Costa Blanca North 16 – 22 March 2023 Issue 1967

START YOUR ENGINES!

SPAIN’S government has finally announced that UK licence holders in the country will be able to exchange their driving licence for a Spanish one without taking an exam from Thursday, March 16.

The period to allow Brits already living in Spain to do this will be six months. Anyone moving to the country after March 16 will also be given six months.

Announced by the Council of Ministers on Tuesday, March 14, the news puts an end to travel misery for thousands of expats left in limbo after the Spanish government abruptly brought extensions allowing anyone who hadn’t exchanged their licence before December 31, 2020 to continue using their UK licence to an end last May.

Brits will now be able to ‘canjear’ (exchange) their UK licence with the DGT for a Spanish one. Existing category permissions (for example, ability to drive heavy goods vehicles or motorbikes) will

also be honoured.

Spanish living in the UK will similarly be able to exchange their licences under the agreement.

The government’s statement said:

“The Council of Ministers has approved this Tuesday the agreement by which Spain and the United Kingdom will offer reciprocal recognition and exchange of driving licences as well as the exchange of information on traffic offences.”

The news means existing traffic of­

Easter week tourism

tTHE Costa Blanca tourism sector is expected to achieve more than 90 per cent occupation during Easter week, with 60 per cent of beds in Benidorm already sold by March 7.

The prospects for good weather in Spain and the recent freezing temperatures in other parts of Europe encourage holidaymakers to take the plunge and book a break in Spain. As far as the influx of domestic tourism is concerned, Easter week will be in April so holiday resorts will be at their busiest from April 6 to 9.

In the meantime, Gandia broke all records for tourist apartment and hotel occupation in 2022.

fence information will also be exchanged between the two countries.

Those wishing to exchange their licence can now contact the DGT directly to arrange an appointment to do so.

They will first need to check they have their relevant paperwork in order, including proof of residency, and take a short ‘psycho­physical’ test. This includes basic health tests (including eyesight, blood pressure) a psychological test and a mobility test.

The average occupation was above 70 per cent over 10 months, and the town expects the best summer of all time in 2023.

DRIVING LICENCE: UK holders can now exchange for a Spanish licence.

Credit: Yau Ming Low/Shutterstock.com

Something for everyone

MEMBERS of U3A Mari­

na Baixa have had another busy couple of weeks with more to look forward to this month. There will be Wine and Dine at Mister X on Friday March 31 and on the following day some will be taking part in La Nucia International Day.

By joining U3A Marina Baixa you could also be taking part in a range of activities and events as there are a variety of group activities taking place during the week.

At the monthly meeting in February all the money from the sale of raffle tickets on the day was used to help the victims of the Syrian earthquake and on March 6, formula milk to the value of €310 was purchased to feed the babies and small children urgently in need in Syria.

Doctors from the His ­

pano Syrian Association from Valencia, who work closely with the Syrian Embassy, assured the representatives from U3A that supplies would get through to the Syrian people.

If you would like to become a member, why not go along to their next monthly meeting on

Dholes come to Benidorm

TERRA NATURA Benidorm has just welcomed a new pair of dholes (Cuon alpinus) to form a breeding group of the species and contribute to its survival. The Asian wild dog, otherwise known as the dhole, is a dog and fox­related animal and a seriously endangered species with fewer than 2,500 of these creatures left in the wild.

The new additions to the park are a female called Dorinka, which has come from the zoo in Budapest in Hungary, and a male called Balta, which hails from Magdeburg in Germany.

Both these dholes are two years old, which means they are now adults and can reproduce. They are not the first dholes to take up residence in the park, and will be joining Kira, a six­year­old and Lennon, a 16­year­old. The vets at Terra Natura have started putting the animals together to encourage biodiversification through the reproduction of the species.

Dholes are very sociable creatures. They tend to live in forests, woods and meadows in Central and East Asia. They form groups to hunt and can overcome prey more than 10 times their weight.

From Freud to Hockney

Monday March 27 at 11.00am at the Casa de Cultura, Alfaz del Pi. Membership is only €10 for the year and gives you access to so many groups and activities and also the opportunity to make new friends.

They have a Facebook page where you can find out more.

THE next presentation for the Arts Society Marina Alta is on Thursday April 6 at Salones Canor Teulada. Doors open at 10.00am for registration and the presentation begins at 11.00am. Coffee is available prior to the lecture for members and guests.

John Iddon is a lecturer and guide at both Tate Britain and Tate Modern. He has run an MA course in Heritage Interpretation at St Mary’s University College.

John’s presentation is titled ‘From Freud to Hockney’.

Freud is possibly the greatest figure painter of the second half of the 20th century. We will look at some of his unforgettable paintings as well as delve into his relations with models and fellow artists including David Hockney. Britain’s two greatest living painters spent three months in each other's company.

For the benefit of all, members, guests and visitors, we offer a glass of wine or soft drink at the end of the lecture to allow socialising with the

group, Committee and the Speaker.

The sponsors for this presentation are Blevins Franks Wealth Management and Estate Agents, Inmobres of Calpe.

For details of membership opportunities please contact Maggie at mb.marinaalta@theartssoci ety.org or for more informa tion David at ch.marina alta@theartssociety.org

Find the Arts Society on our website : theartssociety.org/ marina­alta

GROUP ACTIVITIES: Give people lots to look forward to.

English exams

FOR the 10th consecutive year, the la Seu University in La Nucia will be the headquarters of the annual Cambridge English Exams in La Marina Baixa. People wanting to sit the Young Learners Exams (YLE) A2, B1, B2 y C1 should enrol at www.exams levante.com/la­nucia/.

Car chase

A SPECTACULAR Hollywood action­movie style car chase left onlookers stunned last week. It all started when a car driven by a 42­year­old German was detected speeding around the town endangering pedestrians. Five National Police officers were injured.

Delicious Denia

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC has shortlisted Denia among the candidates for Spain’s best gastronomic destinations. The prestigious publication is recognising the unstoppable development of the capital of the Marina Alta as a foodie’s paradise in recent years.

Lucky escape

FIREFIGHTERS from Benissa rescued a chihuahua from a blaze in a third­floor flat in Calpe last Friday evening. The fire broke out in the Eurosol building on Calle Santmaria. The flat was empty at the time and nobody was injured.

Drug bust

THE Guardia Civil arrested a 23­year­old Argentinian in Ondara last week. The man smelt strongly of marihuana, and when officers searched his vehicle, it contained three packages bound for Italy.

Women’s work

A LOCAL councillor in Benitatchell resigned after making chauvinistic comments on social media after the site of an old laundry was discovered in the town. Manuel Segarra had said that washing was for ‘women and idiots’.

Spick and span

SINCE 2022, Benitachell has been working hard to improve its solid waste processing, road cleaning and eco­park, landscaping , public building cleaning and environmental work. A total of €400,000 have been invested since the beginning of last year, much of it on new vehicles.

The previous equipment was very old, more than 15 years, and has now been replaced. At the end of last year, €151,000 were spent on a mechanical road sweeper to clean up the town cen­

ALTEA has just installed several lockable parking modules for bikes and scooters around the town to encourage sustainable mobility. The department for the environment in the town is committed to providing ways to make life easier for cyclists by improving security and safety.

The new short­stay bike parks can be used for up to 24 hours to keep scooters and bikes safe from wouldbe thieves and inclement weather,

tre, housing developments and some roads. This year, four new vehicles worth €186,000 have joined the fleet sweeper:

a tipper lorry with a crane (€62,920) and another with a hitch (€45,980) for the works and gardens brigade; an electric vehicle with tipper and pressure washer (€45,012) for street cleaning services, and a van for the works and gardens brigade (€32,500).

Fly tipping is being brought under control, Selective recycling containers have been installed in the town centre and pilot projects are underway in Les Fonts, Los Molinos and Racó de Nadal.

Safe cycles and scooters

however, the use of chains inside is still recommended. The modules are also equipped with chargers for electric bikes and scooters.

The facilities are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and are publicly owned and free, however, to be able to use them you must first register on the website www.bici.altea.es

Co-working in Teulada Moraira

STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Green Benidorm

BENIDORM has responded to a special call for Sustainable Tourism Plans with a project consisting of 16 major sustainability and digitalisation actions that will improve and modernise the town and its surroundings.

The facilities have been installed in strategic locations, such as close to the tram station in Garganes and the Bellaguarda Secondary School. In recent years, more than 100 bike parking spaces have been installed within the Altea Zero Emissions scheme, and more than five kilometres of cycling lanes have recently been opened.

Arts in Altea

THE demand for one­of­akind, handcrafted products is very much alive, and this year marks the 40th anniversary of Altea’s Craft Exhibition or Mostra d’Artesania 2023, a tradition in this arty town for Easter week and during the summertime.

from April 5 to 9 (Easter Week), from approximately 12.00 to 10.00pm and from July 1 to September 10 from 7pm to 00.30.

The Green Benidorm proposal is hoping to obtain €7.5 million from Next Generation Funds to finance projects to boost that will modernise tourism, improve the environmental aspects of the city to diversify the travel market, address the effects of climate change, organise the territory, improve quality of life, recover public spaces and make them available to people and improve everyday economic, environmental and social sustainability.

YOUNG entrepreneurs in Teulada Moraira will benefit from a new initiative to encourage co­working spaces for small businesses and independent entrepreneurs to get their work done and participate in the local business community.

The council wants to ensure that young entrepreneurs have the necessary equipment and provide an opportunity to work without interruption in a public space with free internet access.

The premises currently allocated to the project is Classroom 4 in the Espai La Senieta

building in Moraira, which has been chosen because it is immediately available. The council also intends to make improvements to a building in Teulada to be used as a second coworking space.

The project is designed to meet current needs in response to the need for new technologies and the trend for remote work, which requires at least a computer and an internet connection. But not all young people have the luxury of office space. From now on, this kind of service will be covered by the local authority.

This year there will be a series of in ­ person workshops to take place every Wednesday during the summer to celebrate this important milestone. The workshops will be an opportunity to learn from the artisans responsible for the stalls.

A total of 18 carefully selected craft stalls will take part in this year’s initiatives, displaying unique artistic, creative goods made skilfully with highquality raw materials such as wood, ceramic, precious metals, leather, and more.

The 40th edition of the Mostra will take place

The stalls have been selected from a total of 24 candidates by a jury made up of members of UNART ­ Union of Artisans of Altea ­ and municipal officials.

The projects will impact areas such as Moralet Park, also protecting the beach from climate change with a dune. Among the major initiatives will be the electric mobility plan for the town, new lighting and refurbishment of decorative lighting.

NEW VEHICLES: Improving cleaning.

Photo: Benitachell Town Council

Improvements to buildings.

Mother’s Day

UK Mother’s Day is this Sunday, March 19, so don’t forget the flowers, chocolates and extra goodies for your mothers this weekend. Mother’s Day takes place on the fourth Sunday of March, exactly three weeks before Easter Sunday.

In the UK a Mother’s Day tradition is that of baking a simnel cake, a light fruit cake with two layers of marzipan. As Mother’s Day falls in between lent this is known and represents a relaxation fasting rules tarditionally also known as Refreshment Sunday.

If you are unsure on what colours to wear this Sunday green is known to represent the protective nature of mothers, while yellow alludes to an optimistic outlook towards life for children.

Coincidentally the date

Food donation for Project4All

LOCAL Project4All has received a donation of food worth €300 from the Leukopolis Masonic Lodge no 85. Project4All (www.project4all.org) delivers hot meals to people who are homeless and in need on the Costa Blanca.

It is an all-inclusive, self-funded, non-profit organisation reliant entirely on donations. It is currently supporting around 100 people who have fallen on tough times. In 2022, 120 volunteers distributed 22,000 kg of food, 45 tents and 200 sleeping bags.

Big changes

for UK Mother’s Day this year is the same day as the Spanish Father’s Day. Spanish Mother’s Day is on May 7.

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

Project4All has a recovery house which shelters four men, and a women’s refuge which is currently helping three women. The recovery house serves as a stepping-stone to resuming a normal life.

These donations will be used by volunteers from Project4All to prepare, cook and distribute meals to those in need.

To volunteer between Javea and Calpe contact Soeten by WhatsApp on 643 737 584 or

between Calpe and Benidorm, contact Jonny on WhatsApp 643 476 773.

The organisation needs volunteer chefs, drivers, translators, medical professionals as well as people willing to do laundry or join the street team.

Little things mean a lot

LA NUCIA has restored the minigolf and pétanque zone on the Panorama Urbanisation, in Calle Argentina. The

improvements cost €20,000 and were undertaken in response to the residents of this part of La Nucia.

Meaning that the voice is an amazing gift, both a privilege and a responsibility that should be used. The origin of this proverb is unknown but can be dated to back to the time of Shakespeare’s Othello, The Speeches and Silences of Women.

New earth has been added to the two pétanque pitches and the edges have been renewed and painted. The minigolf course had fallen into disrepair over the years. The surface has been repaired and all the holes repainted.

The local authority has also cleared and cleaned the pine trees that give shade over these areas of the Panorama urbanisation and the fences and perimeter walls have been spruced up. This area is now in perfect condition and residents are welcome to go along to stroll, play minigolf, pétanque or tennis, and use the children’s playground.

THERE are big changes ahead for Denia’s museums following the approval of an ambitious project to move the contents of Archaeological Museum into the Casa de la Marquesa Valero de Palma in Carrer Cavallers and create an Interpretation Centre for the town in the castle. The centre will be installed in the premises occupied by the museum since July 1987 and will give visitors a general overview of a town whose history spans more than 2,000 years. The new museum projects have a budget of €287,000 and will be funded with a grant from the European Next Generation fund from the Transformation and Resilience Fund.

In response to a report from the Department of Culture and Heritage of the Government of Valencia, the current museum lacks space and security, so if the work is not done, the current facilities will have to close.

• 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

“A woman’s voice is meant to be heard, not silenced.”

73% of what a man earns is the average earned by women all over the world.

Photo: email that you sent me

FOOD DONATION: Supporting people in need.

Pick up the poop, or pay

CALPE Council has passed a resolution to purchase a piece of equipment to analyse dog mess and be able to locate the owners, who may face fines of up to €650. Pet owners in the town who do not pick up their dogs’ mess will need to rethink their habits or face the music.

Although they may not be spotted walking away from the mess, their unreasonable behaviour may catch up with them later.

The town council has approved, as part of a package of 52 actions worth €8 million to be funded by a surplus in the coffers, the purchase of a €61,704 device that analyses dog poop.

According to sources at the council, the equipment analyses pet faeces collected on public highways and, through the animal’s microchip, the identification of the offending owner, who will be fined.

The fine for not picking up dog poop in Calpe has been €650 since the most recent amendment to the Civic Coexistence ordinance was approved in October 2019.

Your vote counts

VOTING is now open for the Alicante Trade Awards in which more than 100 companies will compete.

Voting by the public is open until March 19.

All the companies that are candidates competing can be found and voted for in the vote for your favourite business section on the website https://premiosde comercio.alicante.es.

This year the city of Alicante has broken records with a whopping 110 companies from the hotel and catering, trade, crafts and services sectors registered to compete for the 17 awards with prizes valued at €35,000.

The councillor for Trade and Hospitality, Lidia Lopez, has been very pleased with the response to the campaign promoted by the city council to “boost and recognise our local trade and business sector, as well as to achieve greater excellence and competitiveness in business, rewarding both their daily work, effort, and professionalism in the city.”

The councillor confirmed: “Please vote. In this edition, the economic prizes have been reinstated to recognise professionals and companies in Alicante that contribute to making the city

more competitive and better, and with such important economic incentives to help them.”

Major road improvements

ALICANTE Provincial Council is investing more than €2 million in road improvements in the Teulada­Moraira and Benissa areas. The improvements include resurfacing works and the creation of cycling and pedestrian lines on the CV­745 and CV­746, among others.

Meanwhile, in the last four years, the CV­746 from Calpe to Moraira has been improved, with an investment of more than €435,000, the adaptation of the CV­749 Benissa to Jalon, with €160,000, and the improvement of the road surface of the CV750 from Jalon to Benissa, with €259,500. The road surface from Benissa to Senija will be improved, raised pedestrian crossings will be installed, and a new cycling­pedestrian lane from Benissa to Senija costing €160,000 is in the pipeline.

Last week, taking advantage of the low season, a stretch of the CV­746 from Moraira to Calpe was resurfaced, a pedestrian crossing was added, and a continuous double axis was installed to stop dangerous manoeuvres and turns. Finally, cylindrical beacons and reflectors have been provided.

Fundraising

THE Dames of Turre celebrated International Women’s Day on Wednesday March 8 with a lunch at Los Angeles restaurant in Turre. One of the aims of the club is to raise money for charity. As a result of their fundraising the ladies donated €1,000 to two local charities. The sum of €500 was presented to Vera Walsh who received the money on behalf of the Turre food bank. Vera informed us that they now have 123 families registered with them to receive weekly food parcels.

Another €500 was presented to Janet Franklin who received the money on behalf of Paws Patas, the animal sanctuary that is always working to rescue animals and place them in forever loving homes.

The ladies all enjoyed the afternoon and felt that their fundraising efforts are all worthwhile. The next club lunch will be held on April 25.

TRADE AWARDS: More than 100 companies will compete.

Image:

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

Mary Shelley

Help for victims

ON the occasion of international Women’s Day, Montse Villaverde, councillor for Equality, visited the Original Charity Shop to receive a donation of €1,000. The money will be used to support the town hall psychological support programme for victims of gender violence. Mrs Villaverde wished to thank the staff for all their hard work, resulting in many donations to local worthy causes.

AFTER two years of restrictions due to the Covid ­ 19 pandemic, Benidorm Council is awarding contracts to provide recreation and entertainment on the beaches for the next two years. There will be no time to get bored on the beach in Benidorm this year, with companies vying to offer their attractions to tourists for eight months this year. The entertainment will be available from March to November, except for the floating equipment, which

Craft market

The shop is situated on Calle Nancy in Javea’s Arenal. Our long awaited End of Season Sale begins on Monday, March 20 and until April 1 you can avail of the many bargains on offer. So don’t miss out on this opportunity to grab a bargain. From Monday, April 3 we look forward to accepting all your suitable Spring/Summer items for sale on commission. Please call 966 460 803 to make an appointment.

Beach bonanza

will be there from July to September.

Fun lovers will find everything from jet skis to banana boats and the chance to float over the sea in a parachute. If you don’t feel the need for speed, there will be pedal boats, kayaks with one or two spaces and as well as paddle surfboards, a growing trend.

As well as these individual

PREVIOUS articles have identified what JVH does and how it is funded.

To undertake these tasks, Jalon Valley Help relies on volunteers, giving some time to fulfil jobs on a rotational basis, one day each week. Most of the tasks are self­explanatory:

• Sorting donations, moving them to shops, weekly refreshing of on­rail items.

• Arranging displays at the shops, proactive sales support and cheerful encouraging word to those in need of a pick­me­up.

• Events management from identifying the event, the venue, the date and

activities, there will be group excursions on jet skis, for which the successful company will have to obtain permits from several authorities.

Two sets of inflatable floating play equipment will be located offshore, one on the Levante beach and one on the Poniente, which will be manned by three qualified lifeguards each.

How Can I Help JVH [Part 3 of 3]

the entertainers, organising ticket sales and management of the event.

• Support at the Animo Drop­In centre to meet and greet and to offer everyone welcome.

• Special skills in charity management, care to the community, managing shops and accounts, computer skills, or specialist in antiques, jewellry, art, furniture etc are always welcome.

OLIVA U3A is holding a market selling goods handcrafted by members and local charities on Saturday, March 23. The market, in the Pensionista opposite the Spar on the N332 from 10.30 to 12.30, will see everything from knitted garments to jewellery to cards and soaps on offer.

U3A President Barry said he is “looking forward to the market which promises to be bigger and better than ever before” adding that those who visit can even enjoy a wonderful menu of the day for just €10.00. The proceeds from a number of the stalls will be going to local charities. For further information contact Barry by email at president@u3aoliva.org or alternatively visit www.u3aoliva.org.

Now we are retired in Spain, isn’t it time we gave something back in life by supporting a local charity which provides help to anybody in need, irrespective of colour, creed or gender. We all have skills and we all could have time to give, once we make the decision and organise ourselves. Volunteering for this charity can be hugely rewarding whatever role we choose, working with some fantastic people and making new friends. So let’s volunteer our services today. See our website www.jalonvalley help.com or call Pam Brooks, JVH President, on 634 310 415 to discuss how you can help with time or donations.

€1,000 DONATION: Montse Villaverde accepted the cheque.

Barbarians Rugby

MIXED fortunes for the Barbarians club at the weekend with the under 16s losing at home on Saturday against a strong La Vila team, whilst the seniors won a gruelling match against Tatami of Valencia, which takes them into the 1st division semi final play offs. The S16s put on a great all round performance against the visitors but the visitors were just too strong on the day. It was a well fought close run game and with just a little more luck in the last 15 minutes, the home team could have grabbed a hard earned victory, but unfortunately it wasn't to be.

The seniors, on the other

Bound for Marbella 2023

hand, were victorious in an extremely physical hard fought game against Tata mi of Valencia in the play offs for the Division 1 championships. With both teams attack ing at will, the Ba Bas man aged to dig deep and score two fine tries in the final 20 minutes to run out 34­19 winners. They progress now to the semi finals to be played against Moncada on March 26 in Valencia. Free qualified coaching is available at all levels. Please call Santi (Spanish) on 676 612 357 or Mac (En glish) on 609 646 349 for more information.

gymnast Katya Trukhacheva is to Grand Kateryna, an infant category longing to Marines club is one lected by tics Federation to compete in dalucia Cup

Floral art demonstration

OUR next floral demonstration is on Thursday March 23 when we are delighted to be welcoming NAFAS national/international floral artist, Mr Michael Bowyer, MBE, as our guest demonstrator. The title of the demonstration is ‘Herald the Spring’.

Michael regularly organises Flower Festivals in Salisbury Cathedral. He was involved in ‘The Great British Village Show’, when he was one of the judges of the floral art competition.

The exhibits are raffled off at the end of the afternoon and some lucky winners will leave with a beautiful arrangement. Our flowers, as always, will be supplied by Antonio and Friends at PAICHI Garden Centre.

We meet at Salon de Actos, La Senieta, Moraira (free parking in the adjacent car park). Doors open at 2.15pm and the demonstration starts at 3pm. We will also be making a donation to Afa Alzheimer, Teulada.

Entrance for members is €7 and for visitors €10. This month we are offering free entrance to anyone who has not been to one of our demonstrations before.

Members are reminded our Annual General Meeting takes place at 12 noon that day.

For further information contact Pat on 622 921 812 or Christine on 602 246 546, visit our website www.marinaaltafloralclub.com or you can follow us on Facebook.

Marbella 2023. The talented youngster has been a member of the Elite Technification Plan of the Valencian Community for the last three years, a programme reserved for the

most outstanding gymnasts in the region. Athletes are not permitted to take part in international competitions until they are old enough to compete in the junior category, which is why she has not

been selected before. Even so, she is one year ahead of the minimum age, and although she is still an infant, she will now have the opportunity to compete with international junior gymnasts.

Photos Calpe Town Council

Glass recycling in Gandia

GANDIA Town Council has taken steps to promote the recycling of glass containers during the Fallas festivals this year. The initiative aims to raise awareness among the citizens of Gandia about the importance of correctly separating glass container waste during of the festivities.

To encourage responsible waste management, the Spanish non-profit glass recycling organisation Ecovidrio will be clearly labelling the glass disposal containers near the premises used for the festival.

At the same time, environmental educators will be visiting different organisations to inform them about the importance of recycling glass containers and the benefits that this brings to the environment and society.

The advantage of glass is that it is a resource rather than waste, so the Gandia fallas are an ideal opportunity to drive the recycling message home.

The initiative has the sup-

port of the Valencian government, which is keen to improve the sustainability of the festivities and make them more respectful of the environment through proper waste management of

Med colours

ONCE again, local associations and organisations will flood the streets of Calpe with art and colour. The Culture Department has finalised the rules for its Art al Carrer 2023 competition to decorate the streets of the historic quarter, the results of which will be an attraction for residents and visitors alike.

glass containers.

The campaign is very simple, and it does not involve any additional effort. No one will have to go more than 30 metres to find a glass container.

U3A Calpe ladies lunch

THIS month’s JUGS lunch was held at Porque No in Calpe town centre. Everyone enjoyed their choice from a delicious menu provided by the restaurant. The food was excellent and service impeccable. The JUGS group (just us girls) meets every second Thursday of the month to get together with new and old friends.

For more information please see U3A’s website at U3A Calpe.org or email jugslunch.u3acalpe@gmail.com

The competition is open to all associations and organisations registered in Calpe. The participants will be assigned a street or space to decorate in a random draw. The materials needed to create the art installation must be provided by the associations themselves. All the areas allocated will have similar characteristics, and they will all be in Calpe’s old town.

This year, the subject of the competition is ‘Colours of the Mediterranean’. The choice of materials is free on the condition that they can be removed without causing damage and will not cause a nuisance.

There will be €3,000 for the winner, €2,000 for the runner up and €1,000 for the thirdranked project.

GLASS RECYCLING: Containers will be labelled clearly.

Photo: Gandia Town Council

Determining and proving domicile

Domicile is an important issue for British expatriates. You remain liable to UK inheritance tax on your worldwide assets for as long as you are domiciled in the UK. While it can be possible to change your domicile, it depends on your circumstances and intentions and should be a carefully considered and planned process.

The basic rule is that a person is domiciled in the country in which they have their home permanently or indefinitely – the country you regard as your homeland – ‘the place where you intend to die’. You can live in Spain for years and remain domiciled in the UK.

Domicile and inheritance tax

Anyone deemed UK-domiciled is liable to 40% inheritance tax (IHT) on their worldwide assets. Each individual has a £325,000 nil rate band plus a £175,000 ‘family home allowance’ if they meet certain conditions. Any balance not used on the first death can be

By Brett Hanson, Senior Partner, Blevins Franks

partner.

While assets passed from one spouse/partner to another are generally not liable for IHT, this is only when both are UK domiciles. If this applies to you seek personalised advice.

Non-UK domiciles remain liable to IHT on UK assets.

Types of domicile

mon law ascribes a domicile of origin to every individual at birth. Generally the father’s domicile, or the mother’s if single.

Domicile of dependence – applies to women married before 1974, minors and legal dependents.

Domicile of choice – As HM Revenue & Customs explains, “any individual who has legal capacity can acquire a domicile of choice”.

To acquire a domicile of choice you must be physically present and tax resident in your new country and intend to live there permanently or indefinitely.

Since HMRC could look for indications you see Britain as your homeland and may return in future, you need to sever as many ties as possible. Electing for UK succession law to apply over Spanish succession law could also be a tipping point in combination with other UK ties.

In any case, HMRC may treat you as UK-domiciled if you were

tax year; you return to UK for more than a year, or move to a third country.

Proving domicile

Domicile determination is a highly specialist area; you need professional advice to ensure you get it right. If HMRC determine you are a UK domicile at death, your heirs will face an unexpected tax bill.

HMCR could request detailed information during a domicile enquiry, such as your place and nationality at birth; information on all residences since birth or available for your use; clubs, associations etc that you are a member of; your wills and professional and personal advisers. You’ll need documentary evidence and perhaps personal correspondence, electronic records etc.

Remember, it may be your heirs and/or executor who have to deal with this, so leave the paperwork in order for them.

sional, specialist advice; which is very specific to your circumstances and intentions. Couples need to carefully consider if the surviving spouse may return to the UK after the first one dies.

Whether or not you have UK domicile status, there are tax planning arrangements available to reduce your liabilities. An expert in this area will help you establish your domicile status, how inheritance tax interacts with Spanish succession tax, and what steps you can take to minimise unnecessary taxes for your heirs.

The tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; an individual should take personalised advice.

Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at

Phillip ‘The Duchess’

Betty Henderson TRIBUTES have flooded in for Phillip, also known as ‘The Duchess’, an icon in Benidorm’s LGBTQ+ community. Friends announced that Phillip had passed away sud­

denly on Wednesday, March 8. Phillip’s former workplace, Casa Don Juan also released a statement where they described him as “a genuine, talented person who was ever the showman and always managed to put a smile on any face.” They added he had a “heart of gold and would always be there for anyone.”

Friends wrote messages on Facebook expressing their shock at Phillip’s sudden passing and paid tribute to his incredible character and sense of humour. Friend Geoff Gartland wrote, “Philip had a wonderful personality and a wicked sense of humour that brought joy and laughter to ev­

Sweet wine

ery room he entered.”

Another friend expressed his shock at the news writing, “We are so shocked and sadwe were due to see him in three weeks time. Such a loss.”

Originally from Leeds, Phillip arrived in Benidorm from Wandsworth in 1996 and quickly built a rapport with other expatriates and the local community. Phillip then took over management of Casa Don Juan hotel in 2000 where he oversaw many years of success including pioneering work to make Benidorm’s gay scene the thriving community that it is today.

Phillip will be dearly missed by all who knew him. RIP.

Pairs stableford

MONTGO GOLF SOCIETY played a Pairs combined Stableford competition on Friday March 10 sponsored by Nigel Siddall, who was unable to play due to illness, but thank you Nigel for the prizes you provided for the winners.

The winning pair was Bernard Ross and Andrea Hall with 67 stableford points. Claiming runners up spot was our old favourite pair of Sally Cottrell and Ian Bonser with 61 points. In third place Geoff Dawe with a ghost partner with 60

points. Well done to you pairs. We had three nearest the pin prizes on offer ­ the third,11th and 16th and taking home the wine was Sally Cottrell, Glenys Cumming and Ruth Strasser. What happened to the men, bad showing boys. We had two two’s with Ruth Strasser and Steve Crossan alias Robert Turpin taking home a coveted Montgo Golf Ball each. Next Week’s competition is the St Patrick Day medal sponsored by Alan Lowans, so book in early as this is a very popular event.

MOSCATEL de la Marina Alta, the sweet wine produced with the grapes on the ancient terraces that characterise the landscapes of TeuladaMoraira and Benissa, is a product rooted in the local culture and economy. Both towns have now joined forces to promote this local delicacyMoscatel of the Marina Alta ­ in an agreement signed by officials from town councils with a view to working hand in hand to preserve and promote their legacy through joint initiatives and by creating synergies between public and private entities.

The department for Agriculture at Benissa Town Hall is spearheading the initiative, whose main mission of which is to increase the impact and scope of actions to promote Moscatel de la Marina Alta. The plan includes different actions, such as collaborating on promotional projects, devising a strategy for raising awareness of the region and organising annual events featuring the product, among others. They have also undertaken to share information and coordinate to create an image bank for social networks and website.

Phillip’s friends paid tribute to the fun-loving man he was.

Photo credit: Geoff Gartland (via Facebook)

From ice to ice cubes

POLAR air brought snow to the UK while temperatures were forecast to reach 30ºC in southern Spain. The whole European continent this week has seen marked contrast in the weather between the north and south.

From snow in parts of northern Spain last month and snow last weekend in Finland and the UK, the southern regions were much warmer. So far this month, temperatures have been more than 2ºC below average around the UK, and last Thursday parts of northern England and Wales experienced the heaviest snow of the winter. Temperatures also dropped to

SPAIN has the privilege of being the guest of honour at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival as the Marche du Film has invited Spain to be their next guest of honour.

Guillaume Esmiol, executive director of the Marche du Film, confirmed: “Spain is the second country to receive this privilege after India became guest of honour in 2022.

“We are very proud to have Spain as a guest of honour in this very special edition.”

“Spain will have a strong presence in the

Writing triumphs

16ºC in northern Scotland.

In contrast, across parts of south­east Spain temperatures reached the high 20s, and last weekend places such as Valencia and Alicante reached 30ºC or a little higher. For Valencia this is about 10ºC above the climatological average for a mid­March day.

Saturday’s maximums in Spain were predicted to be 26 in Barcelona, 30 in Alicante/Alacant, 25 in Granada, 21 in Madrid, 26 in Malaga, 31 in Murcia, 26 in Sevilla. By contrast, there were yellow weather warnings in place for the UK at the weekend, snow and ice predicted.

Guest of honour

Marche du Film programmes and is looking forward to sharing its ambitious plans to support international co­production and strengthen Spain as one of Europe’s leading audiovisual hubs with the entire professional film community.”

The Marche

du Film is the most important international professional meeting of the film industry.

The Cannes Film Festival will run from May 16 to 24, it brings together 12,500 audiovisual industry professionals in Cannes each year.

Betty Henderson INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY might be over, but there’s still plenty to celebrate, because March is Women’s History Month!

For years, women have been left out of the literary world, but that is all changing now. This month, we are celebrating the trailblazing women who have fought against patriarchal systems and societal barriers to make their mark on the literary world.

Award­winning Jewish author Corie Adjmi knows the power of women’s writing. She describes it as an act of rebellion, advocacy, and empowerment. Through their words, women build empathy, understanding, and connection with readers. They guide, inspire, and influence conversations and outcomes, shaping the literary scene with their unique perspectives and voices. Thanks to

21 injured

A TOTAL of 21 people received medical attention in Valencia on Friday, March 10. Most of them suffered burns as the result of a pyrotechnic accident involving a large firework which exploded. It would appear the firework landed on the ground and its explosion was delayed.

the tireless efforts of feminist movements and the increasing recognition of women’s contributions, women authors are now breaking down barriers, shattering stereotypes, and paving the way for future generations of female writers. So this Women’s History Month, let’s raise a glass to these incredible women.

It’s time to celebrate their triumphs and honour their contributions to the literary world. It’s time to read their works, listen to their voices, and amplify their messages.

The incident occurred during the celebrations for this year’s Fallas events in the city. According to Red Cross sources, none suffered serious burns. Eleven people were transferred to local medical centres. Of the 16 people cared for by the Red Cross, eight were men and eight were women. In addition, another 21 people received treatment, most of them due to fainting.

March is Women’s History Month.

“ Always believe in yourself, have pride in yourself and don’t take no for an answer. ”

Lorraine Howard, Client Account Manager, Seagate Wealth Management

22% of Spain’s start up businesses are run by women.

Getting out more

MOVING to our rural community in Galicia, we were more of a curiosity than anything else.

Americans move to the Costa del Sol or the Costa Brava, not the geographical centre of the rainy Spanish province tucked up above Portugal. As far away from the capital, Madrid, as you can get. Let’s face it, where we live isn’t sexy. No one is in a bikini getting a suntan or enjoying a fruity beverage under an umbrella on the beach in midMarch. Where we live is a work ­ a ­ day placefilled with farmers and tradesmen. And tractors.

Everyone here knows everyone else except us. And they don’t need to broaden their circle, especially to include linguistically challenged Americans who dress weird and are always smiling, as Americans are known to do. So, we had to find another way in.

After we moved to the farm, Jeff and I decided we wanted a dog. Our neighbourhood dogs visit regularly, but we wanted one of our own. Finally, a shelter responded to my inquiry, and we adopted our new Labrador, Fergus. And I began walking him on the trails in the area, through villages, and into town.

Prison for ex president

At first, people were sceptical of the American woman and her little puppy. Then, they started to stop their chores to pet him. Soon, I began to recognise fellow dog walkers. I would get a tip of the cap or a barely discernible chin nod. Then, they would allow their dogs to interact with Fergus and chat.

Jeff and I were in town recently. A man smiled and nodded at me as we passed.

“Who’s the guy?” Jeff asked.

“Just one of my dogwalking friends. Fergus knows him.”

Jeff just laughed. But he really should get out more.

A FORMER Murcia Region president has been sentenced to three years in prison for corruption.

Pedro Antonio Sanchez (PP) led the regional government from 2015 to 2017, but before then he had been mayor of his home town of Puerto Lumbreras for 10 years.

It was during his time as mayor that a series of irregularities were committed regarding a project to build a municipal auditorium, which included awarding the contract to a local architect without going through the official public bidding process in order to claim a €6 million grant from the national government.

A court heard this week that Sr Sanchez and his architect applied for the subsidy without having the project in place, forging the necessary documents and inflating the initial budget by 38

per cent.

The end result was an unfinished building, millions of euros lost and now a prison term for the mayor and the architect.

In addition, Sr Sanchez

has been landed with a €3,600 fine and a 17 ­ year ban to run for public office.

He has announced that he plans to appeal the sentence at the Spanish Supreme Court.

Foreign investment channels

SIGNIFICANT portions of investment in Spain passes through other countries, but the latest data from the Spanish Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism released on Wednesday, March 8 has revealed the biggest sources of Spain’s foreign investment.

The report found that 41.3 per cent of all corporate investment in Spain in the last five years was channelled through Luxembourg and the Netherlands. Together, the two countries have funnelled a whopping €64.9 billion into the country. Luxembourg, known for its generous tax incentives, is at the top of the list, having channelled €49 billion into Spain, while the Netherlands, currently in the news for Ferrovial’s decision to relocate its headquarters there, has concentrated €15.878 billion of investment in Spain. Germany is also a significant player, accounting for 12 per cent of the investment flow to Spain, totaling €19.494 billion, with most of the investment being direct.

Despite the significant investment that comes to Spain from countries that offer lower tax rates, such as Luxembourg or the Netherlands, tax avoidance remains one of the biggest problems for the Spanish Tax Agency.

Frequently asked questions about buying property in Spain

WHAT taxes do I have to pay when buying a property in Spain?

In Spain, the taxes paid by the buyer of a property depend on the region and the type of property bought/type of transaction. If it is a secondhand property, buyers must

pay the Transfer Tax. In the Region of Valencia, it represents 10 per cent of the purchase price.

On the other hand, if it is a new property, bought by a developer, buyers will have to pay Stamp Duty Tax (1.5%) and VAT (10%). When purchasing plots,

the VAT will be at 21 per cent. Is it necessary to have an NIE in Spain to buy a property?

Yes, to buy a property in Spain you will need to have an NIE. In addition, please note that the NIE must be registered with the competent tax authority.

Do I need a Spanish bank account to buy a property in Spain?

Although it is not necessary (at least in the initial stages: signing of the reservation contract) it is highly advisable to have a bank account in Spain to speed up the process and avoid delays and complications. It will also be extremely useful to direct debit water and electricity bills, etc, and also for the final payments of the purchase, which are normally made by banker’s draft.

Is it necessary to travel to Spain to buy a property?

At the end of the purchase procedure, you will have to come to Spain to sign the public deed of sale before a notary. If this is not possible, please note that you could also grant

a Power of Attorney in favour of another person, so that he or she can represent you.

What are the basic checks to be made when buying a property in Spain?

On the one hand, you will need to check the Land Registry to confirm that the vendors are the registral owners of the property, that its description matches the physical reality and that there are no encumbrances, mortgages, etc.

On the other hand, it is also advisable to verify the size and dimensions indicated in Cadastre. Making sure that the property has all the necessary licences, complies with municipal planning, there are no open procedures in the town hall for the re­establishment of the urban planning le­

gality, etc is also crucial.

How long does it take to complete a purchase of a property in Spain?

It will depend on each transaction and its specific circumstances. In any case, it is always advisable to allow several months to elapse between the signing of the initial reservation or purchase contract, and the public deed at the Notary’s office. This will allow you to carry out all the necessary checks, receive the pertinent certificates from the town hall confirming whether there are any infringement proceedings open in the municipality, etc.

Is it compulsory to appoint a lawyer to buy a property in Spain?

No. However, although not compulsory, it is highly advisable. An experienced solicitor in Real Estate Law will be able to counsel you on the risks involved in the purchase, the checks to be carried out, preparation and negotiation of the

contract, etc.

Should I sign a reservation without legal advice?

No. It is essential to get proper legal advice before paying any amount or signing any type of document (even if it’s the reservation). Otherwise, you could be forced to buy a property under non desirable conditions. Through expert legal advice, you will be able to make the purchase conditional on key issues such as the property not having any type of infringement procedure open, the description of the property coinciding with the physical reality, etc.

Is it true that notary fees are always paid by the buyer?

Not exactly. According to art. 1.455 of the CC, the cost of granting the deed is paid by the vendor. Whereas the cost of the first and other copies, must be paid by the buyer. However, in practice, it is common to apply the customs of the area. For instance, in the Marina Alta, the buyer usually pays the Notary fees. In any case, the parties are free to make whatever arrangements they wish.

Tourists from China

MADRID and Air China are joining forces to work on the recovery of tourist travellers from China.

In 2019 tourism from China reached 200,000 travellers but almost all of them were lost as a result of the Covid­19 pandemic.

The recovery plans, among other measures, involve increasing air connectivity between Madrid and Beijing, as well as resuming promotional activities for the destination in China.

Air China is the leading airline in China. Its main hub is in Beijing, where it offers fast and excellent connec­

tions to domestic and international destinations, linking all major commercial and tourist destinations in China. Since February 18 this year, the Madrid­Beijing frequency has increased from one to three flights per week.

In high season, Air China plans to increase the fre­

THE minister for Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda, Raquel Sanchez, has confirmed that Renfe has already issued two million subsidised multi­journey tickets throughout Spain. Consequently, the regional government has a budget of €2.832 billion for 2023, double the funds it was allocated in 2018, to strengthen infrastructures, improve mobility, decarbonise cities and help facilitate access to housing.

The minister said: “This government is allocating all the necessary resources to help those who need it most in the most difficult times.

Betty Henderson SPAIN is keeping a watchful eye on the recent outbreak of botulism in Europe, where 14 patients who underwent weight loss surgery in Turkey were struck by the disease which attacks the nervous system.

According to sources from the Spanish Ministry of Health in a report on Monday,

Tragic race

A 21 ­ YEAR ­ OLD runner who died during a half marathon in Elche at the weekend was a Spanish soldier.

quency by one more to four flights per week, which will allow the arrival of more than 3,000 passengers per month from China.

Air China was the first direct route created by an airline between Madrid and Beijing 17 years ago and is the longest ­ established route in Spain.

Subsidised tickets

“We are aware by transforming our transport system, we are transforming Spain, and by investing in housing, we are improving the lives of Spaniards and kickstarting business activity.”

Raquel added: “For those who say the measures are not helping: in Sevilla, almost 87,000 passes have been purchased across Cercanías, Media Distancia and Avant services since January 1. This figure is increasing to almost 280,000 multi­journey tickets throughout Andalucia.”

Fernando Ayala Collado collapsed when he crossed the finish line apparently due to a heart attack. After first being treated by the medical services at the race, he was taken by ambulance to Elche General Hospital, where he passed away shortly afterwards.

It is believed the tragedy was due to the unseasonably hot weather registered at the weekend, with temperatures close to 30ºC.

Elche mayor Carlos González expressed his condolences to the family of the young athlete and called on the municipal medical services to clarify the exact reasons for the accident “on a day on which the race was marked by a strong heat that made it harder than usual on a course with hardly any difficulties.”

Spain monitors outbreak

March 13, no cases have been reported in Spain so far, but officials will continue to monitor the situation.

The update followed an alert issued by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) after 14 patients who received an injection of botulinum

toxin were diagnosed with botulism. Ten of these patients underwent the procedure in the same clinic in Istanbul.

Botulism is a severe neuroparalytic illness that is generally caused by the toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria, also caused by food poisoning.

JOINING FORCES: To assist the recovery of tourists.

Image: Markus Mainka / Shutterstock.com

Struggling through Barcelona to Amsterdam

ONE third of Spanish people struggle to make it to the end of the month.

According to a new nationwide survey carried out among 2,000 residents throughout the country, 41 per cent of interviewees manage to save “very little,” while 36.4 per cent “just about” make it to the end of the month.

Among those who are worse off, 10.3 per cent admit having to use their savings to pay for monthly bills and nearly 6 per cent have been forced to take out loans to cover their living expenses.

In all, households in Spain have suffered a significant loss of purchasing power, with ever increasing electricity bills, mortgages and food bills, which are now nearly €900 higher a year.

THE launching of a new sleeper train project has been confirmed by the railway company, European Sleeper.

The company confirmed that: “European Sleeper is very proud to be part of this ambition of the European Commission.

“For the new Dutch­Belgian railway company, the train to Barcelona will be the second route after introducing the Brussels ­ Amsterdam ­ Berlin night train in May 2023.

“The AmsterdamBarcelona night train will strongly improve Europe’s quality of north­south rail connections. Even more so because one travels efficiently while asleep on the

THROUGHOUT the month of February the price of rent in Spain rose by 0.4 per cent. This represents a year­onyear increase of 8.7 per cent and the highest price reached in Spain.

In the last quarter, the price has risen by 3.4 per cent while in the last year,

night train, and distances are reduced to just a night away.”

European Sleeper added: “On the way between Amsterdam and Barcelona, Eu­

ropean Sleeper is planning to call at Rotterdam, Antwerp, Brussels and Lille (connection from London) in the evening and Avignon, Montpellier, Perpignan,

Rental prices

the increase is 8.7 per cent.

Thirty­seven capital cities have experienced rises in the price of rented housing over the last month. The most pronounced increase was in

Huesca, where rents rose by 9.6 per cent, followed by Zamora (3.7 per cent), Jaen (3.3 per cent), Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (3.2 per cent) and A Coruña (3 per cent).

Leon is the capital in which the price of rent has fallen the most during the month of February (­1.9 per cent).

Figueras and Girona in the morning.

“European Sleeper aims to start the new night train between Amsterdam and Barcelona in the spring of 2025.

“As a first step, the European Commission will invite all applicants to discuss the pilot projects in detail, agree on potential ways to support them, and further detail the planning.”

SLEEPER TRAIN: Planned for spring 2025.

Image: Markus Mainka / Shutterstock.com

Advertising Feature

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

WHY do we feel so much nostalgia for the 80s? It was such a stress-free decade with bold fashion statements and new hair trends. Remember mixing music on cassette tapes, recording your message on home answering machines, and not to forget how neon colours rocked with scrunched-up legwarmers over spandex tights. So satisfying.

Well nine out of 10 Línea Directa customers get the same satisfaction and recommend the best priced car, bike and home insurance to friends and family.

EXPAT2EXPAT REWARDS

When an existing Línea Directa customer recommends a new customer, they both receive €30. Línea Directa’s Expat2Expat programme is free and open to all existing customers. You can recommend up to 10 people and earn up to €300 in cash per year. Simply ask your friend to call 952 147 834 and quote your full name. Then once their application for car, bike or home insurance has been approved, Línea Directa will pay the reward straight into the bank account following payment of next or first premium. For more information, see terms and conditions at lineadirecta.com.

CHECK-OUT OUR POLICIES

All customer service and documentation is in English, their claims service is fast and efficient, you can get quick no obligation quotes over the phone, and their easy payment options help

Spain’s prisoner plea

Betty Henderson

spread the cost of premiums.

DEDICATED TO EXPATS

Línea Directa has been providing comprehensive car, motorbike and home insurance to British expatriates and residents in Spain for over 25 years. With over three million customers nationwide, Línea Directa makes sure you get the best possible price for the kind of insurance you really need.

ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING IS IN ENGLISH

Their Roadside Assistance team speaks English and will quickly help you with your onward journey. If you urgently need a duplicate set of keys for your motorcycle, then their English-speaking customer service will sort it out. And should you require Home Assistance to set up your new Wi-Fi connection, then English speaking technical staff will set up a visit.

DID YOU KNOW?

All Línea Directa insurance policies offer some exciting features specifically designed for British expatriates living in Spain. Their home insurance includes Pet Assistance, IT Assistance, and Home Maintenance. All motorbike policies come with Replacement Motorbike, Technical Equipment cover and even Young Person’s Night-time Assistance. And their car insurance includes helpful services such as Legal Assistance that can provide help when applying or renewing your driving licence in Spain.

Call their English-speaking customer service staff on 952 147 834 or get a competitive quote now at lineadirecta.com

SPAIN is determined to secure the release of Santiago Sánchez, a Spanish national who has been detained in Iran since October 2022 for taking photographs of Mahsa Amini’s tomb.

The Spanish Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares, gave a statement on Thursday, March 9 where he referred to the immense efforts by his ministry to release Sánchez for several months now. Albares explained he is unwavering in his commitment to bring Sánchez back home, but urged for discretion in the

matter, since diplomatic talks are sensitive.

Alabares added that he recently spoke to his Iranian counterpart at the G20 conference, where he raised the subject of

Roof collapse

MEMBERS of the Special Actions Group (GRAE) of the Fire Department recovered the bodies of three geologists who died on Thursday, March 9. They became trapped in a potash mine in the Barcelona municipality of Suria in the county of the Bages, after a landslide.

The three workers were trapped at a depth of 900 metres after the collapse of a gallery and emergency workers, together with the mine’s rescue brigade, were initially unable to access the affected area due to access difficulties.

According to Patricio Chacana, the CEO of the Suria potash mine, the young geologists were evaluating the safety of one of the fronts when the roof ‘fell on them’.

“The ceiling collapsed and it is not known why. It could have been due to vibrations or an earthquake,” said a representative of the USOC union, as reported by a news source.

The victims were aged 28, 29 and 31. According to reports, two of the deceased were master’s degree students at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC) in Manresa. The fatal victims were from Sant Joan de Vilatorrada in Barcelona, Colombia, and Alicante.

Sánchez’s imprisonment.

He also referred to the successful release of fellow Spanish prisoner Ana Baneira, a 25 ­ year ­ old backpacker who returned home to A Coruña on Thursday, March 2.

Sánchez was arrested last year after going missing during a backpacking trip where he hoped to reach Qatar in time for the World Cup.

He was detained for photographing the tomb of 22year­old Mahsa Amini. The young woman was killed by Iran’s ‘Morality Police’ for not wearing a veil, which sparked protests and unrest in the country.

Facebook bounces back

FACEBOOK has bounced back from the pandemic slump in Spain, as the social media giant recorded a 37 per cent surge in sales, raking in €2.72 million in profits in 2021.

In data released on Thursday, March 9, the company reported a net income of €33 million, which is a 14.8 per cent increase compared to the previous year. The company’s earnings were up from a loss of €432,000 in 2020 when the pandemic caused widespread lockdowns.

The increase has also been attributed to the company’s structure. Facebook’s primary revenue stream in Spain comes from the sale of advertising services from

its Irish parent company. Some of the data dates back to before the company changed its name to Meta. With plans to invest heavily in Spain, including building a data centre in Talavera de la Reina and hiring 2,000 people to work on its Meta projects, Facebook’s presence in the country is only set to grow. And while the company had to lay off 11,000 employees at the end of 2021, it is now poised for new job hirings and investment in Spain’s national economy.

Spain’s Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares at the G20 conference in New Delhi where he spoke with his Iranian counterpart about imprisoned Spanish nationals.

Photo credit: Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores, Unión Europea y Cooperación de España (via Facebook)

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

Michelle Obama

11.3% of the UK armed forces are women.

Bank boost

IN 2022, the European Investment Bank (EIB) poured €72.5 billion into various projects around the world, with Spain receiving a significant chunk of that funding.

The country was awarded €9.961 billion, making it the second­highest recipient of loans from the EIB, just behind Italy, which received €10.090 billion. France came third with €9.960 billion in funding.The data released on Thursday, March 9 revealed that Spain’s investment from the EIB represented 0.76 per cent of the country’s GDP in 2022.

Spain accounted for oneseventh of the EIB’s total loans, a significant achievement. Over half of the bank’s loans to Spanish projects have been allocated to support climate action and environmental sustainability.

A record­breaking €5.182 billion was assigned to four key areas of action including sustainable cities and regions and small and medium­sized enterprises (SMEs).

Around €2.485 billion in funding was allocated to Spanish SMEs.

Gas supply dominance

Betty Henderson

AFTER a year of diplomatic tensions between Spain and Algeria over the issue of independence for Western Sahara, Algeria is back to being Spain’s primary supplier of natural gas.

According to figures released on Thursday, March 9, Algeria topped the list of Spanish gas suppliers for the first two months of 2023. The North African nation accounted for 24.2 per cent of Spain’s gas imports in the first two months of 2023 with its Medgaz pipeline.

Algeria surpassed the United States who supplied 21.7 per cent of Spain’s natural gas in January and February, down from around 40 per cent in parts of 2022.

Spain continues to receive significant amounts of gas from Russia, which accounted for almost 20 per cent of Spain’s demand

cent in the same period last year.

This shift is largely down to climatic factors, Spain experienced a milder winter than expected, resulting in lower demand for gas.

Digital reading

THE Spanish digital book market is growing at an unprecedented rate globally and the latest report released on Thursday, March 9 revealed that Spain is leading the charge. According to the Annual Digital Book Report by Libranda, Spain sells the most digital books out of the Spanish­speaking world.

Spain is responsible for a staggering 66.3 per cent of digital book sales in Spanish, followed by Mexico and the United States. The report also stated that the Spanish digital book market is thriving as a whole, with a 4 per cent growth recorded worldwide,

including a 5 per cent increase in Spain in 2022. The market reached a whopping €119 million in sales last year, with €79 million of that coming from Spain and €40 million from the rest of the world.

What’s more, nearly 7 per cent of books read in Spain are now read in a digital format, a figure which rises to 40 per cent for some titles. The majority of sales are made through international online platforms such as Amazon, Apple, and Google, though there was also a significant increase in sales for traditional bookstores and independent online platforms.

Tourist spending

in the first two months of 2023, up from just 8 per

The good weather conditions have resulted in underground gas storage facilities in Spain being 79 per cent full in February, a 43 per cent higher than February 2022.

JANUARY tourist spending in Spain reached €1.7 billion in the Canary Islands alone.

A total of 1.2 million international tourists arrived in the Canary Islands, spending a total of €1.7 billion, representing an increase of 58.5 and 50.9 per cent, respectively, indicating the figures have reached 2019

levels when no travel restriction was imposed. According to data by the Institute National Statistics Office (INE), 29 per cent of all tourists arrived in the Canary Islands, while 33 per cent of these came from the UK. The Canary Islands also represented a total of 32.7 per cent of total spending in Spain.

The Medgaz pipeline from Algeria was one of Spain’s primary sources of natural gas in the first two months of 2023.

Photo credit: horrapics / Wikimedia Commons

20%

Less than 20% of the world’s landowners are women.

Cannabis plants discovered

POLICE have seized cannabis plants worth an estimated value of £200,000 (€226,000) from a farm in the UK after the property was discovered.

The incident took place in a neighbourhood of Rochdale, as police teams received information that electricity was being bypassed at an address on Yorkshire Street.

After the officers arrived

on the scene to investigate, the property was discovered and upon further investigation a substantial cannabis farm was found.

A press release issued by Greater Manchester Police said that “Officers discovered approximately 350 plants, spread over three floors, at different stages of cultivation.”

Jonathan Ross is back

No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing as officers gather evidence that might identify those responsible for the cannabis farm.

“This is a significant find and fantastic work by all of the teams who worked together to locate and dismantle the farm,” said Chief Inspector Trevor Harrison.

UK flood damage bill

CLIMATE change affecting Britain over the next century could see annual damage caused by flooding to increase by more than a fifth.

There are certain floodprone homes and businesses that could be impacted unless global pledges to reduce carbon emissions are met.

And experts say, even if pledges are met, capping temperatures to a rise of

1.8 degrees Celsius, south Wales and the south­east and north­west of England are going to experience increases in flooding.

Edinburgh, Manchester, Cardiff and London are all highlighted on the University of Bristol ‘flood risk map’ created by researchers at the University and Fathom, a company that assesses climate risk. They used information about terrain, river flow,

rainfall patterns and sea level to build a detailed picture of how much flood damage there would be to people’s homes and businesses across England, Scotland and Wales. They combined this with Met Office climate predictions over the next century. The Association of British Insurers says the annual cost of flood damage across the UK is £700 million.

JONATHAN ROSS will be back on the radio, after nearly 15 years since a scandal resulted in taking him off the air.

According to a news source, the star will be joining Classic FM in the UK as their new host for the show Saturday Night at the Movies. Ross will be on air from 7pm to 9pm, to host his first radio show since he faced backlash after he last made an appearance on the Russell Brand show.

Both celebrities were criticised after they left ‘lewd messages’ on Fawlty Towers actor Andrew Sachs’ answering machine.

The BBC had also faced a fine worth £150,000 (€169,000) by regulator Ofcom after the incident as Brand had to resign, while Ross, who was then hosting the Ra­

TICKETS for the nine public shows for Eurovision that will be staged in Liverpool in May went on sale March 7. Staff in Liverpool’s hospitality business who will serve Eurovision fans are undergoing safety training.

The You’re Safe Here scheme, first run by Merseyside Police 2021, will give advice on how to identify a hate crime and report

dio 2 show, was suspended for a period of three months. Taking about his new show, Ross said, “If you love film scores and want to revisit the classics, then I hope you’ll make it a date to join me at the movies on Classic FM every Saturday evening.”

Eurovision in Liverpool

it to officers. More than 600 staff from 70 venues are already trained. Training for new staff will take place over the next three months.

The scheme is designed to reassure the public they are in a safe place and staff will know what to do if they are a victim of a crime, need help, or are faced with in­

timidation or other unacceptable behaviour.

The sign for a ‘safe place’ is displayed on windows, tables and on posters inside the venues. The sign says, ‘You’re safe here. This venue is a safe place for everyone. We have a zero­tolerance policy towards hate or violence in this venue’.

RADIO STAR: Is returning to the air.

Booster vaccine

COVID booster doses will be offered to the most vulnerable this spring in England and Wales, as per a statement by the government.

According to a news source, those who are under the age of 12 and are immunosuppressed will be offered a children’s version of the Pfizer ­BioNTech, as per the programme by the government.

People who are above the age of 75, as well as care home residents, will also be offered Covid ­ 19 booster doses.

The government said that children under 12 will be offered the booster, six months after their last dose.

Man dies on flight

A MAN aboard a Jet2 flight from Antalya in Turkey to Glasgow on Tuesday March 7 fell ill on board. Cabin crew performed CPR on the 44­year­old for 40 minutes, but despite the best efforts of trained staff he tragically died.

Boosters for Covid.

People who chose to get the booster dose can choose from different vaccine options including Pfizer, Moderna and Sanofi/GSK, but “which vaccine people receive will depend on local supply”.

The government also said that the NHS will set the exact dates for the programme in the coming days.

Victorious Festival headliner

GRAMMY and Brit award winners Mumford & Sons will close the three­day Victorious seaside festival this summer. The folk rockers are the final headline act for the event in Southsea, Hampshire, during the August bank holiday weekend.

Kasabian and Jamiroquai have already been announced as headliners.

Other acts include Alt­J, Ben Howard, DJ legend Pete Tong performing his Ibiza Classic with the Essential Orchestra, Sigrid, Ellie Goulding, Natalie Imbruglia, Friendly Fires, Annie Mac,

Blossoms, The Charlatans, Belle and Sebastian, Jake Bugg, Kaiser Chiefs, Hard­Fi, The Vaccines, The Divine Comedy, The Coral, The Enemy and Katy B.

Andy Marsh, lead booker at Victorious, said: “Mumford & Sons strike the perfect balance with the rest of our bookings and the show is going to make for a fantastic finale.”

Victorious is the UK’s biggest metropolitan festival featuring British indierock; it is a family­friendly event with huge free kids arena, markets and real food and ale.

The man was not travelling with anyone according to reports and “didn’t wake up” so the alarm was raised.

A passenger, who did not wish to be named, said: “We were around 40 minutes away from landing and the next minute, all the cabin crew started running toward the seats behind me. A man had been pulled onto the aisle and they were trying to give him mouth­tomouth.

“The pilot came on to inform us we were going to have to do an emergency landing due to a medical incident on­board. We had to land with all our cabin lights on and it was quite scary.

“However, the staff at Jet2 were so professional and respectful during the incident.”

New UK military base

THE UK has announced the opening of a new military base in the far north of Norway built to bolster NATO’s capabilities in the Arctic. The newly established Norwegian site, called Camp Viking, will serve as a hub for Royal Marines Commandos, said Britain’s Royal Navy. The base opens amid concerns following

Economy is growing

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. More than 1,000 commandos have been deployed to Camp Viking this winter.

The purpose­built base, located in Øverbygd, around 40 miles south of Tromso, will be able to accommodate all personnel from the elite commando­led Royal Marines force.

THE UK economy grew in January by 0.3 per cent according to figures released on Friday March 10, as the country manages to elude the forecast recession brought on by the pandemic and war in Europe.

Economists polled by Reuters had projected a 0.1 per cent monthly increase in GDP. GDP was flat over the three months to the end of January, the Office for National Statistics said.

“The services sector grew by 0.5 per cent in January 2023, after falling by 0.8 per cent in Decem ­

ber 2022, with the largest contributions to growth in January 2023 coming from education, transport and storage, human health activities, and arts, entertainment and recreation

activities, all of which have rebounded after falls in December 2022,” the ONS found.

Production output fell by 0.3 per cent in January after growing 0.3 per cent in December, while the construction sector dropped 1.7 per cent in January after flatlining the previous month.

Both the Bank of England and the Office for Budget Responsibility have forecast a five­quarter recession beginning in the first quarter of 2023, but the data has so far exceeded expectations.

Lilibet will be a princess

PRINCESS Lilibet Diana MountbattenWindsor was christened on Friday March 3 in Montecito, at the Sussexes’ home, close to her second birthday.

Her parents Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have confirmed their two children will be known as Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. The children were referred to as ‘master’ and ‘miss’ on the Buckingham Palace website for the past six months.

The palace has confirmed the site’s line of succession list would now be updated to reflect the change, after a spokesperson for the Sussexes publicly referred to Lilibet as a princess when announcing

news of her christening.

When Archie was born, he was the great­grandchild of a sovereign rather than a grandchild, so was not given the title.

However, when the Queen died and her son King Charles acceded to the throne, it meant Archie and Lilibet were entitled to be a prince and princess.

They are also entitled to use the HRH style ­ although Harry and Meghan retain their HRH styles, they no longer use them after leaving the working monarchy.

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

W E B Dubois

49.58% of the world population is female.

Cancer charity march

THE fifth Charity March of the Amunt Association against Cancer will take place in Denia on Sunday, April 2. The Amunt Association is a group of well­trained professionals that coordinates and provides a meeting place

where people diagnosed with cancer and their families can share their experiences with others who have overcome the disease.

As usual, the walk will go along Paseo de la Marineta Cassiana and Les Rotes to the

‘Red Eyes’ Photo Exhibition

Les Arenetes beach. Walkers will meet in the Marina Denia car park at 10.00 for a warm­up session before the start of the walk. Anyone interested in taking part in this enjoyable activity to raise money for cancer research can register by going along to the Amunt Association headquarters in Avenida Campo Torres de Denia from Monday to Friday between 11.00 and 1pm and 6pm to 8pm.

The donation, which is €5, includes the identifying label, a backpack and a t­shirt (for the first 1,000 walkers registered). This time the t­shirt is black to symbolise lung cancer.

THE cuidArt exhibition Room at Denia Hospital is hosting several works entered in the ‘Red Eyes’ International Festival. The ‘Kids of Copper’ exhibition by Alicante­born photographer Vicente Albero will be on display until May 14.

Kids of Copper is a series of 41 documentary photographs taken in Ghana between 2014 and 2017 in a gigantic electronic tip full of discarded goods from the West.

The tip is called Sikkens and has transformed the local area into a smoking hellscape contaminated by millions of smouldering plastic appliances. The objective is to extract the copper contained in

K-POP is a massively popular, trendsetting genre of music originating from South Korea that blends mainstream music, cool choreography and addictive tunes. This charity event on April 2 at the Palau d’Esports l’Illa is your chance to soak up the country’s culture.

There will be recreational activities for

many of these items for subsequent sale. However, their price is high: toxic gases and land and water pollution. The tip not only causes environmental but also social harm because it employs hundreds of youngsters from inland areas.

‘Kids of Copper’ bears witness to this small world visited by Vicente Albero, who now offers this photographic portrait of Sikkens and those who work and live there. He has formed deep friendships during the project, which still survive.

K-Pop and Korean fair

all throughout the event, which will start at 10am and end at 8pm, such as dance exhibitions. There will also be goods on sale, and as this is a charitable event, the proceeds will go NGO, the Association of Initiatives to Support Social Minorities.

Get dressed up and take selfies on the photosets, get the pop star look with a temporary tattoo, check out the art, play traditional Korean games, K­pop trivia and a gymkhana with hidden messages and watch videos featuring K­Pop groups.

ELECTRONIC TIP: Full of discarded goods from the West.

Universal Lounge Bar - Let no man thirst for good beer!

THE Universal Lounge Bar in Albir is celebrating an anniversary this year. It is 15 years since proprietor Alain Vanden Bossche left his native Belgium and moved to Spain to open this restaurant and bar, and he hasn’t looked back! Universal by name and universal by nature, all the 96 nationalities who have made their home in Albir, one of the most cosmopolitan towns on the coast, are welcome.

With a bright, comfortable interior and a spacious, colourful terrace with a lively atmosphere, we visited on a Friday afternoon. We were impressed by the smiling, friendly staff, the range of food and drink and the appearance of the delicious­looking dishes emerging from the kitchen. You would have to travel a long way to find a bar with a beer menu like Alain’s. Even in nearby Benidorm, you’d be lucky to find 40 or 50. Alain stocks a massive selection of 150 beers, many of them Belgian, making this the best place to discover all kinds of ales, lambics, red ales, brown ales, strong ales and

stouts. Belgian beers have a unique taste thanks to the yeast, which has a floral, sweet edge to it that tastes different from anything else. There is also an endless choice of beers from other countries to try, and 10 draught beers, so make sure you take a designated driver!

But there is more than just beer to drink, with all the cocktails and mixed drinks you can imagine. So much choice and so little time… we had an Aperol Spritzer in the sunshine.

With coffee by Illy, the coffee connoisseur’s dream, the list of speciality coffees makes me wish that Univer­

sal was just around the corner so that I could go for a coffee and a delicious breakfast every morning. The breakfast options are impressive and offer excellent value for money, ranging from a full British (sausages, bacon and fried eggs, Heinz beans, toast and butter, and tomatoes and cheese for €6.50) to a vegetarian option (Panache of vegetables with melted cheddar and Havarti cheese with a touch of spinach pesto for €4.60). Not so hungry? Toast with different toppings, pastries or omelettes is what you need.

As the day passes, the kitchen turns out freshly cooked, great value dishes. Sandwiches, wraps and tapas are always a hit, but the menu is long and there is something to please anyone. We spotted some rather tempting fish and chips emerging from the kitchen… mmm. This is not one of those restaurants where you can’t see anything you fancy, rather, you’ll see so many things you won’t know which dish to choose.

Don’t miss Alain’s Belgian specialities. There are delicious slow­cooked

ribs, Belgian stew and chicken volau­vent, and the iconic fillet Americaine, a traditional spread made with premium beef from Brussels and a close cousin of steak tartare. Naturally, this being a Belgian establishment, there are mussels when in season, however, unfortunately, the season is over until September, so you will have to wait.

You will also have to wait for the next big thing to come to the Universal Lounge Bar, but not for long! Within the next couple of weeks, there will be Ben and Jerry’s ice cream by the scoop in cones and tubs. You won’t find this premium ice cream in this format anywhere in the area, so it is somewhat of a coup for Alain.

As Alain says, the emphasis is on quality and value for money, so go along to the Universal Lounge Bar on weekdays (closed on Thursdays, Saturdays and public holidays from 9.30 to 10pm and Sundays from 09.30 to 4pm. The Universal Lounge Bar is at Av de l’Albir, 68, 03581 Alicante (Tel. 966 865 910).

UNIVERSAL LOUNGE BAR: So many good things, you won’t know which dish to choose.

THE Auditori Teulada Moraira has announced the line­up of shows and concerts for 2023. This year will be a busy one at the auditorium, with more than 30 activities planned.

On March 17, there will be a tribute to women in music organised by the Xarza de Dones Teulada and the Equality Department, while on Saturday, March 25, the 10th Band Music event will take

Entertainment galore Summer of rock & pop

THE ‘Marquesa Concerts’ will start off for the 22nd time in May and June in the garden of the town’s Casa de Cultura. This year there will be five concerts.

On May 20 at 9.30pm Sara Monfort will give a free concert. This singer, songwriter and guitarist from Pedreguer plays a blend of folk, pop and electronics. The result is undoubtedly magnetic. Ex ­

place, featuring performances by Centre Artístic Musical de Pedreguer, the Agrupació Musical de Pego and the host organisation, Musical Cultural de Teulada which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Young talent will have their day on March 31 at the Children’s Choir Meeting, organised by the Mestre Berenguer Professional Music School in Teulada, and, on the

same day, the Well­Being Fair, an initiative created because of the Covid­19 Pandemic, will open.

A few days later, on April 8 and 9, the Auditori will host ‘Peter, the Musical’, a family show featuring 20 artists. Since the venue opened 12 years ago, it has hosted more than 600 activities, many of which have featured local associations.

pect a sensitive, captivating performance.

Los Estanques & Annie B Sweet will present their explosive psychedelic pop on June 17, and Ariel Rot ­ formerly of mythical bands Tequila and Los Rodríguezwill celebrate 25 years of his solo career on June 3.

Burning will rock the night away, and then The Skatalites ­ well­known to lovers of Jamaican music like ska,

rocksteady and reggae ­will have everyone dancing. The concerts will take place on Saturdays at 9.30pm in the Marquesa Garden from May 20 to June 17. Tickets are available from 222.instsanticket.es or at the Casa de Cultura for €10, with discounts for youth and pensioner card holders.

The first concert is free of charge.

THE Bezdan border crossing on the SerbianCroatian border was the site of a concerning incident on Saturday, March 6. Three Croatians were arrested after scanners detected a ‘serious amount’ of radiation emanating from their Audi car.

Border officials searched the vehicle, finding the head of a radioactive lightning rod in the boot of the car along with a device used to measure metal composition. Officials did not give any further information about the specific radioactive material found, but said that they had ordered border patrol officers at the crossing to discard their clothing and

Radioactive road trip

receive a medical check­up. Nuclear waste disposal experts from the Serbian Vinca Nuclear Research Institute said that the rod has been moved to a secure location.

Radioactive lightning rods have been installed in hundreds of sites worldwide according to the International Atomic Energy Agency as it was believed that they would reduce the risk of lightning strikes hitting other targets. However, the agency reported in 2022 that there is no evidence to prove this belief.

Due diligence doubts

THE trial of four former banking executives in Switzerland began on Wednesday, March 8 and it is causing a stir in financial circles.

The three Russian nationals and one Swiss national worked at Gazprombank in Zurich and are accused of helping Russian musician Sergei Roldugin launder funds believed to have belonged to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The case began when it was discovered that Roldugin had placed more than €47 million in Swiss accounts at the bank between 2014 and 2016, while presenting as a cellist on a modest income. The musician had achieved some fame, but admitted himself that he was not a millionaire. Further investigation found Roldugin to have close links to the Russian President, including supposedly even being the godfather of his daughter.

Prosecutors argue that the four bankers should have implemented greater background checks to confirm the source of Roldugin’s funds.

The verdict in the trial is expected on Thursday, March 30.

Plane crash in Rome

TWO pilots died after their military planes met with a tragic accident mid­air in Italy.

According to the press, the incident happened in the sky above Rome, as the planes collided and then crashed onto a street in Rome. The pilots were reportedly flying two U208 aircraft and were killed instantly after they smashed into each other. Local reports suggest that the pilots had

Warm winter woes

EUROPE is no stranger to winter weather, but this year’s season brought a change in the pattern. According to data released by the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) on Wednesday, March 8, the continent just experienced its second­warmest winter on record. Throughout the continent, temperatures hovered at an average of 1.4 degrees Celsius above the 1991­2020 average. While the winter may have felt mild in some areas, it was anything but ordinary. December and January’s weather was described as a ‘severe winter heatwave’, with record­high temperatures being recorded in countries including France.

The Swiss town of Altdorf also saw temperatures soar to 19.2 degrees Celsius, breaking a record that had been in place since 1864. This is not the first time Europe has experienced a warmer winter. Scientists believe that the trend is a result of climate change, which is causing global temperatures to rise.

been flying over Guidonia Montecelio as a part of a preplanned exercise. After colliding, both planes plunged and crashed near the Guidonia military airport. Two other planes that were also accompanying the aircraft safely managed to move away and were not involved in the acci­

dent. Official reports said two buildings were also burnt after the planes crashed next to them, as people were evacuated from the zone.

Photos shared on Twitter by SA911 show the aftermath of the incident as the fire from the planes engulfed buildings.

AFTERMATH: The fire engulfed buildings too.

Photos by Twitter

France’s pension paralysis

FRANCE was once again rocked by major nationwide strikes as more than a million people took to the streets on Tuesday, March 7 to protest against President Emmanuel Macron’s plans to raise the retirement age from its current age of 62 to 64.

The left­wing CGT union planned the strike which took place across several industries in the country, and said the number of protesters exceeded 3.5 million, although the official figure was placed at 1.28 million.

The strike is a culmination of months of unrest and organised protests against the unpopular pension reform, which has faced fierce resistance from labour unions and workers across the country.

Industries across the country were affected including fuel and supplies, transportation including national services, connections with other countries and the Paris

Metro. Strike action continued in many sectors on Wednesday, March 8. Despite opposition, Macron’s

government is hoping that the pension reform plan will be adopted by parliament by the end of the month.

Pipeline sabotage

THE uncertainty surrounding the Nord Stream gas pipeline bombings continues to deepen as investigators announce they searched a boat that may have been used in the attack. German prosecutors confirmed that a search had taken place in January on Wednesday, March 8, but warned against rushing to conclusions.

News reported by various sources claimed that a saboteur group of five men and one woman in a proUkrainian group had attacked the pipeline from a rented vessel.

While the reports stopped short of accusing the Ukrainian government of involvement in the attack, there is concern that they could undermine Ukraine’s pleas for increased ammunition and arms supplies from western allies.

The German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius urged against preemptive conclusions before an official investigation has been completed. Investigators from Sweden, Denmark and Germany are looking into whether the attack was state­ ordered or completed without Ukrainian government knowledge.

Nord Stream pipelines carry gas from Russia to Germany, making them a key strategic target.

TIKTOK, the popular social media app, announced a new data security plan known as Project Clover, on Wednesday, March 8 which aims to protect user information across Europe.

Data defence

The decision comes as political pressure mounts in the US to ban the app due to its links to China through its parent company, ByteDance, which is based in Beijing. On Tuesday, March 7, the White House gave its support to a bill that could allow the government to ban TikTok. Under Project Clover, user data will be

stored on servers in Ireland and Norway with any data transfers outside Europe vetted by a third­party IT company. The use of the outsourced data servers are estimated to cost TikTok €1.2 billion each year. Project Clover will also anonymise personal data so that individual users cannot be identified without additional information by global TikTok employees who can access app data.

Tiktok has more than one billion users worldwide, 250 million of which are in Europe.

PRESS EUROPEAN

DENMARK

Norse god

SCIENTISTS identified the oldest-known inscription naming the Norse god Odin on part of a gold disc found in western Denmark in 2020. Lisbeth Imer, an expert in runes at Copenhagen’s National Museum in Copenhagen, said this was clear evidence that Odin was worshipped as early as the fifth century.

THE NETHERLANDS

Chips chopped

THE Netherlands confirmed new controls on exporting equipment for manufacturing microchips, following the US in preventing China from accessing specialised machinery. The government also wants to ensure that Dutch technology was not used in military systems or weapons of mass destruction, the Foreign Trade Minister said.

BELGIUM

Clergy lurgy

CATHOLICS criticised a 60-page booklet published in Belgium which argued that to abolish clericalism, “we must abolish the clergy.” It was written by nine people associated with the diocese of Liege, two of whom were priests, who declared it was time to “return the initiative to the communities.”

GERMANY

Fair dos

BERLIN’S outdoor and covered pools now allow women to swim topless following a complaint to the ombudsman. The Justice and Antidiscrimination department announced that establishments would apply regulations fairly, creating equal rights for all Berliners “whether male, female or non-binary.”

FRANCE

Bird flu

AFTER three foxes were found dead in a nature reserve in Meaux near Paris where gulls had died from highly contagious bird flu, one of the animals which was collected and tested was later found to have the disease. The virus also infected a cat in France in late December.

NORWAY

Don’t drive

BERGEN in Norway will inaugurate a 2.9kilometre pedestrian and bicycle tunnel under the Lovstakken mountains on April 19. Linking the Fyllingsdalen and Mindemyren residential areas, the world’s longest purposebuilt tunnel of its kinds aims to encourage the public to walk or cycle instead of driving.

FINLAND

New life

FINLAND’S Immigration Service updated regulations regarding asylum applications submitted by Afghans and will grant refugee status to all women and girls. After the Taliban came to power the position of women in Afghanistan had deteriorated significantly along with their rights and freedoms, the government said.

IRELAND

Flower power

MORE than half of Ireland's native plants have declined in range and abundance, the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland (BSBI) found. In contrast, 80 per cent of species that were introduced since 1500 have increased and in some cases, like Himalayan Balsam and rhododendron, overwhelmed native plants.

ITALY

Spy snared

AN Italian military court recommended a life sentence for Walter Biot, 56, a naval captain accused of passing documents to Russia for cash. After a police swoop in Rome, Biot was arrested and charged with accepting €5,000 for classified NATO documents while two Russian diplomats were expelled.

PORTUGAL

Big profits

PORTUGAL’S Food Safety Authority (ASAE) detected huge profit margins on basic food products on sale in the country’s supermarkets. These ranged from between 20 and 30 per cent for sugar, up to 50 per cent on eggs, oranges and carrots, and more than 50 per cent for onions.

UKRAINE

Donated cars

UKRAINE is receiving vehicles that the Latvian authorities confiscated from drunk drivers under a scheme introduced to assist the war effort. The cars were delivered to the Agendum group which delivered 900 donated vehicles to Ukraine’s devastated cities and frontlines in the first three months of the war.

SWEDEN

Pandemic riddle

THE number of overweight children in Sweden increased during the pandemic, a statistic that baffled Professor of Food Studies, Paulina Nowicka at Uppsala University. “Given that Sweden was one of the countries that did not have a lockdown during the pandemic, this increase is startling,” she said.

BUSINESS EXTRA Not flexible FINANCE

Driving force

UK car sales recovered further in February for the seventh consecutive month as registrations rose by 26 per cent with electric vehicles and plug­in hybrids accounting for almost a quarter of new models. Last month’s 77,441 registrations were only 6.5 per cent lower than pre­pandemic levels.

Pampered dogs

PET CARE company Artero, which specialises in dog grooming and cosmetics, had a turnover of more than €20 million last year, compared with €8.5 million in 2018, a 150 per cent increase. The group, which sells in 90 countries, now has plans to open subsidiaries in the UK and France.

Naughty step

TONY DANKER, who heads the Confederation of British Industries, took time out during an investigation into his conduct at work involving a female employee. The CBI said it took all matters of workplace conduct “extremely seriously” but declined to comment until the review was complete.

Serve yourself

SPAIN has 1,900 petrol selfservice petrol stations, accounting for just over 18 per cent of the total. This 49 per cent increase between March 2021 and January 2023 was accompanied by lower running costs, resulting in more competitive prices, said Aesae, the association representing the sector.

Fashion fiasco

MANCHESTER’S online fashion group In The Style is selling out to private equity group Baaj Capital for £1.2 million (€1.34 million) two years after it was listed on the stock market with a value of £105 million (€117.82). The company said the sale was necessary to avoid administration.

was paid out in dividends to the holders of stocks and shares in companies listed on Spain’s Stock Exchange in 2022, an increase of 32 per cent on 2021.

Not without a struggle

Linda

Hall

SPAIN’S government is looking to prevent multinational Ferrovial from moving its headquarters to the Netherlands.

Ministers believe it could be possible to use anti­takeover legislation to halt the planned merger between Ferrovial’s Madrid­based parent company and Ferrovial International, its Dutch subsidiary.

This law was introduced in early 2020 to protect foreign companies from snapping up strategic Spanish businesses as shares plummeted owing to Covid lockdowns and restrictions.

The law, extended last December, will be in force until the end of 2024

THE decision to close the UK’s Taxpayer Protection Taskforce could involve the loss of up to £5.1 billion (€5.7 billion) for taxpayers.

The £100 million (€112.3 million) taskforce was created to combat fraud in the Covid­19 financial support schemes that were administered by His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) during the pandemic. More than 1,000 employees were assigned to focusing on recouping fraudulent and faulty claims.

A cross­party parliamentary committee voiced concerns on March 8 that HMRC’s plans to close the taskforce would now result in paying insufficient atten­

Grifols doubt

GRIFOLS CEO Steven F Mayer’s surprise resignation has disconcerted shareholders.

Mayer resigned from the pharmaceutical company that specialises in plasma­derived medicines at the end of February, citing “personal motives” five months after taking over.

This coincided with the presentation of the Barcelonabased multinational’s savings plan, created to demonstrate commitment to tackling its share price crisis and the €9 billion debt dogging the company since the pandemic.

Tactics include laying off 8.5 per cent of Grifols’ global workforce and measures aimed at saving an annual €400 million.

and legal experts are currently analysing whether activating it would require explicit Cabinet authorisation.

Nadia Calviño, vice­president and Minister for Economic Affairs pointed out on hearing Ferrovial’s announcement that the highly profitable con­

struction and services company had founded its fortune on public sector infrastructure contracts. During Pedro Sanchez’s time as president alone, Ferrovial was awarded €1 billion in contracts.

Calviño stressed that Ferrovial could not be “punished” via contracts but inside the construction sector the feeling is growing that the company would not be the best ally in coming months.

This was the opinion of the director general of a company listed on Spain Ibex­35. Many of the infrastructure giants would think twice before joining Ferrovial on big contracts, he said. Another agreed that at present, Ferrovial would not be the “best of companions” on short­term joint ventures.

Covid billions lost

“It would be unacceptable for HMRC to write off such a large amount of taxpayer’s money,” the committee claimed. “Too many companies claimed that shouldn’t have and now won’t give it back,” said Dame Meg Hillier, the committee’s Labour chairwoman.

GOLD is a traditional standby providing protection against uncertainty and inflation although prices can experience intense fluctuations, experts warned.

“I wouldn’t recommend this type of investment for someone wanting short term returns,” financial adviser Victor Alvargonzalez said.

Gold shot up at the start of the pandemic and the beginning of the Ukraine war but tumbled between March and October 2022. An ounce of gold fetched $1,824 (€1,728) in February, 11 per cent below the maximum of $2,067 (€1,958) it reached in early August, Alvargonzalez said.

“Gold isn’t meant for speculation, it’s more of a strategic investment,” added market analyst Javier Molina.

Rising sales

GREGGS will open 150 new shops and trial 24­hour drivethrough outlets after a rise in sales and profits despite increased overheads.

tion to chasing up the billions of public money lost.

The committee learnt that HMRC estimated that between £2 and £5.1 billion (€2.6 and €5.7 billion) of spurious claims have been made to the furlough scheme for

company workers, the support programme for the selfemployed and the ‘Eat Out to help out’ meal subsidy plan.

This was unlikely to have been recovered by 2023­24, the committee found.

Caixabank says no

CAIXABANK intends to lodge a formal challenge against Spain’s 4.8 per cent windfall tax.

The bank joins other Spanish lenders in objecting to the temporary tax announced by the government in December to finance the €6 billion measures introduced to counteract the cost of living crisis.

The group ­ in which Spain’s government still has a holding of just over 16 per cent via the 2009 Bank Restructuring Fund (FROB)has described the tax as “discriminatory, confiscatory and distorting market competition within the eurozone.”

Instead of settling the first advance payment of the windfall tax on net profits of more than €800 million due in February, Caixabank has opted to contest the levy.

Sabadell, Bankinter, Abanca and Kutxabank have joined, or will join, Cataloniabased CaixaBank in appealing against the tax.

HMRC said in January that the taskforce “has not given value for money” and announced it intended to close the unit in September 2023. The taskforce is likely to recoup between £525 and £625 million (€589.5 and €701.8 million).

Punishment

CONSULTANCY firm PwC was fined £7.5 million (€8.4 million) for serious breaches while auditing the accounts of engineering company Babcock.

These included faking evidence related to a sensitive government contract, the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) said, adding that it found infringements in every area of Babcock’s 2017 and 2018 accounts that were investigated. The independent regulator for the UK and Ireland maintained that PwC “repeatedly” failed to challenge management, gather sufficient evidence to confirm financial statements, or follow basic audit requirements. PwC’s succession of failures meant there was a risk that mistakes or misstatements in Babcock’s financial accounts could have been overlooked, the FRC said.

The chain renowned for its sausage rolls announced plans to resite 40 shops in larger premises and refurbish another 150 stores this year, as demand for its products remained buoyant, notwithstanding the cost of living crisis.

The London Stock Exchangelisted company reported that sales had risen by 23 per cent to £1.5 billion (€1.68 billion) in 2022, with pre­tax profits 1.9 per cent higher at £148 million (€166 million).

Tickets hiked

RAIL fares in Britain have experienced the largest increase in more than a decade despite record levels of poor timetable reliability.

Fares in England and Wales rose by up to 5.9 per cent on average, adding hundreds of pounds to the outlay for most annual season tickets, consumer groups said. The annual rise was the largest since the 6.1 per cent hike across the country that was announced in 2012.

Britain’s Rail minister Huw Merriman justified the increase which he maintained was “well below” inflation.

NADIA CALVIÑO: Economy Minister looking for ways to halt Ferrovial’s exit.

COVID SCHEME: HMRC admitted it received billions of false claims.

Photo credit: Moncloa Pool Photo credit: photopublishing.service.gov.uk

DOW JONES

BUSINESS EXTRA

Keep warm

THE National Grid put backup coal­fired power stations into action for the first time this winter as low winds reduced windfarm output and Britain prepared for the coldest night of the year. Two units at the West Burton plant (Nottinghamshire) began producing power on March 7 to meet the expected demand.

Passive ads

THE National High Court in Madrid pronounced broadcaster Atresmedia guilty of passive advertising by naming El Corte Ingles while promoting AtresPlayer Premium Subscriptions on January 2, 2022. The court confirmed Atresmedia’s €183,220 fine imposed by Spain’s National Markets and Competition Commission.

Not worth it

FEW childcare places and expensive nurseries are prompting mothers to question whether it is worth returning to work. Only 48 per cent of local authorities in England have sufficient childcare places to meet the demand of parents working full­time, compared with 59 per cent in 2022.

Stop and go

RENFE president Raul Blanco announced that Avlo low­cost trains will stop at all stations on Spain’s highspeed routes, while Renfe’s AVEs would make no stops at all or only in principal cities. Blanco confirmed that Avlos would eventually cover all AVE routes once the trains were available.

Pay ruse

PRET A MANGER will give staff their third pay rise in 12 months, following other firms including Tesco, in boosting wages to offset the labour shortage. The company said the rise, which begins in April, amounts to a 19 per cent increase in year­onyear pay for staff.

Wary EU suppliers

Linda Hall

TENSE EU relations are affecting the British economy, warned manufacturers’ group Make UK.

As the bloc’s suppliers grew more cautious about doing business with post­Brexit Britain, the trade body warned that the UK is lagging behind its peers and called for an urgent readjustment of political and trading relationships.

A survey of more than 100 leading industrial companies revealed that practically half said their EU suppliers had become more wary about doing business in Britain.

Almost a fifth had reduced

the number of their suppliers from the EU over the last year while the report revealed damage to the UK’s image and trading relationships was not limited to the EU. Suppliers from elsewhere were also

guarded about Britain, 35 per cent of firms agreed.

Speaking at Make UK’s national conference, its chief executive Stephen Phipson said the survey highlighted the need to build stronger post­

Upkeep blow

Brexit relations with Europe.

“We need to reset our political and trading relationship with the EU which has been marked by such rancour,” Phipson declared.

While applauding the British government’s positive approach, he also called for further progress after the Windsor Framework deal in Northern Ireland.

Prior to the Make UK conference, members had said that more than 40 per cent of manufacturers thought that last year’s political upheavals had damaged the UK’s image regarding direct investment, Phipson added.

Ethical diamonds in Trujillo

CALIFORNIAN company Diamond Foundry will open its second laboratorygrown diamond production factory in Trujillo, (Extremadura).

The 30,000­square metre plant’s 144 plasma reactors will start producing singlecrystal diamond chips in 2024, with total production eventually reaching 10 million carats.

While the plant will focus on producing industrial diamonds that can be used for semiconductors, it will also create traditional synthetic diamonds suitable for jewellery.

Martin Roscheisen, CEO of Diamond Foundry ­ one of whose principal shareholders is Leonardo Di Caprio ­ laid the symbolic foundation stone at a ceremony attended by the regional and local authorities as well as Territorial Policies minister, Isabel Rodriguez.

The Trujillo plant will cost a total of €245 million, €120 million of which has been provided by the Ministry of Industry’s Industrial Support Fund (FAIIP) with another €81 million provided by the Ministry of Economic Affairs.

The factory will be one of the world’s first industrial projects powered entirely by solar electricity which will be provided by a nearby 120­megawatt, 700­acre

MORRISONS have warned at least 83 property maintenance suppliers that their services are no longer required, endangering around 1,000 jobs.

The debt­laden supermarket chain, taken over in October 2021 by US private equity group Clayton Dubilier & Rice, will switch to a single provider for repairs and upkeep. Morrisons is also likely to lay off roughly 50 office staff who handle maintenance in Bradford and other locations.

The suppliers said they were warned their contracts might come to an end during a short video call in which they had not been able to ask questions.

Dual listing

solar energy plant supported by battery storage. This will be built in partnership with Spain’s leading solarpower provider, Powen.

Vitally important from Trujillo’s point of view, the factory will also provide 300 direct jobs, Extremadura’s regional president Guillermo Fernandez Vara said.

Abengoa solution

COX ENERGY GROUP presented an offer of €564 million to acquire all business areas of the Spanish energy and infrastructure company Abengoa.

The Spanish multinational, which specialises in energy transmission and distribution, has been in financial crisis since 2014 when its shares plummeted by 50 per cent.

Cox Energy, which is based in Mexico City and is present in Latin America and Spain, has indicated its willingness to as­

sume Abengoa’s €206 million of debt and guarantees for outstanding projects.

In addition, it would take on the engineering firm’s project financing debt of a further €252 million, as well as €22.8 million in outstanding Social Security quota, while guaranteeing payment of 100 per cent of Abengoa’s privileged credits.

A Cox Energy communique also pointed out that its offer guaranteed 9,500 jobs and would allow Abengoa to maintain its headquarters in Sevilla.

Ocado takes on Tesco

OCADO is now price­matching 10,000 Tesco items.

The online grocer’s announcement came as the company reported losses of more than £500 million (€561.6 million) in 2022.

Food prices began to surge last year after the war in Ukraine sparked a huge rise in energy costs and at the same time disrupted imported supplies of grain, vegetable oil and fertiliser. While prices at all supermar­

kets have risen during this time, the big chains are now in fierce competition to maintain their share of the market.

Ocado has price­matched Tesco in the past but had not done so recently. However, on March 1 it began comparing prices with 10,000 ‘like­for­like’ products on Tesco’s website and will give customers money off their next shop if their order would have been cheaper at Tesco.

SPAIN’S National Securities Market (CNMV) is analysing possible limitations for Spanish companies wishing to list securities in Spain and the US.

Rodrigo Buenaventura, CNMV president, explained that “numerous” Spanish companies traded on US stock exchanges via the American Depositary Shares (ADR) system of certificates deposited with a US bank.

“Some indexes, like Nasdaq, admit ADRs,” Buenaventura said. “Others, no.”

He stated that until now the CNMV has not received enquiries regarding the hypothetical difficulties cited by Ferrovial in listing a Spanish company in the US while registering shares in Spain.

Go ahead now

GOVERNMENT advisers want ministers to take control of the UK’s renewable energy system.

They needed to remove planning permission obstacles for Britain to meet net­zero goals, Chris Stark, chief executive of the Committee on Climate Change, explained.

The existing planning regime prevented construction of onshore windfarms despite official promises to remove barriers which, together with lack of investment, were delaying construction of connections to the national grid, Stark warned.

“It would be an enormous mistake to wait until the next general election to introduce new ambitious policy,” he added.

LONDON’S SILVERTOWN: Manufacturers aware of EU suppliers’ caution.

SYNTHETIC DIAMONDS: Guillermo Fernandez Vara welcomes synthetic diamond plant.

Photo credit: juntaex.es

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

TOLD you the left would never ease up hacking away at its rivals for the next year or so; how right I was. Still fully in league with the Union bosses, most strikes are still being kept rampant.

Pandemic errors, including drinks at ‘Drowning’ street and dodgy WhatsApp messages are still at the forefront. In fact the whole well foreseeable onslaught is positively nonstop.

Starmer is so convinced he will be the next prime minister, his speeches (which you notice keep getting extensive left wing media coverage) are absolutely crammed with the ingenious and (apparently) welcome ideas to get everyone out of trouble.

A veritable multitude of the ‘brilliant well­conceived steps’ his party has planned when they sweep into power.

His own pandemic soirees have of course conveniently been swept under the media carpet. It is actually so easy to rummage around other people’s problems and pronounce

Told you so

liberally what you would do to put everything right. The human race does this all the time. I do it, you do it; opposing politicians do it. It’s a walk in the park to state how you ‘need action’ to improve the neighbors fence or put on extra buses.

It’s actually fixing the problems that prevent you from ultimately solving the problems ­ which truly produces the problems ­ and frankly Labour are coming up with just about a workable zilch in this direction. Interestingly, in a Party, which already includes over 50 per cent of female membership, (go for it gals!) they have announced the appointment of Sue Gray as Chief of Staff.

The job comes just 10 months after this veteran civil servant was the senior staff member who led the official enquiry into Party Gate, an investigation which undermined and ultimately led to the resignation of Boris Johnson. Who better to be rewarded with a place of prominence in a possibly newly elected government?

Well, not only do I think the

RIGHT DECISION? OUR VIEW

whole selection smells to high heaven, but is also a distinct flavour of things to come should they get into power.

To be quite honest I think Starmer comes over a bit weak and pretty easily dominated.

Hold tight Starmer, you may be in for a rough ride. Rayner is already licking her lips! She still has problems raising a smile.

Probably waiting to be posed on the steps of number 10. Personally I’m all in favour. Not of the left, but certainly putting the girls in charge.

History is full of female dominance. Amazons, Queens, Conquering Warriors, World Leaders, Ex Wives. In Africa whole tribes of female warriors have dominated large chunks of its warlike history. Now there’s an interesting thought! Come on girls. Let’s get it on. Chariots of fire an’ all that. You know you love it really.

Keep the Faith Love Leapy/ leapylee2002@gmail.com expatradioscotland. Mon and Fri. 1pm till 4

FOLLOWING a week of dramatic twists and turns in the fate of Gary Lineker’s career at the BBC, the question now is; was putting him back on air ultimately the right decision?

The BBC ­ known worldwide for its emphasis on unbiased news ­ is one of the UK’s longest ­ running and best ­ known institutions. In turn, Gary Lineker is one of the nation’s best ­ loved former footballers.

His decision to tweet his opinion on the government’s rhetoric around the immigration crisis is, clearly, something that any individual should be free to do.

But should that individual then be able to keep their job ­ and, crucially, high salaryif they fail to play by their wage payer’s rules?

After a presenterless Match of the Day where all of Lineker’s colleagues refused to go on air without him, the BBC said they hadn’t backed down by resintating Linker and much was also made of the fact that he is a freelance presenter, not an employee.

However, despite Lineker’s doubtless good intentions over immigration, his desire to have both the cake (his wage and the fame the BBC gig brings him) and eat by disregarding what the BBC stands for.

LeapyLee’sopinionsarehisownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

Toxic alliance CASSANDRA

NASH

THE governing PSOE­Unidas Podemos coalition (UP) has always been uneasy.

Pedro Sanchez failed to form a government following the April 2019 general elections, although the PSOE emerged as the most­voted party.

He was reluctant to team up with UP, then headed by Pablo Iglesias and itself another uneasy alliance between Podemos and Izquierda Unida (IU).

Sanchez wouldn’t sleep easy, he maintained at the time to justify his decision to announce another election in November.

The PSOE was still the most­voted party the second time around but lost three seats, while UP lost seven. Frustratingly, the PP gained 27 and Vox won another 28 although Sanchez should have seen this coming, as the PSOE has consistently lost seats under his leadership. Worse still, his only option was a UP alliance, presumably less sleep­depriving than another election.

It has been an uncomfortable ride since then, although Pablo Iglesias did UP, if not Podemos, a favour by resigning and hand­

ing over to IU’s Yolanda Diaz.

Sanchez’s insistence on modifying Equality minister Irene Montero’s Right to Sexual Freedom Law ­ the Only Yes Means Yes Law ­ has now made matters immeasurably worse.

Replacing existing legislation, the new law was designed to protect victims who previously were expected to prove they were subjected to violence or intimidation if their aggressors were to be convicted of rape.

As has been explained ad nauseum, the law redefined prison terms for sexual offences but paradoxically 721 offenders have seen their sentences reduced, with some out on the street again.

The modifications were finally approved on March 7 to the disgust of Irene Montero who belongs to Podemos, which voted against the law and whose MPs made exceedingly inflammatory remarks about Sanchez, the PSOE and, naturally the PP and Vox, in the pre­vote debate.

Podemos is seething, IU is keeping quiet and the PSOE? Sanchez’s keeping his fingers crossed in hopes of riding out May’s municipal and regional elections and keeping afloat until the December poll.

By Clinica Britannia

The perfect treatment for you

OUR facial bones are what define and give structure to our face, with our skin acting as a protective layer over them. Age, lifestyle, and environmental factors can have a negative impact on our skin causing it to lose elasticity and wrinkle. With the help of Botox and Hyaluronic acid fillers your skin can be reformed to its former glory, giving you back that youthful and radiant look.

Botox injections are used primarily to reduce the appearance of wrinkles on the forehead and around the eye area by temporarily relaxing the muscle injected. They are also successfully used to treat excessive underarm sweating and chronic migraines.

Hyaluronic acid fillers are very versatile and have many different functions.

Restoring a youthful­looking appearance by filling lines and wrinkles and adding volume.

• Enhancing facial balance and harmony to the face.

• Smoothing wrinkles in areas, such as the cheeks, mouth, and nose folds.

• Refreshing and improving the smooth­

Get

ness, elasticity, and appearance of the skin for a radiant­looking glow.

• Enhancing the volume of the lips, giving them a natural fuller look, for that perfect pout. Wrinkles around the mouth area can also be smoothed.

Make an appointment now with our Aesthetic Specialist here at Clinica Britannia who can prescribe the perfect treatment for your individual needs.

Appointments Landline: 965 837 553 / 965 837 851 • 24H/365D Emergency Number: (+34) 607 255 755

Linda Hall

ON March 26 we lose an hour’s sleep, although as it’s a Sunday most of us manage a lie­in.

But even a minor time change affects the health, especially for the elderly or those with chronic illnesses, health professionals say. Interrupted sleep patterns are the biggest problem, skewing natural circadian rhythms, while hospitals note a significantly higher risk of heart attack during the two weeks after clocks go forward. Road accidents also rise.

Seniors suffer more than anyone else, doctors found.

For the first few days they recommend going to bed and rising at the same time to keep the internal clock on time, while laying off caffeine

NOT everybody can get outside to exercise, however much they would like to.

Clocking on Don’t stand up

That’s exactly why chair yoga, via free YouTube or Zoom sessions, can help adults ­ especially the over ­ 65sto enjoy all it has to offer in safety, however frail or lacking in flexibility they might be.

Benefits include loosening and stretching painful muscles, reducing chronic pain, decreasing stress, and

By Clinica Britannia

and alcohol.

Work up a sweat walking or cycling and enjoy the spring sun which helps to regulate natural rhythms, they said.

improving circulation.

Yoga also reduces anxiety, helps to lower blood pressure, protects joints and builds strength and balance.

There are no hard and fast guidelines on how often to practise chair yoga, although doctors and exercise experts recommend two days a week as a good starting point.

Get back that confident smile

DO you have damaged or missing teeth, that make you feel self ­ conscious when smiling or eating?

Then book an appointment with one of our dental professionals to discuss what treatment would be suitable for you, a dental crown or bridge could be just what you are looking for.

Missing or damaged teeth are not only aesthetically unappealing but can cause you pain, emotional distress, speech difficulties, issues with chewing and unnecessary wear and tear on your natural healthy teeth.

A dental crown is a tooth ­ shaped cap that is placed over a natural

DENTAL TREATMENT: Book an appointment now.

tooth, that has been cracked, broken, or weakened by large cavities or fillings over time, restoring the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance.

It is also very important to fill in the gap left by missing teeth, and dental implants are

not always an option. So therefore, a dental bridge can be a great way to restore and protect your smile. They are also a great alternative to partial dentures and can help you eat, speak more effectively, and give you back that confident smile.

expect.

SPRING FORWARD: An hour’s sleep lost when clocks change.

What the universe has in store

HELLO my angels, the card I have pulled this week is ‘Play’ where we have been going through the changes of different vibrations. We are almost through to the other side, spring is approaching and this puts everyone in a better mood.

We should be starting to feel more positive and clearheaded as we are all heading in the right direction, this isn’t to say there are still bumps along the way, but this again is a test from the universe to ask us if we are ready for the next step, how is the manifestation going from last week?

You should have noticed some changes, even if they are small, keep going with it and the universe will keep showing you more ways, it’s time now for a bit of ‘me’ time, take yourself back to when you were younger, around about 20ish. Your whole life was ahead of you, again where you

were single and having fun, a young parent, or more on your career, it doesn’t matter.

You still had plans and goals set out in front of you, you had all the time in the world. Now I am not saying act like you are 20 years old again, or am I? Think about one time in your 20s where you felt free and happy.

Yes you might say, well if I knew then what I know now I might have done things differently.

However again everything happens for a reason so let’s not focus in the would or should or could haves, I bet you can find a time where you felt really happy laughing with your family or friends.

Take that moment and hold on to it, recreate that happiness in what ever you’re doing at the moment, because life is for living not just existing. Yes there are things in life that we have to take seriously, but when you feel happy and you come up against a problem, how do you react when it happens? A lot less negative because you were all ready on a

high vibration to begin with, and this in turn will help you with your journey of manifestation and getting in life what you’re on your path to do.

Now you can read this and think well I haven’t got time to be doing this or how is this going to help me? Well you do have time, this is just an excuse, your ego has told you, you can get up earlier like we have talked about before.

You can make time, there are 24 hours in a day, eight of those you sleep through, two or more are worries and anxieties, eight of those are working hours, two of them are travelling around, 2.5 hours are in your morning routine and evening routine, watching TV, chilling out, trying to switch off. So why can’t you spend 15 minutes or half an hour making some me time? It will better your life.

Write in and let me know how it is helping you change your mind set. Remember to set your little goals each day. You are doing an amazing job, keep going…

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 for this week is ‘Play, have fun, don’t be so serious’

Helping you navigate the circle of strife

THEY do say that life comes round in cycles, and the team at Neater Heater are inclined to repeat a phrase that Derrick Trotter might say: “It’s Deja­vu all over again, Rodney.”

NEATER HEATER started life in the last cost of living crisis after the world’s economies were crashed by the banks in 2008. Primarily looking for ways to heat their kids’ bedrooms, Richard and Tony had both decided separately on electric heaters. However, when shopping around they had discovered that the ones on offer were either very expensive to buy, but not too expensive to run, or were very cheap to buy but cost a small fortune to run.

One thing they all had in common was that they were not very efficient. This story is told in detail on their website www.neatrheater.es but the gist is that through luck they discovered a Norwegian Convector heater that they could import at a reasonable cost and was cost effective to

run. It enabled them to heat a room for less money. It is not a magic solution, it is a solu tion borne of efficiency and effectiveness. It is like buying a more efficient car when petrol prices go through the roof.

They had a customer ­ let’s call him Geoff. Now Geoff had bought a couple of small oil

filled heaters from the ferreteria near him, but he wasn’t happy with them. He thought they were defective as his electrics frequently tripped when he was using them. He then called NEATER HEATER and told them the size of the rooms he wanted heating. Both small bedrooms at 9sqm. He was provided with two 600Watt heaters.

When fitting these heaters Tony and Richard looked at the small ferreteriabought heaters and saw that they were each 2,200 Watts. In total 4.4 kilowatts. Geoff said that they just about took the edge off the cold. (He also only had a 5kW allowance, so when he put the kettle on the electrics tripped). Anyway, his bedrooms are warmer now, his electrics no longer trip, and he is saving 3.2 kilowatts every hour! In fact, possibly more as NEATER HEATERS have thermostats to further reduce consumption.

NEATER HEATER ­ Letting your money go further.

Neater HeatersA solution borne of efficiency and effectiveness.

It’s probably too good to be true

FRAUD in the British expat community appears endemic but much of it is hidden by the victims themselves who are reluctant to come forward to report it to the authorities.

This reticence only feeds an industry that lives off the savings and income of people who had hoped to be able to live the dream in Spain.

The dream often becomes a nightmare and for some that nightmare starts almost on arrival in Spain. Sometimes the fraud is so blatant that one is left in a state of bewilderment as to how someone had fallen for it ­ but they did, they do, and they will.

We were alerted to a couple whose dream move from Britain to Spain hit the rocks on arrival. They were in their mid50s, had been working all their lives, working people with a work ethic and were looking for a new challenge. They did their research too ­ this was no spur of the moment decision but one they thought through. They decided to buy a business ­ a going concern which had

premises and what they liked was an apartment upstairs where they would be able to live while they made it work.

They went to a lawyer, they checked Facebook groups and took holidays to get acquainted with the area and its population ­ their new customers and checked out a few social groups in the area.

In this they met a man who seemingly was connected and respected in the communityhe told them their idea was a great one ­ in fact they were onto something. He also mentioned that he knew someone who had a similar business with premises and apartment which due to a need for an urgent sale was at a bargain price ­ they had to hurry of courseanother party was drawing up the paperwork.

Shoulder bag theft LETTERS

AS a resident of Spain for 35 years, 30 years as a CID officer in London and over 20 years working as a volunteer with the police in Fuengirola, assisting victims of crime, I know the crime rate is far lower here than in the UK, and intentional violent crime against members of the public extremely low.

As usual the service we had from all your waiting staff was superb and the kitchen staff outdid themselves producing wonderful plates for so many diners.

Out went common sense and in came the biggest mistake of their lives. They rushed through the sale ­ paid in cash at a notary ­ which later turned out to be a front and handed over all their life savings ­ in return for… nothing.

There was no business, no apartment and as quickly as he appeared he was off the scene. And as quickly their lives ruined and upended ­ the British Benevolent Fund were able to provide some emergency accommodation and a flight home. They filed a police report but as they left the country it wasn’t followed up.

The perpetrator is still out there ­ along with many others ­ if it’s too good to be true it really is… too good to be true.

olaf.clayton@british benevolentfund.org

Making a difference

SALLY UNDERWOOD POLITICAL ANIMAL

YOU are what you eat is an often­used phrase, but in politicial terms perhaps it’s ‘you are what you think’ that matters most.

One of the things that struck me most when I moved to Spain seven years agoeven after a career working in Parliamentwas how much politicial decisions, both large and small, affect every single part of our daily lives.

On moving here I was immediately struck, for example, by how easy it was to park for free almost anywhere; just one small policy made by local government over how many free parking spaces there would be in each area.

This small decision of course has far­reaching consequences; the ability for pensioners, the disabled, and busy parents to be able to park close to banks, schools and shops. The ability for small businesses to attract customers.

Of course, not every decision is a win and in time I began to value some of the UK’s

own policies more and more for their straightforward, time­saving logic.

The gov.uk website is one genuinely excellent example of this. Whether you want to submit your tax return at three minutes to midnight on deadline day, change a car’s legal ownership, or renew your passport, pretty much most paperwork can be handled with the push of a button.

And while Spain is glorious for many things ­ its weather, culture and stunning natural beauty included ­ making bureaucracy simple is not generally known as being one of those things.

Which raises the important point; it’s only by knowing that alternatives exist, that there is another way, that any sort of change is brought about.

Because we see something done one way repeatedly we begin to think of it as normal, yet that doesn’t have to be the case.

Perhaps what Spain’s plentiful free parking and the UK’s simplified red tape really shows then is how much governments seek to gain when they share ideas.

Those fundamental policy changes which make such an impact in everyday life may not be the easiest to push through, but they certainly make a difference.

Sally’sopinionsareherownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

The letter I believe gives a false impression. She does not say she was deliberately physically attacked. From my experience, it appears the 80­year­old lady was the victim of a bag snatch.

However she had a good quality shoulder bag, the strap of which did not break when it was snatched. The lady was pulled over with the force involved, banged her head and suffered a broken shoulder. The injuries she suffered were clearly not intended, albeit sadly serious.

John Carrington (80 years old)

No example

WE have just spent a week on Mallorca and picked up the last two copies of Euro Weekly Informative for the most part but horrified at the racialist tone of the Leapy Lee columns.

Our ‘non­white’ friends were clearly upset at the tone and implications of his writing. Our friends, like their parents, were born in the UK. How can it be they are not ‘an example of what the majority of UK districts represent’. Do we all have to look ‘white’ to represent our country?

The disclaimer you print under his column feels disingenuous. Freedom of speech yes, but publishing overtly discriminatory views should have no place here.

Joseph Williamson Sunderland

Driving rules

BILLY, Fuengirola, in a letter recently complained 70­year­olds renewing their Driving Licences will now be required to undergo a medical test every two years.

It appears Billy does not know that from one’s very first application for a DL in Spain, every renewal and exchange of a licence, one has always been required to pass a psychophysical examination at a Driver Recognition Centre.

For those 70 and over the test is free. So no big deal to ensure we are safe to drive

Elaine Gonzales (83 ­ year

Hi team La Scala

We loved the decor and table gifts we received from Michel at Euro Weekly, and if you could please pass on our appreciation of such thoughtful words and flowers that would be great.

We enjoyed our little VIP booth and being able to see all what was happening around the room as well as having ringside seats for Johnny and the sax lady. It was particularly good to see all the beautiful clothes the models from Mapuchi Moda were wearing. A big thank you to Sara and her girls for adding hugely to the afternoon’s entertainment.

Finally to think enjoying ourselves so much could raise such a huge amount for Dementia Support was absolutely lovely to hear.

old driver)

ON behalf of our table of ladies I would like to thank and congratulate all the team at La Scala for putting on such an excellent day yesterday.

Hi Leapy,

Richardson

Thank you and Kind Regards Jane

I READ your recent column with a wry smile. I am a 6ft former prop forward and no softie having been married to my lovely wife for 30 years. We still kiss numerous times a day and hold hands at all times while out and about.

She recognises what you said about the present range of over aggressive females. What really winds her up is the current TV advert fashion of the need for young females to have explained to them the intricacies of their periods and products for dealing with them and secondly the impression given that the menopause, like periods, never used to happen when she was young. How on earth did females manage back in their younger days?

What is the matter with young people today ?

Best wishes and keep going, Paul

Dear Editor,

Gidney

I was appalled to read the letter from Unhappy, Torrevieja regarding the violence she was subjected to when her bag was stolen. Hopefully she is recovering physically, though it will have a lasting effect on her.

My husband had his bag stolen just over a month ago. It was a distraction theft and fortunately he was not injured but was shocked to be a victim after being so careful.

It would be interesting to know if anyone who has experienced this kind of theft has ever had any documents or personal possessions recovered.

Several friends and family members would also greatly appreciate the return of the Codeword in your newspaper!

Yours sincerely,

Glenda North Ciudad Quesada

Olaf Clayton of BBF.

Scottish veterinary crisis

THE veterinary sector in Scotland is facing a workforce crisis.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has published an action plan to tackle the problem, insisting that changes must be made to avert serious problems.

According to the organisation, the Scottish veterinary sector is struggling to cope with increased pet ownership during the Covid pandemic, the impact of Brexit on the workforce and the long ­ standing problem of a sector with a poor work ­ life balance.

Spokespeople warn of increasing danger of burn ­ out among workers, with fewer qualified vets and greater workloads.

In addition, pet owners are said to be becoming increasingly demanding, leading to many workers reporting growing cases of abuse and the threat of physical violence.

Scotland currently has two vet schools in Glasgow and Edinburgh, with a third set to open in Aberdeen later this year. The aim of the new vet school is reportedly to get students into practice early so they can experience life as a work ­

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Basset Hounds’ DNA

THE UK’s Kennel Club has now approved a new official DNA test reporting scheme for Lafora’s disease.

Lafora’s disease is an inherited form of epilepsy. Affected dogs usually begin to show signs (jerking or fits) from around five years old and gradually become worse over time, eventually leading to ataxia (not being able to walk in a straight line), blindness and dementia.

While it can afflict any breed of canine, it seems to be most often found in the Miniature Wirehaired Dachshund, Basset Hound and Beagle breeds, with the Beagle breed seeming to suffer more severe cases of it.

The disease is described as autosomal­recessive. This means that a dog must inherit two copies of an abnormal gene (one from its mother and one from its father) before its health is affected.

From August 2018, in the UK it is mandatory the dog’s microchip (or tattoo) is recorded along with either the dog’s registered name or registered number on any DNA certificates. Any test results issued after that date that do not carry these identifying features will not be accepted.

ing vet earlier in their studies.

The plan is also to move away from all vets being straight ­ A students and encouraging a holistic approach to the profession, sourcing students from the highlands, islands and rural areas.

Advertising Feature

Some guidelines to dog epilepsy

A DOG with epilepsy can enjoy a remarkable quality of life if given proper veterinary treatment. For this, it is important that some guidelines are followed.

1. Complete the clinical diagnostic protocol. Do all the tests to rule out other pathologies that can cause seizures.

2. Administer the appropriate medication.

3. Carry out medical check­ups every six months.

4. Stay calm during an epileptic seizure of your dog. Remember to videotape the attacks. The videos to see how the attacks happen provide the veterinarian with a lot of information.

5. Avoid stressful situations for the animal, which may put it in danger.

In the attached QR code you have an informative video about canine epilepsy.

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

A new vet school is soon to open.

Image by 135pixels/Shutterstock

NORAJOHNSON BREAKINGVIEWS

THE UK’s got on and off strikes all over the place, a government at war with itself, inflation through the roof, the NHS in meltdown, war in Europe, a vegetable shortage and nothing works any more. And don’t get me started on flippin’ potholes. Or those intense bearded chaps doing nine­course tasting menus from reconditioned barns, celebrating ‘nature’s bounty’.

And then we read that a restaurant in Mayfair is selling the most expensive tins of seafood money can buy: £31 for a can of tuna or cockles for £56. Not to mention the Michelin­starred Welsh restaurant, Ynyshir, with its £350 tasting menu lasting five hours. With reservations reportedly snapped up immediately, most diners stay the night in the restaurant’s attached rooms (from a further £145 a head).

My flabber’s never been so gasted!

Well, that’s all very well for the likes of Tristan and Jocasta Gallivant­Jodhpur, Jemima Moneybags­Cashpot and Sophia Excess­Capital, but what about the rest of us?

I know the difference between the haves and have­nots is a minor problem compared to world peace, reality TV and why the slow­

The Haves & Have-Nots

uncertain. These restaurants are known for offering an unparalleled culinary experience, using the finest ingredients, employing highly skilled chefs and staff, and providing a level of service that is unmatched in the hospitality industry.

But with rising costs and economic uncertainty, there are many who think twice before shelling out large sums of money on a single meal. In addition, the economic uncertainty brought on by the pandemic further exacerbated this issue, with many losing their jobs or experiencing a reduction in income.

There are some who warn that high­end Michelin restaurants must adapt in order to survive. This could involve reducing prices, offering more affordable options or finding ways to streamline operations to reduce costs.

pivoted to this model during the pandemic and did a brisk trade. By offering high­quality meals that can be enjoyed at home, they could reach a larger customer base and generate more revenue.

However, there are some who believe that such restaurants should not compromise one iota on quality or price, but instead focus on providing an even more exceptional dining experience in order to justify their sky­high prices. This could involve offering more innovative and unique dishes, sourcing even higher­quality ingredients, or providing an even higher level of service and attention to detail.

So, it’s hard to see how Tristan and Jocasta Gallivant­Jodhpur, Jemima Moneybags­Cashpot, Sophia Excess­Capital and their mates need worry. There’ll always be the Haves and Have­Nots in the world.

est van’s always in front of you, but that’s seemingly how things are now in the worldsic Ford Transit gloria mundi...

Admittedly, the future of high­end Michelin restaurants during a cost­of­living crisis is

One potential solution is to offer a more casual dining experience. Many of these restaurants have strict dress codes and reservation policies that can be intimidating for some diners. By offering a more relaxed atmosphere, they might be able to attract a wider clientele.

Another option is to focus on takeout and delivery options. A number of restaurants

PS. I am available to solve any of the world’s remaining problems, for a small fee. (#piousface).

Nora Johnson’s 11 critically acclaimed psychological crime thrillers (www.nora­john son.net) all available online including eBooks (€0.99; £0.99), Apple Books, audiobooks, paperbacks at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

Nora Johnson’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

Nora’s latest thriller.

Noraistheauthorofpopularpsychological suspenseandcrimethrillersandafreelancejournalist.

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

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

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

MB ELECTRICS. Approved electrician. Any electrical repair. Iberdrola paperwork. Affordable prices. Miquel 655 282 175 www.mbelectrics.es (286325)

561, (WhatsApp) info@beneficial insuranceinspain.com or visit www.beneficialinsuranceinspain. com for online quote. (302516)

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

MISCELLANEOUS

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

MOTORBIKES

PETER ZWAAN MOTORBIKES, A+ Occasions showroom, Honda NC700D, 700cc, yr 2012, 16.000 kms, Euro 3.200 . CostaBlan caMotorbikes.com (302078)

MOTORING

2/3 BEDROOM HOUSE FOR LONG TERM RENT ASAP. 2 BATHROOMS/GARAGE. CONSIDER SHARED POOL. FOR RETIRED COUPLE IN MORAIRA/CALPE/TEULADA AREA. APPROX €800 - €1000 PM. EMAIL: marianshort. france@gmail.com. TEL: 0034 623 373 426 (294629)

REMOVALS/STORAGE

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

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

ROLLER SHUTTERS

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

El Campello Christian CommunityLife and Family Sunday Service at 11am Bilingual (English and Spanish) at C/ San Bartolome, 35 (Bajo No. 6), El Campello. For more information visit www.elcampe llochristiancommunity.org , email campellocc@gmail.com or call Juan Zúñiga - 686 203 183 (Spanish) or Sue Bishop - 610 639 426 (English) (233602)

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)

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

HEALTH

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 (302420)

FED UP OF NOT BEING SENT YOUR RENEWAL? CUT YOUR INSURANCE COSTS AND STILL HAVE 100% COVER. YOU HAVE TRIED THE REST NOW TRY THE BEST WITH SOS INSURANCE. WE CAN EVEN INSURE YOU FOR UP TO A €1,000 OF WATERLOSS. CALL 686 116 297 (WHATSAPP TOO) OR VISIT www.sosin suranceinspain.com or email tracey@sosinsuranceinspain. com (301484)

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

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

MASSAGE

FRENCH, ELÉGANTE, SLIM SOPHIE, 3 languages spoken. Experienced in a large variety of full body massages. Villamartin apartment or can travel to all areas. 693 357 526 (295411)

RELAXING MASSAGE FOR MEN - Mario qualified masseur in Alicante - Special Massage for Men - 7 days 10am to 10pm - APPOINTMENTS visit: www.masajeyrelax.es/en or WHATSAPP 649 761 607 (302598)

RELAX CENTRE in BENIDORMExcellent atmosphere. Expert Masseuses. 24/7 Outcalls - Tel: 603 324 564 (302452)

NATURIST male gives relaxing massage. Half price 1st time offer €25. For men and women. Private premises in Jávea, WhatsApp Rob on 613 831 380 (303049)

METALWORK

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

AUTO BASTIAN mobile mecha nic. 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

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

SITUATIONS VACANT

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

OTHERS

VIAGRA / KAMAGRA / CIALIS. BEST PRICES. FREE DISCREET DELIVERY. ALL AREAS COVERED. TEL: PETER 644 139 274

MALE/FEMALE viagra, cialis, kamagra jelly, mixed trial packs available, all areas mail order. 604 385 476. viagra4you19@gmail.com

PAINTERS/DECORATOR

DECORATORS W.D. GILMOUR. Painter & Decorator. Established 35 years in Moraira. ESTIMATES FREE. Call William on 609 691 776 or 966 490 602 (301487)

PETS

NEED YOUR PETS TAKEN CARE OF? Not kennels, just a friendly home. Large fenced area. 699 790 080 Altea (294597)

PROPERTY WANTED

RETIRED couple looking for long term rental in La Marina Baixaprefer two beds. Needed urgentlycall Janice on 0044 7736 251 800

FED UP PAYING TOO MUCH FOR YOUR MOBILE PHONE CALLS? THEN CONTACT TELITEC TODAY. CALLS TO SPAIN 7C PER MINUTE INCLUDING MOBILES. CALLS TO UK 5.3C PER MINUTE. NO MONTHLY FEES, NO CONTRACT. WWW.TELITEC.COM TEL: 902 889 070 (2001)

TRANSLATIONS VAN SERVICES

SPANISH INTERPRETER for all your appointment needs, has car. Effective, Friendly & Affordable service. Call 609 679 808 (290313)

STEVE’S MAN WITH A VAN. DELIVERIES, REMOVAL OF RUBBISH. BENIDORM, SU RROUNDING AREAS. 633 930 477 (295260)

Polestar 2 - cool, trendy and capable

byMarkSlack

MENTION electric cars to even the least car aware person and it’s highly likely they’ll talk Tesla. It’s been the EV brand of choice and remained relatively unchallenged.

However, there’s a similarly cool, trendy and eminently capable rival in the form of the Polestar 2. While not carrying the sleek and smooth exterior of the Tesla, the Polestar, part of the Volvo stable, has a determined and muscular stance. Inside there’s a definite Scandinavian vibe with a range of stylish treatments from light wood and fabrics to Nappa leather and black ash veneers. It’s a very nice place to be seated.

A large central screen, which still doesn’t cut it over buttons in my view, is reason

ably intuitive with exception

ally clear graphics. Although

the interior is definitely minimalist there’s no loss of premium feel. As with the exterior of the car it’s the archetypal less is more effect that has been executed so well by Polestar.

Standard features across all Polestar 2 models includes automatic lights and wipers, heated powered seats, 19inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, high beam assist, adaptive LED rear lights, navigation, climate, keyless entry and start, auto lights and wipers, wireless charging, electric steering with three modes and Apple Car Play

and Google built­in ­ although having to say ‘Hey Google’ to execute commands is somewhat of a gimmick in this writer’s view ­ and one of the best standard in ­ car audio systems. Four extra cost option packs are offered depending on model.

On the power front you can specify a standard single motor, a long­range version and then a long­range dual motor. The range varies with the configuration, but 321 to 395 miles is the variance. In real world terms think of de­

creasing these figures by about 10 per cent and you probably would be about at your real­world range. In my experience the Polestar comes close to meeting its mileage expectations. As with combustion powered cars range depends on how you drive. These range figures aren’t quite up to Tesla standard, but they’re still very useable and, considering the weight and style of the Polestar, most impressive.

On the road the Polestar has a certain something

terventionist when activated. With prices starting from €55,327/£44,950 it’s an EV that merits much praise and one which is an increasingly frequent presence on the road.

POLESTAR 2: An EV that merits much praise and is an increasingly frequent presence on the road.

ROAD TEST

True legend dies at 76

DICK FOSBURY, the legendary athlete and Olympic gold medalist who invented the ‘Fosbury flop’ passed away at the age of 76.

It was revealed on Monday, March 13, that Dick Fosbury, the legendary highjumper who invented the ‘Fosbury flop’, passed away on Sunday March 12, at the age of 76.

It was disclosed that he had been suffering from lymphoma for some time.

The American athlete revolutionised the sport when he became the first to attempt jumping over the bar backwards during the 1968 Olympics.

Fosbury won the gold medal in Mexico City, clearing the bar while it was placed at 2.24 metres (7 ft 41 ⁄ 4 in) to set a new Olympic record. His innovative style was subsequently used by numerous high jumpers as they approached the bar, as opposed to their previous scissor kick technique.

“Our sport lost a true legend and innovator today with the passing of Dick Fosbury. He invented the ‘Fosbury Flop’, was a gold medallist at the 1968 Games, and remained an advocate for athletes his entire life. Fosbury’s legacy will live on for generations to come,” tweeted the USA Track & Field account.

Michael Johnson, the iconic American sprinter who won four Olympic gold medals

Schedule change

CRICKET IRELAND has now confirmed it has agreed to a schedule change that will see Ireland Men’s tour of Sri Lanka in April become a two­match Test series in Galle.

The previously advertised bilateral schedule saw the two sides playing a single Test and two One Day Internationals (ODIs), however, it was mutually agreed that the two ODIs would instead become a Test Match.

The tour dates will not change, with the scheduled arrival of the Irish squad being on April 9 and departure on April 29.

Richard Holdsworth, High­Performance

Director at Cricket Ireland, said: “When we were approached by Sri Lanka Cricket about the possibility of a change to the schedule, our immediate thoughts were around our white­ball priority, given the potential 50­over World Cup qualification later this year still being a tangible outcome.”

He added: “Talking through our priorities and their priorities, we agreed to the late change given that the Test series is preceded by six white­ball matches in Bangladesh, and followed by three further ODIs after we return home.”

and eight World Championships gold medals in the span of his career, tweeted: “The world legend is probably used too often. Dick Fosbury was a true LEGEND! He changed an entire event forever with a technique that looked crazy at the time but the result made it the standard.”

“RIP 1968 Olympic gold medalist and high jump legend/pioneer Dick Fosbury, who passed away on Sunday. Condolences to his family and friends. Godspeed, Fos, from an eternally grateful sport,” wrote Ato Boldon, the Trinidadian sprinter, and four ­ time Olympic medal winner.

DICK FOSBURY: The legendary Olympic gold medalist has died at the age of 76.

Image: Ato Boldon/Twitter

Tour dates will not change.

Image: Lance Bellers / Shutterstock.com

Lewis Hamilton speaks out

SEVEN-TIME world champion Lewis Hamilton has raised concerns about his underperforming Mercedes F1 car claiming the 2023 model ‘was not the right car’.

After placing fifth during the Bahrain Grand Prix, Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton has spoken about how the 2023 model had not been performing well. ished over 50 seconds behind the race leader Max Ver stappen from Red Bull said that “Mercedes did

not listen to him,” during the development of this year’s Formula One car.

“Last year, there were things I told them. I reported the issues with the car,” said Hamilton during the BBC’s Chequered Flag podcast.

He added, “I’ve driven so many cars in my life. I know what a

car needs. I know what a car doesn’t need.”

The 38­year­old driver also said “I think it’s really about accountability, it’s about owning up and saying, ‘Yeah, you know what? We didn’t listen to you. It’s not where it needs to be and we’ve got to work’.

“We’ve got to look into the balance through the corners, look at all the weak points and just huddle up as a team. That’s what we do,” Hamilton continued, adding “We’re still multiple world champions … just haven’t got it right this time. Didn’t get it right last year. But that doesn’t mean we can’t get it right moving forwards.”

The next Formula One race is now set to take place in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, March 19, followed by the Australian Grand Prix on April 2.

Against racism

THE second LaLiga Week Against Racism kicked off on March 14 and will run until March 21, the World Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

The aim of the campaign, launched in partnership with EA SPORTS, is to raise awareness of the importance of eradicating racism in all areas of society.

It was created precisely as part of the commitment that both partners have, aware that they are a major influence, especially among the younger generation.

Javier Tebas, president of LaLiga confirmed:

“Putting an end to racism is one of the objectives of LaLiga. We already condemn racist comments that are heard on the pitch and we have just created channels for fans to help us identify and report offenders.

“This second Week

Close House play host

CLOSE HOUSE will host this year’s International Series Golf England as many emerging worldwide talents are set to take on the Lee Westwood Colt Course this summer in the north east of England.

The $2 million tournament will be played from August 17 ­ 20 and

represents the fifth stop on the International Series in 2023.

The International Series England made its debut last summer and was a landmark event for the International Series and Asian Tour as it marked the first time the Tour had staged an event in the United

Kingdom.

Close House Managing Director, Jonathan Lupton, said: “Welcoming The International Series back to Northumberland for a second consecutive year is an exciting development.

“Having had the pleasure to visit the International Series Oman in

February, it was fantastic to see the growth of the Series over the last year and we’re looking forward to working closely with the Asian Tour to create a memorable event in England.”

The Scott Macphersondesigned Lee Westwood Colt Course will be used for the tournament.

Against Racism helps us to raise awareness in society and to take further steps against racism.”

On this occasion, the artistic group Boa Mistura, who created the main axis of the campaign, the word UNITY, also joins the second Week Against Racism.

“This word symbolises the union of all of us together in the face of racism,” they confirmed.

LALIGA: Raising awareness of eradicating racism.

LEWIS HAMILTON: Said it was not the right car.

48.7 % was the ratio of female athletes in the Olympics of 2020.

New start and finish for Tour de France Barça in trouble

THINGS are getting complicated for FC Barcelona over the ‘Ne greira case’.

Almost a year has passed since the Public Prosecutor’s Office began an investigation into the payment of €7.3 million by the club to José María Enríquez Negreira, vice­president of the Technical Committee of Referees from 1994 to 2018, between at least 2001 and the same year in which he left the position.

The long process culminated on Friday March 10 with the formalisation of the complaint against Barcelona and former presidents Sandro Rosell and Josep María Bartomeu.

The Public Prosecutor’s Office accuses the club and the former directors of alleged crimes of corruption, disloyal administration and false documentation, considering that the club had a ‘strictly confidential verbal agreement’ with the former referee to guarantee ‘actions tending to favour Barça in the decision making of the referees in the matches they played’.

On Sunday March 12, Real Madrid announced its intention to join the prosecution against Barcelona, and on Monday March 13, the national government’s Sports Council also confirmed their intervention.

Current Barça president Joan Laporta has admitted the payments but refuses any wrongdoing, insisting that receiving assessment from acting referees is “a common practice among professional clubs.”

THE 2024 Tour de France will finish outside Paris due to the celebration of the Olympic Games in the French capital.

The tour will end in Nice with a time trial, something that has not happened since 1989. Thirtyfive years ago, American Greg Lemond won in the final time trial ahead of Frenchman Laurent Fignon by just eight seconds.

This time, it will be a time trial for climbers, with 35 kilometres starting in Monaco and including an ascent of the Col de la Turbie with its summit at 12 kilometres, before tackling a climb up part of the Col d’Eze.

Once at the top, the racers will have 17 kilometres of descent towards the sea, with the finish line in Nice, on the famous Prom­

enade des Anglais.

Next year’s edition of the Tour will also be special for another reason, with the race starting from Florence ­ the first time it has ever begun in Italy.

After Copenhagen in 2022 and Bilbao in 2023, the departure from the Tuscan capital will be the third consecutive time that the event will start from a foreign city.

Women’s cycling

AGAIN, this year, the Tour of Scandinavia: Battle of the North 2023 will be staged in Norway and Denmark.

The greatest women riders will sprint to the finish line in Haderslev on Sunday August 27 after racing for more than 700 km over six stages from Mysen in Norway.

The Tour of Scandinavia is a Scandinavian stage race of World Tour­level crossing through three countries: Denmark, Sweden and Norway.

Spectators along the routes will have fun and festivities and the opportunity to once again experience the intense drama of

cycling, just like at last year’s edition and the start of the Tour de France in Denmark.

For years, Denmark has positioned itself as one of the world’s best cycling nations and destinations. With the Tour of Scandinavia this summer, Denmark stays in the lead. The race will showcase the Danish DNA of cycling from elite to cycling for all. The final stages are organised so both riders and spectators get the best conditions: flat, fast stretches, hills, and curves, and finally a mountain sprint, which could be decisive for the overall standings.

TOUR DE FRANCE: The tour will end in Nice in 2024.

Image by ChiccoDodiFC/Shutterstock

Current Barça president Joan Laporta. . Image by Christian Bertrand/Shutterstock