Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Vélez-Málaga

VELEZ ­ MALAGA is known for its delightful beaches and public spaces, but it’s now official, thanks to the decision to renew the town’s ‘Q’ quality certifications. The council announced the renewal and expansion of the certificates on Friday, February 3.

The town renewed its existing ‘Q’ quality certifications on local beaches, dog beaches and the tourist information office. Twenty ­ four local parks will also now be recognised for their quality with the certification.

At a press conference to announce the news, town mayor, Jesús Atencia Pérez explained, “This is the result of work on the quality and excellence of our destination as a tourist and cultural destination on the Costa del Sol.”

He also highlighted the town’s record as a pioneer in the tourism industry, in 2019 it was the first town in Spain to receive the ‘Q’ certification for parks and playgrounds.

Velez ­ Malaga remains one of the towns with the most ‘Q’ certifications in the whole country.

The ‘Q’ certification is awarded to destinations and attractions which have demonstrated their commitment to environmentalism, sustainability and conservation.

ARE you searching for the perfect Valentine’s gift while helping a local animal shelter? If so, the Under Dog Animal Rescue Service could have a solution for you! The group is holding a Valentine’s Day hamper raffle, and what’s more, all products included are vegan and cruelty­free.

Local businesses have donated a variety of amazing products towards the hamper including vouchers for Scattergood Aromatherapy, a massage at Frigiliana Wellness, four bottles of wine, a taster pack of coffee from Nerja Coffee, artisan soaps, vegan truffles and brownies, home­made jewellery, hand painted vases and much more!

There’s something for everyone in the hamper, and tickets cost just €2. Entries must be in by Monday, February 13, so that the raffle can be drawn on the same day, in time for Valentine’s Day. All proceeds raised from tickets purchased for the hamper will go directly towards the Under Dog’s hard work to rescue, protect, and rehome illtreated and abused dogs across Axarquia.

Anyone interested in buying a ticket can find out more information online at: https://www.facebook.com /theunderdogspain.