Costa del Sol 2 – 8 March 2023 Issue 1965

BREAKING BARRIERS

MARBELLA’S Costa del Sol Hospital made waves on Saturday, February 25, as it joined in the global celebration of ‘International Day for Women and Girls in Science’. The day, which was first adopted by the United Nation in 2015, is designed to draw attention to the lack of female representation in scientific fields and promote increased gender equality.

The Costa del Sol Hospital has been working hard to encourage and support women in science including through its Gender Equality programme, which focuses

on promoting research carried out by women.

Data from the hospital from the past six years has shown there to be an equal distribution of female researchers in clinical studies and publications in highimpact scientific journals, testament to the hospital’s commitment to gender equality.

During the event, the hospital’s Research and Innovation Department launched a campaign featuring some of the hospital’s most talented and innovative women. These women shared their expe­

riences, projects, concerns, and advice for aspiring female scientists.

The hospital expressed its gratitude to all the women professionals who collaborated in the campaign and research, thanking them “for their work contributing to scientific advances.”

Costa del Sol hospital in Marbella has been celebrating women in science with a weeklong programme to highlight the work of female workers and researchers.

SOMETIMES there are sad stories at ARCH. But there are also happy ones.

One of these is the story of two mares. Camilla, 20 years old and starving, came to ARCH last year, having been abandoned under a bridge in Chiclana. After veterinary care and good feeding her condition improved immensely.

Her friend Candela, also in

A FAIRY TAIL ENDING

her 20s, originally came to ARCH in 2018 after she was confiscated by SEPRONA, starving and in dreadful condition, having been rented out for the annual pilgrimage of the Candelaria. She recovered well at ARCH and went on to be fostered at a local riding school

where she was a great favourite of the children. She came back to ARCH at the end of last year as she needed a quieter life in her old age.

Both elderly ladies were ready to leave the Rescue Centre, but finding homes for older animals who can only be ridden lightly is never easy.

Then a miracle happened. Two ladies from Fairy Tails, a local centre for equine therapy asked if ARCH had any suitable horses they could use for children with special needs. Horses are very sensitive animals and can build a bond with children who find it difficult to connect with other people.

So Camilla and Candela were adopted. They are perfect in their new lives and are much loved!

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 femalefocused 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 spotlight.

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.

“It’s so important to have a broad spectrum of people working in industry, business and politics. It widens and extends horizons and possibilities, increases creativity, diversity and quality.

Yes, it’s about inclusiveness and fair access for women and all those who experience barriers and discrimination, but the world is changing and being a woman in business is exciting and empowering. With so much in place to expose and challenge discrimination women must now encourage others to work towards realising their aspirations.”

Beautification Plan ongoing

FUENGIROLA Town Hall continues with its Beautification Plan in green areas of the town.

Work is now being carried out in La Veguilla park, where new planters are being created, in response to a neighbourhood request. In addition, work has already been carried out on various roundabouts, such as Los Caballos, El Sol and Marenostrum, as well as on the planters on Avenida de Las Salinas, Francisco Rivera Paquirri and Plaza Punta Umbría, among others.

The councillor for Ecology, Antonio Carrasco, confirmed: “The Fuengirola Town Hall, through the Urban Ecology department, has been developing an Action Plan for green areas in squares, roundabouts, planters, etc, so that the surroundings look their best at different times of the year.

“Now we are starting the Beautification Plan for all the green areas in our neighbourhoods. Once Christmas is over and after collecting all the Easter trees, it’s time to beautify our roundabouts, and we have already completed almost all of them, as well as the planters, many of which have already been reseeded and planted for the spring and summer,” he added.

Mia Thomas - Costa Angels

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

STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

‘‘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

ARE you the owner of a small dog or Pomeranian and want to meet other Pom Moms along the coast? Then look no further than to Pom Moms Marbella!

Having only started six weeks ago Pom Moms Marbella has taken off and is bringing the Costa del Sol community of small dogs to life. The original idea for the group came after founder Lily wanted to find Jimmy, her pom’s sister, after they had been separated from their litter.

Lily said “it was so great to see Jimmy so happy and remember his sister. The pom mom name came as a joke but the more I got thinking about it the more I thought about how

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

“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.

incredible it would be to share Jimmy’s meet up with his sister and after that, well I checked the name on Facebook and Instagram and it hadn’t been taken so I decided to go through with it and it just took off.”

In only six weeks, Pom Mom’s Marbella Instagram has grown over 873 followers and they have had their first charity event.

On Tuesday February 14, at Rosa’s café Marbella they had a Valentine’s walk with their poms and having cake, coffee and tea they were able to raise an amazing €667 for animal charity Protectora Palevals Ofical.

“There wasn’t really a community for people with small dogs before this started and I am so glad now that I have done it.” Pom Mom’s Marbella now have their own website and forum where they share all their advice, adventures and tips that people might have regarding poms and other small dogs. All dogs between five to seven kilos are welcome.

With weekly walks posted every Sunday and more adventures and events such as picnics, sunset walks and Pom Party, a dog party planning business, Lily is creating a great community for everyone with a small dog to take part in and raise money for animal charities in need. Bringing those with the small dogs closer together.

Pom Mom’s is not only a great way for the dogs to socialise but for the owners too! People from all over the costa having been coming to the walks, and from all different nationalities, it is the perfect way for you to broaden your horizons and learn Spanish too.

Lina Hodgkins, fellow Pom Mom, said, “it has been amazing, it has grown so quick, and it is such a great thing for socialising for everyone and the dogs!”

If you are looking to get involved and join in on the walks head over to Pom Mom’s Marbella Facebook and Instagram or www.pommomsmarbella. com/ to find out more.

“Confidence is key, yoga helped me with my confidence and now it is a completely different story. Yoga allowed for me to feel secure and meet new people from the community. Share the Facebook pages, be part of the community, keep going it can be tough, the crazy hours are worth it.”

Yoga with Seana

It Runs in the Family

ON Wednesday

February 22, The Salon Varietes Theatre had their opening night for the fantastically funny performance for It Runs in the Family by Ray Cooney, the king of farce.

For those unfamiliar to It Runs in the Family, it tells the story of Dr David and what happens when he is faced with a past lover, illegitimate son and all taking place before the most influential lecture of his career, what could possibly go wrong?

The Salon Varietes Theatre put on a spectacular show, the evening was filled with laughter, fun and cheers. Directed by David Vincent, with a fabulous cast they had the whole theatre in fits of laughter providing comedy in the best possible way.

Having recently celebrated their 38th birthday, the Salon Varietes Theatre is something to enjoy and experience, if you were unable to make it to It Runs in the Family this past week, you are not to worry! The Salon Varietes Theatre has various shows such as My Fair Lady in the upcoming weeks and you can buy your tickets now. If you would like to take part in the show the Salon Varietes Theatre are always supportive to new talent! To find out more information visit their website http://www.salonvarietes.com/ or Facebook to find out more.

A community for small dogs Reading Club

BOOK lovers can join in with like­minded reading fans as Estepona has announced it is launching a reading club at the municipal library with the aim of enabling its members to share their love of reading and exchange opinions about literature.

Library users who become members of the Reading Club will meet on the first Tuesday of each month at 6.00pm to discuss a particular book they have read at the same time at home, thereby encouraging a love of reading through the exchange of opinions by

means of interesting discussions.

For more information or to apply to join the Club, send an e­mail to bliblioteca@es tepona.es or go in person to the ‘María Zambrano’ Room of the Municipal Library, located in the Padre Manuel Cultural Centre.

In addition to the Town Hall Reading Club, the Municipal Library is also home to the Estepona Reading Club. This selfmanaged club has been running for seven years and meets on the last Thursday of the month at 5.30pm.

Pom Mom’s Marbella.

An evening filled with laughter.

Earthquake relief

Betty Henderson MARBELLA has embarked on a heartwarming solidarity campaign to support survivors in the aftermath of devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria which took place in February. City mayor, Ángeles Muñoz visited a purpose­built collection zone in the Palacio de Congresos on Saturday, February 25 to see generous donations given by Marbella residents.

Muñoz highlighted the importance of supporting those affected by natural disasters like the earthquake, highlighting that the humanitarian aid collection point in the Palacio de Congresos continues to accept donations.

The centre has been receiving donations including tents, blankets, heaters, and sleeping bags to help Syria and Turkey deal with the impact of the earthquakes and subsequent aftershocks.

Muñoz explained that the council is working in coordination with the Turkish con­

sulates in Malaga and Sevilla to support relief efforts. She

added that the city council is also in talks with local business owners to gather portable toilets and containers.

Another collection point has been open for the past year and remains open to collect much­needed humanitarian aid for those affected by the war in Ukraine.

Swimmer saved

A LOCAL POLICE officer and a sailor from the Virgen del Carmen marina saved a swimmer on the beach of La Venus, in the centre of Marbella.

The rescue took place in the afternoon when marina employee Francisco Campos received a warning that a man bathing on the central Marbella beach had been trapped by the waves and was having difficulty reaching the shore due to the adverse sea conditions. Once in the port area, Campos saw a Local Police officer who was trying to jump onto the jetty to gain access to a boat. Both boarded a boat, cut the lines and, despite the swell and the storm, reached the place where the man was. Fortunately, the man was rescued in the presence of the beachgoers who were on the beach at the time and of the security forces officers, who calmed the bather’s relatives. “The man was not far away, so we were able to get there quickly and rescue him between the two of us,” confirmed Francisco Campos.

Restored eyesight

IT is always nice to hear a heart ­ warming story and luckily for 62 ­ year ­ old Englishman, Mark, in Marbella, his story has a happy ending.

Mark who is homeless is lucky to have the support of the local Marbella residents who have given him a chance to recover his life and start a new stage.

Mark was suffering a worsening of his health caused by the appearance of serious cataracts in both eyes. The eye disease had progressed so quickly that in just a few months Mark had lost all his sight and was at risk of irreversible blindness.

MARBELLA City Counil announced a significant milestone during a meeting on Friday, February 24. The council’s actions have led to an increase in value for the city’s heritage sites of more than €50 million in the last four years, including a €9 million increase in value during the last year alone.

City hall spokesperson, Félix Romerol, stressed that the council’s financial management during the last four

The charity, Collective Calling, had been helping him for several months by providing him with food, but the onset of cataracts had caused severe blindness that prevented him from being able to live on the street.

The charity leaders made a call for help to the health centre and received an immediate response.

Both the management of the private Hospital, Quironsalud Marbella, and the Ophthalmology Service undertook to cover the costs of the operation which was successfully carried out earlier in February.

Value increase

financial years “has allowed the value of municipal heritage assets to rise by more than €50 million, from €604 million in 2018 to €658 million today,” a significant increase in value.

During the next financial year, the city council is set to acquire 13 more properties of interest for cultural heritage after they were

recently purchased from Banús Andalucía La Nueva, SA.

The council also highlighted that sites of cultural heritage ultimately belong to the residents in Marbella, but that they are tasked with maintaining the sites and providing value for money and educational experiences for visitors.

Mayor, Ángeles Muñoz visits a collection point.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Marbella

Trip to Cadiz

SENIOR citizens of Fuengirola have been invited on a bus trip. The town hall has organised a trip to the Cadiz towns of El Bosque and Benamahoma on March 14 until March 15.

The price is €130 per person in a double room or €160 per person in a single room and includes travel by bus, accommodation, meals, hiking routes and guided tours.

This was the activity that was originally scheduled for February 9 and 10, but due to inclement weather, it was postponed.

Anyone interested in joining the trip can make their registration at the Tercera Edad facilities in Calle Blanca Paloma or at the travel agency Delirium Travel, located in Calle San Pancracio.

The city of Cadiz was founded in 1100 BC by Phoenician sailors.

Charity colour run

THE coastal town of Torremolinos is gearing up for an exciting and colourful event that promises to be a funfilled day for the entire family. On Saturday March 18, the sixth edition of the ‘Colours for Peace’ five kilometre colour run is set to take place, and it promises to be bigger and better than ever before.

Organised by the local council in collaboration with Santa María del Mar parish and the Los Álamos residents’ association, the colour run aims to promote outdoor sports while also raising funds for a worthy cause.

Starting at 11am on the Carretera Pinar de los Manantiales, the run will cover a scenic five kilometre course.

In-demand destination

A RECENT report conducted by British hotel chain Premier Inn released on Monday, February 20, has named Costa del Sol city Malaga as the ‘most in demand destination in the world’ based on an investigation into consumer internet searches.

reasons for tourists’ interest in the destination were likely to be its “idyllic beaches, lively culture and appetising gastronomy.”

Malaga was followed in the rankings by the Italian floating city of Venice

whose ‘romantic reputation’ won the hearts of many couples travelling together. Third place in the report went to US west coast destination San Francisco with 237,000 searches per month.

But what sets this event apart is the colourful paint that will be thrown at participants along the route, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

Participants can register online: www.dorsalchip.es. Registration costs €10 for individuals and €9 for children up to 12 years old. This includes a race pack and a plate of rice to refuel afterwards.

The coastal city reached the prestigious position after outflanking globally renowned destinations including San Francisco and Venice by numbers of searches. The report found that more than 312,000 searches were made about the destination during the study period of a month.

The report assessed consumer research trends in more than 90 countries worldwide, investigating city destinations, but excluding their capital cities. The report focused on up­andcoming destinations that are slightly off the beaten track.

Announcing the results of their investigation, the hotel chain explained that the

Organisers launch ‘Colours for Peace’ run.

“Always do your research first, make sure what you have is a good idea and is something that will last, the market can be oversaturated and you need to be careful. Adapt to the markets, don’t go against them.”

Lina Hodgkins, Marketing Director Lineker’s Bar, Puerto Banus

Darkness into Light

GET ready to wake up early and join the community in Benalmadena for the most inspiring walk of the year. The Darkness into Light 2023 walk will bring people together on Saturday, May 6 to raise funds and awareness for suicide prevention and mental health support.

The Darkness into Light walk is not just any walk, as it begins at the crack of dawn, with participants starting at 5.30am, and walking until the sun rises. This year, the organisers are committed to making the walk the best one yet. The route is set to be an easy one along the beachfront, with stunning views guaranteed.

As well as raising awareness for better mental health care, this year’s event will raise money for local mental health partner, Afesol Salud Mental.

Organisers are currently seeking volunteers to help in organising and making sure the event goes smoothly. In­

Cruising on

FIGURES from Malaga’s tourism industry headed stateside for the first in­person promotional event since the Seatrade Cruise Med event last September. Officials arrived in Miami on Tuesday, February 22 to meet with American cruise operators.

The group from Malaga include officials from the city’s port, the Malaga Department for Tourism, representatives from the Costa del Sol’s Department for Tourism, and Andalucia’s Ministry for Tourism. The group remained in the USA until the conference with US cruise industry experts and operators ended on Thursday, February 24.

The conference is an important opportunity for cruise operators to develop networks with other professionals who they will be collaborating with in providing excellent experiences for American cruise passengers. The groups also discussed the challenges facing the industry including environmental challenges and restrictions.

The event is the first time that representatives from the city returned to the US since the pandemic.

terested volunteers can sign up by sending the group’s Facebook page a message: https://www.facebook.com/D arknessintoLightCostadelSol/?r ef=page_internal

By participating in

the walk, you’ll be showing your support for mental health care, and contributing to an international movement with global Darkness into Light organisations.

Building licence boom

MARBELLA Council this week approved building licences to the tune of nearly €16 million for projects in the city.

According to municipal spokesman Felix Romero, the town hall is currently approving licences totalling €540 m illiona year, which “guarantees the healthy state of the local economy.”

Among this week’s projects to get the green light are plans to build 45 new homes in Altos de los Monteros urbanisation and five luxury apartments with swimming pools in the Cortijo Blanco and Los Angeles urbanisation in San Pedro Alcantara.

In addition, up to 11 licences for smaller projects totalling €2.4 million such as house extensions and repairs also got the go­ahead.

Sr Romero added that the new general town plan currently being drawn up will guarantee that Marbella continues to be “the city with most square metres of green areas per inhabitant” in the whole of Andalucia.

Recycling record

NEW figures released by the Environmental Department in Mijas reveal that 2022 was a record year for recycling in the town with more than 43,000 tonnes of waste recycled.

The figures represent a 10 per cent increase on recycling figures from 2022 to approximately 1.34 kilograms per resident per day, up from 1.26 kilograms per resident per day. The report revealed that the town recycled a total of 43,862 tonnes of waste collected in containers on the streets and in community collections.

Figures revealed that the most net waste was recycled in August with a total of 4,485 tonnes, but the month with the biggest improvement in recycling was April, when the recycling rate was 17 per cent higher than the year before.

Local councillor for Waste Management, Laura Moreno, praised the excellent data saying, “This shows that as a town we are committed to recycling and the environment, we are increasingly aware of the environment and the need to reuse and recycle.” She added that the figures show that the council’s recycling initiatives are “bearing fruit.”

Participants pose against a beautiful sunrise in a past edition of Darkness into Light’s sunrise walks in Estepona.

“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

Photo credit:Darkness into Light Costa Del Sol (via Facebook)

ON Saturday February 25, the Costa del Sol community came together to celebrate ‘some enchanted evening’ for the amazing Val William’s 84th birthday at La Sierra Restaurant at Cerrado del Aguila golf resort.

Guests arrived in their best dressed, ready with gifts to donate to the raffle that were to be later auctioned off to celebrate the evening that was dedicated to helping raise funds in a small way for the chosen charity Age Concern, Fuengirola, Mijas and Benalmadena.

The evening was lit by candlelight, with fabulous mu sic from the wonderful Ricky Lavazza and daughter Emma where they sang terrific melodies and emotional tributes to Val in her mother tongue of Welsh. With special guests, daughter Ceri Lindsell and son Huw Williams, daughter in law Carys and granddaughter Shakira, the family came all the way from London and Sussex to attend the beautiful evening.

When talking to Ceri and Huw about Val they said “Mum is great we’re very proud of her, she has a huge amount of energy and what she does is brilliant, she helps bring the community togeth­

Some Enchanted Evening

talking to guests the admiration and respect that they have for her bringing everyone together is endless.

“I’ve been following Val on Facebook now for years and decided to come out, she’s a dynamo, an amazing lady, I’ve brought along my friends from Canada, we’re excited to see what the evening will bring,” said Jenny and Ian Green with friends Ed and Barb Wright.

ensure everyone is able to come and enjoy themselves at these evenings.

“It is important for people to know these events are on and to avoid the loneliness that can come with age. I have one event and one lunch every month so people can come out and enjoy themselves at a reasonable price and donate in a little way to these charities and make a small difference if we can.”

er and it is good for people who are on their own.

“She is a real inspiration to keep doing what she does, she has such an amazing zest for life, go getter attitude. It is so important to have meaning and creating something for the greater good, it keeps her happy, she is a great traveller and very brave with her strength and courage.”

Val’s wonderful work for the community does not go unnoticed. When

Lynn Fisher said, “I have been to most of her events, it was an amazing night last year and we’re excited for tonight and to support her, she is incredible, she has so much energy and there is always something on for us. She is such a fascinating character on the coast and without her it wouldn’t be what it is. A very happy birthday Val and to many more.”

When talking to the lady of the evening, Val said, “I normally have a do for charity and tonight we will be having a raffle and auction where we will be selling the bottles for charity. I have always tried my best for everyone and to keep it cost price or lower and

With an auction prize donated from the Euro Weekly News and guests the evening came to a close having raised a tremendous €473 for Age Concern

Fuengirola, Mijas and

VAL WILLIAMS: Her wonderful work for the community does not go unnoticed.

Visitors at Age Care

ON Thursday February

23, our Age Care Calahonda group was honoured and delighted to receive VIP visitors from Mijas Town Hall.

The mayor of Mijas, Josele González, the councillor for Social Services, Hipólito Zapico, and the councillor for Foreigners, Arancha López all spent an entertaining morning with our Age Care members.

The mayor and his councillors walked around, chatting and taking a great interest in the

activities on offer, including an Art Class, Spanish Class, various games of Dominoes, and of course every Tuesday a highly popular Chair Aerobics Class.

Following this very successfully filmed visit, it was broadcast later that day on Mijas television.

The Age Care Association has friendly groups meeting up to socialise in Benalmádena, Fuengirola, Calahonda, Coín and Alhaurin el Grande. In association with Age

Care, there is the Alzheimer and Dementia Support Group meeting twice monthly in Calahonda. The Age Care Association Charity Shop in El Zoco, Calahonda is staffed entirely by volunteers and opens Mondays to Fridays, 10am4pm.

For more information about Age Care, please call 635 407 255 , Mondays ­ Fridays between 9am and 7pm. Please look at the Facebook Page ‘Age Care Costa del Sol’.

Betty Henderson

THE historic Botanical Gardens of Malaga are renowned for their stunning collection of plants and trees from all over the world. But for the month of March, the gardens will also be home to an exciting art event featuring the work of four talented English artists.

From sculptures and drawings to ceramics, photography, acrylics, watercolours, and woodcuts, the exhibition promises to be a celebration of creativity and nature.

Judy Farrar’s sculptures and drawings are inspired by the shapes and forms found in nature, using a variety of materials to bring her creations to life.

Ceramicist Linda Gunn­Russell creates beautiful pieces in­

GOOD news for travellers as AVE has now confirmed the first cheap high­speed train tickets between Malaga and Madrid have now arrived.

This comes as part of a project carried out by the private company Iryo, which is launching a route with two daily departures starting at €34.

The inaugural journey will take place on March 31.

Behind this is the private company Iryo, which has already put these tickets on sale. Both cities are already connected by Renfe, but this new way of travelling is char­

spired by the natural world, such as vases adorned with intricate leaf and flower patterns.

Photographer Yanina Temple’s work captures the beauty of the world around us. Her photographs are a celebration of nature, from sweeping landscapes to close­up shots of flowers.

Exciting art event Bargain AVE

acterised by the price of its tickets.

The company offers three different fares for these journeys: Initial flexible (cheapest), singular flexible (average price), and infinite bistro flexible (most expensive).

The cheapest fare is €34.28 between Madrid and Malaga and €43.75 in the opposite direction.

The railway operator, Iryo, will start competing with Renfe and Ouigo (SNCF) in the

Ann Westley’s paintings are inspired by the natural world, and she often uses bold colours and striking imagery to convey her message.

The exhibition runs from Friday, March 3 until Thursday, March 30 and is open every day (except Mondays). Entry is free as part of admission to the gardens.

Spanish high­speed network, aiming to attract eight million passengers by 2025.

The Madrid­Andalucia link will not be deployed until the end of March 2023, followed by the Madrid­Alicante route, which will not be carried out until June next year.

Sun & beach

TORREMOLINOS Conference Centre hosted Expoplaya, the Beach and Hospitality Exhibition, on Friday, February 24, bringing together over 50 participating firms in the sun and beach sector. This event is organised by a collaboration of National and European beach tourism organisations and is considered the most important trade fair in the industry.

The aim of the conference was to ensure the quality of beach facilities and equipment, their sustainability, and job creation. Industry experts also discussed measures to combat the seasonal nature of the sun and beach sector. This year's event also highlighted beach gastronomy, thought to boost beach tourism.

VIP VISITORS: Age Care was delighted to receive the mayor and councillors.

Malaga’s Botanical Gardens are the perfect backdrop for the exhibition and are sure to provide inspiration to all viewers.

Photo credit: Jardín Botánico - Histórico La Concepción (via Facebook)

Construction firm relocates Mobile World Congress

FERROVIAL, one of Spain’s leading construction companies, is on the move. The company announced that it will relocate its headquarters from Spain to the Netherlands on Tuesday, February 28. The company will also be listed in the United States.

THIS year’s edition of the Mobile World Congress is currently underway in Barcelona.

Billed as the largest mobile telephone event in the world, an estimated 80,000 visitors from 200 different countries were expected to pass through the doors of Fira Barcelona from Monday until today, Thursday March 2.

This year’s slogan is ‘Velocity, unleashing tomorrow’s technology today’, with more than 2,000 stands by companies from all over the world announcing their latest devel­

opments in the fields of Big Data, artificial intelligence, connectivity and virtual reality, among others.

The 18th edition of the event is predicted to have an impact of €350 million in the city, with the creation of 7,400 temporary employment vacancies and more than 7,600 movements planned at Barcelona­El Prat airport.

Restaurant and hotel associations welcome the event as “an oasis in the middle of the low season,” providing local businesses with much­needed income outside of the summer

tourism period.

Despite the lofty predictions, numbers are still lower than previous editions before the Covid pandemic, which forced the cancellation of the fair for the first time ever in 2020. However, organisers are confident that they are on the right track, and this summer signed a contract extension with Barcelona Town Hall to continue hosting the event at least until 2030.

For further information on the Mobile World Congress, visit www.mwc barcelona.com.

The corporate reorganisation was prompted by a drop in profits and the need for a more “stable” legal framework, according to the company. The board of directors

proposed a merger with Ferrovial International, a Dutch European limited company that already owns 86 per cent of the company’s assets.

Despite the changes, Ferrovial has assured stakeholders that the move will not impact investment plans in Spain or other countries where it operates. Eighty­two per cent of the company’s 2022 revenue came from outside of Spain, so the company is looking abroad for its

future opportunity.

The decision to relocate to the Netherlands was based on the country’s ‘stable’ legal framework and ‘AAA’ credit rating, making it an attractive option.

Despite the move, Ferrovial’s investment plans in Spain remain intact. The company sees the country as its main source of talent development and a key market, even as it seeks new opportunities abroad.

More than €5.5m assets

A JOINT investigation supported by Europol has led to the arrest of 20 suspected money launderers and drug traffickers. The operation was led by the Spanish Guardia Civil, with support from the Italian Central Directorate for Anti­Drugs Services (Direzione Centrale Servizi Antidroga), and resulted in the seizure of more than €5.5 million in criminal assets and over two tons of drugs.

Based in the south of Spain, the criminal network was composed of Albanian, Italian, Spanish and Moroccan nationals, and was led by Italian nationals who evaded capture using forged identity documents.

The criminals resided in towns between Sevilla and Malaga, and attempted to avoid detection by taking various security measures and frequently changing their addresses.

The criminal network used a variety of money laundering methods to obfuscate their drug trafficking proceeds. Investigations were kicked off in October 2021, when a hashish shipment was found hidden in a lorry transporting pallets of onions. Law enforcement arrested the two drivers and seized 468 kilograms of hashish. This was followed by a seizure of 194 kgms of hashish and 30 kilograms of marihuana in May 2022.

Image by Catwalker/Shutterstock

Fira Barcelona.

CELEBRATE the works of Alicia Ramos Munos at the Centro Cultural La Cala (Mijas Costa) BLVD de la Cala S/N.

Alicia has more than 40 years of experience. Her works are something to be

Art exhibition

seen, available throughout the week from 5pm ­ 7pm, experience her abstract style and take in her life’s work.

Alicia has worked for years with oil, water colours and acrylics, consisting of abstracts, animals, landscapes, still lifes, sea scapes and more. Her canvas changes and varies from size and texture, translating her skills through small, medium and large formats on canvas, wood, card board and more.

Alicia’s love for bright colours stems back to when

she was a child and represents the brightness and joy in her life. Alicia has also participated in various collective exhibitions in Malaga and sold her works throughout various countries such as Italy, Austria, Belgium, Germany and Poland.

International Women’s Day Torremolinos

ON Wednesday March

8, the town of Torremolinos will be celebrating International Women’s Day with a march starting from the town hall to the Pablo Picasso Cultural Centre ­ C de la Cruz, 42, 29620 Torremolinos.

Shopping and bubbles

TO celebrate all the fabulous women on International Women’s Day, Fabric Boutiques Spain will be offering you a cheeky glass of cava or two in all their stores and with special discounts in­store on the day, while providing you the best fashions you can get.

Save the date, Wednesday March 8!

You can find Fabric Boutiques Stores in La Cala de Mijas, Calahonda, San Pedro and Gibraltar. To find out more information visit www.fabricboutique.es.

There will be presentations and music by a Women’s Chamber Choir, to take place at 12.30pm. Join in with the community and celebrate this momentous day. To find out more information go to Torremolinos Town Hall.

Free Hip Hop and Break Dancing Workshop!

THE Youth Department in Fuengirola Town Hall is launching a free Hip Hop and Break Dance workshop for young people aged 12 to 16 years old and it will be held on Fridays March 10, 17, 24 and 31. If you are looking to learn or know someone of the age required looking to start something new, tell them to come along, no previous experience is necessary! For all of those looking to take part, the registration period is now open in the Colores de Los Boliches building.

Alicia has a love of bright colours.

Images: Alicia Ramos Munos

Ladies Fashion Show

RAISE money in style at La Scala Marbella with Mapuchi Fashion. Taking place on March 8 it is not too late to get your tickets for the ladies luncheon and fashion show.

Guaranteed a fabulous time with the fantastic stylings of Sara Haley you will see the current trends

WITH events taking place Friday March 3 to Sunday

March 5, Torremolinos’ Carnival will be something that you won’t want to miss! The opening ceremony will take place at 9pm in Plaza de la

and fashions and where else better to get inspiration for this upcoming spring season than with Mapuchi Fashion.

The fashion show is set to begin at 1pm and the money raised will be going to Alzheimer’s Dementia Support Group and Age Care, with live music from

Johnny G, this will be something that you won’t want to miss.

To find out more information visit the Mapuchi Instagram and Facebook page, visit the store in La Cala de Mijas or book your reservations online at www.lascalamarbella..co m or call 951 569 362.

Torremolinos Carnaval

Nogalera and will be followed with performances by Murga and Compsara, musical theatre groups.

To follow throughout the rest of the weekend on Saturday with a children’s fancy dress competition at Parque de la Batería, where there will be children’s animations, bouncy castles, face painting, workshops and a children’s theatre, ‘The Great Dragon’. Carnaval Parade from Torremolinos Centre starts at 8pm, with the adult Fancy Dress Competition & Carnaval Dance to start at 9pm.

To find out more information on the events visit Torremolinos Town Hall.

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

Anette Qviberg

ANETTE QVIBERG has conquered life in the most amazing ways and is an inspiration to women who want to go out and conquer the world one step at a time. From being a stylist, fashion icon, interior designer, respected businesswoman, single mother and more! Women have been an essential part to Anette’s life, and the strong ethos of her hard work and career, her fascinating life story is something to be shared and is inspirational to those who might be going through something similar.

Having been born, raised and educated in Sweden, Anette knew that there was more to the world than what her hometown had to offer and at the age of 18 moved to New York. Anette was able to fulfil her love for fashion and not be stuck to the normal societal ways of Stockholm and experience more of life and what it has to offer by stepping out of the box and become the free thinker and doer

that she is today.

Previously married to Dolph Lundgren, Anette comes from a long line of inspiration and fashion, her mother was the designer to the Queen of Sweden, had her own fashion lines and even made clothing for Anette when she was younger.

When talking to the Euro Weekly News and asked what women she looked up to for inspiration, Anette spoke fondly of her grandmother, “She came to Sweden from Norway to escape the war, they had textile factories back in Norway but had to leave. She was extravagant in the best way; she didn’t fit in a box or category. I can remember

her in her Yves Saint Laurent suit and high heels. She was a magnet, she did so much for people and for those in the LQBTQ community, then they looked to her as an icon, she was such a character she introduced me to Cabaret on her 60th birthday!”

After 15 years of back­andforth from the US to Sweden Anette received her Green Card from the lottery and was able to officially settle down.

Having set her new roots in Los Angeles after New York, to start her own business designing jewellery and continue styling, she has since come to Marbella and gone into the world of interior design with Ida Ayu Design.

When asked what advice she would give a woman in business today, Anette said, “Don’t stop, don’t stop with your creativity if you have something that you know can work, it is worth it, luck does play into it too. Be proud of yourself and have your own style, be your own individual self. Your friends should be copying you, not the other way around. Be your own individual self and be proud of what you have done so far.”

Today Anette is an interior designer who styles and dresses homes, apartments, restaurants and more, allowing your vision to become a reality. Anette has her own team and is dedicated to her work, you will be blown away with what she has and can accomplish, “Each project has its own style, whether it be a private home or a restaurant, you must take everything into consideration. It is psychological, you have to know the client’s wants and desires, I know how to make it work and have everything come together.”

When talking about her history in business and the male dominated industries of fashion and how to get your voice to be heard Anette said, “Work a lot and show up. If you have to be the underdog, be it, be smart, let those around you feel comfortable and do the important things asked of you. It is hard but it is worth it when your voice is finally heard. My daughter is an actress and a model, and she wants her independence. There might be misconceptions because of who I am, and her father is, but she is just like everyone else and will have to work harder to get over the miscon­

ceptions. You need to work from the bottom up or you will never be confident and that is key to getting anywhere. You need to be hungry and take advantage of what you have in front of you, it’ll help you in so many ways.”

Along with her successful career, Anette is also a single mother to Ida and Greta Lundgren. When talking about the work life family balance Anette said “It made more sense for me to go into interior design, I had time for the projects, and I wanted to spend time with my girls. We’re all very close but it was hard to be mum and dad. It is tough, your kids are going to do what you do, they look to their parents as an example, I wanted them to know I was working for a reason and by working while they were growing up it has made them tough. I have always showed them love, but I have also shown them respect and that there is no shame in asking for help, whether it be if I need a tea or they do, we look out for each other and have an open relationship and work together.

“If you are looking to have a better connection with your children, be open and honest with them and let them be open and honest with you and with no judgement. Don’t restrict them and care about their needs.”

Anette has lived in Marbella now for over 20 years, but it has always been a home from home, having visited the area from when she was little throughout the holidays with

her family, Marbella has always been a part of Anette’s heart.

“When the girls were starting to grow up, I knew I couldn’t do it in New York or LA, I wanted them to grow up around nature. Here is the best place for me, there is a sense of community, so many different nationalities, you create your own community here, it is amazing.”

When asked about the best advice she has ever received, Anette went back to her family and her stepfather and grandmother. They said, “Try to live in the moment and try and make the situation as best you can. The sentence it’s never going to work should never cross your lips. Everyone has a chance, everyone fails and don’t be afraid of failure, it makes you stronger. Don’t be scared to be different, do what you can, be true to your word and yourself, there is no harmony in lying.”

When asked what advice she would give women today, she said, “Always focus on positive reinforcement, be an honest person, look at what is in front of you and value it. Be empathetic, value the small things in your community, give rather than show off. Look to those around you who need help and once they are happy, then look further afield. Put down your phone, be proud of yourself and know you have the drive and determination to succeed, it doesn’t matter who has more money, everyone has their dignity and show respect to everyone.”

you would like to see more of what Anette is up to and her exciting upcoming project with Minotti, who she will be working with closely on the Costa del Sol, to create a cosy, warm and beautiful environment with her own personal touches. Visit her Instagram @interiorbyanetteqviberg, @anetteqviberg or email anetteqviberg@gmail.com

Anette is an inspiration to all women.

Ida and Greta Lundgren.

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.

Blue flag

MORE than 100 hiking trails in Spain received the prestigious Blue Trail Flag award at a national environmental conference held in Santiago on Friday, February 24.

The honour was presented to trails judged by the Association for Environmental Education (Adeac) to offer outstanding heritage and natural beauty credentials.

In this year’s event 104 awards were handed out to trails in 20 different provinces and 10 autonomous communities throughout the countries. The selected trails cover a distance of more than 600 kilometres of countryside, giving walkers plenty of inspiration for new routes this year.

The northern region of Galicia received the most awards in total, home to 35 of the 104 selected trails.

No direct combat

Betty Henderson

SPAIN will never send troops to fight in Ukraine according to the latest announcement from the Minister for Defence, Margarita Robles made on Sunday, February 26. The Minister for Defence gave an interview where she highlighted that no troops from NATO countries would be involved with direct combat in Ukraine, including Spain. She added that Spain’s direct participation in the conflict is “An absolutely impossible scenario,” saying that the Spanish military would only be involved to defend a fellow NATO country.

Robles also spoke about Spain’s decision to send Leopold tanks to the country saying “they have one sole purpose; defence against, not aggression towards Russia.”

The Minister for Defence described the war as a war being waged against the Ukrainian civilian population rather than

THE average age of the population is rising across Europe and a new report published on Friday, February 24 has revealed that Spain and Portugal have the most rapidly rising average age. The data collected by Eurostat revealed that the average age in Spain rose 4.3 years in the last decade, surpassed only by Portugal where the average age rose 4.7 years. Meanwhile, the average age rose across EU countries by just 2.5 years, rising from 41.9 years to 44.4 years.

The statistics also showed a fascinating trend,

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 dur­

a conflict between armies.

Robles added her thoughts that Putin is well aware he is losing the conflict but said he remains “a threat to humanity.”

When asked about the possibility of nuclear war however, Robles said that this is unlikely to happen.

Healthy lifestyle

that the average age in southern European countries like Italy and Greece, has risen much more rapidly than in the north of the continent, possibly thanks to a slower pace of life and the Mediterranean lifestyle. Spain came eighth in the standings for oldest average age at 45.1 years. Researchers say an ageing population is the result of technological advances and improvements in healthcare.

‘‘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’.”

Miss Evie, International School of Estepona

Spain’s climate change

Linda Hall

MADRID­based think­tank Instituto Elcano warned in its latest report that Spain is one of the EU countries most at risk from climate crisis.

Approximately 20 per cent of mainland Spain is already at risk of desertification due to climate change and overexploitation of water, particularly groundwater extraction.

Spain emits around 0.8 per cent of the world’s greenhouse gases and accounts for 9 per cent of the EU’s, making it the sixth­largest emitter.

Per capita carbon dioxide emissions peaked at 8.47 tons in 2005 but dropped to 4.92 tons by 2021, as climate change measures kicked in and the country has become more environmentally conscious.

Spain now has a Climate Change Law passed in 2021 which commits the country to cutting emissions by at least 23 per cent by 2030 when compared with 1990 levels.

This law requires companies, banks and other companies to present annual reports on exposure to climate risks and the measures they are introducing to contain them.

The Ministry for the Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge (MITECO) must also report every five years on risks, policies and measures.

Insurance slip-up

ing 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 contest­

ed 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 dur­

ing 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.

Spanish Minister for Defence, Margarita Robles stands by Spain’s decision to send Leopold tanks to Ukraine.

Photo credit: Ministerio de la Presidencia. Gobierno de España (Pool

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

Warzone concert

A SLOVENIAN band is warming up to give a performance in Kyiv in what they say will be the first concert by a foreign performer since the war began a year ago. Laybach have announced a concert date in Kyiv’s Bel Etage music hall on Friday, March 31.

The group announced their decision to perform a concert in the warzone on Wednesday, February 22, saying it would be entitled ‘Eurovision’. The concert’s name is a reference to the fact the country won the European song contest last year, meaning they should have hosted it this year.

Although they might be the first foreign band to perform a concert since the war broke out, U2 musicians Bono and the Edge from U2 played a set in Kyiv last year.

Nokia rebrand logo

FOR the first time in 60 years, the Finnish company Nokia is to rebrand its logo.

The Finnish company Nokia will change its logo for the first time in 60 years. This is due to a change in the company’s business strategy and the desire to get rid of the association with smartphones, company director Pekka Lundmark explained to a news source on Sunday, February 26.

“There was an association with smartphones, and now we are a business technology company,” Lundmark told the news outlet. The new logo

will feature futuristically stylised letters forming the word Nokia against a rich pink­purple spectrum.

Currently, the company’s management believes that they have successfully completed the reboot of business processes. As a result, Nokia intends to accelerate them

A NEW report released by the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) on Tuesday, February 21 forecast a sharp recovery of the business travel sector following the pandemic.

The European business travel sector was one of the worst hit areas of the whole travel industry during the pandemic, due to the transition to online work and the axing of business trips for the whole of 2020 and much of 2021.

But now, the GBTA says that western European countries are in the best position to recover pre­pandemic business travel spending as the sector begins to bounce back. In its report the

and scale its activities in order to achieve global leadership.

Nokia announced that it also plans to completely stop importing equipment to Russia in 2023. Earlier it was reported that Nokia has introduced a smartphone with the possibility of self­repair, as reported by gazeta.ru

Business travel boost

GBTA explained that Europe was now “making up lost ground” with spending on track to rise 25.3 per cent during 2023.

The excellent data follows a strong recovery which began in 2022 with business travel spending increasing by an estimated 61.7 per cent thanks to the removal of border restrictions.

“We are so lucky to be able to access 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

Contractors under scrutiny

WITH more than 43,000 now dead following the Turkey earthquakes, engineers examining the devastation have been horrified by building standards.

Since the earthquakes hit on February 6, the Turkish authorities have begun investigating hundreds of building contractors and owners amongst others suspected of criminal negligence.

Now the focus of public outrage, there is a widespread belief that they increased their profits by ignoring regulations introduced over the last two decades to make buildings more resistant to earthquakes.

“Putting the blame only on the contractors would be the easy way out,” Ali Ozgunduz told the international media. A former state prosecutor, he investigated collapsed buildings after another disastrous earthquake in Turkey in 1999.

A former president of Turkey’s Chamber of Civil Engineers, Cemal Gokce went further by accusing the government headed by Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the ruling Justice and Development Party of over­lenient regulations that have left cities more vulnerable to earthquake damage.

“The government is trying to avoid responsibility by dumping it onto engineers and architects,” he said. “But they are the principal lawbreakers by putting profits over the public interest.”

Fisheries and aquaculture

THE European Commission has now presented a package of measures to improve the sustainability and resilience of the EU’s fisheries and aquaculture sector.

The sector’s current dependency on fossil fuels is not only environmentally unsustainable but also makes it vulnerable to energy price increases.

When fuel prices increased in 2021 and 2022, many vessels stayed in port and the sector required financial support as a large part of the EU fishing fleet was unable to cover operational costs.

Aquaculture was similarly exposed to higher prices of both fuel and feed. The sector benefited from EU financial support.

The Commission now proposes to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and aim towards climate­neutral fisheries and aquaculture sector, in line with one of the ambitions of the European Green Deal to reach climate

neutrality in the EU by 2050.

It is proposing measures to support the sector in accelerating its energy transition, by improving fuel efficiency and switching to

renewable, low ­ carbon power sources.

One of the key actions is an Energy Transition Partnership for EU Fisheries and Aquaculture.

Danger of drought

METEOROLOGISTS in France issued a warning about drought on Wednesday, February 22, after the country recorded its driest winter in more than 60 years.

France is currently facing one of its driest spells of winter weather with 32 consecutive days without rain, in what has been one of the country’s driest winters on record, since 1959.

The dry winter follows the hottest summer on record which was registered last year by the national weather agency, Météo ­ France.

Meteorologists and ecological experts called a meeting in response to the news to discuss policy region by region in an attempt to avert drought later in the year when the country sees the effect of the reduced rainfall on the water supply.

Hot temperatures were suffered by several countries in Europe last summer including Spain and Italy, where drought conditions were also reported. Countries have grappled with resolving their drought issues over the winter which in many cases, has been drier than expected.

NEW LOGO: Will feature futuristically styled letters.

PRESS EUROPEAN

DENMARK

Old-timer

INVESTIGATORS examining dead hedgehogs brought in by members of the Danish Hedgehog Project discovered that Thorvald, who died in a Silkeborg rehab centre, was later found to be 16, making him Europe’s oldest ever. The record was previously held by an Irish hedgehog aged nine.

THE NETHERLANDS

War wounds

THE NETHERLANDS’ 32-million page war archive will become available without restrictions in 2025, announced the War in Court (Oorlog voor de Rechter) group. The descendants of Second World War collaborators now fear the reopening of old wounds as data protection laws do not cover the dead.

BELGIUM

Hacker deal

BELGIUM’S Cyber Security Centre (CCB) has promised protection from prosecution for hackers or organisations reporting security vulnerabilities affecting systems, networks, or applications located in Belgium. Protection would depend on meeting “strict” conditions, the CCB said.

GERMANY

Wrong turning

A WOMAN of 82 inadvertently drove into a Munich shopping centre, breaking through its side entrance and crashing into an escalator. The driver escaped with minor injuries, but was taken to hospital as a precaution while an 18-year-old on the damaged escalator was able to jump to safety.

FRANCE

Lynx warning

FRANCE’S lynx population, reintroduced in the 1970s, is at risk of disappearing and requires special measures to increase numbers, experts said. A recent study found that around 150 adult lynxes currently inhabited the mountains of north-eastern France, separated from healthier groups in Germany and Switzerland.

NORWAY

All alone

EXPERTS completed the reconstruction based on the skull of a teenage boy who lived 8,300 years ago in modern Norway. Nicknamed Vistegutten, ‘the boy from Viste’ his skull was deformed and he apparently died alone, as his remains were found as though resting against the wall of a cave.

FINLAND

Fell swoop

FOREST MOVEMENT activists disrupted treefelling operations for the fourth time in Aalistunturi in Finland, an area which is likely to become a national park. Loggers, who must stop work whenever anyone enters the area near their machinery, said the protests were costing them €15,000 a day.

IRELAND

Gold reserve

IRELAND has cancelled ‘golden visas’ for nonEU nationals worth at least €2 million who invest in the country. Ireland's Minister for Justice, Simon Harris, said that the scheme, established in 2012 in return for creating jobs had had been under review for “quite a period of time.”

ITALY

Electric shock

ITALY intensified its opposition to EU plans to ban the sale of all petrol and diesel cars after 2035 to achieve 100 per cent zero-emissions for new vehicles. Transport minister Matteo Salvini condemned a rapid switch to electric mobility as “suicide” and a “gift” to Chinese industry.

PORTUGAL

New airlink

ETIHAD AIRWAYS are expanding their European network this summer with a new direct route between Abu Dhabi and the Portuguese capital Lisbon, starting in July. The new service, the Middle Eastern airline’s first route into Portugal, will operate weekly flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Sundays.

UKRAINE

Look ahead

BUSINESSES worldwide are jockeying for position for multibillion reconstruction contracts in Ukraine once the war ends. Tymofiy Mylovanov, former Economy minister and now president of the Kyiv School of Economics, said with funding from all over the world “businesses want to be part of rebuilding.”

SWEDEN

Shut out

A CYBERATTACK temporarily prevented access to the website of Sweden’s national broadcaster SVT on February 14. The attack was not unexpected as the hacker group Anonymous Sudan called for cyberattacks against Swedish authorities and banks following the Koran burning in Stockholm.

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

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

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.

LeapyLee’sopinionsarehisownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

I JUST WANT TO SPEAK TO A HUMAN!

NORAJOHNSON BREAKINGVIEWS

THERE are so many things wrong in the UK currently that it is practically impossible to get numbers down to even a top 10. Whenever back in the country, 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 customer ­ focused. 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 back­office operation. Customer service will be an irrelevance,

and if they spend any money at all it will be on daft advertising campaigns.

And speaking to a human is almost as difficult as getting to see a GP in the UK.

At the age of 101, my mother had to see her doctor for a check­up. At the end of the consultation he decided to check for Alzheimer’s, asking her if she knew the date. She promptly responded with the correct day, date, month and year which elicited the response ‘brilliant’. “No it isnt,” she replied. “You have a large calendar on the wall behind you.” There were no further questions.

A friend’s mother, at 86, gave a similar response. She was then asked who was the Prime Minister, and was gleefully able to respond correctly: “I’ve just been watching news about him on TV!”

Yet another mother, when asked for her birthday: “22nd March.” Doctor: “What year?” Mother: “Every bloody year!”

And talking of nannying, Bill Giles, retired MET forecaster, accused his successors of behaving like nannies for issuing so many storm alerts, saying that the public would soon become immune to them.

Let’s take a quick look at the evidence:

October 15, 1987

Michael Fish denied that a hurricane was on its way just before it arrived in the worst storm for three centuries killing 18 people.

May 25, 2009

The Met Office warned of “a threat of showers and thunderstorms” on Bank Holiday Monday. It turned out to be the hottest day of the year up to then. Resorts lost millions in revenue because visitors were put off by the forecast.

April 30, 2009

The Met Office predicted a ‘barbecue’summer with temperatures exceeding 30C. It rained on 42 summer days and was the wettest July on record.

November 2014

The Met Office reassured councils and the Environment Agency they should expect a ‘drier than usual’ winter. It would be the wettest winter since records began in 1914 and some of the most severe flooding Britain had seen in decades.

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.

Moving & retiring to Spain?

CONSULAR MATTERS

SPAIN is a country with one of the most attractive lifestyles and climates. The healthcare system, quality of life and culture makes living in Spain one of the best places to live at any time in your life. Spain as a member of the EU offers safety and security to its citizens.

Spain also could be the perfect location for setting up your own business. Spain offers you a huge range of opportunities from being a café owner or tradesperson serving other expats and holidaymakers or starting a new online venture.

It can be a wonderful experience to head to Spain for a healthier way of life or any other of the great reasons for making Spain the best place for you to live and work. Whether you are moving here for a career opportunity, working from home, planning for your retirement or you are simply looking for a change, Spain is a great choice.

Following Brexit the UK is now consid­

ered as a third country so you need a visa to live and/or work here.

At last we now have the Digital Nomad Visa that allows you to work remotely from Spain which makes it much easier to get a residence permit if you comply with the legal requirements.

Of course, we still have the work permit (as an employee and as self­employed), the non­lucrative visa, the Golden Visa and the student visa amongst others.

Your options depend on your personal and financial situation, so always take advice from a lawyer here in Spain, lawyers are qualified, regulated professionals. Always ask for their bar registration number.

On the coast you will find advisers, consultants and experts ,but you should put your legal matters in hands of professionals with the right expertise to help you. Your peace of mind and your future life deserve it. Of course you can make a visa application without a lawyer.

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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.

WHEN YOUR BEST ISN’T GOOD ENOUGH

BILL ANDERSON A PUBLIC SERVANT

THERE are a lot of nervous politicians around Spain at the moment. With Local Elections taking place throughout the country on May28, many will no doubt lose their comfy and well paid positions and may need to return to the regular world of work.

On February 22, I travelled up to Mijas Pueblo for the monthly council meeting (called the Pleno). There was a lot of activity on entering the village with white lines and zebra crossings being painted whether they needed it or not. Actually they didn’t need it. Compared to some of the neglected areas in the urbanisations, the untouched white lines of Mijas Pueblo were gleaming in the morning sunshine and were certainly in acceptably good nick.

I tried for months to get a zebra crossing repainted and was informed by the police that it was perfectly OK. A local worker had been killed on crossing the road at night and the dark grey zebra crossing was barely visible during the day let alone at

night on a poorly lit road with street lighting that had been out for months.

Clearly, local politicians think we are stupid enough to believe that getting busy three months before an election creates amnesia about all the things not done in the previous four years: the requests ignored, the pleas not listened to. I don’t think that my municipality is any worse than what I presume is repeated across councils all over Spain at the moment: fix­

Division bells

SALLY UNDERWOOD POLITICAL ANIMAL

IT seems appropriate that in Parliament the alarm that goes off when a vote is called in the House of Commons is named the ‘division bell’.

From slanging matches at Prime Ministers Questions to battles on Question Time, we know that politicians are normally divided on… well pretty much everything.

What we’re not so used to though is the public being quite so politically at odds with itself.

From old to young, rich to poor, Brexiteers to remainers, and pro to anti vaxxers (and don’t even get us started on the immigration issue), I can genuinely say I’ve never seen us this… divided.

Apart from being simply wearing though, history tells us that internal fighting is an ultimately fruitless task.

Surely then the answer is something we can all get behind. A new national holiday (I suggest something both heartwarming

and totally uncontroversial; ‘Hug a grandma day’ or similar), or a particularly good Richard Curtis film.

In seriousness though, while we are all so busy pointing fingers at each other we’re less likely to be focusing on what we could all be doing to fix, well almost everything.

Perhaps that’s because it’s far easier to tear down than it is to build, and at least criticism makes us feel like we’re doing something in an increasingly chaotic world.

While we’re busy fighting each other too though, we’re also less aware of the bigger issues.

And when we’re refusing to listen to each other properly we’re less likely to share the ideas and discoveries that transform our worlds.

After all, if Alexander Fleming had left pencillin in the petri dish exactly where he’d found it ­ only occasionally syphoning some off for personal use ­ where would we be now?

If the result of embracing each other’s view points and ideas then has the potential to genuinely make the world a better place, roll on the next Richard Curtis rom com.

Sallysopinionsareherownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

ing things that aren’t broken and leaving unfixed the things that are not so publicly visible; visiting associations which they have ignored for four years to show how approachable and interested they are in the work they do.

I have been asked multiple times how my election campaign is coming along! Frankly, I find it hard to get into. Sure, I participate at a party level in the pre election activities. I have to listen to the politi­

cal dogfights at council meetings which often resembles the playground more than the boardroom. I am aware of and will be caught up in the general flurry of activity which will no doubt intensify over the coming months, but when politicians have to tell people how well they have done and reinforce this with endless amounts of activity pre elections. I suggest it is because they are aware of their failings over the previous years, and while they would claim to have done their best, it obviously hasn’t been good enough.

As the first foreigner to become a councillor in Mijas in the 43 years of local government, I decided that my main task would be to get to know people, make myself accessible and to act as a bridge between local residents and the governing councillors. I have tried to do this in new ways, via Live Streaming and local surgeries, for example, but my plan hasn’t essentially changed during the legislature. I have nothing new to say to people. I would like to think I have done my best but that will not be reinforced or confirmed by a whirlwind of superhuman activity just before the elections.

I have done my best, but it will be up to the electorate to decide if my best has been good enough.

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.

ELECTIONS: It will be up to the electorate to decide if my best has been good enough.

Olaf Clayton of BBF.

Prohibition Era

LINDA HALL

YOU’D need to be well advanced in years to remember the ‘You’ve come a long way, baby’ advertisements.

They appeared in American magazines which, when I first lived here, were a welcome change from Woman and Woman’s Own and light years away from Teresa ­ published by the Movimiento, the only permitted political movement at that time ­ or pious Telva. The US adverts featured Virginia Slims, marketed exclusively for women, although in Spain women hadn’t even begun, let alone come a long way.

Females, ‘nice’ females, didn’t smoke although I did. They most certainly did not smoke in the street which, again, I did, although decades later I look askance at women smoking in the street. To be fair I also look askance at men who smoke in the street too, as no ­ one is more intolerant than somebody who has kicked a 60­a­day Ducados habit.

In the late 60s there were so many things that a young woman didn’t do.

DEBBIE JAMES

For instance, when lunching or dining out you didn’t directly address the waiter, but told your (male) companion what you wanted, who relayed your choice. And you never, never paid.

It was frowned upon for a young mother to carry a baby on her hip: “That’s what gypsies do,” my appalled mother ­ in ­ law told me, although I continued doing so for convenience’s sake in the days before baby slings.

You didn’t raise your voice in public and the last thing you could do was to cry.

“Why?” I wanted to know.

“If you ever see a woman crying in public, it’s because her husband beats her,” my own husband explained. “It looks bad,” he added vaguely.

It wasn’t hard to see the logic, although neither was it hard to perceive that it was the beater, not the beaten who looked bad, laying the blame unfairly but traditionally on the woman.

Spain has come a long way since then and is much further on than that. I hope.

The open door

CASSANDRA NASH

SPAIN’S government has 23 ministers and 14 of them are women, successors to Federica Montseny, Spain’s first female minister and one of the first in Europe.

Montseny was born in Madrid in 1905 although her parents, both teachers and both anarchists, were Catalan by birth. She was initially home ­ schooled but studied Philosophy and Literature at Barcelona University where she joined the National Confederation of Labour (CNT) and wrote for anarchist publications.

The Republican Prime Minister, Francisco Largo Caballero offered Montseny the Ministry of Health and Social Assistance in November 1936, four months after Franco’s uprising had precipitated the Civil War.

She remained there until May 1937 when she resigned in protest at the government’s treatment of anarchists in Barcelona. During that time she introduced a short ­ lived Abortion Law and opened centres where prostitutes found accommodation and training to help them seek alternative employment.

Montseny and her family fled to France in February 1939 when the Civil War was all but lost. She died in Toulouse in January 1994 and one of her daughters, Vida, later said ­ not without bitterness ­ that Federica had turned her back on the role of wife and mother to devote herself to politics and the rights of women.

Forty­five years were to pass before Spain had another female minister, when Soledad Becerril was Minister of Culture in Leopoldo Calvo Sotelo’s Union de Centro Democratico (UCD) government from December 1981 until December 1982.

In all there have been 61 female ministers since the Transition to democracy on Franco’s death in 1975.

The majority of Montseny and Becerril’s successors have belonged ­ or belong ­ to the PSOE socialist party and the conservative Partido Popular.

There have also been Independent ministers affiliated to no party at all, two from Podemos and one from Spain’s PCE communist party.

What Federica Montseny would have made of her successors and their policies is beside the point. She was there first and she held the door open for them.

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

Get started

ADAPTIVE YOGA specialist

Miranda McCarthy has lived with rheumatoid arthritis since she was two.

“I have experienced chronic pain for a lifetime,” she said recently. “But yoga shows you how to re ­ inhabit the body with greater harmony and ease, no matter how painful it might feel,” she explained.

She also recommended beginning the day by rubbing the palms of the hands together before getting out of bed each morning.

“It might sound strange but doing this for a minute or two each morning increases energy levels, helping us to perform with more efficiency,” she said. “It’s a good starting point for anyone who is feeling stiff or struggling with mobility.”

SMOKED SALMON’S omega3, selenium, and Vitamins A and D all boost the immune system, especially in women.

The bacteria is easily destroyed through cooking, explaining why many of the listeriosis food poisoning cases reported involved ready­prepared food and smoked fish.

As a rule, listeriosis is relatively benign with mild symptoms of diarrhoea and nausea. But in people with weakened immune systems, the bacteria can spread from the intestines into the blood­

Not so dangerous Sleepless nights

It’s a pain being ill

stream, causing potentially life­threatening conditions that include sepsis and meningitis. Over­65s are regarded as being at greatest risk from listeriosis, which is

INSOMNIA affects one in three Britons and most are women, although comparatively little research and few trials have concentrated on why they are more affected than men.

Sleep expert Dr Lindsay Brown attributed this lack of interest to the common ­ and traditional ­ assumption that female insom­

regarded as particularly dangerous for the over­80s.

Health professionals also pointed out that listeriosis is unusual in healthy people, including the over­65s.

nia is a ‘woman’s problem’ linked to hormonal fluctuations caused by menstruation, pregnancy and menopause.

“There’s a catastrophic lack of knowledge about women’s health as a whole, and this is just one more life­altering concern that’s been left on the side­lines,” Dr Brown said.

THE Gender Pain Gap not only exists, but is a common problem.

A UK study of more than 5,000 men and women aged between 18 and 65 regarding their experiences and perceptions of pain found a noticeable disparity.

Fifty per cent of the women taking part in the survey reported lack of support from GPs when trying to get help for pain, compared to only 36 per cent of men, ac ­

cording to the Gender Pain Gap Index Report published by painkillers manufacturer Reckitt Benckiser.

Sixty ­ three per cent of the women said that they believed men’s pain was taken more seriously owing to ‘gender discrimination’ by healthcare professionals. A further 56 per cent said they felt they were ignored or merely dismissed as ‘emotional’ compared with 49 per cent of men.

GENDER GAP: Women’s pain taken less seriously than men’s

SMOKED SALMON: Boosts the immune system.

Photo credit: Pexels/Karolina Grabowska Photo credit:

Creative women

A STUDY published in Frontiers in Psychology involved 72 women completing various tasks.

In one, they were asked to list as many uses as possible for an everyday object. In another they were shown three words and asked to produce a fourth word related to them.

After the women’s ideas were scored by four independent evaluators, the results showed that they displayed most originality during the ovulatory phase, suggesting this could be when females are at their most creative.

Leave well alone

FORMER Bake Off finalist

Kimberly Wilson, also a psychologist and nutrition expert, fears that ultra­processed food increases waistlines and reduces IQs.

Quoting intelligence researcher James Flynn, she pointed out that IQ levels in most developed countries have fallen since the 1990s, coinciding with increased consumption of over­processed foods.

“Don’t buy anything with more than five ingredients, don’t eat it if sugar is one of the top three ingredients and if you can’t pronounce it then don’t eat it,” Kimberley advised.

Fat load of good

HEALTH experts increasingly question whether a low ­ fat diet benefits everyone.

By the 1980s doctors, dietitians and even the food industry regarded fats as the villain of the piece, although according to Dr Vijaya Surampudi, assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of California, not all fats are bad.

Certain types including saturated and trans ­ fats, can increase the risk of heart disease or stroke but

Work out with weights

healthy fats found in olive and other plant oils, actually help reduce the risk, he said.

AS women’s bones lose their density, the best way to pro tect them is by retaining mus cle mass.

Building strength in middle age contributes to defining the shape of your old age and a good way to do this is with weights, trainers say.

For absolute beginners who haven’t worked out for some time, low­resistance body­weight exercises like walking or dancing are a good start.

A wee problem

IN 2015, a German court recognised a man’s right to urinate while standing.

In a country where men are now encouraged to sit while peeing, his landlord wanted economic compensation for urine damage to the marble bathroom floor.

Despite lacking reliable data for the UK, an informal poll revealed that about 70 per cent of men still stand.

Urologists explained that there are many advantages to sitting, and not only to men’s partners who have to clean the bathroom.

“The bladder empties faster and for men with lower urinary tract symptoms the sitting position is preferable to standing,” they maintain.

This prepares muscles for the change in routine. Then, when you first pick up a weight, start light and level up as you become more comfort able.

Give senna a miss

BLOGGERS and influencers claim that detox teas can help to lose weight, achieve a flatter tummy and banish bloating. Many contain senna, a natural laxative which should be avoided, warned Dr Gunter Kuhnle, Professor of Nutrition and Food Science at Reading University. Using laxatives was potentially dangerous, leading to constipation and an increased risk of colorectal cancer, he said. “There is no need for ‘detox’ as the body is fairly capable of doing this alone.”

WEIGHT TRAINING: Protects women’s bones by retaining muscle mass.

5.5

years is the average amount of years that women live longer than men.

STANDING ROOM ONLY: Men are encouraged to sit.

HELLO my angels, the card I have pulled this week is the great gathering. In the past few months the vibrational shift around us has seen us either cut off people that no longer serves us, we either out ­ grew them, or they have chosen to walk away.

Even though this might be hurtful and painful when this happens it’s making room for growth within yourself and for new people to come in more in line with your vibration. There is a saying that goes “some people are in your life for a lifetime or a season and there is always a reason.”

You have to make the decision of what person fits where, everyone is either a lesson or a blessing and this will help you learn your lessons for your path of where you are meant to be, this is happening at all ages, whether you’re single, married, divorced, what ever age you are it

does not matter, the universe wants you to grow and align yourself with whatever door is opening for you, the door of opportunity and greatness, and with that along comes people that will help lift you up and be your biggest cheerleader, wherever you are this is where you are meant to be.

At the moment you are never on your own even if you feel like you are, you are making room for what is to come, remember to drop the fear it’s easy to make excuses because you’re fearful of what’s to come so ask yourself this question, how is life working out for you at the moment with not having any faith? Because being fearful if you do not have any faith, either in the universe or within yourself that you can attract and achieve your goals however big or small they are.

As soon as you make the decision to better your life it will feel like you can breathe, the new people that come in to your life will only enhance you and you feel a sense of balance

and peace and everything will flow more easily to you. So now let’s start looking forward to the new people, new experiences and new opportunities. This may both focus on what lights up your soul, and the right people will align towards you. Maybe it’s time to start the new class you have been dreaming about or start the gym membership you have been planning to, all these things you have been putting off, sometimes we feel we are too busy to put new things in our life, so why not start online? Online group of your interest, start that dating profile you have been thinking about doing, remember the universe is a magnet and by taking the right steps and by taking actions today you will be attracting the people you need in your life right now. And creating a path that fulfils your deepest dreams.

Let me know how this is going, next week I will be talking all things manifestation and how you can attract everything you can desire in to your life.

If you would like to know more or have a reading please go to my website to book your own personal privet reading with myself you can find me on Instagram @theangelic.medium or visit my website. https://www.theangelicpsychicmedium.com sending lots of love yours Emma.

What the universe has in store

My tarot card I have pulled off this week is ‘The Great Gathering’

DAVID WORBOYS THINKING ALOUD

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.

WE MUST BE JOKING

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?

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

Getting the best sleep

REGULAR contributor, Marcel Salazar tackles an issue we all know about and which we all do: sleep. But are we getting the best out of your sleep for your overall health? Marcel explains that studies show that if you get at least seven hours of sleep per night and that this is especially relevant for men. Less than four hours sleep per night can affect testosterone levels which affects other bodily systems. Women sleeping four hours or less may also reduce their libido.

Not getting enough sleep can affect memory retention by up to 70 per cent. Whilst everyone is different with regards to their sleep requirements, less than 5 per cent of the population can function well on four hours or less of sleep per night. Not having enough sleep can

have a significant impact on our cognitive system and problem solving skills.

Quality of sleep is also important so that we can go through the various stages of sleep which the brain will use to process the events of the days. He also gives his take on the Spanish custom of ‘siestas’ in Spain. Sleep deprivation can also affect moods and immunity and he explains the processes involved in this.

What can affect the quality of sleep we get?

First of all stay hydrated. Get exercise at some point during the day, and try to avoid using screens 30­60 minutes before you go to bed. Getting the right mattress for you is important, but the pillow is critical for keeping our muscular/skeletal system healthy and for women, whose hips are generally wider, a pillow between the knees will help to prevent aches and pains in the morning.

Marcel can be found on YouTube at Strong for Life ­ Physical Therapy.

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

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

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

MARBELLA MOMENTS

BY NICOLE KING

TONIGHT’S new episode of Marbella Now #MN387 brings us an update on the situation facing us Brits living abroad following Brexit.

Anne Hernández MBE of Brexpats in Spain International is well versed in the difficulties yet to face for those whose documentation is not in order and for those still wishing to move here.

Of interest for families of elderly people who can no longer live on their own in

#MN387 Tonight

Marbella meet Victoria Herrero of CK La Quinta. This age care home is set in glorious gardens and prides itself on their personal and attentive approach to their multinational clients. Victoria is from The Netherlands and is a qualified nurse who has found her calling in ensuring our latter years are as comfortable as possible. Paula Chinchilla has been introduced to me by Victoria as she collaborates with CK La Quinta. Paula is

a Life Coach and specialises in palliative home care. Together with her sister they have a dedicated team which is now also offering their services along the Costa del Sol. A very positive addition to our community indeed and I’m delighted for you all to meet her.

In my ‘out and about’ sections we go along to the Age Concern Marbella San Pedro luncheon, held at Everest Fusion a week ago. This was a particularly emblematic occasion as it was the day after the passing of my colleague and friend, James Kayll. There are no words to express enough sympathy for Lynda, his family and friends. His sudden and unexpected departure has been deeply felt within our community and he will be very much

Helping rural economies

CAMPERS and caravanners

increase their contribution to rural economies, according to the UK Caravan and Motorhome Club.

Despite the continuing cost of living crisis, Caravan and Motorhome Club members are still intending to make the most of their holidays and spend in local economies in 2023.

Over 80 per cent of respondents in a recent survey said they intend to eat and drink out whilst on their UK touring holiday this year and over 90 per cent said they will buy food shopping locally.

A further 60 per cent said they would be purchasing takeaways and food from

local restaurants whilst on their holiday.

According to the recent Centre of Economics and Business Research (CEBR) report commissioned by the Caravan and Motorhome Club, owners of leisure vehicles feel more in control of the cost of their holiday and whilst they are saving on accommodation, they are likely to spend money on shopping, eating out, visitor attractions, etc.

Owners of leisure vehicles also tend to stay away for slightly longer, increasing local spending. The CEBR report shows that motorhome owners’ average holiday length is nearly a whole day extra at 8.5 nights.

missed and dearly remembered.

On a lighter note I also take you up to meet Nicole Jones and the International Theatre School dance group who recently completed in the Spanish show ‘Got Talent’. The girls’ experience has been second to none and I think we can all enjoy and benefit from their enthusiasm and vitality. I also popped along to the official opening Party of Picú Banus. This restaurant is right next to and belongs to the El Gaucho de Banus group of restaurants; all of which I’m proud and delighted to say are #ZeroHero Partners.

them. Marbella

Now is sponsored by: Linea Directa Car, Bike and Home insurance ­ headline sponsor of Marbella Now, United Nationalities of Marbella Summits and #Zerohero. They offer extra special benefits for our international Marbella Community. Call 952 147 834 for further details on policies, Marbella discount code: C007701, courtesy car, free taxi up to four times a month, GPS locator service and everything in English with superb customer service. Marbella Now is available via streaming, online from RTVMarbella.TV/television/Marbella­Now, also

from RTV Marbella’s YouTube channel, my YouTube Channel and website and our social media. Thank you for liking, sharing and following. #bettertogether #MarbellaNow #RTVMarbella #community #residents #networking #zerohero www.nicoleking.es

I would also like to give special thanks to Terry Shaughnessy for my theme tune ‘Brand new Day’ and ‘We are as one’ by Surianne for our UNMS an ­

Hi de hi campers

Caravan challenge

HARDCORE caravanning fans will know the Bailey of Bristol Sahara Challenge is set to begin in March.

The challenge is a 19­day, 2,735­mile intercontinental road trip using two Bailey caravans and a motorhome.

The Sahara Challenge aims to inspire caravan and motorhome owners to explore new countries and demonstrate that owning one means you can have holidays in many locations across the globe.

CAMPERS are planning longer holidays this summer, spending more nights under the stars for breaks booked between June and September.

Since 2019 the Camping and Caravanning Club has reported an increase in the average length of stay for summer stays on its nearly 100 Club Sites across the UK, as campers look to switch off and reconnect.

It appears the trend is set to continue in 2023.

Camping is officially the home to happier holidays according to the Outjoyment Report, which was commissioned by the Club and carried out by Liverpool John Moores University and Sheffield Hallam University.

The report confirmed that “campers are 23 per cent less anxious than noncampers, with 97 per cent saying happiness is their top motivator for going camping, caravanning or motorhoming.”

“It appears that pitching up on a campsite this summer will have measurably positive effects on our health and well­being.”

Nicola Simpson, the Club’s Director of Communications, said: “Even though we are seeing booking patterns normalising more compared to the last three years, our membership levels are still holding up really well and we have some 750,000 members of the Club.”

The ‘Sahara Challenge’ will start at ‘World’s End’ in southwest Portugal across the Strait of Gibraltar into Morocco over the Atlas Mountains and as far south as the edge of the Sahara Desert before returning home.

The Sahara Challenge will take 19 days to complete with the team experiencing a wide range of road and weather conditions en route.

As they travel towards the Sahara the team will post regular blogs/vlogs and social media updates using the hashtag #SaharaChallenge.

Marbella Now episode MN387.

Campers buy food locally.

Happy camping.

Image: anatoliy_gleb / Shutterstock.com

Image: Anetlanda / Shutterstock.com

PETS

Different walks

DOGGY walkers based in Sussex, England, are in the enviable position of now being able to take their furry friends on a dog walk with a difference.

Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden in Sussex, England, has now opened its spectacular landscape to dogs seven days a week.

For the first time, dogs and their owners can visit Wakehurst seven days a week and have the chance to walk the world from the heart of Sussex, exploring an incredible range of habitats across the 535acre site.

Over 10km of paths designated for dogs will wind through the gardens, traversing paths alongside towering woodland species from Australasia and North America, ravines of rhododendrons from eastern Himalaya, and the peaceful oasis of the Water Gardens filled with flourishing seasonal flowers.

Director of Wakehurst Ed Ikin says, “At Wakehurst, we believe a stroll through our wild landscape forms a dog walk with a difference. With each visit, people walking their dogs will be contributing to Kew’s critical conservation work and pioneering science research undertaken to combat biodiversity loss.”

Pet-sitters for your next trip

IF you are looking for pet­sitters ahead of your next trip try using HouseSitMatch. Our house­sitting and petsitting network can help pet owners meet great checked pet­sitters, and secure care for their pets, for free!

If you are planning a trip later this year, register now to find pet ­ sitters in time. Even if it’s just a short trip, you’ll know that sometimes you just have to leave pets at home. Young and senior pets in particular benefit from staying in their own home, so they can follow their routines undisturbed. Let us help.

Choose Housesitmatch. com for affordable travel, home and pet care. These are the steps to take:

1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.

We can help you plan ahead to find checked free petsitters

com

2. Choose a Premium account (£89 per year) to ensure you can get help online when needed

3. Create a profile with photos of your pet and the house

4. Post a house ­ sit advert stating your plans for next year’s holiday Covid permitting How does it work?

HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join

our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert saying when you are going on holiday.

House­sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter who’ll care for your pets.

Trustpilot Testimonials ­

4.9 / 5 Excellent

“HouseSit Match found us a perfect house.sitter…

HouseSitMatch found us a perfect house­sitter while we were away in Canada and we were delighted with the care and attention that HouseSitMatch took in helping us find the right person.”

Ros Morris ­ Dog owner

How do you join?

Please register online via our website www.Housesit match.com.

Do you need a housesitter? Get in touch. House-sitting can be a win-win for both parties, free house and petsitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation! Register as either housesitter or homeowner with a 50% discount using coupon code 20EWN – an exclusive offer for readers. To find a house pet-sitter go to www.HousesitMatch.com

Crufts TV takeover

Furry friend exhibition

FANS of our furry friends will be pleased to hear that a new dog photography exhibition has opened at the Kennel Club Art Gallery.

A special capsule exhibition by Lincolnshirebased photographer, Kirsty Bevan, has just opened at The Kennel Club Art Gallery, showcasing and celebrating the different breeds of Setter.

The capsule, which is open for public viewings at The Kennel Club in London until the end of May 2023, features photographs from various locations around the UK of all four Setter breeds: the Irish Red Setter, the English Setter, the Gordon Setter and the Irish

Hidey holes

THERE are lots of reasons why a cat might hide. Cats hide to feel safe, and in order to protect themselves from things they perceive as dangerous or stressful so it’s important to find out the reasons why your cat is hiding.

Cats as a species are selfreliant, so when faced with a difficult situation your cat would naturally prefer to avoid it rather than charge in and fight. Your cat will hide when there is something, or someone, nearby that is causing them concern. They may be frightened or just wary about something unfamiliar and might want to keep out of the way, just in case.

If you leave them to it you will usually find that they will come out of hiding once they have realised that whatever it was they were frightened of isn’t actually scary at all.

Red and White Setter.

Kirsty shared the inspiration behind her latest project: “I have always been around Setters, so I knew that my first photography project had to be on them!

“The sole aim of this project is to capture the inquisitive personality of the four Setter breeds and showcase their naturally regal appearance.”

The exhibition is open to the public at The Kennel Club Art Gallery at 10 Clarges Street, Mayfair, W1J 8AB, from Monday to Friday between 9.30am to 4.30pm.

To book your visit, call (+44) 20 7518 1064.

DOG lovers will be treated to a recordbreaking 16 hours and 30 minutes of Crufts coverage as the world’s greatest dog show returns to Channel 4 and More4 this March.

With an additional 15 minutes more coverage than last year and over 100 minutes more than the 2020 show, viewers can look forward to a total of nine and a half hours of Crufts on Channel 4 alone!

Clare Balding will host daily highlights of the world’s most famous

dog event live from the NEC, Birmingham and will be joined by a team of reporters including Radzi Chinyanganya and, returning for her second year, Sophie Morgan, along with canine experts who will be covering the show.

Vanessa McAlpine, Crufts Show Manager, said: “We are delighted that Channel 4 and More4 will be offering viewers at home the opportunity to enjoy this year’s Crufts, with more coverage than ever. The event celebrates every ­

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

thing that we love the most about dogs and highlights the benefits that dogs bring to our lives, so it’s no surprise that it holds such a special place in dog lovers’ hearts.”

Hiding places are one of your cat’s basic needs. Providing a selection of possible options, such as some open cupboard doors, areas under beds, cardboard boxes and gaps behind sofas will give your cat a choice of places to go when they feel like hiding.

Image: Kew Gardens

WILD LANDSCAPES: A dog walk with a difference.

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 (1296179)

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@envirocare spain.com www.envirocare spain.com (301178)

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@aceof shades.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 blackout blinds. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceof shades.design (101730)

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

MOSQUITO screens, sliding, pulldown, pleated, colours call Mosquito Nick 647 072 861 www.mosquitonick.ws (301311)

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@solar shadetinting.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (292919)

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)

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 (302737)

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 (295923)

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

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.thear kspain.com (293850)

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 (290739)

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.conejocleaning.com (303017)

STARLIGHT Property Cleaning & Maintenance. All types of cleaning. Any size of property. All Areas. Residential & Holiday Lets. 682 636451 www.starlight -spain.com (302059)

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.rainbowpinturas.com (302039)

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

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 (303048)

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

HOME CARE for elderly. Independent responsible female (46 years) available Fuengirola & surrounding areas. Flexible Hours. Telephone 652 214 995 (303121)

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 (290739)

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 (302415)

COLLECTIVE CALLING are urgently requesting donations of clothing, homeware & furniture, so if you are having a House Clearance, Please call us for FREE COLLECTION. 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)

ALL ELECTRICAL work, rewiring, fault finding 30 years’ experience. Frank Tel. or Whatsapp 650 561 629

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)

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

THE FILMS SHOWING IN ENGLISH ARE FROM 03/03 TO 09/03

PLAZA MAYOR CINEMA

Malaga

ANT MAN AND WASP: QUANTUMANIA

THURS: 18:55

TUES: 22:25

THE FABEL MAN

SUN: 12:40

TUES: 17:10

SING WITH A SPARK OF HARMONY EVERY DAY: 5PM

CREED

FRIDAY, SAT, SUN: 16:00

TUES: 19:35

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER

FRIDAY: 15:45

RED DOG CINEMA

Puerto Banus

ANT-MAN AND WASP: QUANTUMANIA

THURS, SAT, SUN: 17:00, 19:20 AND 21:40

MON, TUES, WED: 17:00 AND 19:20

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER 3D

MON, TUES, WED, FRI: 17:15

SAT, SUN, AND TUES: 12:00, 15:30 AND 17:00

THURS: 17:30

BABYLON

THURS, SAT, SUN: 19:20

FRI, MON, TUES, WED, 20:45

PLANE

THURS, MON, TUES, WED: 19:40

FRI: 20:45

SAT AND SUN: 21:10

PUSS IN BOOTS: THE LAST WISH

EVERY DAY: 17:15

SAT AND SUN: 12:00, 17:15

THE AMAZING MAURICE

WEDS, THURS,FRI,MON, TUES, WEDS: 17:15

SAT AND SUN: 12:00, 15:00

THE FABELMAN

EVERYDAY: 17:00

WOMEN TALKING

THURS: 21:40

TERRIFIER 2

MON,TUES,WED,THURS,FRI:21:00

SAT AND SUN: 19:40

TILL

WEDS,THURS: 17:00, 19:20

FRI, SAT, SUN, MON,

TUES, WED: 21:45

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)

FURNITURE wanted, same day collection, also house clearance and removals. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071 (302415)

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)

ELECTRIC GATE/GARAGE

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

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 (294592)

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

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)

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

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 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.

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

ALHAURIN FURNITURE EMPORIUM furniture wanted, same day collection, also house clearance and removals. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071 (302415)

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!

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

LOCKSMITHS

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

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

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 (303050)

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

ENGLISH ELEGANT independent & affectionate lady in late 40s, gives a sensual golfers massage to relieve tension in her discreet private apartment. Satisfaction guaranteed. Call 680 177 569 (302492)

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

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)

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 attractive-

ness, 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 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)

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 (303024)

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 2901)

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)

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

ESTEPONA area. Kannika sweet Asian masseuse. Various massage. For more service details WhatsApp me 602 427 095 (FU 2891)

FILIPINO MASSAGE CENTER

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

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)

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

BOLICHES CELINA independent loving lady, kind, beautiful affectionate only for educated discreet respectable gentleman! Enjoy deep sensitive exciting relaxing massages in private discreet apartment, quiet cosy atmosphere high satisfaction! Excellent calm

treatments! Demanding excellent hygiene! Appointments 11am/6pm 622 210 797 (FU 2918)

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)

ASIAN touch www.asianmassagemarbella.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 (301025)

CANDI Spanish Student Masseur 20yrs, Ask for pictures. At Massaur center or I can come to visit. Tel 662 527 815 (301025)

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

BENALMADENA . 2 young masseurs 19 & 22 for individual massage or couples. Hotel or home service. Tel 679 267 197(301025)

MARBELLA. Karina ts, 29, Brazilian masseuse feminine blonde. Whatsapp 667 846 464 (FU 2916)

SAN PEDRO DE ALCANTARACamilla Masseur 33 - private apartment - 603 804 443 (303040)

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

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)

NEW Salome 19 years old beautiful Arab masseuse, massage and relaxation 631 862 272. (FU 2921)

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

NEW Jazmin 19 years old Dominican mulatto, beautiful masseuse, massage and relaxation 631 862 272 (FU 2921)

FUENGIROLA Centre. We are 5 beautiful friends, masseuses, discreet. Treat yourself. 631 862 272 (FU 2921)

JESSICA 28, Estepona. Full tantric massage. High class service. Private apartment. 711 030 670 (302663)

MARBELLA Tantric ritual massage with aromatherapy to leave completely renewed. 642 751 070 (2907)

MASSAGE! Outcalls everywhere in Costa del Sol! Gentlemen, ladies, couples are welcome! 604 256 336 (FU 2920)

SARA Venezuelan, professional relaxing therapeutic & sensitive massage. I can visit you. For more information contact me 632 770 051 (303021)

SAN PEDRO BEACH. RELAXING AND SENSITIVE MASSEUSES WELCOME YOU IN A PRIVATE AND DISCREET PLACE. YOUNG AND PLEASANT. WITH APPOINTMENT. EASY, PRIVATE PARKING. TEl.. 666 194 079 - 674 679 757. (302298)

NEW Fuengirola Emily 19 years old massage and relaxation 603 366 841 (FU 2922)

PROFESSIONAL massage on the table. WhatsApp and Viber. Irina, blonde. 603 426 236 (FU 2919)

ESTEPONA Exotic masseuse, pleasing personality, variety of massages, complete relaxation, more service details WhatsApp Me 678 315 756. (FU 2913)

FUENGIROLA. Marisa, 38 years old, mature, all kinds of massages. Only WhatsApp. 631 659 408 (FU 2917)

ASIAN MASSUER offers relaxing full body massage. Home Visits. WhatsApp 711 027 300 for details (302299)

MISCELLANEOUS

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

MOSQUITO SCREENS

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@aceofshades.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)

MOTORING

New, super to drive, it’s VW Golf enough said! ONLY €22,500 See photos on my web page –www.robertsoncars-spain,com or text me whatsapp 608 658 785

Email: therobertsonclan@gmail. com

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.

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)

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 therobertsonclan@ 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 therobertsonclan@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.robertsoncars-spain,com or text me whatsapp 608 658 785

Email: therobertsonclan@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.robertsoncars-spain,com or text me whatsapp 608 658 785

Email: therobertsonclan@gmail. com

ROBERTSON CARS JUST ARRIVED.. LIKE A NEW GOLF?AUTOMATIC VOLKSWAGEN GOLF TSI EVO ADVANCE 2019 only 30,000kms, sliver, 5 door hatchback. Condition like

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)

WANTED

ALL CARS / Commercials wanted, runners or non-runners. Cash. Buyer collects. Transfer included. 605 109 796 (302091)

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)

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

KENNELS

CAT & DOG World Kennels and Cattery. 952 112 978 / 630 197 435. www.catanddogworld.com (302750)

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)

INTERNATIONAL SKIPPER LICENCE: Courses held in English and starts soon. VHF and Radar Courses. 626 245 098 (303051)

NAUTICAL OTHERS

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

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)

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.horsere scuespain.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)

INSURANCE

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 clearout, 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. (93317)

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@intermar bella.com (295509)

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@inter marbella.com (295509)

PROP MAINTENANCE

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 (101730)

ROLLER shutter repairs, 7 days a week, conversion from manual to motorised, new installations. All areas covered. Coast and inland. 655 825 931 (294242)

UPHOLSTERY

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

PLUMBING POOLS

PLUMBING . Leak detection & blocked drains. Tel 952 568 414 / 661 910 772 / drainspain.com (292976)

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. (290739)

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 (302705)

STARLIGHT Property Cleaning & Maintenance. All Areas. Residential & Holiday Lets. Persiana repairs, Decorating, Electrial & Plumbing repairs. 682 636451 www.starlight-spain.com (302059)

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

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)

REMOVALS & STORAGE

15 CUBIC metre van returning to the UK 24th March 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 908 929. See Facebook Page for recommendations (301271)

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@so larshadetinting.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 (301301)

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 (303027)

SWIMMING Pool Heating Pumps, Pool Covers, Rollers, Filtration Systems. 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)

WESTARPOOLS. Pool construction, renovation, repairs and heating. 619 246 372 / www.westar pools.com (302695)

TRANSLATORS

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

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

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 (301178)

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 571644 546 176 ian@solarshadetint ing.com (292919)

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)

A superbly accomplished package

ROAD TEST

byMarkSlack

SO many people think that unless you have owned an Alfa Romeo you are not a true petrol head, and you can kind of see their point. While classic Alfas probably still deserve their reputation for being temperamental, newer models have in theory left that reputation behind.

The trouble is reputations can take a long time to disappear and that’s a shame because it prevents many people from enjoying some cracking cars, and they don’t come anymore cracking than the Stelvio Quadrifoglio.

The ‘standard’ Stelvio range is by no means backward in accelerating forward, with even the least athletic engine producing 190hp and the most powerful 280hp. It is the 510hp Quadrifoglio that is the re­

al star though, it’s like an automotive Summanus. This is an SUV very defi nitely designed with per formance, rather than off ­ roading in mind, and it REALLY performs.

It doesn’t come cheap though with prices starting at €90,247/£79,619, which puts the Alfa against some very stiff competition from arguably much more premium badges. Standard fare on the Quadrifoglio is suitably generous, as you would expect on a car of this price, and the interior is a heady mix of leather.

On the road the Quadrifoglio has a bit of a dual personality. It is quite happy to potter through urban streets, but show it an open road and its inner darkness is revealed.

Reaching 62mph in 3.8

seconds is good in anyone’s book, but when you’re talking about a large SUV it is particularly impressive. The Quadrifoglio is light thanks to the use of aluminium and carbon fibre but it’s the allround performance, not just speed, from the way it puts the power down, to the handling and steering.

It’s a superbly accom ­

plished package.

The power delivery is nothing short of vicious and the exhaust note delivers a much more tuneful, if equally loud, output as many a supercar.

This is a well ­ honed, well ­ crafted and hugely entertaining car. It manages to combine so many positive attributes and is a

delight to drive.

It’s achilles heel is price, the competition is just so much more premium in not just badge but build quality and feel. The Stelvio isn’t bad by any means, but it just isn’t £80k worth of quality. It’s for this reason that I suspect many premium badge drivers will stay loyal to their usual fare, but the few that don’t will not be disappointed.

Facts at a Glance

Model: Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio

Price €90,247/£79,619

Engine: 2.9-litre, bi-turbo, V6-cylinder, petrol

Gears: 8-speed automatic

Performance: 0-100kmh/62mph 3.8seconds. Maximum Speed 283kmh/176mph

Economy: 11.8 litres per 100km/23.9mpg combined driving WLTP

Emissions: 267g/km WLTP

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

STELVIO RANGE: A well-honed, hugely entertaining car.

It’s a world first

Busy times for Spanish Industry minister

SPANISH Industry minister

Reyes Maroto has been very busy lately.

Speaking at a recent press conference in Paris, Sra Maroto confirmed that Renault and Stellantis are due to launch new production lines in Spain in the near future.

zero interest.

The first part of the scheme was unsuccessful, with 75 per cent of the funds reserved for the loans left unclaimed due to the short timeframe for companies to carry out the necessary investments ­ the deadline was June 2025.

THE world’s first digger, powered by a hydrogen combustion engine, will soon be on UK roads and building sites following recent government approval, helping to decarbonise the UK’s construction industry.

The UK government has given special dispensation, under a vehicle special order, that allows JCB, the British construction equipment manufacturer, to test and use its world­first hydrogen­powered backhoe loader on UK roads.

With 25 per cent of the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions coming from the built environment, it’s vital the entire construction indus­

try looks to decarbonise at every stage.

Technology and Decarbonisation Minister, Jesse Norman, said: “From cars to construction sites, the industry has a vital role in decarbonising our economy and creating green jobs and prosperity.”

JCB Chairman Lord Bamford confirmed: “Securing this vehicle special order from the Department for Transport is an important first step in getting JCB machines that are powered by hydrogen combustion engines to and from British building sites using the public highway.

“It’s an endorsement that JCB is on the right path in pursuit of its net zero ambitions.”

“We are generating a climate of confidence for such important companies as Renault and Stellantis to continue investing in our country,” she said.

More specifically, the Spanish government is working to improve conditions for electric vehicle manufacturers, enabling more firms to apply for development loans with

Uptick in demand

Manufacturers called for the period to be extended by three years until 2028, which the ministry led by Sra Maroto has confirmed will be done as it has already been given the go ­ ahead by the European Union.

Stellantis currently has three electric vehicle assembly plants in Spain, located in Galicia, Zaragoza and Madrid. The Industry ministry is currently negotiating with the firm to boost production and guarantee employment at the three plants for at least another 15 years.

On the other hand, Renault does not currently manufacture electric vehicles in Spain, with production taking place in France. However, the company is negotiating with Sra

Maroto’s department to extend the loan scheme to cover hybrid vehicles ­ which does not look likely, as the EU is focusing its efforts on 100 per cent electric mobility.

But Reyes Maroto has also been in the news for different reasons lately. The Industry chief is planning to leave the ministry shortly in order to stand for the local elections in Madrid for the PSOE on May 28.

Her main rival will be current mayor Jose Luis Martinez Almeida (PP), whose popularity has waned significantly in recent months due to revelations concerning allegedly fraudulent business practices during the Covid pandemic.

The PSOE hopes that Sra Maroto will help put the party back on the map in the Spanish capital after years of very poor results.

EV charge points

GOVERNMENTS across the world are ploughing funds into the green agenda which involves electric vehicles.

The UK is set to spend £56 million of public funding for electric vehicle charge points. Electric vehicle drivers from Cumbria to West Sussex will benefit from the continued expansion of electric vehicle charging points across the country.

The funding will expand

the current Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) pilot, boost the existing OnStreet Residential Chargepoint Scheme (ORCS) and help councils secure dedicated resources to develop in­house expertise and capability to coordinate charge point plans and deliver a more comprehensive and reliable network of charge points for drivers.

The government has already spent over £2 billion to

Positive motoring news.

POSITIVE news arrives for the motoring industry as it has been confirmed the UK used car market continues a positive trajectory in February 2023 as prices, sales and demand record an uptick.

According to the latest data from Auto Trader, the health of the used car market is continuing to build momentum, with growth recorded in demand, sales,

and retail prices.

In fact, Auto Trader’s Retail Price Index, which is based on daily pricing analysis of circa 900,000 vehicles across the market, shows the current average price of a used car is £17,880, which marks a 1.7 per cent year­on­year increase on a like­for­like basis.

Although the rate of growth is down significant­

ly from a peak of 32 per cent year­on­year in April 2022. This current rate is on top of the massive 31.9 per cent year­on­year increase recorded this time last year.

It also marks a monthon­month increase of 0.7 per cent, which is not only ahead of the 0.3 per cent recorded last month, but also the 0.4 per cent February average between 2011 and 2019.

support the move to zeroemission vehicles, helping drive forward the decarbonisation of the UK’s entire transport system.

Running out of gas or electricity produces the same result: your car will stop. In the case of a gas car, a roadside service truck can usually bring you a can of gas, or tow you to the nearest gas station. Similarly, an electric car can simply be towed to the nearest charging station.

Image: Alberto Zornetta Shutterstock.com

Image by Fernando Astasio Avila/Shutterstock

Industry minister and PSOE candidate for Madrid, Reyes Maroto.

SPECIAL ORDER: Powered by a hydrogen combustion engine.

Image: UK government / Department of Transport

More funding.

Image: UK government Department of Transport

70% of women who are of the legal age to drive in the UK

Manchester United win

MANCHESTER UNITED and Newcastle United faced off in the Carabao Cup Final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, February 26. Erik ten Hag’s side eventually ran out 2 ­ 0 winners to land the Red Devils’ first piece of silverware since 2017.

Casemiro broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute. The Brazilian playmaker met Luke Shaw’s free ­ kick and headed it beyond Loris Karius to give United the lead. Just six minutes later it was 2 ­ 0 when a shot from Marcus Rashford was deflected into the net by Sven Botman.

Eddie Howe has done a fantastic job since taking charge of the Magpies, but his strikers seem to have become goal­shy recently. His attempts to stage a comeback in the second half proved fruitless. His club has now gone since 1969 without winning any trophies.

DENMARK has now been officially appointed as the hosting nation for the IPCH European Championship which will be hosted in Musholm from October 20 to 28, 2024.

IPCH is the international IWAS committee that represents powerchair hockey all over the world and it is happy to announce that the hosting nation for the IPCH European Championship 2024 has finally been selected.

Denmark will host the competition in Musholm: a

Eleven wins in a row

PFC Malaga had to fight until the last minute to take a comeback win against UD Antequera at home in the league. A last minute strike from Shakira Fuentes handed Pedro Martin’s team all three points.

PFC Malaga Women were facing one of their closest rivals in the league and this high quality match didn’t disap point. The 2­1 win over UD Antequera included both great defence and swift at tacking moves, but the mid field scored the goals to seal an 11th straight win in the second Senior Women’s Andaluza league and consolidate top spot.

Colombian International player Luisa Vertel scored the equaliser in min 43.

Although one could easily have suspected more Antequera goals were on the way in the second half, but home keeper Marina Jimenez was going to have a big say in mak­

ing sure that that was not the case.

Referee Samuel Moreno was in a card giving mood and handed out yellow cards like it was candy during the three kings parade.

After around 45 minutes of dominant defensive football by both teams, Sakira Fuentes finally gave Malaga the lead.

The crowd and atmosphere at Guadalmar football field was electric and fun as soon as Fuentes scored the crowd on hand went into a frenzy.

United continued their fine form on all fronts in today’s match. Jose Mourinho was in charge the last time the club won anything, which was the exact same trophy. One can only feel though that under the control of their new Dutch manager, this will not be the last time.

Power hockey

Malaga started like a team in a hurry and there was a flurry of chances in the early minutes of the contest with numerous missed opportunities that came and went.

It ended up being UD Ante quera who drew first blood with a score from Nerea Pe droza in min 36’.

It came as no surprise when

PFC Malaga manager Pedro Martín said after the match “They made it very difficult for us, yes, but despite everything, I think we deserved it.”

That’s 11 league wins in a row in total for a team that has forgotten how to lose.

The next game for the Malaguena team is on March 12 against cross town rivals Malaga FC Women B at Jose Gallardo Municipal Field in Malaga.

unique holiday, sports, and conference centre in the middle of Denmark. Located by the Danish coastline,

Howell takes LIV golf title

CHARLES HOWELL III claimed his first LIV Golf title in impressive style, with a stunning final­round score of eight­under ­ par 63 to finish 16 under at the season ­ opening Mayakoba event in Mexico on Sunday, February 26.

The LIV Golf series features 14 events which combined are worth a whopping €380 million. The tournament’s team format added an extra layer of excitement, with Howell playing alongside former US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau and India's Anirban Lahiri to secure the team event victory for Crushers GC.

Speaking after his victory, Howell explained, “I had a lot of experience here. I think having played it in the wind for so many years helped a little bit..

With the first event of the season providing plenty of thrills and excitement, golf fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the second LIV Golf event later in March in Arizona.

just an hour’s drive from Copenhagen, Musholm is designed as one of the world’s most innovative and inclusive holiday and sports resorts.

Musholm resort and the sports hall will be the beating heart of the competition hosting the Team Delegations and the games. Training will be organised in a nearby sports hall.

Eight national teams will participate in the European Championship 2024 which will be held from October 20 until 28, 2024, and the competition will serve as Regional Championship to define the qualification slots for the World Championship 2026.

PFC Malaga Women.

MAN UTD: Continued to play in fine form.

Image: Saudi Tourism Authority

50% of women worldwide are interested in sport.

Denmark to host.

Image: Sportcal

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 02 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 well­drilled 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 sixhour event was a huge success, with all games being played in a friendly but competitive atmosphere, splendidly controlled by referees Dave Coverdale and Ian Flynn.

All games were tight affairs, as each match consisted of 14 minutes of play with no breaks. Steadily,

Agriculture & rugby

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.

It was, perhaps, fitting that one of the Scottish teams were the victors, 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 finished, with requests to repeat the tournament next

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.