparison with the rest of the countries around us, the tax burden on inheritances in Spain is higher. The amount to be paid is influenced by many factors: the relationship between the deceased and the heir (the closer: parents and children,

grandchildren and grandparents, etc, the less you will pay), the amount and value of the assets to be inherited, the regulations applicable to the inheritance (central government regulations, autonomous community, etc).

What agency is in charge of processing Inheritance Tax in each case?

In Spain, the Inheritance Tax is a ‘State Tax’, that the government transfers to the Autonomous Communities. Each region has its own regulations. Depending on the circumstances of the deceased and the heirs (whether they are residents or non­residents) the regulations and applicable jurisdiction is different.

What is the deadline for paying Inheritance Tax in Spain?

The deadline for paying the Inheritance Tax in Spain is six months from the date of death. However, during the first five months, it is possible to request an extension of another six months (one year total). In all cases (ie whether an extension has been requested

or not) from the sixth month onwards, late payment interest will be payable.

If there is a legal dispute between the heirs, what happens to the deadline for paying the tax?

If an inheritance ends up in Court, it is necessary to notify the competent Tax Authority depending on the Region. Once notified, the deadline for payment will be suspended until the end of the judicial process.

What happens when the Inheritance Tax is paid after the deadline?

If payment is made after the deadline (after the sixth month, if no extension has been requested; after one year, if an extension has been requested), in addition to the

interest for late payment, a series of surcharges established in the Tax Law will be due.

If the amount to be paid is very high, can I request an instalment payment?

Yes. However, the conditions will vary depending on the Region. In the Valencian Region, under certain circumstances, you can request a fiveyear payment plan.

Is it true that debts can be deducted from the inheritance?

Yes, from the assets to be inherited (a house, a bank account, a car, etc) it is necessary to subtract any debts that the deceased may have had. For instance, a debt with the tax authorities. Burial and funeral expenses can also be deducted.

Why do some areas of Spain pay more inheritance tax than others?

This happens because each Region of Spain (Autonomous Communities) can set its own

deductions and allowances. For this reason, in much cheaper to inherit under the regulation of regions like Andalucia or Cantabria, rather than the Canary Islands or Asturias.

How much tax is paid approximately in the Valencian Region?

The Region of Valencia applies a progressive rate, ranging from 7.65 per cent to 34 per cent. For instance, if you inherit assets worth €150,000, the taxable amount will be approximately €22,000. Although to this amount you could still apply allowances related to kindship, disability, etc.

What are the most important deductions in the Valencian Region?

In the Valencian Region, among others, there is a 95 per cent deduction for the main residence (with a limit of €150,000), the deduction for kinship (which allows that, for example, from parents to children, no deduction is paid for the first €100,000) and others that we have already analysed in detail previously.

A NEW video of a meeting between the Spanish King and Queen and the Iranian Ambassador to Spain shows the usual diplomatic greetings between the parties, except for one thing. The Iranian Ambassador, Hassan Ghashghavi snubbed Queen Letizia, failing to shake her hand.

The video of the meeting took place on Tuesday, January 24, although many commentators say the scene looks straight from the 1950s or earlier. In it, Ghashghavi reaches his hand out to King Felipe, who shakes it, then briefly nods at Queen Letizia before moving off camera.

While the now ­ viral

Royal snub

footage came as a surprise to some, others have said it is symptomatic of the Iranian regime and its recent renegade on women’s rights.

However, the policy has been around for much longer. Since the country’s Islamic Revolution of 1979, men in the country have not been allowed to shake women’s hands in public.

Angered viewers took to Twitter to express their disdain writing messages like, “Look, I’m a Republican but humiliating Letizia like this just for being a woman should tell us everything we need to know about him.”

Struggle in Spain

SPAIN’S employment crisis reared its head again as the country registered the worst end­of­year employment data since 2013.

The figures released by the country’s National Institute for Statistics (INE), on Thursday, January 26 showed a loss of 87,900 jobs between September and December 2022.

During 2022, 278,900 jobs were created but the huge job losses recorded have damaged the country’s overall employment rate.

Unemployment in Spain now stands at 12.87 per cent, with more than

three million unemployed people in the country. The rise is partially due to an almost ­ standstill in job creation which fell to just 1.38 per cent of positions in the fourth quarter of 2022.

Many of the jobs that were lost during 2022 were in the hospitality industry due to inflation and in the agricultural industry due to a bad harvest.

It’s not all doom and gloom though. Experts say inflation caused the dip in job offers as companies raced to cut costs, signalling a possible end to

the crisis in coming months as inflation is brought back under control. Employment also in ­

creased in some sectors during 2022, including for foreign residents and women.

Money League

WHILST football fans think about goals and wins, Deloitte has published the Football Money League 2023. This is the annual analysis of club revenue in the world of football, including key aspects such as commercial revenue and fan attendance.

Real Madrid and FC Barcelona are positioned within the Top 10 of the list, in second and seventh position respectively, with both clubs significantly increasing their revenues compared to the previous analysis.

Real Madrid has experienced 11 per cent revenue growth, while FC Barcelona has increased its revenues by 10 per cent compared to the previous year. Real Madrid is positioned for the fifth consecutive year among the top three clubs. The revenues of both Real Madrid and FC

Barcelona account for 21 per cent of the €6.3 billion generated by the 10 most important clubs in the study.

Within the Top 15 of the report, Atletico de Madrid stands out in position 12 and with a significant increase in revenue of 18 per cent. This has allowed them to climb up one position, and position themselves at the same level as Juventus and only €40 million from the Top 10.

Spain closed 2022 with a steep drop in new job creation due to inflation and market pressures.

Photo credit: Alexandre Rotenberg shutterstock.com

€183 million is how much Justin Bieber has sold his music rights for 290 songs.

Jihadist arrested in Girona

AS reported by Spain’s Ministry of the Interior on Friday, January 27, a jihadist arrested in the city of Girona on Wednesday January 25, intended to carry out a massive machine-gunning of tourists on Benidorm’s beaches.

Fath Allah Benhachem

Gharrass, a 23-year-old Spanish national of Moroccan origin was jailed without bail. The arrest of Benhachem was a direct result of a warning from the FBI in America.

Betty Henderson

SPAIN is well-known for its lengthy life expectancy and the good news is, it keeps rising. And the latest data from the Spanish National Institute of Statistics (INE), and the EM-Electromania Group breaks down the life expectancy by autonomous region, with Madrid in first place.

The most recent data collected from 2021, released on Thursday, January 26 show an increase in life expectancy

They warned the Spanish security forces of his degree of radicalism and proselytism in favour of Daesh on social networks. He was also known to

be active on the Dark Web, the deep network used by criminals and delinquents which is beyond the reach of the majority of internet users.

Lengthy lifespan

from 2020 when the Covid-19 pandemic struck, to a stunning 83.07 years. This was an increase on 2020’s average of 82.33 years, but remained slightly below the 2019 average of 83.58 years.

When broken down by autonomous region, Madrid leads by longevity of life expectancy. The Community of Madrid has a staggering life expectancy of 84.6 years. Sec-

ond on the list was Navarra with an average of 84.3 years, while Castilla y León came third with an average of 83.9 years.

At the other end of the scale, overseas territories, Ceuta and Melilla had the lowest life expectancies at 78.5 and 79.8 years respectively. They were the only regions to have life expectancies below the age of 80.

Specialised National Police and Guardia Civil officers carried out the operation during which the jihadist was detained in the Santa Eugenia neighbourhood of Girona.

It is believed that his intention was to record himself machine-gunning bathers on the beaches in Benidorm and then post the footage on social media networks of the Islamic State. Although no substances were discovered during a search of his home, the detainee was known to have downloaded manuals online with which to train himself in the use of weapons and explosives.

Credit: Twitter@policia

ARRESTED: The suspected jihadist in Girona.

20.5 million are employed in Spain as of 2022.

Top guitarist passes

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

Dementia diagnosis

Samwell­Smith 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 low ­ traffic 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 Mayor 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.

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.

Anthony ‘Top’ Topham.

Image sites.google.com

Bros to make comeback

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 54­year­old 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 brothers 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.

By Peter McLaren­Kennedy AMBULANCE

workers from at least five

NHS Trusts are to strike again on February 6, a day in which the UK could see the largest­ever strike of health workers in the UK. The strike has been called for the same day nurses from the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) will walk out according to a local news source on Friday, January 20. Further strikes have been called following statements from unions suggesting the government has not shown any signs that a resolution can be reached.

The government is said to be holding firm on its belief that the pay rises union members are looking for are not affordable, whilst the unions have said mem­

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,

Largest ever strike

the table. Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham has criticised the government for its stance on pay negotiations saying: “Rather than act to protect the NHS and negotiate an end to the dispute, the government has disgracefully chosen to demonise ambulance workers.”

bers are willing to continue striking until such a time as a sensible offer is placed on

The announcement of the strike came as it was announced the government was setting up a task force to look at the future of the NHS, one that has been criticised for including lobbyists for private health providers.

Reckless jet skiers

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."

2,947,228 inhabitants live in Madrid, Spain’s capital city.

Nurse and ambulance strike begins.

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

Image Jessica Girvan / Shutterstock.com

Image Fred Duval / Shutterstock.com

A Solitary world record £60 billion HS2 project

Report by Peter McLaren­Kennedy

A BRITISH murderer sentenced to life for a double killing and who then murdered two inmates has broken the world record for solitary confinement.

According to a local newspaper on Saturday, January 21, 69­year­old Robert Mawdsley has been in solitary for 16,400 consecutive days. Mawdsley, who was imprisoned in Wakefield, killed two fellow prisoners in 1978. Afterwards, he is believed to have told a guard: “There’ll be two short on the roll call.”

Following that incident, he was placed in solitary and in 1983 he was moved to a purposebuilt cell after all prison staff refused to see him unaccompanied.

The 5.5 by 4.5 metre cell is slightly larger than the average and is fitted with large bulletproof windows. It is kitted out with a concrete bed,

MILLIONS of people may have had their details exposed in a cyberattack on JD Sports that has affected anyone who placed an order with the company between November 2018 and October

2020. According to a report by a news source on Monday, January 30 some 10 million people could be affected as the breach includes all JD Sports brands.

metal toilet and sink that are bolted to the floor and a table and chair made of compressed cardboard. Mawdsley spends 23 hours out of every 24 locked in the cell that he is said to have described as “like being buried alive in a coffin” and is fed through a small slot in the steel door.

JD cyberattack

The company has said that details that may have been exposed include personal details such as names, phone numbers, email and delivery addresses as well as the last four digits of credit and debit cards. JD Sports has said it does not

MINISTERS have refused to deny reports that the £60 billion HS2 project won’t result in the service linking the north with central London.

According to a local news source on Friday, January 27 ministers were in the midst of discussions that could see the link with Euston station being delayed significantly or scrapped altogether.

A review ordered by ministers last year in light of the need to cut costs is due to report shortly but the Department for Transport has already warned that “tough decisions” would need to be taken. One of the options that

keep full card details and it doesn’t appear that passwords were stolen, however, they have written to customers warning them to be on the lookout for scam emails, texts and calls:

An email sent to customers said: “We take the protection of customer data extremely seriously and we are sorry this has happened.”

is said to be on the table is the delay of the link by between two and five years. Another is the scrapping of the Birmingham to Crewe and Manchester legs of the rail link. Consideration is also being given to building a new hub at Old Oak Common in West London, which would see passengers having to disembark and catch the new Elizabeth line to reach the city centre.

British Army not at top-level

A SENIOR US general has apparently told the UK’s Defence Secretary Ben Wallace that the British Army is no longer regarded as a top­level fighting force.

The unnamed officer is believed to have told the minister that decades of savings needed to be reversed if the country was going to regain its fighting status, particularly in light of the war in Ukraine. Sources within the ministry speaking to a news source on Monday, January 30 said: “Bottom line... it’s an entire service unable to protect the UK and our allies for a decade.” The same sources warn that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was in danger of failing as a wartime leader unless he took urgent action to address the growing threat from Russia. They say that the reduction in the size of the army needed to be halted and a further £3 billion needed to be invested in the military. But that may be easier said than done with the UK facing extraordinary budget pressures.

In solitary confinement.

Robert MawdsleyImage Pinterest

36.3 million hectolitres - the quantity of wine produced in Spain in 2022.

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

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 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

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.

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 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.”

A threat to kill

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.

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.

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.

Mystery surrounds rescue

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

Gas field closes

previous six 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 Baltic ­ were also within reach.

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 cover of darkness, during a huge storm. The Polish police said the divers did not have the permits to dive or to drive the boat, nor did they have the necessary insurance. Despite this, the three men were not arrested.

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.”

Breeding ban

THE Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality Minister in the Netherlands, Piet Adema told a local news source on Friday, January 20 that dog breeds that suffer breathing problems and who suffer from other problems due to their small skulls and snouts will be banned in the very near future. This includes popular breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, Maltese, Boxers, Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas and Pomeranians.

Cats who also suffer from pain and lameness such as those bred to have folding ears are also likely to be included in the ban, although Adema emphasised that no definitive list has yet been agreed upon. He said that what people often find cute is harmful to the animal adding: “These people often have the best of intentions, but often don’t know that animals can suffer permanently. Dogs with a snout that is too short, for example, have to constantly gasp for breath.”

The proposed ban on dogs and cats has been widely welcomed by veterinarians and animal protection charities.

DIVERS: Found in icy waters.

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

Sanction strike

IRAN’S Foreign Ministry has blacklisted 22 individuals and three entities from the European Union as tensions escalate. Tehran announced the sanctions, accusing the European groups of “supporting terrorism” and “stoking unrest” in the country.

The sanctions were announced on Wednesday, January 25 alongside sanctions on a British entity and eight officials. The measures include banning individuals from entering Iran and asset confiscation within the country. They come as European politicians and public figures have expressed concern about the state of human rights and women’s rights in the country.

Those sanctioned in Europe included several members of the European Parliament, executives from French magazine Charlie Hebdo, military officials, police and military leaders.

The entities blacklisted by Tehran included the European Friends of Israel in the European Parliament, a Jewish community radio in Paris and Heberger, a construction company accused of creating chemical weapons used during the Iran­Iraq war.

An EU attempt to designate the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp as a terrorist organisation is currently facing legal difficulties.

War crime case

JUDGES from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), have ruled that the case against Russia for war crimes and the shooting down of the flight MH17 in 2014 can proceed to trial, saying that parts of eastern Ukraine in Donbas were under Russian control between 2014 and the invasion last year.

The decision was announced on Wednesday, January 25, finally moving towards bringing justice for the victims killed and their families.

The 2014 grounding of the Malaysian Airlines flight MH17, with a missile shot by Russian controlled forces killed all 298 passengers and crew on board.

tion on Human Rights when the events occurred, meaning that they can be tried for violating the convention.

There are an additional 8,500 incidents pending review by the court since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The Netherlands has been a prominent backer of the case reaching trial for breaches of the human rights convention as the country accounted for 196 of the passengers on board the flight.

Judges at the ECHR say that Russia was still a party in the European Conven ­

Alpine Ski World Cup

By Peter McLaren­Kennedy

TICKETS are now available for the Alpine Ski World Cup Finals 2023, which will take place in Andorra in March.

Spectators will be able to reserve seats for the main events by visiting Grandvalira costing between €15 and €20 each depending on the event. Children under the age of 12 will be admitted free.

A French exit

Betty Henderson

FRANCE has committed to withdrawing its troops from Burkina Faso after military leaders demanded them to leave. The French Foreign Ministry released a statement on Wednesday, January 25 that a previous military deal from 2018 had expired and it would withdraw troops within one month.

France currently has between 200 and 400 special forces troops in the Western African nation and its former colony, Burkina Faso. The Sahel region of Western Africa is seeing an increase in violence from armed groups and Burkina Faso wants to reduce the presence of militia groups in its country.

Armed groups linked with al­Qaeda and ISIS began a military offensive in 2015, sending fighters into already poverty­stricken Burkina Faso from neighbouring Mali. But now, the country’s government said that it wants to defend itself against armed groups on its territory and does not require assistance from France. The French presence in Burkina Faso has long been the subject of protests in Burkina Faso as the French troops have not taken any decisive action to defend against the violence. French troops could be moved to another part of Africa, such as Niger.

Tickets for the opening ceremony cost just €5 with all proceeds going to the base ski training programme of the Andorran Ski Federation (FAE).

VIP tickets are also available for those who want the pleasure of enjoying the event along with catering with these costing around €200.

For avid skiers there are also VIP tickets available to watch the events from

the slopes and on your skies, these tickets costing around €300.

Five per cent of the proceeds will go to ‘Hi arribarem!’, and Special Olympics Andorra.

The competition will give spectators the chance to see the best in the world, close up and within driving distance of towns in and around Spain and central Europe.

The wreckage of flight MH17 is guarded by a fighter after it was grounded by Russian forces on July 14, 2014.

Denis Kornilov / shutterstock.com

200,000 homes across Spain have solar panels and are self-sufficient in electricity.

UKRAINIAN officials have issued a statement suggesting that the country could boycott the Olympics in Paris in 2024 if Russian and Belarusian athletes are allowed to participate.

The Ukrainian Minister for Sport, Vadim Guttsait made the comments on Friday, January 27 after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced that they would “explore a pathway” for athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete in the global sporting event as neutral athletes, in spite of their countries’ actions.

Guttsait made his country’s position clear in a Facebook post writing that while there is a “war

in Ukraine, Russian and Belarusian athletes should not be allowed in international competitions.” He added “If we are not listened to, I do not rule out the possibility that we will refuse and boycott participating in the Olympics.”

Belarus is one of Russia’s biggest allies and has supported the country in the invasion of Ukraine, crucially hosting troops and weapons on Belarusian land.

The inclusion of athletes in international competitions is a contentious point with the IOC’s official line being “No athlete should be prevented from competing just because of their passport.”

AUTHORITIES in Austria have said they found six British ­ born children all under the age of five living in an abandoned wine cellar.

Olympic boycott Children found in wine cellar Bear breaks hearts

JUAN CARRITO, a rare brown bear who became famous across Italy and the world for his visits to sleepy mountain villages in the Abruzzo region has died after being hit by a car.

The three­year­old Marsican bear passed away on Monday, January 23.

The bear, known affectionately as ‘Juan Carrito’ was hit by a car in the town of Castel

di Sangro. The bear became famous for his outings into small villages in Abruzzo, attracting global fame after he wolfed down a whole batch of biscuits in a local bakery in 2021.

The bear faced repeated attempts to rewild him before several periods in an enclosure due to the risk to himself and the community, but remained a social character.

The regional President, Marco Marsilio took to Facebook to express the whole community’s sense of loss at the death of an incredible creature who brought great joy to many writing, “His loss saddens not only Abruzzo, but the whole world that discovered Abruzzo and the beauty of bears through the numerous videos of him since he was a cub.”

A UK news source announced on Saturday, January 28 that they were being detained in an illegal hideout owned by a 54 ­ year ­ old man and his 40 ­ year ­ old wife in the village of Orbitz. Police broke into the man’s home after he pepper sprayed social workers who had tried to visit the home. Concerns had been raised after the man was seen with young children and had purchased at least five such cellars in the area.

It is understood firearms were found in the possession of the unnamed man who had moved to the home some months ago. Police are said to be looking into the legality of the firearms but have in the

meantime released the man saying the situation appeared to be of no risk

3.5 million packets of contraband tobacco were seized by the Guardia Civil in one day.

to the children. Although the cellars were not fit for living in, the police say they found no evidence of sexual abuse and they did not appear to be neglected. The children were taken into care with the couple unable to confirm their identities. It appears the children were born in England but it is not known whether they are British citizens.

Austrian Polizei broke into the home.

Hereford Meat on Fire is No1

IN a perfect spot on the seafront in lovely Altea, Hereford Meat on Fire is the number one choice for grilled­to­perfection steaks. The restaurant is housed in an old building with many original features (check out the amazing colourful floor tiles), with a cosy indoor dining room and a sunny, spacious terrace, ideal for lunches with family and friends, romantic dinners and all kinds of events and celebrations. The view is out of this world.

This is no run ­ of ­ the ­ mill beachside eatery, but rather the latest passion project of Jesper Hon, founder of an organic Hereford cattle and vegetable farm in Latvia in 2000. Success came from his belief that happy animals produce higher quality, tastier meat, business boomed, and he soon had a farm­to­table butcher’s shop in Riga with a kitchen to cook customers’ purchases.

Now in Altea, Jesper has created a menu and an ambience that offers foodies a fabulous eating experience, with great dishes expertly prepared in com ­

JESPER HON: Has created a menu that offers a fabulous eating experience.

fortable surroundings against the magnificent backdrop of the sparkling bay. This new project was born when Jesper fell in love with Al tea and found this charming spot to open his latest Costa Blan ca restaurant (he also has one in Albir).

After some hard work to get the premises up to standard, he found the multinational professional team that now keeps everything running like clockwork and has been open since last summer.

As for the menu, as you might expect,

this is a meat lover’s paradise, but with a surf and turf twist. You may not have considered ordering a ribeye steak with prawn cream sauce, but Jesper assures me that it is a taste sensation. The signature dish? That has to be the tomahawk. A meat expert, Jesper buys from Spanish and Argentinian suppliers, and naturally, only the best will do.

And if beef isn’t your thing, there are chicken and fish dishes, salads and sandwiches to please everyone, in fact, Hereford Meat on Fire is a great choice for all kinds of light lunches, sumptuous dinners, birthdays, anniversaries, everyday luxury and special treats.

There is a full range of Spanish and selected New Zealand, Italian and French wines. Wine buffs will be interested to learn that a special wine­tasting events will take place at the restaurant on Friday February 10, guided by an expert sommelier.

These will be cosy evenings with a small tasting menu and live music.

THE 11th edition of the Benidorm International Organ Festival 2023 has begin.

From January to December, Benidorm will offer a monthly concert (except in summer) where the public can enjoy one of the best organs of the Valencian Community.

The first concert took take place on January 27.

The councillor for Culture, Jaime Jesus Perez, said the event, “was a highly recognised festival at a national and international level.The last edition brought together around 2,000 people but this year will be bigger and better as we are offering nine concerts. Attendance to the festival is free and the location comfortably accommodates 300 people.”

Juan Antonio Espinoa, a professor from the Alicante Conservatory Music School, confirmed: “The church has an organ that was built in 2012 and is one of the best in the Valencian Community. It is

Steps in solidarity Organ Festival

GET ready to move your hips in a charity walk around Benissa to raise money for a local volunteer’s hip surgery. Project4All are raising money to help their loyal volunteer, Tomek to have two hip surgeries which will cost a total of €9,500.

A ghostly twist

Osteonecrosis, a disease causing dead bone tissue in his hips, as a result of a difficult life living on the streets. Now a volunteer with the group, Project4All want to give him a new spring in his step.

A UNIQUE musical event is set to arrive in Alicante on Tuesday, March 21 after a successful tour of the UK and Ireland.

an instrument of great proportions and musical possibilities owning three manual keyboards comprising of 56 notes each, plus another pedal­board and 1,990 sound tubes."

Parish priest, Juan Antonio Gonzalez, pointed out that: “The church has screens on which, during

the concerts, the image of the organist is projected so that attendees can see how their hands dance on the keyboards.” All concerts will commence at 8.00pm and will take place at the Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana of Benidorm, Placa de Castelar, 1, 03501.

EUROVISION SONG Contest fans will be pleased to hear that Benidorm Fest 2023 preparations are well and truly underway. This year’s edition is being held until February 4. It will offer a larger capacity than in previous years and have three galas: two semi­finals and a grand final. Spain’s largest state­owned public media company, RTVE, confirmed “The Benidorm Fest has managed to draw international attention with the selection format and involves millions of

The walk is around the streets of Benissa on Saturday, February 4. Walkers will meet at 9am for a series of walks covering five kilometres each. Volunteers from Project4All, who are organising the event are aiming to walk a total of 100 kilometres in an incredible fitness feat.

The walk aims to raise money for Tomek to have two surgeries to help fight

Project4All works in the Valencia area to support the homeless, hungry and vulnerable people in need.

Project4All have created an online fundraising page for donations at: www.go fundme.com/f/new­hips­fortomek?utm_campaign=p_cp +share ­ sheet&utm_con tent=undefined&utm_medi um=copy_link_all&utm_sour ce=customer&utm_term=undefined .

Pre Eurovision

young people. The event has reached a record audience which is unprecedented in recent years.

“The event has managed to generate a movement around Eurovision that brings together all audiences, from the elderly to the young. The voting system will be the same as last year: 50 per cent of the votes will be determined by a professional jury, with great inter­

The Rock Orchestra is an 11piece band that performs rock classics in a breathtaking candlelight setting in extraordinary performances that have earned the group global acclaim and followers across the world. The musicians put a classic and ghostly twist on some of the biggest 21st century Rock and Metal hits . The group’s Alicante performance will be held at Sala The One from 7pm on the night. Tickets start at €27 from: www.event brite.es/e/entradas­la­orquestadel­rock­a­la­luz­de­las­velas­ali cante­464148128547?aff=ebdss bcitybrowse&keep_tld=1.

national weight and presided over by Nacho Cano; and the remaining 50 per cent will come from the opinion of the public. Half of this last percentage will be determined by the tele­vote and the other half will be determined by a dermoscopic jury. Benidorm Fest 2023 has put 3,000 tickets on sale, 1,000 for each gala, so that Euro fans can be in the audience.

Tickets to enjoy this Spanish Eurovision pre­selection can be purchased at entradasatualcance.com

One of the best organs.

Image: Peter Togel / Shutterstock.com

Gandia’s music month

Betty Henderson

GANDIA is currently hosting a four week varied international music month, featuring a selection of musical events blending Mediterranean, canso and jazz styles. The Hostes Music Festival runs every other weekend until Saturday, February 25.

Performers, Esther and Clara Andrés will take to the stage at Gandia’s Teatre del Raval on Saturday, February 11, followed by a fusion performance by Marisa Valle Ruso on Saturday, February 25.

In addition to the musical performances, the theatre is also hosting a photography exhibition until Friday, February 10. The ‘Dones en Lluita’ exhibition has been curated by human rights organisation, Amnesty International and shows women across the world in their struggle for equal human rights.

The theatre is also holding a charity tapas

event during the Hostes Music Festival serving up delicious culinary delights in aid of local charities.

Tickets for events in the programme start at €6 and range up to €18. Tickets are available for purchase online from the theatre’s website: https://teatreravalgandia.org.

Skyline Film Festival

PREPARATIONS are underway for Benidorm’s biggest film festival. The Skyline Film Festival returns to the city this year for a whole week, from Saturday, March 25 until Saturday, April 1. This year’s complete programme has yet to be released, but favourite activities including screenings, technique and film­making workshops, talks and competitions are sure to fea­

ture during the week. This year will be the seventh edition of the event and it’s set to be delivered in­person and online to allow global audiences to participate. The event also closes each year with an awards ceremony, recognising the best short films in each section of the competition with prizes, including a top prize of more than €13,000.

FRIDAY, February 11 might seem like just another ordinary Friday, but it’s ‘International Get Out Your Guitar Day’! And what better way to celebrate than with an acoustic guitar night in Alcalali.

During the concert­turnedworkshop, two international guitar stars, Heiko Bloemers and Sönke Meinen will dazzle an audience of guitar lovers. The passionate guitarists are warming up to play a varied and exciting setlist, featuring the challenging ‘fingerstyle’ technique, where one guitarist emulates a whole band playing at the same time with just a guitar!

Meinen is a globallyrenowned guitarist who has toured three continents and won prizes on the world stage for his incredible abilities. Bloemers is a self­taught gui­

Guitar night

tarist who plays nearly exclusively original content, based on his life experiences.

Organisers promise an unforgettable evening of guitar greatness at the “one time opportunity to see these two guitar virtuosos perform together.”

Doors open at the Dome Center, (La Cúpula) in Alcalali for the evening at 6.30pm, ahead of a 7pm concert start. Tickets cost €15 by reserving in advance by Bizum to 647 267 293

Alternatively, tickets cost €20 on the door.

Language exchange

ARE you struggling to learn the lingo? Do you need to practise your Spanish? The best way to learn is to practise with native speakers who in turn can practise their English with you. With free entry there is no excuse not to join the interna­

tional community for a Language Exchange, Intercambio de Idiomas, on Tuesday evenings at 7.00pm at the Robin’s Irish Pub on Calle Virgen del Socorro, 66, 03002 in Alicante. For more information pop in to the bar or call (+34) 632 777 678.

A variety of vibrant and exciting musical and theatre events at the Hostes Festival.

Two passionate international guitar lovers will take to the stage to mark International Get Out Your Guitar Day in Alcalali.

Photo credit: The Dome Center- La Cúpula, Alicante, Spain (Via Facebook)

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

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.

By Clinica Britannia

Teeth whitening

DO you want a smile that is bright and dazzling looking back at you in the mirror, then professional teeth whitening may be the answer for you. It is the most popular, affordable cosmetic dentistry procedure available and can amazingly change the look of your teeth.

Almost everyone experiences some teeth darkening or discolouring, this can be due to food and drink, medication, or just general ageing. Fortunately, now it’s easy to reverse these issues with tooth whitening.

Professional tooth whitening is a permanent non­invasive dental cosmetic procedure that can have a powerful impact on your overall appearance.

Giving you that fantastic smile, you are looking for can increase your confidence no end.

The treatment can be performed both in­office by using a powerful and effective gel or in the comfort of your own home with custom made trays

Mood enhancer

and gel. With professional treatment you will not suffer any damage or sacrifice the strength of your teeth. Results can be seen within as little as an hour, and your teeth can become up to 10 shades lighter than their original colour.

PERFUMES with a slight hint or heavy overtones of vanilla are making a comeback.

Apart from vanilla’s classic role as a food flavouring, the 90s were the last time the aroma had a big moment even though ­ for some ­ it never went away.

Who can still remember when Guerlain’s Jicky was a heady fusion of vanilla and lavender before EU directives made all the great parfumiers modify their formulas?

Some 90s perfumes gave vanilla a bad name and the impression that it had to be

clinging, cloying and much too sweet, but this need no longer be the case if you hit on what turns out to be right for you.

That shouldn’t be difficult now that leading perfume brands are pushing vanilla once more. Yves Saint Laurent’s Libre and Eilish by Billie Eilish are giving it an up­todate edge while Kayali Vanille Royal has become a huge favourite thanks to TikTok.

The fragrance, which has already amassed 105 million views on the platform, was created by Mona Kattan and

Gabriela Chelariu, a senior perfumer at Switzerlandbased Firmenich, and it has received ecstatic reviews.

“We recently did a worldwide study based on 4,000 consumers from 11 countries, asking them which ingredients they associated with which feelings,” Cheliu told the online publication, Bustle.

“Depending on the country, consumers found vanilla joyful, romantic, comforting, relaxed, or sensual, but they all agreed that it was always something that enhanced their mood.”

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.

If you want to give your confidence a boost, then contact your Dentist who can give advice on what tooth whitening method would be best suited to you.

BRIGHT SMILE: Results within as little as an hour.

VANILLA: Arrived in Spain from Mexico in 1516.

Photo credit: CC/Malcolm Manners

HEAD COLD: Comfort food will help you get over it

Photo credit: Pixabay/Sweet Louise

By Clinica Britannia

Effective acne treatment

My 17 ­ year ­ old son has acne and we have tried every home remedy, but it has not helped. It has now started to negatively affect his self ­ confidence. Please give me some advice.

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when the hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells, usually appearing most prominently on the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulder areas.

It can cause whiteheads, blackheads or pimples and is most common amongst teenagers, though it can affect people of all ages. Hormonal changes such as puberty and menopause, certain medications, diet, and stress are some of the main factors that can cause the initial outbreaks.

Effective acne treatments are available, but acne can be persistent. The pimples and bumps heal slowly, and when one begins to go away, others seem to crop up. Depending on its severity, acne can cause emotional dis­

Appointments

tress, be the cause of bullying and leave prominent scarring to the skin. The earlier the treatment is started, the lower the risk of such problems. Some acnes can even be treated with specialised aesthetic treatments such as Platelet Rich Plasma ( PRP ) or mesotherapy.

Seek medical advice, they can advise on skin care and prescribe medication if necessary. Helping him to get his acne under control should in turn help positively improve his self­confidence.

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

Myth busted

BREAKFAST, we’re told, is the most important meal of the day.

To the relief of those who prefer a quick coffee, some nutritionists are questioning this golden rule.

Studies which pronounce breakfast ­ eaters as healthier are frequently due to other factors including sleep patterns, they say.

This first meal is not vital for waking up or kickstarting the day, Dr Federica Amati, a nutrition scientist recently agreed.

“The body clock secretes the chemicals that help us wake up and get out of bed whether we have breakfast or not,” she maintained.

A 2019 British Medical Journal review also busted the myth that breakfast is a must for weight­loss and this has since been backed up by studies which found that not eating first thing in the morning could actually assist weight loss.

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.

The north wind doth blow

MEGHAN MARKLE famously asked Kate Middleton to lend her some lip gloss, which we now know the Duchess of Cambridge was reluctant to hand over.

This wasn’t on a par with borrowing someone’s toothbrush, but there’s no denying that lip gloss is rather personal, even between sisters ­ inlaw.

And there’s no denying that Spain’s currently icy weather coupled with the effects of a gas ‘estufa’ or a log ­ burner means that everybody, royal or not, has sore lips.

Rather than slathering on lip gloss, most of us are turning to heavy ­ duty balm that’s formulated to prevent chapping, flaking, cracking and even bleeding in the very worst cases.

Forget the agreeable sensation of applying a light satiny gloss and use instead the less glamorous tubes and sticks that can

range from the cheap and cheerful to the frankly over­expensive.

Or do what YouTube influencer Charles Gross suggests and use olive oil instead.

According to Gross, any type will do as olive oil is a natural moisturiser and commonly found in skincare products.

Those who tried it found that their lips initially felt soft and nourished but soon noticed that the oil was absorbed quite rapidly, leaving the skin feeling quite dry. Subsequent applications produced the same sensation, they said.

The suggested solution of adding Vaseline a few minutes after applying the olive oil got better results, but the experience was not regarded as overwhelmingly pleasant. This got results, but it was generally agreed that it was more bother than it was worth and the best place for olive oil was the kitchen.

ACNE: Most commonly affects the face.

YOGA CLASS: Beneficial for people of all ages.

Flawed law

CASSANDRA NASH

SPAIN’S Sexual Freedom Law, passed last August, is known as the Only Yes means Yes law.

The need for change was made clear after an 18 ­ year ­ old girl was raped in 2016 by five men. Initially they were convicted of sexual abuse, receiving nine ­ year sentences after a video showed their victim immobile with closed eyes, giving judges the impression that she was fine with the situation.

For that reason, the new legislation has earned its Only Yes means Yes label as it replaces the old notion that in a rape situation, a woman must say No and put up a fight, possibly risking her life.

The new law promoted by Equality minister Irene Montero immediately ran into trouble because Spanish jurisprudence allows a convict to benefit retroactively from changes to legislation. Since the new law redefined sexual offences and their sentences, a number of offenders have successfully applied for reduced prison terms. Critics

of Montero, rather than the law, have pointed out that it was put together hastily and rushed through too quickly.

Pedro Sanchez, president of Spain’s PSOE­ Unidas Podemos coalition government, had assumed that the Supreme Court would come to the new law’s rescue. Instead the tribunal stood by the reductions, which it said were “obligatory.”

The government had already announced plans to tweak the Sexual Freedom Law, despite Montero’s rabid opposition, and as January came to an end, Sanchez made it clear that modifications would have to be made.

Aware that it cannot reverse the reduced sentences, an official statement from the Moncloa promised to “resolve the detected problems” in future rape and sexual abuse trials. No mention was made as to how this would be done, suggesting that it could prove to be less simple than it sounds.

Meanwhile, the Podemos party, to which Montero belongs, insisted that there was “still no agreement” over the solution. Does Montero, who always likes to have the last word, want it this time too?

SALLY UNDERWOOD POLITICAL ANIMAL Blame game

LAST week Matt Hancock was filmed being pushed and harassed by an angry member of the public.

Now while I think most people would probably admit to having some fairly dark thoughts about politicians some days, very few would agree that this behaviour came anywhere near to being acceptable.

Apart from anything else, by resorting to violence, Geza Tarjanyi, the man who shoved Hancock at a tube station, he ended up inciting sympathy for the former health secretary; something which he surely can’t have been trying to achieve.

Engaging in debate in some sort of meaningful way at a local event might have been a better way to go if what Tarjanyi really wanted was a chance of in some way holding Hancock to account.

When I first worked in parliament, I shared an office with a Liberal Democrat lord whose researcher had died saving him from a knife attacker.

Later, in the Commons, I worked in the office next to an MP who still had scars on his hands from when a woman

had attacked him with a knife at a constituency surgery.

In another MP’s office I worked in a colleague had to be physically scrubbed down by a team in hazmat suits after opening a letter containing what looked like anthrax.

It later turned out to be talcum powder and was part of a series sent to various MP’s offices, but it certainly wasn’t a good day for my colleague.

In recent years, Jo Cox and David Amess haven’t been as lucky in the threats against their lives.

The repeated, almost casual, reminders of violence against politicians I came across even in my short time in Parliament is a reminder that this isn’t always quite the cushy career we often consider it.

We all criticise politicians. We all think we can do better. Sometimes (even often) we’re right.

But when we start to look at them as a whole different breed of human beings from us, and consider behaviour we would normally never engage in as being acceptable, like Tarjanyi, we start the descent down an extremely slippery slope that ends in tragedy more often than we’re perhaps aware of.

Sallysopinionsareherownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

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.

A trifling matter

LINDA HALL

IN the past the Spanish weren’t big on desserts which, incidentally I refuse to refer to as puddings.

Puddings aka desserts bring meals to an end in cold climates, but not Spain where even rice pudding translates into laconic Arroz con leche.

When I first lived here, the most you could expect at the end of a meal was fruit, ice cream, the aforementioned rice pudding or if you were pushing the boat out, a Pijama whose name has nothing to do with nightwear.

Instead, it is a misheard version of the Peach Melba requested by US sailors when the Sixth Fleet visited Spain in 1951 once General Franco became the lesser of two evils as the Cold War freeze set in.

Peach Melba it wasn’t, but an improvement on the further option of flan which was a caramel cream, not a sponge­based delight oozing with fruit and cream.

My first summer here coincided with

a protracted visit from my adolescent brothers ­ in ­ law who lived in Madrid. It was a rude awakening for all concerned as until then I’d never had to look after myself, let alone a grown man and two hungry teenagers.

My husband helped out with the cooking occasionally but I wanted to try my hand too, and one day decided to make them liver and bacon. Done in the oven the way my mother always cooked it, this was possibly not the wisest choice at the height of a Costa Blanca summer.

Manolo, the youngest of the brothers, looked at it in confusion before picking up a greyish chunk of liver between two fastidious fingers while asking incredulously, “What on earth is this?”

I redeemed myself by attempting a trifle which, although I say it myself, went down a treat and Manolo, now a university professor in Latin America, has never forgotten it.

Cravenly he now denies all knowledge of liver and bacon, although on reflection, perhaps that was a meal that’s best forgotten.

Olaf Clayton of BBF.

LET THEM EAT CAKE? NOT IN THE OFFICE!

NORAJOHNSON BREAKINGVIEWS

THERE are always zillions of press articles trying to debunk commonly­held 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, hang on! That earlier study was flawed, they’re actually bad for you: too much sugar (like in cakes. Remember ‘Cakegate’?) Next month, they’re good for you again; they contain a newlyidentified chemical that reacts with an amino acid/enzyme/protein in such a way that scientists are only now starting to comprehend. And next month, sorry! Those findings were overhasty; they’re still bad for you. Frankly, practically everything that

feels good or tastes good is probably finally going to somehow make you ill anyway.

Trouble is, this ‘research’ can mean differ­

Should I get divorced in Spain?

CONSULAR MATTERS

THE other day I was driving back from the office, and I was listening to a well ­ known radio station and there was an advert saying something like get divorced in the UK, not Spain, as it’s easier.

Well as a lawyer this made me think. Well, yes if you both consent and you’re from the United Kingdom then why not?

The only caveat I would put on this is remember that now the United Kingdom has left the EU post Brexit it is much more difficult to enforce an order made by a UK court in Spain. If you have a good relationship with your soon to be ex, then choose this route.

Now on to the messy contested

divorcees and I’ve seen a huge number in the last 34 years.

Depending on whom I represent and what assets they have and where they are located it could be much better to get divorced in Spain. Why is that? Well Spanish legal fees are cheaper and in some circumstances one party could be awarded significantly less than they would be awarded by a UK court.

So if you’re considering getting divorced or you find yourself on the receiving end of a divorce petition here in Spain, get in touch with one of our English ­ speaking Spanish qualified lawyers.

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Marisa Moreno Castillo Consul for Denmark and Senior Lawyer at Just Law Solicitors. www.justlawsolicitors.com • contact@justlawsolicitors.com

ent 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’...

What we need to remember above all, however, is that the diet industry is a multibillion pound one that constantly needs to reinvent itself in order to keep us handing over our dosh. That’s what is behind the majority of these ‘reports’. What faddy diets do is sell lots of books to the easily influenced and fill up magazine/newspaper space. Common sense doesn’t make the snake oil brigade any money and so it generally isn’t encouraged. It’s not rocket science to know how to eat healthily. The only thing we really need to bear in mind is that people do vary, and that some people have an intolerance or allergy to certain foods. Some feel ill if they consume carrots or bananas. Others avocados or watermelon. Odd, but true.

And there we have it, definitive proof of what to do and what not to do! But wait. Aren’t ‘reports’ like these plastered everywhere all the time, contradicting each other and offering basically zero science? How many articles on food analysis do we need?

The problem is that the myths and facts are often all mixed up. Each author, physician or study gives a view that collides with another’s so that one person’s myth is another’s facts.

It’s not unusual for research to produce conflicting results, particularly when the studies are small. It’s better to step back and look at the bigger picture. It’s important that neither nutritionists nor the public are swayed by one study that confirms their fears or, at the other extreme, another that validates their enthusiasm. Look to the middle ground, where most results are to be found.

Basically, almost all food is OK in moderation and moderate exercise is good for us. Nothing is new, it seems.

Meanwhile I’m off to the gym for my regular 90­minute 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 Cudeca cancer charity.

Nora Johnson’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

Nora’s latest thriller.

Noraistheauthorofpopularpsychological suspenseandcrimethrillersandafreelancejournalist.

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,

Seizures are not always epilepsy

TOO many times when dogs and cats have epileptic seizures they are given anticonvulsant medications without having completed a diagnostic plan. They are treated as if they have primary epilepsy, but there are a number of reasons that your dog may have a seizure ranging from metabolic diseases to epilepsy.

Your veterinarian will first perform a physical exam, as well as bloodwork to assess your dog’s cell counts and internal organ function. If this bloodwork does not show any abnormalities that would explain the neurologic signs, your veterinarian will perform infectious disease testing to rule out infections that could be responsible for your dog’s neurologic signs. If these initial tests are normal and no obvious causes for the neurologic abnormalities are found, your veterinarian will likely refer you to a veterinary neurologist. The neurologist will likely perform two additional tests: MRI and CSF analysis.

Early detection of these pathologies other than primary epilepsy is essential for the success of its treatment.

The only way to rule out intracranial causes is by performing the Magnetic Resonance test.

If your dog or cat needs an MRI: Centro Veterinario de Diagnóstico por Imagen de Levante C/Los arcos 23 Cuidad Quesada Rojales Tel: 966 716 176 ­ 609 779 109

www.resonanciaveterinaria.es

Cat skincare

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

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

Wrapping up

THE cold snap in weather across Spain has caused problems for us as hu mans, 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 ad vice 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, particularly if your dog doesn’t have much fat or fur.

• Size matters

Small dogs like chihuahuas, short ­ haired 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 per­

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.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

form a role in keeping them warm, this is more important than fashion accessories 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, anti ­ allergic 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.

Photo credit: Masarik / 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.

Pack your basic kit!

THER E’S quite a lot to think about when planning for a camping trip, making it easy to forget essential bits of kit! So, we have made a list of some of the most essential things to pack for your trip.

First of all, a tent! They come in lots of sizes, and a good rule of thumb is to aim for a tent that sleeps one or two people more than you need.

Tent pegs ­ you will get some with your tent, don’t forget to take them!

Sleeping bags for everyone who is camping ­ it gets pretty chilly at night, even in summer.

A sleeping mat, air bed, or camp bed for each person ­ airbeds are cheap and comfortable.

Pillows ­ easy to forget, but make a huge difference to a good night’s sleep.

Camping stove, fuel and cutlery.

Water carrier or jerry can.

Camping chairs ­ the best way to relax in the sun.

Torch and batteries ­ these are essential for bathroom stops at night.

Sunscreen.

Bin bags ­ so you can keep the tent clean and tidy.

Wet wipes or cloths ­ For easy, quick cleaning.

A travel First Aid Kit!

These items are easily purchased at sports and camping shops.

Camping in Spain is it legal? Where to go

CAMPING doesn’t just mean a standard family tent, makeshift constructions made out of sticks and plastic sheeting and one­person bivouacs are also considered camping. There is a subtle legal difference for caravans and campervans between parking and camping ­ if the awning is erected or there is the presence of equipment such as chairs or stoves then this is considered to be camping.

National and natural parks in Spain do have refugios or mountain shelters, usually consisting of basic accommodation with limited cooking and washing facilities. You can also find free camping in national and natural parks, however, these are closed from June to September due to fire hazards.

While it’s appealing to camp on the beach, and though many of the campsites are located along the coast, camping on the beach itself is not allowed. It is also not allowed in Spain to just pitch up and wild camp and, in general, campfires are also not allowed – particularly in the summer months.

Camping (not parking) on public roads is not legal and, although car parks on the seafront or in other locations will have their own local council rules, camping is generally not permitted. Sleeping

in a car on the roadside is legal if you are parked in an area where cars are allowed, such as a public car park. However, be sure to not set up any chairs or camping equipment outside of the vehicle.

Camping on private land is tolerated in Spain, however, Article 46.1 says that, even on private land, no more than three tents or caravans and no more than ten people can camp in the same place for more than three days. This national law also states it is prohibited to wild camp within 200 metres of the high tide mark of the beach, within a few kilometres of military installations, within a few kilometres of an official campsite, in protected areas like national parks, natural parks and at national monuments.

• Why should you camp in Spain?

Spain is one of the best holiday destinations in the world, so why not grab your tent or campervan and immerse yourself in the Mediterranean weather.

• Why choose a summer campsite in Spain?

Spain continues to be one of the best destinations that has a good relationship with Europe. With beautiful beaches, numerous activities, good food, culture and incredible nature, Spain is a great holiday destination.

• Sun, sea and sand

Statistically, Spain is the sunniest country in Europe. The Mediterranean coastal towns enjoy on average, 300 days of sun a year. With more than 8,000 kilometres of coast and 577 beaches, Spain offers golden beaches complete with dolphin spotting and promenades. The Mediterranean Sea has many activities on offer, like sailing, snorkelling, kayaking and swimming.

• Beautiful mountains

Spain offers a rare combination of spectacular mountains and beaches in close proximity. You can enjoy high pastures and then drive for 30 minutes or less to gorgeous sandy coastlines.

There are many beachside campsites in Spain, such as Camping La Torre del Sol, in southern Catalonia.

Camping Villasol is another great campsite. Villasol is in the Alicante region and brings in a lot of happy campers during the winter months due to its almost all year round gorgeous, sunny climate.

As well as beach side spots to pitch your tent, Spain also boasts camping havens nestled between captivating, cascading mountains. Camping Valle de Bujaruelo is located amidst karstic limestone within Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park.

If a chalet seems more your speed than a tent, Camping Mirador al Pedraforca offers several wooden bungalows amidst decadent forestry.

PRIDE BEFORE A FALL

DAVID WORBOYS THINKING ALOUD

DESPITE the lack of sunshine, I love the country I grew up in. When I was quite young, it was a united country whose people had shown courage, discipline and humour throughout and after the deprivations of the Second World War. ‘Made in England’ suggested quality. We had widely respected institutions such as the Church of England, the BBC, the NHS and the National Gallery. We had a highly regarded monarchy, parliament and judiciary. It was a pleasant country to live in.

Some of those institutions have deteriorated or lost support. But we still have Covent Garden opera, Arsenal, the Financial Times and Oxfam. If there were a capital of the world, it would still be London. Oxford and Cambridge remain among the most prestigious universities. English villages are among the most charming anywhere.

There was ­ and is ­ a lot to be proud of, but pride (or complacency) is one of the major causes of the current

demise, as manifested in the complacency of Conservative government ministers who repeatedly express pride in what they and their party have achieved. They promise a world­beating NHS and an education system second to none, which seems about as realistic as a pledge to make Manchester the most glamorous city in Europe.

And I believe it is this arrogance that led to Brexit and all the UK’s economic, political and social woes. When you look at our current predicament, the EU, for all its shortcomings, worked well for our country for 47 years, with free movement of people, goods and services among and within our most important partner­countries. But no! It was not considered good enough for the UK.

Getting back into the club is probably about as likely as Russia being admitted, but I fear we would be too proud even to think about it.

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Camp in the correct place.

Image: Asukanda/Shutterstock.com (Green tent)

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Ifyoucanreadit,socan

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.

The LEGAL way to scrap your vehicle

HAVING worked in the trade on the Costa Blanca for over 13 years, the staff at Bradley Breakers could tell a horror story or two about people who thought they had scrapped their ‘old banger’ only to find that the car was still registered many months later.

There are individuals who have faced large fines after the vehicle they thought they’d seen the back of was still driving around.

Unfortunately as long as your name remains on the document of ownership you are legally responsible for that vehicle.

Here in Spain the system of scrapping a vehicle is far more complex than anything you are likely to face

back in Ireland or the UK. There is now also the new Environmental Badges that came into force which means your vehicle is categorised based on its energy efficiency.

Bradley Breakers are ex­

perts in the field and they can make the whole process as simple and uncomplicated as you might wish. Simply make the call, they will make you a cash offer for your vehicle and if accepted they will collect on a tow

truck from your home. They will leave you with the necessary legal documentation advising that they have taken ownership of your car and then following its scrapping, you will be issued with the official DGT

Certificate (Baja). Its important when selling/scrapping your car that you are provided with all the correct and legal paperwork, this is

something you will always receive from Bradley Breakers. It is very important to make sure you use a reputable company.

Changes in F1

SKY SPORTS F1 is making changes to its commentary line ­ up with Johnny Herbert and Paul di Resta leaving the team.

The changes were confirmed to local media on Wednesday, January 25 by the broadcaster who has indicated that there are no plans to replace the pair. No reasons were given for the change.

A spokesperson for Sky Sports F1 said: “Johnny has been an integral part of our Formula 1 team since the very first season on Sky Sports in 2012. We will miss his humour and big personality and thank him for his energy and enthusiasm over the last 11 years.

“Everyone wishes him all the best for the future.”

Herbert, whose colleagues have taken to social media to say they will miss him, said: “I’m not

with Sky this year, unfortunately, but there are other things I’ll be getting involved with.”

The team for 2023 is Jenson Button, Nico Rosberg, Naomi Schiff, Martin Brundle, Damon Hill, Karun Chandhok, Anthony Davidson, Natalie Pinkham, Ted Kravitz, Danica Patrick, Simon Lazenby, David Croft and Rachel Brookes.

FOLLOWING recent back surgery, the legendary wrestling superstar Hulk Hogan has been left paralysed from his waist down.

His condition was initially revealed on Monday January 30 by his 54­yearold long­time friend and fellow WWE legendary grappler, Kurt Angle, during his The Kurt Angle Show@TheAnglePod.

Hogan apparently had nerves removed from his lower body during an unknown procedure. He has since lost all feeling in his lower body. It has not

Fired after whistle blows

JIM GOODWIN has parted company with Scottish Premier League club Aberdeen. Just 19 minutes after the ref blew the full ­ time whistle on Saturday, January 28, the Pittodrie board fired the manager. His assistant Lee Sharp also suffered the same fate.

With just one win in the last 10 matches, a heavy 6 ­ 0 defeat away to Hibernian was the final straw following the loss to sixth­

Wrestling legend left paralysed

been clarified whether the 69­year­old underwent the operation to remove those nerves or if they were subsequently removed as a result of complications arising from his op. According to Angle, the six­ time

tier Darvel on Monday January 23. The defeat to a team of part­timers five tiers lower than Aberdeen is generally regarded as the biggest shock in Scottish Cup history.

Goodwin left St Mirren to take over at Aberdeen last February 19, 2022, replacing Stephen Glass. He is the second manager to be fired by the Scottish outfit in two seasons.

Speaking with BBC Scotland after the game, an

WWE World Heavyweight Championreal name Terry Gene Bollea ­ is currently walking with the aid of a stick but is not suffering any pain, according to a news source.

Several WWE champions have seen their careers end prematurely by injuries. Angle recently had surgery on both knees, which during a difficult recovery process left him 'pretty much useless' he shared.

Hulk Hogan is without a doubt one of the biggest superstars to ever grace a wrestling ring, with a 35­year career.

Pericarditis diagnosis

FORMER Dutch international footballer and renowned manager Huub Stevens has revealed that he has been diagnosed with pericarditis and said he will not be able to coach again.

The former FC Schalke coach, who he led to victory in the UEFA Cup in 1997, told a German news outlet on Friday January 27: “I’ll be 70 this year, my coaching career is definitely over.

“I recently had a request from a club in the Netherlands, but I don’t risk it anymore.”

The 69­year­old added: “I couldn’t answer that to my family and the club.

Everton confirm new manager

FORMER Burnley manager Sean Dyche has been confirmed as the new Everton manager to replace Frank Lampard.

In the latest big football news, English Premier League club Everton on Friday, January 27, confirmed Sean Dyche as their new manager. The former Burnley boss will replace Frank Lampard who was fired last week, according to a news source. Dyche is expected to be unveiled officially as the new boss at Goodison Park, after nine months out of management. He is expected to be joined on the staff by Steve Stone and Ian Woan.

With the Merseyside outfit hovering just above the relegation zone, Dyche has his work cut out. His appointment might come too late to avoid losing Anthony Gordon to Newcastle. The latest reports suggest that a £40 million plus add­ons deal has already been agreed upon for the 21­year­old.

After 10 years at Turf Moor, 51­year­old Dyche faces a baptism of fire. Everton have a break before their next match which is at home to the current league leaders Arsenal. One week later he will have to prepare his players for the Liverpool derby at Anfield.

“I’m no longer taking on an official position. My body sent out a clear warning. I was taken to the hospital because I suddenly felt pain in my chest. The doctors diagnosed pericarditis.”

Stevens, who was head coach in Salzburg from June 2009 to April 2011 and won the championship title with the Austrian team in his first season, said the diagnosis was a “clear yellow card for me.”

During his playing career, Huub Stevens was best known for his time at the Dutch side PSV, where he played 293 games.

He represented the Netherlands 18 times, scoring one goal.

emotional Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack told them: “Jim is a good man, has given it everything here. I met him right after the game and he came up and gave me a hug and simply said, ‘I know, Dave, it’s just not good enough’.”

He continued: “So we part company for obvious reasons. Since coming back from the World Cup our away form has been abysmal, our form at home has been pretty decent. I think some of the players also need to take responsibility.”

F1 broadcasting changes.

Image AJ165 / Shutterstock.com

DUTCH FOOTBALL: Huub Stevens will not be able to coach again.

Image AJ165 / Shutterstock.com

2 Basketball is Spain’s second biggest and most popular sport after football.

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

Photo credit: Leonard Zhukvosky/Shutterstock.com