Costa del Sol 2 – 8 February 2023 Issue 1961

TRUE COMMUNITY

INCREDIBLE members of the Costa del Sol community have pulled together to create a GoFundMe page after one La Cala de Mijas family lost ‘everything’ in a house fire.

Many will know the popular couple, Gary and Claire

Arnold, as for many years they owned The Captains Bar in La Cala.

After a massive explosion occurred around 9pm on Sunday, January 29 in one of their upstairs bedrooms, the Turn to page 2

PLEASE HELP: The Arnold family of La Cala de Mijas have lost everything.

Image: GoFundMe/bce752e0

from Front page

A helping hand

family and their pets were fortunately able to escape the property unharmed, but they have been left with only the clothes they were wearing.

Claire explained: “We are lucky that my daughter was out at work as the explosion happened in her bedroom. We didn’t have time to think or to grab anything, everything happened so fast.” It is suspected that the fire started in the chimney of the log burner.

Sadly the property was not insured as Claire explained: “We tried to get insurance but as the property is a campo house we struggled.”

When neighbours lost their homes in the 2012 La Cala fires, Gary and Claire held a fundraiser to help them but it is only now they truly understand how devastating the impact is.

Claire and her family are incredibly appreciative of all

the support and kind words received from the local Lions group, friends and neighbours. “Everyone has been so kind. I haven’t had the chance to thank everyone for their support individually as yet but we really do appreciate their kind words and offers.”

Neighbours of the family have set up a GoFundMe page in a bid to raise funds and help the family rebuild the home that they have lived in for 20 years.

The family’s friend, Maria Brooke, said: “These are the kindest people, thoughtful and generous and have always helped others. Please help us to help them, give generously to help us get them back home.”

“The family have lost everything.”

If you can help, please donate at the GoFundMe page: /gofund.me/bce752 e0.

THE SNOW GIRL (La Chica de Nieve), based on the novel by Javier Castillo from Mijas, has become a runaway hit around the globe after being adapted into a six ­ part series by the platform. The show also brought a bit of Hollywood glamour to the entire Costa del Sol after being filmed across Malaga and Madrid.

The series follows the fictional

Could it be YOU? Coin cares

MORE than 700 community concerns were resolved by the Coin Town Hall throughout 2022, thanks to a municipal mobile application launched in 2019 that enables residents to alert the council about local issues.

COULD you be the winner of the unclaimed EuroMillions winning ticket?

Nothing is known at the moment about the new millionaire who purchased the winning ticket in Malaga for the EuroMillions draw that took place on Tuesday, January 31.

A phenomenal prize of €66 million is sitting waiting for the lucky winner. The winning ticket was purchased from the lottery administration number 60 of Malaga City, lo ­

Viral star

disappearance of Amaya Martin at the Three Kings parade in Malaga in 2010. After years of searching, a trainee journalist begins the investigation into the girl’s whereabouts, and in parallel to that of Inspector Millan, who

cated at Calle Martinez Maldonado, 70.

This winning sum is the second largest prize awarded in Malaga city, after the almost €78 million won on the EuroMillions in July 2021 with a ticket purchased from the Rosaleda shopping centre.

Begona Jimenez, owner of the lottery administration shop where the ticket was purchased believes the winner of the massive jackpot will choose to remain incognito which is

will awaken aspects of her past that she would have liked to forget.

This thriller, produced by Atipica Films and directed by David Ulloa, has been filmed between Malaga and Madrid and its cast includes well­known faces such as Jose Coronado, Milena Smit, Aixa Villagran, Tristan Ulloa and Cecilia Freire, among others.

something she advises.

EuroMillions is a transnational lottery that was launched on February 7 in 2004 by France’s Francaise des Jeux, Spain’s Loterias y Apuestas del Estado and the United Kingdom’s Camelot.

Initially, only the UK, France and Spain participated, with the Austrian, Belgian, Irish, Luxembourgish, Portuguese and Swiss lotteries joining for the October 8, 2004 draw.

This is the largest annual record achieved by the council since the initiative began three years ago. Since then, a total of 2,466 incidents have been registered and resolved.

The most common incidents have to do with paths, water and sewage repairs, cleaning and gardening, and urban furniture, followed by rubbish and waste, traffic and signage, and animals and pests.

Coin’s mayor, Francisco Santos, celebrated the number of incidents resolved last year, recalling that “little efforts and actions that improve the daily lives of our residents are equally as important as big projects.”

Santos emphasised the growing interest in the mobile alert service and commended the community for its ongoing efforts and commitment to engage with the council in day ­ to ­ day operations in order to “develop the town together.”

SNOW GIRL: Local hits big.

EUROMILLIONS: A phenomenal prize of €66 million awaits the lucky winner.

Image: GERARD BOTTINO Shutterstock.com

Image: Javier Castillo / Instagram

Never a disappointment

THE Circuito Costa del Sol de Casares never disappoints and the participation numbers corroborate this. The Andalucian Motocross Championship opened its season quite early and on Sunday January 29, there was no shortage of spectacle, with a record number of registered riders filling the Malaga circuit with almost 160 riders.

Windy farms

THE IberBlue Wind consortium, made up of an Irish company and several Spanish companies, has submitted the project for the construction of a large wind farm off the coasts of Malaga and Cadiz, capable of producing electricity for some 670,000 homes. The project has been named ‘Nao Victoria’.

Carnival for all

THE much­awaited San Pedro Alcantara Carnival is set to commence on Friday, February 17, and will last until Sunday, February 19. Included in the programme is a range of outdoor activities. The epicentre of events is on the boulevard and is aimed at both adults and children.

Drag queen gala

ON February 17, 18 and 19, the Plaza del Ajedrez in Estepona will host a Carnival Market, coinciding with the celebration of Carnival 2023. There will be craft stalls, gastronomy, batucada, comparsas, chirigotas, circus, fire show, workshops and the first Drag Queen Estepona 2023 gala.

Quick link

THE mayor of Malaga, Francisco de la Torre, said that he supports the proposal made to link Malaga and Sevilla with a ‘direct AVE train’ to join the two cities in 50­55 minutes. He said: “I think it is a cheap option and provides a quick link.”

Costa del Sol’s leader

TORREMOLINOS is the Costa del Sol’s leader in overnight stays in 2022, according to figures released on Monday, January 30.

The town improved its figures for 2019, accumulating more than one million travellers and nearly five million overnight stays.

Tourism in Torremolinos continues to grow at a good pace.

In fact, thanks to the latest figures from the National Institute of Statistics, the Costa del Sol municipality has been able to confirm its

THE repairs and improvements to the barbecues in the Pinar de los Manantiales pine grove in Torremolinos have now been completed.

With an investment of more than €48,000, this work has improved the existing facilities in the area instead of destroying them and installing new equipment.

Grills have been re ­

full recovery after the years marked by the pandemic. This past 2022, the town once again accumulated

more than one million travellers, specifically 1,044,059, who spent around five million

BBQ season

moved in order to enlarge the interpersonal spaces, going from eight to four grills, the walls of the modules and batteries have been covered and grills have been made and fitted on an element that allows them to be tilted upwards

instead of being fixed.

Worktops have been made and a general information sign and several signs have been put up with the rules of use.

The Pinar de los Manantiales is under considerable human pressure, especially

Roaring start

overnight stays (4,858,729).

These figures are parallel to those of 2019, as assured by the local council, in fact, the data is improved by 10.5 per cent compared to then and also makes Torremolinos the leader of the Costa del Sol in hotel overnight stays, above even the capital, Malaga.

Moreover, the town also tops the ranking of the province in the number of hotel beds (23,495) and leads the hotel occupancy rate with an average of 66.6 per cent.

at weekends and during holiday periods, as it is a recreational area which has, among other facilities, areas for eating with fountains, barbecues and tables.

Now, after the work that has been carried out the barbecues are in perfect condition ready to be used in the months when it is allowed, from October 16 until May 31.

Footbridge falters Football fun

THE Maxilua Cup hosted in Torremolinos will bring together the best seven ­ aside football academies in Spain.

The tournament will be played on February 25 at the Villa Deportiva facilities and will bring together 20 teams, including Barcelona, Atletico de Madrid, Sevilla, Betis and Villarreal.

The councillor for Sports, Ramon Alcaide, confirmed: “We are very happy that Torremolinos will be the next venue for the Maxilua Cup, a top ­ level seven ­ aside football competition which also has an important tourist dimension.

“Hundreds of people, including footballers, parents and fans will attend the tournament.

“We will have the opportunity to see some of the

best youth teams in the country in action. The football stars of tomorrow will be in Torremolinos in a tournament that will also help to deseasonalise the municipality as the teams will be staying in the local hotels in a month with fewer visitors, such as February.”

The competition will start at 10.00am with matches lasting 20 minutes. At midday, there will be a break of an hour and a half for lunch and the knockout rounds will begin at 5.00pm.

AREME (Foreign Residents Association of Estepona) has advised that its agreement with the Estepona Council to arrange for the addition of a ramp for wheelchairs and prams on the footbridge over the A7 between Benamara and Benavista is underway.

A total of €6,360 has been paid to engineers who have undertaken a survey and are checking ground as well as taking samples of soil for testing.

The initial survey and legal and planning costs will amount to €16,000 which has to be paid in full by the surrounding urbanisations which are to benefit but so far, donations have only been received from Palmeras 1,3 and 4, Benavista, Centro

THE Lions Club in La Cala de Mijas are kicking off the 2023 fundraising with a charity lunch at La Sierra Restaurant on Wednesday, February 15. The glitzy gourmet event will allow guests to socialise and enjoy a delicious three­course meal while raising money for a deserving cause.

The varied menu offers three tantalising options for each course, including a vegetarian option. Main choices consist of pork, hake or aubergine dishes.

Diners will also be serenaded by Mark Connor, who will perform classic hits by Neil Diamond and Elvis Presley.

The lunch is set to raise money for the Lions Club International’s campaign against childhood cancer, on Children’s Cancer Awareness Day. The special initiative is one of five campaigns by the international organisation including supporting people with sight issues, ending global hunger, supporting diabetes patients, and environmental campaigns.

Commercial Benavista, Wimpen and AREME itself.

If the full €16,000 is not raised then the physical work to transform the footbridge may not go ahead.

Tickets for the lunch cost €35 and can be purchased from La Cala Lions’ shop in La Cala de Mijas. The meal will take place at 12.30pm on the day, at the restaurant which is located at Cerrado de Aguila Golf Club.

TORREMOLINOS: Continues to grow at a good pace.

Image: Andrei Nekrassov / Shutterstock.com

Seven-a-side football.

Image: Torremolinos City Council

Ricky Martin for one night only!

STARLITE has confirmed that Ricky Martin is coming to the Costa del Sol!

For one night and one night only, Ricky will be playing The Starlite Catalana Occidente, for his only concert in Spain this summer.

The Puerto Rican singer who is best known for top hits such as ‘Livin’ La Vida Loca’, ‘Shake your Bon-Bon’ and his music versatility in all genres: salsa, reggaeton, Latin pop, pop and more.

With 95 Platinum records, 40 Gold records, multiple Grammys and Latin Grammys, and 14 Billboard Awards, you will have no other option but to dance the night away. The show will be a symphonic combination of energy and tradition. Taking place on Friday, July 14, this will be an event you won’t want to miss out on.

For more information, Visit https://starlitemar bella.com/

PROVERBOFTHEWEEK

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

Trip to Doha?

QATAR Airways will resume its summer connection from Malaga, connecting the Andalucan city and Doha with four flights a week from June 2 until September 11.

Malaga will join the airline’s global network of more than 150 destinations.

Flights from Malaga will operate on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, departing from Malaga at 3.45pm and arriving in Doha at 11.45pm (local time). In the case of flights departing from Qatar, the flight will depart at 7.50am and arrive at Malaga-Costa del Sol airport at 2.15pm (local time).

The company has highlighted in a statement that this connectivity allows international travellers to visit the Costa del Sol and discover all that Malaga has to offer, “a

THE Benalmadena Costa Post Office, located at Avenida de Antonio Machado, 18, has confirmed that it will now be open in the afternoon. The new opening hours are 8.30am until 8.30pm, Monday to Friday.

With this extension, Correos hopes to improve the quality and accessibility of the postal service. All Correos services are available throughout the entire opening period to the public. The extension of opening hours favours this office as the evening collection point. With

unique destination to enjoy in the summer months.”

Smaïl Boudjennah, Regional Manager of Western Europe for Qatar Airways, said: “It is great news to be able to resume our route to Malaga for another year in the summer of 2023.

“Spain is a very important destination for Qatar Airways and to have four connections during the summer season is always a source of pride for us, especially this year when we are celebrating the fifth anniversary of the link between Malaga and Doha.”

New opening hours

the proliferation of internet shopping, the extended opening hours will make it easier for shoppers to get their orders delivered.

In addition to sending letters, whether ordinary, registered or urgent, other operations such as the sale of packaging and stamps, the sending of parcels, the collection of bills and the sending or receiving of money are also managed.

You can also pay taxes, man-

Pretty prestigious

THE prestigious National Geographic magazine has included six municipalities in the province of Malaga in its list of the most beautiful villages in Spain.

Two of them are on the Costa del Sol: Mijas and Casares. Another two towns are in the Serrania: Ronda and Genalguacil, and they are joined by Frigiliana in Axarquia and Archidona in the Antequera region.

About Casares, the publication defines it as a “lime-tinged panoramic view that is captivating due to the layout of its houses, like lumps of sugar piled up.” Among its points of interest, it highlights the castle as “a fortress built by the Arabs in the 13th century.”

As for Mijas, it defines it as “a whitewashed town that forms the most classic landscape of the Andalucian white villages, perfectly combined with the blue flowerpots hanging on the walls and the bright red flowers that emerge from them.” As a place of interest, it refers to “a bronze sculpture next to the Tourist Office as the protagonist of the Plaza de la Virgen de la Pena.”

age electricity and telephone services, deal with DGT, buy train tickets, access insurance company offers and Correos Telecom, and sell Red Cross lottery tickets and ONCE coupons.

Mini cleaning points

FUENGIROLA is cleaning up its act by installing ‘Mini Punto Limpios’ - Mini Cleaning Points throughout the neighbourhoods and parks to best ensure that we are doing our bit for the environment. The mini cleaning points are places where you can dispose of CDs, DVDs, ink cartridges, small electronics, batteries, and light bulbs.

With great response throughout the community online, these mini cleaning points are keeping Fuengirola clean and happy while also giving you the correct place to dispose of items that you wouldn’t know where to properly dispose of them.

There will be nine areas where these Mini Cleaning Points will be, so keep an eye out if you see one in your local area.

RICKY MARTIN: Don’t miss this!

Fancy a trip to Doha?

Image: Colin C66 / Shutterstock.com

A DRIVER who caused traffic chaos on the A7 in Marbella on Monday, January 30 when thousands of Euros in cash flew out their car was reportedly on their way from Valencia to the Costa del Sol to buy a car they had found online.

The young driver was reportedly with three friends traveling with a backpack filled with €20,000 in cash when they were hit by a truck at kilometer 181 of the A7, forcing open the trunk of their Seat Toledo.

A flurry of notes­ mostly €50 but some €500 ­ followed, causing chaos as fellow motorway goers stopped their cars to grab as much cash as they could.

Videos of the cash rainfall

Bad luck!

went viral online, with many speculating that the money belonged to drug traffickers. According to reports, the four Moroccan men in the Seat Toledo have no police records however and are instead the vic­

tims of a very unfortunate series of events.

It is unknown exactly how much of the €20,000 the group lost, but they are reportedly now able to denounce the drivers who stopped to grab their cash.

New leisure park

A NEW recreation and leisure park is to be built in El Pinillo on a plot of 40,000 square metres. With hopes for the park to be ready this year, the park announced by mayor Ángeles Muñoz is to be named ‘Parque del Mediterráneo’.

The park will be host to two children’s areas, sports courts for volleyball, football, and beach handball as well as provide spaces for yoga, pedestrian paths, 250 parking spaces and an auditorium for

holding outdoor shows.

With €2.4 million of planned investment behind the new park, the area is to be used and “available to local residents and was necessary in recovery of the concessions of lands,” said Mayor Ángeles Muñoz

The park will also have an all­year­round sports facility for beach volleyball, indoor football and beach handball. “It is a family leisure park project, with many wooden pedestrian paths that connect with the

Jobs galore

THE El Fuerte Marbella hotel will be holding a recruitment day on February 9 to fill 150 jobs in preparation for its reopening. The opening is expected to take place this spring after the refurbishment work has been completed which will allow the hotel to obtain a fifth star and raise its category.

The hotel establishment will increase its staff as ‘luxury is synonymous with service and personalised attention, which in the hotel industry translates into more reinforced workforces with highly qualified profiles’.

The recruitment day will take place at the Hotel Amare Beach Hotel Marbella, Avda. Severo Ochoa, 8, Marbella, on February 9, from 9am until 5pm.

The aim, according to the company, is to “incorporate the best talent on the Costa del Sol and embark on an exciting project that aims to turn this icon of the Andalucian hospitality industry into the best five­star hotel in the centre of Marbella.”

If you are interested in participating, head to https://jobs.grupoelfuerte.com to register.

Hotel El Fuerte would love to meet you and know what you can bring to their team.

coastal path that has already been built.”

The completion time of the project is expected to take over seven months and should be completed by end of summer 2023.

€15m project

THE Spanish construction services company ‘ESPIREA’ has been awarded the contract for the construction of the METT Hotel & Resort Marbella in Estepona and the residential complex of 54 homes in Calanova Golf Club in Mijas.

The budget for the two projects is more than €15 million.

ESPIREA, with offices in Cordoba, Malaga and Sevilla, has reported that it is returning to work on Mett Hotel & Resort Marbella, formerly Hotel Bellavista, where it has already carried out refurbishment work, with the aim of converting it into a fivestar establishment.

The works are scheduled for completion in June 2023, located on Guadalmansa beach, between Marbella and Estepona.

Credit: Instagram

CASH RAINFALL: Drivers stopped to collect cash on the A7.

A tartan tribute to Bill Anderson

ON Wednesday January 25, the Costa del Sol community came together and paid tribute to respected Mijas councillor Bill Anderson on Burns Night at the Green Label Restaurant, Mijas.

More than 100 attendees in traditional Scottish attire created a sea of tartan for the festivities, which were commenced with a quote that set the scene for the night. “Think where man’s glory most begins and ends, and say my glory was I had such friends,” by William Butler Yeats.

The traditional night then followed the set Burns Night pattern with the piping in of the haggis, toasts and poetry, as well as tributes to Bill Anderson.

Bill told the Euro Weekly News: “Community is so important. I am a public person, but I am happy to do my work behind the scenes. I think they decided to have my tribute on Burns night so I couldn’t say no!

“I am excited for tonight, it is so nice to have guests and contacts come in from everywhere.

“I feel very humbled, I am the only foreign councillor to over 29,000 internationals - expatriates in Mijas. That’s over a third of the population.

“Coming and adapting to Spain isn’t

easy and getting your head around things is difficult and we have a right to be represented.”

He added: “We need more people as councillors, and we need more people to register to vote and that’s some-

thing that I really advocate for the international community to do. Ninetytwo per cent of internationals didn’t vote last election and that can make a huge difference.

“More foreigners on the council can

change the way things are done. Whether you be English, Danish, Swedish, come forward, we need more representation.”

Lisa Burgess, organiser of the event said: “It is important for events like this to happen.

“He does so much for the foreign residency here and is a great personal friend. He is a really good guy and is well respected by the community, both Spanish and English expatriates.

“The response for tonight has been amazing, with over 100 people in attendance and at such a beautiful location too.”

Franck

said: “I am happy to be here and support Bill. It takes guts to be a councillor and especially a foreign councillor in Mijas.”

Charmaine Arbouin, former consul, said: “I worked for the Consulate for nine years. During those years, six were to do with Brexit and two were to do with Covid and Bill was a god send. He took his role so seriously and kept everyone informed.

“When I was asked to come along to his tribute, I couldn’t say no. I am excited for the evening, and I can’t wait to see what it brings.”

from La Perla de Torrenueva

BILL ANDERSON: More than 100 attendees turned out to pay tribute.

End of an era

Credit: Theratpacklive.com

RAT PACK: Dave Lee is performing his last concert.

ON Sunday, February 5, Costa del Sol legend Dave Lee will perform his last gig in Spain before he and his wife, Marissa, move for their new life in the Philippines.

Dave will perform with Rat Pack colleague Martin Joseph at Bobby Jones & Spikes Miraflores Golf Club. Guests can either have Sunday lunch while the gang peform or simply have a drink and enjoy the show. Martin is encouraging everyone to come down to pay tribute to the brilliant Dave Lee at his last Costa del Sol gig for a while. The Euro Weekly News would also like to wish all the best to Dave and Marissa on their new adventure!

A JEWELLERY shop was robbed in broad daylight on Tuesday, January 31, in Marbella. Specifically, the incident occurred at the Time Outlet Marbella jewellery shop, located on Calle Padre Francisco Echamendi in the old town neighbourhood.

Jewellery shop robbed

Two individuals reportedly entered the premises at around 10.45am and held up the staff at gunpoint, escaping with watches. According

to witnesses, the shop assistant was unharmed, although she required medical assistance. At least five customers are said to have been in the

Large iguana captured

LOCAL POLICE officers in Malaga City were recently called upon to capture a specimen of iguana. The reptile was more than one metre long and weighed in at around 6.5 kilograms.

It had been spotted in the Bailen ­ Miraflores district of the city by residents a few days ago. Specifically, the creature was roaming free in a green area next to Calle Albacete, between Avenida Valle Inclan and Calle Genoveses.

According to a statement from Malaga Town Hall, the residents reported their sightings to a local vet, who

in turn, informed the Local Police station.

A unit providing civilian service subsequently appeared on the scene. One of the officers proceeded to take charge of capturing the animal. It was eventually caught and placed inside a container for trans­

portation to the municipal Animal Protection Centre.

Once at the facility, he was given appropriate care, but nothing could be done to save his life, and he sadly died a few days later due to his poor state of health, according to a local news source.

shop at the time.

Neighbouring businesses experienced the incident firsthand. Carlos Sevillano, the owner of Cristy’s jewellers

was the person who alerted the Marbella Local Police.

“There were two armed individuals and they both had their faces uncovered,” said Sevillano. He said: “they took almost everything from the display case, containing more than 25 Rolex watches.”

REPTILE CAUGHT: But unfortunately he did not survive.

Credit: Malaga Town Hall

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.

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

Known as Operation Conifera, this investigation into match-fixing was car-

Football fixing scandal 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.

ried 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.

Close the Care Gap.

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

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

Jihadist arrested

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. 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 net -

work used by criminals and delinquents which is beyond the reach of the majority of internet users.

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.

‘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

Credit: Twitter@policia

ARRESTED: The suspected jihadist in Girona.

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 Euro ­

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.

The

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 bor ­

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

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.

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

False claims of food poisoning.

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

Francisco Selva exhibition

FRANSISCO SELVA’s works will be available to view at the Cultural Centre ‘Cortijo de Miraflores’, Marbella, until Thursday February 9.

Francisco Selva is a teacher and industrial technical engineer, but his passion is in art and literature. His style is that of experimentation with a rich colour palette, calligraphy like brush strokes, his work is something to be experienced.

The exhibition has been organised by the Fundación Escuela y Familia, a non ­ profit organisation that allocates all its funds both for study grants for students and for teaching research grants, facilitating free choice in quality education: the student’s right to re­

Age Concern

Danish Pop

ceive a free and top­quality education and more.

If you would like to visit the exhibition, it is on from 9am to 8.30pm, each day.

For more information be sure to visit www.Marbella.es.

AGE CONCERN will be hosting a fabulous Gala dinner, to celebrate 10 years of fantastic work at The Green Label restaurant, El Chaparal. As proud sponsors of the evening we cannot wait to celebrate their hard work and the great volunteers who have contributed to their success.

Age Concern always do what they can to help the community and with this Gala dinner, they are hoping to raise enough funds

to purchase a Patient Lift and let those who are struggling with mobility issues along the Costa make best use of it. Preventing injuries and making lifting safe.

Tickets are now sold out, however, all raffle prize and auction prize donations would be very gratefully received. If you would like to donate or require further information of how you can get involved contact Michelle on 0034 619 792 738.

Live Fuengirola with Love

THE Valentine’s festivities for ‘Live Fuengirola with Love’ registration has now opened! On February 12, couples will have the chance to take part in races ranging

from 200m to 3km. Fun for all ages, get your heart racing for love and take part.

The race will take place in Paseo Marítimo 115 of Torreblanca, old boat exit,

starting at 10am. All money raised will be going to charity and in order to receive the circuit souvenir shirt, the athlete must participate and finish two of the

three tests available.

Those interested in signing up can do so from now until February 9 via

www.dorsalchip.es; and the same day of the race, from 8.30am to 9.30am, during the delivery of numbers.

FOR all our music lovers, have you thought about what concerts and gigs you want to go to this year?

On September 2, the Danish pop rock group TV2 will give their long­awaited performance at Sohail Castle. This will be the last date and performance of their tour. Giving concert goers the opportunity to listen to some of the best Danish hits from the 80s and 90s. The band have been together since 1981 and released their first album in 1983. Celebrating over 40 years together and with the growing Danish community increasing across Spain it is great that bands such as TV ­ 2 are making their way to the Costa del Sol.

If you would like to buy tickets to the upcoming date, be sure to check out Marenostrum Fuengirola for more information.

Limited shows

AFTER a great week the Circo Berlín Zirkus, circus show. Las Lagunas and all the family will only be able to enjoy and see the show for three more days!

A Welsh evening

ON Saturday February 25 there is a special event in La Sierra called Some Enchanted Evening or Noson Lawen in Welsh as it has a Welsh theme being so close to Saint David’s Day on March 1.

It also celebrates Val’s 84th birthday but that is low

key please, so no birthday cards or presents will be accepted. However, since so many charities need help so badly, a raffle will be held and you are invited to bring along something suitable to put in six shopping bags which will be the six prizes.

Bottles of wine, chocolates, biscuits, a good book, unwanted Christmas presents, etc all acceptable. The donation from the raffle will be given to a charity and guests have the opportunity of voting for which charity they choose to support.

The evening is proving popular ,with the stars of the show Ricky Lavazza and Emma Prothero entertaining the guests.

Appreciate, the fascinating colours, stunts, acrobats, trapeze artists, jugglers, robots from Transformers and much more. Enjoy being at the edge of your seat and gasp at the greatness of their performances and costumes for only €10. A tribute to the clowns of TV with Rody Aragon and only six more shows left from today, Thursday February 2!

The show is located at the fairgrounds of Las Lagunas and tickets are now on sale online via Atrapalo.

Thursday, 2: 6pm Friday, 3: 6pm Saturday, 4: 5pm and 7.30pm

Sunday, 5: 12.00 and 6pm (final day!)

Image:Francisco Selva/ Marbella.es

PASSIONATE: Fransisco Selva’s works.

Image: only_kim/Shutterstock.com

Choir events!

TIMS choir members, having enjoyed their successful Christmas programme of concerts, are feeling elated at the wonderful feedback they have been receiving from, not just the audiences, but concert organisers too.

Performing in venues such as the Malaga Cathedral they knew that they had to do more in the new year.

The choir have now began to take on engagements for the Easter season. Beginning with a service of Taizé Chants and Hymns at St Andrew’s Church, Los Boliches at 6pm on Thursday March 2.

While also taking part in a concert for U3A which is also at St Andrew’s Church, Los Boliches at 11.00am on Friday April 28, during one of U3A’s monthly coffee morning lectures.

If readers are interested in learning more about TIMS and the choir performing at their forthcoming events, please contact choir President Gilly. Contact details are on the Facebook page or website.

Wobbly Wednesdays

JOIN in on the fun in Fuengirola with Wobbly Wednesdays, where local expatriates come together and do a train tour and visit bars and restaurants.

Starting after the announcement of the free train tickets, Wobbly Wednesdays were born and they have been keeping everyone up­to­date on their adventures through the Fuengirola Social Group on Facebook.

Many of the updates include how many locations they have visited, the number of people who attended, as well as what fun went on throughout the day. With the mascot Renfe statue penguin coming along on some of the adventures.

Taking place every three to four weeks, the run starts from the Windmill bar at Los Boliches.

In December, they did the 12 bars of Christmas. Twen­

Save the date

SAVE the date for Saturday May 6, 2023 and walk with Darkness into Light.

Originated in Ireland by Pieta, the walk each year provides an opportunity for people to connect with their local community and to bring hope to people who have been impacted by suicide.

Since starting the walk in 2009, supporters have helped raise almost €29 million. Walks take place all over the world and there will be one on the Costa del Sol.

The proceeds will be going to the charity Afesol Salud Mental, here on the coast.

Registration will be open from the end of February!

So, mark it in your diaries. Darkness into Light: Costa del Sol will also be holding other fundraising events on the lead up to the walk and we’ll be sure to cover them to make sure you can get involved!

Be sure to follow their Facebook Page Darkness into Light Costa Del Sol for further information.

ty ­ four people were in attendance, all 12 bars on their itinerary were visited and 16 bottles were drunk.

In November, they used the free train ticket to hop on and off every stop between Fuengirola and Malaga. Making the best use of the free train tickets.

Their next outing is to be on February 15, and they are headed off to Benalmadena, Arroyo de Miel.

Rockin’ Race Jamboree

TORREMOLINOS will host the 29th Rockin’ Race Jamboree which started on February 1 until February 5. With live music, classic car show and food trucks. If you are free this weekend this is something to consider doing.

For all our motoring enthusiasts, the classic car show will take place this Saturday, at Plaza del RemoTorremolinos ­ La Carihuela, near to Hotel La Barracuda. Starting at 12.00, the car show is for PRE­ 1970 motors

and will include live music from acts such as Los Brioles, DJ Steve Stack O Wax and more. With food trucks and plenty of atmosphere don’t miss an opportunity to see some of the best classics the Costa del Sol has to offer. With more events taking place throughout the weekend, be sure to check for available tickets at the festival’s box office. Be sure to call before to ensure the event isn’t sold out!

Live Music!

ENJOY live music every weekend at the port at Fuengirola, also known as Puerto Deportivo. For great fun, music and entertainment head down to that part of town to hear the acoustics of some of the most talented performers along the Costa.

A 10­15­minute walk from the train and bus station, this will become a weekly ritual you won’t want to miss. With tremendous views, inclusive community of expatriates from all over the world. Join in on the fun and enjoy the amenities close by while you are at it.

In the port there is some of the best home cooked food you’ll see and eat. With a plethora of good eateries at great affordable prices, stunning walks to be had along the dock and coastline. What better way for you to spend your weekend?

With most of the entertainment taking place in the square of the port, aim to be there for 2pm to get a good spot and a great seat to enjoy your day.

The Renfe mascot penguin.

Chase the sun and live the suite life

ESCAPE the winter blues and feel embraced by the warmth of our Mediterranean resort. Live life to the full! Enjoy a complimentary upgrade to one of our dreamy beachfront suites. We’ll also welcome you with a fabulous Six Senses Spa in-room amenity.

Prepared for you at the spa’s Alchemy Bar, is perfect for enjoying some sensuous inroom pampering. Start each day with our legendary breakfast overlooking the sea and during your stay we also invite you to indulge in a complimentary gastronomic lunch at our signature Sea Grill restaurant.

Here you can sip a cocktail by our heated pools, enjoy the privacy and seclusion of your suite and private terrace, and feel the vibrancy of our destination with our culinary landmark restaurants, bars, and refined nightlife.

If what you need is to reset and revitalise, we’ve got winter wellness covered too, with our Health & Fitness centre, beach yoga, as well as our unique Jungle Gym. This new open-air training area secluded in our lush, Mediterranean gardens, will inspire, and motivate with specially curated training circuits.

Raise your game with a complimentary round of golf or feel the adrenalin on our championship tennis courts. For the ultimate in rejuvenation and relaxation, then call upon the talented experts at our Six Senses Spa. Indulge your spontaneity - in a few hours you and your loved ones could be under the Andalucian sun, living the suite life. Chase the sun this winter and experience the Mediterranean lifestyle at Puente Romano Beach Resort. We’ll even give you late check-out so you can make every moment count.

Your stay includes:

• SUITE VIEWS – Stay in one of our dreamy sea view suites.

• EXTENDED STAY – Enjoy every moment with late check out.

• SPA GIFT – Natural, handmade in-room well-being amenity by Six Senses Spa.

• KIDS CLUB – Complimentary morning for your youngsters at La Casita Club.

• BREAKFAST – Start each day with our legendary beachside breakfast.

• LUNCH – Relish a complimentary lunch at our signature Sea Grill restaurant.

• GOLF – Raise your game with a complimentary round of golf.

• WELLNESS – Health and Fitness Centre, Jungle Gym, and beach yoga.

• PRIVILEGES – Preferential bookings at our restaurants, Tennis Club and Six Senses Spa.

To book: reservas@puenteromano.com +34 952 82 09 00

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

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

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.

Labour­ run Hackney Borough Council signed off plans for what it has billed as “the country’s most ambitious plan” to tackle

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

Sports brands.

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 keep full

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

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.

Most vehicles banned

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.

In solitary confinement.

Robert MawdsleyImage Pinterest

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

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."

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

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

So sudden

By Peter McLaren­Kennedy

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

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

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

Flybe collapses

By Peter McLaren­Kennedy

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

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

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

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

erating 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

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

Such a close thing

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

At the time of the incident, Macca was filming a documentary about the famous Abbey Road recording studios, which is broadcast on the Disney+ platform. In a video posted on the official Twitter profile of Abbey Road Studios on Wednesday, January 25, Sir Paul is seen pausing to pose mid­crossing. As he stops, a bluecoloured car makes no attempt to respect the law of the road and drives straight through the zebra crossing just behind him.

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

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.

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 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.

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

Dementia diagnosis

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

Speaking on UK TV on Wednesday, January 25, Christie, real name Anthony Fitzgerald, said: “If you start worrying about it, you’re finished. Ignore it, carry on and do what you do.”

Now 79 years old, Christie added: “I’ve always been, for 50 years, a fanatic at doing crosswords and things, and suddenly I started finding it very hard.”

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

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

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

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

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.

FLYBE: The airline has gone into administration.

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.

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. 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

Alpine Ski World Cup

By Peter McLaren­Kennedy

Denis Kornilov / shutterstock.com

European Convention 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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

French troops have one month to withdraw from Burkina Faso after a military deal expired.

Photo credit: Prehistorik

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.

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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.

Tried to stop drinking? And you can’t?

WAS January a tough month for you? Traditionally supposed to be the most depressing month of the year, cold, dark, and summer seems a long way off. Even here in Spain the days are shorter, and the temperatures lower. The post­festive buzz has well and truly worn off, the credit card statement is in, and most of our New Year’s resolutions went up in smoke by the end of Three Kings.

Was one of your resolutions to cut back on the booze? Did you try, and found you couldn’t? Has your drinking increased? Are you struggling to stop completely, even for a short period of time? Is your alcohol use, making you, or those around you, miserable?

Maybe lockdown was the trigger for you, feelings of isolation and loneliness led to a change in your drinking habits, perhaps larger volumes, or more frequent binges. Possibly it was the move to Spain, living here full­time is entirely different to a two­week vacation, and it is easy to get sucked into daily­drinking. Or it could be

for a completely different reason.

If you regularly drink more, or for longer than you planned to; have tried to cut back (or stop) and found you couldn’t; drink to deal with feelings and emotions; or if your drinking is interfering with your life, then you could have a problem with alcohol.

you are ready to stop drinking, or want support to help you try, then don’t wait until it gets any worse.

Here a member talks about how their drinking led them to get in touch with AA, and how they now enjoy all the benefits of being sober…

“My name is Jacob, I am happily mar­

my gin. A couple even called me an alcoholic, but I brushed it off. I was functioning, I still held down a good job (two in fact), I still had a wife and a car!

By the end, I had to have a drink in the morning to stop the shakes, my whole day was centred around where the next drink was coming from. I wasn’t eating properly, and there were a lot of arguments, slamming doors, and shouting. I was lying and being dishonest, I was leading a double life. Till my wife made me get help.

There is a solution, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) ­ a 12 Step fellowship; a peersupport group that has helped millions of people, all over the world, with their problem drinking. If the consequences of your alcohol use are getting too much, if

ried in my 50s. I run a successful business, based on the Costa del Sol. But my life wasn’t always like that.

The comments first started in my 20s, people would say; maybe I should have water with my wine, or a bit more tonic in

The most amazing thing about AA is there are no rules. Not on what you must do, or what you should believe. It is not like a church or a school, it is a group of people trying to get themselves off the drink, and into a better way of living, using a spiritual programme, and a set of principles as guidelines… And it is completely free.

If you think you might need to look at your drinking, or need some help to stop, then get in touch with AA. Come along to a meeting (or a few) and just listen.

LeapyLee’sopinionsarehisownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

BILL ANDERSON A PUBLIC SERVANT

IT may be a cliché, but true, nevertheless, “You can’t please all of the people all of the time.” You can take this one step further and ask, “Does everyone even want the same things?” Clearly, as a general rule, the answer has to be “No!”

However, when it comes to where we live, I see much more in the way of agreement, than if we were talking about which car we want, how big our TV should be, or what kind of restaurants we like.

Looking carefully at the topics which have been brought to me over the last years there are three things that repeatedly come to the fore: security, cleaning and rubbish collection (that’s one by the way), and maintenance. The last item includes keeping street lights working, repairing roads and looking after what we already have, such as maintaining the boardwalk.

Over the last days our mayor and his coalition counterpart have been at the FITUR tourism exhibition in Madrid promoting Mijas as a holiday destination. Nothing wrong with that. We need tourism. A lot of people directly or indirectly live off it.

SALLY UNDERWOOD POLITICAL ANIMAL

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

WHAT EVERYONE WANTS

come here on a regular basis to rip off the guests, but that’s someone else’s problem to sort out.

In Mijas, we are proposing to spend millions on a park (€33 million to be precise), millions on car parking, but not in the tourist areas and people are concerned about safety and security. They are furious about second­hand, broken rubbish containers which look like the aftermath of a nuclear war inside, can’t get their street lighting fixed, and have a much beloved boardwalk which has had no more than essential maintenance for the last seven years. That means only fixing the bits that have collapsed due to storms.

But let me pose a scenario. I have a hotel (I don’t, by the way). I head off to tourism fairs to promote it and get as many people as possible to choose my hotel for their holidays. But, I am so busy selling my hotel to tourists that I don’t take the time to look after it, and when the guests arrive, their rooms are not clean or ready for habitation.

We have a lovely swimming pool, but

Blame game

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.

the water is turning a light shade of green because I don’t get it cleaned regularly, the food in the restaurant is mediocre at best as I am not paying for a decent chef. The gardens are overgrown and the entrance has dirty bins which smell of decaying food from the kitchen. I do pay someone to clean them but don’t check to see if they have. Oh and by the way, we have groups of thieves who

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 accommodation and ensuring that the per­

Let’s just remember that the tourists don’t pay the council to live here. Hopefully, they spend their money in the many businesses providing a living for the innumerable families who live from these. So indeed, Mijas as a whole may benefit, but those of us who have made it our home and pay our way don’t matter?

Maybe a little more time spent on looking after the tax payers and making it a beautiful place to live before inviting guests into our neglected hotel?

Support us

son 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 circumstances allowed him to re­

Olaf Clayton of BBF.

ceive 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.

PROMOTING MIJAS: A lot of people directly or indirectly live off its tourism.

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

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.

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.

THERE’S no age limit for yoga.

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

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

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

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

Never too late

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

YOGA CLASS: Beneficial for people of all ages.

VANILLA: Arrived in Spain from Mexico in 1516.

Photo credit: CC/Malcolm Manners

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.

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 up ­ to ­ date 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 se ­

nior perfumer at Switzerland ­ based 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.”

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.

ticularly when it is homemade and includes protein ­ which can include pulses instead of poultry or meat ­ as well as carbohydrates and vegetables.

Mood enhancer

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,

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

Stretching could change your life!

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?

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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REGULAR contributor to Expat Radio, Marcel Salazar takes us through the benefits of stretching. No, he is not referring to what we may do when we get out of bed in the morning, but to setting aside five minutes a day to improving the elasticity and range of movements in our body.

Marcel describes six forms of stretching that can bring about amazing results in our bodies. The first types are Static and Dynamic stretches. These are easily done at home on our own and consist of a series of simple movements which helps to keep our muscles in shape and which can also help us to avoid injuries.

The other types: passive, ballistic, PNF, and active may require the assistance of another person such as a therapist, but can both help to prevent

injury and in injury recovery. Marcel recommends that people with pre­existing conditions such as osteoarthritis may need to consult an expert before launching into such a programme. He talks about how muscles work and how regular and targeted stretching of specific muscle groups, sometimes before exercise and sometimes afterwards, can make significant improvements in how a person feels. He also explains how much of what we learned during our child­

hood years has proved to be counterproductive in helping our muscles function well. We all remember the bouncy technique when stretching our leg muscles before a run (those of us of a certain age, that is).

Marcel can be found on his own You Tube channel https://www.youtube.co m/@strongforlifephysi caltherapy where he gives good advice on health and fitness and the full in terview on stretching can be seen on this link: https://youtu.be/bc9Zfct H2eY

DavidWorboys’sopinionsarehisownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors

BY NICOLE KING

MARBELLA is a popular tourist destination but it is so much more than that for those of us who live here. Watch Marbella Now to find out about what is hap

Good neighbours

pening in your neighbourhood, to learn more about your fellow citizens and to know more about events, local businesses and charities. If you’re living in or around Marbella, you

need to watch this show.

If you’re thinking of moving here it’s also advisable to know exactly what you’re getting into, without having to make the same mistakes others have made before you.

This is an indispensable, light­hearted guide to Marbella and the Costa del Sol: local TV in English. Marbella Now features a broad range of guests who want to share their secret to success and get involved with likeminded people in the community. We get to discover interesting locations whilst also promoting the region´s culture, leisure options, culinary delights and nightlife.

A new show airs every Thursday at 11pm with a unique mix of nationalities from around the world joining me to give their perspectives, ideas and explain their skills. Hotels and resorts,

representatives, associations, social organisations, local businesses giving us invaluable insights into how they work and play.

You can watch Marbella Now on RTV Marbella on your telly via TDT or online via streaming. Alternatively, you can watch on catch­up with links from my website. Please feel free to contact me to come on the show and with any feedback you may have. You can also follow the show on social media and YouTube. I hope you do.

Marbella Now serves as a unique connection between the Marbella Town Hall and the 140 plus nationalities in our community, so please join me to know who’s who and who does what.

Tonight ­ MN383: Meet Bill Anderson, Town Council Representative in Mijas with insightful

www.nicoleking.es

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.

For more from our columnists please scan this QR Code

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

comments on what it means to be an international resident in Spain.

Rachel Garrod PhD ­ Respiratory Physiotherapist with advice on how to better breathe in our day to day.

Our breath is vital for life so dedicating a few moments to be aware of how we’re doing it to improve flow should be a basic aspect of our lives.

Eva Lozano is my CIT Guest of the Week, representing the chic boutique hotel and restaurant: BoHo Club Marbella. This is an exclusive enclave in our Golden Mile and well worth a visit.

Darren Hayward heads up Nockolds, a legal firm with over 200 years of history in the UK. Their expansion to the Costa del Sol is

an exciting venture which they’re embracing wholeheartedly.

Isabella Magdala is a psychologist and sexologist, joining the show now twice a month to address everyday issues we feel we can’t discuss, but guess what? We can and we do.

I really appreciate you sharing my guests’ messages; our strength is in our unity and we can all live better lives simply by supporting and watching out for one another, by being good neighbours.

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 sponge ­ based 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.

Marbella Now tonight at 11pm #MN383

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

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

skin in your cat during the winter.

• Dandruff causes

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

Pawfect travel tips

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

Doggy dental health Cat skincare

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

• Treatment advice

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

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

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

Wrapping up

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

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

• Needs must

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

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

• Official advice

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

• Carrier alternatives

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

• Healthy habits

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

The first thing to con sider 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, short­haired dogs like boxers, thin dogs like greyhounds and older dogs often need coats during the winter to stay warm.

• Function not fashion

Dog clothes should perform a role in keeping

them warm, this is more 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

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

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

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

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

1. Teeth brushing

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

2. Dental dog treats

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

3. Professional cleaning

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

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.

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

CLASSIFIEDS

AIR

AIR CONDITIONING by Cool and Cosy. The family company that cares. Installation and repairs. Quality machines. Ecosense movement sensors supplied and fitted from 100 Euros. For other energy-saving products visit www.coolandcosy.es. 952 935 513. We are Junta de Andalucia authorised installers as the new law states (real decreto 115/2017). On the Costa del Sol since 1993

QUALITY Air Conditioning Installations. Economical to use, & silent in operation. 26 Years installation history in Spain. EnviroCare. All Areas

Covered. 952 663 141/670 409 759 info@envirocares pain.com www.envirocares pain.com (301178)

MR COOL - Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, Heating Systems, Sales & Service - Call Christian +34 629 527 587 or Nick +34 618 678 853 – www.mrcool.es (302027)

JIM’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS.

Bathrooms/kitchen reforms, repairs, plumbing, carpentry, painting, tiling, maintenance. Give us a call no job too small. 692 207 799 / 645 559 423 (302457)

www.handymanservices.es Electrician, plumbing, construction, painting. Innovation. ROT deduction for Swedish, Sotogrande to Marbella 648 712 530 (302411)

GENERAL BUILDER, Tiling, plastering, painting, electrician, plumber, carpentry. Reasonable prices. 635 913 885 (References available) (302414)

SWINGLES CASAS SL . For all your building needs. Visit www.swinglescasas.com for more details or call 635 999 765 / 666 960 262 (295953)

PLUMBING & GENERAL BUILDING All your plumbing needs. Bathroom, kitchens, tiling & painting. Benalmadena based, travel no problem. Glen 669 073 773 or Paul 642 098 115 (302310)

HOUSE CLEARANCE SPECIALISTS, FULL OR PART CLEARANCE. ALL FURNITURE WANTED, WE PAY MORE. TEL 634 324 914 OR EMAIL houseclearanceman@hotmail.com (301282)

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

ALHAURIN FURNITURE EMPORIUM Buyers & Sellers of quality furniture. Top prices paid. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071

WE BUY vintage antiques, designer clothing & accessories. Good rates paid. Discretion assured. 613 822 572 / +447778 422 305 (302627)

ALH RENT A CAR – SHORT & LONG-TERM RENTALS FROM €15 A DAY. INSURANCE INCLUDED IN OUR PRICES. www.alhrentacar.com - TLF: 638 846 909 or reser vasalhrentacar@gmail.com

ACE OF SHADES – All colours available. Urbanisations catered for, electric and manual operation; also recovery service available, largest selection of colours and designs on the coast. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design

T1(101730)

SUNSHINE AWNINGS/BLINDS

Awnings, Persiana, Shutter & Rejas Specialist. New & Repairs. 25yrs on the coast. 680 323 969 / 952 199 640 (302506)

ACE OF SHADES - Vertical, Venetian, Roman, Roller, Wooden blinds, various colours available, also black-out blinds. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design

BLINDS, awnings, mosquito screens, curtains, vast choice. All areas covered. Coast and inland. 655 825 931 (294242)

SOLAR BLINDS

SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for large glazed areas to reflect heat / glare and stop furniture fading and still keep the view. SAVE HEAT IN THE WINTER to improve your living environment. ian@solarshadetinting.com

Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (292919)

AWNINGS BLINDS BUILDING

RELIABLE Quality work, 21+ yrs experience. Need Remodel, Reform, or Refurbish. Kitchen, Bathroom. Floor tile.waterproofing. Painting. Counter top epoxy refurbish.Installation services. Maintenance service fix price.Commercial & Residential. RAMIN +34 635 204 123.INFO@HAWKSMBD.COM (302493)

METALWORK

NEW REJAS, GATES, Carports & Fencing, repairs & alterations. Work Guaranteed. Reliable. 19yrs on Coast. Steve the Welder. Call/WhatsApp 655 040 648 (302691)

WELL-established and thriving pet transport business for sale. For more info, please contact info@ petchauffeur.eu (302549)

CARS, Vans, Bikes wanted. Any Reg, Anything Considered Call or WhatsApp 687 049 592 (301470)

CAMPER VANS , CARAVANS, MOBILE HOMES, BOATS AND ALL PLANT, DIGGERS, DUMPERS, MOTORBIKES, CARS AND COMMERCIALS WANTED. BEST PRICE PAID, CASH TODAY, ANY REGISTRATION WITH OR WITHOUT PAPERS. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837

COLLECTIVE CALLING are urgently requesting donations of clothing, homeware & furniture, so if you are having a House Clearance, Please call us for FREE CO LLECTION. We sell good quality items, which then supports low-income families and the homeless in the community. These items can be dropped directly to our charity shop Tienda Solidaria: Av. Pablo Ruiz Picasso, 4, San Pedro de Alcantara, alternatively, call us to arrange collection on +34 711 006 961 (295137)

CHIMNEY SWEEP. Clean reliable professional. All types, special price for more than one. Chris 608 337 497 (296265)

APEX CHIMNEY SERVICES, professional chimney sweeping and smoke testing. NACS Qualified. Clean and efficient Tel: Bob 696 320 202 (301300)

SERVICES

BENALMADENA Elim Family Fellowship. Elimfamilyfellowship.com or call 951 912 525 or 952 446 627. (10011)

CALAHONDA: Encounter Church (Elim), Family church with kids’ activities, Iglesia San Miguel, Sundays 4.30pm, Rev. David Hodgson, 695 115 496 (10012)

THE Ark Christian Church. We meet at The Ark Christian School, Calle Río Darro 2 y Plaza Juncal, 29651, Mijas Costa (the road behind the Mijas Aquapark) on Sundays at 11.00am. Pastor, Andrew Seale Tlf 682 713 491 www.theark spain.com (293850)

CLEANING/MAINTENANCE

ADVANCED Cleaning Services. Professional carpet, upholstery cleaning, 28 years’ experience, wet/dry clean. Honest, reliable service 678 808 837 / 952 669 701 or email acservs@outlook.com

CONEJO CLEANING & Property Management. Est. over 25 years. Rentals management, one-off cleans. New Property set up service. Wendy 635 630 370 / 952 964 407 www.cone jocleaning.com (302025)

STARLIGHT Cleaning Services

All types of cleaning. Any size of property. All Areas. Residential & Holiday Lets. Deep Clean for Bars & Restaurants. We also do a professional Chimney Sweeping service. 682 636 451 www.star light-spain.com (302059)

DECORATORS

RAINBOW Pinturas . English Painters & decorators. All aspects. Interior/exterior, private residential, commercial & communities. Spraying: door, kitchens & furniture. Light construction. Call/WhatsApp: Daniel: 628 066 308 www.rainbow pinturas.com (302039)

ATD DECOR. British Painter. 30 Years’ Experience. Punctual. Great Rates. Call for free quote. 603 132 783 Facebook: @ATDDecorMalaga (302412)

DOMESTIC APP REP

DOMESTIC Appliance repairswashing machines, fridges, cookers, ovens, water heaters, gas / electric, professionally repaired. Christian 608 337 497 (296265)

WASHING MACHINES, Ovens, Boilers etc. All work guaranteed by ex Zanussi technician. Reliable rapid service. Joe 609 345 096 (302458)

DRAINAGE

BLOCKED DRAINS? Leak detection, CCTV survey, root removal, Tel 952 568 414 / 661 910 772 / drainspain.com (292976)

CLEARFLOW– Unblocking, CCTV inspection, repair and installation. Tel: 630 200 600 / 952 885 661. www.desatorosclearflow Facebook: DesatorosClearflow (301154)

ELECTRICIAN

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES 2 - 8 February 2023 • euroweeklynews.com

FLOOR POLISHING

MARBLE FLOOR (2.50€/m2) WHY PAY MORE. WE CLEAN, CRYSTALLISE, SEAL THEN POLISH YOUR MARBLE TO HIGH GLOSS, NON-SLIP. PROFESSIONAL GUARANTEED, FAST SERVICE. 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE. ALSO REPAIRS DAMAGES TO MARBLE, CLEAN AND SEAL TERRACOTTA TERRACES, COVERS ALL COSTA DEL SOL. TEL: 671 244 683 (295522)

MARBLE FLOORS polished high shine non-slip. Fast Service Reliable, family-run business. TERRACOTTA CLEANED and sealed. No job too small. Cleansol 10am – 10pm 7 days all areas. 952 930 861 / 607 610 578

Discount code: EWN 1 CLEAN (206437)

MARBLE POLISHING, CRYSTALLISING, LASTING, HIGH SHINE. REGRINDING, RESTORATION OF SALTY, DEAD FLOORS. 27YRS EXPERIENCE. RELIABLE. REFS AVAILABLE. CYRIL. 645 840 199 (302550)

FOR SALE/WANTED

ANTHONY’S ANTIQUES

JEWELLERS AND PAWNBROKERS IS NOW BUYING ALL TYPES OF WATCHES AND JEWELLERY IN ANY CONDITION, ALSO, SILVER, ANTIQUES AND THE UNUSUAL. WE BUY, WE PAY MORE, WE PAY CASH. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL ANTHONY ON +34 609 529 633 (296440)

WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel678 716 693 (288662)

CINEMA LISTINGS

FURNITURE wanted, same day collection, also house clearance and removals. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071 (302036)

FURNITURE GARDENING

PROFESSIONAL garden services from Fuengirola to Estepona. All aspects of gardening and full maintenance and landscaping, free quotes, competitive prices. Contact Andrew 600 259 981 Andrew@garden -professionals.com (295350)

IRRIGATION

IRIS-IRRIGATION and landscapes. TRENCHLESS NO DIG Irrigation installation, Cables, Fibre Optic, Electric & Lighting Cables. New Installations & problem-solving. Turf (supply and laying). Garden constructions. Tree surgeon. Clearing. Astro Turf (Free Quotation) 676 747 521 (301097)

GLASS CURTAINS

GLASS CURTAIN repairs, specialist in replacement of discoloured plastic strips that act as a seal between the glass panels. Call Julian 655 825 931 (301104)

HANDYMAN

HANDYMAN: General Masonry work, painting, wall/roof waterproofing & other jobs. Call Michael 622 755 666 (302732)

HEALTH & BEAUTY

CHIROPRACTOR

FUENGIROLA, Myofascial Release. J Schaegen, specialised in treating neck, back & extremity disorders, 30 years in practice. 652 291 224 www.bodywork.es (301414)

HEATING

kitchen into a modern solid colour or metallic look without painting or replacing. Work carried out on site with 10 year warranties Contact Ian 644 546 176 for design brochure and samples. (293467)

HOT TUBS AND SPAS

HOT TUBS new used, bought, sold, hired. Also move & repairs. Used good Hot Tubs for sale. 691 973 131 / +44 7836 379122

HOUSE CLEARANCES

ALHAURIN FURNITURE EMPORIUM furniture wanted, same day collection, also house clearance and removals. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071 (302036)

INSURANCE

ENGLISH ELEGANT passionate lady in late 40s, gives a sensual massage in private apartment. Satisfaction guaranteed. Call 680 177 569 (302492)

CASSIE. Mature English lady. Discreet and clean. 667 914 732 (FU 2884)

MASSAGE! Outcalls everywhere in Costa del Sol! Gentlemen, ladies, couples are welcome! 604 256 336 (FU 2875)

IT’S TIME to try something different and very relaxed. Sara, elegant masseuse, I offer massage, tantric, sensitive, prostatic, authentic relaxation that will leave you floating on the cloud. believe me spectacular! Very clean. I give and demand total hygiene! Let yourself go and you will discover the most hidden pleasures. Only by appointment. 650 237 145 (302347)

start, all you have to do is relax, breathe slowly to free your body and mind... I’ll take care of the rest. Irina, qualified masseuse with many years of experience. Book your appointment. 650 237 145 (302347)

RIVIERA DEL SOL. I am Noa a simple and natural girl who hides among her shy appearance the best kept secrets of relaxing, decontracting and stimulating massage. I am a specialist in eliminating your worries, muscular tension thanks to a depurative massage technique that I combine with a sensory capacity out of the ordinary. I massage both men and couples. 650 237 145. by appointment only (302347)

ELECTRIC GATE/GARAGE

DOOR automation repaired. Free, no obligation quotation. Call Colin - 636 394 641 (302074)

GATE REPAIRS GATES

ELECTRIC GATES/Garage Doors. Intercoms/access control systems and replacement remotes. New installs and repairs. For all your electric gate and garage door requirements call us on 605 356 469/952 786 178. The Garage Door Co & 2 Way Gates. tgdc@hotmail.co.uk www.2waygates.com (294202)

BE PROACTIVE: Electric/Gas fires, Wood Burning Stoves. Quality guaranteed. EnviroCare. All areas covered. 952 663 141/670 409 759. info@envirocarespain.com www.envirocarespain.com (301178)

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

VINYL WRAP

VINYL SOLUTIONS WHY REPLACE WHEN YOU CAN RENOVATE? Modern adhesive vinyl coverings in hundreds of styles and designs can renovate a tired kitchen, bathroom, wall panels, bedroom wardrobes, fridge doors. Turn a tired looking wood designed

Plaza Mayor Cinema, Malaga

BANSHEES BY INISHERIN

FRI, SAT, MON, WED: 17:20

SUN: 12:40 AND 17:20

TUES, 20:00

KNOCK AT THE DOOR

SUN: 13:15

TUES: 20:20

LA BALLENA (THE WHALE)

TUES: 19:15

BABYLON

TUES: 17:00

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER 2D

TUES: 18:45

Red Dog Cinema, Puerto Banus

The film showings in English are from 03/02 to 09/02

THE AMAZING MAURICE

ALL WEEKDAYS: 17:15

SAT AND SUN: 12:00, 15:00

BABYLON

ALL WEEKDAYS 19:15

SAT AND SUN: 17:00, 20:30

PUSS IN BOOTS: THE LAST WISH

EVERY DAY: 17:15

SAT AND SUN: 12:00, 15:15

OPERATION FORTUNE: RUSE DE

GUERRE EVERY DAY: 19:15

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER 3D

ALL WEEKDAYS: 17:00

SAT AND SUN: 11:30, 15:00, 18:30

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER 2D

ALL WEEKDAYS: 19:50

SAT AND SUN: 18:00

KNOCK AT THE CABIN

EVERY DAY 19:20

ALL WEEKDAYS: 17:17

SAT AND SUN: 15:15

TÁR

ALL WEEKDAYS: 17:00

SAT AND SUN: 15:00

THE OFFERING

ALL WEEKDAYS: 21:20

SAT AND SUN: 21:30

THE WHALE

EVERY DAY 19:00

SAT AND SUN: 21:20

RED DOG: The cinema has lots of English film times.

You can always see the updated listing at the following link:

https://www.reservaentradas.com/cine/malaga/reddogcinemas/

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

STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance

Call 971 277 455 For your security www.abbeygateinsure.com (291234)

LOCKSMITHS

LOCKSMITH emergency / appointment. Doors opened without damage, locks changed, patio doors and windows secured, 24 hour honest, fast and reliable service. Call Paul 657 466 803

ENGLISH LOCKSMITHS, SECURITY & SHADE EXPERTS. FREE HOME SECURITY SURVEY. 636 770 865 / 952 660 233 WWW.SECURITYOF SPAIN.COM CONTACT DAREN

MASSAGE

SAN PEDRO. Sandra. Professional relaxing, tantric massage. Young, slim, work alone, unforgettable moments. Nueva Andalucia. 641 346 278

MATURE elegant lady. Offers tantric and other massage. Personal home visits. 687 387 680 (286295)tp3

RELAXING Massage for Men & Couples. Feel free from tension & stress. Call Dany 603 202 758 (302579)

PURE RELAXATION in Nueva

Andalucia with attractive independent masseuse. Tantric and other special massages in private apartment. For gentlemen and couples, with no rush attention to your needs 656 350 401

RIVIERA DEL SOL . Treat yourself to an Excellent Massage! Irina, Cuban masseuse, fun and spontaneous. Only when a massage is something more than a massage, and becomes a unique experience, with a mixture of smells, sounds, sensations, only then is when you enjoy the perfection of the exclusive massage. Ask for more information without obligation 951 274 723, 650 237 145 (302347)

TANTRIC masseuse in Calahonda. Cristal, expert in the art of seduction and tantric massage. Authentic masseuse who manages to transmit the physical and emotional pleasure with the 5 senses. Sensual tantric massage or body to body to perfection. Make an appointment. 650 237 145 (302347)

BUTTERFLY - Massage, is a space designed for people with high sensitivity, with a taste for body to body interaction, who enjoy the sensuality and magical trantric, to feel the warm hands of an attractive masseuse running through your body. Our masseuses have been chosen not only for their physical attractiveness, but also for their sensuality and massage skills. Only by appointment 951 274 723, 650 237 145 (302347)

CALA DE MIJAS. Excellent professional masseuse with exclusive attention for people who want to change their routine and want to relax and live a relaxing experience. If you are looking for discretion and good treatment, here I am. I’m Noa and I hope you make your appointment as soon as possible because I am very requested. 650 237 145 (302347)

MY HANDS can transmit a very important message and make us feel connected. I will create a suitable atmosphere for relaxation and sensuality without noise, candlelight, soft music, nothing should disturb that moment. Before we

INSURANCE

CALAHONDA . I am your ideal masseuse if you want to enjoy a massage, relaxing and sensual and want to try the sensations that this generates. I will use my hands and body with techniques of relaxation and mutual connection. Carla – 650 237 145 (302347)

THE BEST RELAXING MASSAGE CLOSE TO ELVIRIA Tantric massages. Come and enjoy today with us. Latin masseuses for men. Come and relax. Outcall, too 650 237 145 (302347)

NEAR ELVIRIA. Masseuse, elegant with a high dose of implication. Very special tantric sensory massages. I will make you feel very relaxed with a good massage. 951 274 723, 650 237 145 (302347)

MARBELLA CENTRE - the ideal place for relaxing massage in the city centre. Available 24h and prices from €50. For reservations and information call 620 366 817. (295192)

PROFESSIONAL MALE muscled masseur. Full-body relaxing, deep tissue and therapeutic massage. In/outcalls. WhatsApp me 607 595 906 (301288)

ASIAN TOUCH unique deep massage excellent relieve pain stress luxury service guaranteed. Elviria. 633 705 558 (MI 551)

FUENGIROLA - Johanna Brazilian Mature Masseur. Relaxing Massages. Best relax guaranteed. Tel: 617.818.615 (302421)

ASIAN MASSEUR Massage relaxing & therapeutic, to release tension and stress. Fuengirola. Call 634 103 607 (301171)

LOS BOLICHES - Carolina Pretty Masseur, Relaxing Massage, Guaranteed relax - 634.703.111 (302421)

BENALMADENA lovely lady, offering you a very relaxing body massage. Call for an appointment 634 209 427 (302733)

FUENGIROLA. Japanese Shiatsu & Zen Ki relaxing and therapeutic massage. Excellent service guaranteed. Home Visits. WhatsApp for appointment 693 988 340 (302511)

WWW.LAILALYNCH1.COM

Heated pool, Jacuzzi and private bar. Inland private retreat with a full massage service. 662 913 428 (FU 2849)

FUENGIROLA. Amazing full body massage by spectacular blonde lady. 657 697 397 (FU 2776)

ESTEPONA . Susana, Latin Girl sculptural body, trained for deep relaxing massage. 697 705 304 (FU 2786)

BENALMADENA Costa by the windmill roundabout, relive body tension, massage done by Sabrina from N.Y City, 50% off seniors, pensioners, retired. 658 336 295 (fu 2879)

ASIAN wellness massage Nice area west Marbella. Guaranteed results. 623 554 233 or 623 594 698 (301500)

ESTEPONA near Cancelada. Asian Kannika gives full relaxation and more. Complete fulfillment. WhatsApp me 602 427 095 (FU 2891)

FILIPINO MASSAGE CENTRE MARBELLA, where hearts of professional massage, open daily. 660 578 171 (MI 558)

LAURA , RELAXING, TANTRIC, MASSAGE, PROFESSIONAL, 30, WORKS ALONE, DISCREET. SAN PEDRO - NUEVA ANDALUCIA. 641

346 278 (303005)

ESTEPONA . Laura majestic masseuse, very friendly, Deep body massage and stress relieve. 600 213 967 (FU 2885)

FUENGIROLA Paula 30 years old beautiful, soft sensitive massages, deep body relaxation techniques 641 244 707 (FU 2908)

TWO filipina, simpathic excellent unique relaxing massage authentic oriental massage, exclusive. Elviria. 679 126 231 (MI 558)

FUENGIROLA. Russian blonde lady, professional Tantric massage. Whatsapp and Viber 613 818 042 (2869)

FUENGIROLA. Relaxing massage made by alternative gender masseuse. Violeta Chiropractor. 660 867 374 (FU 2888)

UKRAINIAN slim, friendly, beautiful hands european massage. Marbella. 604 428 812 (MI 558)

FUENGIROLA. Marisa, 38 years old, mature, all kinds of massages. Only WhatsApp. 631 659 408 (FU 2890)

LAWYERS

BOLICHES CELINA independent loving lady, kind, beautiful affectionate only for educated discreet respectable gentleman! Enjoy deep sensitive exciting relaxing massages in private discreet apartment, quite cosy atmosphere high satisfaction! Excellent calm treatments! Demanding excellent hygiene! Appointments 11am/6pm 622 210 797 (FU 2887)

ORIENTAL slim professional massage anti stress hard, soft massage relieving Marbella 603 257 690 (MI 556)

BEAUTIFUL Asian lady offer exclusive, sensitive, prostatic, deep, soft massage pleasure to body and mind pleasure, good clean atmosphere, Marbella. Elviria. 603 257 690 (MI 558)

SAN PEDRO BEACH. RELAXING AND SENSITIVE MASSEUSES WELCOME YOU IN A PRIVATE AND DISCREET PLACE. YOUNG AND PLEASANT. WITH APPOINTMENT. EASY, PRIVATE PARKING. TEl.. 666 194 079674 679 757 (302631)

ASIAN touch www.asianmassage marbella.com combination oriental/ european massage. Elviria. 633 705 558 (MI 558)

BENALMADENA . Villa with 7 masseurs, jacuzi, room rentals, massage from 50€. Street Imperio Argentina Nº1 in BenalmadenaTel 666 29 43 26 (302711)

CANDI Spanish Student Masseur 20yrs, Ask for pictures. At Massaur center or I can come to visit. Tel 662 527 815 (302711)

ORIENTAL lady, tantric sensory generate body to body, technique, deep, soft massage. Marbella 603 208 080 (MI 558)

BENALMADENA . 2 your masseurs 19 & 22 for individual massage or couples. Hotel or home service. Tel 679 267 197(302711)

MARBELLA. Karina ts, 29, Brazilian masseuse feminine blonde. Whatsapp 667 846 464 (FU 2886)

ESTEPONA Lady, Full Body Massage. Satisfaction Guaranteed. Private apartment 686 792 992 (301469)

MARBELLA Experienced mobile Masseuse. Therapeutic, & Relaxing massage for your body and mind. Call Monik 686 740 661 (302625)

SAN PEDRO DE ALCANTARACamilla Masseur 33 - private apartment - 603 804 443 (302661)

FUENGIROLA. Thai body massage. Hawaiian, Balinese, Sonia 40, independent 657 697 397 (fu 2878)

RELAXING massages are given to soothe body and mind in the Duquesa area. 687 585 342 (302731)

THAI Benalmádena Costa. Bodybody full massages. Visits. Whatsapp 689 387 448, 632 092 619 (MI 557)

VANESSA Benalmadena excellent massage services. Relaxing & therapeutic. Home premises. Call me 624 811 098 (302736)

JAPANESE massage. Marbella. Relaxing, less stress. 664 177 216 (MI 559)

FUENGIROLA Paseo maritimo 61, private individual full massage service available 639 072 591 (302739)

DEEP relaxing Tantra Yoni/ lingam massage sessions warm eastern oils. Genuine trained Masseur. Marbella. 602 098 606 (FU 2892)

BENALMADENA. FRIENDLY attractive masseuse, relieve muscle tension. From 50€. 612 503 055 (FU 2889)

OLGA Mature Masseure relaxing & sensitive. Outcalls & Incalls. 24 hrs. Marbella – Tel: 632 467 580 (302726)

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

ACE OF SHADES - Don’t let the bugs get you! Available in enrollable, slider and pleated. Large choice of colours including wood effect. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@ace ofshades.design (101730)

MOSQUITO Screens for windows, doors and a highquality sliding patio door screen. All finishes available. Quick service. All areas covered. Call Julian 655 825 931 (301104)

MOSQUITO screens, sliding, pulldown, pleated, colours, call Mosquito Nick 647 072 861 www.mosquitonick.ws (295855)

FOR SALE

ROBERTSON CARS...would like to thank all of my past, present & future clients for their continued support over the last 35 years here in Spain. Stay safe and outdrive everyone. If contacting Samantha in the afternoons, please only Whatsapp on 608 658 785 or Email the robertsonclan@gmail.com as I am driving mostly & unable to take your calls.

ROBERTSON CARS SALE SALE SALE: RANGE ROVER SPORT

4X4 DIESEL /AUTOMATIC WAS €18,995 NOW €17,995 2011.Looks right in White, only 130,000 kms (approx 80,000miles)

Private Lady Owner, parking sensors, reverse camera, sat nav, ITV till June 2023. turns heads good looks and quality. Samantha. See photos on my web page – robertsoncars-spain.com text or whats app. 608 658 785. email the robertsonclan@gmail.com

ROBERTSON CARS SALE SALE

SALE: AUTOMATIC / CABRIO MERCEDES SLK WAS €11,500 NOW €10,995 2006 Stunning Silver only used as holiday car with 55,000KMS (Approx 35,000miles)

2 Seater Convertible have fun in the sun. New ITV. Just Passed July till 2023 ,Electric Roof folds into boot. Selling Under Book Price. Classy Great Shape Mercedes Cracker of a Cabrio. See photos on my web page – www.robertson cars-spain,com or text me whatsapp 608 658 785 Email: therobert sonclan@gmail.com

ROBERTSON CARS SALE SALE SALE: CABRIO FORD FOCUS WAS €7,995 NOW €6,995 2007 ONLY 33,000kms approx 20,000miles. Manual, great 4 Seater convertible, striking sea blue, air-condition, cd player, electric hood folds into the boot. Private gentleman owner returning to UK. Excellent condition. See photos on my web page – www.robertson cars-spain,com or text me whatsapp 608 658 785 Email: therobert sonclan@gmail.com

ROBERTSON CARS NEW YEAR.. LIKE A NEW GOLF?AUTOMATIC VOLKSWAGEN GOLF TSI EVO ADVANCE 2019 only 30,000kms, sliver, 5 door hatchback. Condition like New, super to drive, it’s VW Golf enough said! ONLY €22,500 See photos on my web page – www.robertson cars-spain,com or text me whatsapp 608 658 785 Email: therobert sonclan@gmail.com

JAGUAR XK 4.2 Coupe, 07 Auto + Paddles, RHD, Spanish registration, Silver – Black leather, Titanium Trim, 20-inch Split Rym Alloys, Cruise Control with radar, Satnav, Hands-free, Key Log Entry, Service History, 160K-km. This car is in beautiful condition and drives like new. Private Sale. Price 11,995€. Tel – 602 533 508 (302697)

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

CAR SERVICES

MOBILE MECHANIC will come to your home or work. Servicing, repairs, ITVs & diagnostics. Call Mick on 617 553 072 (301482)

ENGLISH bodyshop, fully equipped, Mijas Costa. No Job Too Small. 952 667 074 (302028)

WANTED

ALL CARS / Commercials wanted, runners or non-runners. Cash. Buyer collects. Transfer included. 605 109 796 (301158)

WANTED, wanted, wanted!! All cars, all years, all models… from exotic to classic. Spanish, English, Dutch plated. Call us on 951 977 329 or 606 647 597. (301127)

CAMPER VANS, CARAVANS, MOBILE HOMES, BOATS AND ALL PLANT, DIGGERS, DUMPERS, MOTORBIKES, CARS AND COMMERCIALS WANTED. BEST PRICE PAID, CASH TODAY, ANY REGISTRATION WITH OR WITHOUT PAPERS. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 (290739)

CAR, VANS BOUGHT WITH/WITHOUT PAPERS. CASH WAITING 678 808 837 (290739)

CARS , VANS UK OR SPANISH BOUGHT FOR CASH. FREE COLLECTION IN SPAIN/UK. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 OR 952 669 701 (290739)

CARS , VANS, ANY REGISTRATION, INSTANT CASH, FINANCE/EMBARGO UK OR SPANISH 685 524 921 (290739)

WANTED CARS AND VANS, FREE COLLECTION, SAME DAY 685 524 921 (290739)

IMPORT/TRANSFERS

CARS transferred, history checks, Imports and Embargo problems. Change of use and lost papers. Change your car to Spanish plates, simple efficient service. Cars bought and sold. Please call 678 808 837 Or email carsin spain@live.co.uk (290739)

INTERNATIONAL SKIPPER

LICENCE: Courses held in English and starts soon. VHF and Radar Courses. 626 245 098 (301483)

MALE/Female Viagra, cialis, kamagra jelly all areas. Mixed trial packs available. Delivery or mail order available 604 385 476. viagra4you19@gmail.com

SOLUCIONES RAPIDAS - We will Paint your apartment in maximum 2 days. 640 350 479 (301298)

UK & IRISH Passport renewals including photos. Complete Service. Cath’s Cards. 952 885 759. www.cathscards.es (295683)

COCKROACHES, ANTS, insects, fleas, mice, rats, wasps, termite specialists. Fumigations, bars, restaurants, houses, etc. Sanitary department officially registered certificates. Serving the coast since 1985. Only legal English owned pest control company on the coast. If you want the best then phone N.P.S. Paul 676 700 370 (1296213)

WELL-established and thriving pet transport business for sale. For more info, please contact info@petchauffeur.eu (302549)

KENNELS

CAT & DOG World Kennels and Cattery. 952 112 978 / 630 197 435. www.catanddogworld.com (302565)

ACE CHARITY ‘El Refugio’ in La Cala de Mijas is a registered charity. We have on average 275 dogs in our care and we receive no help from the town hall or the Andalucian government. We desperately need foster homes and adoptants for our many dogs, especially the small ones and puppies who do not do well in a big shelter. We are grateful for any help offered, including donations of food and blankets. Visiting times are from 13.00 to 15.00 and you can always turn up or make an appointment by calling Denise on 669 018 736. Our website is www.ace-charity.org where you can view all the dogs in our care. (93320)

ADANA THE ANIMAL SHELTER IN ESTEPONA. We always need volunteers to walk and socialise with our dogs and help with cleaning. We also need good homes for our animals that you can see on www.adana.es. Kennels open every day 10-1.30, Camino de Casares, near Parque de los Pedregales, Estepona. (5 minutes from the Poligono) For more information call 952 113 467, available from 10.00am until 2.00pm. (93319)

ANIMEX Foundation offers free will upgrading when leaving something for abandoned animals. Contact animexfoundation@gmail.com or call 692 166 434 now for this absolutely free service (288287)

If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

ARCH - The Andalucian Rescue Centre for Horses, registered charity 8448, the Centre is open to visitors every Sunday from 9am until 2pm. Working closely with the Spanish authorities, we rescue, rehabilitate and rehome abused and abandoned horses and donkeys. Come and meet our current rescues, learn about our work and how you may be able to help. Run solely by a small team of dedicated volunteers, the Centre is located between Alhaurin el Grande and Coin in Comm. de Viña Borrego behind Venta Miralmonte. For more information and directions see our website www.horseres cuespain.org, our Facebook page Centro Andalusi de Rescate de Caballos or tel. 610 845 491 or 656 935 613 (93322)

SEPE the horse and donkey charity is open to the public at weekends from 10.00 to 5.00. Volunteers are much needed in all departments and are welcome at any time. For our riding for the disabled classes, we are also in need of extra helpers. We are nationally registered by the Spanish Ministry of the Interior (164640) but only with your support can we give the equine a voice. If you can just commit to 2 or 3 euros a month it will really help make a difference. You can find us at Lauro Golf Equestrian Centre, Alqueria, Alhaurin de la Torre. Tel. 608 258 950 info@sepeonline.net www.sepeonline.net (93321)

SITUATIONS VACANT

SOS ANIMAL REFUGE we have dogs, young and old looking for homes. Some of our dogs have been with us for some time and would love to find a cosy spot to curl up in and a knee on which to rest their heads. If you have room in your heart and home we would love to hear from you. We do not put our dogs to sleep - no matter how old, they are safe with us. For day to day needs and to pay for veterinary care, we much appreciate the support we receive. We desperately need items to sell on our market stall to help raise funds and are happy to come and collect. So, if you are having a clear-out, please contact us on 605 227 155. If you would like to know more about rehoming, please call 653 257 875. Visit our website www.sos-animals.org or please phone Sandy on 952 385 923 or 666 814 056 if you would like to make a donation or help in any way.

PLUMBING

PLUMBING . Leak detection & blocked drains. Tel 952 568 414 / 661 910 772 / drainspain.com

POOLS

PROPERTY

WWW.INTERMARBELLA.COM

Costa del Sol Property Sales & Long term rentals wanted. All areas / All budgets / All types. Spain +34 951 708 422. UK +44 208 144 5008. Email info@intermarbella.com

PRIOPERTY FOR SALE

WWW.INMOANDALUZ.COM. Bargain inland properties for all budgets, fincas, village homes, apartments and villas. Legal building plots. 952 491 609 / 685 514 835 (295954)

WWW.INTERMARBELLA.COM

Costa del Sol Property for sale. All areas / all budgets / all types. Spain +34 951 708 422. UK +44 208 144 5008 Email info@intermarbella.com

PROP MAINTENANCE

STARLIGHT PROPERTY. All Areas. Residential & Holiday Lets. 689 819 592 www.starlight-spain.com

PROPERTY WANTED

SELLING UP?? Why not give us a call and let us give you an honest and realistic valuation of your property. List with us and let us take the stress out of selling your home. No sale no fee!! English agent on the ball with clients waiting. Please call 685 524 921.

THINKING of selling your property or interested in a current valuation? We have clients actively looking for properties from Torremolinos to Calahonda. List with us and let us sell your property. Call Joe 626 864 683

908 929. See Facebook Page for recommendations (301271) moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (293486)

STORAGE

moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (293486)

ROLLER SHUTTERS

ACE OF SHADES - PERSIANA (security shutter) electric and manual, various colours available including wood effect, we also offer a repair service. Make your home more secure! Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design

ROLLER shutter repairs, 7 days a week, conversion from manual to motorised, new installations. All areas covered. Coast and inland. 655 825 931

PROPERTY TO LET

LONG TERM RENTALS AVAILABLE and also wanted. Super prices. Apartments, townhouses, villas, fincas, shops, offices, bars, restaurants. Coast & inland. Tlf 679 111 522 (301480)

WWW.INTERMARBELLA.COM

Costa del Sol Property Long Term Rentals All areas / All budgets / All types. Spain +34 951 708 422 UK +44 208 144 5008. Email info@ intermarbella.com (295509)

LOS ARQUEROS GOLF: In villa, 100m2 1 twin bedroom apartment 2 bathrooms kitchenette. 800€ plus 300€ for electricity/water 644 132 738

REMOVALS & STORAGE

15 CUBIC metre van returning to the UK 17th February 2023. Space available each way. Tel. 639 928 090 (295249)

MAN AND VAN

MAN & VAN, 20€ ph. Removals, Rubbish & House Clearances. Paul 634 112 677 (291430)

2 MEN, Van €30 p hour. House Clearances & Storage. 651 081 610 (302401) moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (293486) STORAGE, Storage, Storage. Man & Van Services. Call/Whatsapp 690 155 340 (302418)

NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL

PROFESSIONAL LOCAL REMOVALS AT AFFORDABLE RATES. 1/2 DAY FROM €90. FULL DAY FROM €175. WE ALSO PROVIDE A FORTNIGHTLY DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE TO UK AND EUROPE (INCL SCOTLAND). WORLDWIDE SHIPPING TO USA, AUSTRALIA, ETC AND FULL STORAGE FACILITIES. TEL (0034) 952 578 507 OR (0034) 637 892 278 / EMAIL garymoveit@yahoo. co.uk

JDS EURO TRANSPORT & REMOVALS - Regular trips throughout Europe. Call or WhatsApp Julian 0044 7884

141/ 670 409 759 info@envi rocarespain.com www.enviro carespain.com (301178)

WESTARPOOLS. Pool construction, renovation, repairs and heating. 619 246 372 / www.westar pools.com (301120)

TAROT

POWERFUL MAGIC MAN 30 years experience in voodoo dolls, black & wihte magic. ring back love? remove all negativity & bad spirits? etc.result in 24h. 626 502 803

TRANSLATORS UPHOLSTERY

OFFICIAL TRANSLATIONS All Languages. 952 789 204 Mobile 654 613 094 sanpedrotransla tions@gmail.com (301426)

SECURITY SITUATIONS VACANT

PROTECT your villa in the Marbella region against illegal occupation. Your premises will be checked twice a week, you will receive messages & photos. 609 524 882

WE ARE a Marketing Company looking for fluent English speakers for Tele-marketing. Great opportunity to grow within the company. Basic Salary + commission. Please send your CV to vic. oreilly@aol.com or through Whatsapp on +34603 285 963

SOLAR

SOLAR Hot Water heating: FREE HOT WATER. 26 years installation history in Spain. Envirocare. All areas covered. Quality guaranteed. 952 663 141/ 670 409 759 info@envi rocarespain.com www.enviro carespain.com (301178)

SOLAR ENERGY

SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for Large Glazed Areas to Reflect Heat / Glare And Stop Furniture Fading And Still Keep The View. Save Heat in The Winter to Improve Your Living Environment. ian@solarshadet inting.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (292919)

SOFT FURNISHINGS

CURTAINS, blinds, cushions and much more. Free estimates and home visits. Tel 657 369 343 or rosannacarmella8@gmail.com

SWIMMING POOLS

POOL MAINTENANCE , & Repairs, including heaters & regrouts. Friendly & reliable service. Malaga to Estepona & inland areas. 678 791 495 / 951 536 389 www.sparklenripple.net (291440)

SWIMMING Pool Heating Pumps, Pool Covers, Rollers, Filtration Systems. 26 years installation history in Spain. Envirocare. All areas covered. Quality Guaranteed. 952 663

ADVANCED Cleaning Services. Professional carpet and upholstery cleaning, 28 years’ experience, wet/dry clean. Honest, reliable. 678 808 837 / 952 669 701 acservs@outlook.com (290739)

CARPETS AND SOFAS cleaned. Reliable, fast service. Family run. Cleansol 952 930 861 / 607 610 578. 10am - 10pm 7 days, all areas

Discount Code: EWN 1 CLEAN

UPHOLSTERY including leather cleaned also carpets. 685 524 921

WANTED

CAMPER VANS, CARAVANS, MOBILE HOMES, BOATS AND ALL PLANT, DIGGERS, DUMPERS, MOTORBIKES, CARS AND COMMERCIALS WANTED. BEST PRICE PAID, CASH TODAY, ANY REGISTRATION WITH OR WITHOUT PAPERS. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837

WATER HEATERS

Electric & Gas Water Heaters. Quality Installations. 26 years installation history in Spain. EnviroCare. All Areas Covered. 952 663 141/670 409 759 info@envirocarespain.com www.envirocarespain.com

WINDOWS

DREAM Windows & Building Services UPVC windows & doors. High quality at great prices 15yrs on the coast. All work guaranteed. Also offer Aluminium windows, Mosquito screens, Persianas, Glass replacements, shower screens & much more. Call us on 619 604 562 dreamwindow1@outlook.com

WINDOW TINTING

MOBILE SERVICE. ITV Legal. Solar Reflective tint for glass curtains, balconies, yachts. Stop fading, heat & glare. 958 496 571 - 644 546 176 ian@solarshadetinting.com

WINDOW CLEANING

TRADITIONAL WINDOW CLEANER Give your windows and doors that professional finish at affordable prices. Call Chris 604 871 121/ 952 561 607 (302562)

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.

Racing ahead

DESPITE global manufacturing and inflation crises, the Spanish motoring industry continued to drive on, closing the year with a 5.8 per cent increase in vehicle production since the year before.

A total of 2,219,462 vehicles were produced in the country during 2022, a nearly 6 per cent improvement during the last year. December’s figure of 175,245 vehicles was a particular highlight, improving more than 18 per cent on figures from 2021.

Passenger cars were the area where production improved the most during the last year, representing 1,785,432 units of the total vehicles produced, or 80 per cent.

Another sector which saw growth during 2022 was unsurprisingly electric and hybrid vehicles, which grew by nearly 32 per cent to reach 319,605. This will be a vital sector of the economy as the EU pushes member states towards selling only zero­emis­

Best Family SUV

THE KIA Sportage was named ‘Best Family SUV’ by What Car? magazine’s judging panel, ahead of all other rivals in the most popular and hotly contested vehicle segment in the UK.

sion vehicles by 2035.

The increase in production is great news for motorists seeking new vehicles after a new car shortage caused car prices on both the new and second­hand market to skyrocket. The increase in vehicles being produced should lead to falling prices during the next year.

The automobile sector is an important strategic sector of the Spanish market with nine multinational brands established in the country with 17 vehicle manufacturing plants.

The judging panel for the awards, made up of the magazine’s team of expert road testers, commented: “We’ve group tested the Kia Sportage extensively in various guises over the last 12 months, and it’s emerged victorious every time. But when you consider its competitive pricing, all of the equipment that you get as standard and how complete a car the Sportage is, it’s easy to see why.

“It strikes a near ­ perfect balance between agility and comfort, which gets it off to a great start against any rival. Meanwhile, the inte ­

Zero emissions

rior neatly blends practicality with style.”

Paul Philpott, President and CEO of Kia UK Limited, commented:

“We’re proud to see the Sportage recognised by What Car? as the ideal family vehicle. As our best ­ selling model in the

UK, it’s incredibly popular with buyers looking for a car that covers all the bases, at a range of different price points.”

Diesel prices to skyrocket

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

THE UK government is powering forward towards decarbonising its central car fleet. On January 19 it confirmed that it hit its target in switching over a quarter of all its cars (25.5 per cent) to ultra­low emission vehicles (ULEV).

Having a higher rate of ULEV vehicles in its fleet means the government is on track to meet its 2027 target for the entire fleet to be fully zero emission.

As set out in the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ Greening government commitments in 2021 to 2025, the government was required to transition a minimum of a quarter of its car fleet to ultra­low emission vehicles by the end of 2022.

Technology and Decarbonisation Minister Jesse Norman said: “As the UK moves towards a cleaner

transport network, the government is doing its part, with over 25 per cent of its central car fleet being battery ­ powered three months earlier than planned.

“It’s critical that progress in decarbonising fleets is matched elsewhere. We will continue to forge ahead, to complete the switch by 2027 and help make the UK a world leader in decarbonisation.”

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

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

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

fuel came from Russia.

The reason given for this dependence is the decoupling that exists between

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

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

CARS: Moving towards a cleaner transport network.

OIL COMPANIES: Have warned diesel prices set to rise.

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

Image: UK Government Office for Zero Emission Vehicles

KIA SPORTAGE: Incredibly popular with buyers looking for a car that covers all the bases.

Good news for Spanish automobile industry.

Photo credit: Gorodenkoff / shutterstock.com

Changes in F1 Fired after whistle blows

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

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

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

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.

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.

“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.

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.

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.

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

2

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

Big News for Walking Football…… ……and specifically Torrox Tornadoes!

AFTER several years of long negotiation and completion of numerous pieces of paperwork, Steve Lynton, Torrox Tornadoes club member and acting League President, has finally been able to persuade the Junta de Andalucia to recognise Torrox Tornadoes as the first Sports Walking Football Club in Andalucia. Although the full benefits of this breakthrough may take a while to be felt, it is thought that, after further discussions with the Junta de Andalucia and their local town halls, other Costa clubs will be able to access more municipal pitches and facilities, benefit from low/no

ground costs, and be able to attract a greater number of players of all nationalities through the heightened awareness of the health and social benefits of walking football.

This acknowledgement of

walking football as a ‘legitimate’ sport should give it a far heightened status in the eyes of the authorities, who hopefully will be accommodating when it comes to supporting the organising of special events, finals, tournaments, etc. Congratulations, Steve!

• EWN Walking Football 50s and 60s League News

Nerja Utd 60s 1 v 4 Walking Dead 60s

Nerja Utd 50s 6 v 3 Walking Dead 50s

Last weekend saw more Walking Football League ac­

tion in Nerja. Nerja Utd 60s lost to the Walking Dead 60s 1 v 4. However, Nerja Utd 50s gained some measure of revenge by beating the Walking Dead 50s 6 v 3. Both games were hotly contested with plenty of action at both ends of the pitch.

These would have been two excellent games to demonstrate to any newcomer to the sport just how exciting it can be! They were both refereed splendidly by a new addition to the leagues’ small but intrepid band of officials, Steve, who no doubt will be featured in our future refs’ profile slot before too long!

• A Walking Dead Gala Night For Your Diary

The Walking Dead WFC announce a Gala night being organised at the Millenium Cocktail Bar, Calahonda on Saturday March 25, the proceeds from which will go to Prostate Cancer UK. More details at Facebook walking footy.com

LaLiga club fires new manager

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.

WELL DONE: The Walking Dead 60s team who beat Nerja Utd 4-1 away last weekend.