Axarquia 2 – 8 March 2023 Issue 1965

WOMEN IN SOCIETY

NERJA is gearing up to celebrate Inter national Women's Day in a big way on Wednesday, March 8. And with more than 15 activities planned between Saturday, March 4 and Monday, March 27, there will be something for everyone to enjoy and get involved in.

The celebrations kick off with a con cert by the duo ‘Arcadia’ at the Villa de Nerja Cultural Centre on Saturday March 4. The following day, the Siem pre en Forma association will hold their Walk for Equality, starting from the Balcón de Europa at 12:30pm.

The highlight of the celebrations will be the institutional act on Wednes day, March 8 at 5 pm at Nerja Town Hall. The event will begin with the reading of a manifesto for women’s rights. Other exciting events will follow throughout the month.

This year's celebrations come at a time when the role of women in society is being widely discussed and debated around the world. With this ex­

cellent events programme, Nerja is sending a strong message that it values and respects the contribution of

women to society and is committed to continuing to promote gender equality.

Celebrating womanhood

RINCON DE LA VICTORIA will kick off its celebrations for International Women’s Day with a stunning exhibition entitled ‘Alma’ by local artist Marina Cuesta, which is set to open in the town hall’s courtyard on Friday, March 3. This exhibition seeks to honour and pay tribute to all women and their struggles. Featuring captivating works that explore the vulnerable yet powerful soul we carry inside us, the exhibition is sure to be an inspiring experience for all visitors.

On display will also be vibrant pieces such as a ’masks’ feature representing the feminine soul and energy. In addition, there will be phrases from Latin American and Spanish women defining what International Women’s Day means to them, making a powerful statement in support of equal rights and opportunities between men and women.

This exhibition will remain open until Friday, March 31 from 8.30am to 1.30pm on weekdays.

Rincon de La Victoria will also offer a varied programme of events throughout the whole month to celebrate the important global event including community activities, workshops and debates led by experts in gender equality.

Towards equality

REGIONAL authorities in Axarquia have unveiled an exciting programme of events to celebrate International Women’s Day, under the slogan ‘Moving onwards towards equality’. The celebrations include activities in more than 40 towns in the region, talks and shows focusing on gender equality and raising awareness about gender violence. In addition to this, local councils can also request violet­coloured information points to educate locals and visitors about gender equality.

As a way of recognising and rewarding distinguished women in the region, prizes will be given out to individuals and organisations who have made significant contributions towards gender equality within their communities, including in Rincon de La Victoria on Monday, March 6.

This year’s International Women’s Day celebrations are sure to be a memorable event that will bring together people from all walks of life towards equality.

Authorities present this year’s activities to celebrate International Women’s Day in Nerja.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Nerja

A thought-provoking exhibition by local artist, Marina Cueva will go on show to mark International Women’s Day in Rincon de La Victoria.

Photo credit: Marina Cuesta (via Facebook)

Authorities in Malaga announce plans to recognise local women in Axarquia for their action towards gender equality.

Photo credit: Diputación de Málaga

Charity trip success

ON Thursday, February 23, a group of generous community members came together for a day of cultural discovery and charity giving. Organised by volunteers from the AAR (Axarquia Animal Rescue), the group visited

the Ron Montero Rum Factory in Motril before heading to the picturesque town of Almuñrcar.

The day began with a guided tour of the rum factory, which has been producing award-winning rum since

1963. Guests learned about the rum-making process and even got to sample some of the delicious rum that has made the factory famous.

The group then headed to Almuñrcar to explore the town’s many attractions. One highlight of the day was a visit to the San Miguel castle, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Guests then had two hours of free time to enjoy lunch and do some shopping.

The group also held a raffle on the coach to raise money for two charities, AAR Local Neutering and RBL Benajarafe’s Poppy Appeal. Thanks to the generosity of the guests and entry tickets, the group was able to raise a total of €500, which will be split between the two charities.

Going BIG for International Women’s Day

AS a proud female-owned business which has always put women at the forefront of its ethos, the Euro Weekly News is this year celebrating International Women’s Day throughout the whole month of March.

Both in print across our six editions and online, expect to find inspirational interviews, thought-provoking quotes and female-focused features from Wednesday, March 1 onwards.

Yes, while others may be content to celebrate women just one day a year, at the Euro Weekly News we believe that women - responsible for some of the world’s biggest feats and advancements - should be given far more of a spot -

light.

Better still, the month will culminate in our International Women’s special, celebrating extraordinary women from across Spain and further afield!

To let us know about an inspiring woman you know, who you think we should be featuring, contact the Euro Weekly News at edito rial@euroweeklynews.com.

Thrilling classic rally

ON Saturday, February 25, Comares played host to a truly thrilling classic car rally. The sixth Clásica Villa de Comares did not disappoint, with 52 vintage vehicles over 25 years old revving their engines and roaring down the streets.

Event organiser, Manuel Melendo of the Escudo 30 club, could hardly contain his excitement at being able to hold the event again after the pandemic. He exclaimed that the event “attracts people from all over Andalucia” and expressed his enthusiasm for the unique Comares rally.

Speaking before the event, Melendo also proudly announced that this year’s event had attracted 52 entries from all over Andalucia, as well as three teams from Madrid and one from Extremadura.

“When people go low we go high, I look up to the likes of Lynn McCabe for never giving up and to just believe in yourself.” Eimear Wilson, Creative Marbella

International Women’s Day

Empowering Women’s Day

• “Extremists have shown what frightens them most. A girl with a book.”

Malala Yousafzai

• “There is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise.”

W E B Dubois

• “There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.”

Michelle Obama

• “I do not wish women to have power over men; but over themselves.”

Mary Shelley

IN celebration of all the women in the world, cities and towns across the globe will be celebrating International Women’s Day (IWD) on Wednesday March 8.

The origin of IWD is drawn from more than one historical event and began as an acknowledgement of women’s struggle to make their workplaces better.

Created out of protest and political action, it is a symbol for all those who honour women’s struggles to improve their lives. Originally the day of remembrance symbolised the efforts to end appalling working conditions endured by women in sweatshops.

At the beginning of the 20th century, many women in industrially­developing countries entered the labour force taking jobs with low wages, poor working conditions and little or no chance of improvement.

Such conditions led to industrial disputes, involving both unionised and non­unionised women workers.

It was their struggle that created the global impetus for International Women’s Day.

Today, it is also seen as a day of celebration of women, of all that they do, and the accomplishments they have made.

Women and men celebrate International Women’s Day to honour those who began the struggle and those who continue to work for change and recognition of all efforts to improve the lives of women, both locally and globally.

Jayne Harris, Harris Furnishings

‘‘A woman’s touch is very important especially in this line of work, I do all of the buying and styling, a woman’s touch is powerful, we make the home work.’’

Rebecca Serwotka, Inmobiliaria Estate Agents

“We continue to live in a male dominated world and that still shows in our industry. It’s important to support women, especially as they offer a tremendous amount of dedication in whatever they turn their hands to. But most of all, women can multitask!

There is never the perfect work/home life balance. Don’t be hard on yourself and just do the best you can!

Emma Quantrill, Golden Leaves

‘‘I heard an interview with Tom Hanks some time ago, they asked him what would you have liked your younger self to have known - he said “this too shall pass,” this resonated with me as all things pass good and bad, time is your friend not the enemy - learn and grow from your experiences it will give you the drive, ambition and determination to develop your skills to become the very best in your chosen field of expertise’.’

YOUR EWN HAS

Caroline Smith, Grupo Platinum

‘‘All I would say is women in business are as good or better than men at times. Each person is their own world and have their own ideas and thoughts. Choose to do something you love and that inspires you. Life should be enjoyable after all.’’

• “How wrong it is for a woman to expect the man to build the world she wants rather than to create it herself.”

Anais Nin

• “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”

Eleanor Roosevelt

• “It’s okay if you fall down and lose your spark. Just make sure that when you get back up, you rise as the whole damn fire.”

Colette Warden

• “What’s the greatest lesson a woman should learn? That since day one, she’s already had everything she needs within herself. It’s the world that convinced her she did not.”

Rupi Kaur

• “Human rights are women’s rights, and women’s rights are human rights.”

Hillary Clinton

• “I don’t like to gamble, but if there’s one thing I’m willing to bet on, it’s myself.”

Beyoncé Knowles

• “One is not born a woman, but becomes one.”

Simone de Beauvoir

In celebration of all women.

Image: Southworks Shutterstock.com

"It is difficult to be a woman in business but if you have the determination you can do anything. Do your research and be knowledgeable, the first year is always the hardest. It’s the workers that make the company successful and us women do make a difference.”

Diana, Top Mark Fires

Charity Games Night

ATTENTION all game enthusiasts and animal lovers! Get ready to have a blast at a charity games night on Friday, March 3 at Fitzgerald’s Bar in Nerja. The event promises to be an exciting night filled with fun games, friendly competition, and most importantly, raising money for a worthy cause.

Guests are welcome to arrive at the venue from 7.30pm, before the action gets underway. The ticket price of €10 includes a buffet as well as entry to the games, so guests can enjoy a delicious meal before playing bingo.

The event will raise money for CAS, the Costa Animal Society, a local organisation dedicated to improving the lives of animals in the area.

The ticket price includes two free tickets for the bingo game. Guests can purchase tickets by contacting Jane on: 643 515 428 or visiting the CAS charity shop.

Scandinavian tourism

ALMUÑECAR Tourist Board has set its sights on Stockholm in its latest effort to entice Scandinavian visitors to the beautiful coastal destination. The board launched its campaign on Tuesday, February 21, which aims to promote the destination and improve visitor rates recorded before the pandemic.

The promotional campaign launched at Stockholm Central Railway Station and in Sergels Square, also in the Swedish capital using five giant digital screens as advertisement boards.

Four of the screens are located inside the largest train station in Sweden, with the fifth located in the outer corner of the central Sergels Square. These strategic locations receive large numbers of visitors, and during the 10 days of promotion, the campaign was projected to

reach thousands of potential tourists thanks to its quality visuals and attention­grabbing adverts.

Local councillor for Tourism, Daniel Barbero threw his support behind the campaign emphasising the importance of the Scandinavian market for tourism

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

Tuk-Tuk tours

A BRAND­NEW touring experience is set to take Almuñecar’s tourism industry by storm. Sexi Tuk­Tuk is set to offer tourists a chance to experience the beauty of Almuñecar and La Herradura in a unique, fun and flexible way, on three wheels!

in the town.

“Tourists from Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Denmark have important direct and indirect effects on accommodation, shops, taxis, and other services. We must place special emphasis on these areas to fight against seasonality,” said Barbero.

“Behind every successful woman is herself”

The origin of the proverb is shown in 2012 by Bart Jackson and his book ‘Behind every successful woman is herself’. The meaning of the proverb is that if a woman has enough grit she can succeed, accomplish and do it on her own.

The new touring experience was launched on Friday, February 24 before rides get underway later this week. The tours plan to take tourists through the hidden gems of these beautiful towns. Sexi Tuk­Tuk is a brainchild of Bernardo Vallejo, the owner of the Berbikes shop in Almuñecar who wants to offer a new, exciting alternative for tourists and residents who want to explore the rich cultural and tourist spots in the area.

Sexi Tuk­Tuk offers two routes, each approximately two hours. The first route takes visitors through the Barrio de San Miguel, touring attractions including the Cueva de Siete Palacios and Roman Aqueduct, as well as magnificent views of Vega de Río Verde from the Arcos. The second route starts from Almuñecar and takes you through San Cristóbal and down to the Castle of La Herradura, with views of the ocean.

Almuñecar councillor for Tourism, Daniel Barbero shows off the town’s latest promotional campaign in Stockholm.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Almuñécar (via email)

"We are so lucky to have access to university education because of the women who fought before us, for our rights. Thanks to them I am in the position I am in. I work for myself and I am very grateful for the past. I have so much hope for equality. My mother inspires me, her strength gave me strength.”

Daniella Hunter, Lawyer

Viking’s charity triumph

FOR the fifth consecutive year, the Viking Street Workout Club from Torre del Mar has successfully sold 1,000 copies of their popular charity calendar, raising €5,000 to support the Deaf Association of Axarquia.

At a ceremony held to deliver the money raised on Monday, February 27, the deputy mayor of Torre del Mar, Jesús Pérez Atencia, expressed his admiration for the club’s unwavering commitment to charity, saying “The calendar has become part of Torre del Mar’s DNA. Every year it costs more and more to improve and create original calendars, but they never fail to amaze us, raising more money.”

The Viking Street Workout Club has become a fixture in the community, and their annual charity calendar is eagerly anticipated by fans and supporters alike. Manuel Pérez, secretary of the Viking Club, added, “Every year it is more difficult, because new technology means that calendars are less and less popular.”

Francisco Blázquez, President of the Deaf Association of Axarquia expressed his gratitude saying, “Thanks to the Viking WorkOut Club and the local council for their support in improving the future for the local deaf community.”

Rescue dog walks

EVERY Sunday at 9.45am, a group of dog lovers meets up in Nerja to take dogs from the APAA Animal Rescue Shelter out for a scenic walk around beautiful mountainside paths on the outskirts of the town, near their Dog Hotel.

The aim of the group is to provide exercise and socialisation for the dogs, as well as to give them a much­needed break from the shelter environment.

The group has been growing in popularity recently, with more and more people joining in each week. The walks usually last for a couple of hours, and most walkers take one dog for a half­hour walk before returning to the shelter to swap for another dog. The goal is to get all of the dogs out to enjoy fresh air and exercise.

The group is organised by Sue Kiff, who can be contacted at: apaanerja.station ofhope@gmail.com with your phone number to be added to the WhatsApp group. Alternatively, contact Ester Pulido via their Face­

Headed north

RESIDENTS looking for an exciting adventure to escape the heat of the Axarquia are welcome on Lux Mundi Ecumenical Group’s upcoming coach trip to the north of Spain! From Monday, May 29 to Saturday, June 3, guests will have the opportunity to explore four incredible cities in the region, including Burgos, and Bilbao.

With an exciting itinerary planned, this six­day adventure promises to be a unique experience. The trip offers opportunities to explore historic landmarks, sample delicious local cuisine and take in the stunning scenery of northern Spain.

book blog: https://www.face book.com/groups/19525282

84959652.

The walks are also an opportunity for walkers to get to know dogs up for adoption, like on Sunday, February 26, when one dog was officially adopted.

For guests who are members of the Lux Mundi Torre del Mar group, the trip costs €530 for a single room or €730 for a double room in four­star hotels. Non­members can join for €20 more.

One of the highlights of the trip is sure to be the visit to the world­renowned Guggenheim museum in Bilbao, a must­see destination for anyone interested in the arts.

Guests will also have the chance to explore the historic cities of Vitoria, Segovia and Burgos, home to stunning cathedrals and other architectural wonders.

Lisbon discovers Axarquia

TOURISM experts from Axarquia are making their way to the Lisbon Tourism Fair, which is taking place until Sunday, March 5, in an attempt to showcase the best it has to offer to Portuguese travellers.

Axarquia is known for its Mediterranean gastronomy and the combination of coast and inland, which are the main attractions which the region’s Tourism Board is seeking to promote.

According to research by the body, Portuguese travellers are looking for nearby destinations with a difference, which is where Axarquia fits in.

The Tourism Board is also bringing local products to the fair, including extra virgin olive oil, grapes and sultanas and artisan honey from Frigiliana, to showcase the unique gastronomy that the region has to offer.

Dogs from APAA Nerja get some exercise.

Operation: American Stuff Ability test for over 65s

THE DGT has introduced changes that see anyone who wishes to renew their driver’s licence at age 65 required to undertake an ability test.

The announcement also affects those aged 70 and over who will need to complete the same ability test every two years in order to retain their licence. Similarly, anyone aged between 18 and 65 will be required to pass the same test every 10 years.

It is understood the changes are an attempt to reduce the number of accidents on the road although there are differing views about the incidence of accidents involving those over

65. María José Aparicio, Deputy Director of Road Education and Training, told a news source that the death toll involving drivers rises from the age of 65. However, that is disputed by Línea Directa Foundation which along with Fesvial and Centro Zaragoza carried out research that suggested: “Drivers over 65 years of age respect speed

limits more and do not drive abruptly as they have their own age limitations, as well as avoiding driving at night or making long journeys.”

The study also found that the number of accidents involving the over 65s was up to four times less than those involving under 25s and half that of people aged between 35 and 44.

“Strong, fun and adventurous like a mind-blowing landscape; courageous, persistent and a fighter like a lioness looking after her cubs; responsible and organised like a parent cooking for their children; successful like your favourite grandma’s dish; creative, passionate, memorable and indestructible like a Dali painting; this is a woman. A powerful heart full of love and happiness to share with the world. Appreciate who they are and your life will be meaningful.”

Miss Sara, International School of Estepona

SPANISH police have recovered 24 high­end vehicles stolen in the United States in an undercover operation code ­ named ‘American Stuff’. On Monday, February 20, the Guardia Civil confirmed that the stolen vehicles were found in the port of Algeciras with a market value amounting to €2 million.

The investigators, in the context of the risk analysis carried out in the port of Algeciras during the last year, had detected an increase in the illicit traffic of high­end vehicles from the United States through containers.

HIGHEND: The vehicles were found in Algeciras port.

As a result of the control, identification and inspection of containers destined for or in transit in Spain, which are carried out daily in the container terminal of the port of Algeciras, a phase of intensification of the services aimed at checking containers in transit which could be carrying stolen vehicles from the

THE first images of an otter emerging from the Mediterranean Sea have been captured at Cap de Creus, northeast of Catalonia.

Until now, it was known that some specimens of this freshwater species lived in coastal areas of the Emporda, but it had not been possible to record them leaving the sea.

The images have been captured as part of a monitoring project on the Alt Emporda coast, being carried out by the Department of Climate Action and the Barcelona Zoo Foundation.

The specimen recorded is an adult male and

USA destined for African countries began at the beginning of the year.

The officers have been able to verify that the vehicles were stolen in the United States and have therefore been returned to the authorities they are collaborating with, in order to continue with the investigations.

Otterly great

would be part of these first family groups of otters that are already known to live most of the time at sea.

In order to continue deepening the knowledge of these otters throughout 2023, the monitoring methods will be expanded. The news comes after EWN reported in February that the otter had reproduced in Spain’s Mogent River for the first time after more than four decades.

Driving ability test.

‘‘Having the ability to educate and empower all of the students that cross my path is the reason I adore my profession. However, as a woman, I strive to be a role model to my female students and ensure that they know they have a voice worth listening to and that their opinions and goals matter! It is of great importance that every student, regardless of gender, feels that their dreams can come true. As the famous saying goes 'little girls with dreams become women with vision’.”

Charity worker freed

A 24­YEAR­OLD Spanish woman has finally been freed by the Iranian authorities after spending nearly four months in prison over her involvement in the anti­government protests that swept the country last year.

Ana Baneira was arrested and imprisoned at the beginning of November, although the exact details of her detention were been made public.

The young Galician woman, a member of a non­profit human rights organisation,

was reportedly taking part in the mass demonstrations over the death of Masha Amini at the hands of the Iranian police for failing to wear the veil correctly. Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Al­

THE Spanish Ministry of Health announced on Friday, February 24, that the safety protocol had been initiated in the Valencian Community. It was activated because of a suspected case of a person suffering from the deadly Marburg virus.

They pointed out that the patient’s biological samples had been sent to the reference laboratory of the Carlos III Health Institute in Madrid for possible confirmation of the case, as reported by a local news source.

A 34­year­old man was found to be displaying symptoms compatible with the disease. He apparently visited Equatorial Guinea during a period of time that could correspond

bares confirmed that Baneira is “in good health” and was set to land in A Coruña on Monday, where she could finally be reunited with her family and friends. Albares had previously contacted his Iranian counterpart to demand the release of the charity worker, as “the charges of which she was accused were totally unfounded.” All efforts are now focusing on achieving the release of another Spanish citizen who is still behind bars in Iran.

Deadly virus

to the incubation and development of the disease.

The patient was transferred from a private hospital and subsequently admitted to the High­Level Isolation Unit of the La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital in Valencia.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Marburg virus is a disease with a case­fatality ratio of up to 88 per cent. The disease was initially detected in 1967 after simultaneous outbreaks in Marburg and Frankfurt in Germany, and in Belgrade, Serbia.

Insurance slip-up

FALLING over while out for a snack during work hours is now classed as a workplace accident in Spain. The Supreme Court this week ruled in favour of a woman who slipped in the street on the way to a bar in Andalucia in 2016, which left her temporarily unable to work. A judge initially ruled that nipping out for something to eat during work hours “is a normal activity within the working day,” and therefore the mutual insurance company associated with the employee’s firm should take responsibility and pay for the victim’s work leave. The insurance company contested the ruling, requesting that as the fall occurred outside the workplace it should not be their responsibility.

However, this week the Supreme Court finally ratified the original ruling, stating that “the accident was work­related, as it took place during working hours and within the rest period to which the employee was entitled.

“Had the employee not been working at the time, the accident would not have taken place,” reasoned the judge.

Mass demonstrations.

Image by Ryan Thomas/Shutterstock

Miss Evie, International School of Estepona

THE Queen’s Award for Enterprise and The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service has been renamed following the Accession of King Charles III. The Awards will become The King’s Award for Enterprise and The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.

Throughout Her Late Majesty’s 70 ­ year reign, Queen Elizabeth II was committed to recognising outstanding work and acts of service by individuals and groups. By attaching His Majesty’s name to these awards, The King has emphasised his desire to continue Queen Elizabeth’s legacy of recognising outstanding businesses and recognising the significant contribution of volunteers each year across the United Kingdom.

As Prince of Wales, His Majesty The King has been closely involved with the Awards for a number of years. His Majesty hosted the annual Royal Reception for both Awards on behalf of Queen Elizabeth since 2018, as well as recording a personal video message to refocus the Sustainable Development award category in 2019.

Name change

The newly renamed King’s Award for Enterprise cele

brates outstanding achieve

ment by UK businesses and is internationally recognised. The 2023 Awardees will be announced on Friday, April 21, marking Queen Elizabeth II’s birthday, and on May 6 from 2024, the anniversary of The King’s coronation.

Without a referendum

SCOTLAND could achieve independence even without a new referendum.

This was the most surprising message of the campaign launch speech by Ash Regan, the third candidate to lead the Scottish National Party following Nicola Sturgeon’s decision to stand down.

According to Regan, if pro­independence parties won a majority of seats and votes at a general election “the international community will see that and I think that clear instruction should be enough to trigger those negotiations,” she was quoted by a local news source as saying.

However, this approach is not a popular one, as it is very similar to an original plan that was already shelved by the SNP following Sturgeon’s resignation announcement.

Several opinion polls also show that such a proposal would cost the SNP an election if it was the central theme of the campaign.

Awards been renamed. Image: UK Gov / Deptment for Media, Culture & Sport

PRESS EUROPEAN

DENMARK

Green energy

DENMARK will put nine gigawatts of offshore wind capacity out to tender by late 2023, increasing output fivefold by 2030, the country’s Ministry of Climate, Energy and Utilities announced. The green electricity would cover the annual consumption of more than nine million households, the ministry said.

THE NETHERLANDS

Butt out

THE Netherlands’ government is losing its battle against cigarette ends that litter streets and beaches. One filter tip can contaminate 1,000 litres of water, but the current policy of discouraging smoking to limit the toxic plastic waste that they produce was ineffectual, the Environment Ministry admitted.

BELGIUM

Hello dad

BELGIUM’S 88-year-old monarch, King Albert recently embraced his illegitimate daughter Princess Delphine, 54, in public. It was the first display of affection between them since a court ruled that he was the father of Delphine Boel, daughter of his long-time mistress Baroness Sybille de Selys Longchamps.

GERMANY

Fast track

INTERNATIONAL goods trains entering and leaving Germany via the Decin bridge and tunnel that link the country with the Czech Republic can now increase their speed. Improvements involved replacing the superstructure of the 265-metre bridge, built over the Elbe 1916, and rehabilitating the tunnel.

FRANCE

Dolphin watch

ENVIRONMENTALISTS pressured the French government to protect dolphins as hundreds wash up on France's Atlantic coast and thousands more die in fishermen’s nets each year. The real number could be far higher, scientists said, as 80 per cent of dead dolphins sink or decompose at sea.

NORWAY

New arrivals

SCIENTISTS detected 58 new types of midges and 47 water mite species in Norway, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology announced. Finding so many new species was due to increased funding and the presence of two of Europe’s leading experts in the field, the university said.

FINLAND

True or false

FINLAND is less susceptible to fake news than other countries, Bulgaria’s Open Society Institute found. Researchers placed the US, UK, France and Germany in a second group, followed by Italy and Israel in third place, with Georgia, Turkey, Kosovo, Albania, Moldova and Bulgaria ranked fourth.

IRELAND Gas guzzler

IRELAND trails Europe in reducing natural gas consumption, figures from Eurostat, the EU’s statistics agency revealed. In the half-year between August 2022 and January 2023, Ireland reduced its natural gas consumption by 0.3 per cent, compared with 19 per cent in the 27 EU countries.

ITALY

No hassle

ITALY has the EU’s best passport and is the third most powerful worldwide behind Singapore and Japan. Travelling on an Italian passport in 2023 ensures entry to most countries in the world, although those who are Italian citizens can enter 45 countries with just a valid ID card.

PORTUGAL

Locked out

LOCKBIT ransomware took credit for February’s attack on the public water system in Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city. Aguas e Energia do Porto announced that it had been hit, but its security team had limited the damage and the water supply and sanitation were not affected.

UKRAINE Keep going

BUSINESS for Ukrainian pet food manufacturer Kormotech and its 1,300 employees was initially disrupted by the Russian invasion. A year later, thanks to the Lviv-based company’s agile decision-making and good fortune, sales are up, while also providing Ukraine with muchneeded tax revenue.

SWEDEN

Jobs lost

ERICSSON will cut 1,400 jobs in Sweden, the company said in late February. The telecoms giant had already announced in December that it intended to save nine billion krona (€824.9 million) by the end of 2023 as demand slowed in some markets, including North America.

BUSINESS EXTRA Share-out FINANCE

Bonus boost

UNION leader Sharon Graham called for a windfall tax on UK banks after NatWest’s CEO Alison Rose received £5.2 million (€5.9 million) in pay. The bank recently reported its largest profits since 2007, increasing its bonus pool from last year’s £298 million (€338.4) to £367 million (€416.8).

Leaving home

THE Basque Region’s autonomous government is making plans to introduce payments of €300 in 2024 to assist the emancipation and independence of the 25 to 29 age group. The grant will be limited to those earning less than €28,000 a year, announced regional president Iñigo Urkullu.

Get online

THE cost of living continued to strain household budgets, pushing people into digital exclusion, warned Baroness Stowell, chairwoman of the Lords Digital Committee. Ending this exclusion could generate £13.7 billion (€15.5 billion) in economic benefits over 10 years while costing only £1.4 billion (€1.6 billion).

Backpay time

ELDERLY women could receive nearly £1.5 billion (€1.7 billion) in state pension arrears, the UK government admitted. Former Pensions minister Steve Webb agreed that some women’s payments were not increased when their husbands reached retirement age or died, or when they themselves reached 80.

Fewer hours

BANK OF SPAIN analysis of the country’s working hours concluded that although these had partly returned to normal following the pandemic, employees in most sectors worked fewer hours than in 2019. The only exceptions were agricultural workers and those in the property sector.

STAT OF WEEK €8.2 billion

was generated by Spain’s perfumes and cosmetics sector last year, a figure which industry sources said was “extremely positive” after the sales setback caused by the pandemic.

Zara’s secret weapon

Linda

Hall

AS International Women’s Day approaches, Marta Ortega prepares to celebrate her first year as Inditex president.

She is the 39­year­old daughter of Amancio Ortega, Spain’s richest man and one of the richest in the world, who founded the Inditex empire based on the Zara clothing chain.

Kantar, which ranks world brands, placed Inditex at the head of Spain’s top brands in 2022 for the fifth consecutive year, ahead of Movistar, Iberdrola or Santander.

Ortega’s daughter succeeded Pablo Isla, who twice received Harvard Business Review’s Best­performing CEO award. He was Inditex’s executive

SPAIN’S gender pay gap grew to 25.5 per cent in 2021 according to Gestha, which represents tax authority Hacienda’s employees.

The union’s Brecha salarial y techo de cristal (Salary Gap and the Glass Ceiling) found that on average men took home €4,713 more than women in 2021, an increase of €120 on the preceding year.

Gestha noted that the difference in earnings was accentuated in 2021 owing to a reduction in the number of furloughed workers during the pandemic.

Short straw

THERE are twice as many women working on temporary contracts in Spain’s public sector than men. By the last quarter of 2022, 352,300 men and 712,000 women were not established workers, announced the CSFI union which represents public sector employees.

These figures were practically identical to those of pre­pandemic levels, the CSFI said, and indicated the existence of greater instability than in the private sector, where there were fewer situations like these. Women taking leave of absence to look after family members quadrupled the number of men, with six times as many likely to reduce working hours, the union added.

president between 2012 and 2022 and when the company announced in November 2021 that Ortega would take over as executive president in April 2022, share prices fell sharply. Nevertheless, last year’s results have been hailed as ‘spectacular’. With net profits of €3.1 billion in 2022 and a 19 per cent increase in sales, Amancio Or­

tega’s daughter demonstrated the wisdom of a meticulous strategy which began in 2011.

After finishing a degree in Business Studies in London, she began working at the age of 23 in Zara’s Chelsea branch, before moving on to Bershka and eventually to the Inditex head office in Arteixo (La Coruña).

There was never any doubt that Ortega, described by the Wall Street Journal as “Zara’s secret weapon,” would take over from her father.

“She has lived the business from the inside, alongside Amancio,” journalist Jesus Salgado Alvarez said recently.

“He saw that they shared the same interests. She was the one, and insiders never questioned her appointment.”

Mind the gap

that the increases in 2022 and 2023 would produce a “notable reduction.”

It would take 40 years to close the gulf entirely, the union predicted.

The report pointed out that Spain’s minimum wage increases between 2019 and 2021 had “significantly” reduced the wage gap and foresaw

The salary differences were especially substantial in Madrid, Gestha said, where women earned €7,511 less each year, compared to €1,956 in the Canary Islands.

The survey also discovered that women actually earned between €226 and €153 more than men on lower­paid salaries of €20,055 and €33,425 a year but received €40,381 less once these rose be ­

Sparky idea

MARKS & SPENCER are testing a premium version of their Sparks loyalty card.

Perks that will come with the £120 (€136.3) fee include free and unlimited next ­ day deliveries, a monthly £10 (€11.6) voucher and a free coffee each month from any M&S cafe.

Sparks customers will also have a weekly chance of winning their shopping free every week across 1,487 stores and one free drink for every six that they buy in­store.

The retailer explained that the trial involved existing Sparks customers and it would await results before widening the service nationwide.

Experts said the move would also guarantee M&S upfront cash from regular shoppers.

ANA BOTIN, president of Santander Bank, received a 2022 bonus of 736,160 share options at €3.08 each, instead of their current €3.54 market price.

Payment in options is an alternative to a cash bonus, entitling Botin ­ whose bank made a net profit of €9.6 billion last year ­ to obtain the shares at a fixed price over a certain period.

Should the share price rise, Botin could then acquire them at the reduced rate before selling at a profit. But she could also run the risk of seeing the shares fall below €3.08 and reduce the value of her bonus.

Piece of cake

yond €133,700.

Age played an important part, the Gestha experts found, with a difference of between €682 and €1,339 for the under 25s which rose to €6,537 from the age of 56 onwards, reaching €10,763 for women who were 65 or over.

“This is a clear reflection on the amount of time that women devote to their families to the detriment of their professional development,” Gestha said.

What it costs

EACH year the Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) produces a report on the cost of raising a child from birth to the age of 18.

In 2022 this amounted to approximately £150,000 (€170,335) for a couple and £200,000 (€227,2145) for single parents.

“Childcare has become an increasingly large component of this outlay for working parents who are not fortunate enough to have unpaid family care available,” the November 2022 report said. “Rising childcare costs now comprise 60 per cent of the lifetime cost of a child for a couple who work full time, compared to around 40 per cent in 2012.”

A study by Raisin Bank put the cost of caring for a child from birth to adulthood in Spain still higher, requiring €300,000 for healthcare, education, food and clothing.

FINSBURY FOOD GROUP, the speciality bakers behind Mary Berry’s cake range, have posted double­digit sales growth.

The company, which supplies supermarkets and makes cakes, bread, buns and snacks welcomed an ‘encouraging’ firsthalf performance.

Revenues had increased 15 per cent to £191 million (approximately €271 million), thanks to higher prices although the group warned of challenges, as profits were hampered by cost inflation.

Operating profit was flat at £6.5 million (€7.4 million) which the group, listed on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM), ascribed to higher input costs which ate into margins.

Windfall tax

SPAIN’S energy sector has now paid an upfront €817.4 million on a 1.2 per cent windfall tax on 2022 and 2023’s excess profits.

Banks have also provided another €637.1 million through a 4.8 per cent levy on their net profits over €800 million, announced Finance minister Maria Jesus Montero on February 20 when 50 per cent of the taxes fell due.

Both of the temporary taxes were introduced to compensate for the government’s anti ­ inflationary measures offsetting the cost of living crisis faced by many families.

Photo credit: Flick/Paolo Rose

GLOBAL BRAND: A Zara store in Sydney (Australia).

WAGE GAP: Will take women 40 years to catch up with men.

Photo credit: Pixabay/Rodrigo Salomon HC

- FTSE 100

DOW JONES

Currency outlook: US dollar firms in risk-off trade, Pound rocked by fluctuating BoE rate expectations

Euro

EUR/GBP: Unchanged at £0.88

EUR/USD: Down from $1.08 to $1.06

Trade in the euro has been erratic over the past month amid a repricing of European Central Bank (ECB) interest rate expectations and concerns over the conflict in Ukraine.

EUR investors were confident going into the ECB’s February policy meeting that the bank would deliver several more hikes this year.

While the bank delivered a 50bps hike and signalled it would pursue another increase of equal size in March, it indicated it’s March hike might be its last for now. Triggering a slump in EUR exchange rates.

The euro was then subsequently pressured by concerns over Russia’s next moves in Ukraine, amid considerable speculation Vladimir Putin would launch a new ground offensive to coincide with the first anniversary of the war.

Coupled with the single currency’s negative correlation with the US dollar this kept the pressure on EUR exchange rates.

Going forward it’s likely that events in Ukraine may continue to dictate movement in the euro. Any escalation of the conflict is likely to exert more pressure on EUR exchange rates.

BUSINESS EXTRA

On the scent

SPAIN is the EU’s second most­affected country regarding counterfeit perfumes and cosmetics, losing 16 per cent of genuine sales amounting to €1 billion each year, revealed Spain’s National Perfumer and Cosmetics Association (Stampa). As well as damaging the firms’ reputations, the fakes also destroyed an annual 8,000 jobs, Stampa said.

Strike off

THE Inditex retail clothing chain has agreed to pay a fixed minimum salary of between €18,000 and €24,500 a year for all employees, the majority of them women, who work in their shops. The wages pact, described as “historic,” arrived only hours before a strike was due to begin.

Pound

GBP/EUR: Unchanged at €1.13

GBP/USD: Down from $1.23 to $1.20

Heading into February, the pound enjoyed relatively robust support amid Bank of England (BoE) interest rate speculation.

Sterling then quickly fell from grace at the start of February, with the GBP/EUR exchange rate plunging to a four-month low after the BoE’s first rate decision of the year. While the bank raised rates by 50bps, its dovish signals lead to speculation the BoE might be nearing the end of its hiking cycle.

Trade in the pound was then choppy in the

weeks that followed. Buoying Sterling sentiment were some hawkish comments from BoE policymakers in addition to confirmation the UK narrowly avoided slipping into a recession at the end of 2022.

A softer-than-expected inflation print in January then placed renewed pressure on GBP exchange rates in mid-February. Before a surprisingly strong PMI release helped to revive BoE rate hike bets and catapult the pound higher again.

Looking ahead, it’s likely BoE rate speculation will remain a key catalyst of movement for the pound. If GBP investors grow more confident

Her father’s daughter

Linda Hall

JUANA ROIG, the 32-year-old daughter of Mercadona’s owner Juan Roig, heads the supermarket chain’s online division.

Responsible for leading the company’s digital transformation for the last five years, she was recently asked if she ever considered taking over from her father.

Speaking during a podcast for the Barcelona Itnig startups hub, Roig immediately answered no. She said she hoped that particular moment would be a long time in arriving.

She added that it made sense for an executive to be a family member before declaring that shares, not the post, were inherited. “We’d see who was bestprepared when the time came although we’re not there yet,” she said, echoing her father’s pronouncement that legacies can be bequeathed but not management or jobs.

Juana Roig also dismissed the possibility of floating Mercadona on the stock exchange or selling the chain.

“Right now, it wouldn’t be

sold for anything in the world, it’s like my father’s fifth daughter,” she declared. She admitted that being her parents’ daughter was probably her career’s most relevant achievement, emphasising that it had not been exactly easy. “Being the boss’s daughter is hard, as it has its good side and its bad side. You wear a label, you know that and you accept it. Nobody sees the real you,” she said.

Ask uncle for a loan

ANYONE looking for a pawnshop can still find one by looking for three golden balls hanging outside.

According to legend, the balls honour St Nicholas who saved three girls from destitution by lending each a bag of gold as a dowry so she could marry. Dowries are no longer a necessity but pawnshops remain and two pawnbrokers, H&T and Ramsden, are quoted on the stock market.

As the cost of living rises, they and others are doing a roaring trade, and not only with those of modest means.

The well-heeled are increasingly pawning Rolex watches, diamonds and fine art in preference to pay-day loans when needing some ready cash, sector insiders said.

the bank will deliver at least two more hikes and Sterling is likely to strengthen.

US Dollar

USD/GBP: Up from $0.80 to $0.82

USD/EUR: Up from €0.91 to €0.93

The US dollar traded sideways through the end of January as a prevailing risk-on mood countered a stronger-than-expected US GDP print.

The start of February then saw the US dollar briefly plunge to a nine-month low against the euro after a dovish 25bps interest rate hike from the Federal Reserve.

However, the ‘Greenback’ was quick to find its feet as January’s non-farm payroll release smashed expectations. Coupled with a hotterthan-forecast inflation print these revived expectations for at least two more interest rate hikes from the Fed this year, and underpinned USD demand through the first half of February.

The US dollar then extended these gains in the second half of a month as a stark rise in geopolitical risks bolstered the currency’s safehaven appeal.

The US dollar now looks well positioned to extend these gains into March as the currency is likely to be underpinned by Fed rate hike bets and souring risk appetite.

Brexit-hit farmers

MINETTE BATTERS, president of the UK’s National Farmers Union, urged the government to support food producers.

This was the only way that farmers could supply British households and a growing world population, she said.

Batters, who owns a cattle, sheep and arable farm in Wiltshire, said farmers and growers had “an opportunity and a duty” to make the most of Britain’s maritime climate by producing food for consumers at home and abroad.

Farmers, unenthusiastic about the government’s postBrexit subsidies introduced to compensate for the loss of the EU’s common agricultural policy (CAP), were also affected by a chronic labour shortage, Batters said.

Agricultural overheads had risen by nearly 50 per cent since 2019 and this, together with huge cost inflation, could trigger a slump in UK food production, she warned.

Full nest syndrome

THE empty nest syndrome that hits mothers when children leave home no longer affects 20 per cent of British families.

Research by credit card firm Capital One UK found that around one in five parents expect at least one of their adult children to move back as inflation and high rents put a strain on their finances.

Seventy-five per cent of the 2,000 parents taking part in the survey told Capital One that they would welcome their children with open arms if they were struggling financially. Researchers also learnt that nearly half the participants already had friends whose adult children now lived in the family home again. However happy parents might be to re-accommodate their offspring, the cost could hit them hard. The average family expected energy and food bills to rise by £272 (€308.8) a month, Capital One found.

STERLING: Heading into February the pound enjoyed relatively robust support.

JUANA ROIG: In charge of Mercadona Online.

Photo credit: Juana Roig, Mercadona

OTHERS THINK IT

WHAT a dreadful state the human race now finds itself in. Every week I mentally rumble on through possible subject matter to feature in my weekly blurb and every week I generally leave all the turmoil behind and revert to some other focus of interest. One of the problems is that world events now seem to proceed at such a pace that we sometimes require daily publications, simply to keep up. This month has been no exception.

Delilah, a song, written by pals of mine and loved by millions, is banned because it offends a handful of woke numbskulls. Biden visited the Ukraine. All well and good; if President Roosevelt had offered the same aid to Poland in 1939 Hitler would have been stopped in his tracks. Let’s just hope that China doesn’t decide the time is right to join Russia and go nuclear.

The horrendous earthquakes in Turkey have caused supposed illegally erected buildings to crumble. Let’s trust those responsible are brought to book and punished accordingly.

I’m a poster boy

The tragic case of Nicola Bulley has been a terrible strain both on her family and a caring public. I will be interested to hear why the police took so long to find her body in the river and if there is any evidence of assault or criminal intent. Then we come to the heart­ rending murder of Brianna Ghey.

This was the 16­year­old transgender girl, fatally stabbed to death last week. Two 15 ­ year ­ olds have since been charged with her murder. To me crimes of this intensity are undoubtedly instigated by the woke insurgents, who are attempting to change the society and culture of the West at such a gangbuster rate that is causing alarm and a whole multitude of misgivings and issues to spread among the heterosexual and white majorities ­ particularly the young.

Over 70 per cent of media advertisements and documentaries now contain non­white actors, who actually represent only 15 per cent of the population. Ads depict large numbers of mixed marriage and relationships, with many black actors cast in the leading roles of those giving advice

WOMAN POWER OUR VIEW

and information to white members of the community. This is more woke indoctrination, promoting minorities, causing more harm than good and creating a rising tide of racist violence and gender antagonism by the day. Oddly the advertisement which actually shows the true make ­ up of British culture is the one which depicts the post code lottery. As this takes place among true, non­typecast members of UK neighbourhoods, the winners from all these areas are predominately white. A true and nonwoke example of what the majority of UK districts truthfully represent.

Just to round off this week, I recently had the oddest occurrence. LBC, which is of course one of the UK’s biggest radio stations, broadcast a caller who weirdly announced that Leapy Lee had become the ‘poster boy for the anti­woke society’.Yaaay. And Nicola Sturgeon has finally given up. Yaaay. Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com expatradioscotland. Mon. Fri. 1pm till 4.

I JUST WANT TO SPEAK TO A HUMAN!

NORAJOHNSON BREAKINGVIEWS

THERE are so many things wrong in the UK currently that it’s practically impossible to get numbers down to even a top ten. Whenever back there, however, one of my almost daily frustrations is attempting to speak to a human in any organisation via any medium.

Some have removed phone contact, others email addresses and even chat messages (although that point may not be a bad thing with banks, with which you ‘live chat’ only to discover that the agent is actually dealing with some 300 ‘chatters’ and may get back to you tomorrow). And why are so many actual staff still working from home, especially government agencies like HMRC, DVLA etc?

Question: Why is it so difficult to speak to a human in wealthy, successful organisations?

Answer: Because they become successful initially by being small, flexible and customer­focused. Then they trade on that reputation to grow to a size where they're bought out by MegaGlobalCorp Inc, who keep those direct debits rolling over whilst sacking everyone and closing down most of the back ­ office operation. Customer service’s an irrelevance, and if they spend any money it's on daft advertising campaigns.

Lordy, another lie down needed!

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.

ON Thursday, March 8, nations across the world celebrate International Women’s Day.

Created in 1977 by the UN as a day to raise awareness of different women’s issues globally, International Women’s Day shows us how far the world has come; and how far it has left to go.

Think of the world just 100 years ago when women couldn’t vote, mothers couldn’t work, and women couldn’t apply for loans without a male guarantor, or evenly inherit money if there was already a male heir. In short, anything that allowed women to have what we would now consider an actual life of their own.

There were always exceptions of course (Gentleman Jack, Beatrix Potter) but as well as being generally wealthier to start with (giving them considerably more freedom than many other women), they really were the exception, not the rule.

In the western world at least, freedoms, rights and equalities really are now the rule.

While there is a lot to celebrate in this though, let’s not allow this success to make us forget the same is not true to women everywhere in the world. And that we can only truly celebrate equality when it actually applies equally to all women.

Noraistheauthorofpopularpsychological suspenseandcrimethrillersandafreelancejournalist.

LeapyLee’sopinionsarehisownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

WE MUST BE JOKING

BEFORE the laws of political correctness, we told jokes. Many were profane. They could be sacrilegious, obscene, racist or downright sick. Some of these I found funny while at school and shortly after, but no longer do. Others are still funny but not very pleasant.

Looking back I chortle or snigger at the clever ones, many of them two ­ liners. But it is a long time since I heard anybody tell a joke. Is it because we stop telling them as we age or is it that we no longer have the same sense of humour? We need to laugh. We must be joking.

It is difficult to imagine any ‘snowflake’ being offended by this: Customer: “Fish and chips twice, please.” Waiter: “I heard you the first time.” Or the Sunday night weather forecast: “Tomorrow will be muggy, followed by “Tuegy, Weggy, Thurgy ….” Maybe such jokes turn up on social media, but I very much doubt it.

On the other hand, many people today would be outraged by this: Customer: “I’ll have the pissoles and chips.” Waiter: “Sorry?”

Customer shows waiter the menu: “Here; pissoles and chips!”

“That’s not a P, it’s an R.” “Okay, then; arseholes and chips.” And yet the F ­ word is used as frequently on television today as the word ‘never’.

In the past, comedy shows commonly raised their laughs by the

way the lines were spoken. In many cases, as long as a poor ‘joke’ was delivered in a Cockney or northern accent, audiences would howl with (canned?) laughter. Today, it seems that a gay accent has the same effect.

More recent popular television comedies included ‘Mrs Brown’s Boys’ while today’s most popular comedian seems to be Michael McIntyre. I rest my case.

On the other hand there used

to be many very funny and very clever comedians and comedy sketches. From the respectable Two Ronnies and the saucy Benny Hill to Peter Cook and Dudley Moore, and from Monty Python to Spitting Image and the situation comedy of Fawlty Towers, they were very amusing. And we had unique stand­up comedians ranging from Bob Monkhouse to Les Dawson and from Spike Milligan to Jasper Carrott. And we should

not overlook the scriptwriters.

Today, comedians are treading on eggshells. It’s not only the more risqué that need to be careful, but the inoffensive as well. This is because there are so many sensitive groups who object to the mildest hint of criticism or discrimination. Is this why they are no longer so funny? Or is it me?

Recently, a sitcom from the 70s ‘Rising Damp’ may be edited to be rerun for modern audiences on the grounds of racial slurs. Likewise a proposed resuscitation of Fawlty Towers is to be scrutinised for gratuitous violence (against Manuel)!

If shown again unedited, it would be an interesting test of how far we have come ­ up or down ­ since the 70s.

For more from our columnists please scan this QR Code

We all need a helping hand

THE British Benevolent Fund was founded over a century ago with the aim of providing assistance to those British nationals in Spain who face severe financial issues.

We work with the UK consular network and many charity partners from www.supportin spain.info/ across the country in order to do this.

The issue of Brexit is a real one for many people who although have lived in Spain years did not for whatever reason complete the paperwork to be considered officially resident under the terms of the UK withdrawal from the EU.

For elderly and vulnerable people requiring medical treatment in Spain from the public health system this can be an acute issue.

For those unable to afford private health schemes the payment for medical treatment can be an enormous and, in some cases, insurmountable amount.

Last year we were approached by one of our partners to help a British lady who had been living off a small pen­

sion and found that post Brexit she was no longer eligible for Spanish health and state benefits as she had not registered as a resident by the deadline.

As she was facing several serious health issues which needed treatment this was an acute issue that needed resolving.

We were being asked to pay for her medical treatment which was a considerable sum as well as being an ongoing one and it was necessary that she had her paperwork in order or face the difficult decision of repatriation to the UK.

Thankfully we were able to provide some initial sums for her medication whilst her paperwork was being done .

Even so it was not a straightforward process ­ even to get an appointment let alone the considerable documentation

that was required now that the deadline had passed.

However, working with the partner charity we were able to provide a grant for her medical expenses and she was then fortunate to be able to access the Spanish public health system. Please visit our website www.britishbenevolentfund.or g or email olaf.clayton@british benevolentfund.org for further information.

David Worboys’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

The quality of comedy and humour is compromised by obsessive yielding to sensitivities. We need to laugh.

Photo Credits: bbc and Kremlin.ru

Olaf Clayton of BBF.

DEBBIE JAMES

WHAT an inspiration to women and young girls, pursuing her passion and making it her life’s work. It is so easy these days to go down the route of a normal job. There is one thing that doesn’t get enough attention to it, and it is the arts. If you have a passion, hobbies and think it could be something, do it. You don’t know where you could end up. You could be like Debbie and have a fantastic career and create a spectacular community. I hope I’ll be able to go to one of the workshops she was talking about some day. Thank you, Debbie, if you’re reading this, you have inspired me to pick up my paintbrushes after so long and I have just bought your book, I can’t wait to read it.

Victoria, Arboleas

Thinking of Estela

IT is such a tragic thing when you hear about people getting into accidents, Estela was going to be one of the greats and you can tell. It is so awful when this happens, it makes you think about everything and just how lucky you must be and feel to be able to get up in the morning. After reading the story I felt an overwhelming sense of I need to get up and enjoy my day because she would only love to be here to do that. Such a young woman too. I am only sending best wishes and strength to her family and the cycling community.

Emily, UK

Dear Leapy

YOU’D certainly get my vote. A brilliant Manifesto, especially about the ‘Asylum seekers’. Don’t reply because I’m not online, sending this by mail boxes email.

Regards

Marcia van der Wal, Altea

MY husband and I are absolutely with you and love your manifesto. Little worried about overseas aid as, if we don’t, then the Chinese or the Russians will. But otherwise fabulous. Go on, go for it. Love love love.

Jeff and Jane

Judi Dench

IT is sad to hear that Judi Dench is no longer able to read her scripts due to her failing eyesight, but I find that with her expertise, charm and quick wit that Judi might not have needed a script anyway. She is a strong and powerful woman and the fact that she has said that she isn’t thinking of giving up acting anytime is just what we need to hear. Imagine being 88 and as fit and as amazing as she is, going to the Oscars, filming movies, my favourites must be

the Bond films and her role in Philomena, well it was just so heartwarming and breaking. The fact that she can play so many characters and wear so many ‘hats’ is stupendous, she has worked in the film industry for a very long time and even on stage in shows!

Saddened, Benidorm

Bee stings

I THINK some people just don’t know what to be at these days. The fact that Gwyneth Paltrow has said that bees’ stings are natural Botox, I don’t know what to believe. Ladies, gents or anyone who thinks they need any of these enhancers or take awayers just remember that you are beautiful inside and out. I can understand that it can increase confidence and that you can feel better about yourself but your little quirks, the smile lines are what show that you have had a fantastic and happy life, that you have character and something special too. Do as you please, but think about what you do and where you get it done, I have seen too many of those botched programmes and I hope that nobody ever experiences that.

Alexandra, Fuengirola

Hip fractures

LINDA if I had known that I think I would have had some better luck and I would have drunk more tea! If anyone doesn’t know what I am talking about apparently more protein and tea, or coffee could reduce hip fractures in women. So, if you don’t drink tea, get drinking it now! The pain of a hip fracture is something you should take seriously, and I am telling you now, it is no joke. From here on out I’ll be making sure the girls and granddaughters are drinking more tea and coffee. I am so glad to hear about this and if you have any more tips, keep them coming! If we can avoid more things like that with something so simple, then I’ll be getting all the tea bags I can get.

Vanessa, Almeria

Leapy laws

I HAVE just read your manifesto ... I agree 100 per cent with the laws you would like to introduce to England. I feel sure if you could send this as a questionnaire to every adult in England, the majority would tick yes to each ruling.And to those who disagreed they could return to their original homeland. I wish you every succes.

Although we have lived in Spain for some 22 years and would never wish to return to England, we still keep up with how life is for family and friends back there.

Regards Wanda

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Plenty of Walking Football Action

EWN Over 50s League

Malaga 5 v 1 AC Benahavis

Malaga began strongly and were soon 1­0 up. In the second half, Benahavis missed a running offences penalty and struggled to cope with the Malaga midfield, the home side adding another four goals before Benahavis were able to pull one back near the end.

EWN Over 60s League

Malaga 2 v 4 AC Benahavis

The visitors raced into a 0 ­ 2 lead before Malaga could respond. The home side desperately tried to claw their way back into the game and managed to take the scoreline to 23 before half time. However, they were not able to break down a well ­ drilled Benahavis side, who added another goal to their total before the final whistle.

El Canadon Tournament

Last Saturday, Malaga WFC hosted a tournament involving two sides from AC Benahavis, two from Pollock in Glasgow, and Thader from Alicante, as well as two home teams. The six ­ hour event was a huge success, with all games being played in a friendly but competitive atmo

All games were tight affairs, as each match consisted of 14 minutes of play with no breaks. Steadily, Pollock United began to build a points lead over the rest. Although, at times, they were challenged closely by Thader and the two Malaga teams, they refused to surrender and ran out eventual winners by two points, with Malaga City and United second and third respectively, on equal points, City’s goal difference being superior.

Agriculture & rugby

tors, as they had travelled so far. However, it takes more than one team to make a tournament and great credit must go to all clubs who participated so enthusiastically in making this such a special event, and also to Mark Sargent and Chris Burt, the tournament organisers.

In the spirit of the game, there was much friendly banter and a great camaraderie amongst all, before, during and after play had fin

SOME might consider agriculture and rugby an odd combination but together they are stronger and have decided to collaborate for the 59th edition of the Farming Fair.

They are two events, two distinct spheres, two different missions but both rooted within the French regions, sharing common values (team spirit, drive, strength of the collective) which naturally led to this union.

Until March 5, at the Parc des Expositions Porte de Versailles in France, for the first time, the Hall 1 entrance will be dressed in the colours of the Rugby World Cup 2023.

From September 8 until October 28, 20 teams from every continent will face each other on French soil, creating unique moments of emotions, celebration and sharing.

Rugby World Cup 2023 will also be the occasion to shine a light on its regions, its craftsmanship, and the local products of French territories on display during the International Agricultural Fair.

This will come to life thanks to the involvement of the French Chefs of the XV de la Gastronomie, who will put local products at the heart of the competition and its Official Hospitalities.

POLLOCK UNITED: Were crowned the winners of the El Canadon tournament.

FARMING FAIR: Two different missions.

Image: World Rugby