Costa del Sol 30 March – 5 April 2023 Issue 1969

SIMPLY STUNNING

ONE of the Costa del Sol’s brightest gems, Mijas pueblo, has been named as the only town in Andalucia on a list of the most beautiful parts of Spain to spend spring.

El Periodico’s prestigious Viajar magazine has praised the whitewashed town for its winding streets and classic Andalucian looks.

Explaining why Mijas is such must ­ visit in spring, the magazine said: “The flowers of Mijas are the protagonists during spring. The white facades of the town of Malaga

are covered with small pots overflowing with flowers, creating an incredible maze of colours in the heart of the Costa del Sol.”

It is not the first time this globally ­ famous destination has attracted the spotlight. Both big British and American titles have previously named Mijas as one of the most important places in Spain to visit for its traditional beauty and buzzing local businesses.

Turn to page 2

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

SEE OUR SUPPLEMENT PULL OUT INSIDE PAGES 28

MIJAS: Has been named the best place to visit in spring.

Coastal corridor

ESTEPONA City Council has now inaugurated a new stretch of the coastal corridor in the western part of the municipality.

The new section of the coastal corridor links the Arena Beach urbanisation with Guadalobon. This has enabled the connection of residential areas which until now had been cut off from each other.

The mayor of Estepona, Jose Maria Garcia Urbano, explained that this is a “sustainable, strategic, priority and high­impact” project for the city, which has meant preserving the coastline, enhancing its value and creating a new tourist attraction."

He added: “We are very close to reaching the end, as there are few areas of the municipality still to be completed.”

The Estepona coastal path project to link the entire coastal strip by means of these pedestrian paths is well advanced, having already connected more than 21 kilometres of the municipality, that is, more than 90 per cent of the entire coastline.

Revolutionary admin service

FUENGIROLA Town Council has made history by becoming the first council in the country to offer administrative services through video calls. The new system was unveiled on Tuesday, March 21 and aims to make residents’ lives easier.

This new system uses biometric authentication to provide residents with basic documents, such as a certificate of residency, without having to leave their homes.

Local mayor, Ana Mula, was the first to test this innovative system out and highlighted the importance of using technology and innovation in public services. She explained, “We are once again at the forefront

of the use of new technologies to improve the quality of the services we provide to residents.”

The video call system has already come into effect in several departments including Social Services. Residents can request a video call appointment by sending an email to the relevant department, and will receive a link with a specific date and time for the call.

During the call, council staff will attend to residents’ needs, while the resident will be required to prove their identity through a vocal biometric signature.

easyJet offers 1.8 million seats

EASYJET announced on Monday, March 27, the introduction of more than 1.8 million seats in the summer season in its seasonal base in Malaga.

The Costa del Sol airport will offer links with 15 different destinations, including a new connection to Lyon in France, which will have two weekly frequen­

cies from June 3.

In a statement, Javier Gandara, the general manager of the airline in southern Europe, said that Malaga: “has always been a great bet for easyJet in Spain.”

The airline representative recalled that the Costa del Sol is one of the most popular destinations, espe­

cially for travellers from the United Kingdom. This is evidenced by the fact that the company offers connections with London­Gatwick, London­Luton and Bristol for this summer season.

In addition to the company’s commitment, the tour operator easyJet holidays is also committed to promoting tourist activity in the

city and over the years has built up an extensive portfolio of hotels in the region. The reopening of the seasonal easyjet base in Malaga has also coincided with the restart of operations at the company’s base in Mallorca, with another 2.5 million seats available, as reported by a news source.

Fuengirola mayor, Ana Mula tests out the council’s pioneering digital administration appointment services.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Fuengirola

Doggy joy

COIN has opened the doors of its first dog park with more than 1,000 m2 and several play areas. It is located in Calle Aguilas in the Felix Rodriguez de la Fuente urbanisation. The work took three months to complete and required an investment of around €60,000.

Rich pickings

EACTIVOS has decided to auction 30 plots of land in the municipality of Mollina valued at more than €28 million. The parcel, located at the 138th exit of Molina, stands out for its connection with Algeciras and Gibraltar.

Artistic requiem

LOCAL Marbella artists have recreated in black different parts of a tree, such as a trunk or the branches. They are now on exhibit in the central Avenida del Mar to raise awareness of the importance of conserving the municipality’s arboreal mass.

850 pros

THE week commencing March 27, Marbella is hosting a new edition of the Traveller Made Association Congress, which will be held at the Adolfo Suarez Trade Fair and Congress Centre and will bring together more than 850 professionals, twice as many as last year.

Nutritional bust

TEN people have been arrested in the province of Malaga in an operation against drug trafficking and alteration of the composition of nutritional products. More than eight tonnes of nutritional products and nearly 400 kilogrammes of illegal medicines have been seized.

Winter therapy

THE Global Gift Foundation will use a grant from the Diputacion Provincial de Malaga to cover the swimming pool of the multifunctional centre for children with special needs that it manages in Marbella.

Town Hall triumph

Betty Henderson ESTEPONA threw open the doors to its new state ­ of ­ the ­ art town hall on Wednesday, March 29. The new building is set to modernise the council’s operations, bringing them into the 21st century with a sustainable building to match.

The spacious new building boasts seven different floors, including a basement for public parking, and an aestheticallypleasing lattice exterior design which makes the interior light and airy. The main public areas are located on the ground floor. The multipurpose Plenary

Estepona’s futuristic new town hall opened its doors for the first time.

Hall is on the first floor, and the upper floors house offices for council workers.

The new building is a symbol of Estepona’s commitment to providing a

174

great quality of life for residents with its modern design. The building is also revolutionary in terms of sustainability, powered entirely by solar power. The new town hall also features artwork by local residents and a sculpture paying tribute to elderly residents.

Councillors held an inauguration event the following day on Thursday, March 30 as the new building opened. It was described as a symbol of Estepona’s progress, fusing traditional Estepona with the modern town it is with modern architecture and sustainable features.

Beaching in Benalmadena

BEACHGOERS will be pleased to hear that Benalmadena’s beaches are to remain fully accessible during Easter Week.

The mayor of Benalmadena, Victor Navas, confirmed: “We want to report on two important works that have been ongoing on the beaches of Benalmadena.

“The first is the construction of the semi­submerged breakwater, which is now

STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Inhabitant milestone

BENALMADENA has just passed the milestone of a whopping 75,000 registered inhabitants, according to the latest data confirmed by the National Statistics Institute (INE).

a reality after 25 years of requests to the government.”

He added: “The second is the sand contributions to compensate for the loss during storms. This is carried out every year after Easter and before June which is the optimum period for the works in the Costas because that is when the eastern and western storms end.

“These two initiatives are in addition

New horizons

YOUNG people from across Europe came together in Torremolinos on Thursday, March 18 to work on exciting projects as part of the Erasmus programme. Two Italians, three Portuguese, and two Irish students arrived to work on agriculture, administration, and ITprojects at Los Pinares de Torremolinos.

The inclusive educational centre, which promotes diversity and encourages students to have experiences with people from other countries, has been collaborating with the Erasmus programme since 2018. This initiative, founded in 1987 by the European Commission, aims to fund international exchange programmes for students across the European Union.

Participating students do not only gain knowledge and experience in their respective fields, but they are also immersed in different cultures,

traditions, and languages during their exchange trips. Students get to learn about each other’s customs and ways of life, building bridges of friendship, and creating a truly international community.

The programme was a fantastic opportunity for the students to explore new horizons and gain unique insights into their fields of study. For example, through the administration and IT projects, students gained hands­on experience in critical aspects of the corporate world.

to the investment we have made to renew the beach equipment and furniture to offer the best possible service to users this summer.”

The mayor also stressed that any work of this magnitude “generates inconvenience, and for this, we apologise: we are working to minimise the inconvenience, but the general interest and the progress of the whole city must always prevail.”

Festival of light

THE president of the Provincial Council Francisco Salado announced on March 29 that La Termica’s 10th anniversary will be celebrated with the first festival of light in Malaga.

The festival will be held on April 14 and 15 between 9.15pm and 1am, and will be free to access by reserving tickets on the La Termitica website prior to the event.

It will feature a total of 10 immersive light installations and six audiovisual shows, creating a tour of the 14,000 square metres of the centre’s facilities and offering a unique experience to visitors.

Salado explained that it will feature a total of 34 artists, architects, visualists, sound artists and music producers of national and international prestige.

Salado said: “Without a doubt, La Termica is one of the projects of the Diputacion de Malaga with which we feel

most proud. A space that houses culture in all its aspects. An inclusive, diverse space, open to citizens and visitors.”

Programme and reservation of free tickets is available at www.latermicamalaga.com/l

ux­festival­de­artes­luminicasde­malaga/

The mayor of Benalmadena, Victor Navas, said “Surpassing the 75,000 registered inhabitants will mean an increase in the income we receive from other administrations.

“We are going to have more resources and means at our disposal, which will help us to regularise certain situations of foreign residents: in Benalmadena, there are already more than 140 different nationalities.”

The mayor added: “Thanks to surpassing this threshold, the town hall will increase its income by €2 million per year.

“It is no coincidence that we have exceeded 75,000 registered inhabitants, but the result of good planning and hard work.”

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Estepona (via Facebook)

Students from across Europe came together in Torremolinos for a range of projects .

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Torremolinos

MIJAS has a brand­new petanque court thanks to the growing popularity of the game in the region. Local mayor, Josele González opened the new court in Parque La Butibamba on Thursday, March 16.

The new court has boosted the park’s petanque courts to three, meaning that more players can enjoy matches at the same time.

Opening the court, González explained the growing demand for more space for petanque, “We initially installed a petanque court on the beach, which worked really well. We are expanding to three petanque courts in La Butibamba Park to cater to the

Bowled over

large number of players we have in the Caleño area.”

He added, “Every day, Spanish, English, Irish, Dutch, and Belgian communities gather in this outdoor space to enjoy the sport, thanks to the excellent climate we have in Mijas.”

González also described the sport as “a beautiful way to

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

meet and socialise for our older residents.”

After pausing during the pandemic, the La Cala Mijas Petanque Club is more active than ever. Today, they have 54 members, and the numbers keep growing, according to Miguel Benitez, the club President.

SAVE the date for the upcoming processions taking place in all the towns and regions throughout the Costa Del Sol. One of the most important events in the Spanish calendar, the processions are to commence in Malaga from Sunday April 2, to Sunday April 9. The first procession to be ‘La Pollinica’ around 10.15am on Sunday, April 2 and the last procession will be ‘El Resucitado’, at 10.00am on Sunday April 9.

Easter processions

that will run from Plaza de la Constitución and take you through the stunning architectural streets of Malaga from, Calle Larios, Martínez, Mercado Central ­ Atarazanas and Torregorda, Alameda Principal, Plaza de la Marina and Molina Lario.

Each procession will be starting from different brotherhoods and churches, heading towards the official route for the processions

WITH a small change of date in the celebration of the event, the Malaga Motorcycle Show, better known as MOMA, returned to the facilities of the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos of the city to celebrate its sixth edition from March 24 to 26.

The good weather accompanied the weekend, which favoured the good reception of MOMA 2023 with thousands of attendees at the event, many of them travelling

The processions will be taking place every day, except for Saturday April 8 and are something you will not want to miss. The processions will be taking place throughout various towns small and large, so expect a procession close to you in Benalmadena, Fuengirola, Torremolinos, Coin, Marbella and more.

€3 million success

from other Andalucian provinces and corroborating the broad convening power of the show.

A total of 55 brands filled the Palacio, offering fans a unique opportunity to see first­hand the latest launches of the main brands and dealers in the region. These included the new

Moto Guzzi V100, the Zontes D305, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and Super Meteor 650 and the KTM 890 Adventure. Commercial success for the participating exhibitors who, according to initial estimates, will have achieved a turnover of around €3 million, a figure that is sure to increase over the coming weeks, when the numerous open operations throughout the event are closed.

Members of Mijas’ international community gather at the opening of a new petanque court in La Cala.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Mijas

“Where a woman rules, streams run uphill.”

An ancient Ethiopian proverb meaning that women are key game changers and can make wonderful things happen. There is struggle in an uphill endeavour, but a miracle in its very existence.

MARBELLA Council has completed the children’s playground located on the intersection between Ashmawi and Príncipe Alfonso de Hohenlohe boulevards, it was announced on March 19.

The finalising of the 350 square metre park means Marbella now has 2,000 square metres of new playgrounds created in its legislature. Mayor Angeles Muñoz and councillor Diego Lopez visited the new recreational space, Muñoz said: “this plot housed a dog park that has now been moved to another nearby one because we understood that this was an ideal space to meet the demands for more recreational spaces for children, as expressed by residents of the area.”

The park is inspired by the world of insects, featuring large elements that represent a butterfly, an ant, a ladybird, a grasshopper and a bee, with slides, sliding tubes, swinging bars, tunnels climbing walls to enjoy.

A two­metre ­high fence has been installed around the park to ensure it is a safe space and sustainable lighting has also been improved with columns of LED lights and the replacement of the manholes.

EMERGENCY services in Marbella conducted an impressive fire drill at the Hard Rock Hotel on Tuesday, March 21.

The drill aimed to ensure that emergency services are prepared to provide the best possible response in risk situations.

The councillor for Safety, José Eduardo Díaz, explained that these types of drills are part of the Local Emergency Plan, saying they “help us develop a faster and more efficient response” by assessing the situation on the ground.

Recreational area

Football tournament

THE 12th edition of the international grassroots football tournament in Marbella will be hosted in the city from April 5 to 8. The event will feature more than 900 players from across the country, with 70 teams and 150 matches to be played.

Councillor Manuel Cardeña said that the event comes at a time when there is a sports break for football clubs and that high­class clubs are expected to be participating. He also said of “the economic boost the championship brings to the city,” with an estimated impact of around €1 million.

The organiser of the tournament, Ramon Gomez, said that “more and more teams are joining this event” and that the inaugural parade will take place on Wednesday, April 5. The preliminary phase will be held on Thursday April 6 and Friday April 7 at the different facilities, and the finals will take place on Saturday, April 8, in the fields of San Pedro Alcantara.

Always prepared

Díaz highlighted that since the plan was launched, “we’ve carried out different exercises in various different settings to keep our emergency services well­oiled.” The drill saw members of the Fire Department, Local Police, National Police, Guardia Civil, the Red Cross, and staff from the Costa del Sol Hospital take part to prepare their responses.

Díaz added more detail

about the emergency situations that the City Council wants to be prepared for saying, “we’ll continue to conduct tests to improve our response to forest fires, oil spills in port or maritime areas, and road and mountain rescues.”

He thanked the hospitality industry for collaborating, saying that Marbella is a particularly important area to protect due to its economic significance.

Marbella tourism booming

MARBELLA is almost at the occupancy levels it saw in 2020, the highest record in history, with a noticeable rise in foreign visitors.

According to latest data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE), the city saw a hotel occupancy of 49.05 per cent in January 2023 and 54.15 per cent in February.

The general director of Tourism, Laura de Arce, said: “these are very positive figures for the sector because they are much higher

than those of 2022 and very close to those of 2020, the year in which the best first twomonth period in history was recorded.”

The Dutch tourism market has seen the highest growth “with a rise that is close to 50 per cent compared to 2019 and 2022”, while the British “increases almost 40 per cent compared to the past exercise and remains at similar levels in February,” de Arce added.

A new park inspired by insects has opened in Marbella.

May Crosses

THE Estepona Town Hall has now opened the deadline for the competition for the best May Crosses.

The registration period will remain open until April 14.

The jury will choose the best Crosses on Saturday, May 6, and award prizes of €1,000, €500, and €250 plus five runners­up prizes of €100.

Those interested in participating can consult the rules on the notice board of the town hall’s Electronic Headquarters https://estepona.sedelectroni

ca.es/board/, and download Annex I.

The Annex must be submitted completed, accompanied by a photocopy of the identity card of the person responsible, through the town hall’s Registry Office, addressed to the Delegation of Culture and Festivities.

The jury will value the beauty of the Cross, the ornamentation of the place where it is installed, the adaptation to tradition, and the craftsmanship and details used.

BENALMADENA has confirmed that it is renewing its beach furniture in preparation for the start of the tourist season.

The mayor, Victor Navas, confirmed: “Our beaches are already being updated in preparation for their imminent opening for the arrival of Easter, with a significant investment of close to €500,000 in beach equipment.”

“Every year we manage to renew the blue flags, and this is a consequence of the quality of the services we offer, but we want to go further: our goal is to achieve more accessible beaches with excellent services, which requires significant investment.”

MIJAS is now involving school students to help with the tourist promotion of the La Cala coastline.

The students of the four schools of the seaside resort have participated in ‘Explora La Cala’ where they explain in Spanish and English through videos the benefits of the cultural and natural heritage of the coastline.

The project includes 12 points of interest where the town hall has installed QR codes so that

Student help Upgrading

He added: “We are continuing with our plan to improve the beaches in the run­up to Easter: we are improving and incorporating new material and furniture on all the beaches in the town.

“Sixteen new footbaths, four showers and 20 platforms for water drainage will be added to the beaches.

“This acquisition is part of the grant we received to make Carvajal beach accessible, and also includes six new lifeguard and toilet modules.”

tourists and locals can access all the information in an audiovisual way narrated by the children.

With this project, the children of Mijas are once again playing a leading role in the promotion of tourism in their town, this being the third consecutive year that they have participated in a tourist action.

The councillor for Tourism, Jose Carlos Martin, confirmed: “They are our best ambassadors and lis­

tening to them is an excellent learning exercise because the ideas they come up with and the enthusiasm they put into each project, they not only transmit it to us, but also to our visitors.”

New tunnel opens

THE long­awaited Gibraltar runway tunnel will open on Friday, March 31, at one minute past midnight.

This new tunnel will mean that, for the first time since 1941, drivers will no longer have to cross the runway and will not be held up when planes land or take off.

The new tunnel has taken almost 15 years to complete after a series of setbacks. It will be the only regular access point for all cars and motorcycles, including commercial vehicles to and from Spain, Gibraltar International Airport, Eroski su­

permarket, Western Beach and Four Corners.

As of Friday, only pedestrians, scooter/escooter riders, cyclists and mobility scooter users will be permitted to cross the runway.

The tunnel provides a two­lane road in each direction accessible via Devil’s Tower Road, and a separate subway providing a safer route for pedestrians, cyclists, scooter/e ­scooter riders and mobility scooter users to travel through the tunnel, via a footbridge accessible from Eastern Beach.

Celebrating the role of optometrists in safeguarding our health

FOR World Optometry Day

(March 23) Specsavers Ópticas highlighted optometry as a healthcare profession.

Optometrists are qualified professionals who take care of their customers’ eyes and monitor and manage eye conditions related to diseases like diabetes, and common conditions such as glaucoma.

Amina Ghezelani is an optometrist at Specsavers Ópticas in Fuengirola, who has extensively trained to be able to offer the best care possible. She has a degree in optics and optometry and a masters in optometry and advanced vision. She is passionate about the important role that an optometrist plays in healthcare.

“I think optometry is a great profession. I love to be able to help my clients to take control of their ocular health and vision. It’s very satisfying to be able to have a positive impact on their lives by providing solutions

CREDIT: SPECSAVERS

to their visual problems and ensuring their eyes are healthy.”

On World Optometry Day, here are her five tips for good eye health.

1. Get an eye test every two years ­ Optometrists are highly trained to look out for eye conditions and signs of serious medical conditions. If necessary, they will refer you directly for further medical examination or treatment.

2. Protect your eyes from the sun ­ Wear sunglasses which offer high UV protection and comply with quality standards.

3. Keep diabetes under control ­ Diabetics are at risk of developing diabetic

AMINA GHEZELANI: She is extensively trained to be able to offer the best care possible.

retinopathy, a condition which affects vision. To avoid problems, keep blood sugar levels, blood pressure and cholesterol levels controlled.

4. Quit smoking ­ There is a significantly higher risk of eye disease in smokers. Stop smoking to halt or possibly even reverse damage to the eyes.

5. Eat a diet rich in antioxidants, especially carotenoids ­ A healthy diet can encourage good eyesight and help reduce the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.

Comprehensive eye tests are free at Specsavers Ópticas. www.specsavers.es.

Retirees reclaim gardens

FIVE allotment gardens were handed back to the retired and elderly community in Mijas during a ceremony on Monday, March 20. The five community gardens are located in the Las Lagunas area of the town and are set against a scenic backdrop of the mountains and the coastline.

The local mayor, Josele González, proudly handed over the keys to the gardens to retired members of the community who can now enjoy learning new gardening skills in the tranquil setting.

Mijas now has around 200 allotment gardens spread between La Cala and Las Lagunas, open­

A WHOPPING total of 890 athletes of up to eight nationalities passed through Torremolinos throughout the month of March to carry out preparatory sessions in different sports disciplines in the town’s facilities.

There were 27 football teams, six swimming teams, four athletics teams and two multi­sports teams staying in the town, contributing to the deseasonalisation of the municipality during the winter period.

The presence of these 890 athletes in the municipality had a direct impact on the economy of the town, which is firmly committed to so­called sports tourism as an element to diversify the offer of the municipality and encourage the presence of visitors throughout

air spaces where the older people can get active and socialise.

Local councillor for the Elderly, Tamara Vera, also spoke at the ceremony saying “In recent years, we have made significant improvements to these allotment spaces, from common areas that improve the aesthetics of the gardens to the creation of shade areas for beneficiaries to rest, and even the installation of toilets.”

In exchange for the garden space, members agree to plant only flowers, vegetables, fruits, and keep the space clean and free of branches and debris.

Sports surge

the year.

Last year a total of 2,172 sportspeople from 15 countries passed through Torremolinos, visits which had a direct economic impact of €1,197,940.

The climate, the extensive hotel facilities, the sports facilities and the proximity of Torremolinos to Malaga international airport make the town the spearhead of a tourist segment which complements the traditional sun and beach offer and which adds to the aspiration to break the seasonal nature of the sport.

Betty Henderson

LA CALA DE MIJAS is making waves in the world of music festivals. The debut edition of Cala Mijas Festival, held last September, won two prestigious awards at the Iberian Festival Awards in Oporto, Portugal earlier in March.

In an exciting result, the festival was named ‘Best New

S for Sustainability Fame for festival

Festival’, recognising its creativity and originality, as well as its ability to attract and retain a diverse audience of music fans. The festival also won the award for ‘Best International Live Performance’ for the electrifying show given by

the British band, The Arctic Monkeys.

These latest accolades follow the festival’s win for ‘Best Revelation Festival’ at the Fest Awards, and its recent entry into the B Corp community. The awards are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the festival’s organisers, who are committed to creating an unforgettable music experience which is also sustainable and technologically advanced. The mayor of Mijas, Josele González, expressed his pride at the win saying, “These awards are a boost for us to continue working, with even more enthusiasm, on the second edition of the festival, which will take place later this year.”

FABULOUS Fuengirola has achieved the ‘S for Sustainability’ certificate for all of its beaches. This new award recognises the excellence of Fuengirola’s coastline.

It comes in addition to the Blue Flags, the Q for Tourism Quality as well as the Universal Accessibility certificates for the whole of the town’s coastline.

The municipality has become one of the 20 towns in the country to achieve this new environmental seal.

The mayor of Fuengirola, Ana Mula, confirmed: “We have been receiving national and international recognition for many years, which guarantees that we have the best beaches in Spain.

“Now, in addition, we can say that these spaces are 100 per cent sustainable thanks to this new certificate from such a prestigious body as the ICTE.

“We are one of the first 20 cities in Spain to achieve this and it is a source of pride for

MIJAS is promoting the plan to complete the remodelling of the motorway connection with the dual carriageway in Calahonda. The councillor for Infrastructures and Works, Jose Carlos Martin, has reported that the drafting of this project has already been completed and will go out to tender for a total of €3.5 million with a

Road plan

completion period of six months.

all the people of Fuengirola.”

The mayor added: “My thanks go to the beach professionals such as beach bars, hamaqueros, owners of leisure plots, the users themselves and of course, all the municipal workers who work every day of the year to ensure that everything is in perfect condition.”

pedestrian traffic.

The project includes a complete remodelling of the road as well as the construction of two roundabouts and new pavements to improve both road and

The councillor confirmed: “This route is one of the busiest as it handles practically all the traffic in the area. We are going to widen the number of traffic lanes in order to improve road traffic and, of course, we will renovate and implement the rest of the services.”

The mayor of Fuengirola, Ana Mula.

Image: Fuengirola City Council

A wonderful evening

ON March 23, the Costa del Sol community came together to support and raise funds for a cause near and dear to everyone’s hearts proudly sponsored by the Euro Weekly News , for the ongoing and current crisis that is being experienced in Turkey due to the recent earthquake.

Guests arrived to La Scala in stunning cocktail attire and were greeted with a Champagne reception on arrival, with twinkling lights and a welcoming ambiance, the tone was set for a glorious night ahead.

There was a tremendous raffle and silent auction filled with the glamorous prizes to win and choose from, spanning from Paquiao signed boxing shorts, restaurant vouchers for over €300, boat trips and more. Speaking with guests, the Euro Weekly News found out how much events like the Turkey fundraiser help and bring the local community together.

evening said, “I am looking forward to help raise money for a well ­ deserved cause. Nights like these show just how much of an abundance of love the Costa del Sol has and how we all really care about the community and hopefully we raise lots of money for them.”

Stuart Brennan said, “Fingers crossed there is plenty of money raised tonight to go to such a great cause.”

Sharlene Ball said, “This is a fantastic venue, attentive staff, always smiling, doing the best they can for everyone and this isn’t my first time here to attend a charity event. The food is consistently good, it is beautifully decorated and we are excited to be part of something so special, to raise money for a great cause.”

John Maxwell said, “it is a very good cause and I am glad we can contribute, I hope it is a good night and that the outcome is successful for the charity, which is of course the most important part.”

In attendance was Remedios Bocanegra, the Foreign Residence Delegate of Marbella, she said, “Tonight

is a great event to show solidarity with those who are suffering in Turkey. We have over 140 foreign nationalities living in Marbella. It is a great city and expatriates can count on our support.”

Raising upwards of €4,000 the evening was filled with entertain ment and most importantly encour aged those who had come along to donate and raise money for Turkey. With spectacular entertainment from Masquerade Duo, Quike Navarro House Violin and Gary B Poole, guests were on their feet dancing and singing the night away. A fabulous night was had by all, raising money for a well ­ deserved cause.

Giles Brown MC of the

New easier guide

A GAME-CHANGING guide is now published, aimed at those who dream of living in Spain but who are concerned they may find the process and regulations daunting.

Produced by Age in Spain, a Spanish charity which has supported English speakers in Spain for more than 30 years, Moving to Spain: a complete guide takes the reader step­by­step through all that is involved in making the move. It describes how Spain works: how to apply for the right visa, what to do when buying a property and how to bring your car or pet. The guide also explains why it is essential to plan ahead, especially for health care

and social services that might be needed later.

There’s guidance to help the reader decide where in Spain would best suit them to live, and an introduction to the culture of Spain that will be of interest even to those just visiting on holiday.

And because it’s an ebook, there are links to live interviews with people who have already successfully made the move, as well as links to public information websites which means the guide will stay up­to­date if regulations change.

It’s free to download from https://www.agein spain.org/moving ­ tospain.

President of Age in Spain, John Rafferty, a

Scot who has been living in Spain for 15 years, said:

“Spain is the most popular European destination for people who retire and want to enjoy all the benefits of a Mediterranean lifestyle. It’s also popular with younger families who want to live and work here.

“The guide is designed for UK citizens and the many others from non­EU countries who wish to live in Spain, but there’s lots of information that will be of interest to anyone who speaks English and is interested in how Spain works.”

The e ­ book has been produced with support from the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Natural park revived

Betty Henderson

THE final touches are being put on in a major renovation project at Fuengirola Natural Park, which is tipped to be the perfect family­friendly destination for engaging, ed­

ucational fun.

Representatives from Fuengirola Town Hall took a visit to the park earlier in March ahead of the project’s completion, where they announced their delight with

the new look park.

The park boasts a new addition of exciting children’s play areas that are sure to entertain the little ones, including a lifelike T­Rex, complete with tunnels, slides, and swings. Aptly named ‘The Dino’s Nest’, this playground area is designed to spark children’s imagination and creativity. Alongside this, the park also features a 20 metre long zip line, sensory play zones, swings, and two large slides.

The renovation also aimed to provide more space for families and groups of all ages. A new central plaza is perfect for hosting events, and a picnic area with barbecues has been thoughtfully set against the lush greenery, where new plants have also been added.

The project costing nearly €2.5 million is just one branch in Mayor Ana Mula’s steadfast commitment to making Fuengirola a great place to live.

Easter Eggstravaganza

Plant fair

WHETHER you are an avid gar dener or just like to dip your toes in the garden scene there will be something for everyone at Benalmadena’s 16th Plant Fair.

The fair is set to run from April 7 until April 9.

Musicals at the salon

specimens, which are rare to see at other fairs,” the councillor added.

SINCE the opening of the Salon Varietes theatre in Fuengirola musicals have always been the highlight of the year.

IF you are looking for some Easter ­ time shenanigans, hop to the Easter Bonnet Parade in La Cala de Mijas on April 9. The event is being held at Bar Tuta, Jardin Botanico in La Cala De Mijas to raise funds for the Lions Diabetic Support Group.

If you would like a great afternoon out with lots of fun, laughter and prizes

then this is the one for you.

Why not make an Easter Bonnet and enter the competition who knows you may win a prize.

The fantastic John Sharples will be your congenial host in the afternoon so you will be assured of a good laugh.

For just €10 you can enjoy lunch and a welcome drink.

Grab your tickets from the Lions Charity shop on Calle Torremolenos in La Cala de Mijas.

Start decorating your bonnets now or simply come along and join in the fun.

For more information head to the Lions’ website www.lacalalions.org or call Anne Bowles on (+34) 607 879 450.

The councillor for the Environment, Joaquin Villazon, confirmed the Plants Fair will be held in La Paloma Park and “This year it will once again coincide with Easter, and will feature some 60 exhibitors from all over Spain.

“The fair which has free entry offers the public very beautiful and spectacular

Carmen Tellez, from the FCC company (the fair’s sponsors) and in charge of the maintenance contract for La Paloma Park, recalled that the event began as a cactus and succulent fair, “and has ended up evolving to include all kinds of collectable plants.

“The fair is also an unbeatable opportunity to visit La Paloma Park, which is currently at a time of great beauty with the arrival of spring,” she added.

Brisa Festival

SUMMER and the good weather bring with it music and in Malaga during these months festivals and concerts seem to take place one after the other.

Among the events to be held this summer in the capital is the Brisa Festival, which returns for its third edition to benefit the Red Cross with numerous national artists and the desire to continue promoting local talent.

Expect many new features this year.

The festival will have activities throughout the month of July that will end in the Plaza de Toros de La Malagueta, on July 21 and 22, with concerts including various artists.

Until now the Brisa Festival included Malaga bands who performed in different neighbourhoods of the capital.

This year these Malaga bands will be joined by 15 more from the rest of Andalucia meaning a total of 40 bands will perform at the Festival which means there truly is something for everyone to enjoy.

Then the pandemic struck everyone and was particularly cruel to theatres. Evita had to be cancelled because actors could not move around the stage.

In stepped Oliver Leiva and reconstructed Evita to play to a very appreciative audience where the actors could not move around but he was able with his vision to put on an excellent show.

Attendance was low at the theatre as people were afraid to go out and so it was a great pleasure to see at last things come back to normal and the theatre was packed out for the last night of My Fair Lady.

John Gale, who has been involved in the theatre for 30 years and has played major parts in musicals and plays arranged to direct this latest musical. After weeks of rehearsal the show was on the road and was amazing.

The whole cast were superb and gave a 100 per cent perfect performance.

Congratulations John Gale and everyone involved in the production.

LOOKING for fun ladies?

The Cazbah Ladies’ night will create an experience you will never forget and leave you talking about it for a lifetime.

It’s the ultimate male entertainment experience in Mijas.

Whether it’s a hen party, divorce party, birthday party, work event, or a fun girls’ night out, Cazbah

Ladies Night is here to bring a higher level of entertainment to excite your souls and tantalise your fantasies.

Book your tickets on the website www.eventbrite. es and search for The Cazbah or, pay at the bar (cash only).

Doors open on Friday, March 31, and Saturday, April 1, at 8.00pm and the

show starts around 9.30pm.

All seating is first come, first serve (unless you have disabled or medical issues in which case contact (+34) 602 535 710 to arrange your seating).

The Cazbah Live Lounge is at Avenida de Jerez, 29649 Las Lagunas de Mijas.

EASTER BONNETS: Start decorating yours now and go along and join in the fun.

Image: La Cala Lions

Family Beatles Band

Image: 360b / Shutterstock.com

INTRODUCE your children and grandchildren to the English Rock Band ‘The Beatles’.

The Beatles are regarded as the most influential band of all time and were integral to the development of 1960s counterculture and popular music’s recognition as an art form. Cabaret Garage is pleased to offer Los Beatles en Familia which is a didacticmusical experience of an unforgettable concert for the whole family. This is an event where adults and children can discover the history of the Beatles while they participate, sing and dance.

Los Beatles en Familia is a fantastic didactic show with

THE BEATLES: An unforgettable concert for the whole family.

the classics of the famous band by the great band, SilverBeats, accompanied by clowns, Pin and Baba, that will delight the younger generation with their fun occurrences during the show.

Los Beatles en Familia is on

FANS of hit songs from the 1950s and 1960 are in for a treat as Peet Rothwell heads to La Sala in Marbella.

Peet has a versatile, mature voice which in a very young man is a rare thing.

The talented singer who was born and raised in North Wales can move you to tears with his repertoire from Michael Buble and his style and charisma take the stage in their simplicity.

at Cabaret Garage, Av. de los Guindos, 19, 29004 Malaga, on April 16 starting at midday. For more information head to the website https://www.lacochera cabaret.com/ call: (+34) 952 246 668.

Swinging 60s

You can catch Peet on Monday April 3 at 8.00pm at La Sala Puerto Banus, C. Juan Belmonte, s/n, 29660 Marbella. Reserve your table either by email: info@LaSalaBanus.com or by phone: (+34) 952 814 145.

PHOTOGRAPHY fans will be pleased to hear the Garum Photography Exhibition by Antonio Gonzalez Caro is on display in Estepona until April 13.

The almadraba is an ancient fishing art, existing since the time of the Phoenicians when they already used it on the Cadiz coast.

It consists of installing a maze of nets in the passage of the bluefin tuna, when it goes from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean Sea, to reproduce.

The fishermen take advantage of this migratory movement to lead the tuna to their nets, where, once gathered, they proceed to capture it.

Garum is a photographic project that shows this type of fishing from a more personal, deeper point of view, creating an atmosphere that transports the viewer to this

universe, in a different way.

The exhibition can be viewed at the Casa de las Tejerinas, Plaza de las Flores, 29680 Estepona, Malaga from Tuesday to

Friday, from 9.00am to 8.00pm, and Saturdays from 9.00am to 2.00pm then from 4.00pm to 8.00pm.

For more information call (+34) 952 809 000.

Photography Exhibition Monkey Tennis

MONKEY TENNIS is a talented English band that formed on the Costa del Sol over 20 years ago.

They are still going strong and still rocking ready to play all of your party favourites, playing covers from Paul Weller to Stevie Wonder, Coldplay to Pink Floyd.

Incredibly versatile Monkey Tennis is enjoyed by everyone of all ages.

To catch Monkey Tennis on Friday, April 7, at 8.00pm, head to the Cascada Cocina y Bar, Urbanisacion La Montua, 39, 29602, Marbella.

For more information or to book, head to the website: info@cascadamarbella.com or call (+34) 623 001 465.

Parking is available in front of Cascada and alongside the two ­ kilometre street to the right of the restaurant. You can park on the cul ­ de ­ sac street without worrying about blocking any access.

COYA Life is Coming to the Coast

EXCITEMENT is building around the arrival of COYA in Marbella this Easter, as it brings one of the world’s most innovative lifestyle brands to Puente Romano Beach Resort. If you haven’t already visited COYA in other parts of the world, you are in for a fabulous surprise, and an authentic and transformative Latin American experience that appeals to the young and the young at heart.

Since it first launched in London’s Mayfair in 2012, COYA has been introducing its heady experience of Peruvian cuisine, pisco cocktails and music to Paris, Mykonos and Monte Carlo, as well as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Riyadh. Its arrival in Spain is special, as it celebrates its 10th anniversary with its 10th restaurant opening.

Most importantly, it’s the first COYA in Spain, and has chosen Puente Romano Beach Resort. Yannis Stanisiere, COO of COYA commented, “this opening is even more special for us, being the first COYA to ever open in Spain, and the fourth in Europe. While Marbella is already globally associated with exceptional tourism and residential offerings, we continue to realise the forward-thinking vision of the brand by launching an all-year-long open-air dining venue, nestled right along Marbella's charming Golden Mile of the Costa del Sol.”

Discover your Inner Inca

COYA is more than a restaurant. It’s a global destination, a culture, a luxury lifestyle. A place where guests are taken on an immersive journey to Latin America through exceptional, authentic Peruvian food, innovative pisco infusions, cultural events and unforgettable parties.

We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone to COYA when it opens, and hope we’ll see you there ready to discover your ‘Inner Inca’.

Country classics

COUNTRY music fans need to keep Thursday April 13 or Friday April 14 free in their diaries as Johnny G and Melissa Carver offer you a spectacular evening of country hits.

Head to the Salon Varietes in Fuengirola where you will find Johnny G and Melissa Carver performing country hits from the 50s, 60s and 70s, with a few contemporary country anthems thrown in as well. The duo will dazzle you with their sweet harmonies and some of the best country duets, as well as hits from Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Glen Campbell, Bobbie Gentry, Neil Diamond, Karen Carpenter

Masters 2023

and many more.

If that’s not enough, the evening will be rounded off with a featured tribute to the 70s Country Hits of Elvis Presley! With special guests Violet Wetherall and Brian Piccolo, plus gorgeous ‘Cowgirl’ dancers and backing singers.

Salon Varietes Theatre is located at C. Emancipacion, 30, 29640 Fuengirola, Malaga.

For more information or to book tickets head to the website www.salonvarietesthe atre.com or call (+34) 952 474 542. The theatre box office is open 11.00am until 2.30pm Monday to Friday and one hour before each performance.

GOLFING fans on the Costa del Sol are in for a treat on April 5 as Marbella’s Los Naranjos hosts its highly anticipated Masters 2023 Trophies.

The list of illustrious past winners will soon be honoured in perpetuity, as Los Naranjos is creating a new honours board in their Hall of Fame and brass plaques on locker room doors.

The greens, with Penn A4 grass, are spacious and slightly undulated.

Since its opening in 1977, Los Naranjos has been the host of several major competitions, including the Spanish Open, and is ranked one of the best golf courses in Spain. Los Naranjos is located at Pl. de Cibeles, S/N, 29660, 29601 Marbella. For more information or to book your slot, head to the website: losnaran jos.com or call the club on (+34) 952 812 428.

“WE are moving from the era of big forest fires to mega forest fires in Spain,” said Pablo Martin Pinto, wildfire expert from Valladolid University, warning that vast blazes like the Sierra de la Culebra wildfire last year, were "here to stay”.

Sierra de la Culebra, in Castilla y Leon, located in

Mega fires predicted

the northwestern region of the Iberian peninsula, was ravaged by fires last June and July, with more than 65,000 hectares burnt ­ a fifth of the total area affected by fires in Spain last

year.

The blaze also claimed four lives.

The fire damage has meant the town will lose its annual income of €80,000 from selling firewood, says

mayor Antonio Juarez. In 2022 Spain suffered nearly 500 wildfires that devastated massive

swathes of land, with experts warning that such California ­ style fires are likely to increase.

Spring has only just begun in Spain, and some 700 firefighters have already been battling Spain’s first major forest fire which has so far burnt through some 4,000 hectares of land, forcing 1,500 people to flee.

Five arrested for pigeon theft

THE men, aged between 16 and 20 were intercepted by the National Police in Alicante, when they were allegedly returning from having stolen competition pigeons from a bird club in Benidorm. They would have forced the cages where the birds were found to take them and transfer them to Alicante. Officials attached to the North District Police Station intercepted the vehicle with five occupants.

The police realised the occupants were ner­

vous and elusive when questioned about the origin of the pigeons they had in the car with them. After investigations, it was found they were stolen and the men were charged with robbery. It is not the first time these competitive birds have been stolen, due to their high value within the world of pigeon racing. Pigeon racing is the sport of releasing specially trained homing pigeons, which then return to their homes over a carefully measured distance.

Phantom of the Opera

MUSICAL theatre fans will be delighted to hear that the Malaga ­ born and based actor and director, Antonio Banderas, recently spent time attending the auditions for the new Spanish production of Phantom of the Opera.

Banderas has confirmed he is collaborating with Amigos Para Siempre (APS) and Andrew Lloyd Webber, to create Spanish ­ language productions of the musical across major global markets.

The Phantom of the Opera is a musical with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, lyrics by Charles

Hart, and a libretto by Lloyd Webber and Richard Stilgoe.

Based on the 1910 French novel of the same

name by Gaston Leroux, it tells the story of a beautiful soprano, Christine Daaé, who becomes the obsession of a mysterious, masked musical genius living in the subterranean labyrinth beneath the Paris Opera House.

The show’s initial run in Madrid will start from September 22 until November 11 at the Teatro Albeniz Umusic Hotel, Madrid Calle de la Paz, 11, 28012.

For more information or to book tickets head to the website: https://umusic ­ hotels.com / or call (+34) 911 231 099.

Banderas attended the recent auditions.

Image: Antonio Banderas / Twitter.

Composer’s son dies

IN a video posted online on Saturday, March 25, the legendary composer Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber announced the sad death of his eldest son Nicholas. The 43­year­old had been battling gastric cancer and was recently moved into a hospice.

“I am shattered to have to announce that my beloved elder son Nick died a few hours ago in Basingstoke Hospital. His whole family is gathered together and we are all totally bereft. Thank you for all your thoughts during this difficult time,” Sir Andrew said.

The composer has earlier posted a video message on Instagram saying that his son had been moved to the hospice: “I want to thank you for the outpouring of messages of support for my son, Nick. He’s now been moved into a hospice and he’s battling away.

“I’m going to go see Nick in a minute and I’m going to pass on all of the fantastic wishes that I’ve had for him from everywhere all around the world,” Sir Andrew added.

In 2021, Nicholas scored his father’s original cast album for ‘Cinderella’, which earned him a Grammy nomination.

Game show to return to TV screens

AFTER seven years, the iconic ‘Deal Or No Deal’ game show is set to make a triumphant return to British television screens. The new reboot will be hosted this time around on ITV, by Stephen Mulhern, according to a news source.

Its return was confirmed in a statement by ITV, revealing there will be new­look prize boxes. The format remains unchanged, as contestants attempt to beat the ‘banker’ and hopefully win a huge cash prize. Noel Edmonds fronted the original show on Channel 4, from 2005 to 2016.

Mulhern has already cemented himself as a top host on ‘Catchphrase’ and more recently, ‘In For A Penny’. Speaking about his new role, he said: “Wow what an opportunity, I’m beyond excited to be hosting the brand­new series.

“I’ve always been such a huge fan of the show. It looks so simple but it’s an incredibly compelling game for both those playing and the viewers. I can’t wait to get started,” he enthused. The legendary gameshow regularly attracted huge viewing figures during its 11­year run.

Sir Lloyd Webber facing a difficult time.

Credit: Twitter@OfficialALW

One woman hit maker

THE Song Writers Hall of Fame is dominated by men but Holly Knight is the amazing exception having written some of the best ­ selling songs of all time.

She started off as a pianist as a child, went through a rebellious period, leaving home in New York as a young teenager before becoming a member of band called Spider which saw her compose her first minor hit. Quite early on in her career she discovered that being a ‘rock chick’ and musician she had to fight enormous prejudice and sexism but went on to write or co­write hits for performers such as Aerosmith, Pat Benatar, Bon Jovi, Chaka Khan, Cheap Trick, Heart, Kiss, Meatloaf, Ozzy Osbourne, Patty Smith, Rod Stewart, John Waite and most fa ­

mously of all, Tina Turner.

In fact, Tina Turner has recorded no less than nine of her compositions, perhaps the most famous being The Best (originally recorded by Bonnie Tyler) which after a relatively slow start became one of the most played songs from the 1980s which is still hugely successful today.

In her new book, I Am The Warrior she reveals all about her 40 plus year career which has seen her have two marriages and affairs with some of rock’s greatest stars including several members of KISS.

From the very beginning she recognised that she would have to fight to be accepted as a musician and songwriter but was determined to do it on her own terms without having to use

sex to climb the ladder.

She admits that sometimes it appeared that she was in the right place at the right time and having managed to meet highly successful song writer and producer Mike Chapman who had hit it big in the UK writing scores of hits with Nicky Chinn for artists like Sweet, Racey, Suzi Quatro, Mud and Kim Wilde, before he moved to Los Angeles where Holly was taken under his wing. Pretty soon though, they had co­written Love is a Battlefield for Pat Benatar and from there, working with Chapman and other writers and artists, the rock hits just kept rolling in.

Much of what Holly did was ideal for the newly opened MTV music station and she found more and more of her compositions

being promoted both on radio and through videos on MTV.

Talking about the book,

Holly said “I’ve been fighting my whole life for the things that mattered to me. It started when I was a child but as I

got older, I was able to articulate in a more elegant and creative manner what was most important to me: independence, autonomy, expressing my own voice, anarchy in all its glory, and, essentially, telling people to **** off in a clever way.”

Summing up, Tina Turner said in the foreword to I Am The Warrior “It seems a lifetime ago that I first heard The Best.

“It’s not a song that I’ve carried ­ but rather a song that has carried me around the world. The energy it gave me on stage lifted me and the audience, a rare treasure ­ a universal anthem.”

Credit: Matthew Beard

Holly Knight dressed typically in black.

Royally defending freedoms

Betty Henderson

THE Prince of Wales, Prince William took a visit to a military base in Rzeszow, southeastern Poland near the Ukrainian border as part of a covert operation on Wednesday, March 23.

The future King of England has made no secret of his unwavering support for Ukraine since the Russian invasion of the country began last year. The visit was kept confidential due to security concerns, and it was not announced until he left the area and arrived in the capital, Warsaw.

Speaking at the base, Prince William expressed his gratitude to British troops for

their valiant efforts in “defending our freedoms.” He personally thanked the soldiers for “keeping everyone safe” and “keeping an eye on what's going on” in the region. He added, “It’s a really important job you’re doing out here. Everyone back home thoroughly supports you.”

Prince William also visited a Polish territorial army base in Rzeszow before heading back to Warsaw. In the capital, he visited a refugee centre and met with some of the 300 women and children who are living there.

Reeling in the consequences

THE European Union is considering changing the rules for fishing in the community. Countries like Spain and France are leading a proposal to modify the way catches are reported to align more closely with fishing rules in the Baltic Sea. The proposal could however reduce current demands, potentially leading to overfishing of endangered species.

According to a confidential EU document obtained by a new source on Friday, March 24, the

more lax rules could be harmful to the marine environment and fishing control. The document suggested the new rules could ‘question’ the imposition of fishing quotas, as well as encourage fishermen to underreport their catches.

The most caught species in Europe, such as mackerel, Atlantic herring, tuna, and swordfish, will be most affected by this regulatory change, which would apply to all boats sailing in EU waters.

The Prince of Wales thanked British and Polish troops in Rzeszow for their work in supporting Ukraine.

Photo credit: William, Prince of Wales (via Facebook)

PRESS EUROPEAN

DENMARK

Back to work

COINCIDING with the announcement of plans to celebrate Queen Margrethe of Denmark’s 83rd birthday on April 16, court sources in Copenhagen confirmed that she hoped to resume her constitutional duties that same day, having recuperated from extensive but planned back surgery last February.

THE NETHERLANDS

Wildlife death

WK2, a wildcat tagged and monitored via GPS in 2014 and known to be at least 13 years old, died after it was run over on the N281 near Nijswillier (Limburg). This was the third time in five years that a wildcat was killed on this road, the Mammal Association said.

BELGIUM

Happy event

A RARE Rothschild's giraffe was born at Belgium’s Pairi Daiza zoo in the early hours of March 22. “The little one, whose sex has not yet been determined, weighs about 70 kilos, is 1.5 metres tall and is already eating well,” the zoo management announced in a Facebook post.

GERMANY

Joint approval

GERMANY is expected to introduce a bill which, if approved, would give the go-ahead to the consumption and sale of cannabis. Health Minister Karl said that after months of talks with Brussels, his plans, which complied with European law, had received “very good feedback” from the European Commission.

FRANCE

Roman des-res

ARCHAEOLOGISTS in Rheims unearthed a Roman structure dating back to the Second century AD. The impressive building, which once had more than 20 rooms, its own bath house and a garden, was either the home of a very wealthy person or possibly a public spa, experts said.

NORWAY

Meltdown

MOST of Norway's glaciers will have disappeared by 2100 even if targets to limit rising temperature are met, experts warned. As the glaciers retreat, there will be more landslides and rockfalls once the ground is no longer frozen and it becomes more unstable, said Oslo University’s Regine Hock.

FINLAND

Further help

FINLAND will provide an additional €12 million in humanitarian aid to help earthquake survivors in Turkey and Syria. Half will be channelled to Turkey through the Red Cross and Red Crescent organisations and the other half will reach Syria through the Syria CrossBorder Humanitarian Fund (SCHF).

IRELAND

Urban forest

VOLUNTEERS in Mulhuddart (Dublin) planted Ireland’s first Tiny Forest, a concept pioneered by Japanese botanist, Akira Miyawaki. Six hundred trees planted on a tennis court-sized plot will mature within 20 or 30 years instead of 200 or 300 thanks to special planting and ground preparation methods.

ITALY No way

ITALY will debate a bill that would criminalise partners who go abroad to have a baby via a surrogate. The proposed law, which would mainly affect same-sex couples, is part of the socially-conservative ideology of prime minister Giorgia Meloni, who has little sympathy for the LGBT community.

PORTUGAL

Custom built

ARCHITECT Tarek Shamma built La Folie, a tower in the seaside town of Melides, for luxury shoe designer Christian Louboutin. Inspired by India’s step wells and the Jantar Mantar Observatory, the unique structure was created solely as somewhere to read, meditate and host friends for drinks and parties.

UKRAINE

Match point

UKRAINE took on the UK in a solidarity chess tournament as Ukrainian champion Andrei Volokitin played his British counterpart Michael Adams in the House of Commons. Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle organised the game to champion Parliament’s support for Ukraine.

SWEDEN

Northern lights

THE Swedish Institute of Space Physics recently created a light show in the night sky, releasing material from a sounding rocket to research the aurora borealis. The experiment was part of research to help scientists improve near-space weather forecasts to protect satellites and critical infrastructures.

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

SO there we were; on a deserted Saudi beach, miles from anywhere, surrounded by a number of shabbily attired Arab tribesmen, all of them atop various small sand dunes, quietly staring and oozing menace.

For those readers who last week didn’t peruse the ol’ boys column, this situation had arisen back in the 70s, when I found myself bringing shows into Saudi Arabia, residing and working in the country for some eight years. One thing I had to accept was the utter inequality of the ladies.

In complete contradiction of Muslim law I’d secretly driven my British Saudia Airline hostess girlfriend to a deserted beach, some 50 kilometres from Jeddah. We’d parked the car near the sea and finally stretched out in the privacy of a secluded area we thought to be miles from any habitation. Wrong.

After some half an hour I opened my eyes and drowsily became aware this was indeed not the case at all. We were surrounded. Know ­

Advertising Feature

Lucky escape

ing the attitude and laws of a country that considered all females second class citizens who were obliged to cover themselves completely, I realised that a beautiful white girl, clad merely in a bikini, was undoubtedly considered trash and easy pickings; while a white foreigner could be permanently removed with a minimum of problems. Time for some extremely diversive actions.

Without moving my head I quietly whispered the dangers to my now comfortably ensconced female companion. Due to her airline status, she was pretty astute and duly proceeded to follow my muttered suggestions. I told her to slowly get up and without lifting the towels or any picnic items, to move over to the car as though she was retrieving something we needed; I then told her to call me to help. This she did. When I heard my name I casually got up and moved leisurely over to the car.

On reaching it I opened my door and as she was already in the passenger side jumped in; quickly

TOO OFFENSIVE? OUR VIEW

slamming both doors of the American Chevy and turning the key, we basically took off. Not quite the take ­ off she was used to, but one that was certainly necessary. In front of us streaming into the rough track and making wild gestures and shouting were about a dozen or so more Arabian tribesmen.

What could I do? I simply kept driving straight at them. Not fast enough to injure anyone ­ as long as they got out of the way, which they duly did. We plunged through the crowd and in clouds of sand and dust thankfully burst free. Believe me, had we not I wouldn’t be here to write this piece. (Hurray!) This is just one glaring example of female inequality in Muslim countries.

If this is the case why does the British left so strongly support Islamic communities and also encourage female equality? It’s impossible. They simply don’t mix and never will. Ask Mr Khan. Keep

Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com expat radioscotland.com Mon and Wed.

AGATHA CHRISTIE’S novels have been a staple for decades, but this week Harper Collins announced their decision to edit what it deems offensive language from some of her classics. The changes will affect some of Christie’s most iconic characters, including Poirot and Miss Marple, as well as the hugely popular novel Death on the Nile. But is this censorship or just a sign of the times?

One could argue that after the days of Bernard Manning and Roy ‘Chubby’ Brown the world was definitely due a change.

But has the pendulum now swung too far the other way? And are we now just attempting to whitewash history by taking references to ‘nubians’ and ‘natives’ out of classic novels? After all, those were commonly ­ accepted terms at the time Christie wrote, and if we now remove them do we risk losing examples that could teach newer generations exactly how far the world has come, and why many have fought to change it.

A further risk in what could be seen as censorship is that by telling people what they shouldn’t be doing/reading/thinking, does this really encourage them to question their own view points? Or just alienate them further?

One thing is clear, the debate is far from over.

Rest, the best investment for your home

IN Spain there are more mobile devices than population, with there being more than 50 million devices in Spain. The pandemic accelerated the increase and want for the digitalisation of our homes. But question is, what do you think is the best investment for your home, for you and your family?

It is known that more than half of Spanish households have three or more televisions in their home and 81.4 per cent of homes have some type of computer, with almost three out of 10 people, 29 per cent, having used home automation devices or services in their home in the last year and now it is time to think about you and what happens when you close your eyes after turning off all the electronics after a long day.

MiColchón invites you to reflect on the basic things that cannot be missing in your home. If we are talking about an essential element for everyone, a product for you to regain strength, mood and is

essential for the proper growth of your children, and that you can also enjoy as a couple... What do you think we are talking about?

Your rest!

Why is rest the most profitable invest ment?

If we consider three basic factors, such as cost, durability and benefits of a product, investing in a healthy rest and MiColchón have the best quality to rest

products to offer you.

Sixty per cent of the world’s adults have had problems sleeping throughout their lives, and its consequences are suffered both physically and mentally. Poor sleep can cause, among other problems: A feeling of tiredness, even if you have just woken up.

Mood changes, irritability.

Anxiety, depression.

It affects the work and school performance of our young people.

Increases cardiovascular risk.

Do you find it hard to get up in the

morning? Listen to your body. It’s time to invest in rest.

Your Mattressologists® at MiColchón, a leading sleep chain, are true specialists in the healthiest rest, considering your morphology, your daily activity and, above all, with their expert knowledge they know how to advise you on the most suitable rest for each back ailment: spondylitis, scoliosis, fibromyalgia, low back pain, osteoporosis...

Grupo MiColchón have more than 40 years of experience advising on the most appropriate rest for each person, and more than 500,000 satisfied customers. Not only do they have the latest advances in materials and products, but also have training provided by renowned physiotherapists.

The main objective at MiColchón is to achieve the most comfortable and restorative rest, and that you make the most profitable investment, investing in rest, which is a necessity in every home.

LeapyLee’sopinionsarehisownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

WOMEN WOMEN

Dreaming BIG in Business in Business

We all have a dream

WHETHER that dream is opening your own bakery, completing your first ever triathlon, or one day becoming the CEO of a major company, imagining pursuing our passions is something we all do.

When it comes to the actual reality of making those dream happen though, that’s when it can become a bit more complicated.

From Oprah Winfrey to Marie Curie Michelle Obama or Madonna, all women who end up changing the world have to start somewhere. It’s just that first push which is often the hardest.

If you are at that crossroads in your own life, this special is for you. The Euro Weekly News knows how many extraordinarily talented women there are in the world. But we also know that the hows, wheres, whats and whys of business aren’t always obvious.

Luckily though there is inspiration lurking in literally every profession, country and corner. And, as

well as celebrating some of the incredible female business success from across history and the world, we wanted this special to share inspiring tales and tips on exactly how success can be achieved.

From women who have climbed to the top of their professions, we have compiled a series of tales of resilience, self-belief, discipline and passion. In short, all the ingredients to achieve phenomenal success.

Expect to find features on some of the world’s most successful women, as well as how to guides, and information on women living not a million miles from your own door who provide inspirational leadership and success every day. Whatever your dream, we want your success. For anyone looking to take that next step in their lives, enjoy finding the inspiration and tools you need right here.

Remember, you’ve got this. “If you can dream it in your head, you can hold it in your hand.”

MADONNA: Has left an indelible mark on the world of music and is known as the Queen of Pop.

Sweden Estetica Clinic

IN the heart of Puerto Banus, Marbella, on the stunning Costa del Sol, you find Sweden Estetica Clinic - the go-to destination for those seeking the ultimate beauty experience. Meet Rina, the owner, and a renowned expert in the field.

With over 10 years in the industry and an international CIDESCO diploma, she has managed a clinic in Stockholm for the past eight years. Now, she has decided to follow her dreams and open her very own clinic in the paradise that is Marbella. From the clinic’s windows, you can enjoy breathtaking views of swaying palm trees and endless blue skies, making every day feel like a holiday.

The Spanish lifestyle is all about relaxation and freedom - starting the day later, taking breaks for beach walks, and working in the evening. Here, days are longer, and every moment is savoured to the fullest. Rina’s best advice for young

businesswomen is to trust their gut instincts and believe in themselves.

Rina’s passion is creating stunning, natural-looking results without the need for injections or surgery. She specialises in advanced skincare and lasers, using cutting-edge technology and medical-grade skincare. At Sweden Estetica Clinic, you will experience the highest quality treatments from Scandinavian experts who adapt each treatment to your unique skin. For all Euro Weekly News readers, book now and receive a free consultation and a fantastic 20 per cent off any treatment during the month of April by using booking code Euroweekly.

Talent and philanthropy: The rise of Shakira

WHILE it may be her personal life that has made most recent headlines, Colombian-Lebanese mega star Shakira has made it to the top of the business world, not only selling out stadiums and creating a line of no less than 30 perfumes, but has also made a difference along the way.

Here we explore the star’s philanthropical work. Shakira - meaning ‘grateful’ in Arabic - founded the ‘Pies Descalzos’ (Barefoot) Foundation during the late 90’s, aged just 18.

After seeing many children living in poverty on

Barranquila’s streets growing up, Shakira promised herself she would do something to help.

The charity’s name has a double meaning. It was the title of Shakira’s 1995 international hit record and also brings to mind the poverty of children who cannot afford shoes.

The foundation believes education is not only a basic right but also holds the key for society’s growth.

The Barefoot Foundation runs five schools, offering nutritious meals, education and psychological support to children and their families.

Some 4,000 children benefit from the charity’s work, which also operates in Haiti and South Africa. Shakira is also involved in advocacy efforts to raise awareness of children’s needs in Colombia, Latin America and around the World. She has spoken in numerous prestigious settings including the Oxford Union debating society. She also serves on the President’s Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanics in the United States and is a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations children’s fund, UNICEF.

Shakira set up a charity.

Tips from the top

KNOWING what you want to do in life is one issue in itself, but knowing how to start can be another one entirely.

That’s why the Euro Weekly News has put together this list of some of our tips, collat ed from successful businesswomen, on how to achieve success in your own venture.

Follow your heart Working is something you have to do day in and day, so make sure its some thing you enjoy do ing. Having passion for what you are selling or the service you are offering, is the best way to start as this will be your driving force.

Do your research Whilst passion is great for your business idea, you need to make sure what you are offering is what people want to buy. Taking some time out to do market research could

pay off in the long run. Start small You need to get the cash flow going as soon as possible, but do not overstretch yourself to start with. Focus on getting your product right and treat those first (and second, and third, and every client along the way) customers as kings and queens; their experience of your company could make or break

Be brave Start now - there is never a perfect time, perfect image, perfect weight, or perfect set of circumstances. Put yourself out there now. Now is the perfect time. Whether working from home or setting up an office or shop, always check with your local town hall and lawyer about how to run your own business.

Spain

HELEN is CEO of EnviroCare / Masterbuild Spain. She has specialist knowledge gained over 28 years, which is instrumental in recommending the relevant products for air conditioning, pool heating and solar system installations, together with property renovations, revamping kitchens, bathrooms, resizing internal areas, and making outside areas work together with the internal spaces.

Helen heads the companies with her husband Phil, and she was delighted to contribute to our Woman in Business supplement. She said there are many technically specific female-owned companies on the coast, to be highlighted in the EWN is very timely because her

daughter has just joined the company.

Harmony is partnering Helen in her real estate business Property Quest International: “I cannot tell you how lovely it is to work alongside my daughter. It’s energising to have so many new ideas to discuss.

“Phil and I married on a local beach and our children, Summer and Harmony, were schooled here. They both left Spain to fol-

low their dreams and, now, we have a new dimension with Harmony joining us.”

Working with clients worldwide who bring their ideas onto the project helps Helen keep in touch with international designs and fashions: “One of our strengths is giving full attention to even the smallest details.”

Helen said she adores living on the Costa del Sol “Within an international, multicultural neighbourhood, it’s totally inspirational.

“Andalucia is gorgeous, we’re always a stone’s throw from the beaches, the mountains, and picturesque villages, in a relaxed outdoor lifestyle with friends. We consider ourselves extremely lucky to have created a lovely lifestyle here.”

Always check with your town hall about running your business.

Helen has specialised knowledge.

Are you looking to furnish your dream home?

STEPONA Furniture & Carpets are a small family-owned business that offers a one stop shop for all your home needs. We carry home furniture, garden furniture, sofas, flooring, barbecues, mattresses, bedding, electrical appliances, cutlery, glassware, and more...

Based in Estepona, Estepona Furniture & Carpets offer our services all over the Costa del Sol.

Offering a wide range of products for the home at their shop they have multiple showrooms for dining rooms, living rooms, bedrooms, outdoor areas, and more.

Estepona Furniture & Carpets offer free flooring quotes in the Costa del Sol area and Gibraltar and will come to your home to measure and help choose the right products for you. They have vinyl, laminate, wood, carpets, LVT, artificial grass and carpet tiles.

Estepona Furniture & Carpets also offer free quotes for curtains and blinds, and can come out to measure to make sure you get the exact length and width. They also provide design recommendations on which type of curtain and how many.

What makes Estepona Furniture & Carpets so special is that they offer a per-

sonalised and friendly service. With products from all over Europe, they can help arrange packages from start to finish and tailor it to your personal taste and budget. If you have a general idea of what you want, like colour scheme or type of furniture but need ideas, please visit their store and they can help select the right products for you.

With all the new technology, Estepona Furniture & Carpets are constantly looking for the latest and greatest products for their clients. For example; recharge-

able exterior lights, smokeless firepits, outdoor kitchens, etc.

Estepona Furniture & Carpets offer their services all over the Costa del Sol but can arrange delivery to anywhere in Spain and Gibraltar.

Estepona Furniture & Carpets have expert carpet fitters and employees with extensive knowledge in all areas of home decoration.

They offer multiple sales throughout the year. Be sure to visit their shop or website for more information!

An interview with Corrinne from Estepona Furniture & Carpets

PROVIDING the coast with the best furniture from 1986, Estepona Furniture & Carpets have been a gem to the Estepona crown for interiors and all things home providing customers with the best, stylish and top-quality furniture for all your home needs.

1. Hi Corrinne! Tell us a bit about yourself and Estepona Furniture & Carpets

We are a small family-owned business that offers a one stop shop for all your home needs. We carry home furniture, garden furniture, sofas, flooring, barbecues, mattresses, bedding, electrical appliances, cutlery, glassware, and more...

2. Have you always wanted to run your own business and what made you start your own business?

I always planned to run my own business. I worked for many years in the family business and when my father retired, I decided to take over. I knew I would be able to apply my skills and expand the already well-established company.

3. When did you start the business and what is your background in the field? The family business started in Spain in 1986 with fitted carpets and rugs. Over the years we expanded incorporating more items for the home and

becoming Estepona Furniture & Carpets in 2006. I combined my knowledge of the business with my background in hospitality to provide exceptional customer service.

4. What motivates and inspires you?

To be able to offer a good service to our clients and provide a friendly working environment for our employees. Finding new and exciting products for our clientele inspires me to keep providing the best service we can.

5. Do you have any advice for people wanting to start their own business?

I would recommend to first

research and have a good business plan. Every business will come across difficult times and I would say to trust your instinct and believe in yourself.

6. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Retired and spending time with my children and grandchild. I would love the opportunity to mentor my children and share advice on running a successful business.

ESTEPONA FURNITURE & CARPETS: A one stop shop for all your needs.

Maya Life: Beauty derived from nature

AYOUNG and exciting company in San Pedro de Alcantara, Marbella, Maya Life creates high-quality oils and creams made from the best organic Prickly Pear and Argan Oils. With total control of the standard and purity of their products, Maya Life’s products will strengthen, rejuvenate and heal your skin and hair.

Created by inspirational entrepreneur Ibtissam, this range of unique products utilises one of nature’s most gentle ingredients - the Prickly Pear. This ingredient can be used on all skin types, with soothing properties that are ideal for acne-prone skin, as well as skin suffering from inflammation, sensitivity and dryness. It is also an excellent anti-ageing ingredient, helping to improve the overall texture and tone of your complexion.

Prickly pear oil is characterised by its high content of vitamins, especially vitamin E and vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid), and it is rich in healthy minerals, amino acids and antioxidants.

Maya Life also produces products using the highest-quality Ar-

gan Oil or ‘Moroccan liquid gold’. The properties of Argan Oil are beneficial for a huge range of skin and hair issues such as treating skin and sun damage, deep moisturising, treating acne, reducing the appearance of scars and stretch marks, and anti-ageing. This is due to its antioxidants and vitamins, the most important of which is vitamin E, in addition to essential fatty acids such as omega 6 and omega 9. The antibacterial and fungicidal properties in Argan Oil aid the healing of wounds, soothe

Women putting the ‘business’ into showbiz

WHILE the word ‘business’ tends to conjure images of well-heeled professionals sitting behind desks or at the head of boardrooms, not all business looks quite so traditional.

Whether its producing, directing or acting, there are women making millions in the that business they call show business. Among them are multiple names who have taken the world by storm, and left their own mark on the industry at the same time.

One of the biggest names that spring most immediately to mind for those living in Spain is Penelope Cruz Sanchez, or as we know her; Penelope Cruz.

Born in Madrid, she is the daughter of Eduardo Cruz, a retailer, and Encarna

Sanchez, a hairdresser.

Cruz’s first big international hit was again with Almodovar, in All About My Mother (1999), where she played an un- chaste but well-meaning nun.

Since then the Spanish star has appeared in a range of big films from Vanilla Sky (2001), and Captain Correllis Mandolin (2001) to Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008) and Nine (2009).

Married to megastar Javier Bardem, Cruz has since increased her wealth and profile even further with her own production company.

While Cruz may be one of the biggest names in Spainand the world- there are tens of actresses also killing it, both creatively and financially.

The highest grossing ac tress in the world, Scarlett Johansson shot to fame aged 19 in Lost in Translation alongside Bill Murray. She’s since grossed an astonishing $15.2 billion across 40 films. As the actress says, "I went through this realisation that acting, at its heart, is the abil ity to manipulate your own emotions."

Now so well-known for her global lifestyle super brand, Goop, that it is easy to forget she is also a hugely success ful actress, Gwyneth Paltrow has been starring in some of the biggest films for more than 20 years.

With an Oscar win and a worldwide gross of $11.6 billion behind her, Paltrow says, It's a waste of time for people to say

atopic dermatitis, and heal skin infections.

These healing oils derived from nature are infused into Maya Life’s hair serums, shampoos, conditioners, shower gels, face oils, and extracts. Everything is made using 100 per cent pure and organic ingredients harvested in the region of Sidi Ifni in Morocco, meaning you will know exactly what you are using on your skin. These incredibly effective oils have been used in Morocco for generations, obtained through a complex process of picking the fruits, drying them under the sun, manually peeling them and extracting the kernels, and then grinding these kernels to obtain a homogeneous dough that is rubbed for hours to extract the oil.

The reviews for Maya Life’s products speak for themselves, with many customers highlighting the positive changes they have seen in their hair and skin.

You can buy Maya Life products online on the website, or visit their Haman in San Pedro de Alcantara in Marbella, where the team can advise you on the best oils and creams for your skin and hair.

MAYA LIFE: The team can advise on the best oils and creams for your skin and hair.

PENELOPE CRUZ: Has had a stellar career on the big screen.

Maya Life

IN recent years, the health and beauty sector has seen a huge increase in people looking for natural, organic and effective products for hair and skin. Maya Life, In San Pedro de Alcantara, brings customers the highest-quality Argan and Prickly Pear Oil to shampoos, conditioners, serums, oils and creams.

We spoke with Ibtissam, the owner and creator of Maya Life, about the business and what inspired her to create these natural, highgrade cosmetics.

Hi Ibtissam! Tell us a bit about yourself and Maya Life

At Maya Life, we sell beauty services and products. All of our products are 100 per cent natural and come from the region of Sidi Ifni in Morocco. People in Morocco have been using these oils

for generations to heal, protect and moisturise their skin and hair, now, I want to bring these amazing ingredients to Europe.

Have you always wanted to start a business and what inspired you to create Maya Life?

I love beauty and the cosmetics field, so I decided to create my own cosmetics brand and products.

We use naturally derived Prickly Pear and Argan Oil in our products, which are renowned for their healing and soothing properties, as well as anti-ageing and reducing the appearance of scars.

When did you start Maya Life?

I started Maya Life seven months ago. Although we are a new business, we have already built up a lovely customer base here in Marbella and our products are also available to buy on our website.

Our readers may have heard about Argan Oil, but what is so special about Prickly Pear?

Our flagship product is our Prickly Pear Oil, which is 100 per cent pure and organic. You can use it as a standalone or as a complement to your daily facial skincare routine. It’s non-greasy and

readily absorbs quickly so it's ideal for all skin typeseven for oily or acne-prone skin because of its anti-inflammatory properties. It provides luminosity, hydrates and smoothes wrinkles, so we believe it is a great natural alternative to botox.

Have you come across any differences between men and women in business?

In beauty, I see many more men wanting to use beauty and cosmetic products, which I think is great. Everybody wants to look after their skin and hair, it doesn’t matter about gender.

What motivates and inspires you?

My passion for organic and

natural beauty products inspires and motivates me. I am excited to be bringing these wonderful products to the market.

Do you have any advice for aspiring businesswomen?

Once you believe in what you want you can make it happen!

Where do you see yourself and Maya Life in 10 years?

I am aspiring to open five more Maya Life branches over the next 10 years.

MAYA LIFE: All products are 100 per cent natural.

Natural, high grade cosmetics.

A salon that feels like home

WORKING in beauty since her teens and training at some of the most prestigious hairdressing salons in the world, including Tony & Guy and L’Oréal, Kirandeep Ghataura has now launched her own stunning salon in Alhaurin el Grande, Malaga. With a rapidly-growing clientbase and a brand new interior, the team at XXVI Hair and Beauty will be holding their grand opening at the beginning of May and invite everyone to join the celebrations.

Kiran previously worked at well-known restaurant Olivia’s La Cala with her now partner before having their child, India.

Their daughter has been the driving force for this upand-coming beauty salon, with Kiran passionate about creating a space like no other - one that feels like home while making you

look your best.

Kiran said: “When I was working from home, I didn’t even advertise my services and my client-base continued to grow. I knew then that I have what it takes to open my own salon, and my clients agreed, because we are now coming up to

being fully-booked.

“Training with such prestigious companies like Tony & Guy showed me the level of service that is needed to be successful. I won’t accept anything less than excellence. I have my assistant Freya at the salon with me, and she helps with run-

ning the business, treatments, and welcoming the clients, and I am now looking to expand my dream team to help me to implement this further.”

The salon, perfectly located in Alhaurin Golf and under a popular pilates studio, is becoming the ‘go to’

place for hair and beauty and is gaining a lot of traction in the area. Whether you are looking for a new set of nails, a cut and colour, a set of false lashes, or a complete revamp, Karin aims to make your visit to the salon an experience. With plans to open an outdoor terrace where clients can sit, have a chat and enjoy a drink, this laidback approach feels like spending time with friends.

Karin said: “Lots of people have been popping in to the salon since we opened our doors around four weeks ago, and we have had plenty of bookings from previous clients as well as new. Being in the amazing location that we are, it’s a great way for people to come in for a chat while they are out walking

their dog, or come in and find out more about our services after they’ve been to their pilates class. We always welcome people coming in to discuss their beauty and hair needs.

“I wanted to create a space where people feel like they are going round to their friend’s house, a place that feels like no other salon but feels comfortable and relaxed. We have tea, coffee, Cava, magazines and always a listening ear for our clients, who we see as our friends. I love seeing people leaving the salon feeling amazing and looking glamorous, and I think that’s another reason why so many people rebook with us.”

With the salon now open and XXVI Hair and Beauty’s grand launch coming up in early May, Karin invites you to join the celebrations and find out about their amazing treatments.

Interview with Kirandeep Ghataura

HI Kiran! Tell us a bit about yourself and why you opened XXVI Hair and Beauty.

I have been living in Spain for 20 years and was working in salons as a nail technician when I was 15 and 16. I started hairdressing at 19 and trained in the UK at Tony & Guy and L’Oréal, entering in competitions and getting all of my qualifications before moving back to Alhaurin el Grande to start my own business. I opened XXVI Hair and Beauty around four weeks ago26 is my daughter’s birth date and so I named it after her.

We now do all kinds of treatments and the salon is completely brand new, I’ve just had all of my new furniture delivered which is so exciting, I can’t wait for my clients to see it all!

That sounds really exciting and congratulations! What made you decide to open XXVI and what was your inspiration?

I was working for another nail salon in Alhaurin el Grande and the owner decided to sell the business to someone else. I had

already built up my own clientbase after starting out working from home, and some of them have been coming to me for over 12 years. I realised that I could take this further than my mum’s sofa and open up my own salon.

I started from nothing but we are now fully booked and I have a great member of staff, Freya, who helps with the day-to-day running of things and making our clients feel amazing.

Do you have any female role models or role models in general?

I wouldn’t say I have any role models but my motivation comes from providing for my daughter. Since India was born, I have been determined to give her

the best and keep working on myself and the business to be able to show and prove to her what you can achieve.

I am inspired by successful businesswomen in general, as well as women who are juggling life, being a mum and their career, like many of my clients.

What do you enjoy most about running XXVI?

My clients, they are like my extended family and I have met thousands of amazing mums and other inspirational women. The salon is created to make women feel good about themselves and to take a break while having a chat and a coffee, so getting to know my clients has been one of the most rewarding and important things for me. We have only been open for around four weeks and we haven’t had our grand opening yet, but my clientbase is already growing and previous clients have followed me to the salon.

I wanted to create a space where people feel really comfortable, replicating the feeling of be-

ing in someone’s home, and this is something my clients really love. People can come in with their worries, exciting news, or just to have a chat, and they will always be welcomed with a listening ear, a comfortable chair and a cup of tea (or Cava)! I want clients to really enjoy their experience with us and leave feeling their best.

What advice would you give an aspiring young businesswoman?

Be brave. There is nothing you can really prepare for when opening your own business, it’s like having another baby. It’s not easy and you have to find the balance between personal life and business life, but it is so rewarding and I know I am doing this for my partner and my daughter.

I have a genuine and real passion for people and that always inspires me, I love catching up with long-term clients and getting to know new customers, seeing them leave the salon looking and feeling great is what really drives me.

XXVI HAIR AND BEAUTY: Their grand launch is coming up in early May.

Kirandeep Ghataura is the inspirational woman behind the business.

Service, integrity and heart

IN an increasingly fastmoving world in which Tik Tok views and Instagram likes can seem to have overtaken traditional, grounded values, it can be a breath of fresh air to know that there are still businesses operating on the age-old principles of decency and customer service.

Bromley Estates is very much one of those companies.

Founded in 2009 by motivational sales trainer Hayley Bromley following her own challenging experience working with an estate agent on the Costa del Sol, Bromley Estates operates on one very solid principle; offering the highest levels of customer service.

With an ethos that means all clients receive exactly the same car-

ing, non-pressured and completely transparent service, their team offer complete A to Z sales care whether you are looking for a property worth €300,000 or €10 million.

This strong ethos running through the company stems from Hayley herself, who, having grown in the UAE and Jakarta where client care is paramount, wanted to bring those values to Spain.

She told the Euro Weekly News: “I wanted to start a business with transparency, integrity, and honesty; focused on customer service and not old-school sales pressure selling.

“You have to be on the side of the client. There’s no rush for the customer to make a decision on a property; if that means a sale takes one week or two years, that’s fine by us.”

With those firm principles herself, Hayley created a team who have been hand-selected for their equally caring and professional approach. They are then given both initial and ongoing training by accredited trainers Sebastian Bromley Bockweg, Hayley’s husband and Head of Acquisitions, and Sales Director Russell Klein.

Hayley explained: “That is our strength; we train everyone on the same programme, with a step-bystep handwritten portfolio about how we want the client to be treated, and then give ongoing training on a daily, weekly and monthly basis.”

With a complete service that includes everything from expert local advice to dealing with paperwork, putting you in touch with trusted

An interview with Hayley Bromley: The female behind Bromley Estates Marbella

WITH a team focused on providing their clients with customer service that goes above and beyond, Bromley Estates has grown into the leading real estate agency on the Costa del Sol.

We spoke with Hayley Bromley, the inspirational female behind the business.

Hi Hayley! Tell us a bit about yourself and the business I have lived in Spain since graduating college in Jakarta, Indonesia. Growing up in the UAE and Indonesia, I was raised in a multicultural, service-oriented environment. I was fortunate enough to have travelled most of the world by my mid20s; unknowingly, my diverse background would carve out my personal expectations and mould a young mind into the way I viewed independence and success.

Why did you decide to open Bromley Estates and what was the inspiration behind this?

It was 2007, the property market on the coast was at an all-time

high, with tales of investors buying multiple units. As a 33-year-old woman I didn’t want to miss out on investing. I made a few appointments to view some properties, it would be this experience that drove me to open my own real estate business just a year and a half later.

The experience was not a positive one, real estate services on the coast have come a long way since the last property boom. I was shown several properties, yet I never felt like a valued customer. I needed to know and feel that I was in good hands.

Marbella was hot property and customers were arriving in droves. No matter how buoyant, there was a space in the market for an agency that treats its customers as a priority, whose entire focus was not sales, but customer experience. Bromley Estates was launched in 2009 with customer service being paramount.

What would you say motivates

lawyers, and even getting the electric turned on, the team at Bromley Estates are there to offer as much or as little support as each client needs.

This approach has paid off. Not only has Bromley Estates been in profit every year since its inceptioneven throughout a recession, Brexit and Covid - but the company has an army of loyal clients, many of whom have since become lifelong friends.

Hayley said: “Our Google reviews give me goosebumps. They speak so highly about our team, saying how we have always gone above and beyond and even become friends.”

ny’s extraordinary success helping its clients, Bromley Estates is one of the few, if not the only agency on the Costa del Sol to operate as both a real estate agency and the exclusive commercialising agent for some of the top national developers, with high-end developments like Pure South, One 80 Residences, Acqua Gardens, Eden Resort & Club and Calanova Collection under its belt to name but a few.

It is also a member of the Leading Property Agents of Spain organisation, as part of its commitment to ensure all estate agencies work to meet the same rigorous standards of honesty and integrity for their

you?

Making a meaningful impact motivates me, growth and opportunity also motivates me. I’m a naturally inquisitive person, I believe there is always room for growth and improvement.

Do you have any female role models or role models in general?

I wasn’t much of a dreamer as a young girl, I was more about the experience than the aspiration, a realist who loved people and was a sponge for information. Before the narrative of the “empath” was discovered I honed in on my intuition and love for people, turning it into a lucrative asset.

When you’re on a journey, you often don’t see the path, you just keep walking forward naturally, hard work often didn’t feel like hard work, more part of my growth and process. If you view your job or career as just work, it can become mundane and tiresome. Work is part of my everyday life which I embrace and enjoy.

That’s a great outlook to have in life and in business. What do you enjoy most about running Bromley Estates?

Independence, I am fiercely independent and have been since being a young girl. Running your own business comes with risks but, ultimately, I think everyone would like the creative freedom and personal satisfaction.

What mistakes have you made along the way and what did you learn from them?

It was all a huge learning curve for me, my greatest challenge was the technological side of the business, which ironically is now my greatest strength. I Initially had to rely on a great deal of external help when it came to web design, SEO, SEM and PPC.

I became frustrated at my lack

of knowledge in this area, so embarked upon a 12-year learning journey and am now competent in the land of Google analytics and other platforms that are essential for today’s real estate business. That’s not to say tech is my favourite aspect of the job, it remains my least favourite. Master your weakness, ladies!

That’s great advice! Finally, what guidance would you give an aspiring young businesswoman?

Do something you love and are passionate about, instead of searching for success, look how you can contribute something meaningful. You have to be prepared to work hard, be consistent, driven, and organised. Having a strong moral compass is critical to creating a successful business with longevity.

HAYLEY BROMLEY:

Knickknack pieces

WITH an interesting career change after previously working in accounting, Odessa Hupsel-Mottershead and her family made the move to Spain earlier than planned, with the pandemic encouraging them to take the plunge and open Knickknacks. Dis cover individual ornaments and adornments that make a house a homefrom hand painted ceramics to beautiful blown glass.

Odessa said of opening Knickknacks: “I was born in the Netherlands and have lived there, as well as in Curacao, and now for the last two years in Spain.

“After around 25 years in accounting, I wanted to work full-time in my shop. We chose Spain because of the weather and experiencing a different way of life.”

Odessa has a passion for sourcing decorative pieces that are different but affordable and, after opening a successful online shop selling home decorations in 2016, she expanded to her physical shop in the Netherlands.

“It was tough but I had help from my daughter, my husband, and my mum to keep the shop open,” Odessa said.

“I would go to markets around the country to promote my business. It was fun and I got to see more of the Netherlands. Now, I can be found at the weekly market on Marbella Arena on Saturdays and Sundays to promote my business.”

Encouraged and inspired by her mum, who told her that “there are highs and lows in life and when you fall down, cry, take a moment but stand up and keep going,” Knickknacks has grown from strength-to-strength.

Visit Knickknacks and discover unique pieces curated with care: Address: Knickknacks Costa del Sol, Calle Caridad 100, 29680, Estepona

Email: info@Knickknacks.online • WhatsApp: +34 686 657 332

Opening hours: Tuesday – Friday 10am until 7.30pm and Saturdays 10am until 2.30pm

Novel idea: The women bringing their imaginations to life

THEY say everyone has a book in them; but it’s not everyone who turns their dreams of literary success into reality.

Any search for Spanish women writers online is sure to return a slew of results. There could never be enough written in a single piece to list the achievements of Spanish women in literature.

Instead here is a selection of some of the brightest and best female authors. We begin in the 10th century with the poet Aisha. The writer was born Aisha bint Ahmad al- Qurtubiyya and although little is known about the details of her life, scholars believe she was born in Cordoba.

What is known is that Aisha came of age in a Spain ruled by the Muslim Moors, where traditional social values often

restricted how women could live and what they could do. The poet came from a back- ground of writers and philosophers.

She was able to break the mould set for her by society and went on to pen some great literature of the time. One of her most famous works is a poem about her turning down a marriage proposal.

Part of it reads: ‘I am a lioness, and will never allow my body, to be anyone’s resting place.’

Almost 1,000 years later in the 19th and 20th centuries Carmen de Burgos picked up the pen and continued with the Spanish female literary tradition. Burgos was born in Almeria to a middle class family and fled them before meeting her husband of 17 years Arturo Asterz Bustos.

The two were unhappi-

ly matched but Bustos’ involvement in the newspaper industry gave de Burgos an interest in working with words.

Soon after leaving her husband she wrote her first book. Her growing feminist convictions led her to write many works commenting on the position of women in society at the time.

Today one of the female writers helping to keep the Spanish female literary tradition alive is Angela Vallvey, 59. Vallvey was born in Ciudad Real and studied Modern His- tory at the University of Granada.

She published her first book, a children’s story, in the 1990’s before going on to write several critically-acclaimed novels. She has taken part in several radio and television shows as well as writing poetry.

Inspired by her mum.

Advertising Feature

Lady boss An oasis of calm

INSPIRATION not perspiration, as they say. And while business success definintely involves plenty of hard work, it is inspiration and passion that drives that hard work.

Luckily there are plenty of uber successful female authors who have made it their life missions to not only inspire but to show others how to achieve success the most efficient way possible.

Here, we round up our must-read motivational books to super charge your business.

The Fearless Woman’s Guide to Starting a Business: What Every Woman Needs to Know to be a Courageous, Authentic and Unstoppable Entrepreneur, Ameé Quiriconi

The Fearless Woman’s Guide to Starting a Business is a book for freedom-seeking female entrepreneurs and solopreneurs who want to know how to connect with their true passions,

skills, and desires. It’s a book for startup business women who get honest with themselves about their reasons for wanting to start a business.

She Thinks Like a Boss : Leadership: 9 Essential Skills for New Female Leaders in Business and the Workplace. Jemma Roedel Discover how to become an effective woman in leadership - even if you’re shy, avoid conflict at all costs, or lack confidence.

If you are tired of seeing men at work get promoted, be given better assignments, and enjoy pay raises even though you know your skills and results are just as good, then help is at hand in the form of this bestseller.

Just F*cking Do It: Stop Playing Small. Transform Your Life, Noor Hibbert

JUST F*CKING DO IT will take you on a mind-altering journey of self discovery and personal transformation using an approach which com-

bines psychological rigour with spiritual power - helping you to become the best version of yourself and create a life of happiness and abundance.

It’s only fair to let the boys play too, so we’ve included this global bestseller on our list to help optimise every spare minute of your busy work day.

The Miracle Morning: The 6 Habits That Will Transform Your Life Before 8AM, Hal Elrod What’s widely regarded as “one of the most life changing books ever written” may be the simplest approach to achieving everything you’ve ever wanted, and faster than you ever thought possible. A must-read.

ORIENTAL Nails & Beauty Home offers everything you would expect from a high-end salon, created in an oasis of calm. Led by passionate businesswoman Zineb Behrens, the professional team will take care of all your beauty needs while making you feel at home.

Zineb told EWN: “I started my business at the beginning of 2022, towards the end of the pandemic, after moving to Spain from Switzerland in 2020. I loved the region and it is very close to my native home, Morocco.”

The pandemic caused Zineb to look at beauty salons in a different way, with a vision to create a salon

Sit back and relax.

where people could transition from being in their homes to feeling at home while being taken care of by her staff. Zineb’s warm and friendly approach to beauty and business is something she enjoys the most - anyone who walks into her salon becomes a friend.

We asked Zineb why she decided to open the salon:

“My son was an inspiration, he sees me as superwoman! I worked in decoration for a long time and I wanted a change. I also wanted work doing something I enjoyed and I wanted a new challenge.”

Zineb has since transformed her idea into a salon that offers clients the opportunity to sit back and relax in beautiful, calm surroundings. Zineb’s advice to budding businesswomen is: “Anything you can imagine, you can create. It may not always be instant and there will be obstacles, and that’s ok, the lessons you learn build you to become stronger and a better version of YOU.”

Address: Cines Teatro Goya, 13-14, Puerto Banús, Marbella, Spain

Telephone: +34 613 14 63 23 • Email: Orientalusbeauty@gmail.com

Instagram: Orientalus Beauty • Snapchat: Orientalus Beauty 1314

Website: www.orientalusbeauty.com

High-End Homes: For Bespoke Interiors

N the world of luxury homes, High-End Homes is a name that stands out from the rest. This Puerto Banus-based store and interior design studio is not only at the forefront of contemporary interior design but also represents carefully selected, leading Scandinavian interior brands in Costa del Sol.

Led by Founder and Interior Designer Ann Sand, High-End Homes is known for its elevated design aesthetic that seamlessly blends Scandinavian sensibilities with tropical influences. Ann’s design philosophy revolves around creating interiors that are not only new and modern but also timeless, ensuring they will be loved for decades to come.

She incorporates inspiration from exotic islands and iconic designs, giving her interiors a certain tropical flair that is perfectly suited to the Marbella

lifestyle. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Ann is a master at creating interiors that are not only visually stunning but also stand the test of time.

High-End Homes is more than just a store or design studio, it’s a powerhouse that of-

fers a complete package for clients. The power duo of Ann Sand and her partner Erlend Sand work together to provide clients with the best of both worlds - interior design and real estate development. This makes High-End Homes the one-stop shop for premium

clients who want to create their dream homes in the Marbella region and desire assistance in the interior design of their new homes.

The High-End Homes store is located in the heart of Puerto Banus, the most exclusive area in Marbella, just a short walk

from the harbour and top restaurants. The store also doubles as the studio where the magic happens. The team works passionately together on projects, creating beautiful experiences for their clients. They invite clients into the studio to feel and breathe the High-End Homes world, meet the team and talk about the future.

When it comes to interior design, High-End Homes has a signature style that has become increasingly in demand in the Marbella region. HighEnd Homes is the go-to destination for those seeking bespoke interiors for the house of tomorrow. With their unique design philosophy, curated products from selected brands in Europe, and a team that is passionate about creating beautiful experiences for their clients, it's easy to see why High-End Homes is the premier choice for luxury interior design in Costa del Sol.

The EWN’s ace team of fearless females

THEY say no (wo)man is an island and anyone who has ever run a team understands that it takes a mixture of talents, personalities and effort to achieve true greatness.

At the Euro Weekly News we’ve known this all along, and that’s why we are immensely proud to have a crack team of amazing women whose combined powers make the EWN a success.

Here we explore the women behind Spain’s largest English-speaking newspaper.

Michel Euesden: A pioneer in Spain’s newspaper industry, Michel has a drive, passion and commitment to success that is literally second to none.

A straight shooter, she has consistently defied expectations, first by becoming one of Spain’s only women at the helm of a major newspaper, and later by continually pushing and growing the Euro Weekly News to an extraordinary half a million readers a month across its seven printed editions.

Sally Underwood: Once a freelance writer for the Euro Weekly News living in the hills of Axarquia, Sally has grown in the company to become its editorial director. Supported by Michel, her journey from local reporter in 2016 to tak-

ing editorial control in 2022 has been one of the best experiences of her life.

Mo: A familiar, and much-loved name to many EWN clients, editorial manager Maureen Doninger has been working for the company for more than 13 years. With an eagle-eyed attention to detail, Maureen ensures that an incredible seven papers come together each week, seamlessly and with consistently high quality.

Alison: Office manager and saleswoman Alison Steele is a corner-

stone of the EWN’s commercial success. Ruthlessly efficient but with a genuine warmth that keeps her clients loyal for years, literally every office could be improved by an Alison.

Michelle Coy: Another member of our crack sales team is Michelle Coy, who has been with the company for more than 10 years. Known for her extremely high levels of customer service, Michelle always goes above and beyond for her clients on the Costa Blanca, ensuring consistent client care

throughout our footprint.

Linda Hall: Our longest-serving staffer, Linda Hall has been with the company an astonishing 27 years. An extraordinary woman who arrived in Spain in the 1960s, Linda is an expert on all things political and contributes her views via her weekly column.

Amalia: After arriving at the company 15 years ago without a word of English, it is fair to say that the Euro Weekly News now just wouldn’t be the same without its effervescent and extraordinarily talented financial director.

Vanesa: Some people are born rulebreakers while others love to follow the rules. The reason we love Vanesa is that she falls firmly into the latter category, ensuring our accounting and HR systems are followed to the letter and protecting the company in what can be a minefield of Spanish bureaucracy.

Lynn: Last but definitely not least is our head of recruitment, Lynn. A firecracker with a fantastic sense of humour and an infectious giggle, Lynn is the warm voice at the end of the phone to applicants looking to join the EWN’s ever-growing news empire.

Thank you ladies, from everyone at the EWN family!

HIGH-END HOMES: The one-stop shop for premium clients creating their dream homes in Marbella.

EWN TEAM: Some of the women who make the EWN a success.

Interview ANN SAND , CEO of High-End Homes, is changing the interior design game in Puerto Banus, Marbella. Her exclusive store and interior design studio offer clients the chance to own timeless and contemporary luxury interiors with a tropical twist. Representing the leading Scandinavian interior brands, Ann incorporates inspiration from exotic islands and iconic designs to create beautiful experiences for her clients.

Ann Sand. For a Norwegian Interior

Ann’s sophisticated black, white, beige, or grey colour palette, mixed with warm tones of cognac leather and burnt siena, fuses Scandinavian design with tropical living. Her background as the former Managing Director of Illums Bolighus in Oslo gave her extensive knowledge of top Scandinavian design brands. She chose the best of the best for High-End Homes based on the quality, aesthetics, and unique personality of each brand. Her love of tropical living, combined with her

Nordic heritage, inspired her to create interiors that fuse the two styles to create beautiful experiences for clients. She combines tropical elements with her Nordic heritage after spending three years living in Bali.

Ann’s mission is to create something new yet timeless, and her art form is about contemporary luxury. Before she

even puts pen to paper, she thinks a few decades ahead, ensuring that people will love her interiors for years to come. Her designs are a nod to elevated design and iconic silhouettes, but she applies a tropical-island element to the mix, making her interiors the interior for the house of tomorrow.

Her showroom is a place to

admire and become inspired by beautifully designed pieces. It’s also an inspiring place to visit for real estate developers, investors, or private consulting clients who want help decorating their homes. Clients can drop in just to look or buy, and they get an opportunity to immerse themselves in Ann’s style.

Representing more than 40 brands, High-End Homes have exclusive rights for some of Ann Sand’s favourites, such as Pent Fitness, Vipp, and Muuto. Ann’s level of involvement with her clients varies based on their needs and expectations. Whether they want a creative sparring partner who can offer advice, help pick out key pieces, and assist with the practicalities or wants Ann to take the reins completely, she can handle every aspect of the decorating.

In conclusion, Ann Sand is the interior designer you want to work with if you’re looking for contemporary luxury interiors with a tropical twist. Her showroom offers a one-stopshop for premium clients, and her design philosophy ensures that her interiors are timeless. Whether you’re a real estate developer, investor, or private consulting client, Ann can help you create the perfect interior design for your home or project.

ANN SAND: Her showroom is a place to admire and become inspired by beautifully designed pieces.

Innovation and sustainability at WoodFactory

RISTEL SCHOEMAN

, owner and creator of WoodFactory in San Pedro, has lived on the Costa since 2000 and had the innovative idea to bring beautiful scaffolding furniture to the south of Spain. These trendy lounge sofas, tables, chairs and other pieces have been seen across northern Europe for decades, and have also become increasingly popular on the ‘outdoor living’ Costa del Sol.

This unusual shop and factory is owned and run by mother of four Kristel Schoeman-Daneel, and is the first producer of high-quality wood furniture in the south of

Spain. Kristel said of the innovative furniture: “In the Netherlands, furniture made of recycled wood is very popular but, on the Costa del Sol, I found it impossible to source these trendy-looking and beautifully created sofas, tables, chairs and lounge sets.

“We thought that this was strange, since this type of furniture is perfect for the outdoor life we all love and enjoy in the south of Spain.” And so the idea for WoodFactory was born, no less just three months after Kristen had given birth to her fourth child.

The contemporary furniture at WoodFactory creates a feeling of Bohemian Chic. All of the

pieces are made using quality strong reclaimed wood that is made to measure - not only is this beneficial for the environment, but you can also be sure that you receive the exact product you desire.

With an eye for design, the company also offers a range of made to measure cushions and inlaid tiles to create that boho, dreamy, homogenous look.

Initially, the business was serving individual

customers in and around the Marbella area, it’s now grown and expanded to receive orders from along the entire coast of Spain. Kristen and her team has become involved in working with interior designers to furnish multiple bars and restaurants in beautiful and environmentally friendly wood.

WoodFactory can either supply from stock or can make products tailored to your requirements, offering a very versatile range for every room in the house as well as outdoors. This includes indoor and outdoor kitchens, bathroom furniture, beds, nightstands, headboards, tables, chairs, stools,

benches, sunbeds, sofas and stools, as well as accessories such as stunning mirrors, planters, desks, bread boards and chalk boards.

WoodFactory can also help you to create your dream spaces with projects that are tailored and made to measure to your needs and requirements.

Naturally, this busy entrepreneur can welcome customers in fluent Dutch, English and Spanish and can also manage a conversation in French or German.

The most common furniture sizes can be found in the shop, while made to measure pieces will be made solely for clients.

Radio star: TRE’s Hannah Murray talks celebrities, early starts, and 16 years at the top

SOME people are just born to connect with others, whether it’s through sharing information, entertaining, or even just being a good listener.

TRE’s Hannah Murray is most definitely one of those people, with a long-standing career spanning an impressive 16 years at one of Spain’s biggest radio stations.

Here, we talk to Hannah about how she got into radio, her career highlights, and what she does on her (very rare) down time.

Hannah explained: “I started working as a producer getting guests for Mary Harboe who was very known and loved for many years doing The Magazine Show. I really enjoyed the work and absolutely loved the idea that you could get literally anyone on the show.”

She went on: “Initially I then presented The Magazine Show for about five or six years and then the breakfast show for nine years. I’ve now been on the afternoon show for 1.5 years.”

Speaking about breakfast radio’s notoriously early starts though, Hannah told the EWN “I much prefer doing the afternoons and waking up naturallyI’m not an alarm clock person!”

While presenters are no stranger to interviewing the great and good, in her time at TRE Hannah has interviewed an astonishing more than 100,000 people. She told us why she loves finding out more about her guests.

“There’s some amazing people out there and everyone has a story to tell. I really enjoy speaking to people who are passionate about something.”

Talking about her favourite guests so far, she explained: “It’s great speaking to a really famous person. Doing the breakfast show I’ve had the chance to interview Lee Child and Jilly Cooper.

“But sometimes I love even more speaking to ordinary people who’ve done really amazing things. I’ve interviewed people who’ve been in wars and combat -

I’ve had people crying in the studio and some really emotional moments.”

So what does one of the Costa del Sol’s busiest women do for down time?

“For around 13 years now I’ve been hosting a weekly pub quiz at Hogan Stand in San Pedro, which I love. About five years ago my husband and I set up the San Pedro Guide, the only guide to San Pedro in English, so there’s a lot that keeps us busy.

“I’m in a choir as well, the Del Sol singers - we practise each week at Kat’s Kitchen near Estepona and do various performances throughout the year. I’m also an active member of the international Theatre Studio and I’m doing a monologue from Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads in April.”

You can listen to Hannah Murray on TRE in the afternoon from 4pm to 6pm Monday to Thursday, and The Book Show every Thursday 7pm, repeated on Saturdays at 8pm.

HANNAH MURRAY: Has been a TRE radio presenter for years.

WOOD FACTORY: Help to create your dream spaces.

Interview WOODFACTORY was launched by long-term resident of Marbella, Kristel Schoeman-Daneel, with the goal of bringing the best of Dutch design and quality to the Costa del Sol using beautiful scaffolding wood.

Kristel Schoeman-Daneel of WoodFactory

over the 11 years you have been open?

We spoke with Kristel about how she has made WoodFactory so successful, what motivates her the most and her advice for budding businesswomen.

Hi Kristel! Have you always wanted to own your own business?

I have had my own business in the past and have always been and entrepreneur. It was when I was pregnant with my fourth child that I came up with the idea for WoodFactory and decided to create the business.

I made my business plan during pregnancy and started the business when my fourth child was only three months old - we have now been running for 11 years.

How has the company grown

When the shop first opened, it seemed to attract a lot of northern European clients who understood and liked the look, however, I am really happy to have noticed that more and more of my customers are Spanish.

Because of the success I have had with WoodFactory, I expanded my line to also include decorative accessories that accompany and compliment my lounge creations. You’ll find my designs all over the Costa del Sol now! We deliver custom work that is completely adapted to the clients’ requirements and many of the most popular bars and restaurants along the Costa del Sol have chosen to furnish their businesses with us.

What is the philosophy and inspiration behind WoodFactory?

I wanted to create a sense of Bohemian Chic with good quality strong furniture that lives - and that is certainly the case with

WoodFactory.

I regularly go to northern Europe to source the latest and most beautiful decorative items

to complement our furniture, and we also offer a range of made to measure cushions and inlaid tiles to ensure that ho -

mogenous look.

What inspires and motivates you?

My clients inspire me, I work with so many fantastic customers. I love creating beautiful spaces together by using wood and carefully selected items. No matter what the needs and requirements are, whether it’s indoor or outdoor furniture, designing large projects for businesses and premises or helping clients to choose unique pieces that compliment their furniture and colour palate, design and scaffolding wood is my passion. Do you have any advice for people wanting to start their own business?

If you want to start your own business make sure you have some ‘back-up’ money for at least a year and don’t do big investments in the beginning. If the idea/concept is good and you control the financial investment correctly it will work - so just go for it!!

Kristel wanted to create a sense of Bohemian Chic.

Fabric Boutique Spain

FABRIC BOUTIQUE is not like other high street shops. Creating a personal, fun and relaxed shopping experience, Michelle Mellet and her team are passionate about making sure that every woman who enters Fabric Boutique leaves feeling confident and looking fabulous.

Originally from Manchester and having always been passionate about fashion, Michelle has been empowering women through clothes for 10 years. The designs at Fabric Boutique are unique, using bright colours, bold prints, and stunning fabrics - typical of the laid-back Marbella style.

With four shops across Spain, Fabric Boutique is well-known as the ultimate shopping experience. Their clothes are designed to take you from beach to bar, and the team will piece together the perfect outfit for any occasion,

bringing you the highest quality clothes and accessories from across Europe. Their goal is to make you feel good, handpicking from a range of stunning dresses and jumpsuits, jumpers and knitwear, stylish footwear and unique accessories.

Michelle said: “We cater to all ages, shapes and styles, and that’s what sets us apart from other boutique shops. We chat with the client about what they’re looking for and find them the perfect outfit - whether it be for a wedding, communion or a day at the beach bar.

“The styling teams in each of our shops are all different, the youngest is 23 and the oldest is my mum, who works in the La Cala shop. This shows the age range of our clients and we love finding the right styles for each different person - our pieces are designed to look great on all shapes, sizes and ages.”

With hundreds of colour palettes and pieces for every occasion, visit the girls at Fabric Boutique in La Cala, Calahonda, San Pedro or Gibraltar.

Website: www.fabricboutique.es • Telephone: +34 711 07 54 38 Facebook: @fabricboutiquespain • Instagram: @fabric_boutique_spain

How passion plus risk can equal millions

INSTANTLY recognisable, Cath Kidston’s eyecatching designs have become a familiar favourite on some of the world’s smartest highstreets.

But don’t let her cheerful patterns lull you into a false sense of security, under the girl next door look to Kidston’s business empire lies a razor sharp business mind that has built up an estimated £250 million company.

Influenced by her idyllic upbringing in the Hampshire countryside, Kidston says, “I’ve always been interested in houses and homes. From my earliest memories, I’ve liked re-arranging my room and was one of those children who was always restyling my bed- room.”

She adds, “I always loved to play shop, I loved

trading, drawing and doing all the stuff I love to do today.” The former shop assistant turned her passion into a business when she opened her first shop in Holland Park 1993, selling hand embroidered tea towels and shabby-chic furniture.

Her inspiration for selling products came after making an ironing board cover for her own flat. She explains, “I thought it would be the perfect product, because there I was, at home, doing my ironing on a grey ironing board. My flat was quite small and I had it hanging on the back of the door. I thought it was a really good idea.”

Subsidising her first venture, which she describes as a “glorified junk shop,” with interior design, Kidston decided to focus solely on selling her own

creations after surviving cancer at 37.

She explains the ordeal, “changed my attitude to risk within a business. It was a really positive turning point. It really helped me think, ‘I’m just going to make the most of it and get on’.” Her passion paid off and her designs are now sold in over 200 shops across 16 countries.

With an MBE for Services to Business to her name, Kidston, who has also raised large sums of money for cancer charities, has now sold the majority stake in her company. She says “having a business is a bit like having a child. As they grow up, you don’t want them to be too reliant on you, but you want to remain on very good terms with them.”

Michelle Mellet looks after you.

Spanish sisters

OVER the years, women from across the world have achieved some extraordinary things. But what about right here in Spain?

Here we look at what our most inspirational Spanish sisters in arms are achieving.

Now 62, Ana Patricia Botin, 57, has served as the executive chairman of Santander bank, bucking the global trend for top banking positions to be occupied by men.

The fourth member of her family to hold the position, in 2013

Botin was ranked the most powerful woman in the world by Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour. Forbes al so named her the 8th most powerful woman in the world in 2017, 2019 and 202.

Another globally successful banker Maria Dolores Dancausa, 64, is the chief executive officer of Bankinter, holding the position since 2010. She led the bank in 2016 when the bank bagged record profits. She also made it into a gender-less list of the top 50 European directors by Forbes, following her results.

In the world of political philanthropy Paloma Escuedero, 57, is hard to beat. She is the

communications director of UNICEF, the United Nations’ children’s fund, managing the agency’s brand image and global communications. Before taking on her new role, she was UNICEF’S country director in Spain responsible for 180 projects and 800 volunteers.

Banking and politics are not the only male-dominated sectors however, with haute cuisine one of the toughest arenas to break into.

Hugely famous Spanish chef Carme Ruscadella, 70, did just that with a slew of Michelin stars to her name.

A master of ‘natural’ cooking, she has a restaurant in her hometown Sant Pol de Mar, near Barcelona, one in Barcelona city, and another in Tokyo. Combined, the three restaurants have seven Michelin stars, making them some of the world’s most decorated kitchens.

Queen Letizia, aged 50, was a successful journalist on Spain’s most important national channel before marrying King Felipe VI in 2004. She serves as special ambassador for the United Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).

Advertising Feature

Darina Aesthetic Clinic

USING advanced aesthetic medicine and rejuvenation treatments, Darina Aesthetic Clinic in Marbella helps you to highlight your beauty and boost your selfconfidence. Owner Darina Badysheva opened her clinic last year, offering the best service on the Costa del Sol with her experienced team.

Darina Aesthetic Clinic provides advanced treatments such as facial vitamins, lip augmentation, hyaluronic acid fillers, anti-wrinkle treatments, vitamin serum therapy, platelet-rich plasma and much more. The Euro Weekly News asked Darina about what inspired her to open her beautiful clinic in Marbella: “I always wanted to have my own business. I am a disciplined person and I always knew what my goals were,” she said.

“As I was working in the area of aesthetics, which I am passionate about, I began to see the needs of my clients. Which helps me every

day to investigate and learn about new trends.”

With plenty of experience in the aesthetic sector, Darina is motivated by the happiness of her clients. Her ethos is that these treatments can not only achieve a better appearance but also help with self-confidence and mental well-being. After all, looking great makes us feel fabulous.

Darina is also proud to be a woman in business: “I believe that in the last few decades, women have made significant progress in the business world. There are more and more women in leadership positions and founding their own companies,” she said.

Darina’s advice for aspiring businesswomen is to be passionate and committed, that if you’re not passionate about what you do it can be difficult to maintain motivation.

Passionate about aesthetics.

Queen Letizia was a successful journalist.

Attention to detail

WHEN you are abroad - whether it is because you have a second home in Spain or you have relocated here - you will want to know that if anything happens you can deal with someone in English and with the highest level of attention to detail.

That is where Jennifer Cunningham Insurances SL can help.

Offering all types of insurance, from pets to homes to cars, Jennifer Cunningham Insurances SL provides specialised policies, all in English, and all aimed at your exact needs.

Both their Liberty Seguros and ASSSA policies have special divisions, created exclusively for expats’ needs. To support these policies, Jennifer has two very special, unique additions to her com -

pany, a dedicated Claims Administrator and a Renewals Department, which means you will be contacted every year to check your policy at renewal. Again, all in English and all with a personalised service. There is no such thing as an automatic renewal, where you can lose control.

Jennifer initially specialised in health insurance, on the Costa Blanca in 1992, but it was not long before she was asked to expand into general insurance. The company, still led by Jennifer Cunningham, has an extensive network of eight offices with an expert team who can tailor make the policy for you to suit all your needs and that of your family.

Jennifer’s philosophy is that of straightforward and honest advice, which is still instilled in all her staff members up and down the coast. Jennifer is

passionate about her team providing a professional quality of service to all her clients.

It is vital that the advice offered with regard to coverage is taken to ensure you are never under-insured, which offers you better protection should you have to make a claim. To be advised by an assessor that you are under-insured, will be the start of a nightmare.

Jennifer Cunningham Insurances SL offers all types of in-

surance, including cars, motorcycle, classic car, health, dental, comprehensive home, second home, public liability, commercial, landlord, funeral, travel, life insurance, pets, and marine policies, and Jennifer is very proud to be working with both Liberty Seguros and ASSSA to provide quality policies

Inspirational leader

THERE are some people in life who, as well as building their own success, do their utmost to help others along the way too. Jennifer Cunningham is one of those people.

A determined, passionate lady who keeps herself fit through healthy living and an inspiring enthusiasm for helping others, Jennifer’s story is a stirring one that relates courage, dedication and the incalculable benefits of a positive mental attitude.

Having moved to Spain in the late 1980s, Jennifer soon found herself alone with only a half-finished home and widow’s pension after her husband sadly passed away.

Many will recall the transformative moments in their lives when they stood, changed but unbroken, and found the strength to continue by channelling their love, rather than letting themselves become overcome by fear. And Jennifer began the long road towards developing her own life, and helping others along the way.

From humble beginnings working

from the simplicity of her own bedroom, Jennifer managed to apply her experience working in health insurance to eventually become a household name on the Costa Blanca, admired for her forthright attitude and prudent advice.

It certainly wasn’t an easy feat. At the beginning Jennifer wasn’t computer literate, which means that like many others she didn’t have a clue how to use the darned machines. Learning from scratch blessed her with a more empathetic understanding of the difficulties faced by her fellow expatriates in Spain however.

Jennifer initially specialised in providing health insurance locally on the Costa Blanca when she set out in 1992, but it was not long before she was asked to expand into general insurance. Her company, still led by Jennifer, now has an impressive network of eight offices with an expert team who can tailor make the policy for you to suit all needs.

Despite her astronomic success, Jennifer is still a hands-on Managing Director though and she keeps

herself and her staff aware of changes to Spanish insurance regulations and laws, keeping a steady hand at the helm of the company. She is also well-known and respected throughout by Spanish nationals and especially expats for offering excellent service.

This is because her company, Jen -

for her clients.

So if you are concerned about protecting your valuables, home or car and want great customer service in English, contact Jennifer Cunningham Insurances SL on 966 461 690 or for more information, visit www.jennifercun ningham.net.

They look forward to hearing from you and becoming one of our valued customers.

nifer Cunningham Insurances, was built on the principle that a personal, one to one service was fundamental to ensuring that people’s needs are properly met and that real interaction can never be replaced with the detachment of the telephone or internet.

Jennifer also has her own sound advice on Bay Radio where she offers valuable and impartial insights.

It is even spreading further afield to cover all of Spain, including Malaga, Barcelona and Madrid.

More than simply a caring and successful businesswoman though, Jennifer is one of the many inspiring figures who quite simply make the Costa Blanca far better place to live.

Jennifer is a born leader.

The team provides a professional quality service to all clients.

Jennifer is an inspiration to many.

A keen eye for detail.

Say cheese and smile!

THREE entrepreneur women, all of them mothers, have set out to revolutionise the dental sector in Marbella. Their idea is to offer not only the best medical and aesthetic result, but also the best experience for parents and children during the treatment. And all with the best smile at every stage of the treatment.

Say Cheese will open its doors in April and will have a large and purposebuilt space for families, and the latest dental and tech nological ad vances too, to ensure the high est results, and al

ways, from the perspective of what the child and parent really need.

Our qualified medical team, led by Dr Marianne Salas, Director of Pediatric Dentistry, and Dr Eugenia Delgado, Director of Orthodontics, as well as the clinic director Carolina Jaramillo have extensive and successful experience in the fields of family and pediatric dentistry,

and together, they make up a unique and unparalleled team on the Costa del Sol.

But what is a Dental Home, you may be wondering? It’s a meeting place for families and dentists where they can treat and prevent any area of family and children’s dentistry, all from the highest medical rigour and maximum empathy towards families.

The objective, for which the Say Cheese team works, is to see you smile: to take care of your oral health, to improve your smile, but above all to receive many smiles from happy parents and children. Say Cheese… and join the family dental revolution.

Say Cheese will open in early April. To pre-book your family dental treatment, visit www.saycheesedentalhome.com or contact the medical team at info@saycheesedentalhome.com.

From self-belief to self-made millionaire

LEARNING to back yourself really is a business success fundamental. After all, if you don’t believe in you, why should anyone else?

But if you need some inspiration on how self-belief and taking risk after risk can turn out for the best, look no further than UK favourite Emma Bridgewater.

Creating her business in 1985 with just £450 in savings, the now famous ceramics designer whose mugs and plates are sold in their millions across the UK, knew from a young age she wanted success. The problem was she didn’t know how she was going to do it.

Bridgewater, told one publication it was trying to find a birthday present for her mother Charlotte that sparked the idea for her hugely successful company. She says, “I was looking for a really special cup and saucer, but everything was either too formal or too clunky.”

Hugely ambitious, Emma had been looking for a business idea which could turn over a lot of money quickly. Having failed to find the right gift for her mum, she explains, “that was my eureka moment. I realised there was a gap in the market for pottery that was beautiful and practical.”

Creating a prototype at the Potteries in Staffordshire, Bridgewater started decorating her first mugs with sponge-applied designs. She began by selling the end product in Covent Garden, where buyers lapped up her informal designs, such as Toast & Marmalade.

After a few years happily married to Matthew Rice, now the company’s CEO, Emma says she put the business on a back-burner, just making enough to live.

When four children came along, however, she says she quickly had to earn more money, explaining, “I had to get back into the saddle or else the roof would have fallen in.”

A sad twist of fate increased her resolve even further when her mother suffered a brain injury after falling whilst

horse-riding in 1991. She says the sudden responsibility of caring for her mother, as well as her own young family, spurred her on, adding “unhappiness is a great driver.”

After several years building up the business, commuting miles each week between Stoke-on-Trent, London and Norfolk, Emma realised she needed to slow down when diagnosed with arthritis at 31.

She says she was advised to “take the stress out of my life” and decided to hand the company over to her husband, an experienced businessman who helped David Linley found his furniture company.

She says the transition was initially difficult, explaining, “it was hard to relinquish the reigns of my ‘business baby,’ but it was the right decision. I could focus on my health, my children, and the creative side of the business.” Her risk paid off and Matthew Rice has helped to increase the businesses productivity to 25,000 pieces of ceramics a week.

Now happily focusing on the design side of the business, Emma received a CBE in 2013 for Services to Industry and explains, “I design china to fit into your life, not to try to make your life more like mine.” She adds, “Emma Bridgewater is really every woman’s story.”

Emma Bridgewater is really every woman’s story.

Credit: Facebook/Emma Bridgewater Factory

Stepping stone to greatness

AS children we are often taught that failure is bad.

Doing badly in a school test often ends in some sort of punishment.

As a result, many of us enter adulthood thinking our failures are a negative, a sign we’re just not good enough at something, or a reason to be ashamed of our attempts.

But what if the reality was actually the opposite? What if it’s our failures that in fact give us the tools we need to achieve massive success?

Here we have rounded up a selection of household names who initially struggled to get where they are today.

Oprah Winfrey, the American talk show host, actress, producer, and philanthropist had a rocky start to life. She was brought up in a low-income family and says she was once sexually abused. She became pregnant at age 14, but lost the baby and went to live with her father.

OPRAH WINFREY: Explains that failure is part of the path to success.

She was fired from her first job on a local television station, but has since gone on to become one of the most popu- lar, influential and wealthiest women in media with television shows and even her own TV channel.

In 2013, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama. Forbes state her net wealth as around $2.9 billion (€2.7 billion).

In her own words: “Failure is another stepping stone to greatness.”

J K Rowling, the woman behind the most famous wizard of all time, Harry Potter, has said she believed she was a failure before penning the novels.

She was a single, divorced

Creating outdoor life

AT Viveros la Vega, you will find everything you need for your home and garden. From trees to flowers, seeds to handmade ceramics, outdoor furniture to DIY, and barbecues to grass, it’s your one-stop-shop for creating home and garden surroundings.

always wanting to do the best at all times, to make sure everything is of good quality and that we offer the best to customers.”

mother suffering from depression and struggling to make ends meet when she wrote Harry Potter. In 1995 all major publishers rejected her book, but a year later Bloomsbury accepted it and in 1997, the book was published with only 1,000 copies.

Today, Harry Potter is a multi-million franchise with books, films and even a West End show and J K Rowling is now considered to be the most successful female author in the UK. Her net worth is said to be around $1.1 billion (€1.02 billion).

She said: “It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously you might as well not have lived at all, in which case you’ve failed by default.”

Together with her husband Jose, owner Pepa Morales Bravo created and evolved the business which is now the popular garden centre in Camino Viejo de Coin, Mijas. The Euro Weekly News spoke to Pepa about the business and what motivates her, she said: “I find my inspiration daily, always looking for ways to improve and eager to face all commitments - especially in times of crisis”.

The business opened in 1987 and has since been expending, with Pepa working hard on merchandising and personnel to make Viveros la Vega the well-known garden centre it is today. Pepa said: “My motivation is

With so many plant and flower species, a huge range of ceramics and decorations, plenty of ideas to create your own beautiful garden, and accessories for outdoor spaces, Pepa said what she enjoys most is recognising and seeing the beauty of nature. She also enjoys giving advice to customers.

We asked Pepa what advice she has for budding businesswomen and how she has learnt from mistakes she made in the past: “Mistakes are part of life, and of business too, you just have to try to make as few as possible and deal with them.”

“The advice I would give is fundamentally the constancy in the work and in continuing with your business model - both in the good and bad moments of life.”

Everything

Golden Leaves International: Expat funeral plans with your needs in mind

LANNING our funeral isn’t something most of us consider in advance. However, it is especially important for expats to plan ahead for when the time comes, giving family and loved one’s peace of mind and alleviating some of the stress. That’s where Golden Leaves can help, an experienced and passionate company that has been at the forefront of the funeral planning industry since its foundation in 1984.

There are numerous considerations to take into account when planning a funeral, including logistics, refreshments for guests, casket purchase, and burial grounds.

With the immense emotional strain the death of a loved one can cause for a family, dealing with arrangements in a foreign language and financing problems only exacerbate the grief.

“I raise up my voice - not so I can shout but so that those without a voice can be heard… We cannot succeed when half of us are held back.”

Malala Yousafzai

ing abroad, a funeral plan with Golden Leaves takes away the pressure of having to arrange a funeral, supporting grieving families and friends during these tumultuous times.

“Don’t compromise yourself. You are all you’ve got. There is no yesterday, no tomorrow, it’s all the same day.”

Janis Joplin

carried out as per their wishes, taking the distress and financial burden away from family and friends when the time comes.”

Funeral plans with Golden Leaves are designed around your needs. The international team led by Emma can help you to navigate which plan is best for you and your loved ones, from their direct, simple, traditional and repatriation plans. Each of these plans have been designed with the expat in mind, guaranteeing to cover the cost of your funeral when the time comes.

Inspired by her team and the service they provide to their clients, Emma said it is their range of plans, customer support and payment plan options that sets Golden Leaves apart from the rest. The team has helped thousands of expats in Spain prepare everything for their funeral, with plans that offer flexibility and peace of mind - whatever your financial situation.

“Without an open-minded mind, you can never be a great success.”

Martha Stewart

With a ‘one call does it all’ service to help take care of all the paperwork in Spain when you need it most, Golden Leaves offers every type of funeral plan, from direct cremation to repatriation.

We spoke with Emma Quantrill, international oper -

Leaves, she told us: “In our case, when dealing with funerals, we see many people grieving and not thinking as they normally would. We are there to safeguard the client and ensure that everything is

Get in touch with Emma and the international team at Golden Leaves to start planning for your funeral so that, when the time comes, you and your loved ones will be in the best possible hands.

“Always aim high, work hard, and care deeply about what you believe in. And, when you stumble, keep faith. And, when you're knocked down, get right back up and never listen to anyone who says you can’t or shouldn’t go on.”

Hillary Clinton

Emma Quantrill and her team has helped thousands of UK expats in Spain.

Emma Quantrill: A true inspiration to all ambitious women

DEATH is not a subject many of us are comfortable talking about, yet there is one woman whose leadership, strength and humanity allow her to not only discuss the subject daily but deal with it with total professionalism and compassion.

That woman is Emma Quantrill, International Operations Director at Golden Leaves. In what has been a male-orientated profession for hundreds of years, Emma has broken the mould to lead one of Spain’s most trusted funeral plan provider for the past eight years. Here, the Euro Weekly News finds out how this extraordinary woman achieves everything she does and what inspires her the most.

Hi Emma! Tell us a bit about yourself

I have lived in Spain since 2007 and moved to join my parents who retired here in 2006 - And so my life in the sun began!

You’ve obviously achieved huge success in that time; how do you do it?

I have worked with Golden Leaves as the International Operations Director since 2015. Passion plays a huge part in my success and I am an avid believer in our product as I know how vital is it for the expat to have their affairs in order when living in a foreign country as we don’t always fully understand the system.

How did your journey working at Golden Leaves start and what inspires you?

I was asked to join the company in 2015. I had worked in the industry for a number of years beforehand and had a lot of experience, I discovered Golden Leaves was the number one provider of pre-paid plans in Spain. I believed in them along with their priority, focus on customer care, service, range of plans and payment options. Eight years later I still feel this way about Golden Leaves. I am proud to be a part of this groundbreaking company and proud to head up the international team. It is hugely important to love where you work; this is my inspiration to achieve the best every day.

What motivates you the most?

I am motivated and inspired by my team, our clients, the company and the products that we offer. Also knowing that we are in some small way helping that individual and their families at a very difficult time in their lives.

What do you enjoy most about your role at Golden Leaves?

Firstly helping a client, secondly seeing my team flourish, and seeing the business grow.

What mistakes have you made along the way and what advice would you, as a hugely successful woman, give to others about set backs?

I have made mistakes, it’s part and parcel of running a business as a woman in Span. I would tell people that as long as you can rectify those mistakes and learn from them, it’s all a part of self-growth and development.

What advice would you give an aspiring young businesswoman?

Make sure you have done your due diligence. Love the product, know the market, and know its demandsand needs. Understand and teach yourself the basics on the social platforms and market everything to the correct audience. Finally try to enjoy the choices you make creating your business and making it a success.

“Fearlessness is like a muscle. I know from my own life that the more I exercise it the more natural it becomes to not let my fears run me.”

Arianna Huffington

“Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another stepping stone to greatness.” Oprah Winfrey

Emma is an avid believer in the product.

Reach your potential

ZUZANA

EGYED , 37, is an international business coach and certified positive psychology coach helping female entrepreneurs crush their goals by ditching imposter syndrome, identity crises and self-limiting beliefs. Originally from Slovakia and now dividing her time between Spain and Dubai, Zuzana and her family love the culture and experiences Spain has to offer.

After running a restaurant in the UK and having her first daughter, Zuzana wanted to run a business alongside her family life, she told the EWN: “I wanted to be a successful mother and a successful entrepreneur. Now, over the past 12 years, I have been running a successful international business online.”

Seeing many women experiencing challenges in life and business, Zuzana wanted to level-up their mindset and empower them to take the next steps to reach their full potential: “I qualified as a positivity coach, now I’m helping women to crush their goals, be happy and thrive - despite what life throws at

The most influential women

them!”

Inspired by one of the most influential women in the world, Oprah Winfrey, Zuzana said: “I enjoy the freedom of having my own business and being a mum, but my purpose is to empower women to make great changes in their life and believe in themselves - so that they can influence the next generation.

“My advice to aspiring businesswomen is that if you have a dream, be bold and don’t listen to other people’s opinions. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes because they force you to be more of who you are. Invest in yourself and find a coach to guide you to achieving your goals.”

Facebook: @ZuzanaEgyed • Email: positivemindsetzone@gmail.com

WOMEN have worked tirelessly throughout history to en sure that the female voice is heard. Whether it's working in politics, becoming a social activist, or breaking down barriers in sports, women have gone above and beyond to achieve equality and advocate for a better society.

In this Women in Business supplement, we have taken a look at the most influential women throughout history and the inspirational words they spoke.

• “I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear.” – Rosa Parks

• “At the end of the day, we can endure much more than we think we can.” – Frida Kahlo

• “I really think a champion is defined not by their wins but by how they can recover when they fall.” – Serena Williams

• “Have no fear of perfection; you'll never reach it.” – Marie Curie

• “Don’t ever make decisions based on fear. Make decisions based on hope and possibility. Make decisions based on what should happen, not what shouldn’t.” – Michelle Obama

• "Don’t try to lessen yourself for the world; let the world catch up to you." – Beyonce

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

• “I was a person with dignity and self-respect, and I should not set my sights lower than anybody else just because I was black.” – Rosa

Parks

• “We are here, not because we are law-breakers; we are here in our efforts to become law-makers.” – Emmeline Pankhurst

• “Do what you feel in your heart to be right–for you’ll be criticised anyway.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

• “If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” – Maya Angelou

• “There’s something so special about a woman who dominates in a man’s world. It takes a certain grace, strength, intelligence, fearlessness, and the nerve to never take no for an answer.” – Rihanna

• “You could make a case that, along with the technological revolution, the most provocative upending destabilising thrilling change in the course of human history is that we’re finally in it. … We’re here now, women are in the world, and we will not be bullied.” -

Meryl Streep

Zuzana is a positivity coach.

MERYL STREEP: We will not be bullied.

Beware the time thief

IT’S a given that owning your own business is timeconsuming. Sometimes it can feel like there could literally never be enough hours in the day to achieve everything you want to get done.

But while we know that some amount of down time is vital to keep us performing our best, what it the most efficient way to use that time to your advantage?

Here we explore common time thieves that can easily monopolise the hours you dohave off, and how to avoid them.

The couch While at the end of a busy day or week the sofa may feel like the natural choice to come down a little, there are most efficient ways to bring your mind down from a million miles an hour.

A ‘a change of scene’ as they say, ‘is as good as a rest,’ and it is remarkable how true this can be. Travelling even to a slightly differ-

ent destination to your normal surroundings can help to reset the mind as much as a day zoning out in front of Netflix.

As an added benefit, expect new ideas to flow as the different perspective allows the mind to reflect on things.

The midnight emergency What happened to the days of a good old-fashioned cup of hot milk and a bedtime story, eh? Perhaps our parents really did know best all along as it seems that increasing numbers of us are now checking devices, dealing with work, or watching high-drama TV right up to the moment we go to sleep.

Endless research has found that quality sleep is one of the single biggest factors in cognitive function, yet we regularly ignore the sound sleep routines our parents set us up with and choose to raise our adrenalin levels right before bed.

This is neither healthy, nor

is it an efficient use of down time.

If you really can’t stomach the idea of a warm milk before bed (you are an adult, after all), why not go for the slightly more grown up angle of a good book, yoga, music (soothing, obviously), or a warm bath before bed?

Whatever you do, just make sure it’s something design to calm, not stimulate, your senses.

Procrastination The art of putting off to tomorrow what can be done today, procrastination is perhaps one of the biggest time thieves. To achieve the tasks in front of you and avoid putting them off, try one of the most forms of time management; time blocking.

Write out a task that needs completing, book out a block of an hour, turn off phones and emails, and commit to using that whole hour to completing that task. You’ll be amazed what you can achieve.

Advertising Feature

Illuminate your beauty

FFROM humble beginnings during the 2020 pandemic to a growing business in the heart of San Pedro Alcantara, Gaby Talala Beauty Studio has grown into a place that people leave looking and feeling their best.

The Euro Weekly News spoke with owner Gaby Talala: “My beauty studio focuses on mi croblading and permanent make-up for brows and lips. I also offer other services such as threading, lash extensions and lash lifting.”

Having always had an entrepreneurial mindset, Gaby has owned busi nesses in the past but her passion lies within the beauty industry: “My passion for beauty started six years ago when I was living in Singapore. I saw my sister-in-law being successful in running her own beauty business and, back then, I doubted if I could ever do something like that. It took me three years to finally

have the courage to take the first step. When I look back I regret that I didn’t start earlier!”

From small beginnings and a few clients, Gaby has been growing her business and taking new courses to keep up-to-date with new trends in the industry.

Gaby said: “In the beauty field it doesn’t matter about your gender, as long as you are a skilled and talented professional. There is always a need for top-notch service, and I offer more than beauty treatments - I make people happy and help them to elevate their self-esteem and confidence. It’s a very rewarding feeling when I see their smile and the positive feedback I receive.”

The future of the business for Gaby lies in teaching her skills to others, with plans to create a new concept where she can offer experience as well as services.

Website: www.gabytalalabeautystudio.com

Address: Calle Dependiente 6 , San Pedro de Alcantara, Spain

Telephone: +34 674 562 916 • Facebook: @gabytalalapmu

Instagram: @Gabytalala.PMU

The Bardou: Advanced hair, beauty and aesthetics in the heart of Puerto Banus

T The Bardou, hair and beauty is much more than just that. Passionate about making her clients look and feel great, owner Dallal Oumharre has built her salon and experienced team into one of the most prestigious and well-known in Puerto Banus, Marbella.

Born and raised in Amsterdam, Dallal has been obsessed with hair and beauty since a young age. Winning the Newcomer of the Year Award in Holland’s Coiffre Awards was the beginning of her journey, which has culminated in The Bardou and the first-class team. This luxurious salon offers a vast amount of amazing services to their clients, including make-up for events and occasions, semi-permanent make-up, wedding pamper

packages, lash extensions and perfectly groomed brows, full sets of nails, as well as skin and body tightening treatments.

Marbella is known for its beaches and sea, and The Bardou can help you feel great in your bikini while enjoying the glorious Mediterranean sun! Offering plenty of body services carried out by fullytrained professionals, The Bardou provides cellulite treatments, ultrasound cavitation, HIFU body sculpting, laser

hair removal, stretch mark/ scar removal, Brazilian Bum Lifts, and a range of other advanced treatments. Not only this, The Bardou has some of the best in-house experts in aesthetics that are ex-

clusive to the salon, providing fillers, botox, a range of facials including the renowned dermaroller (vampire) facial and acid peels. And these treatments aren’t just for the females, with The Bardou also welcoming men into the salon to enjoy all of their treatments, including the ‘gents manicure’.

The team at The Bardou are incredibly passionate about making people feel and look their best, with Dallal saying: “I wanted to create a place where clients can get everything they need under one roof. We have the best team and over 40 years of experience in

hair, only using prestigious products like Mr Smith and Olaplex, and we use only the best hair extensions from around the world.

“Over the past two years, I have grown an amazing team of over 15 members covering a wide range of advanced hair and beauty services. I am so, so proud of my team, we are more like a family in the salon!” Dallal added. It’s this collaboration between the best hair and beauty specialists in the field and leading products that makes The Bardou salon so well-known in Puerto Banus. A big believer of living in the moment, making the best of every situation and motivated by being the best role model for her daughter, Dallal and the team at her salon are ready to welcome you to The Bardou.

Interview

An interview with Dallal Oumharre: The face behind The Bardou Salon, Puerto Banus

AT The Bardou salon, owner Dallal Oumharre knows that hair and beauty is not only important but a reflection of us as people. Enhancing her clients’ natural beauty while matching their personality is something that Dallal is passionate about.

The Euro Weekly News spoke to Dallal about The Bardou, their services and what inspires her to make her clients feel amazing.

Hi Dallal! Tell us a bit about yourself and your background

I was born and raised in Amsterdam and I’m from an Arab background where hair and beauty is important. For me, how we look is a reflection of us and our vibe, and I think your hair represents you.

I’ve been passionate about hair since I was around 15 and I have been beauty obsessed ever since leaving school. Before I turned 15, I was always a tomboy and I still am in some ways. It was when I won Newcomer of the Year with the Coiffure Awards in Holland at the age of 19 that the real journey started.

So hair and beauty is definitely your pas sion! Why did you decide to open The Bardou?

I moved to Marbella when I was 24 and started a family when I was 26. Having spent my whole life in a salon and enjoying family life, I had a real isation one day that there had to be more than this. I decided to go for my dream and take over The Bardou Marbella, creating a space where clients can get anything and everything they need under one roof - A one-stop-shop for all beauty needs.

That sounds like a great place to work, tell us a bit more about the services at The Bardou

We are a well-established salon in the heart of Puerto Banus, offering advanced hair, beauty and aesthetics

treatments. We also have inhouse experts in all beauty and aesthetics trades, which are exclusive to the salon. This includes make-up, nails, skin, body tightening, laser hair removal, botox, fillers, facials of all kinds and much, much more.

How do you feel about being a woman in business and what inspires and motivates you?

I believe men and women are the same in business but, of course, women rule!

Everything inspires me - daily life, different cultures, religion, fashion - I have a colourful imagination and I try and take the positives from every situation. Being authentic is to embrace those imperfections.

My main motivation is to lead by ex-

ample for my daughter. I want her to be inspired by me to do her best and be a strong and independent woman.

What advice do you have for aspiring female businesswomen?

Go with the choice that scares you the most because that’s what will help you to grow.

I feel like women can accomplish anything in this day and age. If we dig deep, we can do it - Managing salon life, a marriage, a family and everything else that goes on in this wild world. Dream BIG, be YOU and GO FOR IT. It can be hard to find balance but that is the key to life.

Also, nothing happens if you don’t make changes.

Where do you see yourself and The Bardou in 10 years?

Ten years it’s hard to say as so much changes so often in this life.

I am a big believer in living in the moment, developing myself and my business and continuing to grow. Tomorrow is not a promise and today wasn’t either, and I am grateful for every new day.

The Bardou welcomes you.

FINANCE

Jobs query

million

($28.4 million) was paid in salary last year to the Barcelona-born Spanish businessman, Ramon Laguarta, who is the chairman and chief executive officer of the US multinational PepsiCo.

BUSINESS EXTRA Safe landing

THOUSANDS of jobs in the City are at risk following the emergency merger between the Swiss banks UBS and Credit Suisse. UBS has 6,000 London employees and Credit Suisse approximately 5,000, but neither bank has yet revealed how the rushed ‘shotgun marriage’ will affect them.

Not so sweet

SUGAR has been more affected by inflation than any other product in Spain, with a 52 per cent price rise. As the country does not produce enough sugar to cover its needs, it has been exposed to international events in general and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in particular.

Outward bound

SUPERDRY, whose shares fell sharply in January, sold its intellectual property assets in much of the Asia ­ Pacific region to South Korea’s Cowell Fashion Company for approximately £40 million (€45.2m). Cowell will own and use the brand in its home market before extending to other countries, including China.

Big money

ACCORDING to Bank of Spain figures, deposits in the country’s savings accounts amounted to €1,612 billion at the end of 2022. Santander, BBVA and Caixabank between them accounted for €935 billion ­ 57.5 per cent of the total ­ compared with 53.8 per cent at the end of 2021.

Booked up

JULIA QUINN, the American author of the bestselling Bridgerton series who has sold 20 million books in the US alone, said she was optimistic that human creativity would survive, despite bookwriting chatbots. Meanwhile romantic fiction sales in the UK have doubled over the past three years.

ECB reassures bondholders

Linda Hall

IN an unexpected twist, investors in Credit Suisse’s additional tier­one (AT1) bonds saw 16 billion Swiss francs (€16 billion) slashed to zero by the UBS takeover. As a relatively risky investment, the AT1 bonds known as contingent convertibles or CocCos are a type of debt regarded as part of a bank’s regulatory capital.

They are also described as ‘bail­in’ bonds introduced to avoid a repetition of the government bailouts required during the 2008 global financial crisis.

Holders can convert CoCos into equity or write them down in certain situations, for example when a bank’s capital ratio falls below a previously­agreed threshold.

The unconventional move of prioritising Credit Suisse shareholders is at odds with the usual practice of favouring bondholders over shareholders when a bank fails and recently prompted turmoil in the market for convertible bank bonds.

Credit Suisse shareholders have received €2.788 billion in UBS shares and giving them preference in the deal was

a departure from usual practice that was criticised in most quarters.

The European Central Bank, the European Banking Authority and the Single Resolution Board emphasised that they would continue to impose losses on shareholders before bondholders.

“This approach has been consistently applied in past cases and will continue to guide the actions of the SRB and ECB banking supervision in crisis interventions,” they said.

Meanwhile, CoCos issued by Spanish banks initially fell by an average 11.1 per cent but jitters subsided, although tension remains. Uncertainty also surrounds the way market will react when banks try to reissue these assets.

New headquarters for GBR

THE UK government has chosen Derby as the headquarters of Great British Railways (GBR) which will be responsible for the country’s trains, fares and timetables.

The announcement brings with it the prospect of more jobs and investment worth multi­millions after the city beat off competition from Birmingham, Crewe, Doncaster, Newcastle and York.

“This not only a huge win for the brilliant city of Derby, but a key milestone for the entire rail industry across the

Gap rises

ENERGY SUPPORT pushed up UK government borrowing last month to its highest level for February since records began in 1993. The gulf between spending and income from taxes rose to £16.7 billion (€18.9 billion), the Office for National Statistics (ONS) announced.

The ONS explained that this was largely due to this year’s outlay on energy schemes.

At the same time, the interest paid on government debt amounted to £6.9 billion (€7.8 billion) in February, £1.3 billion (€1.5 billion) less than in February 2022, owing to changes in the inflation rate that determines the interest the government pays on its debts.

country,” Transport Secretary Mark Harper said.

Derby has had one of the lowest concentrations of civil service jobs in the country

until now, a statement from the city council said.

The move to Derby would not only bring key jobs but it also meant that the city ­ already the centre of one of Europe’s largest rail clusterswould play an even more important role in the future development of the railways, the statement continued. Derby’s rich rail heritage and innovation culture were prominent in the city’s bid, together with its rail­related industries that employ more than 11,000 people in the

Just Eat on a diet

JUST EAT, the takeaway delivery firm, will cut 1,870 UK jobs following reduced sales.

The company experienced a 9 per cent slowdown last year once Covid restrictions were relaxed and diners could return to pubs and restaurants.

As a result, the firm will no longer employ its own couriers, using contractors instead and triggering 1,700 job losses plus 170 operational roles. Drivers and riders affected by the cut­down have received six weeks’ notice.

Unlike Just Eat drivers, couriers were classed as company employees, receiving an hourly rate, an uncapped bonus and benefits that included sick pay.

“We propose to transition away from the worker model for couriers,” a spokeswoman said. “This is just a small part of our overall delivery operations in certain parts of six UK cities,” she added.

SPAIN’S banking sector is in an ‘immensely’ stronger position than it was in 2008.

Financial experts pointed out that owing to regulators’ demands that were made in the wake of the previous financial crisis, banks have had to create an anti­crisis safety net.

This has been designed to protect the economy during a hypothetical financial catastrophe and to rule out the need for a bailout that requires public money.

According to their results made public at the end of last year Spain’s six principal banks can count on an anti­crisis safety net of €213 billion, €43 billion more than required by the European Central Bank.

area, and where trains are still designed and built at the Alstrom works in the Litchurch district.

The first indication that Derby had been successful in its GBR bid arrived last February with the announcement of plans to start major regeneration in and around Derby’s railway station. Another giveaway was city council approval of a £500,000 (€567,145) loan to acquire Midland House and the adjoining car park close to Derby’s Midland Station.

Come and go

MARIO VAZ takes over Vodafone’s Spanish division at the end of March.

This coincides with the exit of the company’s Irish­born CEO, Colman Deegan, following a series of poor quarterly results.

Vaz has had a successful track record in Portugal, which has many points in common with the Spanish market. These include a fully­developed market that combines telephone and data communication within a single network and aggressive competition from the entry of new low­cost operators.

Vaz now faces the challenge of returning Vodafone España to increased earnings and profits, as it faces competition from budget operators like the increasingly­present Digi.

No thanks

ONLY 9 per cent of Britain’s over50s who are retired said the Budget’s pensions giveaway could entice them back to work.

Measures included an increase in the annual pension allowance, eliminating the lifetime limit and hiking the amount that those who have drawn funds can put back each year, but the ‘back to work’ Budget did not sway retirees.

“For most, saving enough to breach the lifetime allowance or the annual pension allowance is a distant pipedream and for others little could induce them back to work,” financial experts agreed.

Down to earth

AENA has lost 90 per cent of the court cases that it has brought against rent defaulters.

Spain’s airports group had unsuccessfully hoped to be able to overturn new legislation affecting the rents paid by retail tenants, but 24 out of 26 sentences were entirely or partly in favour of claimants.

All had called for re­negotiated rents owing to the absence of passengers during the pandemic but the group considered that amendments to the law, obliging it to drop rents during this time, were unconstitutional.

ECB: Preference will go to bondholders over shareholders, the European Central Bank said.

MIKE HARPER: Transport Secretary announced Derby as choice for GBR headquarters

Photo credit: CC/DXR

Photo credit: CC/Richard Townsend

Ice cap

MULTIPACKS of Magnums now contain three ice creams instead of four, following a reduction in size from 110 to 100 millilitres last year. Neither has there been a change in the £3 (€3.4) price, which manufacturer Unilever attributed to the skyrocketing cost of ingredients and raw materials.

Pay scales

SPANISH government officials earned more last year than its politicians, with most going to Belen Gualda, who heads the State Industrial Ownership Corporation (SEPI). She received a pretax total of €237,986 compared with the €87,814 earned by Pedro Sanchez, president of the Spanish government.

In fashion

MARKS AND SPENCER recently received upgrades from three City brokers as Goldman Sachs, Citigroup and BNP Paribas raised share target prices and ratings. The latter described M&S as the “most improved brand since Covid” with analysts raising the target price from 140p ((€1.58) to 160p (€1.81).

Seat bonus

SEAT personnel at the Martorell plant in Barcelona will receive a €1,599 bonus thanks to the carmaker’s 2022 operating profit of €33 million, the UGT and CCOO trade unions announced. The employees will receive the bonus, the largest amount that Seat has ever paid out, on April 14.

Sell it

NOSTALGIA is pushing up the value of retro items like Pokemon cards, Casio watches and Polaroid cameras, which can sometimes fetch thousands of pounds at auction. Millennials and Gen Z could be sitting on a fortune, dealers said, as prices have risen by 200 per cent since 2019.

Centrica boss blasted

CHRIS O’SHEA’S £4.5 million (€5.08 million) take­home pay and £3.7 million (€4.18 million) bonus was greeted with outrage in the UK.

O’Shea is CEO of British Gas’s parent company Centrica and angry consumer groups told him to “examine his conscience” as millions of UK households struggled to pay for heating.

The CEO’s rewards were five times higher than the previous year although that time the Centrica boss waived his bonus owing to high energy bills.

The company announced record profits not long after the Times newspaper revealed that debt agents working for British Gas had been breaking into the homes of vulnerable customers to fit prepayment meters when they were unable to pay their bills.

These disclosures produced protests from consumer groups who had been campaigning for at­risk families to receive more support to help them with­

Visit to Brazil

stand the cost of living crisis.

Downing Street also prompted energy regulator Ofgem to open an investigation into British Gas’s treatment of struggling households.

Centrica’s remuneration committee failed to make any mention in its annual report of the British Gas prepayment scandal.

On the contrary, it defended O’Shea’s annual bonus, maintaining that he had delivered on his objectives of developing an ‘energy transition’ plan.

O’Shea had “successfully navigated challenging regulatory and political issues,” the committee said, at the same time “delivering shareholder value through new investment opportunities and portfolio­shaping.”

Ferrovial’s unknowns

FERROVIAL failed to factor in the unforeseeable when deciding to relocate its headquarters to the Netherlands.

The plan remains unchanged, but the Spanish multinational is watching its share price following Silicon Valley Bank and Silvergate Capital collapse in the US, and Credit Suisse in Europe.

Ferrovial will buy out shareholders voting against the Netherlands move at €26.0075 per share in the course of an April 13 meeting. This was arrived at by averaging Ferrovial’s share price over the three months prior to February 27, the day before it dropped its Netherlands bombshell.

At the time, the company contemplated few desertions and, assuming that these would account for a negligible percentage of its capital, fixed a €500 million maximum payout for shareholders opposing the relocation.

Despite the Spanish government’s opposition to Ferrovial’s relocation, the company was confident that this would be plain sailing, until the current financial situation produced fluctuations in its share price. This has since settled comfortably above the €26 mark.

Anything below that would raise shareholders’

FERROVIAL: Infrastructure multinational going ahead with Netherlands move.

doubts, although there is nothing to stop the company from renouncing the €500 million ceiling should enough shareholders decide to bail out.

But this possibility, Ferrovial sources insisted, would not be analysed “until the moment requires it.”

Not enough increase

AMAZON employees working in the UK are planning further industrial action.

The strike warning came as they dismissed a 50p (56.5 cents) pay rise, bringing the minimum hourly pay for warehouse workers to £11 (€12.42).

The company argued that with this latest increase an Amazon worker’s minimum pay will have risen by 10 per cent over the past seven months, putting it above the legal minimum rate of £10.42

(€11.77) an hour for the over­23s.

“We have listened to Amazon workers and the message is very clear,” said Amanda Gearing, a senior official from the GMB union which has backed workers at the Coventry warehouse in the first ­ ever strikes by Amazon’s UK employees.

“This new pay rate is an insult,” she declared. “In response we will be consulting over the next few days and announcing a new wave of action.”

Tous shines bright

JEWELLERY and accessories company

Tous closed 2022 with record sales and its highest profits in almost 15 years.

Ceasing operations in Russia following the Ukraine invasion had a negative impact of €7 million after Tous closed seven shops there and transferred 49 to its local partners. Nevertheless, growth was 17 per cent up on 2021 and 4 per cent above that of pre­pandemic 2019.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depre­

IBERDROLA chairman Ignacio Galan and Brazil’s president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva recently visited the company’s pioneering energy complex.

The €630 million plant, which is located in Paraiba, in the northeast of the country, will supply electricity to 1.3 million homes while preventing the emission of more than 100,000 tons of carbon dioxide each year, Galan said.

The complex consists of 15 wind farms equipped with a total of 136 turbines and an installed capacity of 471.2 megawatts, plus two solar plants with 228,000 panels and a 149.2 megawatt­peak capacity.

Doesn’t add up

SPAIN’S young are no longer attracted to a career in accountancy.

Multinationals and small firms worldwide have been warning governments for some time of a decrease of newlyqualified students choosing to become accountants or auditors.

This has become apparent not only at university when young people decide on the studies and future careers, explained a spokesperson for one of the Big Four accountants, Deloitte, Ernst & Young (EY), PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), and Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG).

“It’s not only that fewer graduates want to become accountants,” they said. “Many decide to leave and go on to something different after working for two or three years.”

B&Q locals

B&Q could open at least 50 small and medium­sized stores across Britain. The DIY multinational is meeting the demand for accessible local stores where goods ordered online could also be picked up, B&Q sources said.

ciation and amortisation (Ebitda) grew 26 per cent year­on­year to €101 million and the Catalan company’s net profits rose 60 per cent to €35.7 million.

“In a complicated and changing socioeconomic environment, we have been brave and presented our new brand identity ­ which has been very well received ­ to stay ahead of the market,” said the company’s CEO Carlos Soler­Duffo.

The chain already has B&Q Locals in London and the group has earmarked locations for another 50 nationwide.

Medium­sized sites of between 4,000 and 5,000 square metres are likewise under consideration, in contrast to traditional B&Q centres occupying 12,000 square metres, while the new high street stores would range from 300 to 800 square metres.

CHRIS O’SHEA: Centrica CEO with former PM Liz Truss.

Photo credit: Flickr/Andrew Parsons/No 10 Downing Street

Photo credit: Ferrovial

NORAJOHNSON BREAKINGVIEWS

Here we all are again!

The recent scathing Casey Review of the Metropolitan Police reminds us yet again of the institutional racism at its core. Commissioned by the Home Office in response to the kidnap, rape and murder of Sarah Everard by serving Met officer Wayne Couzens, Baroness Casey’s report reconfirms that the Met remains institutionally racist, but goes even further.

It also accuses Britain’s biggest police force of being institutionally sexist, misogynistic and homophobic and suggests it could be broken up if it doesn’t improve. For Baroness Doreen Lawrence (mother of murdered black teenager Stephen Lawrence) its findings were "no surprise".

Baroness Casey uncovered evidence of widespread failings, including chronic under­resourcing for tackling crimes against women and children, the collapse of neighbourhood policing and oversight failures which have allowed predatory behaviour to "flourish". Too many officers found guilty of gross misconduct hide in plain sight and keep their jobs like David

‘ROTTEN TO THE CORE’

Met itself is plainly unacceptable. The force’s problems are too deep­rooted.

But there is, undoubtedly, an urgent need for reform – the biggest overhaul in policing since the Met was created nearly 200 years ago. Reforms like those that led to the transformation of the Royal Ulster Constabulary to the Police Service of Northern Ireland at the end of the last century.

Now, it may be accurate to describe the Met as the report has done. However, as any company turnaround specialist knows, there are invariably competent and committed people at middle management level. But, as is often the case, it is at the top level where the changes should be made. Not just the person at the top but all those at the very top. In similar circumstances in a business setting, an experienced executive is often seconded from HQ and immediately takes on the responsibilities to turn the company around.

that his or her career is protected whatever the outcome. It’ll need to be someone who can circumvent the inherent political influence of the Mayor and others.

We need a people's champion, someone who can support the many good policemen and women who are the backbone of the force. Someone who can restore faith in policing. This top­down approach is required in London ­ and it is required immediately.

But I’ll leave the final words to Baroness Lawrence herself: the Met is still "rotten to the core" and has had "30 years to put its house in order" since her son's murder but has failed to do, "either because it does not want to or it does not know how to".

Consequently, I’m sure this latest scandal will run and run – a bit like, I suppose, 92 ­ year ­ old Rupert Murdoch’s engagements, marriages and divorces...

So, what can be done? Should the Met be broken up or can it be saved? Breaking it up would be a drastic step, and one unlikely to solve the issues identified. Leav­

Surely there’s an experienced, competent, successful Chief Constable or ACC in the UK who could be trusted to take on what is an obvious mess in London? Give him or her complete authority, ensure

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

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.

Fresh air needed

PEKING UNIVERSITY

(Beijing) analysed the records of 389,000 people living in the UK over a 10 ­ year period, estimating their exposure to air pollution.

This included PM2.5 ­ particles so small they can pass through the lungs into the bloodstream ­ and nitrogen dioxide emitted by vehicles.

Happy talk

COVID­19 took 6.7 million lives but has not affected humankind’s general happiness, the latest World Happiness Report found.

Cross purposes

Over this period 13,131 people were diagnosed with depression and 15,835 with anxiety.

Those exposed to most air pollution were 16 per cent more likely to develop clinical depression and 11 per cent more likely to develop anxiety, the researchers found.

Interviews with more than 100,000 people in 137 countries found “significantly” higher levels of benevolence in all global regions than before the pandemic.

Evaluating their lives on a scale of one to 10, people usually gave scores as high during the Covid years as in 2017­19.

The report also found attitudes were ‘slightly’ more pessimistic in western countries but rather better in the rest of the world.

More variety needed

SO much diet advice is currently based on restrictions, said Kirsten Jackson, who is also known as the IBS Dietitian. She pointed out that too often guidance focuses on restricting calories and fat. Instead, Jackson recommends adding to your diet ­ and plants above all ­ for optimum gut health.

“We should aim to eat at least 30 different plants a week,” she said. Even coffee would count as one, she explained, and a spice as another. “Grains too, so don’t stick to wheat­based bread and pasta but add barley, rice and quinoa. Add herbs to dishes and snack on nuts and you’ll soon reach 30.”

Linda Hall

ARE you sitting comfortably?

If you are, your legs are probably crossed at the knee or ankle but whichever you prefer, it’s bad for you.

Professor Adam Taylor, who is director of the Clinical Anatomy Learning Centre at Lancaster University, warned that leg ­ crossing could misalign the hips and trigger long­term changes in the spine and shoulders. The head can also move

Good & bad

THE good news is that coffee boosts the calories which people burn each day.

The bad news is that they sleep less, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

out of place owing to changes in the bones of the neck, caused by over­compensating to keep the body’s centre of gravity above the pelvis.

Over time, sitting with crossed legs can also cause a muscle imbalance between the right and left sides of the body, Professor Taylor said.

It can also obstruct blood vessels in the lower limbs, slowing down blood flow and eventually lead to blood clots.

University of California cardiologist, Dr Gregory Marcus, tracked 100 adults for two weeks, monitoring their movements and sleep patterns on the days when they did or did not drink coffee.

Results suggested people who drink coffee regularly walk 1,000 more steps than non­drinkers each day, but they lose out on around 30 minutes of sleep at night.

“The reality is that coffee is not all good or all bad, but has different effects,” Dr Marcus said.

Photo credit: Pixabay/Pexels

LEG CROSSING: Not always a good idea.

Pull your socks up

WHILE nights are still chilly, wearing socks could help you to sleep better.

According to clinical psychologist Dr Michael Breus, research suggests that wearing socks to bed not only helps people to fall asleep faster, but they sleep longer and wake up fewer times throughout the night.

More investigation into bed socks was needed, Dr Breus said, although the ‘unique’ relationship between body temperature and sleep was established decades ago.

At one’s fingertips

USE the fingertip unit method (FTU) when applying an ointment or cream prescribed by the doctor. An FTU is the amount of any semi­solid that can be squeezed from the tip of an adult’s index finger as far as the crease of the first joint.

One FTU is enough to treat an area of skin twice the size of the flat of an adult’s hand with the fingers together or, in other words, ‘a handprint’.

Live off the land

Linda Hall

AS well as gentle exercise and walking, the right kind of food will always help arthritis and it’s all abundant on the Costas.

Eat cholesterol ­ busting oily fish like sardines, mackerel and fresh tuna at least once a week. And always cook with olive oil or sunflower oil ­ worth it despite the price­hike ­ as they both contribute towards reducing inflammation.

Dark leafy chard (acelgas) is generally around and often grows wild in

GARLIC: Its properties help to prevent cartilage damage.

gardens here once you let it in, while garlic’s diallyl disulfide can help to work

against the enzymes in your body that damage cartilage.

A topical topic

ATOPIC DERMATITIS (AD) is no more and no less than the most common type of eczema.

Skin becomes red, inflamed and in some cases may flake. Although generally considered a childhood ailment, a peak time for developing adult­onset AD is in your 50s.

Common triggers include soaps, detergents, shampoo, washing ­ up liquid and bubble bath.

Environmental factors like cold or dry weather and dampness also play an important part, as do dust mites, pet fur, pollen and moulds.

Some foods produce flare ­ ups as well as anti­hypertension medication and diuretics, especially in the elderly.

Well-done, please

UNDERCOOKED meat could be responsible for hundreds of thousands of urinary tract infections (UTIs) every year,

39% of women wear makeup daily.

scientists have warned.

In Britain, UTIs are responsible for an annual seven million GP consultations and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has pinpointed E coli as the most common cause.

Meanwhile, US researchers spent a year matching UTI­causing E coli with the E coli found in meat and found that approximately 8 per cent were derived from the E Coli strains lurking in raw meat like chicken, turkey and pork.

BUBBLE BATH: Its ingredients are best avoided for atopic dermatitis

Vitamin D helps, but moisturisers are the most usual AD treatment although dermatologists recommend avoiding those containing fragrances, essential oils, urea, lanolin, retinoids and ethanol amongst other ingredients.

FOR many years referees have followed the script. When Manchester United are losing or in danger of not winning, either they are awarded a penalty or an opposing player is sent off. If both these options are applied at the same time, the partiality will become too obvious. This happened recently against Fulham. Otherwise refs can allow a dodgy goal for the Reds, prolong ‘Fergie time’ until they win or disallow a legitimate goal for the opposition. It happens regularly.

These tactics naturally incense the opposing side and tempts them to react when their protests are ignored. But, after decades, the supporters, players and management of other clubs simply wring their hands in frustration in the knowledge that they are powerless. This is all about moneythe scourge of the modern game.

And so, nothing changes. It’s a vicious circle as the wealthiest, most high­profile clubs will always be assisted towards victory and titles, thus further increasing their privileged positions.

In the recent FA Cup tie, the players and manager of Fulham, decided enough was enough. They were leading 1­0 and in command of the match. With 15 minutes to go, Man U were in danger of losing. But this time the ref went over the top, by awarding them a penalty and sending off a Fulham player. The Fulham players refused to accept this blatant discrimination and they

DAVID WORBOYS THINKING ALOUD

FIXING IT

Photo Credits: pinterest and worldsoccerpins.com

over­reacted, giving the perfect excuse for two further red cards. Job done! The Reds went on to beat the nine men 3­1. With suspensions, it will prove very costly for Fulham’s aspirations for the Champions League ­ normally reserved for the already wealthy clubs. But will their reaction finally bring to light the corruption involved in favouring Man U and other very

Help support our mission

THE British Benevolent Fund was founded over a century ago to act as a charity of last resort for those Britons in Spain facing extreme financial hardship. A century ago, there were only handful of Britons who were able to come to Spain for leisure.

Today around 19 million Britons visit Spain on holiday.

The vast majority enjoy the warmth and hospitality that Spain has always shown to visitors and holidays pass trouble free. But not always.

A much misheld view is that the UK consular network can fund visitors to return home if this goes wrong.

Earlier this month we were contacted by a consular office about an urgent case of a divorced father who had come on holiday to Spain with his two young children. His former wife had given permission for the trip.

What transpired was that the father was a former alcoholic who almost as soon as arriving at the hotel started drinking. He didn’t stop ­ the hotel quickly realised there was a problem with

their guest and were concerned for the welfare of the children.

The manager ordered the hotel staff not to serve him but still he found a way.

The police were then calledit is of course no crime to drink but the safety of the children was now paramount.

The consulate were alerted to explain that the children would need to be put into care unless there was an immediate solution.

That’s where the BBF came in ­ the mother was aghast to find out the situation ­ but had hardly any resources ­ let alone money for a last­minute flight then return with the children. This we were able to do. She arrived the following day and was met by the hotel manager and waiting police for the handover to her of her children. With that, this ap­

palling situation which could have so quickly taken on a nightmare for the children, was resolved and they were able to return safe and sound.

The BBF can only help her and other urgent cases with the generosity of others. If you would like to support our mission with a donation to help those who have nowhere else to turn ­ please visit www.britishbenevolent fund.org. Olaf Clayton, Chair British Benevolent Fund

wealthy ones?

This is in the financial interests of so many involved in the ‘beautiful game’. The owners and sponsors of these ‘establishment’ clubs have enormous influence and their money buys the most successful managers and players. They don’t have to be seen to perform but they do have to get the results. With such investment in them, these

SALLY UNDERWOOD POLITICAL ANIMAL

WELL well well, Jeremy Corbyn has been officially banned from standing as a Labour candidate at the next general election, has he?

What a phenomenally effective metaphor for the rollercoaster that is politics.

Corbyn, who had been a largely­unknown Labour MP for 32 years before springing to power as the party’s leader in 2015, is just one of hundreds of politicians to have seen their star rise to the giddy heights before crashing back down to earth in blaze (generally of ignominy).

Until just three years ago, ‘Corbynmania’ saw thousands come out at his regular public rallies, his Twitter following was booming, and a crowd of photographers hovered habitually outside his front door.

And now what? The once world famous politican now faces losing his membership of the very party he previously led.

This column is not a defence of Corbyn,

clubs need to maintain their high profile for marketing reasons. The resulting sale of shirts and other club merchandise generates billions. These billions are dependent on winning trophies or at least being serious contenders for them. Managers are sacked at the first indication of a lapse in results. Leicester City’s Claudio Ranieri was sacrificed less than one year after winning the title, against all the odds, for a smaller, ‘non­establishment’ club.

Man U, more than any other side has seemed untouchable for generations. It can only be hoped that Fulham’s brave but excessive reactions will shed further light on a situation that makes a mockery of level playing fields and fair competition. But I fear it will simply result in vociferous denial and the charade will continue.

For more from our columnists please scan this QR Code

by the way. Far from it. His handling of antisemitism allegations within his party did not reveal someone fit to represent others.

What his career does highlight however, is the dizzyingly fast ascent and descent of our political leaders in public opinion.

But what Corbyn’s case also reveals is the contrast of the speed of public fall from grace compared to the speed at which any actual accountability comes into force.

If the Labour Party agree that what Corbyn did is so wrong, why has it taken them three years to vote on throwing him out of the party?

This in itself shines a light on one of the oddities of the UK political system. It is often said that being an MP is pretty much the only job in the world in which day one you could immediately take up residence under a palm tree in, say, the Bahamas, and merrily collect your salary each month for the next four to five years until the next election.

In the last 10 years, rules have at least tightened to mean that MPs can actually now be fired. But as Corbyn’s example shows, we’re still a long way away from full accountability.

Sally’sopinionsareherownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

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

Money is indirectly the cause of discrimination against less privileged clubs.

Olaf Clayton of BBF.

A NEW episode of #MarbellaNow comes out every Thursday evening at 11pm on RTV Marbella. Tonight meet my CIT Marbella guest of the week, Marbella Translators with Barbara García Fehse. I can’t stress enough the importance of getting professional translations for everything, from a menu to a social media post or legal contract; first impressions are lasting impressions and if you’re going to sign something, make sure you know what it says.

In a Spanish court of law only the Spanish version counts, so ensuring you haven’t been duped in the

MARBELLA MOMENTS

BY NICOLE KING

translation is another factor to consider. Marbella Translators is more than just a translation service though as they also provide services to help you negotiate basically any situation where communication or not speaking the language becomes an issue, online or in person.

One of Barbara’s clients is lawyer Charisse Prieto Garcia, who also prides herself on the excellence and personal relationships

Tonight’s the night

with her clients. In tonight’s programme Charisse clarifies, as far as is possible with all the continuous changes, the updates on how to exchange the driving licence for British residents.

Interesting events coming up include one starting tonight: ‘The Phantom Returns’ starring international singer Michael Sterling back at Salon Varietes. The show continues on Friday March 31 and Saturday April 1, which I will be at! You can contact the Theatre directly for tickets for all performances.

Learn more about the upcoming event ‘Uniting the World1 being held at Puente Romano to raise funds for various charities on April 21.

Mark Ballabon, philosopher, environmentalist

Got a pain in the Ar*e?

PHYSICAL THERAPIST , Marcel Salazar, explains the difference between sciatica and piriformis syndrome, both of which result in pain through the buttock and travelling down the leg even reaching the toes.

Marcel explains that sciatica originates at the base of the spine with an inflammation of the sciatic nerve root, often as a result of herniation or a bony spur resulting in compression of the nerve root at the base of the spine.

However, Marcel explains that he is seeing a spate of problems, often wrongly diagnosed as sciatica, but which originates lower down in the piriformis muscle deep in the buttock, but which can also produce the pain down the back of the leg towards the toes.

Both of these conditions can be treated successfully but they are often misdi­

agnosed by overstretched GPs who make the assumption that all sciatic pain comes from the same root, ie the base of the spine. Medication can help to reduce the pain, but will not on its own resolve the problem, especially if it has been misdiagnosed.

Knowing what the source of the problem is, is vital to decide on the type of treatment which will be effective. This is a classic time for piriformis syndrome after a perhaps less active winter and trying to complete with a pre winter level of fitness and even a slight imbalance

from left to right can potentially lead to inflammation of the piriformis and the resulting sciatic pain. Whilst both conditions generally have a solution, sciatica will need a longer course of treatment as it is primarily a mechanical problem as opposed to piriformis syndrome which is a musculoskeletal issue and can be treated successfully is fewer sessions.

Marcel can be contacted via his website https://www.strongforlife. me/ and the full interview can he heard on https://youtu.be/lTmd HzfLOa0

and author of ‘Home ­ My Life in the Universe’ made for a most thought ­ provoking chat, leaving us with a final question that will serve us all well to consider. Mark has been in Marbella visiting local schools with his workshops to help accept that it’s OK to live comfortably within our own skin just as we are and to own it!

Summarising last week’s show MN390 ­ Firstly Veronika Ulkina introduced us to the top notch classical events she’s presenting on the Costa del Sol, from ballet to Bach. Grant Foster specialises in Hypnotherapy to help us negotiate our fears and anxieties. Join me at the official opening party of the new law firm on the

block (and UNMS Sponsors) ‘Nockolds’ and at the Age Concern Marbella Coffee Morning at Urban Chai. My CIT Marbella guest of the week was Patricia Laffitte of Martinez Echevarria Lawyers.

For all couples don’t miss the chat with Isabella Magdala, psychologist and sexologist. She outlines the most common issues that negatively affect a relationship. Having children is one of them as we tend to forget the partnership in preference of family, instead of cultivating both aspects.

Most past recordings are available from my YouTube channel @Nicole KingMarbella. Thank you for sharing my guests’ messages and your continued support. #BetterTogether #Marbella

My lovely Marbella Now guests.

Learning curve

LINDA HALL

ARE there still trileros in Benidorm?

I’ve not been back for years and since I’ve not read about them in the Alicante media the authorities must have won their ongoing battle with them.

I’m referring to the groups that I first saw 40 years ago, playing the Spanish version of the three­card trick with hollowed­out potatoes.

They operated on the Paseo and the Avenida del Mediterraneo, playing amongst themselves to persuade passers ­ by that winning was like taking candy from a baby although once someone put their money down it was literally a fair bet that they’d lose.

Without wanting to tangle with Spain’s discrimination laws, there’s no denying that the trileros were invariably gypsies. In the early Benidorm days they included some good ­ looking young men with long curly Cameron de la Isla perms but there was little glamour attached to them and they were neither lovable

Global swanning

rogues nor engaging villains.

Nevertheless, I once witnessed an edifying episode that had nothing to do with their trade as I waited for a bus in the Plaza Triangular and watched a young but veteran trilero repeatedly pushing a much smaller version of himself onto a school bus.

The child screamed, the young man shouted and deposited the wailing boy aboard, upon which the child wailed more loudly and hurtled back down again.

The father ­ older brother? ­ tried to put the squirming, shrieking bundle back on the bus but by now the driver was losing his patience and the trilero was one step away from meltdown.

He was used to an audience, but not one like this and swore as the child leapt to the pavement once more before he brusquely scooped him up and strode off.

It was admirable that despite the child’s lack of co ­ operation it should be an attempt to give him an education. But was that in the interests of integration or was it meant to help the boy to grow up to be a better trilero?

CASSANDRA NASH

OPPOSITION leader, the Partido Popular’s Albero Nuñez Feijoo accused Pedro Sanchez of “paying homage to autocrats” at the recent Ibero­American summit.

It was unclear which autocrats the president of Spain’s government fawned over, as Venezuela’s undeniably autocratic president Nicolas Maduro was absent, although the country was represented at the summit.

Likewise Daniel Ortega, Nicaragua’s former revolutionary­turned­dictator. Instead, the country’s Foreign Minister Denis Moncada listened with gritted teeth as Chile’s president Gabriel Boric condemned Ortega’s decision to strip 94 Nicaraguan writers, journalists and human rights activists of their nationality. Cuba was present naturally, but Spain has always had a co­dependent relationship with Cuba and Franco, a Galician like Fidel Castro, maintained friendly relations with Cuba . Castro reciprocated with three days’ mourning when Franco died in November 1975.

Former PP president Jose Maria Aznar was once photographed with Fidel Castro and another PP president Mariano Rajoy, who participated in Ibero­American sum­

mits, reprimanded socialist president Jose Luis Zapatero’s for missing the 2010 Argentina meeting during the economic crisis.

Notably present at the Santo Domingo meeting was Spain’s head of state, King Felipe, also presumably kowtowing to the Latin American autocrats.

Moncloa ­ Spain’s equivalent of Downing Street ­ was quick to respond, counter­accusing Feijoo of “ignorance” as well as “insolvency” and “bad faith.”

Feijoo is unlikely to lose much sleep over any of this.

As the local and regional elections approach, the PP leads the PSOE in most polls, apart from the Centre for Sociological Investigation (CIS) whose president Jose Felix Tezanos is a Sanchez fan. CIS predictions consistently contradict other polls, including that of the largely pro­government daily, El Pais.

As Spain prepares to take over the sixmonth European Council presidency on July 1, Pedro Sanchez is currently here, there and everywhere, not only in Santo Domingo but also Beijing.

He admittedly cuts an imposing figure but not only PP voters are tired of his global swanning and their PSOE counterparts increasingly fail to share the CIS’s confidence.

AT LIBERTY SEGUROS they know how important it is for you to receive personalised attention and quality service tailored to your individual needs.

Thanks to more than 200 dedicated expat Brokers and Agents all over Spain who really understand your needs and speak your language, you will be able to receive a more bespoke, more agile and more tailored service, with firsthand expert advice ­ whether in person or by phone, email or WhatsApp.

They will not only recommend the most appropriate insurance for your current circumstances, but will also talk to you about the different covers that you can take out. Many coverages go unnoticed or are simply not asked about because it can be assummed that they will make the policy much more expensive; but this is not always the case.

In addition, whether you need to make a claim or want to modify or clarify a point in your policy, you can always speak directly with the

First-hand expert advice plus great offers… That’s Liberty!

breaks down ­ as standard, at no extra cost and book value plus 30 per cent compensation in case of total loss or theft for vehicles over four years old. Damages caused by collision with wild animals will be also covered, without the policy holder paying excess either.

take out a new Car, Home or Life policy with LIBERTY SEGUROS will receive €50 Cashback. Whilst this offer is not available for renewals or replacements, there’s no limit on the number of new policies that can be taken out per customerand therefore, there’s no limit on cashback rewards.

With Home policies, LIBERTY SEGUROS offers extended cover for garden and terrace furniture, repair of white goods and TVs and cover for jewellery outside the home. When it comes to Life policies, with LIBERTY SEGUROS you can also opt for Level Term Life Insurance with no premium increase for 10 years, as well as international repatriation cover or cover for critical illness.

person that you dealt with in the firstplace; the person who knows your case and who will attend to you personally. For your Broker or Agent, you will never be a case number or just another client!

What’s more, LIBERTY SEGUROS looks to always make things that bit better with fantastic offers for both existing and new customers. From now up until June 27, 2023, both new and existing clients who

There are many advantages of relying on a reputable insurer such as LIBERTY SEGUROS, which has high quality products that can be fully customised to your needs and at very affordable prices.

There’s more; you can get a courtesy car ­ even if your vehicle

It’s not hard to understand why LIBERTY SEGUROS has become in the preferred expat insurer in Spain with over 150,000 international clients.

With this in mind, there couldn’t be a better time to switch to LIBERTY SEGUROS for even greater savings with the very best cover for all your main insurances.

SAVING THE PLANET

I THINK that on average, we humans are not a bad bunch really, nor are we entirely stupid. Unless you live in an isolated village in the Amazon Rain Forest with no contact with the outside world, you are aware of many things that put us as a species in danger. The truth is that governments want us to change our way of life and our habits in a claim that it will save the planet. I won’t go into the sheer manipulated rants of St Greta of Thunberg, but she is also part of the political machine that wants to impose carbon lockdowns, soon to be a reality in some UK cities. Spain has already decreed that Spanish populations over 50,000 inhabitants MUST impose Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ) in their municipalities.

You just have to mention ‘Climate Change’ in a council meeting and the arms go up in favour of new measures before they even know what they are voting for. I am sure that some shoulders have almost been dislocated in the fervour to save the planet. In reality, they vote in favour of action and generally it is followed by little or nothing. They still have no hesitation in summoning 25 councillors to Mijas Pueblo for a 10­minute meeting that could have been resolved by a video call.

They talk about putting solar panels on bus stops without considering a cost benefit analysis. They talk about more Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points, without a study of how many fully electric vehicles we have, and where these should be strategically placed for most benefit.

My big concern with all of this is that we are not looking at the bigger or long term picture. My question is whether we are in

Noah’s Ark plants

NOAH’S ARK for plants hits important milestone: 40,000 different plant species now banked at Kew’s Millennium Seed Bank at Wakehurst, England.

A world­leading seed conservation programme led by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is celebrating a major milestone in its efforts to preserve rare, threatened, and important wild plants.

The Millennium Seed Bank (MSB) has banked more than 2.4 billion individual seeds representing a total of 40,020 different species of wild plants.

Described by scientists as ‘Noah’s Ark for plants’, the MSB is the world’s biggest wild seed storage facility, situated at the heart of Kew’s ‘living laboratory’ and wild botanic gardens, Wake­

hurst, in rural Sussex.

Within the bomb and flood ­ proof building are 98,567 seed collections sourced from 190 countries and territories, across all seven continents, nine biogeographic regions, and 36 biodiversity hotspots.

In fact, the MSB holds the Guinness World Records title for world’s ‘largest seed bank’.

MSB’s Senior Research Leader, Dr Elinor Breman, confirmed: “Housed within the vaults of the Millennium Seed Bank is the world’s largest and most diverse collection of plants anywhere on the planet which makes it an invaluable tool for scientists tackling the global biodiversity crisis.”

danger of doing random things to protect the climate at the cost of destroying the environment.

There is a fallacy that Lithium ion batteries cannot be recycled. They can be. But, whether or not we have the facilities available to us that can do this is another issue. What cannot be disputed, however, is that Lithium mines across the world are causing environmental disasters: in Tibet, in South

America where not only pollution is putting everyone at risk, but also where often scarce supplies of water are being diverted away from farmers to mining activities. For every tonne of lithium produced, 1.9 million litres of water are used.

I am not convinced that cleaning up our own backyard at the expense of damaging others is a fair trade off. But, bringing this down to a very human and personal level, how are the poorest, who are already choosing between eating and heating going to afford to get rid of their petrol engines for allegedly much more environmentally friendly electric vehicles, or should they go back to arriving at work on the back of a donkey (oops ... that is a controversial topic)?

It is a very romantic notion that we should be working in conjunction with nature to provide our power, but we are still cutting down trees to put down more concrete, destroying natural habitats to build solar farms, and killing the most endangered large bird species with wind turbines. Politicians seriously need to engage their brains before raising their arms in favour of anything that simply makes them look like that are caring for the world.

In Salar de Atacama, mining activities consumed up to 65 per cent of the region’s water, causing havoc for local farmers.

(credit: Francesco Mocellin)

40,000 species.

Dealing with mosquitos

Movie award

ADRIA Mobil’s brand movie has been awarded the ‘First Star ­ Golden Award’ for outstanding brand communication in the ‘Caravanning’ category at the renowned international ‘Golden City Gate Awards’.

Twenty­one countries took part in the international competition, submitting over 100 marketing entries from the tourism sector in various categories.

These were evaluated according to the criteria of concept, creativity, emotional impact, target group appeal, image design and overall design, among others.

The ‘Golden City Gate’ is an important international com­

petition in the field of tourism marketing and took place this year for the 23rd time.

The festive award ceremony was held during the International Tourism Exchange (ITB) in Berlin.

The ITB is a B2B trade fair that has been taking place since 1966 and is the world’s largest trade congress for the travel industry.

As a company based in Slovenia, Adria Mobil was also delighted to see the Slovenian Tourist Board (STB), Slovenia, win four gold and one silver award in various categories and Ljubljana Tourism, Slovenia, take home two gold awards.

Congratulations!

Camping tips

WHILE everybody loves to go camping and live in the outdoors it does have some downsides. Learning how to protect yourself from mosquitos while camping in Spain is definitely something you have to think about.

Firstly don’t leave any standing water around in buckets or any other containers. This avoids leaving a ready made breeding ground. Also any swimming pools in campsites should be well treated with the water circulating, again to prevent mosquitos using them to breed.

If you have children or babies with you on your camping trip, try using mosquito netting to cover their sleeping quarters.

When out walking or hiking, wear long sleeved tops and long trousers, together with socks ­ this means the maximum amount of skin is covered.

You can also use outdoor ‘bug’ lights and mosquito repellent candles which normally contain citronella

Using the correct repellent and any other preventive actions are the best things to discourage mosquitos. Humans’ blood

unfortunately seems to appeal to mosquitos and using the correct repellent is important.

Most sprays you can buy in the supermarkets do not smell very pleasant, but they do keep the mosquitos at bay.

IN 2020, a boy raised more than £700,000 for charity after spending 600 consecutive nights in a tent outside his house and compiled a list of tips for camping beginners.

Max Woosey, who was 12 at the time, captured the hearts of the nation by camping out to raise money for local hospices, and wanted to encourage others to get outside.

Checking the weather in advance, packing flip flops for night­time trips to the toilet, and zipping up all entrances to keep the bugs at bay were among his top advice.

His advice came after a survey of 2,000 people was carried out which found that one in six adults had never been camping, and 23 per cent had only been once or twice.

Of the more inexperienced campers polled, 46 per cent admitted bad weather can put them off, while 44 per cent did not relish the idea of an uncomfortable night’s sleep.

Having to leave the tent in the middle of the night for the toilet and feeling cold at night were other reasons some said they avoided the outdoors.

The International School Estepona

THE International School Estepona is based in the heart of El Paraiso and is fully licensed with the Junta de Andalucia, alongside a member of NABSS. The school provides a safe, inspiring, personalised and fun learning environment for international students to learn. This is reinforced by ensuring that class sizes remain small and tailored to each child’s needs.

The International School Estepona was established in 2004 and is the educational home to just over 100 children from all over the world aged from two12 years. The school was purpose built and is different to what you see from other schools in the area. During the school’s most recent inspection by the British Council, ISE achieved the full four years’ authorisation. The inspectors also

commented, ‘how unusual it was to see a small school with such large gardens and sports

facilities’.

The school is British and the primary school Maths and En ­

glish curriculum, is based on the English National Curriculum and is designed to provide the highest academic quality of education. Based on national statistics, most children educated in a British style are a year or more ahead. The National Curriculum is renowned worldwide and allows a child to move seamlessly between another British School whether here in Spain or around the world. All other subjects are taught through themed units of the International Primary Curriculum (IPC).

In the Early Years Foundation Stage, we seek to create a safe, caring and happy environment, where a child believes that they are capable of anything. Our EYFS curriculum is designed to allow each child to discover interests and talents

as well as equip them to become life ­ long learners. The EYFS curriculum is organised into seven areas of learning and development; Personal, Social and Emotional Development, Communication and Language, Mathematical Development, Understanding the World, Physical Development, Expressive Arts and Design and Literacy Development.

Due to the increasing demand, generated from the needs of new families arriving in the local community, the International School Estepona has expanded their infrastructure, with a fabulous brandnew area for the Early Years Foundation Stage 1; children aged two­three years old.

ISE is a truly international school, where parents trust and students flourish.

Wear trousers when out walking to protect your skin.

Image: shutterstock

A truly international school, where parents trust and students flourish.

Hi Euro Weekly LETTERS

I thought your viewers would like to hear my experience with Spain’s bus services. My wife who had a stroke in July and now uses a wheelchair wanted to go to Fuengirola for the day on the bus. Local people said the bus was very good for disabled people, so we set off. The bus pulled up, driver said no and left without us. So I pushed the wheelchair into La Cala. The next bus driver also said no. I asked if I could use the ramp. He said not possible, so two unknown men offered to lift the wheelchair onto the bus. The driver said ok however the same thing happened on the way home. A man came over to me and lifted my wife onto the bus. What I can’t understand stand is why a bus has a disabled logo on the side then you are told you can’t use a wheelchair. Anybody had the same experience as us? My wife and I are both 76 years old.

Regards Jeff & Maureen Milner, Alcantara

Hi Leapy

Unfortunately I am back in the UK for a while due to this ridiculous 90­day rule because my lovely lady has Parkinson’s and thought she would be treated better in the UK. She wouldn’t sign up to being a Spanish resident although we had lived in Spain for circa 13 years and paid all our non­resident taxes and everything we were asked to pay, but I love her so much I agreed. Possibly a mistake, but as they say love is blind. Now I have a gallbladder full of stones, an enlarged prostate which keeps me going to the toilet all night and a hernia that has reappeared after 30 years like a duck’s egg sticking out of my groin. Of course when I went to my doctor’s surgery after paying my National Insurance non­stop since I started work at the age of 15 and on April 6 I will be 75, there wasn’t a chance in hell of it being repaired, so on the 19th I go in to a private hospital here to get it sorted and will leave hopefully ok, but £3,500 lighter. We have also spent a bloody fortune on private health care in Spain so we wouldn’t be a burden on the system but of course it is a repair so not covered. Had it been a new hernia I would have been straight in to San Carlos and it would have been sorted now. I am sure I have bored you beyond belief but actually the whole purpose of this email was for me to see if you could find out who signed off the paperwork to enable that vile scum Glitter to go straight in front of people who have been waiting for months if not years and have a private room and have a very expensive op (at taxpayer’s expense) to have his knees operated on. I myself feel he should have been so far down the waiting list that he would have been long dead before he was called up and hoped he had suffered more pain than those poor children that he abused, it just beggars

belief Leapy. Now I know as you say you get so many people contacting you that you can’t reply and I fully understand that but it would be nice to read in the EWN that at least you have voiced your opinion on this. Keep up the good work and although we are back in the UK for a little while we always check your opinions on line and 99 per cent of the time agree with you entirely.

Joe

Dear Sirs

I have just read with great interest your article on applying for a blue badge. I started the process for applying for a blue badge for my husband in February 2020 and he finally received it in December 2022, which is two months short of three years and nothing actually went wrong. Your article seems to imply that your doctor can declare you as having at least a 33 per cent disability. This is not the case. You have to have an interview at the Centro de Valoracion y Orientacion in Malaga. You have to apply for this interview submitting all of your relevant medical history. After submitting the application we waited for this appointment for over two years.

Then several months after the interview for them to award their decision, then we were able to start the process for applying for the blue badge. Never in all of this procedure were we asked to provide passport photos. I have actually heard that the process is now taking even longer. I cannot help noticing recently that there are many unoccupied disabled parking spaces. I presume this is down to the virtually impossible task of actually obtaining a blue badge.

Kind regards

Valerie Neal, Mijas Costa

Just a thought

Lanzarote’s president has a point. Spain’s tourist image is damaged by an irresponsible minority.

For many decades, excessive drunkenness by certain British tourists has been a problem in Spain. The consequences can range from loud, juvenile groups at the next table in a restaurant to fights, vomiting and vandalism in public areas.

This behaviour can ruin a night out or even a holiday for more mature holidaymakers and is an unacceptable inconvenience for local residents.

Other nationalities don’t necessarily drink less than these Brits; the point is that they generally handle it better ­ possibly because they are in better mental and physical health.

David R Worboys

PETS

Stray animal found

WHAT to do if you find a stray animal in Spain

All pets in Spain by law should have a permanent identification (microchip) in case of loss, change of ownership or death of a pet. In Andalucia, the database that enrols pets is the RAIA (Registro Andaluz Animal Identification), owned by the Andalucian Council of Colleges of Veterinary.

If you find a stray animal, you can contact an authorised veterinarian, call the phone number or e­mail the RAIA, contact the competent service of the town hall (Environment or Health) or the Local Police or Guardia Civil.

Initially you could check if the animal belongs to any of your neighbours or take it to your local vet and they will check to see if it is microchipped. If it is then they will contact the owner. If it is not chipped you could take a look at the Lost Animal pages on social media or put up signs in your local area.

If this does not reunite the animal with its owner, inform the Local Police or the Guardia Civil so that they can proceed with identification and, where appropriate, temporary accommodation in a centre for abandoned and lost animals, until recovery by the owner.

Cat-sitters become playmates

YOU may have had cats yourself, and know cats that demand a playmate. Well Talisker is one such cat. His owners find pet­sitters to care for him at home and then leave for their holidays. What the unsuspecting cat­sitters don’t realise is quite how demanding this intelligent feline can be. Challenging and fun Talisker will always need new pet­sitters.

Our house­sitting and pet­sitting network can help pet owners meet great checked pet­sitters, and secure care for their pets, for free, no matter where they are!

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

Talisker loves company, and always trains his catsitters well.

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

1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com

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

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

4. Post an advert for the

dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose.

How does it work?

HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert saying when you are going on holiday. House­sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter who’ll care for your pets.

Trustpilot Testimonials ­ 4.9 /

5 Excellent

10 out of 10 for housesit match.com

I have had nothing but good and helpful service from the people who run this site, and my experience has been excellent. Tristram Cosgrave ­ Dog and cat owner, Malaga How do you join?

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

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

Should I get a pet?

CHECK out the local Pet Rescue Centres if you are looking to get a pet.

There are lots of things to think about if you want to get a pet in Spain. For a puppy, you might have to factor in the cost of vacci­

Keep dogs cool

ALWAYS make sure you and your dog are prepared for Spain’s impending hot weather.

Dog owners are well aware of how to look after their pets but need to take extra care as the weather starts to hot up. Providing plenty of fresh drinking water, water to play in, shade and a cool spot to lie down, always ensure you avoid the midday heat and even into the afternoon as temperatures start to climb. Early morning and later evening walks are preferable.

Frantic panting, extreme salivation, bright­red membranes, and laboured breathing are clear warning signs your dog is overheated. To keep cool at home, put them on a cool wet towel, cooling mat or place them in the breeze of a fan whilst drinking small amounts of cool water. You can pour cool water over their feet, ears and head.

If out and near a body of fresh water, let your dog take a dip to cool down. If you think your dog is suffering from heatstroke wet their coat or drench a towel in cool, but not really cold, water and drape it over them. This helps in lowering body temperature and is a crucial step in cooling down before getting them to the vets.

nation, spaying and neutering, training and socialisation classes, and new equipment leashes, bowls and toys. Puppies require a lot of stimulation and play, and also frequent naps. However, adult dogs are usually up ­ to ­ date on vaccines and already spayed or neutered.

They can have a grasp on basic commands and may have started some behavioural training. Adult dogs obviously have exercise needs and require mental stimulation. It is important that you can keep up with them.

If you are thinking about getting a pet in Spain why not look at the many varied animal charities and rescue centres rather than purchasing from a pet store or breeder. As well as being less expensive, good shelters and rescue groups will often work with animals in their care to teach them to be social and well­behaved.

For cats, many shelters evaluate cat characteristics, such as temperament, and they can help you select a suitable cat for your household, personality, and lifestyle.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Processionary caterpillars back

RESIDENTS and visitors have warned about the early return of the Pine Processionary Caterpillars this year.

Due to the unusually dry hot weather and the lack of rainfall, residents and visitors are being warned to again be extra careful if they have small children and particularly to take care of their dogs and cats against this year’s influx of the Processionary Caterpillars (Thaumetopoea Pityocampa).

Long­term residents of Spain will be used to the annual warning against Processionary Caterpillars but for those new to Spain, it is of the utmost importance to be especially vigilant to these

early

small caterpillars which if ingested can be fatal to household pets. The caterpillars are typically 34cm in length and are orange and brown in colour.

When the caterpillars drop from their nests in the pine trees their poisonous hairs can penetrate the skin and cause instant irritation. Their bittersweet smell also attracts dogs and cats who may try to eat them, with the hairs getting embedded in their tongues.

It is recommended to be extra careful when walking dogs to avoid areas where there are large numbers of these caterpillars. Vital signs to look out for in pets is vomiting and tongue swelling.

Image by GaevoyB/Shutterstock

WINDOWS

AIR CONDITIONING by Cool and Cosy. The family company that cares. Installation and repairs. Quality machines. Ecosense movement sensors supplied and fitted from 100 Euros. For other energy-saving products visit www.coolandcosy.es. 952 935 513. We are Junta de Andalucia authorised installers as the new law states (real decreto 115/2017). On the Costa del Sol since 1993

QUALITY Air Conditioning Installations. Economical to use, & silent in operation. 26 Years installation history in Spain. EnviroCare. All Areas

Covered. 952 663 141/670 409 759 info@envirocare spain.com www.envirocare spain.com (301178)

ACE OF SHADES – All colours available. Urbanisations catered for, electric and manual operation; also recovery service available, largest selection of colours and designs on the coast. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design

T1(101730)

SUNSHINE AWNINGS/BLINDS

Awnings, Persiana, Shutter & Rejas Specialist. New & Repairs. 25yrs on the coast. 680 323 969 / 952 199 640 (302583)

ACE OF SHADES - Vertical, Venetian, Roman, Roller, Wooden blinds, various colours available, also blackout blinds. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceof shades.design (101730)

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

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

SOLAR BLINDS

SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for large glazed areas to reflect heat / glare and stop furniture fading and still keep the view. SAVE HEAT IN THE WINTER to improve your living environment. ian@solar shadetinting.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176

JIM’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS. Bathrooms/kitchen reforms, repairs, plumbing, carpentry, painting, tiling, maintenance. Give us a call no job too small. 692 207 799 / 645 559 423 (302457)

www.handymanservices.es

Electrician, plumbing, construction, painting. Innovation. ROT deduction for Swedish, Sotogrande to Marbella 648 712 530 (302411)

GENERAL BUILDER , Tiling, plastering, painting, electrician, plumber, carpentry. Reasonable prices. 635 913 885 (References available) (302414)

SWINGLES CASAS SL. For all your building needs. Visit www.swinglescasas.com for more details or call 635 999 765 / 666 960 262 (295953)

PLUMBING & GENERAL BUILDING All your plumbing needs. Bathroom, kitchens, tiling & painting. Benalmadena based, travel no problem. Glen 669 073 773 or Paul 642 098 115 (302310)

METALWORK

NEW REJAS, GATES, Carports & Fencing, repairs & alterations. Work Guaranteed. Reliable. 19yrs on Coast. Steve the Welder. Call/WhatsApp 655 040 648

VERY profitable turn key classic car business for sale due to family reasons; proven turnover; international clientele; mainly online sales; no technical experience needed; training provided by current owner; 150,000€ all in (cars, parts, website, company, contacts, rented warehouse, training, etc...) 699 545 480 (290200)

PAINTINGS for Sale by famous Painters. For more information contact 662 474 089 (290150)

ALH RENT A CAR – SHORT & LONG-TERM RENTALS FROM €15 A DAY. INSURANCE INCLUDED IN OUR PRICES. www.alhrentacar.comTLF: 638 846 909 or reser vasalhrentacar@gmail.com (295923)

MH CARPENTRY PROFESSIONAL CARPENTRY CarPorts, Mobile Home Decking. Concreting and Slabbing. Best Rates, Fully Insured. Tel: 622 647 602 (303113)

CHURCH

BENALMADENA Elim Family Fellowship. Elimfamilyfellow ship.com or call 951 912 525 or 952 446 627. (10011)

CALAHONDA: Encounter Church (Elim), Family church with kids’ activities, Iglesia San Miguel, Sundays 4.30pm, Rev. David Hodgson, 695 115 496 (10012)

THE Ark Christian Church. We meet at The Ark Christian School, Calle Río Darro 2 y Plaza Juncal, 29651, Mijas Costa (the road behind the Mijas Aquapark) on Sundays at 11.00am. Pastor, Andrew Seale Tlf 682 713 491 www.theark spain.com (293850)

CLEANING/MAINTENANCE

ADVANCED Cleaning Services. Professional carpet, upholstery cleaning, 27 years experience, wet/dry clean. Honest, reliable service 678 808 837 / 952 669 701 or email acservs@outlook. com (290189)

UPHOLSTERY including leather cleaned also carpets. 685 524 921 (290189)

REYES PROPERTY SERVICES Est. over 25 years. Rental management. Tailor made for your all property needs. Call Wendy 635 630 370 (303017)

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

DECORATORS

RAINBOW Pinturas . English Painters & decorators. All aspects. Interior/exterior, private residential, commercial & communities. Spraying: door, kitchens & furniture. Light construction.

Call/WhatsApp: Daniel: 628 066 308 www.rainbowpinturas.com (302039)

ATD DECOR. British Painter. 30 Years’ Experience. Punctual. Great Rates. Call for free quote. 602 431 968 Facebook: @ATD DecorMalaga (302412)

DOMESTIC Appliance repairswashing machines, fridges, cookers, ovens, water heaters, gas / electric, professionally repaired. Christian 608 337 497 (296265)

WASHING MACHINES, Ovens, Boilers etc. All work guaranteed by ex Zanussi technician. Reliable rapid service. Joe 609 345 096 (303048)

BLOCKED DRAINS? Leak detection, CCTV survey, root removal, Tel 952 568 414 / 661 910 772 / drainspain.com (294321)

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

MARBLE FLOOR (2.50€/m2) WHY PAY MORE. WE CLEAN, CRYSTALLISE, SEAL THEN POLISH YOUR MARBLE TO HIGH GLOSS, NON-SLIP. PROFESSIONAL GUARANTEED, FAST SERVICE. 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE. ALSO REPAIRS DAMAGES TO MARBLE, CLEAN AND SEAL TERRACOTTA TERRACES, COVERS ALL COSTA DEL SOL.

TEL: 671 244 683 (303059)

MARBLE FLOORS polished high shine non-slip. Fast Service Reliable, family-run business. TERRACOTTA CLEANED and sealed. No job too small. Cleansol 10am –10pm 7 days all areas. 952 930 861 / 607 610 578 Discount code: EWN 1 CLEAN (206437)

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

CARS, Vans, Bikes wanted. Any Reg, Anything Considered Call or WhatsApp 687 049 592 (303115)

HOUSE CLEARANCE SPECIALISTS , FULL OR PART CLEARANCE. ALL FURNITURE WANTED, WE PAY MORE. TEL 634 324 914 OR EMAIL houseclearance man@hotmail.com (301543)

PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

ALHAURIN FURNITURE EMPORIUM Buyers & Sellers of quality furniture. Top prices paid. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071 (302415)

WE BUY vintage antiques, designer clothing & accessories. Good rates paid. Discretion assured. 613 822 572 / +447778 422 305 (302627)

COLLECTIVE CALLING are urgently requesting donations of clothing, homeware & furniture, so if you are having a House Clearance, Please call us for FREE COLLECTION. We sell good quality items, which then supports low-income families and the homeless in the community. These items can be dropped directly to our charity shop Tienda Solidaria: Av. Pablo Ruiz Picasso, 4, San Pedro de Alcantara, alternatively, call us to arrange collection on +34 711 006 961 (295137)

CHIMNEY SWEEP . Clean reliable professional. All types, special price for more than one. Chris 608 337 497 (296265)

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

FILMS

in English

PLAZA MAYOR CINEMA

Malaga

CREED III

SUN: 12:05

JOHN WICK 4

SUN: 13:15

TUE: 19:55

EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE

SUN: 13:30

TUES: 21:10

THE WHALE

SUN: 12:15

COCAINE BEAR

SUN: 12:30

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: HONOR AMONG THIEVES

SUN: 13:20

TUES: 22:15

RED DOG CINEMA

Puerto Banus

65 MON, TUES, SAT AND SUN: 17:30

ANT-MAN AND WASP: QUANTUMANIA

MON, TUES, SAT AND SUN: 15:00

PUSS IN BOOTS: THE LAST WISH SAT AND SUN: 12:30

CREED III

MON, TUES, SAT AND SUN: 15:15

SCREAM VI

MON, TUES, SAT AND SUN: 19:45, 22:00

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: HONOR AMONG THIEVES

MON, TUES, SAT AND SUN: 15:15, 17:20, 19:40, 21:45

SAT AND SUN: 12:00

SHAZAM! FURY OF THE GODS

MON, TUES, SAT AND SUN:17:20

JOHN WICK 4: CHAPTER 4

EVERY DAY: 17:00, 18:40, 21:40

SAT AND SUN: 12:00, 15:00, 19:45, 21:30

COCAINE BEAR

MON, TUES, SAT AND SUN: 15:30, 17:45, 19:50, 22:10

SAT AND SUN: 12:00

MARBLE POLISHING, CRYSTALLISING, LASTING, HIGH SHINE. REGRINDING, RESTORATION OF SALTY, DEAD FLOORS. 27YRS EXPERIENCE. RELIABLE. REFS AVAILABLE. CYRIL. 645 840 199 (302550)

FOR SALE/WANTED

ANTHONY’S ANTIQUES JEWELLERS AND PAWNBROKERS IS NOW BUYING ALL TYPES OF WATCHES AND JEWELLERY IN ANY CONDITION, ALSO, SILVER, ANTIQUES AND THE UNUSUAL. WE BUY, WE PAY MORE, WE PAY CASH. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL ANTHONY ON +34 609 529 633

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

GLASS CURTAINS

GLASS CURTAIN repairs, specialist in replacement of discoloured plastic strips that act as a seal between the glass panels. Call Julian 655 825 931 (301104)

LOCKSMITHS

ENGLISH LOCKSMITHS, SECURITY & SHADE EXPERTS. FREE HOME SECURITY SURVEY. 636 770 865 / 952 660 233 WWW.SECURITYOF SPAIN.COM CONTACT DAREN (303056) T1

HANDYMAN HEATING

HANDYMAN: General Masonry work, painting, wall/roof waterproofing & other jobs. Call Michael 622 755 666 (303058)

BE PROACTIVE: Electric/Gas fires, Wood Burning Stoves. Quality guaranteed. EnviroCare. All areas covered. 952 663 141/670 409 759. info@envirocarespain.com www.envirocarespain.com

ENGLISH LOCKSMITH emergency & appointment, locks changed, patio doors & windows secured. All locks supplied insurance approved. Fast & reliable service. No hidden extras or nasty surprises. 657 466 803 www.a1locksmiths.es (290138)

MASSAGE

RIVIERA DEL SOL . Treat yourself to an Excellent Massage! Irina, Cuban masseuse, fun and spontaneous. Only when a massage is something more than a massage, and becomes a unique experience, with a mixture of smells, sounds, sensations, only then is when you enjoy the perfection of the exclusive massage. Ask for more information without obligation 951 274 723, 650 237 145 (302727)

TANTRIC masseuse in Calahonda. Cristal, expert in the art of seduction and tantric massage. Authentic masseuse who manages to transmit the physical and emotional pleasure with the 5 senses. Sensual tantric massage or body to body to perfection. Make an appointment. 650 237 145 (302727)

FRIENDSHIP FURNITURE

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

MAN 64 not vaccinated, seeks friendship with an unvaccinated woman. Similar age, sincere, reasonable, balanced, humanitarian, kind, good person who likes alternative aspects-spirituality. 619805714 (290196)

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

GARDENING

PROFESSIONAL garden services from Fuengirola to Estepona. All aspects of gardening and full maintenance and landscaping, free quotes, competitive prices. Contact Andrew 600 259 981 Andrew@garden-professionals. com (295350)

I RRIGATION

IRIS-IRRIGATION and landscapes. TRENCHLESS NO DIG Irrigation installation, Cables, Fibre Optic, Electric & Lighting Cables. New Installations & problem-solving. Turf (supply and laying). Garden constructions. Tree surgeon. Clearing. Astro Turf (Free Quotation) 676 747 521 (301097)

VINYL WRAP

VINYL SOLUTIONS WHY REPLACE WHEN YOU CAN RENOVATE? Modern adhesive vinyl coverings in hundreds of styles and designs can renovate a tired kitchen, bathroom, wall panels, bedroom wardrobes, fridge doors. Turn a tired looking wood designed kitchen into a modern solid colour or metallic look without painting or replacing. Work carried out on site with 10 year warranties Contact Ian 644 546 176 for design brochure and samples. (293467)

HOT TUBS AND SPAS

HOT TUBS new used, bought, sold, hired. Also move & repairs. Used good Hot Tubs for sale. 691 973 131 / +44 7836 379122 (302313)

HOUSE CLEARANCES

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

INSURANCE

SAN PEDRO. Sandra. Professional relaxing, tantric massage. Young, slim, work alone, unforgettable moments. Nueva Andalucia. 641 346 278

MATURE elegant lady. Offers tantric and other massage. Personal home visits. 687 387 680 (286295)tp3

PURE RELAXATION in Nueva Andalucia with attractive independent masseuse. Tantric and other special massages in private apartment. For gentlemen and couples, with no rush attention to your needs 656 350 401

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

CASSIE. Mature English lady. Discreet and clean. 667 914 732 (FU 2936)

BUTTERFLY - Massage, is a space designed for people with high sensitivity, with a taste for body to body interaction, who enjoy the sensuality and magical trantric, to feel the warm hands of an attractive masseuse running through your body. Our masseuses have been chosen not only for their physical attractiveness, but also for their sensuality and massage skills. Only by appointment 951 274 723, 650 237 145 (302727)

CALA DE MIJAS. Excellent professional masseuse with exclusive attention for people who want to change their routine and want to relax and live a relaxing experience. If you are looking for discretion and good treatment, here I am. I’m Noa and I hope you make your appointment as soon as possible because I am very requested. 650 237 145 (302727)

MY HANDS can transmit a very important message and make us feel connected. I will create a suitable atmosphere for relaxation and sensuality without noise, candlelight, soft music, nothing should disturb that moment. Before we start, all you have to do is relax, breathe slowly to free your body and mind... I’ll take care of the rest. Irina, qualified masseuse with many years of experience. Book your appointment. 650 237 145 (302727)

ELECTRIC GATE/GARAGE

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

GATE REPAIRS GATES

ELECTRIC GATES /Garage

Doors. Intercoms/access control systems and replacement remotes. New installs and repairs. For all your electric gate and garage door requirements call us on 605 356 469/952 786 178. The Garage Door Co & 2 Way Gates. tgdc@hotmail.co.uk www.2waygates.com (294592)

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 (291234)

INTERPRETER

INTERPRETER: Michael will assist/go with you to any appointment ie Townhall, Doctors etc call 606 809 042 (303058)

IT’S TIME to try something different and very relaxed. Sara, elegant masseuse, I offer massage, tantric, sensitive, prostatic, authentic relaxation that will leave you floating on the cloud. believe me spectacular! Very clean. I give and demand total hygiene! Let yourself go and you will discover the most hidden pleasures. Only by appointment. 650 237 145 (302727)

INSURANCE

RIVIERA DEL SOL . I am Noa a simple and natural girl who hides among her shy appearance the best kept secrets of relaxing, decontracting and stimulating massage. I am a specialist in eliminating your worries, muscular tension thanks to a depurative massage technique that I combine with a sensory capacity out of the ordinary. I massage both men and couples. 650 237 145. by appointment only (302727)

CALAHONDA . I am your ideal masseuse if you want to enjoy a massage, relaxing and sensual and want to try the sensations that this generates. I will use my hands and body with techniques of relaxation and mutual connection. Carla – 650 237 145 (302727)

THE BEST RELAXING MASSAGE CLOSE TO ELVIRIA

Tantric massages. Come and enjoy today with us. Latin masseuses for men. Come and relax. Outcall, too 650 237 145 (302727)

NEAR ELVIRIA. Masseuse, elegant with a high dose of implication. Very special tantric sensory massages. I will make you feel very relaxed with a good massage. 951 274 723, 650 237 145 (302727)

MARBELLA CENTRE - the ideal place for relaxing massage in the city centre. Available 24h and prices from €50. For reservations and information call 620 366 817. (295192)

PROFESSIONAL MALE muscled masseur. Full-body relaxing, deep tissue and therapeutic massage. In/outcalls. WhatsApp me 607 595 906 (301288)

FUENGIROLA - Johanna Brazilian Mature Masseur. Relaxing Massages. Best relax guaranteed. Tel: 617.818.615 (303203)

ASIAN MASSEUR Massage relaxing & therapeutic, to release tension and stress. Fuengirola. Call 634 103 607 (301171)

LOS BOLICHES - Carolina Pretty Masseur, Relaxing Massage, Guaranteed relax - 634.703.111 (303203)

BENALMADENA lovely lady, offering you a very relaxing body massage. Call for an appointment 634 209 427 (290149)

FUENGIROLA. Japanese Shiatsu & Zen Ki relaxing and therapeutic massage. Excellent service guaranteed. Home Visits. WhatsApp for appointment 693 988 340 (290155)

WWW.LAILALYNCH1.COM

Heated pool, Jacuzzi and private bar. Inland private retreat with a full massage service. 662 913 428 (FU 2952)

FUENGIROLA. Amazing full body massage by spectacular blonde lady. 657 697 397 (FU 2776)

ESTEPONA . Susana, Latin Girl sculptural body, trained for deep relaxing massage. 697 705 304 (FU 2786)

LAWYERS

ASIAN wellness massage

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

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

FILIPINO MASSAGE CENTRE

MARBELLA, where hearts of professional massage, open daily. 660 578 171 (MI 561)

FUENGIROLA Paula 30 years old beautiful, soft sensitive massages, deep body relaxation techniques 641 244 707 (FU 2908)

TWO filipina, simpathic excellent unique relaxing massage authentic oriental massage, exclusive. Elviria. 679 126 231 (MI 561)

BOLICHES CELINA independent loving lady, kind, beautiful affectionate only for educated discreet respectable gentleman! Enjoy deep sensitive exciting relaxing massages in private discreet apartment, quiet cosy atmosphere high satisfaction! Excellent calm treatments! Demanding excellent hygiene! Appointments 11am/6pm 622 210 797 (FU 2918)

UKRAINIAN / THAI slim, friendly, beautiful hands massage. Marbella. 604 428 812 (MI 561)

MARBELLA. Karina ts, 29, Brazilian masseuse feminine blonde. Whatsapp 667 846 464 (FU 2950)

BEAUTIFUL Asian lady offer exclusive, sensitive, prostatic, deep, soft massage pleasure to body and mind pleasure, good clean atmosphere, Marbella. Elviria. 603 257 690 (MI 561)

ASIAN touch www.asianmassagemarbella.com combination oriental/ european massage. Elviria. 633 705 558 (MI 561)

OUTCALLS . New elegant masseuse for serious gentleman, good company, unforgettable times. Mijas Costa. 652 440 031 (FU 2942)

ORIENTAL lady, tantric sensory generate body to body, technique, deep, soft massage. Marbella 603 208 080 (MI 561)

THAI Benalmádena Costa. Bodybody full massages. Visits. Whatsapp 689 387 448, 632 092 619 (MI 560)

VANESSA Benalmadena excellent massage services. Relaxing & therapeutic. Home premises. Call me 624 811 098 (303061)

NEW Salome 19 years old beautiful Arab masseuse, massage and relaxation 631 862 272. (FU 2957)

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

NEW Jazmin 19 years old Dominican mulatto, beautiful masseuse, massage and relaxation 631 862 272 (FU 2957)

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

FUENGIROLA Centre. We are 5 beautiful friends, masseuses, discreet. Treat yourself. 631 862 272 (FU 2957)

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

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

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

NEW Fuengirola Emily 19 years old massage and relaxation 603 366 841 (FU 2956)

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

FUENGIROLA. Elegant masseuse, tantric, relaxing and sensitive massage. Carolina. 634 797 230 (fu 2930)

DUQUESA area. Relaxing massages are given to soothe body and mind. Call 610 056 299 (303222)

MARBELLA . Hi! I am Agness, beautiful masseuse, spectacular attributes. Relive stress, personalised massage, unforgettable sensations. 642 268 665 (fu 2931)

NUEVA Andalucia: Valery, Portuguese, mature, blond, sweet unique sensual massage. Independent. 685 221 959 (FU 2955)

ESTEPONA TOWN, Simply, sweet, Asian, variety of massages etc. More service details call/ WhatsApp me 678 315 756 (FU 2960)

VILLA MAGNA Benalmadenawith 8 masseurs & room rental –from 50€ - call 666 294 326 (290197)

ISDABE - SAN PEDRO. LOLA. RELAXING & SPORT MASSAGE. PLEASANT EXPERIENCE. 670 794 029 (303182)

AMAZING relaxing massage by mature lady, In/ outcalls. Fuengirola. 657 697 397 (FU 2959)

MASSAGE and fun !!! Genuine trained exotic male tantric masseur. 602 098 606 (FU 2958)

BENALMADENA. FRIENDLY attractive masseuse, relieve muscle tension. From 50€. 613 106 153 (FU 29540)

FUENGIROLA. Relaxing massage made by alternative gender masseuse. Violeta Chiropractor. 660 867 374 (FU 2953)

MARBELLA Experienced mobile Masseuse. Therapeutic, & Relaxing massage for your body and mind. Call Monik 686 740 661 (290154)

FOR SALE

ROBERTSON CARS...would like to thank all of my past, present & future clients for their continued support over the last 35 years here in Spain. Stay safe and outdrive everyone. If contacting Samantha in the afternoons, please only Whatsapp on 608 658 785 or Email therobertsonclan@gmail.com as I am driving mostly & unable to take your calls.

ROBERTSON CARS SALE

SALE SALE: RANGE ROVER

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)

CAR SERVICES

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

MISCELLANEOUS MOSQUITO SCREENS

ACE OF SHADES - Don’t let the bugs get you! Available in enrollable, slider and pleated. Large choice of colours including wood effect. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design (101730)

MOSQUITO Screens for windows, doors and a high-quality sliding patio door screen. All finishes available. Quick service. All areas covered. Call Julian 655 825 931 (301104)

MOSQUITO screens, sliding, pulldown, pleated, colours, call Mosquito Nick 647 072 861 www.mosquitonick.ws (295855)

MOTORING

SPORT 4X4 DIESEL /AUTOMATIC WAS €18,995 NOW €17,995 2011.Looks right in White, only 130,000 kms (approx 80,000miles) Private Lady Owner, parking sensors, reverse camera, sat nav, ITV till June 2023. turns heads good looks and quality. Samantha. See photos on my web page – robertsoncarsspain.com text or whats app. 608 658 785. email therobert sonclan@gmail.com

ROBERTSON CARS SALE

SALE SALE: AUTOMATIC / CABRIO MERCEDES SLK WAS €11,500 NOW €10,995 2006 Stunning Silver only used as holiday car with 55,000KMS (Approx 35,000miles) 2 Seater Convertible have fun in the sun. New ITV. Just Passed July till 2023 ,Electric Roof folds into boot. Selling Under Book Price. Classy Great Shape Mercedes Cracker of a Cabrio. See photos on my web page – www.robertsoncars -spain,com or text me whatsapp 608 658 785 Email: therobertson clan@gmail.com

ROBERTSON CARS SALE

SALE SALE: Automatic Volkswagen Golf Diesel 2015 tdi 1.6 Bluemotion 5 door, hatchback, grey black with alloy wheels, only 159,000 kms (approx 98,000miles) private lady owner has kept it immaculate. be quick see it now. 13,995€. See photos on my web page –www.robertsoncars-spain,com or text me whatsapp 608 658 785 Email: therobertsonclan@gmail. com

ROBERTSON CARS SALE

MACHINE POLISHING. Professional machine glaze polishing, protection, transform the appearance of cars, 4x4s, Vans, motorhomes, etc, also interiors, motor trade cars prepared for maximum re-sale value! Mobile service, view web. www.auto valeting.eu. Tel/ WhatsApp, 666 926 728. (FU 2951)

MOBILE MECHANIC will come to your home or work. Servicing, repairs, ITVs & diagnostics. Call Mick on 617 553 072 (301482)

ENGLISH bodyshop, fully equipped, Mijas Costa. No Job Too Small. 952 667 074 (302028)

IMPORT/TRANSFER

CARS TRANSFERRED, history checks, Imports and Embargo problems. Change of use and lost papers. Change your car to Spanish plates, simple efficient service. Cars bought and sold. Please call 678808837 or email carsinspain@ live.co.uk

WANTED

WANTED CARS AND VANS, FREE COLLECTION, SAME DAY 685 524 921 (290189)

CARS, VANS BOUGH WITH / WITHOUT PAPERS. CASH WAITING 678 808 837 (290189)

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

WANTED, wanted, wanted!! All cars, all years, all models… from exotic to classic. Spanish, English, Dutch plated. Call us on 951 977 329 or 606 647 597. (302517)

CAMPER VANS , CARAVANS, MOBILE HOMES, BOATS AND ALL PLANT, DIGGERS, DUMPERS, MOTORBIKES, CARS AND COMMERCIALS WANTED. BEST PRICE PAID, CASH TODAY, ANY REGISTRATION WITH OR WITHOUT PAPERS. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 (290189)

CARS, VANS, ANY RESGISTRATION, INSTANT CASH, FINANCE / EMBARGO UK OR SPANISH 685 524 921 (290189)

CARS, VANS UK OR SPANISH BOUGHT FOR CASH. FREE COLLECTION IN SPAIN / UK. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 OR 952 669 701 (290189)

SALE SALE: Automatic Ford B Max 2015 1.6 Petrol ONLY 35,000KMS. Silver in Spotless Condition, sliding side door makes parking easier and high seating position great for old legs, 5 DOOR, Hatchback Dog Friendly, One Private Owner, Ill Health Forces Sale , EVERYTHING YOU WANT BUY NOW 10,995€. To Test Drive Samantha Email ther obertsonclan@gmail.com www.robertsoncars-spain,com or text me whatsapp 608 658 785

GOLF AUTOMATIC 1.6 Turbo Diesel, 2015, 159,000kms 12,995€ ONO. 607 334 610 (303108)

LEXUS 2.5 300 H Executive Navigation 4wd 197 CV Model Metallic Pearl, Imported, Purchased October 2020, 5090kms Hybrid and Petrol. Condition as new. Offers on 38,000€ Neg. Please Call 689 876 751 (303217)

NISSAN Juke Teckna, 2011, 1.6 Petrol, New Tyres, New ITV, 150,000kms. 7,250€. 610 720 735 (303216)

MUSIC

DAVID CHRISTIAN-CLARK

PLAYS POPULAR SPANISH GUITAR FOR YOUR EVENT. OVER 30 YEARS PRO EXPERIENCE BACKED BY A DIPLOMA FROM GUILDHALL LONDON. SPECIALISES IN WEDDINGS.ECLECTIC PLAYLIST TAILORED TO YOUR TASTE. REASONABLE RATES BY NEGOTIATION.COVERS GIB TO NERJA.SEE YOU TUBE. ENQUIRIES davechris tianclark@gmail.com (303110)

NAUTICAL

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

YATCH SKIPPER RETIRED to enhance your boating skills, boat handling, maintenance, navigation, safety. On your own boat, any size of boat. Mike 602 533 508 (303066)

OTHERS

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

PAINTERS/DECORATORS

SOLUCIONES RAPIDAS - We will Paint your apartment in maximum 2 days. 640 350 479 (301298)

PASSPORT RENEWALS

UK & IRISH Passport renewals including photos. Complete Service. Cath’s Cards. 952 885 759. www.cathscards.es (295683)

PAWNBROKERS

minutes from the Poligono) For more information call 952 113 467, available from 10.00am until 2.00pm. (93319)

ANIMEX Foundation offers free will upgrading when leaving something for abandoned animals. Contact animexfounda tion@gmail.com or call 692 166 434 now for this absolutely free service (288287)

ARCH - The Andalucian Rescue Centre for Horses, registered charity 8448, the Centre is open to visitors every Sunday from 9am until 2pm. Working closely with the Spanish authorities, we rescue, rehabilitate and rehome abused and abandoned horses and donkeys. Come and meet our current rescues, learn about our work and how you may be able to help. Run solely by a small team of dedicated volunteers, the Centre is located between Alhaurin el Grande and Coin in Comm. de Viña Borrego behind Venta Miralmonte. For more information and directions see our website www.horserescue spain.org, our Facebook page Centro Andalusi de Rescate de Caballos or tel. 610 845 491 or 656 935 613 (93322)

PEST CONTROL

COCKROACHES, ANTS, insects, fleas, mice, rats, wasps, termite specialists. Fumigations, bars, restaurants, houses, etc. Sanitary department officially registered certificates. Serving the coast since 1985. Only legal English owned pest control company on the coast. If you want the best then phone N.P.S. Paul 676 700 370 (1296213)

KENNELS

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

PET CHARITY

ACE CHARITY ‘El Refugio’ in La

Cala de Mijas is a registered charity. We have on average 275 dogs in our care and we receive no help from the town hall or the Andalucian government. We desperately need foster homes and adoptants for our many dogs, especially the small ones and puppies who do not do well in a big shelter. We are grateful for any help offered, including donations of food and blankets. Visiting times are from 13.00 to 15.00 and you can always turn up or make an appointment by calling Denise on 669 018 736. Our website is www.ace-charity.org where you can view all the dogs in our care. (93320)

ADANA THE ANIMAL SHELTER IN ESTEPONA. We always need volunteers to walk and socialise with our dogs and help with cleaning. We also need good homes for our animals that you can see on www.adana.es. Kennels open every day 10-1.30, Camino de Casares, near Parque de los Pedregales, Estepona. (5

POOLS

WWW.INTERMARBELLA.COM

Costa del Sol Property Long Term Rentals All areas / All budgets / All types. Spain +34 951 708 422 UK +44 208 144 5008. Email in fo@intermarbella.com (303052)

REMOVALS & STORAGE

15 CUBIC metre van returning to the UK 14th April 2023. Space available each way. Tel. 639 928 090 (295249)

MAN AND VAN

PROPERTY

MAN & VAN, 20€ ph. Removals, Rubbish & House Clearances. Paul 634 112 677 (291430)

2 MEN, Van €30 p hour. House Clearances & Storage. 651 081 610 (302401)

moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (294207)

STORAGE, Storage, Storage. Man & Van Services. Call/Whatsapp 690 155 340 (302418)

NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL

SEPE the horse and donkey charity is open to the public at weekends from 10.00 to 5.00. Volunteers are much needed in all departments and are welcome at any time. For our riding for the disabled classes, we are also in need of extra helpers. We are nationally registered by the Spanish Ministry of the Interior (164640) but only with your support can we give the equine a voice. If you can just commit to 2 or 3 euros a month it will really help make a difference. You can find us at Lauro Golf Equestrian Centre, Alqueria, Alhaurin de la Torre. Tel. 608 258 950 info@sepeon line.net www.sepeonline.net

(93321)

SOS ANIMAL REFUGE we have dogs, young and old looking for homes. Some of our dogs have been with us for some time and would love to find a cosy spot to curl up in and a knee on which to rest their heads. If you have room in your heart and home we would love to hear from you. We do not put our dogs to sleep - no matter how old, they are safe with us. For day to day needs and to pay for veterinary care, we much appreciate the support we receive. We desperately need items to sell on our market stall to help raise funds and are happy to come and collect. So, if you are having a clear-out, please contact us on 605 227 155. If you would like to know more about rehoming, please call 653 257 875. Visit our website www. sos-animals.org or please phone Sandy on 952 385 923 or 666 814 056 if you would like to make a donation or help in any way.

(93317)

PLUMBING

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

(294321)

PROPERTY WANTED

THINKING of selling your property or interested in a current valuation? We have clients actively looking for properties from Torremolinos to Calahonda. List with us and let us sell your property. Call Joe 626 864 683 (302705)

WWW.INTERMARBELLA.COM

Costa del Sol Property Sales & Long term rentals wanted. All areas / All budgets / All types. Spain +34 951 708 422. UK +44 208 144 5008. Email info@intermarbella.com

PROPERTY FOR SALE

WWW.INMOANDALUZ.COM. Bargain inland properties for all budgets, fincas, village homes, apartments and villas. Legal building plots. 952 491 609 / 685 514 835

WWW.INTERMARBELLA.COM

Costa del Sol Property for sale. All areas / all budgets / all types. Spain +34 951 708 422. UK +44 208 144 5008 Email info@inter marbella.com (303052)

PROP MAINTENANCE

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

PROPERTY TO LET

LONG TERM RENTALS AVAILABLE and also wanted. Super prices. Apartments, townhouses, villas, fincas, shops, offices, bars, restaurants. Coast & inland. Tlf 679 111 522

WE ARE looking for dedicated professionals who are passionate about telesales and building relationships. Contract, Basic plus commission Please apply at admin@horizoncurrency.com (303107)

SOLAR

SOLAR Hot Water heating: FREE HOT WATER. 26 years installation history in Spain. Envirocare. All areas covered. Quality guaranteed. 952 663 141/ 670 409 759 info@envi rocarespain.com www.envi rocarespain.com (301178)

SOLAR ENERGY

SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for Large Glazed Areas to Reflect Heat / Glare And Stop Furniture Fading And Still Keep The View. Save Heat in The Winter to Improve Your Living Environment. ian@solarshadetinting.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (292919)

SOFT FURNISHINGS

TRANSLATORS

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

UPHOLSTERY

ADVANCED Cleaning Services. Professional carpet and upholstery cleaning, 28 years experience, wet/dry clean. Honest, reliable. 678 808 837 / 952 669 701 acservs@outlook.com (290189)

UPHOLSTERY including leather cleaned also carpets. 685 524 921 (290189)

CARPETS AND SOFAS cleaned. Reliable, fast service. Family run. Cleansol 952 930 861 / 607 610 578. 10am - 10pm 7 days, all areas Discount Code: EWN 1 CLEAN (206437)

WATER HEATERS

PROFESSIONAL LOCAL REMOVALS AT AFFORDABLE RATES. 1/2 DAY FROM €90. FULL DAY FROM €175. WE ALSO PROVIDE A FORTNIGHTLY DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE TO UK AND EUROPE (INCL SCOTLAND). WORLDWIDE SHIPPING TO USA, AUSTRALIA, ETC AND FULL STORAGE FACILITIES. TEL (0034) 952 578 507 OR (0034) 637 892 278 / EMAIL garymoveit@yahoo.co.uk (301295)

JDS EURO TRANSPORT & REMOVALS - Regular trips throughout Europe. Call or WhatsApp Julian 0044 7884 908 929. See Facebook Page for recommendations (301271)

moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (294207) STORAGE

moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (294207)

ROLLER SHUTTERS

ACE OF SHADES - PERSIANA (security shutter) electric and manual, various colours available including wood effect, we also offer a repair service. Make your home more secure! Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design

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

SITUATIONS VACANT

SALES, PRODUCTION & CLEANING Vacancies at Mayan Monkey Mijas Chocolate Factory Full-time positions. Year-round employment. Immediate start More info at: info@mayanmon key.es/ 600 088 542/ 629 466 710 (303103)

CURTAINS, blinds, cushions and much more. Free estimates and home visits. Tel 657 369 343 or rosannacarmella8@gmail.com (301301)

SWIMMING POOLS

POOL MAINTENANCE , & Repairs, including heaters & regrouts. Friendly & reliable service. Malaga to Estepona & inland areas. 678 791 495 / 951 536 389 www.sparklenripple.net (303027)

SWIMMING Pool Heating Pumps, Pool Covers, Rollers, Filtration Systems. 26 years installation history in Spain. Envirocare. All areas covered. Quality Guaranteed. 952 663 141/ 670 409 759 info@envirocarespain. com www.envirocarespain. com (301178)

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

SITUATIONS VACANT

Electric & Gas Water Heaters. Quality Insta llations. 26 years installation history in Spain. EnviroCare. All Areas Covered. 952 663 141/670 409 759 info@envirocarespain. com www.envirocarespain. com (301178)

WINDOW TINTING

MOBILE SERVICE. ITV Legal. Solar Reflective tint for glass curtains, balconies, yachts. Stop fading, heat & glare. 958 496 571644 546 176 ian@solarshadetint ing.com (292919)

WINDOW CLEANING

TRADITIONAL WINDOW CLEANER Give your windows and doors that professional finish at affordable prices. Call Chris 604 871 121/ 952 561 607 (302562)

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

Honda CR-V - under the radar!

ROAD TEST

byMarkSlack

THERE are some cars that operate under the radar, you can forget they’re out there and this is arguably the case with Honda’s CR­V. It isn’t exciting, it’s not head turning and it’s certainly not going to set your motoring senses aflame. What it does though is provide ultra ­ reliable, comfort able and well equipped family transport. The build quality is superb, in fact it puts some premium models to shame, and even the lead ­ in model comes extremely well equipped.

You get leather upholstery, heated front seats windscreen wiper de­icer, auto wipers, auto LED lights, powered, heated, reverse tilting, folding door mirrors, parking sensors front and rear, cornering lights, auto high beam headlights, auto

dimming rear view mirror, adaptive cruise control, dual zone climate control, navigation with Car Play and Android Auto and a plethora of safety kit that’s not overly intrusive like so many modern cars.

The Honda comes with a 2.0­litre, four­cylinder petrol unit that’s mated to a twin

How would you Like

to join a Real Car Tour to Portugal?

THE Classic & Sportscar

Club of Andalu­

cia are putting on a special five­day

Tour d’Algarve starting on Monday April 24 and finishing on Friday April 28.

The start will be from the Marbella area where breakfast is supplied, and will finish at a spectacular restaurant near Ronda.

The event features two nights in a five­star hotel with its own private beach on the Algarve in Portugal. There will be a Gala dinner in Jerez on the first night,

and a dinner and party on the last night near Sevilla.

Dinners on all but one night are included with all wines, beers etc.

The route takes in spectacular scenery, natural parques and much more, a delight for driver and passengers alike!

Commemorative polo shirts are supplied along with a professional roadbook for easy navigation.

Entries are limited but are €1,250 for two people sharing and is open to nonmembers.

Contact Ian Giles at csccandalucia@gmail.com or ian@iangiles.com

electric motor hybrid system that recharges on the move. The system automatically uses the most efficient drive whether electric, hybrid or engine. It’s a perfect compromise for those who see having to plug­ in your hybrid or electric car as a bit of a faff. Inside it’s remarkably spacious and there’s

plenty of room for the family to stretch out, not to mention stow all their luggage.

The range starts from €41,558/£36,580 and there are three trim levels with two and four­ wheel ­ drive and just one 2.0­litre engine. As with most electric and hybrid vehicles the trans ­

mission system is automatic, however the Honda uses a single fixed­gear ratio creating a direct connection between moving components. Otherwise known as e­CVT. While very smooth under hard acceleration ­ the 2WD version reaches 62 mph in 8.6 seconds, so impressive for a low powered large carit is noisy. This is in direct contrast to lower speed city driving and cruising when the CR­V is impressively quiet and refined. The transmission and drive modesEV, Econ and Sport ­ are all

switch operated rather than by levers and make for a compact and easy to use driving environment.

On the road it’s a genuinely nice drive and surprisingly nimble, the ergonomics are first class with a touch screen and instruments of excellent clarity.

It may be discreet and sensible, as opposed to so many models that are overtly bold and­in­your­face, but that’s the secret of its success. It’s a touch of class and class doesn’t have to announce its presence.

Facts at a Glance

• Model: Honda CR-V SR 4WD

• Engine: 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol with self-charging hybrid system

• Gears: e-CVT automatic

• Price: €42,695/£37,580

• Performance: 0-100 kmh (62 mph) 9 seconds/Maximum Speed 180 kph (112 mph)

• Economy: 7.0 l/100km/39.8 mpg

• Emissions: 161 g/km

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

Month of momentum

MARKING another positive month of momentum this year, the latest days to sell data from Auto Trader reveals used cars in the UK took a record average of just 23 days to leave franchise forecourts in February.

MOT failures

LAMPS, reflectors and indicators continue to be the most frequent reasons for vehicles to fail their MOTs in the UK, but it’s problems with brakes and tyres that are more likely to lead to the most serious failures, according to DVSA data analysed by the RAC.

Failures for non ­ working headlights, indicators and reflectors accounted for just over a quarter (25.5 per cent) of all MOT failures in the 12 months to March 2022, while faulty or broken suspensions represented just under a fifth (19.4 per cent) of all failures.

Problems with brakes (16.4 per cent)

and tyres (12 per cent) were the third and fourth biggest reasons for an MOT failure, with bad visibility ­ likely cracks on windscreens ­ rounding up the top five, representing just 8.7 per cent of all MOT failures.

While a third of all initial MOT tests of cars, vans and small passenger vehicles the equivalent to 7.3m vehicles resulted in a fail and mean drivers need to fork out for remedial repair work, nearly one ­ in ­ 10 tests, 8 per cent, equivalent to 2.4m vehicles worryingly result in a fail where at least one dangerous defect had been found.

This is five days faster than the same period last year (28 days), and six days faster than pre­pandemic February 2019 (29 days).

Used cars have only sold that quickly on two other occasions, in June 2021 and September 2020, both of which followed the release from heavy Covid restrictions.

Whilst the broader retail market, including independent retailers, saw a slightly longer average, at 25 days, it still marks the second fastest month on record.

It’s also one day faster than the same period last year (26 days) and five days faster than February 2019 (30 days).

Highlighting the market’s positive trajectory, it’s also 15 days faster than January 2023 (40).

HONDA CR-V: A touch of class and class doesn’t have to announce its presence.

BRAKES AND TYRES: Were the third and fourth biggest reasons for an MOT failure.

Image: Gorodenkoff Shutterstock.com

The Classic & Sportscar Club of Andalucia, March Tour

were at it again when they gathered at Los Arqueros Golf Club to start their March car run. Over 60 people turned out to enjoy the day and a marvellous mix of motor cars was the result! Porsche, Ferrari, Mercedes, Bentley, MG, Hurtan, BMW and Alfa Romeo, among others, were all represented. The stunning 1955 V8 Chevy Pick ­ up truck of Peter and Elise Kukk was also much admired by all.

A breakfast of ubiquitous bacon sarnies was enjoyed and just before 11.00am Ian Giles delivered a short briefing, mainly explaining coffee and Cava stops and where to park at the finish!

Former rally driver Tony Worswick only just made the

start as his very pretty Fer rari F430 Spyder had only just arrived off the transporter from the UK at 8.00am that morning! Yottie (Lady) Dulver ton brought her lovely 1983 Porsche 911 that she has owned from new, the car still a delight to drive. Both the Ferrari and Ivan Johnston’s Porsche Turbo S are yellow and looked stunning in the warm sunshine and blue skies, a treat to see! Single lady Cath Furlong has a rapid Fiat Abarth

the Sierra Bermejas, and climbing up to the picturesque villages of Casares and then Gaucin which produced some spectacular scenery.

A coffee stop at Venta Solera, at Puerto del Espino, was much enjoyed and all crews made it here without problems including three new

members, one in a very rapid Abarth Martini Fiat, another in a gorgeous Mercedes and the last of them in a gleaming yellow Triumph TR6.

The stunning Alfa Romeo of Tarik Wildman was ‘running in’ a newly built engine so a quick under ­ bonnet check revealed all was well. No mechanical problems were reported so after coffee, beers and some fabulous home ­ made venison sausages the crews set off over the top of Serrania de Ronda, past Atajate.

This beautiful road is both fast and enjoyable for driver

and co ­ driver alike and this was no exception! At Ronda the route turned south to head for San Pedro and enjoy the long descent down the fast A ­ 397. Just down the hill and in to a refreshment break provided by organisers Richard and Nicky Masters broke up the decent nicely!

Once in San Pedro, crews headed for the Restaurante Nuevo Reino where parking on the beach by the restaurante was arranged. A first ­ class lunch was enjoyed by well over 60 happy people all with stories to tell of the day.

The next car run is on Saturday, April 8 with a lunch at La Sierra on Tuesday April 4. Contact csccandalucia@gmail.com for more information.

Over 60 people turned out to enjoy the day.

PFC Malaga clinch the league title

JEREMY PFC MALAGA WOMEN’S FOOTBALL CLUB

IDARIA BAUTISTA scored two goals and Anna Raventos added another as No. 1 seed PFC Malaga won the league, and advance to the quarter finals of the 2022 RFAF provincial playoffs with a 3­1 victory over No. 7 seed UD Santa Rosalia on Saturday at Santa Rosalía Maqueda Municipal Field

Sunday March 26 wasn’t just about one game. It marked the conclusion of the 22 match regular ­ season, It was about a season of growth for PFC Malaga (19­1­1), a team that evolved into a women’s football contender every time it stepped on the field and, as it became the hunted, understood what it meant

to rise to the moment.

In the aftermath of the 3­1 win over Santa Rosalia that clinched the second Señior Women’s Andaluza (Malaga), Group 1 league title, along with the No. 1 seed in the RFAF Malaga Provincial Playoffs.

The team was not even operating at full strength, with Shakira Fuentes (18 goals) and Colombian International Luisa Vertel both away from the team for the second consecutive match. But, if a weakened Malaga starting XI was a more attractive prospect than a fullstrength one, it did not look like it.

Malaga’s attack started fast with Idaria Bautista scoring in the 12’ to put the visitors up 1 ­ 0. Anna Raventos provided an insurance goal three minutes later, but in min 60’ Santa Rosalia’s Rocio Nadales found the back of

arrested

ON Friday, March 24, Elland Road stadium, the home of English Premier League side Leeds United was closed down. The action was believed to be the result of a reported ‘security threat’ made on social media.

In a statement posted on Twitter, the Premier League club wrote: “Leeds United’s offices, ticket office, Foundation offices and club shop at Elland Road will be closed until further notice on the advice of the police. We apologise for any inconvenience and we will inform the public when normal service resumes”.

“Police were called to attend the stadium following reports of a security threat to the premises. Investigations were ongoing to establish the credibility of that threat. The report was received at 9.49pm on Friday,” a spokeswoman for West Yorkshire Police told a news source.

However, Leeds United announced on Sunday March 26 that the stadium was

once again open. A statement posted on the club’s Twitter profile read: “West Yorkshire Police have advised Leeds United that Elland Road can reopen, effective immediately. We apologise for any inconvenience and we thank the public for their support”.

A 20­year­old man was reportedly arrested in connection with a ‘security threat’ that was made, believed to have been through a social media post.

In a statement posted on

the net, and put some life back into the home team.

The comeback effort for Santa Rosalia, however, was short ­ lived. In the 78rd minute Bautista scored again putting them up 3­1.

The home team contin ­

ued to push for another goal, but they just could not find a way through.

The party was epic, deserved, and pure joy. And everything Malaga have done all season ­ they’ve been the most physical team, they’ve been the

most talented team, they’ve been the bestcoached team.

PFC Malaga is a team built to win it all and is now just three victories away from a title.

PFC Malaga will open the post season by visiting

No. 4 seed Group 2 Atletico Marbella Paraiso (6 ­ 33) in the first leg of the quarter finals on Sunday, April 2 ­ time and field to be determined.

In the ultimate team sport where time does not stop to regroup and restrategise, expect PFC Malaga to hit overdrive on the inspiration part, because 100 per cent will only hit par Sunday.

The winner will advance to the semi ­ finals and be one step closer to being crowned Champions of Malaga Province and a ticket to the RFAF playoffs for promotion to the fourth division of women’s football in Spain aka RFEF’s Primera Nacional For these players, there’s no doubt they’re ready and excited to go all out for the challenge ­ and the chance to shock the world as a championship caliber team in its inaugural season.

Spain kick off Euro 2024

A 3­0 WIN over Norway leaves Spain level with Scotland on top of Group A in their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.

Spain came through their opening match of Euro 2024 qualifying against Norway with an emphatic scoreline on Saturday, March 25. This was thanks to two late goals from Joselu, the former Newcastle United and Stoke City striker. Making his debut for the national team, he could not have wished for a better start.

Twitter, the Premier League club wrote: “Leeds United’s offices, ticket office, Foundation offices and club shop at Elland Road will be closed

until further notice on the advice of the police. We apologise for any inconvenience and we will inform the public when normal service resumes”.

“Police were called to attend at Elland Road football stadium following reports of a security threat to the premises. Investigations are currently ongoing to establish the credibility of that threat. The report was received at 9.49pm last night”, said a spokeswoman for West Yorkshire Police.

Luis de la Fuente kicked off his era as the new manager of Spain at Malaga’s La Rosaleda stadium, having replaced Luis Enrique after the Qatar World Cup. On reflection, it now seemed a smart move to hand Joselu his first start in a red shirt.

RB Leipzig star Dani Olmo opened the scoring for the home side after 13 minutes. He latched onto a cut­back from Alejandro Balde and deflected the ball just enough to beat Nyland in the Norwegian goal. Although La Roja dominated for large portions of the game, they could not find that second goal as the clock ticked down.

Just two days short of his 33rd birthday, after entering the fray as a substitute, Joselu scored twice with his first two touches of the ball. In the 84th minute, he met a cross from Fabian Ruiz and headed a perfect finish into the net for 2­0. Just one minute later, he powered home a cross from Oyarzabal with his left boot, sealing the three points for Spain.

PFC MALAGA: A team built to win it all and are now just three victories away from a title.

ELLAND ROAD: Was closed down to a security threat made on social media.

One

after ‘security threat’ at Leeds

50.5% of gym goers are women.

Walking football and splendid charity work

EWN Over 60s League

Malaga 1 v 3 Walking

Dead

Last Thursday evening, Malaga hosted the Walking Dead, and indeed, it was the visitors who began on the front foot and, with some impressive passing and moving, were soon ahead.

Malaga fought back and equalised through a running offences penalty. However, the Walking Dead’s tight marking and defending restricted the home team to only a few chances and the former’s ability to open up the Malaga defence brought them two further goals to finish deserved 1­3 winners.

Referees……

…… a small group of people without whom our sport would cease, that strange breed of individual, the walk­

ing football referee. As promised, our first referee profile:

Name: David Coverdale, EWN League Referees’ Coordinator

Age: 60

Originally from: Suffolk, England

Hair: Ageing rocker­ish

Eyes: Two pairs for allround vision!

Favourite Food: Burritos

Favourite Band: Scorpions

Favourite UK Pro Club: Crystal Palace

Likes: Live music, sport, walking footballers

Dislikes: Armchair referees, BBQ flavoured anything, cockroaches

Qualifications: FA Referee

Clean sweep for Cambridge

Bury and District League Cup

Final

Proudest Moment: Referee of the Year 2002

Stupidest Thing I Have Ever Done: Took too many travel sickness pills and spent most of my honeymoon with severe stomach pains!

Goal: To encourage people of all ages to train to become walking football referees.

Thanks, Dave, for the great job you do for us! Watch out for future profiles!

And finally……

The Walking Dead would like to thank all those who contributed in any way to their fantastic total of €5,337 collected at their last week­

CAMBRIDGE were victorious on Sunday after noon, March 26, in both the Men’s and Women’s Gemini Boat Race 2023 against Oxford on the Thames at Putney in London, as announced on the Twitter Boat Race profile.

In this 168th edition of the Men’s event, Tassilo von Mueller won the coin toss and chose the Surrey station for Oxford. That left Jasper Parish with the Middlesex station.

Cambridge cox Jasper Parish took a gamble ­ that ultimately paid off ­ in steering his team closer to the river bank to search for easier passage through the waters of the Thames in Fulham. This led to his rowers gaining a lead of around half a boat’s length. The Goldie boat subsequently crossed the line to take victory over Isis by 1.3 lengths, for the fourth time in five years.

One hour earlier, in the 77th edition of the Women’s Boat Race, Oxford took the Middlesex station, with Cambridge starting from the Surrey station. Cambridge

EWN Walking Football Over 60s League Table.

David Coverdale EWN

Walking Football League Referee Coordinator.

Annual boat race.