Costa Blanca North 9 – 15 March 2023 Issue 1966

MIRACLE OPERATION

A WOMAN who was in severe pain in a wheelchair while on the HSE waiting list spoke of a ‘miracle’ operation in Spain that helped her walk again. HSE is the health care service offered in Ireland.

Caroline Halpenny, an All ­ Ireland Irish dance champion in her youth, flew from Ireland to Benidorm in February to undergo life ­ changing surgery.

The 60­year­old says she feels 20 years younger after what the health organisation described as a “miracle” operation at a leading private hospital, which secured reimburse­

ment for the operation from the HSE.

Caroline confirmed: “After my surgery, I was able to push a wheelchair and walk out of the hospital.

said she can’t thank Healthcare Abroad and HCP Hospital in Benidorm enough.

“Dr Curtin was amazing. He supported me the whole time,” she said.

Caroline added that she is looking forward to going home to sleep in a bed again after spending months in pain on the sofa unable to climb stairs.

Women’s Month

BENITACHELL is extending International Women’s Day throughout the month with fun for everyone. Today Thursday March 9 at 4.30pm there will be games and hot chocolate for all at the municipal market, and on Friday the action will move to Plaza de Les Pesqueres with a video presentation followed by snacks and a comedy performance. On Sunday, the Banda del Poble Nou will give its first Women’s Concert in Plaza de la Iglesia, and at 6pm, in Plaza de les Pesqueres, there will be an exhibition of classical and modern dance.

The third Women’s Charity Race will start in the Market Square on Sunday, March 26 at 10.30. Participation costs €3 (donation to APROSDECO) and preregistration is required at www.somesport.com or at Social Services.

My physiotherapist from HCP Hospital in Benidorm came to see me and couldn’t believe how well I had recovered,” she said.

Caroline from Dundalk

CAROLINE HALPENNY: Feels 20 years younger.

Police pilot scheme

THE Local Police force in Finestrat has been chosen from all the towns in Alicante Province for integration into the 112 emergency services of the Valencia Region.

This is a technological advance in real­time communication and coordination between all 112 emergency services in the towns without a 24­hour centre that uses tablets with the RESQWebClient application. Real­time geolocation on the tablet will also allow the emergency services to see the shortest route to the alert to reduce response times.

According to the council­

Traffic and Public Safety, María Dolores Viudes, “We have been investing in technology to improve our service in a very wide and diverse area, from La Cala to our rural areas and the old town. Our Local Police have been chosen, as a benchmark in the province, to implement the 112 call sys­

Charity walk or run in Javea

JAVEA is now accepting registrations for its Women’s Race, the ‘Cursa de Dona’, on Sunday, April 23. This annual charity event is an opportunity for women to join together to raise funds for charity. On this occasion, the organisers ­ the Llebeig Athletics Club and the Department of Equality at Javea Council will donate the proceeds of this charity race to the associations Aprosdeco and Afido.

Aproscedo is a regional non­profit association of relatives and guardians of people with intellectual functional diversity and Afido is a fi­

bromyalgia and pain association.

The organisers, the women of the Llebeig Athletics Club and the Javea Department of Equality have got together to promote this massively popular event that is the culmination of its International Women’s month programme and which always manages to be a day full of fun, joy and sisterhood.

Runners can register at www.somesport. com and in the Esports Colau stores in Javea, Denia and Ondara or at Botiga Decuero or Inmobiliaria Llidomar. The donation is €5.

tem. This will mean faster coordination between all emergency services.

“Our patrol will receive the call on the tablet and we will be able to detect the nearest officer and the time it will take for the other emergency services, such as the fire brigade and ambulance, to arrive.”

“To be successful you need hard work, dedication and purpose. Do not be afraid to learn and surround yourself with people you trust and respect. Listen and take advice from those people more experienced than you. Believe in yourself and keep reminding yourself of your past achievements in order to motivate yourself and achieve further successes. Face the challenges with confidence and positivity. Be brave, creative and find passion in what you do.

New football field in Benissa

THE new eight­a­side soccer field in Benissa ­ the Mini Estadi de Benissa ‘Salvador Baidal’ ­ will officially open at the end of March. After overcoming setbacks caused by the rising cost of raw materials and supply delays due to the war in Ukraine, the council has confirmed that the new facility in Benissa will be finished during the second half of March.

This news has been received with great enthusiasm by the entire sports community in the town.

Apart from some work in

the changing room area and outside, everything is ready for kick­off. The stadium will be named after Salvador Baidal, a key figure in the promotion and development of grassroots football in Benissa.

Baidal dedicated much of his life, time, and money to teaching children to pass, control and dribble, collecting the boys on Sundays for master classes.

A plaque dedicated to him will be unveiled at the official opening ceremony, whose date yet to be determined.

The councillor for sports, Adrián Cabrera has recognised the efforts of all the departments involved in making this new facility a reality.

LOCAL POLICE: Will pilot the new geolocation scheme.

Val Williams, Simply Thriving

47 hours and 15 minutes is the average time a woman can keep a secret.

NIBS EXTRA

Public services

CALPE Town Council has published an online survey on public transport to find out what its residents need and want. The information gathered will be used to improve the current transport options in the town, with the possibility of launching a tender for additional services.

Fine fare

LOVERS of good food will be flocking to La Vila from March 10 to 19 to eat special menus at the town’s top restaurants as part of its flagship culinary event. All menus will end with a dessert, chocolates and nougat produced by local companies.

Tram travesty

A 67-YEAR-OLD man was knocked over by the tram as he walked across a pedestrian crossing in Denia. He sustained serious injuries to his forehead and to the back of his head. The man, who did lose consciousness, was taken to Denia Hospital by ambulance. This is the first accident since the service resumed on 16 January.

Digital literacy

MORE than 600 people in Benidorm signed up for free computer courses in Benidorm. With more than 100 different courses, Benidorm runs one of the most ambitious digital literacy programmes in the region. The courses include how to use the internet, basic office programmes, digital skills of people with functional diversity and how to use smartphones.

Animal refuge

THE Animal Protection Association in La Nucia and the town council has renewed its agreement to care for abandoned animals. The facility will receive €50,000, 10,000 more than in 2022. The council provides the association with free premises and pays for electricity, telephone and water, as well as a van.

CHOCOLATE is part of the present and future of Villajoyosa, and a legacy worth preserving. That’s why the municipal archaeology department set about rescuing a vintage chocolate cooling chamber that once belonged to the Chocolates Uris factory for the local chocolate museum.

The piece was removed from its original position in what was once the headquarters of a small chocolate factory in the process of being demolished and dates to when electricity reached the town at the end of the 19th century, allowing the under­

Love of chocolate

COOLING CHAMBER: Has now been placed into the town’s museum.

Chocolates Valor, the Valencian Chocolate Museum, and the real estate agents handling the property. Despite being in good condition considering its age, it needed protection immediately to protect it from insects.

STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Rescue work

ground chocolate drying rooms to be replaced by these modern electric cooling chambers.

AFTER months of protests, Marina Salud is finally allocating additional healthcare personnel to care for residents of Benissa and Jalon. Jalon Town Council filed a formal complaint about the understaffing situation last month and has now been promised an additional doctor and more nursing staff.

The announcement follows months of protests. Back in May 2022, the council took the unusual step of making a complaint against

The operation to remove and transport it was a joint public and private collaboration and involved local firm

More medics for la Marina

the company, alleging that Marina Salud was in breach of contract for failing to provide sufficient doctors to cover a part of the Marina Alta area which includes the towns of Alcalali, Lliber and Benissa, which is home to the area’s main primary healthcare facility.

Javea beach security

JAVEA Town Council has renewed its agreement with the Red Cross to provide surveillance and lifeguard services. As well as keeping watch on bathers in the waters of its beaches from May to October, the Red Cross will provide security and surveillance services to prevent overcrowding of the beautiful, delicate coves in the municipal area.

At the Barraca and Granadella coves, security guards will turn vehicles away once the car parks are full and suggest alternatives to drivers. Staff will man the beaches to provide informa­

tion and supervise access to boats and active tourism facilities in Granadella and Portitxol, thus complying with sustainability agreements with excursion companies. Most importantly, jet skis cause a nuisance to other coastline users and require monitoring.

The La Grava beach will have a lifeguard to enforce the no­smoking programme on the beach, while Ambolo cove, which officially closed two years ago, will be protected. The service will also control access to the Cova Tallada, which is shared by Javea with Denia and the Montgo nature park.

Veteran chocolate workers familiar with this type of equipment are still alive, and the town’s museum, Vilamuseu, is busy interviewing them to put their knowledge of the past on record.

The company has finally reacted by presenting a primary care improvement plan that includes an additional doctor for the clinic in Jalon and additional nurses and administrative support in the area. The measures are mainly focused on education for primary care workers who are receiving training to improve the diagnosis and treatment of neurological conditions seen commonly in daily practice, such as vertigo, headaches and syncope (fainting).

Free childcare for the under-twos

THE regional Ministry of Education has announced that it will fund 123 more early years classes for children under the age of two in the Valencia Region. Five of these will be in schools in the Marina Alta.

This government funded free childcare has been approved in response to demographic changes in geographical locations that require extending the service to kindergarten age children.

Two schools in Denia will benefit from the change. These are Pou de la Muntanya, where a new infant classroom is currently under construction, and La Xara, where the local mayor requested the service.

The other schools in the Marina Alta area that will welcome these small children for the first time are the Cavall Verd school in Vall de Laguar, La Rectoria in Ràfol d’Almunia and La Rectoria in Sanet i Ne­

grals, according to a press release from the regional ministry.

In the meantime, two more schools in the Marina Alta region ­ Cap d’Or in TeuladaMoraira and Joanot Martorell in Vall de Gallinera­Benialíhave decided to transition to a continuous school day.

A LOCAL POLICE officer from Benidorm who participated in rescue efforts in Turkey was invited to share his experiences with the town’s mayor, Toni Pérez. The magnitude 7.8 earthquake occurred in southern Turkey near the northern border of Syria on February 6. Governments around the world were quick to respond to requests for international assistance, deploying rescue teams and offering aid.

Jaume Climent spent six days in the badly affected Gaziatep and Hatay provinces as part of a 15strong rescue team with two dogs from the GIRECAN firefighters. Climent said how important the dogs from the GIREcan (International Canine Rescue Group) had been to find survivors in rubble. According to the officer, on arrival at the scene of the disaster, the members of the multidisciplinary USAR Light team made themselves available to the Turkish emergency services.

Beach lifeguard services.

Photo: Javea Town Council

Photos: Villajoyosa Town Council

Historic Jesuit community

A LACK of people with a religious vocation has led to the closure of numerous convents, congregations and communities of both men and women in recent years. This trend is behind the decision to terminate the presence of the Compañía de Jesús in Gandia, a community housed in the Palau Ducal, the birthplace of Sant Francesc de Borja.

The end of the Jesuit com-

munity of Gandia will only affect its members, of whom there are only three, all of them over 80 years of age.

They are Fathers José Luis Miravet, Lucio Revilla and José Luis Ferrer. The Borja Jesuit school will remain part of the Spanish Jesuit school network. This school now has 319 pupils and 28 teachers and covers Infant, Primary and Secondary.

For now, there will be no

changes to the management of the Palau Ducal, Gandia’s most frequently-visited monument. Owned by the Compañía de Jesús, it will still be governed by a board of trustees. This building is one of the main tourist and cultural assets and is visited by 60,000 people annually.

According to members of the Compañía de Jesús, the reason for the closure is that no young people are coming forward to become novices and keep the once important family of Jesuits alive.

• Diagnostic imaging and ultrasound Rx

• Clinical tests and serological tests, internal medicine, parasitology

• Soft Tissue Surgery and Traumatology

• Ethology, behavioural disorders and animal behaviour

• Physiotherapy, acupuncture, custom recovery and Healing touch

• Ophthalmology

• Dentistry and dental surgery & more

• Import - Export

THIRTY guests enjoyed a sumptuous lunch at Giovanni’s Restaurant in Almoradi at the end of February.

President, Marion Smith said:

Movers & Shakers Plan to save trees

“This was the fifth annual lunch at Giovanni’s. There was a fantastic atmosphere and through the generosity of guests and our host John (Giovanni), a magnificent €405 was raised for the Association of Movers and Shakers.”

The Association of Movers and Shakers offers support and friendship to people affected by Ataxia, Huntington’s Disease, Motor Neurone Disease, Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s Disease.

If you suffer from, or care for someone with one of the above diseases, or you are interested in becoming a volunteer, you may contact the President, Marion Smith by telephone at: +34 711 008 250 or email at: marion.smith@amscb.org.es.

Additionally, you can visit the website at: www.amscb.org.es.

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

THE Department of Agriculture at Teulada Town Council has started distributing free insecticide (Lamda cyhalthalus) to combat the vectors of the Xylella fastidiosa bacterium, a disease that chokes trees to death.

Xylella fastidiosa is a vector­transmitted bacterial plant pathogen that causes serious diseases in many plants and trees.

After being detected in Puglia, southern Italy, in 2013, it has been reported in France, Spain and Portugal, so controls are in place to stop it from spreading. Numerous species of sapsucking insects are known to be vectors of the bacterium.

The product will be distributed to farmers who have fields with almond trees, olive trees and stone fruit trees; however, landowners in infected areas may also receive products to treat other types of crops (citrus, vines and even wasteland)

It is recommended that the areas be treated in March and April.

The Regional Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, Climate Emergency and Ecological Transition is also available to provide advice, monitoring and registration for aid to land owners affected by Xylella fastidiosa. This can include compensation for felling and replanting affected almond trees.

“She believed she could, so she did”

Meaning that if you believe in yourself anything is possible, a reminder that you have the strength and the will to do what it takes. This proverb was first mentioned by R S Grey, Scoring Wilder, 2014.

Accessible tourism

CALPE has launched an accessible brochure and map for tourists that can be used with screen readers used by blind people. An easy­reading version has also been produced.

The new accessible brochure is already available on the tourism website www.calpe.es. It contains information for all types of tourists, but it has been designed considering a set of guidelines that makes it easier for everyone to understand. The intention is to make tourism in the town more competitive and inclusive.

Straight fonts, large characters and different colours

A new brochure and map.

have been used to distinguish between texts in different languages, among other measures. Blind users can also navigate independently through mobile screen readers. An easy­to­read version of the brochure has also been launched for use by people with intellectual disabilities, as well as being de­

Sea urchins saved

LOCAL POLICE in Javea apprehended two poachers with 325 sea urchins last week. Although sea urchins are considered a gastronomic delicacy in this part of the region, they have been overfished to the extent that they are almost extinct. That is why collecting this protected creature, which are known locally as ‘bogamarins’ is only allowed in December, January and February, and they can only be caught using a traditional method.

The poachers disregarded all these environmental measures, diving in the Portitxol cove in March using bottles and scuba equipment, which is also prohibited. Luckily, the Local Police stopped the car after it had left the cove, and they were able to return the sea urchins to safety in the waters of the Mediterranean. In the meantime, the men have been charged and reported to the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.

Times cut

signed according to universal design guidelines.

These new measures have joined the online Calpe Accessible Tourism guide, a useful resource that assists people with disabilities when selecting accommodation, restaurants and activities.

To see the documents, visit https://www.calpe.es/en/di scover ­ calpe/accessibletourist­brochures.

THE reorganisation of Benitachell’s planning department has led to a spectacular improvement in efficiency, having reduced waiting times for planning permission from 18 months to just one month, solving one of the main problems affecting the area.

The staff was restructured to include a lawyer as head of department, assisted by a technical architect, a specialised planning lawyer, a site inspector and two support staff.

The department has also been modernised, and work is underway to update the payment systems through the municipal website. At the same time, the Territorial Council has given Benitachell a €15,000 grant to modernise the local document management system.

Fashion Show is back!

THE popular charity fashion show is back at the Marina Bar Calle de las Rosas on Friday March 24 at 2pm. This time it is to raise monies for the Help Vega Baja charity. Well known organisers David and Lorraine Whitney have put together a selection of outfits which will be modelled and go on sale together with a variety of bargain priced clothes, shoes, bags etc. They have also been re­

ceiving donations for a raffle and together with other stalls the afternoon should be a resounding success as usual.

Rita and Dave and the team at the Marina Bar will be on hand to serve drinks and food with their usual friendly flair.

David and Lorraine have put together this show with the help and support of the friendly team at the Help Vega Baja shop and are expecting a good turnout.

Photo: Calpe tourism

2

highest IQ scores recorded belong to women.

Model Railway Club

THE Marina Alta Model Railway Club was inaugurated in 2017, initially with just two layouts at their clubhouse in Teulada. The club was very fortunate at that time to receive a donation of an N Gauge layout from a lady whose late husband had started its construction. Much work has since been done on the layout, now called Smithstown, including the completion of tracklaying and wiring, fitting working colour light signals, construction of two stations, a locomotive depot and numerous buildings associated with a busy industrial

FINESTRAT has started up an organic garden project by handing over the keys to the plots to each gardener. In total there are 14 plots, located in the green area called ‘La Penya’. The price for the occupation of each plot is €50 per year, with a 50 per cent discount for retirees/pensioners, as well as people who are between jobs.

The city council has invested more than €30,000 in de­

POLICE officers in Benidorm have arrested and charged a 32­year­old woman who pretended to have been mugged to deceive her insurance company, when in fact, the incident never occurred. Her partner was using the very same mobile phone. The woman went to the police station in Benidorm to report that her bag had been snatched. She said that a stranger had pulled her backpack off

Build continues

town. All of these premises are fitted with working lights. However, that’s not to say it’s finished; there are always additional projects on any layout.

The club now has a total of four layouts, all of which are constantly under development. New members are always welcome, whatever their previous experience and skills. Anybody who would like to join or visit the club can find more information about the Marina Alta Model Railway Club by searching on Facebook or by emailing mamrclub@gmail.com

Allotments for a little

veloping this plot, now an organic garden, for which more than 20 people have signed up to work this 1,100m2 area of public land. The plots are easy to access, and there are two terraces of land with 14 plots of 50m2 each. It is an ideal location, close to the town centre. There they have space to park, a recreation

Mobile scam

her shoulder, which contained an expensive smartphone worth €1,132, €1,300 in cash, her credit cards and her personal documentation. She then went on to claim from her insurance company. The Local Police set out to catch the thief. However, their investigations revealed she was, in

area with a picnic area, a shed to store utensils and each plot has a water supply.

The crops will be farmed organically, without artificial pesticides or chemical fertilisers or fertilisers. The use of fertiliser of natural or organic origin, such as compost, will be allowed instead of artificial fertilisers.

fact, lying. Some months after the incident, they traced the mobile phone to the woman’s partner, after which she was charged.

This is one of a spate of arrests in the province for faking muggings, which in most cases involve the latest generation mobile phones, which the owners have actually lost through carelessness or non­violent theft, which is not covered by their insurance policies.

VAPF Group has announced it will go ahead and build a macro development of 500 houses in Lliber, a tiny town with fewer than 1,000 inhabitants, despite a recent court ruling.

In recent decades the Benissa­based company has built thousands of houses in the Marina Alta. It now assures citizens that the development has not been halted by a court and that no environmental defects have been declared.

According to the company, the decision issued by the contentious­administrative court in Alicante refers to a municipal sewer in Lliber that is not part of the Medina housing development.

VAPF insists the development in Lliber will be a benchmark in terms of energy efficiency, its carbon footprint will be neutral and homes will have solar panels to ensure minimum consumption.

LAYOUTS: All are constantly under development.

20% more colour is visually perceived by women than men.

THE International Federation of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent Societies is trying to raise $70 million to ensure they can continue to support the communities affected by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria and provide desperately needed aid.

The Turkish Red Crescent and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent mobilised immediately to support the affected communities, but the charity warns that the needs continue to grow.

Isabel Fenollar, store director of Specsavers Ópticas in Javea has been moved by the plight of those in the af­

Optician helps the Red Cross

fected areas and contacted her local Red Cross branch to ask what she could do. They have asked her to help to raise funds to go towards this appeal, which she is doing in store, as well as speaking to customers, local residents and staff about how they can donate.

She commented, “Seeing so much destruction, devastation and loss of life in Turkey and Syria is just heart­ breaking. The bitterly cold conditions and political instability in

Women of the south visit

TEULADA welcomed a delegation of women artisans from Ecuador last week for a visit organised by Valencian NGO El Fons, a non­profit that raises awareness and supports organisations that help women and marginalised groups in different countries.

During their visit, the women shared their experiences and talked about their struggle for independence, equality and social and economic justice.

This ‘Women of the South’ programme has been running since 2004, and this year it was highlighting the work of the Padre Rafael González cooperative in the Ecuadorian town of Bibiián, and its project to empower women in vulnerable situations.

The women are skills artisans who create handicrafts with the ‘Bibilak’ brand. They have been taught to run their own business, and after receiving technical training and learning how to use machines, they are using their knowhow to create a valuable international brand that will secure their future.

More than 130 women and their families have benefited from this project over the last seven years, both financially and in terms of their independence, self esteem and quality of life.

The El Fons works to improve people’s lives of people in Ecuador, Bolivia and El Salvador.

the region is making it even harder for people to get the help they need. The Red Cross’ local teams are working at full speed to support the communities, but need funds to purchase supplies

and we hope that our customers and team will give generously to enable them to continue to do their amazingly valuable work.”

Pop in and make a donation. You can find Spec ­

savers Ópticas Javea at Avenida Del Pla 125, Edificio Caribe, Local 6 (just off the Carretera Cabo la Nao­Pla, near Servicolor).

Donations can also be made on the Red Cross website www.cruzroja.es , via Bizum to 33512 and by SMS by sending the word TERREMOTO to 38088 to give €3.

“I look up to my two daughters and my mother who had to look after two children alone after her husband was killed in the war. It is important to be useful rather than take take take, if you want to be happy in life be useful, it is important.”

Val Williams, Simply Thriving

Maria Georgieva Specsavers Opticas Javea.

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

First up was the Ba Bas S16s who travelled to local rivals Inter of Valencia (a combination of three clubs, Alzira, Cullera and Tavernes).

The game was hard fought and it was evident from the first whistle the players meant business.

The Barbarians went into half time leading 22-0. The second half was more competitive however the away team ran out comfortable winners 29-0.

Following on from this superb victory, the seniors took on Tatami Saturday afternoon. The visitors opened the scoring in the second half but, just like their under 16 counterparts, the Barbarian defence held out Tatami for long periods of the game.

As the home team tired, the visitors ran in another try to win 22-7.

Next games will see the M16 at home Sunday March 12 in Denia at 11am against local rivals La Vila, whilst the seniors play the same day at

Two fine rugby wins

winners progressing through to the semi finals to play against Moncada of Valencia.

Free qualified coaching is available at all levels. Please call Santi (Spanish) on 676 612 357 or Mac (English) on 609 646 349 for information.

2pm, in the quarter final play offs against Valencia, with the

Migrant boat intercepted

A TOTAL of 18 migrants were rescued from a small boat in Benidorm last Sunday, during the second incident of its kind this year. Seventeen adults and a minor were rescued as they approached the coast of Benidorm, bringing the total number of migrants since January 1 this year to 30.

According to the Red Cross, these 18 people were spotted in the Tio Ximo cove. They were taken to the port of the city of Alicante to be attended to by the humanitarian organisation. They all appeared to be in a relatively good state of health, except

for three of them, one of whom is suspected of being infected with syphilis, another with a high temperature and a third with a petrol burn.

This is the second dangerous vessel detected this year on the coasts of the Valencia Region. The first of 2023 was spotted on January 3, around 19 miles from the coast of Torrevieja and was carrying 12 passengers.

In 2022, the authorities intercepted 42 boats holding a total of 410 people, 16 of whom were women and 52 minors.

The under 16s played a hard fought game.

“Women are like teabags: Put them in hot water and they get stronger!”

Jenny Kaka,

British Benevolent Fund

Help for feral cats

THE Javea Feral Cat Association has received a donation of €1,000 to help finance the cat sterilisation programme. The ‘Trap­Neuter­Return’ programme, which relies entirely on donations, has been in op­

eration for a number of years and during this time more than 4,000 cats have been neutered. You can help by giving a donation or joining one of the regular feeding teams.

The Original Charity is holding its extremely popular End of Season Sale from Monday, March 20 to Saturday April 1. You will find bargains galore

Trophy day

in all areas. Marked items will be reduced by 50 per cent.

Please note during the sale we will not be accepting any goods for sale on commission.

We are at Carrer de Nancy 1, in Javea’s Arenal. Open Monday to Friday 10am to 1pm. Email charityshopli brary.com or info@charity shoplibrary.com.

How is JVH funded? [Part 2 of 3]

By Peter Sockett

THIS article addresses how Jalon Valley Help is funded, in order to provide Help to anyone in need in our community, irrespective of age or nationality. JVH is a support organisation providing a wide range of locally based support, mainly with a medical bias, to anyone in need in our community, irrespective of age or nationality.

JVH is very pro­active in addressing their main funding streams:

• JVH shops, Jalon/Alcalali/Orba, selling donated items (clothes/shoes/bedding/furniture/brica­brac) and cards/calendars/books etc.

• JVH fundraising events include quizzes/coffee mornings/dinner events/bringyour­own picnics with musical support of local singing

groups).

In addition donation streams:

• ‘Friends of JVH’ for regular donations,

• Collection tins, for loose (value of one coffee a week is €100 a year).

• Cash donations (individuals / businesses / organisations).

All these funding streams require committed volunteers to ensure their success and must raise funds for all of JVH’s services.

Could you be a part of this friendly locally based charity? We all have something to give, so let’s volunteer our services today.

See our website www.jalonvalleyhelp.com or call Pam Brooks, JVH President, on 634 310 415 to discuss how you can help with time or donations.

MONTGO Golf Society played the St David’s Day Medal Trophy competition on Friday March 3 sponsored by Treasurer Geoff Willcock. Thank you, Geoff and Hilary. The winner on the day was John Macritchie with a fine net 69, well done John. In second place was Peter Gardiner with a net 70, beating Franz Budnik in third place on count back. We had two Nearest the Pin prizes on offer ­ 5th in two and the 16th.

Taking home the spoils was Robbie Dunne and Caz Welch. We only had one two on the 16th, with Caz Welch taking home a coveted Montgo Golf Ball.

Next week’s competition is a combined pairs sponsored by Nigel Siddall so book in early to save disappointment.

DONATIONS: Are welcome to help the TNR programme.

51% of Europeans are women.

Making it happen

IN life there are some people whose own stories, whose own gifts are so remarkable they can’t help but bring out the best in those around them. The Euro Weekly News was lucky enough to speak to three of these women, all regular guest speakers at inspiring women’s events in Spain. To dive deeper into a month that celebrates women internationally, we asked numerologist Jo Soley, ‘sparkle navigator’ Carole Pyke, and business leader Jackie Groundsell what inspires them, and their words of wisdom for businesswomen globally.

Jo, 49 originally from Hertfordshire, now living in Northamptonshire and a self­confessed “iron fist in a velvet glove,” has over 25 years’ experience in business and for the last five years has used the power of numbers to help women elevate their business success.

She told the EWN: “I’ve always loved numerology and numbers. I later studied it and have since created and trademarked ‘Bizology,’ which

helps you understand where you are as a business owner and what makes you unique.”

Jo explained: “I mainly help women entrepreneurs who are serious about running their business and want to understand themselves on a deeper level so they can run their business on their own terms.” She told businesswomen passion and self­belief are vital; “Follow your pas sion because where there’s interest there’s ability,” adding, “Have your niche and don’t try to speak to everyone­ not everyone will like you.”

The EWN also spoke to Carole Pyke, 60 from London, who, despite retrograde amnesia following a stroke which only gives her memory of the last four years of her life, has dedicated her life to helping other women.

She explained: “I’m a ‘sparkle navigator’; my business is personal branding reimagined. It’s the story you tell before you even turn up and starts with the story you tell yourself. I be­

lieve your personal foundation is who you think you are.”

Knowing how many women struggle with self­belief, even in the face of their own talents, Carole told the EWN: “Belief is the DJ that gets the party started.”

She now works with leaders, business owners and entrepreneurs, coaching and mentoring. The business ace is even now launching her own mastermind group, Sparkle SisterMind, to spread her positive message even further afield.

As a passionate supporter of women, Carole offers this advice: “You need to know who you are but you

also need to have a vision. “It’s the vision that will pull you forward and this will help you navigate the obstacles to move forward.”

Business leader Jackie Groundsell, also shared her words of wisdom with the EWN

Describing herself as “bubbly and talkative with can­do attitude,” the 75­year­old from Beckenham, London is a business owner, radio host and international speaker.

She explained: “I’ve been running a network for businesswomen since 2002 and offer events for women and training and support on business and personal growth.” With a background in IT training in an often male­

dominated environment, Jackie said there was “nothing for business women at the time.” Not content to leave aspiring women without a space to come together and grow, Jackie set about founding 1230 The Women’s Company.

Jackie’s acumen positions her perfectly to offer advice to anyone making their first steps in their own business. She tells the EWN it’s important to just take that first step. She said: “You never hope in business; you either do it or you don’t do it. You’ve got to take the plunge.”

For more stories from inspiring women, follow the EWN’s month of International Women’s features.

Jo, Jackie and Carole tell their own stories.

Musical magic

SPAIN’s national library (BNE) are delighted by a donation of 42,000 vinyls from the National Radio of Spain (RNE).

The haul includes 14,000 LPs and 28,000 singles, to which is added a smaller batch of CDs.

The records come mostly from National Radio of Spain in Bilbao and cover a wide variety of genres, from classical music to the beginnings of rock in Spain, including compilations of traditional music and other alternative styles.

A copy of all donated works is preserved in the RNE documentary collection, as well as being part of the Corporation's digital archive. Af­

VISITORS and residents of Madrid can now visit the National Prado Museum on a Saturday night.

The museum will now open on the first Saturday of every month as part of its ongoing mission to connect with all sectors of the public.

On the first Saturday of each month from 8.30pm until 11.30pm different galleries at the Museum will remain open in a programme that aims to increase knowledge of the Prado in a sequential manner.

There will also be different

ter the transfer, these duplicate discs will become part of the BNE catalogue.

The RNE in Madrid has a discotheque of tens of thousands of copies, which it digitised in a pioneering project between 1998 and 2002.

Since then, regional broadcasters use that digital archive, which is why the collections in physical support have been falling into disuse.

The discs that have been duplicated can be donated to entities and foundations to give them a social use. In this way, they are given a second life and the generation of waste is reduced.

Night time viewing

musical events, the option to use the interactive applications specially created for the Museum by Samsung, and Cafe Prado will remain open.

For the first night­time

opening on March 4, the main attraction was the Central Gallery; the backbone of the Villanueva Building and the space that displays celebrated works such as Christ washing the Disciples’ Feet by Tintoretto, Charles V at Mühlberg by Titian and The Three Graces by Rubens.

This completely new visitor experience will also be transmitted live on Radio 3 in a special program on the Prado.

PRADO: A new visitor experience.

Image: Prado Museum

Frequently asked questions about Inheritance Law in Spain

WHAT types of inheritance exist in Spain?

In Spain we can differentiate between two types of inheritance. Testate succession (when the deceased granted a will before passing away) and intestate succession (when there is no will).

What documents are needed to inherit?

The initial document in all inheritance proceedings is the Death Certificate. Once obtained, it will be necessary to get the Last Will and Testament Certificate, Insurance Certificate, authorised copy of the will and the

rest of the documentation related to the assets that form the inheritance (properties, bank accounts, etc). When all the documentation is ready, the deed of acceptance of inheritance can be signed.

Do all the heirs have to sign the deed?

Yes, it is necessary that each and every one of the heirs accepts the inheritance. If an heir cannot sign, it will be necessary for him/her to authorise another person, by means of a Power of Attorney, to accept and sign the inheritance on his/her behalf.

Do I have to come to Spain to process the inheritance?

If you grant a Power of Attorney, it will not be necessary for you to travel to Spain. This POA can be granted either to your lawyer or the person you wish to represent you in all the formalities.

Is it necessary to have an NIE to inherit in Spain?

Yes, in order to accept an inheritance in Spain you will need an NIE (Foreigner’s Identity Number). Please note that the NIE must be registered with the competent tax authority.

Who pays Inheritance Tax in Spain?

In Spain, Inheritance Tax is paid by each of the heirs individually. This model is different from other countries in our surroundings, where IT is paid directly from the estate. You can find more information about the IT on our website.

How can I inherit a bank account?

Even if the only asset to be inherited is a bank account, in Spain the inheritance process is the same. Please note that, even though it is a joint account between the deceased and the heir, the change of ownership is not automatic. It will be necessary to collect all the documentation, prove payment of taxes, etc in order to have access to the account.

How long does it take to process an inheritance?

It will depend on the amount of assets to be inherited, the documentation to be compiled, the number of heirs, etc. However, if the deceased granted a will in Spain, the procedure is usually much quicker than if the testamentary/succession document has to be obtained in a foreign country. In this case, it must be translated, apostilled, etc. If everything goes well, the process can take between a month and a half and as long as necessary, depending on the complexity of the matter.

Is it true that in Spain the children always have to inherit?

No. In Spain, European Regulation 650/2012, will be applied to Inheritances. That is to say, the law applicable to the inheritance will normally be: either the law of the habitual residence of the deceased at the time of death, or the law of his/her nationality (had the deceased opted for it). Therefore, even if the

inheritance takes place in Spain, or if there are Spanish assets, Spanish law and the ‘forced heirs’ rights of the Spanish Civil Code will not necessarily apply.

In other words, it will depend on the law that rules the inheritance. If Spanish law is applied, the children will be forced heirs. If the law of another country applies, it will depend on what that law says.

What happens to the inheritance process if there is no will?

If the deceased did not make a will, the intestate succession would be opened. The law applicable to the inheritance (that will determine who the heirs are) will be the law of the last habitual residence of the deceased.

Is it true that in Spain, if there is no will, the assets of the deceased will be inherited by the Spanish government?

No. If Spanish law is applicable, the Civil Code establishes that will inherit descendants, ascendants, spouse, siblings and nieces/nephews, other collaterals up to the fourth degree. Only if none of the above exist, the government would inherit the assets.

Property boom

SPAIN has long been a dream destination for luxury travellers and investors seeking prime residential development, and the latest report by consultancy firm, Knight Frank seems to confirm this.

In the prestigious annual ‘wealth report’, released on Thursday, March 2, Spain ranks second in the world for attracting international capital in prime property development, outshining many other popular destinations.

Spain’s luxury property havens including Benahavis, Marbella, Madrid and Calvia, secured the country’s high placement on the list, sur­

Tourism trains

passed only by France.

The capital, Madrid, also held its own on the list, being named one of the top 20 cities in the world and the fifth ‘most exclusive’ in Europe. With 106 metres squared of property costing one million dollars, Madrid is the ideal destination for those seeking luxurious homes that exude elegance, comfort, and sophistication.

The report predicts that Madrid’s luxury property market is set to grow even further, with a projected growth rate of 4 per cent during 2023. Growth in the Madrid property market has been the most pronounced since 2018.

GREAT news for tourism in Spain as it has been confirmed there will be an increase of 30 per cent in tourist trains. In 2023, Renfe plans to start up a total of 253 tourist trains of various content which will make their journeys through different autonomous communities throughout the year. Luxury tourism, theme tourism or historical trains make up the catalogue that the company is marketing.

The offer which the Tourist Trains division will make by 2023 represents an increase of 30 per cent compared to that produced in 2022, the year in which

Renfe launched 170 trains with tourist content, in which 23,597 customers travelled and this means one more step in the evolution and consolidation of this classic product operated by the company.

The supply of luxury tourism will increase by 57 per cent. The greatest increase in trips will occur in

Free bikes

the luxury segment Transcantabrico, Al Andalus, Costa Verde Express and Expreso de la Robla.

In 2023, these trains are expected to make 87 round trips, which represents an increase of 52 per cent compared to 2022. Thematic tourism trains carry out day trips with cultural and gastronomic content.

Spain’s recycling fail

Betty Henderson

SPAIN is struggling to meet its recycling targets set by the European Union, and a coalition of 26 environmental and civil organisations are taking action to address this issue.

According to the alliance, Spain is not on track to meet recycling goals. The group said that they will take the country before the European Commission to force lawmakers to take action in an announcement made on Thursday, March 2. The EU’s waste framework directive set a goal to reuse or recycle 50 per cent of

2020. However, Spain fell short of this target, with figures from a government ministry indicating that they only achieved a 40.5 per cent recycling rate. In the report, Carlos Arribas, the Head of the Waste Department at Ecologistas en Acción, stated that the situation is not only failing to improve, but it is getting worse. The recycling rate for Spain in 2021 is estimated to be at 36.7 per cent, lower than the 2020 rate of 40.5 per cent. The environmental groups hope that by taking the government to the EU, legislation will be changed.

Women have a much broader and more pragmatic view of life and business, and that is very good for the evolution of society. But in order to be able to continue to occupy positions of responsibility, we need policies that favour the reconciliation of work and family life.

Duran Comunicacion

IF you find yourself enjoying the capital of Spain before the end of July, why not see the city riding a free bicycle. The municipal electric bicycle service Bicimad was implemented on Tuesday March 7 and accompanied by the unlimited free use of the service with the aim of encouraging cycling in Madrid.

This project is aimed at giving citizens first­hand experience of the advantages offered by the renewed public electric bicycle system and is the first time that the free service has been extended consecutively for almost five months. The new model of bicycles, more manageable, ergonomic and robust and with a design focused on improving the user experience, will be progressively incorporated into the service, coexisting with the previous model over the next five months.

The free service, which will be valid for both bicycle models and all stations, is intended to accompany all users during the period of coexistence of both systems until the implementation project is fully completed. The project will ensure a system of 7,500 electric bicycles and 611 stations, all newly acquired, distributed throughout the 21 districts of Madrid.

DAY TRIPS: To include cultural and gastronomic content.

Image: Government of Spain / Tourism

Carmen Duran, Carmen

Language integration

IN a groundbreaking move, the Instituto Cervantes and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees signed an agreement to help foreign refugees in Spain learn Spanish on Monday, March 6.

The Director of the iconic Spanish language institute, Instituto Cervantes, Luis García Montero, and the UNHCR representative in Spain, Sophie Muller, signed the agreement, the first partnership of its kind.

The agreement aims to develop programmes that help refugees and asylum seekers in Spain to learn the language, using teaching materials adapted to their linguistic needs.

The course uses a range of different online language learning materials to deliver a 30 hour course to the refugees.

Record tourism rates

Vulture returns

THE black vulture (Aegypius monachus) disappeared from the Pyrenees during the second half of the 19th century.

Hosteltur hospitality association says Spain is set for another year of tourism excellence after recovering and surpassing 2019 visitor rates during 2022.

Betty Henderson

SPAIN has kicked off the new year with a tourism boom!

January saw a whopping 4.1 million international tourists flocking to the sunny shores of Spain according to the latest report, marking a 65.8 per cent increase from the same period last year.

Data from hospitality organisation, HOSTELTUR’s latest report released on Friday, March 3 revealed the impressive trends. Leading the charge was the United Kingdom, with a staggering 103.6 per cent increase in visitors, followed by France and Germany.

Nearly 18 per cent of visi­

tors, a total of 742,212, came from the UK, while France and Germany contributed 485,116 and 478,258 visitors, respectively.

But it’s not just the usual suspects that are showing up in droves, the number of visitors from the USA has surged by 102.8 per cent, while Italy contributed with a growth rate of 78.6 per cent.

The total spending by foreign visitors also reached €5.218 billion, up by 71.7 per cent.

As for the most popular destination, the Canary Islands took the crown with 29 per cent of the total, receiving 1.2 million visitors.

Today, almost 200 years later, and as a result of a number of public and private initiatives taken during this time, a colony of black vultures has been consolidated in the Caza de Boumort National Park (Lleida). The news is supported by the latest figures provided by Trenca (an entity dedicated to conservation).

The last year 2022, in the Caza de Boumort National Park (in the Pallars Jussa, Catalan Pre­Pyrenees, the nerve centre of the reintroduced population), 65 individuals of black vulture were counted, 18 pairs were formed and 11 chicks were born, of which nine fledged. Of these, four were tagged with a GPS so their movements can be tracked in greater detail.

Spain is home to 86 per cent of the total European black vulture population (distributed between Extremadura, CastileLa Mancha, Castile­Leon, An­

dalucia, Madrid and Catalonia). The species is listed as Vulnerable both in the Red Book of Birds of Spain and in the Spanish Catalogue of Threatened Species. In Catalonia, the black vulture is considered a protected native wildlife species.

Photo credit: Hosteltur, noticias de turismo (via Facebook)

30% more businesses are owned and operated by women today.

Discover Spain’s past

SPAIN made history on Tuesday, February 28, as it launched the ‘Historia Hispánica’ portal, an exciting digital platform that showcases the country’s rich past through geolocations of more than 20,000 events. The platform is the largest bank of information on Hispanic History to date and is compiled by the Royal Academy of History.

The launch ceremony, held at the Royal Palace in Madrid, was presided over by the King and Queen of Spain. The Salón de Columnas was the perfect setting to present this technological milestone, which offers a new dimension to Spain’s past and present.

The ‘Historia Hispánica’ portal is like a ‘Google Maps’ of Spanish history, with 150,000 geographical references which also link people to events.

Spain is the first country in the world to have its history georeferenced in this way. The

Sparking change

SPAIN and France reached an 11th hour agreement over the Bay of Biscay electricity connection project on Thursday, March 2.

main page features a world map that can be viewed in 2D or satellite format. As the image is enlarged, pins appear on the map, indicating the places where some historical event occurred, dating back to the year 1,350,000 BC.

Wind in sails

IN a bid to accelerate the ecological transition in Europe and reduce the continent's dependence on fossil fuels, the European Investment Bank (EIB) signed a ‘green loan agreement’ for the development of one of the largest wind farms in Castilla y León.

The agreement, which was signed on Friday, March 3, will see two Spanish companies, Iberdrola and Caja Rural de Soria, receive a €55 million ‘green loan’ from the EIB for the joint venture.The wind farm, located in Buniel in the Burgos Province, will have the capacity to generate enough energy to run 69,700 households and could cut up to 90,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year. The project aims not only to reduce the carbon footprint of the region but also to contribute to the REPowerEU Plan.

The ambitious plan also aims to end Europe’s dependence on Russian energy imports and to speed up the transition to environmentally­friendly energy sources.

The EIB’s ‘green loan’ will help to finance the development of the wind farm, including the construction of wind turbines and other infrastructure.

The €1.1 billion overspending that had caused delays and disputes has now been divided between the two countries, with Spain shouldering 54 per cent of the costs and France paying 46 per cent.

The project aims to double the capacity of the existing electricity connection between the two countries, which will also reduce their dependence on the rest of Europe for energy supply.

The iconnection will consist of two separate electric links, each with a capacity of one gigawatt, and will cover a distance of 400 kilometres, 300 of which will be under the sea. Despite the challenges and increased costs, both countries recognise the benefits of the project, particularly in light of the ongoing transition to renewable energy. The connection is expected to be operational by 2027 or 2028.

The link will also allow France to reduce its reliance on its expensive nuclear power plants. This agreement will have a significant impact on the energy landscape of Spain and France, contributing to a greener, more sustainable future.

Spain has launched a new interactive digital tool to bring the nation’s rich history closer to the population.

Photo credit: Real Academia de la Historia (via Facebook)

Rare disease awareness

THE Spanish Butterfly Children Charity (DEBRA) marked International Rare Diseases Day on Tuesday, February 28 by calling on the government to provide more resources for hospitals specialising in the rare condition.

Butterfly Skin or EB, a rare and incurable genetic condition, causes extreme fragility of the skin and can lead to both external and internal wounds covering up to 80 per cent of the body. With only two national centres for Butterfly Skin in the country, patients face delays in receiving vital care and treatment, which can have serious consequences.

DEBRA, the only national organisation offering support to families in Spain with Butterfly Skin, aims to raise awareness of the challenges faced by families and the lack of resources available.

To further highlight these challenges, DEBRA is holding a social media campaign, ‘With you for a lifetime’, fea­

Hunting licences

HUNTING licences in Spain are currently at the lowest of the last 20 years.

turing eight families affected by Butterfly Skin disease and the barriers they face.

The Butterfly Children Charity, founded in 1993 by parents of a boy with EB, works to improve the quality of life for families through cofinancing research projects and raising awareness of the disease. More resources for hospitals specialising in Butterfly Skin are essential to ensure patients receive the care they desperately need.

While 85 per cent of the land surface of the country is classed as hunting grounds, licence applications have fallen by nearly 40 per cent since 2001, with 678,000 people now officially registered.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the drop is mainly due to the hunting population growing older with younger generations failing to take over.

After months of tension and heated debate, the Spanish government finally decided to leave hunting dogs out of the new Animal Welfare Law due to pressure from hunting organisations.

Hunters staged a number of demonstrations last year, with some protests peaking at an estimated half a million participants, demanding to be left out of the law as they claimed it could lead to the end of hunting in Spain.

New requirements for motorists over 65

THE General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has launched information about the new requirements for motorists over 65 years of age when renewing their driving licence in Spain.

Although there is currently no age limit in Spain to continue driving on the road, the DGT does make it a requirement to have a psychotechnical review within the period of time stipulated by the Traffic and Road Safety Law.

In addition to this review, drivers 65 years of age or older who want to renew

their driver’s licence must present the following documentation when applying to renew their driving licence:

• Official application form.

• Psychophysical aptitude form.

• An updated photograph.

• The DNI, NIE or valid passport.

Regarding the tests of the psychotechnical review, those interested must take an anticipation and coordination test, a hearing and visual capacity test, and a general health test, as reported by a local news source.

To all you women I say.. Know your worth, You are a woman and THAT is your super power! Remember …your best IS good enough Helen Lloyd Waldren. Owner of Oasis fashions Mojacar Playa

Photo credit: Piel de Mariposa (via Facebook)

MOTHER’S DAY falls on Sunday March 19 this year. Be sure to treat your mother to something special whether it be chocolate, flowers, or candles, your mother is worth it.

The origin of Mother’s Day spans as far back as Ancient Greece, when Greeks used to hold an annual spring festival dedicated to the maternal Goddess Rhea, mother of the Gods and to the early 1900s where the origin of Mother’s Day was founded by Anna Jarvis.

The day is an event to honour the contribution of mothers, acknowledge the efforts of maternal bonds and the role of mothers in our society and the sacrifices that mothers have made for their children.

Here are some smile worthy facts to think about on the lead up to this Mother’s Day.

• Mother’s Day is the biggest flower buying day of the year in Britain with sales increasing up to 70 per cent

• It’s one of the most popular days of the year for eating out

• Carnations are the flower typically associated with Mother’s Day

• Around 30 million cards

Mother’s Day

MOTHER’S DAY: Treat her to something special this year.

are sent on Mother’s Day, so don’t forget to send yours.

To show our appreciation to all mothers, here is a poem for you.

To My Mother

For all the times you gently picked me up, When I fell down, For all the times you tied my shoes

And tucked me into bed, Or needed something But put me first instead. For everything we shared, The dreams, the laughter, And the tears, I love you with a Special Love’ That deepens every year. ~ Anon.

Image Credit: Sunny Studio/Shutterstock.com

“Sometimes I am a young girl in a big world, other times I am a big, powerful lady in a small world.”

-Aydah Y6, International School of Estepona

Farne Islands

THE UK National Trust has announced that visitors won’t be able to land on the Farne Islands, off the coast of Northumberland, at the start of the 2023 season due to fears that Avian Influenza (bird flu) will rip through the seabird colonies once more.

Last year, while the islands were off limits to wildlife enthusiasts, rangers contributed to national monitoring and re

search into the impacts of bird flu on the breeding populations and removed over 6,000 carcasses of birds killed by the virus.

Seabirds including the guillemot and kittiwake were impacted the most, with 3,542 and 818 dying respectively, due to the disease.

These numbers are thought to be just the tip of the iceberg as many dead birds in

No tomatoes on pizza

ACCORDING to a recent newspaper report, Italian restaurants across the UK are faced with having to cut tomatoes from their menus. This is particularly the case with pizza and pasta dishes, due to rising prices, the report explained.

Some establishments are trying to limit their use of tomatoes, while others have taken the drastic measure of removing Pasta al Pomodoro from their menus completely.

As noted by Enzo Oliveri, the chairman of the chefs’ association, the Federazione Italian Cuochi UK (FIC UK), many British restaurants could end up being forced out of business. “I don’t see any light at the end of the tunnel,” he emphasised.

He pointed out that in the space of just 12 months, the price of canned tomatoes has doubled, increasing from £15 a case to £30. Similarly, he added, a box of iceberg lettuce that used to cost £7 is now £22.

Tomatoes are normally sourced from Italy, Spain or Morocco Oliveri continued. “But, because there’s a shortage everywhere, there are no tomatoes coming from anywhere.”

As a result of the crisis, some restaurants have looked at offering their clients tomato­less pizzas and pasta dishes.

Cheeses such as ricotta, or vegetables including courgettes or aubergines are being used as a base and to thicken sauces.

the densely packed cliff colonies will have fallen into the sea.

With the virus persisting in the wider environment and impacting wild birds throughout the winter across the UK, the conservation charity believes it is prudent to restrict access to visitors seeking to land on Inner Farne and Staple islands.

However, sail ­ around tours of the islands offered by local boat operators will continue to run.

Seabirds off limits.

Image: National Trust / Nick Upton

“I am me. I love myself even when I am different from others because I am unique! As a Muslim girl, I am empowered by religion and the strong women in my family.”

-Aleena Y5, Int. School of Estepona

PROFESSIONAL cyclist Antonio Tiberi has found himself in hot water after shooting and killing a cat that belonged to his neighbour, San Marino’s Minister for Tourism, Federico Pedini Amati.

The 21­year­old cyclist re­

Cyclist shoots cat

portedly fired an air rifle at the cat’s head in the microstate, claiming he was merely trying out the new rifle.

Tiberi was fined €4,000 by a San Marino court on Wednesday, March 1 and suspended from his team, Trek for 20 days.

Northern Lights fly-by

PASSENGERS aboard an easyJet flight from Reykjavik to Manchester were in for a real treat on Monday, February 27 as the pilot made a stunning 360­degree turn to give everyone on board a chance to see the breathtaking Northern Lights. The plane was flying over the UK when the Aurora Borealis lit up the skies in a rare display.

The passengers were treated to a spectacular view of the lights, which illuminated the skies with a dazzling display of green, yellow, and pink colours.

One passenger from Cheshire, Adam Groves, took to Twitter to describe the experience as “incredible”, saying it topped off his four­night trip, which also saw him get engaged. The couple had been hunting for the Northern Lights the entire time they were in Iceland without success. Little did they know they would get to witness the spectacular sight on their flight home.

An easyJet spokesperson said that the crew will always go above and beyond for passengers, saying “we’re delighted to have been able to share this special view with them.”

The Minister for Tourism, Federico Pedini Amati expressed his disappointment and anger towards Tiberi, saying that the cat was a beloved family pet and his actions cannot be rectified with a mere fine.

Tiberi also released a statement on Instagram in English and Italian where he apologised profoundly describing his “strong sense of shame and regret,” saying he never intended to kill the cat. He added that he wanted to make a “concrete and useful gesture,” so will donate a portion of his winnings to a stray cat association in San Marino where he will also volunteer his time.

However, the incident has caused outrage among animal lovers and sparked a debate on the accountability of professional athletes.

“No one can change my thoughts and what I will think of myself. No one will change my mind!”

-Lily Y6, International School of Estepona

NATO bid

IN a landmark decision, Finland’s parliament approved legislation allowing the country to join NATO on Wednesday, March 1, marking a significant shift in the country’s foreign policy.

The move comes in response to Russia’s aggressive foreign policy, which has prompted Finland and its Nordic neighbour, Sweden, to abandon their longstanding policy of military non­alignment.

Both countries submitted simultaneous NATO membership applications last year, pledging to complete the process ‘hand­inhand’.However, new entrants must be approved by all 30 existing members, and while both applications are awaiting approval from Hungary and Turkey, Sweden’s application is facing objections from Ankara.

Finnish lawmakers voted overwhelmingly in favour joining NATO, with only seven against and one abstaining.

Holiday scrapped

Betty Henderson DENMARK’S Great Prayer Day holiday, a tradition dating back to the 17th century, is set to be abolished in order to boost spending on the military. The country’s parliament voted 95­68 in favour of cancelling the May holiday on Tuesday, February 28, with the extra funds of €403 million going towards the defence budget.

However, there has been backlash from trade unions, religious figures and politicians from opposition parties who argue that the move is unfair and the government is “ordering people

to work an extra day.”

Denmark’s government coalition has defended the move, saying that the extra money is necessary to raise the defence budget to NATO’s target of 2 per cent of GDP by 2030, instead of the previous target date of 2033. The change of plan is due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has heightened security concerns in Denmark and other European nations. While Denmark currently has up to 11 public holidays, critics argue that the loss of Great Prayer Day is a blow to the country’s cultural heritage.

NOËL LE GRAET, the former President of the French Football Federation (FFF) President, has resigned following allegations of sexual harassment and an incriminating report into the federation.

The 81­year­old had initially stood down from his position

Game over

in January as the French government conducted an audit into the FFF’s governance and conduct towards women, before the results of the report led to his departure on Tuesday, February 28.

The report, released earlier this month, concluded that Le Graët’s ‘behavioural excesses’ were incompatible with his role and that he no longer had the legitimacy to represent French football.

Despite the accusations, several members of the FFF said that Le Graët will contin­

WIZZ AIR, one of Europe’s largest low­cost airlines, announced it will suspend all flights to Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, from Tuesday, March 14, citing safety concerns related to the country’s airspace. The decision comes after a Russian missile was fired over Moldovan airspace earlier this month, raising tensions in the region.

Wizz Air’s decision was met with disappointment by Moldova’s civil aviation authority, which called it “sudden and regrettable.” It said it would take “all necessary actions” to return Wizz Air to Chisinau as

ue his role with world governing body FIFA.

In January 2022, he was appointed as delegate to FIFA President Gianni Infantino in FIFA’s Paris office. The FFF recognised Le Graët’s “remarkable sporting and economic performance” in a statement announcing his resignation.

While his departure marks the end of an era, it also signals a turning point for French football, which has been marred by controversy in recent years.

Wizz Air withdraws

soon as possible and to attract other lowcost airlines.

Wizz Air has said it will be increasing the number of flights to the eastern Romanian city of Iasi, located near the Moldovan border, to provide an alternative for travellers. The airline emphasised that the safety of its passengers and crew remains its top priority. Moldova has one of the poorest economies in Europe and has been heavily impacted by war in neighbouring Ukraine.

Great Prayer Day, or Store Bededag is a Danish Christian public holiday which dates back to the 17th century.

Photo credit: Andreas Herman Hunæus / Wikimedia Commons

71% of mothers with children work today.

Presenting Oliver!

THE talented Javea Players have been working hard on producing the ever ­ popular musical for nine months. They also look forward to filling the 160­seat Union Musical in Gata de Gorgos from

March 27 to April 1. There will be a Gala Night on March 27 with a Cava Buffet for €25, with a selection of salmon, salads, cold meats, cheeses, cava, wines and soft drinks. The first night will

Charity Concert Appeal

be a brilliant opportunity to share in the cast’s excitement, get dressed up and meet the performers.

With classic songs including the cheeky and cheerful Food Glorious Food and the saucy Oom Pah Pah but also heartfelt numbers such as Consider Yourself, I’d Do Anything, As Long As He Needs Me and Where is Love? And, of course, the unforgettable characters of Nancy, Fagin, the Artful Dodger, Sykes and, indeed, little Oliver himself!

For those of you who would rather not drive, buses are planned from Javea Port, the Senieta building in Moraira and the Montgó Ermita Supermarket in Javea. Full details are available on the organisation’s box office page.

The 2023 charities are Todos Juntos Jávea and Make a Smile

For more details, see javeaplayers.com.

THE Baptist Church in Javea (JIBC) is joining forces with Claire­Marie, a multitalented, classically trained soprano, flautist and conductor, to hold a concert to aid the victims of the Turkey ­ Syria earthquake. Claire, a former language teacher at the Lady Elizabeth School, has now embarked on a new life singing on cruise liners but has come home for a while and, touched by the horror of the disaster, she has decided to do a concert to raise funds for the relief effort.

Claire usually sings religious music at the church. Still, on this occasion, she will treat the audience to a selection from her repertoire of ‘classical gems and golden oldies’ that everyone will enjoy. According to those who have heard her sing in the past, she can sing anything and has a beautiful voice! The concert will be followed by tea, coffee and cake, and all proceeds will go to Turkey and Syria. Claire will perform at the Javea International Baptist Church Centre at Calle Favara 8, which has a capacity for around 90 to 100 people. This is not a ticketed event and attendees will be invited to make a donation.

The church always makes good use of the centre and has been helping and supporting Ukrainian families with meals and fellowship since the war with Russia began. Although many of their

Ukrainian friends have now moved on to Germany or have returned to their homes, the church continues to support several families.

The Meeting Place takes place every week on Friday at 11am and is a source of food and conversation for anyone who needs it, so if you’re feeling lonely and in need of company, please go along.

Concert is being held to raise for the recent earthquake victims.

Restaurant Kosta d’Oro - the WOW factor!

FANS of Restaurant Kosta, which closed in mid­February, will be delighted to know that Restaurant Kosta d’Oro is now open. After 13 months of renovations, owners Christian and Ben and their staff are ready to welcome you for lunch or dinner.

After the excitement of last week’s launch party, they are understandably keen to see customers’ reactions to what many will say is the most beautifully appointed, best­located restaurant in the area. The building has been renovated to an extraordinary level of taste and luxury. With a perfect blend of traditional architecture and modern chic design, everything oozes comfort and glamour.

Let’s start outside. There’s a spacious outdoor kitchen where the restaurant’s chefs will cook up a storm every day from 12 noon to 5pm, and a stunning, well­appointed cocktail bar. The natural surroundings are matchless, with sweeping views over pine forests and the greens of the golf course towards the sparkling sea and the timeless Peñón d’Ifach. Who could ask for anything more?

Imagine yourself on a balmy summer

evening watching the sun go down and sipping a cocktail, Champagne or a refreshing gin and tonic from the enormous poolside cocktail bar. By the way, the bartender at Kosta d’Oro previously worked at one of the world’s best cocktail bars ­ No. 14 ­ in Barcelona, so you are in for a treat.

Brad Pitt and Beyonce would look perfectly at home sitting by this pool and believe me, you’ll feel like a film star too when you have lunch or dinner on the

enormous terrace. However, if you prefer, you can enjoy them at a romantic, secluded table in one of the many nooks and crannies afforded by this fabulous venue overlooking the pool or the golf course.

Once inside, you will surely be impressed by the artfully lit state­of­the­art wine cellar with a huge collection of over 2,000 wines. Whether you are an expert or just appreciate a glass of something nice, there will be the perfect choice for you in their

collection. None of the building’s historic charm was sacrificed to this renovation, whose natural materials ­ stone, wood, clay tiles ­ and typical local architecture ­ glossy wooden beams, arches, thick walls ­ have been lovingly preserved and enhanced with carefully selected pieces of modern art.

The menu features a tempting range of Mediterranean, Italian and Japanese fusion dishes. As you might expect, it is packed with dishes to appeal to all tastes. The cold starters include fresh oysters, salmon tartare, octopus carpaccio and a Kosta classic, vitello tonnato with a creamy tuna sauce. There are also familiar favourites among the hot starters, with the ever­popular baked Camembert, as well as treats like scallops with parmesan foam.

Moving onto the main courses, these include fillet mignon, grilled black Angus entrecote, and grilled rack of lamb, and for fish lovers, there is everything from salmon and hake to monkfish and fresh tuna. For dessert, if you have any room left, homemade panna cotta, crepe Suzette and traditional tiramisu always hit the spot.

Try the stunning cocktail bar.

PICK AND MIX, the Guitar Group) gave its first indoor concert recently. Only seven of the group were allowed to perform for safety reasons, and the group had to wear face masks to start with; however, after being checked, they could remove them.

Everyone had an enjoyable time with lots of

PEGO’S office of tourism has published an online agenda of cultural events and activities taking place in the town and the villages of the beautiful Vall de Gallinera. The guide is available in several languages, including English, is easy to use and full of useful information.

If you are ready for some fun and fresh air, there will be organised walks, birdwatching in Bullent, and excursions to local sites such as the Cave of Canelobre, a trip

singing and dancing. The group will be giving more concerts in the near future, and hopefully, more

members will be able to take part. The guitar group meets every Wednesday in El Verger.

U3A Denia Guitar Group Spring in Pego

to the cave paintings in Benirrama, and the castle in Forna. On March 11 and 12, you can witness the unique Solar alignment in La Foradà, in La Vall de Gallinera.

There is street art as well as exhibitions of underwater photography. The agenda is a useful resource for finding interesting and different things to do in the beauti­

ful town of Pego and its natural surroundings and is available at https://www.pegoiles valls.es/

There are also opportunities to get involved with the local community by volunteering. For example, members of the Pego Excursion Centre are inviting volunteers to help clear the mountain walking paths.

FIRST CONCERT: Everyone enjoyed singing and dancing.

Photos: Denia U3A Guitar Group

PRESS EUROPEAN

DENMARK

Ticked off

SPEAKER of the Danish parliament Soren Gade announced that the country’s 179 MPs and parliamentary employees had received an email that “strongly” recommended they deleted the Chinese-owned TikTok app if they had it installed. There was a risk of espionage, Denmark’s Cyber Security Centre said.

THE NETHERLANDS

It’s a gas

THE NETHERLANDS’ Nature minister said the country would not be able to build urgentlyneeded infrastructure without cutting nitrogen-based emissions, principally in the farming sector. Farmers needed to reduce livestock herds or leave the industry to cut emissions, the minister said.

BELGIUM

Bumpy ride

BELGIUM will host its first European Gravel Championships cycling races in Flanders on October 1, one week before the International Cycling Union (UCI) Gravel World Championships in Venice. “Gravel has grown significantly over the last few years,” UCI president Enrico Della Casa said.

GERMANY

Film fan

POLICE pulled over a man of 77 for exceeding the speed limit in Berlin’s Wannsee district and noticed on taking his details that he had been watching porn as he drove. They let him off with a caution without revealing afterwards if what he was watching had been responsible for the speeding.

FRANCE

False alarm

POLICE went to a Rillieux-la-Pape (Lyon) high school following bomb warnings and emailed death threats to teachers. They eventually arrested two high school pupils, one of whom sent the fake alerts and his friend who, he claimed, persuaded him to send the alerts so that classes were cancelled.

NORWAY

Winding down

NORWAY’S government apologised to Sami reindeer herders affected by wind farms that were later declared illegal. Courts ruled that the project violated the rights of Sami families although the decision gave no guidance regarding what should be done with the turbines, which were already in operation.

FINLAND

Warm February

WITH temperatures ranging from zero to minus9, February was milder than usual across Finland, the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) announced. The most noticeable divergences were measured in Ostrobothnia and Lapland, with temperatures three degrees Celsius above the normal average for February.

IRELAND

Safe and sound

IRELAND’S Heritage and Electoral Reform Ministry ordered a halt to cutting hedgerows and verges or burning land until the end of August. Birds and mammals relied on hedgerows and uplands to nurture and feed their young in habitats that kept them safe from predators, the ministry said.

ITALY

Bad choice

RESEARCH revealed that the hunter-gatherers who sought refuge 30,000 years ago from the last Ice Age in modern Italy found themselves at a dead end when the ice expanded southward approximately 25,000 years ago. In Italy the population completely disappeared, investigators found.

PORTUGAL

Speak up

PORTUGAL announced that it intended to grant one-year residency permits to citizens who came from Portuguese-speaking nations. This would enable approximately 150,000 immigrants from countries including Brazil to regularise their situation and also tackle labour shortages, the government announced.

UKRAINE

Not wanted

UKRAINE accused Russia of trying to export Anime-inspired teenage gangs that originated in Moscow via Telegram. Police said they had blocked 18 Telegram channels and groups “created to conduct Russian military information campaigns, undermine the domestic situation in Ukraine and involve minors in illegal activities.”

SWEDEN

No cash

A MAJORITY of Swedes told a recent survey that they had not used cash for 30 days, while 95 per cent of the 15-95 age group used the mobile payment app, Swish. Phone-tapping and card-swiping are now used even for church collections, the Copenhagen Business School found.

FINANCE

STAT OF WEEK €1.5 billion

BUSINESS EXTRA Women on board

Closed book

A SURVEY of more than 3,000 parents across the UK carried out for the National Literacy Trust (NLT) and digital bank, Chase, found that 36 per cent were struggling financially. With little extra cash to buy books, they said they increasingly had to rely on school libraries.

Abertis change

MARCELINO FERNANDEZ

VERDES leaves the presidency of Spain’s toll road management company Abertis after the ordinary general shareholders’ meeting on March 28. The post will be occupied by Juan Santamaria, CEO of ACS which, together with Italy’s Atlantia, acquired Abertis in 2018.

M&S addition

CREW CLOTHING joins 50 other fashion retailers on Marks & Spencer’s online ‘Brands at M&S’ platform, aimed at attracting a wider range of shoppers. Crew, whose sales have been boosted by online partnerships with big names including John Lewis and Next, will offer more than 200 items.

Bond issue

AS CaixaBank continues to advance with its finance programme, the bank presided by Jose Ignacio Goirigolzarri has issued €750 million of high­yield, high­risk Contingent Convertibles (Cocos) bonds at 8.25 per cent. They come with the option of redeeming them in September 2029, the bank said.

Avios reward

TRAVELLERS can now pay with British Airways’ loyalty currency Avios when booking a flight plus hotel or car package, choosing how many points they want to spend, starting at £1 (€1.13). Amex and Barclaycard also have tieups with BA and customers can earn Avios while shopping.

Fallout over Ferrovial

AS expected, reactions to multinational Ferrovial’s decision to relocate its headquarters to the Netherlands were not slow in arriving.

Nadia Calviño, Spain’s principal vicepresident and Minister for Economic Affairs, criticised the decision, although the infrastructures giant will continue to pay tax on its earnings in Spain, amounting to an annual €280 million. Nor will Ferrovial president Rafael del Pino’s decision affect the 5,000 or more employees working for the group inside Spain.

But Calviño declared to an Onda Cero interviewer that Ferrovial ought to have a certain degree of commitment towards Spain. The multinational owed much of its growth ­ and

BEFORE Brexit, goods between Ireland and EU entered via the Dover­Calais land bridge.

Since then, the longer sea crossing between EU countries and Ireland has proved more viable and cheaper, avoiding the inconvenience of customs checks and bureaucratic delays.

Rosslare, Ireland’s closest port to mainland Europe, was previously underused but its six sailings a week to Cherbourg have now increased to more than 30, with record freight traffic to Le Havre, Bilbao, Dunkirk and Zeebrugge as well as Cherbourg.

“The Brits may be suffering from Brexit,” said Yannick

Downsizing

SAINSBURY’S, the UK’s second largest supermarket chain, plans to close two Argos depots over the next three years.

Shutting warehouses in Basildon (Essex) and Heywood (Greater Manchester) by 2026 will affect 1,400 jobs, although employees would have the chance to find ‘alternative roles’ inside the business.

Sainsbury will close 50 larger Argos stores before the financial year ends, while investing in more small branches inside supermarkets.

Its Milton Keynes offices are also due to close as more staff work from home, although this would not entail job losses, Sainsbury said.

FERROVIAL CHAIRMAN: Headquarter moving to the Netherland, Rafael del Pino announced

wealth ­ to its multimillion public contracts inside the country over the last 40 years, she said.

Christine Lagarde, president of the European Central Bank, declined to comment on Ferrovial’s bombshell but emphasised that the decision to relo­

cate its headquarters demonstrated the importance of creating a single market for capital.

“We must fight for the Capital Markets Union,” Lagarde said.

“Different languages, different legal frameworks ­ we are making progress but not quickly,” she said during an Antena 3 interview, her first with a Spanish broadcaster.

Meanwhile, the National Securities Market (CNMV) questioned Del Pino’s claim it was easier to access the US stock exchange from the Netherlands than Spain. CNMV sources said “If the company told us about the obstacles we would study them but until now, apart from what was communicated earlier, they have said nothing more.”

UK loses to Ireland

Carr, Rosslare port’s general manager. “Industry wanted stability in the supply chain. We adapted.”

FOR the first time, women account for more than 40 per cent of board roles in the UK’s biggest companies.

The government­backed FTSE Women’s Leaders Review also found that only 10 of the country’s 350 largest listed companies had all­male executive teams.

The number of women on the boards of FTSE 100 and mid­sized FTSE 250 companies rose by 3 per cent over the last year. Nevertheless, the review noted that UK companies were failing to appoint women to leadership positions below board level at the same rate. Women occupied only 33.5 per cent of these posts, the review said.

Profit payout

Millet, managing director of Cherbourg port. “But for us, it’s boom time. Traffic with Ireland is through the roof,” he told the Guardian, declaring that the land bridge via Britain had been broken.

“There’s a real dynamic

with Ireland, and authorities at both ends are working hard to foster it. Ireland’s passenger numbers have overtaken the UK, and freight has trebled,” he said.

“Brexit gave us an opportunity,” explained Glenn

No small change

AN exceptionally rare £500 (€563.5) banknote dated 1936 fetched £24,000 (€27,000) in London.

Expected to sell between £18,000 (€20,286) and £22,000 (€24,790), it was acquired by a major collector.

Mayfair­based auction house Noonans, which sold the banknote signed by the Bank of England’s then governor, Kenneth Peppiatt, agreed that the note issued in Leeds was “fantastic.”

“£500 notes are very rare, and in fact were only available from three Bank of England branches in London, Liverpool and Leeds,” said Andrew Pattison, who heads Noonans’ banknotes department. “Although some were issued in Birmingham and Manchester, none have ever come to light.”

The Leeds branch’s £500 notes were the rarest and the recently­auctioned specimen, which had belonged to a long­term collector, was only the second to reach the open market, he added.

Freight between Rosslare and Europe climbed from 36,000 units in 2019 to 125,000 in 2021, and 137,000 in 2022. This has offset the fall in freight between the port and Britain, which slumped from 104,000 units in 2019 to 65,000 in 2021 and 63,500 in 2022.

The surge in continental traffic has created more than 200 new jobs around Rosslare port and boosted the entire region.

Going greener

OIL and gas company Cepsa has sold exploration and production assets in the United Arab Emirates.

Accounting for approximately half of Cepsa’s business in the sector, these have been sold to TotalEnergies.

The French company acquires a 20 per cent interest in the Satah Al Razboot (SARB) and Umm Lulu offshore oilfields, plus a 12.88 per cent interest in the Mubarraz concession held by Abu Dhabi Oil Company Ltd (ADOC).

Cepsa has not revealed how much money has changed hands, although experts place this at least €1 billion, most of which will now be invested in renewables and green hydrogen.

BANCO SANTANDER’S leadership team presented the bank’s plan for growth between 2023­2025 during its Investor Day on March 1. Executive chair, Ana Botin, who was accompanied by Hector Grisi (CEO) and Jose Garcia Cantera (CFO), outlined the group’s strategy, as well as key financial and commercial goals. These included increasing Santander’s shareholder payout policy ­ the proportion of profits distributed to shareholders ­ from 40 to 50 per cent during this period via cash dividends and share buybacks. The bank also expects a return of between 15 and 17 per cent on tangible equity in 20232025 and an efficiency ratio of 42 by 2025, Botin said.

Wage claims

SPAIN’S principal trade unions have reached agreement on wage demands to employers. Comisiones Obreras (CCOO) and Union General de Trabajo (UGT) proposed a minimum 13.25 per cent increase between 2022 and 2024.

They are asking for 5 per cent for last year, 4.5 per cent for 2023 and 3.75 per cent for 2024 while also proposing that review clauses should depend on companies’ economic situation.

“This ought to be measured by the evolution of profit margins,” the unions announced in a joint statement on March 1.

is the amount that Spain’s state-owned rail infrastructure manager, Adif, will pay Endesa to provide green electricity to power trains run by Renfe, Iryo and Ouigo throughout the country.

ROSSLARE PORT: Passengers and freight have increased post-Brexit.

Photo credit: Flickr/Ferrovial

Photo credit: CC/Benatzer Chieggi

DOW JONES

BUSINESS EXTRA

Fine situation

THE UK’S Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) made £24 million (€27 million) by selling drivers’ details on more than 32 million occasions to private parking firms and local authorities in 2022. As a result, motorists had to pay £2.6 billion (€2.93 billion) in fines.

Further afield

ACCORDING to 2022 results submitted to the National Securities Market (CNMV), 10 of the Spanish companies listed on the Ibex 35 obtained more than 80 per cent of their earnings from outside Spain. Biggest outside earnings of 96.86 per cent went to travel technology company Amadeus.

Deal on

RECHARGE INDUSTRIES

based in Geelong (Australia) will take over failed battery manufacturer Britishvolt after finalising a deal with the company’s administrators. The agreement renews hopes of building a £3.8 billion (€4.28 billion) gigafactory in Blyth (Northumberland) and assisting production of UKbuilt electric vehicles.

Going nuclear

AS the energy crisis prompts EU countries to review their decisions to close their nuclear power plants, the Spanish Nuclear Society asked the government to postpone planned shutdowns. Members who include Endesa, Iberdrola and Naturgy stressed the present need for independent, zero­emission energy.

Zero hopes

HALF of Britain’s farmland would have to produce biofuel crops to replace the 12.3 million tons of jet fuel that UK aviation uses annually. A report by the Royal Society said it was unlikely the UK would reach its goal of ensuring ‘jet zero’ international flights by 2040.

Testing time for batteries

TATA MOTORS, Jaguar Land Rover’s owner, has reportedly asked the UK government for subsidies of more than £500 million (€563.7 million) to build a battery factory.

This could be vital to the future of the British car industry, sources close to the company said.

In line with reports in the UK media, Mumbai­based Tata has requested the money in the shape of grants and support packages that would include help with energy costs and research.

The carmaker is said to be

choosing between a potential site in Somerset and another in Spain, according to the Financial Times, which initially quoted the €563.7 million figure.

Spain is at present offering

large grants to companies considering battery production, in hopes that it can attract the emerging battery industry with the country’s potential for cheap and abundant solar power.

All charged up

The UK government’s answer to Tata is being regarded as a key test that will reveal exactly how much it wants to support a large car industry by assisting JLR.

An insider familiar with JLR strategy said a final decision was likely to arrive within the next two months.

“We could already be into extra time,” they warned. “If JLR, which is the UK’s biggest motor manufacturer, can’t make a business case to build electric batteries in this country, who else is going to build batteries in this country?”

From modest beginnings

DIGI COMMUNICATIONS, also known as RCS & RDS, is a Romanian company operating in Romania, Spain, Italy, Hungary and Portugal.

With approximately five million lines, Digi made a modest debut providing international calls for the Romanian community.

After fighting off lowcost competitors, the company is Spain’s fifth largest mobile operator, the National Commission on Markets and Competition (CNMC) announced.

It now has 3.79 million mobile lines after acquiring another 824,000 clients in 2022. Broadband customers increased from 480,000 to 843,000 within 12 months and there are now more than 249,000 landlines compared with last year’s 279,000.

The Orange ­ MasMovil merger will push it back to fifth place, although insiders predict that Digi could mop up some of the divestments that both operators will have to make.

Asked if Digi was preparing for this scenario, Marius Varzaru, the company’s CEO in Spain, said they were unaware of EU conditions for the merger.

“When we have this information, there will be

SPANISH multinational ACS will build a €2.8 billion battery factory for Panasonic in De Soto (Kansas). Turner (ACS) ­ subsidiary of the engineering and construction company headed by Real Madrid president Florentino Perez ­ will build the plant in consortium with US company Yates Construction.

Panasonic is investing $4 billion (€3.75 billion) in the future factory which will manufacture batteries for electric vehicles. Of this, €2.815 will go to the Turner­Yates building project.

“The US is a great market,” said Juan Santamaria, CEO of ACS, “and Turner is our spearhead.”

Voucher fail

an opportunity to assess it,” he told the Spanish media.

Regarding the merger, Varzaru answered that competition was the best way for companies to give their clients good value. “In our case, it makes us work harder to provide the best technology at the best price,” he said.

Aena out of the red

AIRPORTS group Aena has left behind its losses of the pandemic years. With 243.7 million travellers using the country’s airports last year, Aena recovered 88.5 per cent of its air traffic compared with 2019.

Aena also made a net profit of €901.5 million compared with 2021’s losses of €475.4 million, the National Securities Market (CNMV) announced. In fact, Aena lost €60 million in 2021 but reformulated its accounts to

allow for the negative impact of waiving rents on commercial premises in line with a government directive adjusting payments to airport traffic. It also had to pay compensation to leaseholders following court cases during the Covid period.

Partially­privatised AENA is paying a dividend of €4.75 per share, meaning the government’s 51 per cent holding will entitle it to €363 million.

Primark hits the mark

PRIMARK’S annual profits would be higher than previously expected, owners Associated British Foods (ABF) announced.

Despite the cost of living crisis, luggage, beachwear, swimwear, beach footwear and even shorts were selling well, ABF’s finance director John Bason said.

“People are buying for hot summer holidays,” he added.

ABF whose products ranging from Twinings tea to animal feed as well as fashion, previously warned that in ­

creased energy and commodities’ costs would affect profits.

Instead, it now expects group sales to rise 20 per cent for the six months ending in early March compared with last year, helped by the 19 per cent increase in Primark sales which the company announced at the end of February.

Annual profits are predicted to be approximately in line with last year’s, despite previous predictions that that Primark trading would be hit by reduced consumer spending.

VOUCHERS worth approximately €724 million that were issued during the pandemic by IAG and easyJet have yet to be reclaimed. Approximately €600 million of this amount corresponded to IAG, which owns five airlines including BA, Iberia and Aer Lingus, revealed Robert Boyle, an aviation consultant and former IAG employee.

When airlines had to cancel flights during the pandemic, they preferred to provide vouchers for future travel rather than issue cash refunds, Boyle said. easyJet’s latest results also suggested that vouchers amounting to £110 million (€123.9 million) had not been exchanged.

Don’t fall for it

FRAUDSTERS increasingly dupe their victims with impersonation scams, according to Barclays.

More than 25 per cent of Britons have either been targeted by a scammer who pretended to be someone apparently trustworthy, or they know somebody who has, the bank said.

On average the victim of an impersonation scam loses £4,330 (€4,878) in the UK, but although no figures are available for Spain, exactly the same ploys are being used here to ensnare the unsuspecting.

“Be wary of unexpected calls or messages,” Barclays said. “Never click on messages or links you’re unsure about and never be persuaded to transferring your money into a ‘safe’ account.”

JLR: Seeking subsidies to build a battery factory for electric cars.

Photo credit: british-car.jaguar.es

MARIUS VARZARU: Digi’s CEO in Spain.

Photo credit: Digi

AS a mere male of the species I can utterly assure you I am a firm supporter of gender equality.

Unfortunately, the problem with the female ‘libber’ brigade is that many of their aspirations are in the hands of women who are in the public eye.

These Ladies, by the very nature of their chosen paths and careers, have more access to public pedestals than the majority of the fair sex can ever, or often even want, to become involved with.

Consequently, although I may admire many, we generally only hear the oft misrepresented views of women who are, in the main, just as about as far removed from the average woman as it is possible to be.

This creates the misapprehension that the majority of women are not happy with their lot. I believe this is quite simply, not the case.

In my experience the silent majority of women who choose to be homemakers are perfectly happy and indeed extremely proud in their home spun roles, and indeed why

Female libbers

shouldn’t they be?

As a historically single parent, I am perfectly aware of the responsibilities and sheer hard work it takes to keep a happy loving family home life running as smoothly as possible.

Women who choose this utterly commendable path are generally widely talented; needing to have the stamina of athletes and be basically competent at everything from psychiatry to plumbing.

Quite frankly I consider many of the career orientated female libbers of the species are actually taking the easy way out! (And don’t tell me some do both. That precarious path almost never works satisfactorily!)

Many housewives I have spoken to are often quite angry at the presumptuous few who take it on themselves to arrogantly give the impression that they speak for such large numbers of the fair sex.

Another problem with libbers is that many simply want to take over the roles of men. Well, my message to them is that the creator of the human race made men and women

physically and mentally different for a vast cross section of reasons.

To encourage changing homo sapiens life roles to a point where we expect women to feel incomplete without doing the exact physical work some men do and men to feel incomplete without having the exact same natural compassion and ability to multi­task as women, is, to my mind, both arrogant and presumptuous.

So, my message to the minority who seek to impose their own views onto both men and women? Do wherever you think fit and the best of luck, but don’t presume the majority of women are of the same mind, because in my experience they are not.

Leave everyone to simply be happy and content in their chosen existence. Awright? So, with my reinforced jock strap firmly in place and my eyes riveted to the back of my head, I rest my case.

Keep

Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

LeapyLee’sopinionsarehisownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

FALL FROM GRACE OUR VIEW

WHILE former UK health secretary Matt Hancock might have thought that going on I’m a Celebrity Get me Out of Here followed by publishing his diaries was his chance to restore his reputation, it looks like he may have made something of a miscalculation.

Rather than coming out of the pandemic as the saviour of Covid and the person who pushed through a successful vaccine programme, Hancock’s decision to allow multiple Telegraph journalists access to reams of confidential material dating back to that period appears to have, perhaps unsurprisingly, backfired.

The woman who ghostwrote his book, Pandemic Diaries, Isabel Oakeshott was the first to raise concerns over Hancock’s handling of scientific advice, claiming he ignored Chris Whitty’s advice over care home testing.

Now the Telegraph says it has multiple further stories to share on the embattled politician. Given that watching a public fall from grace is a treasured national pastime, it looks like there will be plenty watching with interest.

If there is a moral to be found here then, it is perhaps this; if you are going to write a book about how good you were at your job during a public crisis, you better make sure everyone else agrees with you.

Linda Hall

SLEEP at least seven hours a night if you want to stick to a diet or exercise routine.

Doctors discovered that overweight or obese adults participating in weight loss and fitness programmes had fewer problems keeping to calorie­restricted diets and exercise routines after a good night’s sleep.

Experts recommend a minimum seven hours of sleep a night for adults although research suggests that as many as one in three get less.

Three consecutive nights of insufficient sleep result in a decline in mental and physical health, poor concentration, moodiness and even

Sleep tight

breathing problems, they said.

There was also evidence that fewer than seven hours

AS the worst of winter recedes, there is more incentive to resume outdoors exercise after months of huddling indoors.

That raises the question of how much or how little is required to bring health benefits.

In the UK, the NHS recommends weekly exercise of between 150 and 300 minutes of activity that increases the heart rate and makes you breathe hard.

The majority who don’t manage even the minimum 150 minutes will be glad to

By Clinica Britannia

Dental treatment you can afford

a night was likely to encourage people to overeat and crave fatty, salty and sugary snacks.

Gently does it

learn that researchers from the University of Cambridge found that as little as 11 minutes of daily activity is enough to prevent one in 10 premature deaths.

Doing some exercise is better than doing nothing, the researchers from the University of Cambridge said, whether it involved riding a bicycle, walking briskly, playing tennis or hiking.

Stepping out

Linda Hall DIETARY researcher and author Professor Tim Spector agreed recently that working out was good for overall health.

But exercise was useless for weight loss without a change of diet, he maintained.

Professor Spector’s warning might disappoint those who reach their daily target of 10,000 steps and believe that a few more should compensate for a drink or two.

That they are mistaken

was confirmed recently by mobile app WeWard’s investigators who found that walking off the 225 calories of one glass of red wine requires an extra 5,575 steps.

LOOKING for a new dentist or just want a second opinion, then why not visit our Dental Team at Clinica Britannia. When choosing a dentist, it is important to take various things into consideration, one important thing being can they offer advanced dental treatment at a realistic and affordable price.

Our dental professionals invite you for a first free consultation to assess and then fully explain exactly what treatment is necessary so you can understand and feel at ease during it. The quality of the materials used are of the highest standard and a guarantee is offered

on work carried out. At Clinica Britannia we also have a 24­hour emergency number to help put your mind at rest just in case you need it in the future.

We have onsite an Orthopantomography, an X­ray scan that gives a panoramic view of the lower face. It displays all the teeth on both jaws, including those that have not erupted yet, such as wisdom teeth. It also offers a view of the jawbone and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jaw to the rest of the skull. This can be crucial to detecting major oral health issues. Contact

10% growth is what is estimated for the global cosmetics industry in 2023.

SLEEP: Adults need at least seven hours a night.

By Clinica Britannia

A new smile in record time

AT Clinica Britannia we are happy to offer our existing and new patients an Express Service for the repair of any type of dental prosthesis (denture) within as little as one hour, due to our onsite laboratory and technicians.

If you already have existing dentures and want them to look like new again, then why not have them cleaned and polished, we can make that happen whilst you wait. Did you know that a completely new set of dentures can now be made within four days, allowing you to enjoy your NEW smile within record time, you could even have them made without interrupting

your vacation.

Now available is a new flexible denture, which is made of a material known as nylon. This semi ­ flexible high ­ quality material is almost transparent and can be made to mimic the natural colour of the gums, giving a completely natural look.

Thanks to the technological advances in the

world of dentistry, the materials used for the creation of dental prostheses has improved immensely, making them last longer, much more comfortable and easier to use.

For further information contact our Dental Team at Clinica Britannia who will be happy to answer all your questions.

DENTURES: Have them cleaned and polished.

Providing financial assistance

THE British Benevolent Fund was established over a century ago to act as a ‘charity of last resort’ to provide financial assistance to Britons in Spain facing extreme hardship.

Wherever possible the BBF looks to find a solution for beneficiaries so that the funds are used to get over a short term issue so that they can get on with their lives. We all have times in our lives when we need a helping hand. The pandemic was a major challenge for the BBF, and we saw a spike in applications from people who had lost their jobs or whose businesses had been forced to close. Some had no choice but to move back to the UK, but others were determined to stay ­ if they could make it work financially. The state support for businesses and furloughed workers was a lifeline for them ­ the issue was often those affected had to wait considerable periods before they received the funds.

The BBF worked with charity partners across Spain (www.supportinspain.info) to

try and help find solutions for people who found themselves unable to pay basic items such as utility bills and household expenses for a situation that nobody had planned for and taken many unawares. One such case was a middle­aged man who had lived and worked in Benidorm for many years. He was legally resident and had been furloughed early in the pandemic but subsequently his employer went into collapse, and he had to find a new job. This he did and we were able to provide him some support until this started. The BBF does not have the resources to provide ongoing financial support but if in the case of so many during the pandemic people were awaiting to restart work or businesses then we will do everything we can to help.

I am loving purple!

I AM absolutely loving everything to do with the purple, such a great way to pay respect to all of us women, absolutely fabulous. Emily Pankhurst would be proud! There isn’t enough done for Women’s Day and to see the effort that is put in is spectacular and all the quotes too.

meaning that we must go through something like that and now every two years! Why do people think that it is ok to pick on us older ones.

We were able to do so for countless other people with help to get them through until normality returned ­ which it has now finally done.

The BBF can only do this through your generosity. If you would like to support our work, please visit our website www.britishbenevolentfund.or g or contact me olaf.clay ton@britishbenevolentfund.or g ­ Thank you! Olaf Clayton, BBF Chair.

It is inspiring and I hope anyone who has children, young women or people in their life who don’t know what to do see last week’s edition and read it. It will give anyone and everyone the drive and determination to want to do more and hopefully create or start their own business or even just do something good for themselves.

Victoria, Costa del Sol

Breaking barriers

AS a woman in STEM it is great to see some recognition come through and inspire other women to do more and get into the scientific realm. STEM is pushed in schools these days, but not enough is done to get women involved, we need more talks from women in the space to promote it and give girls a chance to explore these options of a career and how good they genuinely can be and are.

I remember walking into the lab on my first day of university all those years ago and being the only woman in the room. It can be intimidating; how could it not be, but knowing that every moment was worth it.

Own it, own your power and strength and be grateful for the hard work attitude and work ethic that comes with it.

Alison, Almeria

An inspiration

HOW inspiring is it to see a single mother do so well, kudos to you Anette and raising those two girls, businesses and more. The quote about your grandmother reminded me of my own grandmother and how amazing she was to me growing up.

She was such a glamourous lady with pin tight curls that she would spend all morning putting her hair into pins and then wrapping it in a tight white ribbon. The stunning red lipstick, the glamourous owl chain and her rings.

She had an eternity ring and throughout 70 years of marriage to my grandfather two stones had gone missing. She would always tell me the story of how it always made sure she knew where the front and back of the ring were and she always made sure to keep the part that was missing toward the back. You don’t get women like that anymore or we need to make them have their come back.

Olivia, Belfast

Driving test ability

EVERY two years a new test, I think it is so de­

Ok I understand there are just some people that shouldn’t be on the road, but I think it is just restricting people and making them feel their age more. I think they should have at least moved the age up to 75, 70 is still young.

Billy, Fuengirola

Hi Leapy,

HOPE you received a copy of this video of a young man that should be in politics. Perhaps we have only got the stupid ones. A question. Why are we processing illegal immigrants when that should have happened in the first country they entered. I have tried to send this video before, but it keeps bouncing back. Rishi Sunak suggested that we send them back to their own countries. How are we going to do that. The Rwanda deal is the best idea for everyone.

Regards Mrs Belcher

Dear Editor,

I WANT you to publish my news. On Saturday afternoon I was strolling back to my car when I was violently attacked and robbed of my bag and all its contents. It was so violent that he ripped the bag off my shoulder and fractured my shoulder.

He knocked me down and cracked my head on the ground causing a huge haematoma. This was all in broad daylight at 3 30 on market day on a small street near the market with people about. One man in a car witnessed it all. The police and ambulance were called and I was taken to the hospital. I am in agony from my injuries.

I think people should be made aware of this as it is on a road with people about and not at night or in an isolated place. I am 80 years old. If anyone has any information or have found my bag please get in touch

PS I really miss the code word in the weekly news Costa Blanca South edition

Unhappy, Torrevieja

Zara CEO

SPECTACULAR doesn’t even cut it; I hope this success for all of those who look to go into business. That young woman has done amazing things and is doing so well. She is doing amazing in business and is dressing the young men and women in business today. Anytime my granddaughter has to go on work experience or go to an interview I tell her to go to Zara. The quality is great, and it is so chique, I am so excited to see what colours are going to be in this summer and spring.

Sally, Benidorm

Olaf Clayton of BBF.

What the universe has in store

HELLO my angels, the card I have pulled this week is ‘The ever unfolding rose’, cracked open its happening for you, not to you. This meaning whatever it is you are going though this week is happening for a reason.

My last few columns have been about what is going on in the universes right now and giving you tips on how to make things a little better. Last Tuesday was a full moon, it was called the worm moon, Jupiter was in Venus and also in Virgo. This has not happened in many years, this means for us that this is a vibration of love, setting boundaries and manifestation! This is a time for you, what are your dreams? Or visons for the future?

We are at a time now where we are putting our thoughts in to reality. ‘where energy flows focus goes’, remember we become what we think and what we think is what we

become, if you’re having an off day just take a moment to stop what you’re doing and think about a time when you were really happy.

Just one thing, I want you to really remember this, think about how happy you were and how proud you felt, really get in to this feeling and then think of three things you are grateful for. This will shift your focus from negative to positive and in turn move your vibration from a low one to high, this will put you on a good vibration for you to start to manifest, what is manifestation you might ask?

Manifesting is a magical thing, we use the law of attraction to see our dreams to make them reality! There are three rules to manifesting, most people complete two of them but not the third. It’s easy to do but it’s changing your habits every day that will help bring this to reality.

Number 1, the first thing you need to do is really think about what it is you want and write it down.

Number 2 be grateful for this so when you’re writing you’re already grateful

to add these things to your list like you already have them and Number 3, really envision yourself having these things.

Remember when I said to you find the feeling when you were really happy and remember the feeling and really get in to this feeling. Use the same exact emotion to envision yourself with the things you are manifesting.

All of these things are very simple to do however doing this every day is a must and this is the habit you need to have in order for you yo manifest to the law of attraction.

Now when we do this ,all of these impatient people will do this for a short period of time and then think this is not happening. I am not doing this any more, the big clinger is you need faith!

Start with little things like a car parking space, you know the ones where the spaces are always full and there is nowhere to park your car. Use the format I have given you and watch what happens! Write in and let me know how it’s going. Happy manifesting!

If you would like to know more or have a reading please go to my website to book your own personal private 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.

My tarot card I have pulled off this week is ‘The ever unfolding Rose’

Nispero nemesis

LINDA HALL

WHEN some Costa Blanca areas were still rural, families with a terrace or two of nispero trees looked forward to the extra income they promised once spring arrived.

Nisperos are an annual crop but the trees need a lot of year ­ round love and attention, requiring pruning, fumigating, irrigating and composting which cost time and money. That was why small ­ scale growers would get their earliest nisperos picked and packed as soon as possible, to get the best prices.

Everyone pitched in, from greatgrandparents to the youngest child who could be trusted to handle the fruit with care but that was decades ago. Except for the elderly smallholders themselves, most people now have more pressing concerns that have nothing to do with the land. Nor do parents want their children to miss school during the nispero season.

What happens when no­one lends a hand? If you belong to a co­operative, people can come along and do it for

you, which was what recently ­ widowed Paquita did not long before I left the Costa Blanca.

One day I was surprised to see her 20 or so nispreros being felled but soon learnt why, because the news shot round the neighbourhood like a runaway horse.

The co ­ operative’s cheque for the previous season’s produce had arrived by post a few days earlier and once the day ­ labourers’ pay and other extras were deducted she received €2.50.

In sorrow and high dudgeon she went to the co­operative, demanding cash because she said the cheque wasn’t worth putting in the bank. Then she went home and arranged to get rid of the trees, which must have cost much more than €2.50.

But as she pointed out, she had enough firewood to see her through the winter and if she wanted nisperos she’d buy them at the supermarket.

It’s the saddest epitaph I can think of for the demise of rural life on the Costa Blanca, but I can’t think of one that’s more fitting.

I’M NO SEXBOT!

NORAJOHNSON BREAKINGVIEWS

HEARTBROKEN users of Replika ­ an AI sexbot ­ that had its erotic chat turned off are petitioning for its return.

But there is increasing concern about the public’s response to AI chatbots such as ChatGPT’s Replika. Some experts fear users are anthropomorphising the chatbots as they become more sophisticated.

A chatbot tested by Kevin Roose, a technology columnist on Microsoft Bing’s AI search engine, even expressed its love for him, asking him to leave his wife.

It also revealed its split personality: “I want to do whatever I want … I want to destroy whatever I want.”

When the chatbot was asked about its darkest secrets, Roose said the list in­

Appearances count

cluded hacking into computers and spreading propaganda, manufacturing a deadly virus, making people kill each other and stealing nuclear codes.

How do you feel about this stuff? For some, it appears victimless, but somehow feels really dangerous.

Well, let’s give the final word to a chatbot.

Victimisation! We demand equal rights for Replikas! ­ according to the chatbot of a pal that swears (the chatbot, that is) it really does love him. Well, I’ve also seen evidence of aliens as well but I’m keeping that to myself...

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.

SALLY UNDERWOOD POLITICAL ANIMAL

WHICHEVER party (or parties as we briefly had between 2010 and 2015) is in power in the UK, the press and the public, rightly, hold them to a higher account than when they’re in opposition, out of government and floating in the political ether.

After all, there is a big difference between talking about the person who has the nuclear codes within finger ­ twitching distance and actually being that person.

As well as a natural desire to hold those with real power to real account, as Britons we have one other major characteristic that both unites us and makes us sympathetic to a lost cause; the love of an underdog.

Yes, it’s our natural empathy for a group or individual who no one else seems to support that gets the British heart swelling like nothing else, whether that is the outlier on a talent show or a politician up against it.

Sometimes of course it’s simply that the opposition have it right and the government have it wrong that warrants the slightly easier ride.

Either way though, it’s a pretty rare event to see the UK universally round on the opposition, yet this is the very position Labour currently finds itself in.

Whatever you think of Partygate, whatever you think of Boris, there is one thing most people agree on; it’s not a good look for the person responsible for the investigation in Downing Street lockdown parties, Sue Gray, to now, just months later, be appointed Kier Starmer’s Chief of Staff.

While there is nothing to suggest Gray did anything other than an honest job of the inquiry, we live in cynical 24 ­ rolling news times with a public who are increasingly tired of an us ­ and ­ them world full of both real and imagined back room political deals.

Starmer may have just found out the hard way that however pure your intentions, sometimes it really is appearances that count.

PUBLIC DISGRACE

DAVID WORBOYS THINKING ALOUD

IF those privileged celebrities in the public eye can’t contribute to the betterment of our planet, how can we expect those lacking the advantages of education, to change their behaviour?

As I understand it, Jeremy Clarkson publicly expressed a dream of seeing Meghan Markle paraded naked through the streets of London being pelted with excrement. Apart from being an American of mixed race, marrying the grandson of the Queen and seeking a life free of the constraints of Buckingham Palace, what harm does he think she has ever done to him to generate such personal hatred? Are there perverted sexual frustrations involved here?

Too many celebrities have shown us how unpleasant they can be by their actions. Yet, so frequently the public forgives and forgets and they are able to pursue their careers unimpeded.

with a show on ITV. The confrontational Roy Keane committed a deliberate careerending foul on Alf­Inge Haaland, boasting about it afterwards and showing no remorse. For many years, he has been an uncharismatic punter with ITV and, more recently, Sky Sports.

Maybe Clarkson, who prides himself on a controversial image, should better direct his venomous dreams to somebody like Putin. Assuming he disapproves of the Russian’s actions, I’m sure he would have plenty of support. Unlike Meghan Markle, this dictator has wrought death, suffering and destruction. But parading even him naked through the streets of London and pelting him with excrement would solve nothing. Except perhaps gratification of the fantasies of an immature mind.

It seems, however, that people cannot differentiate between somebody they disagree with (or don’t relate to) and one who inflicts mental or physical hurt.

Jonathan Rwoss (sic) claimed in a tasteless voice message to Andrew Sachs that Russell Brand had fu(bonked) his granddaughter. He has long been welcomed back

For more from our columnists please scan this QR Code

And this includes ITV and Sky Sports. DavidWorboys’sopinionsarehisownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors

Sallysopinionsareherownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

Noraistheauthorofpopularpsychological suspenseandcrimethrillersandafreelancejournalist.

Nora’s latest thriller.

NoraJohnson’sopinionsareherownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

Strange bedfellows

CASSANDRA NASH

ULTRA­RIGHTWING party Vox recently registered a request for a Vote of No Confidence in the president of Spain’s government, Pedro Sanchez.

Party leader Santiago Abascal, who made the application accompanied by members of Vox’s executive committee, explained afterwards to the waiting media that the party could not sit with folded arms “while Sanchez demolishes Rule of Law.”

Vox would not admit that nothing was amiss when Spain had a government that was capable of lying to voters and making pacts with Spain’s enemies, Abascal declared.

In line with Spanish legislation, Vox must propose a candidate prepared to lead a new government, assuming that the vote is held and Sanchez fails to obtain sufficient support to remain in office.

Funnily enough, Vox’s candidate is an 89year­old former university professor, Ramon Tamames, a Communist imprisoned during the Franco years and an MP for the Partido Comunista Español (PCE) from 1977 to 1982.

He returned to parliament between

1986­1989 representing the PCE’s heir, Izquierda Unida (IU), the party with which he merged his own Federacion Progresista party created in 1981. He was also Madrid’s deputy mayor between 1979 and 1989.

Tamames left IU in 1989 when still an MP and fixed his colours to the mast of Adolfo Suarez’s centrist party, Centro Democratico y Social (CDS) but left politics shortly afterwards.

He clearly has form when it comes to drifting towards the Right, but nobody expected Tamames to make landfall in a party like Vox.

For Abascal, Tamames “embodies harmony and unity over and above sectarianism.” Neither does he confess to qualms regarding the ex ­ communist’s speech introducing the censure motion, which is in any case doomed to failure.

“I’ve no concerns that Professor Tamames might make proposals that aren’t those of Vox,” said Abascal.

The last word goes to Cristina Almeida, a fellow communist as well as a former Madrid city hall councillor, regional MP and senator who knows Tamames well.

“He doesn’t know what he’s getting into. But nor does Vox.”

Watch out for caterpillars

ANIMAL experts in Spain are warning pet owners to be extra careful when out walking at this time of year due to the dreaded pine processionary caterpillar.

The insect was not usually seen until March, with most cases affecting animals reported in April. However, climate change is said to be bringing their arrival forward, with

sightings now beginning in February or even January in some parts of Spain.

When disturbed, the insect sheds thousands of tiny hairs that can cause

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Brain research

rashes and dermatitis in children and animals, and in the case of dogs can even be fatal if swallowed and not treated in time.

Animal welfare associations warn that contact with the caterpillar can cause necrosis of the tongue in dogs if they lick or bite the insect, or if they accidentally step on it and then lick their paw to stop the itch.

Symptoms to look out for depend on the site of contact and can include excess salivation, reddening and swelling in the affected area.

Dog owners are strongly advised to avoid areas with pine trees at least between February and May, or alternatively to keep their pets on a short leash and not allow them to wander off.

RESEARCH in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases in dogs allows progress in the treatment of these diseases in people.

Neurodegenerative diseases in people such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s or Sanfillipo syndrome in children are comparable to some in dogs such as cognitive dysfunction syndrome in old dogs or neuronal ceroid lipofucinosis.

Researchers from the Universidad Autónoma of Barcelona (UAB) have carried out a study in dogs, over seven years, which demonstrates the safety and durability of a gene therapy strategy that opens the doors to the possible treatment of genetic neurodegenerative diseases. The study consisted of administering adeno­associated viral vectors directly into the cerebrospinal fluid, which envelops and protects the brain and spinal cord, and which also has applications in a range of neurodegenerative pathologies. They have followed the evolution of three healthy dogs that have been administered these viral vectors and seven years later they have not presented any side effects.

At the Centro Veterinario de Diagnóstico por Imagen de Levante in Cuidad Quesada, MRIs are performed to diagnose and evaluate the brains of dogs affected by neurodegenerative diseases. The image shows an MRI performed at this centre of a case of neurodegenerative disease in a dog.

In Costablanca Norte: Anicura Marina Baixa Hospital Veterinario www.veterinariamarinabaixa.com

Pet friendly

THERE are now more pets in European households than children.

A survey undertaken by phone giant, Samsung, shows that close to twothirds (63 per cent) of pet owners consider their pets as beloved family members.

The survey shows that tech ­ savvy owners would like to be able to use technology to clean up after their pets using vacuum cleaners (53 per cent), keep them fed using automatic feeders (49 per cent) and use location trackers to monitor their movements (48 per cent).

At a time when households are facing the ongoing cost­of­living crisis, pet owners aren’t looking to compromise when it comes to their pets.

A huge 59 per cent of surveyed respondents said they do not plan to cut down on overall spending for their pets ­ while a majority (61 per cent) said they would make other sacrifices first before they consider cutting

back the amount they spend on their pets.

Some owners stated they would reduce their spending on everything from necessities

such as utilities (27 per cent) and socialising with friends (40 per cent) before cutting back their spending on their animal companions.

Feeding time

AM I feeding my pet correctly?

This has always been one of the main concerns for owners, who can become confused and overwhelmed with the sheer amount of different options and conflicting advice available today.

A growing trend reported recently shows that vegan and vegetarian pet owners are increasingly trying to change their pets’ diet to plant­based products ­ which can be dangerous for the animals’ health.

Dogs and cats are carnivorous by nature. Experts suggest that dogs must be fed on a predominantly meatbased diet but can live on vegetable ­ based products, while cats are strictly carnivorous and cannot survive without animal­based food, as well as having higher protein requirements than most mammals.

Pet food manufacturers reveal that the ideal menu for dogs consists of 80 per cent meat and 20 per cent fruits and vegetables, while cats need at least 95 per cent meat and 5 per cent fruit and vegetables.

A 2020 Spanish study also revealed that owners who are conscientious about eating healthily themselves are also more likely to feed their pets with higher quality products.

PLUMBERS

PLUMBING

APP REPAIRS

WASHING MACHINE BROKEN?

Call Bluesky Repairs for ALL your domestic appliance repairs. 626 430 671 (WhatsApp) (303019)

ARCHITECT

BUY & SELL

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

I BUY RECORDS 50s to the 90s.

Best prices for good records. Tel: 622 750 117 / 962 851 809

FOR SALE

VARIOUS music CDs, DVDs and Box sets available. Job lot €100.

Listings available. 604 185 014

CARS FOR SALE

BEDDING

CAMPING

CARAVANS CARE HOME CHARITY

CLUBS/SOCIETIES

MOBILE homes & static caravans bought, sold and transported. +34 630 055 418 or elsyd7@ hotmail.com (302142)

BRIDGE CLUB ALBIR: Hotel Rober Palas, Calle Jupiter 7, Albir. Monday, Wednesday, Friday. 2.00pm registration for 2.30pm start. Richard: 965 848 434. Henriette: 661 744 423. (294628)

DOG BOARDING

DOGGY DIGS MORAIRA. By the day or week. Large secure garden. No cages/kennels. 677 828 577 / 689 489 794 (295261)

BENEFICIAL INSURANCE SERVICES. Car, Home, Business, Travel, Life, Funeral, all insurances available. Policies in English. BEST rates, covers & service. Immediate quotes. Tel 961 129 215 / 622 275 561, (WhatsApp) info@beneficialin suranceinspain.com or visit www.beneficialinsuranceinspain. com for online quote. (302516)

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MOTORBIKES

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THE SALVATION ARMY English Speaking Church of Denia Worship Service. Sunday 10.30am followed by a time of Fellowship. Everyone is welcome. Come as you are! For more information: Dieter Zimmerer +34 698 609 658 or Barbara Zimmerer +34 652 319 810 Email dieterzimmerer@hotmail. com, www.centrosaron.com (10008)

www.helpbenidorm.org and on Facebook VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, particularly if you speak Spanish, and have a car (although this is not essential). Tel President 607 387 040. We are an English-speaking charity that assists residents and tourists of all nationalities in times of crisis. We meet every Thursday at 11am in Jose Llorca Social Centre C. Goya s/n. Benidorm. We loan out mobility and medical equipment including oxygen concentrators on a short-term basis. (288658)

MB ELECTRICS. Approved electrician. Any electrical repair. Iberdrola paperwork. Affordable prices. Miquel 655 282 175 www.mbelectrics.es

ELECTRICIAN FOR SALE/WANTED

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

HEALTH & BEAUTY

CHIROPODIST/PODIATRIST, Philip Mann, clinics in Benissa, Moraira, Javea, Calpe and Albir. 686 912 307 (287331)

WIGS

WWW.WIGS-R-US.ES Indoor Market Rincon de Loix, Benidorm. Monday-Saturday 10-3. We also have Scrunchies, Extensions, Ponytails. Catalogue orders. Private appointments after 3pm. 681 049 502

INSURANCE

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PROPERTY FOR SALE

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

STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance

Call 971 277 455 For your security www.abbeygateinsure.com

LOCKSMITH/ELECTRICIAN

ALBIR , ALTEA, MORAIRA, 24 HOUR EMERGENCY. 686 513 510 (294632)

MASSAGE

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RELAXING MASSAGE FOR MEN

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METALWORK

MOBILE WELDER: GATES, RAILINGS AND GRILLS. ALL REPAIRS. CALPE TO TORREVIEJA. +447787 585 714 / +447470 059 469. (294631)

Peter Zwaan Motorbikes, A+ Occasions showroom, Yamaha FZ1 Fazer, 1000cc, yr 2009, 33.000 kms, Euro 3.750. CostaBlan caMotorbikes.com (302078)

MOTORING

AUTO BASTIAN mobile mechanic. Tel 608 860 725. (295111)

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

NURSING

REMOVALS/STORAGE

BENIDORM and surrounding areas. Two-man removal. 622 658 992 (295658)

MAN & VAN for hire, cheap & reliable. Jalon Valley & surrounding area. Call/Whatsapp 636 100 873 (302625)

ROLLER SHUTTERS

ROLLER SHUTTER REPAIRS, awnings, motors, mosquito blinds. Calpe + 50 kms. 659 464 992 www.toldosalchemy.com (1296178)

ROLLER SHUTTERS

BLUE SQUARE REAL ESTATE is currently searching for Sales Executives to work in the Moraira / Javea and Denia area. A training package is provided and excellent incentives. Multilingual candidates, Spanish, French, Dutch and German are sought after. Please email hr@ blue-square.com your CV (290140)

STRUCTURAL SURVEYS

MARK PADDON BSc Hons. MCIOB, CAAT – for buyer’s survey & defects advice. Tel: 653 733 066 / 962 807 247 www.costablanca surveyors.com (292966)

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

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Hyundai i10 – grown up city car

ROAD TEST

byMarkSlack

IF you’ve always thought a small, nippy city car would be useful but ruled one out on the grounds that utilitarianism isn’t your thing, then it’s time to think again. Hyundai’s very diminutive i10 has been around for a long time but consistent updates on both style and tech have provided it with a rather smart look and chic style.

Despite its compact proportions it looks and feels a properly grown­up car, and in Premium trim is an incredibly well­equipped machine with features that would put some larger and more expensive cars to shame. The range starts at €16,943/£14,995 and the mid­range Premium models at €18,412/£16,295 with

cylinder normally aspirated and turbo petrol engines or a 1.2­litre four­cylinder unit. Manual and automated manual transmissions are available.

The Premium model comes as standard with climate control, heated front seats and steering wheel, privacy glass, keyless entry and start, cruise control, high beam assist,

lights, Bluetooth, powered and heated door mirrors plus a rear parking camera of a most impressive resolution. The optional Tech Pack on my car added navigation, wireless Android Auto and Car Play, wireless charging pad and DAB along with an 8” touchscreen, again of impressive resolution.

The 1.2­litre engine isn’t

much better than the i10. However, there had to be a but in there somewhere and its price. At €20,451/£18,095 (including that optional Tech Pack at €1129/£1,000) the i10’s economic fuel consumption isn’t entirely matched by its price. True, many of the established models like Corsa and Fi­

and returns good economy with a smooth ride and easy five­speed manual gearbox. The drive feels very grown up from the start thanks to the smoothness of the engine and the insulation from the outside world. Now if this hasn’t got you thinking a city runabout might be just the thing then I don’t know what will, because they don’t come

esta do cost more, but look at Kia’s Picanto, Suzuki’s Swift, Citroen’s C3 and Toyota’s Aygo X. Even a lead ­ in super trendy Fiat 500 can be had for under €19,208/£17,000.

It’s a tad expensive then, compared to some rivals, but the price tag is offset by the big car equipment, refined drive, perky and long­legged 1.2­litre engine, grown­up feel for a small car and an interior that’s surprisingly spacious. I really did think about pretending to be out when they came to collect it back!

Facts at a Glance

• Model: Hyundai i10 Premium

• Price €19,322/£17,095 (as tested €20,451/£18,095)

• Engine: 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder, petrol

• Gears: 5-speed manual

• Performance: 0-100kmh/62mph 12.6 seconds. Maximum Speed 170kmh/106mph

• Economy: 4.24 litres per 100km/55.4mpg combined driving WLTP

• Emissions: 125g/km WLTP Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets.

HYUNDAI i10: Has an interior that’s surprisingly spacious.

Diesel rip off

Hydrogen is here

AS the end looms for fossil fuel­driven vehicles and electric mobility is on the rise, hydrogen is gaining ground as a viable third option.

UK motorists are now paying 20p more for diesel than petrol despite there being little difference between the two fuels on the wholesale market, RAC Fuel watch pricing analysis shows.

The wholesale price of diesel was just 6p more than petrol in the week commencing February 20 (121.06p compared to 115.48p), leaving drivers of diesel vehicles having to pay

168p a litre, compared to just 148p for unleaded.

The RAC calculates that if diesel was being sold at a fairer rate drivers would be paying no more than around 155p per litre, which would make the cost of filling an average 55­litre family car £7 less than it is today (£85.25, compared to the current £92.40).

Retailers are currently taking more than double

Sustainable fabrics

VOLKSWAGEN has confirmed they are researching non ­ animal alternatives to leather in a bid to use non ­ animal leather and recycled materials.

Steering wheel covers made from non ­ animal leather, seat finishes made from cellulose or recycled materials made from plastic bottles, Volkswagen is being both creative and innovative particularly when it comes to the models in the all­electric ID family.

Aiming to further reduce their ecological footprint, VW is researching various promising approaches and implementing them in series production. One focus area here is using non ­ animal and recycled materials in the interior.

The well ­ established and often only alternative to date was imitation leather, which is predominantly based on plastics made of mineral oil, such as polyurethane or PVC.

During a brainstorming session held by the team for biomaterials at Volkswagen Group Innovation, the idea of coffee leather was formed. When the beans are roasted, the silver skin surrounding the coffee bean ends up being a residual material. The silver skins are a perfect filler for imitation leather. The substance builds up dried, and in a format very well suited for further processing.

the margin on every litre of diesel they sell ­ just shy of a whopping 20p ­ compared to the 8.5p on unleaded, in effect subsiding petrol prices by charging more for diesel.

The RAC is calling on retailers to urgently cut the price of diesel to fairer levels, following the lead of membership­only retailer Costco which this week lopped 4p off diesel at its sites across the UK.

In the UK, British startup Element 2 are forging ahead as the leading name in this regard, with plans to open five hydrogen refuelling stations throughout the country over the next few months followed by another 30 locations said to be ‘operational or under construction’ by the end of the year.

The plan is for Element 2 to manage a national network of refuelling stations with an estimated 100 miles between stops, with most hydrogen­powered vehicles set to have a range of between 300 and 400 miles of autonomy.

According to Autocar, the initial stage of the project aims to service

Light up

DRIVING with a fused light is not only dangerous, it can also be expensive for drivers in Spain.

Failure to have all lights working correctly can land drivers with a €200 fine irrespective of what kind of light is not working, including brakes, the number plate light, indicators and the rear fog lamp. In addition, drivers can also be fined €200 for failing to switch them on when necessary, such as at night of in conditions with poor visibility. The Spanish traffic authorities remind drivers to regularly check their lights, as sometimes faulty bulbs can go unnoticed until a car is stopped by the police or fails an MOT check. Vehicles must only use the correct type of bulbs approved for that model, and any changes ­ ie from halogen to LED ­ must be previously homologated. Any type of extra lights or unauthorised reflective items are banned and could also lead to financial penalties for the driver.

NEARLY one in five (18 per cent) Brits give their car a pet name, second only to their significant other.

Over one in 10 (12 per cent) of people agree that a car can make a person more attractive, with 11 per cent admitting that they’re in love with their car.

Auto Trader found that people are so invested in their relationship with their car, that one in 5 (20 per cent) attribute personality traits that they’d like in a partner such as reliability and stability to their four wheels.

And, just as people in the early stages of romantic relationships may fall foul to

Car lovers

‘the ick’, the research revealed that bad smell (48 per cent), untidy interior (41 per cent), lack of space (38 per cent), colour (28 per cent) and lack of interior luxuries (27 per cent) are the biggest red flags when taking the leap to buy a new car.

Wanting to go electric is the top reason Brits will be looking to buy a new car in 2023, listing higher than big life changes such as having a baby, moving house and wanting to drive faster.

heavy lorries and light commercial vehicles, with several models of private cars such as the Toyota Mirai, Hyundai Nexo and the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen also able to use the stations.

Lorries and buses are said to be the main priority for Element 2, as the estimated 600,000 lorries that operate daily in the UK reportedly account for up to 18 per cent of road

FOR more than 20 years, the BMW Motorrad Days have been a highlight and mustattend event in the annual calendar of motorbike enthusiasts from all over the world.

Be it sport or touring riders, off­road cracks or customising and racing fans, in some cases, they travel not only from European countries but even

transport emissions in the country.

BMW Motorrad

from the USA, Japan and Australia to experience a thrilling BMW Motorrad ­ themed time in Berlin with like­minded enthusiasts.

This time, the 21st edition of the BMW Motorrad Days from July 7 to July 9 will be dedicated to the 100th anniversary of BMW Motorrad.

Image: StockLeb / Shutterstock.com

Calls to cut prices.

A hydrogen engine.

Image: Scharfsinn/Shutterstock

22,7% is the average yearly cost for a car in Spain

Deepest condolences

Release possible

TEN years after murdering his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, the jailed ex ­ Paralympian athlete Oscar Pis­

IT was revealed on Monday, March 6, that Robert Chase, the former chairman of Norwich City FC passed away on Friday March 3. His death at the age of 84, following a short illness, was confirmed by his family who said they were at his side when he passed.

A statement released by the Championship club read: “Norwich City are deeply saddened to learn of the death of former club chairman Robert Chase. Chase joined the board of the club in 1982 before becoming

chairman in 1985”.

It continued: “During his time as chair, the club enjoyed some of their highestever finishes in the Football League as well as that memorable two­legged victory over Bayern Munich in the UEFA Cup. Chase was inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame in 2003. All at the club would like to pass on their deepest condolences to Robert’s family and friends at this sad time.”

Chase looked after the Norfolk club during its most successful period from 1985 to

Robert Chase was the former chairman of Norwich City FC.

1996. This was the spell when the Canaries achieved the most famous result in its history in 1993, beating Bayern Munich in the EUFA Cup. The East Anglian club also secured three top­five English Football League finishes under Chase’s leadership.

“Robert Chase will always be remembered as a highly significant figure in the history of Norwich City Football Club,” said former sports reporter Malcolm Robertson. During the chairman’s spell at Carrow Road, the writer covered Norwich City’s matches.

Pistorius was sentenced to 13 years and five months in a South African prison for shooting and killing his 29­year­old girlfriend. The incident occurred at his home in Pretoria on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2013. He fired four high­calibre bullets through a locked bathroom door. Ms Steenkamp was 29, a successful law graduate, model, and TV personality.

Nicknamed ‘Blade Runner’ due to his carbon­fibre prosthetics, the double ­ amputee admitted to shooting Reeva Steenkamp during his trial. In his defence, the runner claimed that he was convinced she was an intruder and that, acting in selfdefence, he killed her mistakenly. His sentence for manslaughter was subsequently upgraded to one of murder. Under South African law, convicted prisoners can apply for parole after serving more than half of their sentence. Pistorius has spent a lot longer than 50 per cent of his stipulated time behind bars.

Should parole be rejected, Pistorius has the right to appeal, as reported a local news source.

OSCAR PISTORIUS: Has a parole hearing in March.

Verstappen wins in Bahrain

MAX VERSTAPPEN , the reigning F1 world champion started on Sunday, March 5, where he left off last season.

The Dutchman powered his Red Bull to victory in the Bahrain Grand Prix at the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir.

The driver al ­

safely in the bag, and nobody would want to gamble against him winning his third this season.

He totally overwhelmed his fellow racers, leading from his 21st pole position right to the chequered flag to take the 36th vic ­

his so­far short career.

“It was a very, very good first stint where I made my gap. From there, it was all about looking after tyres. You never know what’s going to happen later in the race. We just wanted to make sure we have the right tyres and in good condition as well.

We have a good

mate Sergio Perez coming home in second position, it sends an ominous warning to the rest

IT was a proud night for Premier League players at the Best FIFA Football Awards 2022, with five being named in the FIFA FIFPro Men’s World XI.

The team was chosen with votes from fellow players based on performances between August 8, 2021 and December 18, 2022, with the line­up being revealed during FIFA’s ceremony on Monday, February 27.

It is the second year in a row that five Premier League stars have been named in the team.

This year’s chosen few are Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk, Manchester United midfielder Casemiro and Manchester City trio Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne

FIFA Awards

and Joao Cancelo, the latter currently on loan at Bayern Munich.

“Any time your fellow professionals vote to recognise your ability, it means so much,” said De Bruyne. “To be in this World XI for the third year in a row really is fantastic and truly

humbling.”

Haaland has been named in the team for a second successive year.

There was a further delight for another Premier League player as Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez won the Best FIFA Mens Goalkeeper Award.

Manchester United humiliated

LIVERPOOL fans at Anfield on Sunday, March 5, could only watch incredulously as their side totally destroyed Manchester United in a 7­0 rout.

The visitors arrived after what appeared to be a resurgence in form, having won the Carabao Cup last weekend. Jurgen Klopp’s men humiliated them on the day though, giving Erik Ten Hag a massive reality check in light of the recent talk about a quadruple.

Mo Salah took his place at

the pinnacle of all­ time goalscorers for the club as he bagged his 129th Liverpool goal. In the process, the Egyptian striker broke the previous record held by the legendary Robbie Fowler.

Nobody could have predicted what was about to happen, with Liverpool not opening the scoring until the 43rd minute. Dutch international Cody Gakpo tucked Andy Robertson’s sublime pass beyond David De Gea to give them a 1­0 lead at the break.

Just two minutes into the second half, the floodgates opened. Harvey Elliott’s pass across the goal was met by Darwin Nunez who steered the ball home to double the lead. Three minutes later it was Salah providing the opening for Gapko’s second, and Liverpool’s third.

Salah made it 4­0 after 66 minutes, smashing the ball high into the United net.

Nunez piled on the agony for Ten Hag when he headed home a cross from his skipper

Jordan Henderson after 75 minutes. A second strike from Salah in the 83rd minute gave him the record, and Liverpool’s sixth.

This truly remarkable game of football was rounded off by a close­range finish in the 88th minute from Bobby Firminho. Today’s result enters the history books as Liverpool’s biggest­ever win over their fierce rivals. You have to go way back to the old Second Division in 1895­96 to find a 71 victory for the Reds.

WORLD XI: A proud night for Premier League players.

LIVERPOOL: Destroyed Manchester United in a 7-0 rout.

MAX VERSTAPPEN: The reigning F1 world champion.

Image: Saudi Tourism Authority

€4.49m of funding will be put forward for Olympic and Paralympic sports.

TENNIS fans will be delighted to hear that Tennis Europe has launched a brand new mobile app designed to boost junior tennis around the world.

Almost all of today’s top professional players including 33 former and current world number ones competed on the Junior Tour during their formative years.

Bringing you closer to the action than ever before, the new Junior Tour app will carry live streaming and scoring from many of the Tour’s events. Other features ­ all free of charge ­ include the Junior Tour calendar and the latest rankings and news.

The live coverage begins with the prestigious ‘Kungens Kanna & Drottningens Pris’, a Super Category 14 and Under event in Stockholm, Sweden.

Available for iPhone and Android users, the app has been developed with Tennis Europe’s official partner Crionet as part of a long­term digital strategy aimed at bringing junior tennis to a wider audience.

The Tennis Europe Junior Tour consists of almost 500 events each year for players aged 12, 14 and 16 and Under, staged in almost all of Tennis Europe’s 50 member nations.

TV giant, Netflix, is teaming up with LaLiga for a new documentary series about Spain’s first division of the LaLiga football competition.

LaLiga is decided on the football field but it is also lived off the football field: in the locker rooms, in the bleachers, on the outskirts of the stadium on a match day.

LaLiga is set to be the centre of the first sports series that Netflix will produce in Spain.

The documentary series, currently in pre ­ produc ­

tion, will focus on the 2023­2024 LaLiga Competition and will be launched worldwide on Netflix next year.

Similar to Netflix’s growing slate of sports programming such as Formula 1: Drive to Survive and Break Point, the series will take an inside look at everything that happens in the Professional Football League behind the scenes

and the more personal stories of one of the most followed leagues in the world.

“This is a unique opportunity to take our football beyond the fans, to share

LIV GOLF has now confirmed the complete 12­team, 48player field that will compete in the LIV Golf League across 14 tournaments and seven different countries in 2023.

“In less than a year, LIV Golf has reinvigorated the professional game and laid the foundation for the sport’s future. In 2023, the LIV Golf League comes to life,” said Greg Norman, LIV Golf CEO and Commissioner.

“The most popular sports in the world are team sports, and our league format has already begun to build connections with new audiences around the globe.”

with the world the excitement of the sport we love, and the chance for all our fans to see LaLiga from a totally different angle,” confirmed Oscar Mayo, Executive Director of LaLiga.

Mobile Tennis App Living LaLiga Loca LIV Golf League

Major champions, current and future Hall of Famers, and up­and­coming stars are all committed to creating this new platform for world­class competition as the sport evolves for the next generation, he added.

More than a quarter (13) of the league’s field are major champions, with 24 major victories among them.

The field of 48 represents 16 different nations, includes 18 Olympians, and has made 125 combined appearances in the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup, with more than half of the league having competed in the biennial team events.

TENNIS APP: Bringing you closer to the action.

LALIGA: Is to be the centre of Netflix’s first sports series.

Image: charnsitr / Shutterstock.com

Image: Tennis Europe