Costa del Sol 25 – 31 May 2023 Issue 1977

JUNE PRIDE

TORREMOLINOS is gearing up for an unforgettable Pride celebration set to take place from Thursday, June 1 until Sunday, June 4, packed with empowering and entertaining activities.

The event will feature free concerts at the Pablo Ruiz Picasso Cultural Centre, headlined by María Peláe, Ojete Calor, and Nancys Rubias, along with other talented performers including Marta Sango, Natalia Lacunza, Ricky Merino, and Rebeka Brown.

The mayor of Torremolinos Margarita del Cid expressed her excitement, stating that the diverse programme aims to engage people of all ages and make this Pride a historic

Organisers announce this year’s Pride in Torremolinos.

moment for the town which is known for its values of acceptance.

Highlights include the raising of the LGBTQ+ flag and a speech by designer Lorenzo Caprile on Thursday, June 1, followed by a lively parade on Saturday, June 3.

Scoop up your poop!

IN an effort to raise awareness among residents regarding the responsibility of picking up their pets’ droppings from public roads, the Fuengirola Town Council launched a new campaign on Tuesday May 16.

Tee-rific triumph

Betty Henderson

THE Andalucian Nomads Golf Society Spain orchestrated a remarkable event on Tuesday, May 9 at Mijas Golf, uniting 70 participants in a golf tournament dedicated to honouring the memory of Craig Thomson.

This incredible initiative has resulted in a generous donation of €2,090, split equally between Age Concern Fuengirola, Mijas and Benalmadena and Adimi.

Roger Wedge, the event organiser, expressed his gratitude during the donation ceremony at Bar Marie, stating,

“We chose May 9 because it would have been Craig’s birthday on the 10th. Around 70 players joined us, and together, we raised over €2,000. It’s truly fantastic.”

Craig Thomson’s family expressed their pride in commemorating the late owner of Bar Marie through this charitable event.

Marie Ewen, his wife, extended her gratitude, saying, “I simply want to thank everyone who participated in Craig’s memorial day. It has only been six months since his passing, but the attendance of friends, family, and

golfers was incredible. I am grateful to The Nomads for making this day possible.”

The Nomads were back on the green on Tuesday, May 23, with a fantastic turnout despite the rainy conditions.

Javier Hidalgo, councillor for Cleaning, said that over 200 posters are currently being installed and distributed in areas where frequent violations of this nature occur.

These posters serve as reminders for dog owners to fulfil their obligations to scoop their poop or risk penalties ranging from €301 to €1,500.

“Regardless of how dili­

BENALMADENA athlete Rubén Heemskerk Herrero has added another impressive achievement to his ultratrail career. As a member of the Andalucian men’s ultratrail team, he helped secure the second place position in the team category at the Spanish Ultra Trail Championship held in Pauls, Tarragona on Friday, May 19.

gently our services clean and sweep the streets every day, without the collective effort, these efforts will not endure,” said Hidalgo.

The posters feature an ex­

plicit design, incorporating a contemporary image ­ an icon synonymous with a popular WhatsApp emoji. Hidalgo also stressed the importance of pet owners carrying a bottle of water mixed with vinegar to clean and sterilise unscoopable faeces.

He sees the effort to keep the streets clean and bacteria­free as a collective effort in which the council, the residents and visitors to Fuengirola should be all engaged.

“Our aim is to maintain our position as one of the cleanest towns nationwide, and this is an objective that all of us must strive to achieve,” concluded Hidalgo.

Benalmadena’s trailblazer

The Andalucian women’s team also emerged as champions in their category, while the men’s team secured second place, with outstanding teamwork on display from both squads. With challenging terrain and scorching temperatures,

the strategy involved taking calculated risks to advance in the rankings.

“The race covered a distance of 75 kilometres, with over 10,000 metres of climbing in total, passing through the Los Puertos national park,” said Rubén.

New posters installed.

MIJAS GOLF: Golfers pose on the green ahead of the memorial cup.

Photo credit: Andalucian Nomads Golf Society

Tabletop sale

MIJAS’ monthly charity table top sale takes place in La Cala de Mijas, in the square opposite the town hall, every final Wednesday and Sunday of the month. From 11am to 2pm, local charity shops showcase their stock for great causes.

Celiac posters

FUENGIROLA Council has launched a campaign to raise awareness after World Celiac Day which took place last week. The town’s buses and several buildings are displaying informative posters about Fuengirola’s glutenfree network which offers safe dietary options in local restaurants.

Planting talent

THE final session in a gardening workshop series offered by Soroptimist International Costa del Sol is set to take place on Saturday, June 10. In the classes, participants learn skills for optimal plant growing in Mijas. Email: soroptimist.fsd@gmail.com.

Driving around

AGE CARE Organisation is seeking volunteer drivers to help older people in the Mijas, Fuengirola and Benalmadena area with essential journeys. Volunteers can give their time whenever they want and can be reimbursed at a rate of 50 cents per one kilometre.

Wheel deal

AUTHORITIES in Marbella opened a brand new parking facility on Calle Doha on Monday, May 22. The underground car park has space for 160 vehicles and as an introductory offer, motorists can park for free until Saturday, July 15.

Summer safety

FIREFIGHTERS in Benalmadena have been preparing for summer fire prevention, stripping back dense vegetation in high­risk areas like Calle de Armonía, Mayo, and Camino del Amocafre.

THE Norwegian community in Benalmadena celebrated their heritage on Norway Day with a community event on Wednesday, May 17.

The mayor, Víctor Navas, jumped right into the excitement alongside the Norwegian community who celebrated their National Day, a momentous event marking the signing of their Constitution back in 1814. The festivities kicked off with a delightful mass at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, followed by a lively parade that weaved its way through Arroyo de la Miel. The Benalmadena Municipal Band serenaded the crowd, adding to the atmosphere.

“Norwegian National Day has become a popular tradition here in Benalmadena,” said the mayor. “Our town is not only home to prominent

Norway Day

Last tour

MIJAS is preparing to host the final event in a cultural series run by Mijas Secrets for the first six months of this year.

Norwegian businesses that contribute to our economy, but we’re also proud hosts of the Norwegian School of the

Costa del Sol. We have a flourishing Norwegian community, with more than 400 Norwegian residents. Those residents

are a vibrant and essential part of our town, where more than 140 nationalities live together,” Navas added.

Foul play God save the King

THE Hispano Britanica Foundation organised a celebration of the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and HM Queen Camilla on Saturday May 20.

They exist to promote relations between Spaniards and British through a closer relationship between the people of the two countries, which is why this event took place with a few of the main charities attending this event which took place at the Uppery Club in Malaga City. Some of the money raised will be donated to the British Benevolent Fund

(BBF), a charity working on behalf of British subjects that are suffering extreme financial issues and have nowhere else to turn to and another beneficiary will be Cudeca, the Benalmadena cancer hospice that take in people who are receiving end of life respite.

The many guests enjoyed an excellent meal, music from the TAPAS Choir and a video showing highlights of the actual Coronation as well as a message from HE Hugh Elliott, His Majesty’s Ambassador to Spain.

HOW the mighty have fallen as Malaga FC, one time flying high in the first rank of La Liga, were officially demoted to the third tier of Spanish football on May 21. It wasn’t even a close shave as they were effectively eight points (on goal difference) away from safety and whilst the previous season they just missed promotion back into the top tier, this season has been disastrous.

Putting with purpose

THE Lions Club of Marbella is about to hit the greens in a grand way, hosting a sensational charity golf tournament that will raise money for a variety of local causes. The tournament is set to take place at the Atalaya Old Course on Saturday, May 27 with a shotgun start at 9am, kicking off the individual stableford event. Golfers will also be swinging into action for a great cause.

The tournament will support two remarkable charities: Avoi, which supports children in Malaga hospitals, and the Fundación Caixa. Following the tournament, a gala dinner and prize­giv­

ing ceremony will be held at the clubhouse at 7.30pm. The tournament winners’ announcement will be followed by lively musical entertainment.

Tickets for the golf tournament and dinner are priced at €140, while tickets for the dinner only cost €70. Tickets are available from Uwe Hauke on (+49) 1729 854984. Atalaya Golf Club members can also register directly through the club: 699 958 505.

The Lions Club Marbella Club is mainly composed of German­speaking members, along with several other international residents.

Just 10 years ago under the management of Manuel Pellegrini, the team made it to the quarter finals of the Champions League, but after he jumped ship for better things at Manchester City they have been on a slippery slope. An injection of cash from the club’s Qatari owners has not been forthcoming, so they are back in the third tier for the first time since 1998.

On Tuesday, June 6, the organisation will host a history walk entitled ‘Today and Yesterday’. Guests are invited to step back in time and be captivated by the town’s beauty and rich history with a focus on the last century. Visitors will be walked through the transformation of the town from a humble agricultural village to its emergence as a popular tourist destination with a vibrant international community. A knowledgeable tour guide will lead guests around the town’s hidden cobblestoned streets, uncovering a fascinating tapestry of history. The tour costs €15 per visitor and can be booked by emailing: mi jassecrets@gmail.com.

The event follows several cultural activities which have been organised monthly this year.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Benalmadena

NATIONAL DAY: Benalmadena’s Norwegian community came out in force.

THE Gibraltar Health Authority’s Head Orthoptist, Michelle Brown, recently travelled to a school in Guatemala on a charity mission with a team of professionals working at Moorfields Eye Hospital.

Their aim was to test almost 400 children who have never had an eye test for economic reasons.

The team, made up of three orthoptists, two optometrists and one ophthalmologist are all experts in paediatric eye care.

Together they managed to screen 374 children in total, of which 102 were prescribed glasses which are now being prepared in the UK, and two pairs of glasses will be provided to each child who needs them.

Michelle Brown, said: “We were welcomed with open arms and it really was such a rewarding experience to see the look on the children’s faces when we put up lenses to

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

Future vision

Swinging into summer

Betty Henderson

THE rooftop terrace at Fuengirola Town Hall will once again come alive with the soulful melodies of jazz as the town’s highly anticipated ‘Summer Nights of Jazz’ concert series returns this June.

followed by the Juanma Romero Jazz Quartet on Thursday, June 8, the Fanny Jazz Band on Thursday, June 15, and the Four Woman Quartet on Thursday, June 22.

Dragons on display

help them see clearer.

“They were so happy with so little; it was humbling and a great reminder of how lucky we are in Gibraltar to have healthcare and support.”

The announcement was made on Monday, May 22 by Rodrigo Romero, the councillor for Culture, who also revealed the impressive lineup of performers.

Kicking off the series on Thursday, June 1 will be the Ana Cisneros Trio, known for their unique fusion of jazz and Brazilian music. They will be

The series will continue with performances by Milton Rodríguez Quartet on Thursday, June 29 and Dúo Fusión on Thursday, July 6. To cap off the series, the Wilkinson­GómezAlazubhev Trio will perform at the Plaza de España on Thursday, July 20, from 9:30pm.

Performances begin at 9pm, and free tickets can be collected at the Casa de la Cultura one week before each concert.

Community spirit

IN a heartwarming display of community support, the Campo de Gibraltar Craftsmen Association, also known as the San José Association has once again stepped up with generous donations to local organisations. The mayor of Manilva Mario Jiménez, along with the local councillor for Business, Francisco Becerra, and the councillor for Sports, Manolo Gil, received the group in a reception alongside the association’s president, Antonio Rodríguez.

During the reception, representatives from local groups including Los Kruos Walking Club, the local cycling club, Manilva FS, and the Luisana Association received muchneeded funds from the San José Association. These grants will fuel the groups’ many community­orientated activities. The mayor thanked the group, highlighting the profound impact the flea market is having on the economy.

KOMODO dragon hatchlings at Bioparc Fuengirola are set to make their debut in outdoor terrariums, in response to a massive popular demand.

On Saturday, June 10 and Sunday, June 11, a select few of these tiny dragons will be housed in a temporary outdoor enclosure, allowing visitors to see the unique creatures up­close.

This year, Bioparc Fuengirola celebrated a significant milestone in their conservation efforts with the successful hatching of five Komodo dragon babies. This marked the first successful breeding of the species within the park. Visitors will be able to observe these young dragons in the park’s Indo­Pacific area, alongside the male Komodo dragon, Reo. Staff will also offer insights into the breeding, behaviour, and conservation work dedicated to the species.

Some of the children who were helped.

Credit: Gibraltar Government

“Laughter is the best medicine.”

Laughter relaxes the whole body, relieving tension and stress. This phrase originates from the Bible - Proverbs, Chapter 17, verse 22.

21 nations speak Spanish on a daily basis.

MARBELLA Netball Club’s event of the year is set to return on Saturday, June 3.

This highly anticipated tournament is set to feature nine teams and more than 100 talented women, promising an action­packed day of netball fun.

The tournament will get underway from 9.30am on the day at Laude International School in San Pedro. Nine teams from across the country and Gibraltar will hit the court: Marbella Netball Club, Costanets, Fetcham (A & B), Manilva,

Marbella Netball Club is an inclusive community.

Sad loss

THE management and staff join with the members of the Costa Press Club in sending our condolences to the family of press club President Jesper Sander Pedersen who passed away following a short stay in hospital in Malaga.

Jesper was president of the club for much of its 21 years. His enthusiasm for a liberal media and the integration of foreign nationalities into Costa del Sol life abounded.

He dedicated much of his personal and professional time tirelessly making people feel welcome, always with a smile and genuine interest.

Our thoughts go out to his wife Rocío, their son Jakob and Jesper’s family and friends at this difficult time.

A mass for Jesper was held at the Torremolinos cemetery on Tuesday May 23.

Advantage to Estepona

throughout the entire week.

Madrid,

BFG

Gibraltar, AKS Gibraltar and Alhaurin de la Torre.

Spectators are also welcome to get a slice of the action by watching the matches and supporting players. The day of competition will conclude with an evening social for more than 45 people.

The annual tournament serves as a showcase of netball skills and a chance for clubs from Spain and other countries to come together in friendly competition and socialise. With support from Fluent Finance Abroad, this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever.

For more information about Marbella Netball Club, including how to join, train, or get involved, contact them at marbellanet ballclub@gmail.com, Facebook (Marbella Netball Club) or Instagram (netballmarbella).

TENNIS enthusiasts are in for a treat as the highly anticipated inaugural edition of the international ITF Women’s Tennis Tournament, The Flag Costa del Sol Women’s Open, arrives at Estepona’s prestigious Bel­Air Tennis & Padel Club.

The tournament, a W15 category event, began on Monday, May 22 and lasts until Sunday, May 28 at the venue’s outdoor hard courts. Entry to the venue is free for spectators

The Estepona Town Council proudly announced their involvement during an official event launch on Wednesday, May 17. With a prize pool of nearly €14,000, the W15 tournament will attract top talent from around the globe.

The Club President Sergio Gomez ­ Barrio expressed his enthusiasm, declaring this to be the most significant tournament in the

Game on Picture perfect

club’s history. “We organise many events, but this will be the most important one ever,” he proclaimed.

The main draw features 32 players, along with an additional 48 tennis players who participated in the qualifying rounds. Six pairs of players are also competing in a doubles draw.

Talent to look out for includes Estonian player Elisabeth Jürna, Argentinian Solana Sierra, and local Victoria Gómez O’Hayon.

MALAGA came alive with Italian culture as the city played host to the sixth edition of the Italian Film Festival, which lasted for a week until Sunday, May 21.

Organised by the Dante Alighieri Society

Italian culture society, the mesmerising event attracted film enthusiasts who eagerly immersed themselves in a lineup of captivating films and engaging discussions. The festival saw more than 1,000 attendees and 500 tickets sold, making it a major success.

The festival’s highlights included the creation of a stunning mural by skilled Italian artist Alice Pasquini in Malaga’s vibrant Soho area. Viewed by more than 200 students, Pasquini’s art conveyed a powerful message of hope and equality, leaving a mark on the city’s urban landscape.

Giovanni Caprara, President of the Dante Alighieri Society, thanked all who made the event a success and promised an even more amazing edition in 2024.

Star-studded makeover

THE Local Government Board in Marbella has given the green light for the renovation and expansion of Hotel Guadalmina in San Pedro Alcantara.

With an investment of €55 million, the hotel will be elevated from a four­star to a five­star grand luxury resort, all while creating 250 job opportunities.

Announcing the news on Tuesday, May 23, Marbella mayor Ángeles Muñoz said that construction will begin immediately, taking approximately 1.5 years to complete.

Authorities praised Hotel Guadalmina’s international brand management, exquisite dining, and yearround availability. The hotel’s upgrade adds to the city’s impressive array of luxury accommodation, solidifying Marbella’s national and international reputation.

The hotel, originally built in 1959 and renovated in 1999,

is set to undergo another significant transformation, including introducing convention halls, more diverse dining options, a spa, and other five­star amenities. The hotel will also grow by 70 rooms and also aims to attract business travellers.

Hotel Guadalmina joins

seven other local hotels which have used the regional government’s modernisation programme, making the Marbella city area the most popular with the initiative. The initiative shows the local government’s confidence in the city, approving multiple investment projects.

Focus on nature

IN celebration of World Environment Day, set to take place on Monday, June 5, Marbella City Council has launched the third edition of the ‘Marbella and the Environment’ Photography Contest.

Participants are invited to capture their unique perspective on the city’s natural spaces, resources, landscape, and biodiversity through a single snapshot.

Each entry must consist of a maximum of two unsigned photographs, sized 20x30 centimetres, mounted on A3 black card.

Additionally, participants must provide a digital copy on a USB drive or by email to activities. medioambiente@marbel la.es.

The photographs, which must be original and previously unpublished, will go on display in an exhibition at the Real de la Misericordia Hospital from the afternoon of Monday, May 29 until Monday, June 12,

between 9am ­ 2pm and 4pm­8pm each day.

Participants must submit their entries, along with the registration form, to the Municipal Department of Environment located in the Virgen del Carmen Marina

control building before 2pm on Monday, May 29.

This exciting initiative also offers incredible prizes of hotel stays and two dinners each for the winning three submissions, courtesy of event sponsors.

Spain’s scooter sensations

MARBELLA’S excellent sports facilities have proved their credentials once again as the Spanish national scooter team announced their decision to train in the city’s newly­renovated Cristo de los Molinos Skatepark, located in Belo Horizonte.

The national sport team announced their decision to train in Marbella on Monday, May 22, describing it as a great location to prepare for the upcoming Scooter World Championships set to be held in Madrid in June.

The state­of­the­art skatepark facility caught the attention of the national team thanks to its excellent features for preparation for high­level competition.

Led by national selector Karim Ismail and National Committee Coordinator Jesús Caravaca, the Spanish delegation, including top athletes including Alex González, Alex Pérez, Harriet Portugal, Hugo Llopart, and Guifré Obradors, descended upon Marbella to begin their rigorous training programme.

Covering an impressive area of 600 metres squared, the skatepark will also serve as the official venue for this year’s Spanish National Scooter Championship. It boasts a variety of ramps catering to different skill levels, as well as a spectator area with wooden benches that blend into the surrounding pine forest.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Marbella

GREEN LIGHT: Authorities announced the project this week.

Midsummer meal

ACE SHIN Animal Rescue Shelter is welcoming the summer season with a midsummer lunch event on Saturday, June 10.

The venue of choice is the charming Restaurante La Sierra, located at the picturesque Cerrado del Aguila Golf Resort in Mijas Costa. The festivities kick off at 1.30pm, promising an afternoon filled with delicious food, live entertainment, and charity giving. Guests can look forward to a sparkling glass of cava upon arrival, setting the tone for a luxurious experience. The three ­ course meal boasts gourmet options like baked goat cheese with walnuts,

and prawn cocktail with avocado mousse as well as tantalising desserts. Vegan alternatives are also available. Guests will also be served wine, beer, soft drinks, and water throughout the lunch.

REGRETTABLY, La Cala Lions have announced that their Spring Fayre and Fashion Show, scheduled to take place on Monday, May 29 in Mijas, has been cancelled.

The cancellation decision has not been taken lightly, but has been made due to poor weather conditions at present and a

Following lunch, a captivating performance by renowned singer Ricky Lavazza will entertain, before a charity raffle offering incredible prizes.

The lunch also has a heartwarming mission, supporting ACE SHIN animal rescue. Since 1999, this remarkable charity has saved over 27,000 dogs and many cats. By attending the event, guests can contribute to the cause.

Tickets are available from the venue, as well as through sponsors IBEX in Fuengirola and Snack Attack in La Cala de Mijas.

Alternatively, guests can contact Carolyn: 647 647 671 or Martyn: 711 039 124.

Event cancellation

lack of interest in the event.

La Cala Lions would like to apologise for any disappointment caused by the announcement and say that the clothes intended for the fashion show will be on sale at discounted prices in their shops.

FUENGIROLA’S biggest music venue, Marenostrum, has dropped its first confirmed announcement for its 2024 calendar, with the arrival of the Mexican music sensation, Christian Nodal, who will perform on Saturday, July 13, next year.

The news was unveiled by Fuengirola’s councillor for Culture, Romero Rodrigo, on Tuesday, May 23, who shared some more details about the performance. Fresh from a sold­out show at Madrid’s iconic WiZink Centre, Nodal will be gracing the stage in July next year as part of the Fuengirola concert series.

“This announcement comes straight from the artist himself, who is currently making waves in Spain. He packed the WiZink Centre with 15,000 fans and decided to unveil his 2024 tour,” Romero explained.

Guests can prepare for an unforgettable evening, because Nodal, the rising star and beacon of current Mexican music, will be treating his Spanish fans to three exclusive performances in Madrid, Barcelona, and Fuengirola.

Setting the tone

next year, Nodal will spend a few days in Fuengirola, showcasing why he’s a household name in his home country

and making waves globally with collaborations featuring the likes of David Bisbal and Camilo.

Designs dreams achieved

MARBELLA Design Academy pulled out all the stops as they celebrated their remarkable Class of 2023 in a graduation ceremony held at the design school in Monda on Friday, May 12.

This momentous event showcased the extraordinary achievements of 39 gifted graduates from the design school’s prestigious programmes including Interior Architecture, Graphic Design, and Fashion.

This celebration marked the culmination of three years of study and the students’ unwavering passion for design. Students, their families and special guests from the design industry gathered for a ceremony which combined a traditional graduation ceremony with an opportunity for the students to display their final year projects.

Graphic Design and Interior Architecture students wowed the audience with their captivating showreels and final projects, showcasing their exceptional skills and creativity. Fashion Design students then took over on an outdoor runway, unveiling their innovative final collections that pushed the boundaries of fashion and imagination.

Marbella Design Academy extends heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2023 for their outstanding achievements and wishes them success in their future endeavours.

Marbella Design Academy is a renowned institution for creative higher education, offering BA (Hons) validated programmes.

ACE shelter gets rescue dogs’ tails wagging again.

Argentinian extravaganza

GUESTS are invited to a cultural and culinary extravaganza at the Argentinian National Festival arriving in Torremolinos from Thursday, May 25. This year’s festival is set to take place at the Oasis de la Playa del Bajondillo.

Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the vibrant celebration that blends Argentine culture and gastronomy, and which will last for 12 hours each day from 12pm. Over the course of the three day festival , visitors will be treated to traditional performances such as Argentine folk ballets, tango shows, and thrilling displays of gaucho horsemen showcasing their skills with boleadoras and bombos.

Guests can delight their taste buds with authentic Argentinian cuisine, including mouthwatering asado grilled meat, while exploring the country’s craftsmanship. The entire area will be transformed into a huge Argentinian party during the event.

The event is being held on Thursday, May 25, which is a significant national day in the country. On this day in 1810, the first indigenous government was established in the Cabildo of Buenos Aires, putting an end to colonial rule by Spain.

Admission to the festival is also free each of the days.

Festival finale

THE ‘Marbella Todo Danza Festival’ is heading towards its thrilling finale this week with the captivating show ‘Mariana’ by Luz Arcas, followed by the grand finale led by Eva Yerbabuena.

The first performance will take place on Thursday, May 25, at 8pm at the Ciudad de Marbella Theatre, featuring the founder of La Phármaco dance company and winner of the 2015 El Ojo Crítico de Danza award and the 2015 Lorca Award for Best Female Performer.

The performance features passionate singing and dancing, reminiscent of heartfelt flamenco songs. The dance routine comes from the soul of performers, with strength and vulnerability, in a dance that is as abstract and symbolic but also visually appealing.

On Saturday, May 27, at 8pm, the festival will conclude with Eva Yerbabuena’s extraordinary performance at the Marbella Municipal Theatre. Eva, an acclaimed dancer honoured with numerous

awards, will be accompanied by Paco Jarana on guitar. Her flamenco choreography will take the audience on a journey through time as she reflects, studies, and seeks harmony between past experiences and present emotions.

The festival’s finale is bound to be packed full of passion and talent.

CALLING all shopping lovers! Fuengirola is bringing back its ultimate retail extravaganza with the shopping campaign ‘En Primavera tus compras en Fuengirola tienen premio’.

The shopping campaign continues to attract both local residents and visitors with the chance to bag one of four sensational all­inclusive weekend getaways for two to various breathtaking national destinations. The campaign is now underway and lasts until Thursday, June 15.

Francisco Javier García Lara, the councillor for Business, is looking to give local businesses a resounding boost with the initiatives. “We want our local shops and boutiques to attract more business,” he explained.

Retail rewards

García Lara added that authorities have cut back on red tape, making the competition as easy as possible for shoppers to take part in, which has also been popular with local businesses who are expecting more shoppers.

To take part, shoppers need to snap a selfie of your shopping receipts when spending more than €20 and send it along with contact details (name, address, and phone number) to primavera@fuengiro la.org. Alternatively, drop by the council’s Department for Business and Commerce where you can submit your receipt in person.

THRILLING: Eva Yerbabuena will end the dance festival with a flamenco finale.

Photo credit: Ana Palma via Ayuntamiento de Marbella

Lions’ Charter Night

LA CALA Lions have released a ‘Save the Date’ for their annual Charter Night, which is set to take place on Friday, June 16 at the Green Label Restaurant in Mijas.

This year is set to be an even more memorable occasion as this year’s Charter Night commemorates 25 years of the club operating in Mijas. The annual Charter Night celebrates the establishment of the club and has included a luxury threecourse meal and evening entertainment in previous years. Tickets for the exclusive evening event are set to be released in the Lions shop in La Cala de Mijas in due course. La Cala Lions is a

LONELINESS is a prevalent and global problem for adult populations, and it has been linked to multiple chronic conditions, including: heart disease. It’s a major predictor of psychological problems, such as depression, psychological stress, and anxiety.

This is a particular problem on the Costa del Sol for retired expats where many couples moved from the UK and decided to live in Spain. The exodus started in the 80s and involved all ages, some to retire, younger couples to set up businesses and all hoping for a better life, better climate, and a cheaper cost of living.

It worked for many, others returned to the UK having used up all their savings at failed businesses. Marriages broke up, partners died and for many it was impossible to move back and buy property in the UK because of the high cost of housing. Coupled to this was the difficulty so many found in trying to master a foreign language.

There are now many expats living here and suffering from loneliness causing serious harm to one’s health and bringing great distress to the individual.

There are many associations that one can join to alleviate loneliness, Lions, Rotary, Freemasons, etc, but not everyone wants to

non­profit community organisation that supports those in need and organises regular social and charity events in aid of courses close to the hearts of members’ hearts. The club is made up

of international members and local residents. The group is also part of the International Lions initiative and regularly donates to overseas causes supported by the International Lions.

Don’t ever be lonely

be involved in these somewhat formal but fantastic groups who do so much to help charities in the area.

Some people just want to join a simple group and feel wanted, accepted and welcome. Such a group is Simply Thriving Group, started in the pandemic as Simply Surviving and helped out many businesses to survive at such a difficult time. After the pandemic it changed to Simply Thriving, just a simple social group where monthly lunches and monthly events are held and anyone

can join in. There is always a table for singles, but it is not a single dating group.

Simply Thriving group operate from September until June. On June 28 they have their last event of the year at La Sierra. It is the Posh Red Carpet evening with drinks, meal, entertainment and fun for just €39 and €4 per person is donated to Last Chance Animal Association. Everyone is welcome, book with Jeremy at La Sierra or Val on 951 313 257. Please do not feel isolated or lonely on this coast.

SAVE THE DATE: For the Lions’ annual Charter Night event.

Photo credit: Lions Club of La Cala de Mijas

ON Saturday June 3, the very popular From the Jam will make their first ever Spanish appearance at the Benalmadena Auditorium.

Prior to their arrival, one of the founding members of The Jam spoke exclusively to Euro Weekly News about his long career and how this band was formed.

It was in 1977 that The Jam obtained their first recording contract and the trio consisting of former Woking schoolboys, Bruce Foxton, Paul Weller and Rick Buckler burst on the scene.

They couldn’t really be categorised as punk but with their Mod image and biting music certainly ruled the record charts until 1982 when they broke up.

During that time, they had 18 consecutive top 40 singles before Paul Weller decided to call it a day in 1982 and they disbanded.

Bruce, the bass player spent 15 years in punk band Stiff Little Fingers and then formed another band Casbah Club with Russell Hastings and more by luck than judgement they

Bruce Foxton is From the Jam

sell for so long and having seen the reaction from fans who enjoyed the music so much, the pair decided to keep on playing the songs that they and their audience loved so much.

They are still going strong with literally hundreds of gigs booked through to 2024 but there was an opportunity to visit Spain for the first time, so the expanded band which has added Andy Fairclough on keyboards and Mike Reddon on drums decided it was time to bring their brand of music to a Spanish audience.

“The closest I’ve been to Spain is when my wife came as part of a hen party” laughed Bruce “but why ignore a chance to bring our music to both an established as well as a hopefully new audience.”

were booked to play a gig with a band which included former Jam drummer Rick Buckler.

Bruce explained, “we had no intention of forming a new band but thought it might be fun to play a couple of old numbers during the sound

check and it sounded and felt really good!

“There were a few more similar sessions and we kept in touch with each other and then in 2007 decided to form From the Jam.”

That lasted a couple of years but in

2009 Bruce said “I received an email from Rick simply saying he was leaving the band with no explanation and I still don’t know what happened, although he appears to have wanted to become a writer.”

Having worked with guitarist Rus­

When asked if he ever got bored with playing the same songs, Bruce said ”Although the set will be pretty much all Jam songs apart from a couple from my album with Russell Butterfly Effect there are so many Jam songs, we can change the set list every time we play.”

Tickets for the June 3 event (where they are supported by veteran British punk band The Wasps) are available at https://www.ticketsource.eu/wag-promotions and let’s hope for viewers of BBC 1’s Have I Got News For You that they play News of the World, a definite Jam favourite. If you can’t make the gig then visit https://www.fromthejamofficial.com/ to get their live album.

FROM THE JAM: The latest line-up on stage.

Credit: Steve White

Betty Henderson

IN a remarkable thawing of relations, the new ambassadors of Venezuela and Nicaragua to Spain presented their credentials to King Felipe VI on Wednesday, May 17.

This ceremonial act marks the end of years of political and diplomatic disagreements between Spain and the two Latin American countries. The Venezuelan ambassador to Spain is Coromoto Godoy Calderón, a 57­year­old diplomat and lawyer. The new head of the Nicaraguan mission is Maurizio Gelli, a 64 year old Italian­born diplomat recently naturalised as Nicaraguan.

Breaking the ice

The Venezuelan Foreign Ministry hailed this event as the result of their commitment to reinstate friendly relations and cooperation with Spain,

IN a groundbreaking decision, the United Nations Human Rights Committee ruled in favour of the exiled President of Catalonia, Carles Puigdemont, on Thursday, May 18. The UNHRC stated that Spain unlawfully stripped him of his parliamentary seat without a valid legal basis.

The committee concluded that Spain violated Article 25 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which safeguards every national’s right to participate in public affairs, vote, stand for office, and have access to public service.

dubbing it ‘Poetry for Peace’ on social media. Godoy has already been serving as the Venezuelan Chargé d’Affaires in Spain for a year.

Belated search for Brit

John Ensor

These diplomatic breakthroughs come after years of tensions. Spain’s recognition of Juan Guaidó as Venezuela’s interim president strained relations with the country, but recent negotiations have prompted a shift toward engaging with Nicolás Maduro’s government. Similarly, Nicaragua’s political repression and human rights violations prompted Spain to withdraw its ambassador, but discussions are underway for normalisation of political and economic relations.

Political foul play

The UN has demanded that Spain provide information within 180 days on the measures taken to prevent similar violations from occurring in the future.

This landmark decision comes five years after British lawyer Ben Emmerson lodged a complaint with the UN on Puigedemont’s behalf. Emmerson said the blocking of Puigdemont’s candidacy for the

presidency of Catalonia after the December 2017 elections and the suspension of his parliamentary mandate were unlawful. The UN committee agrees with Puigdemont’s complaint, but they believe that simply recognising it is enough to make up for what happened and say he is not automatically entitled to become the President.

IT was announced on Thursday May 18 that a search was underway involving police divers for a British national who disappeared seven months ago.

The search for Levi Davis, 25, a former Bath Rugby Union player and X Factor star commenced in Barcelona and the Llobregat Delta, a nearby wetland zone according to a news source.

A police boat left the port of Vilanova i la Geltrú for the south entrance of the dock. It was at that location where a cruise ship reported someone in the water in the early hours of October 30.

Police investigations at the time found all passengers accounted for and only a life jacket floating in the sea, which had been thrown from the vessel.

Despite the area being previously searched by the Guardia Civil and mar­

itime rescue teams, the Mossos d’Esquadra promised Davis’ family that they would resume the search after a meeting they held with his mother.

This comes after later evidence emerged from the cruise ship MSC Bellisima that someone was heard shouting ‘help,’ clearly enough for them to dispatch a life jacket.

The disappearance of Levi Davis has been a high profile one and a nightmare for his grieving family. The young man played for Bath Rugby Union as well as taking part in the X Factor with fellow players.

80% of waste items found on Spanish beaches is plastic.

Photo credit: Cancillería Venezuela (via Twitter)

The King receives the Venezuelan ambassador.

MADRID played host to a momentous celebration of the lengthy friendship between Spain and China on Thursday, May 18.

The Chinese Embassy was the setting for a special event marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The Embassy welcomed more than 500 guests, including dignitaries, cultural figures, and ambassadors from various countries.

The Chinese Ambassador to Spain, Wu Haitao, highlighted the deep bond between the two nations and

Half a century

the value of this connection. He stated that the relationship has been built on mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit, setting a solid foundation for strong bilateral relations.

Notable attendees including María Gloria Elizo, Third Vice President of the Congress, emphasised the growing trade, academic, cultural, and political exchanges between Spain and China. She stressed that both countries benefit from this rela­

A WOMAN has been placed under investigation by the Guardia Civil in the Zamora region of Sanabria. She is suspected of allegedly attempting to start a forest fire.

The suspect was caught in the act by the police while trying to set fire to an area of brooms located on a mountain in the municipality of Robleda­Cervantes.

Officers from the El Puente barracks, assisted by a Seprona patrol from Puebla de Sanabria established a discreet surveillance operation in the region. This was initiated on April 20, after a fire was detected in the area.

According to a statement on Saturday, May 13, from the Government Sub­delega­

A majestic affair

tionship, which is built on respect and cooperation.

Pilar Cancela, Secretary of State for International Cooperation, spoke about the countries’ increasing collaboration in various areas, particularly in the economy and culture.

Francisco Blanco, Secretary General of Industry and SMEs, encouraged business interactions and highlighted Spain’s growing appeal as an investment destination for Chinese companies.

Fire-raiser

tion in Zamora, fires of similar characteristics had occurred in this same region in previous years.

As reported in the statement, on April 27, the operation finally paid off. The officers caught a middle­aged woman ‘red­handed’ as she tried to start a fire using a direct flame. The subsequent fire was quickly extinguished by the policemen to stop it from spreading. They identified the culprit and she was placed under investigation for the crime of attempting to start a forest fire.

Betty Henderson

THE British Ambassador to Spain, Hugh Elliott and his wife, María Antonia Martín, threw a lavish party to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III in Madrid on Wednesday, May 17.

More than 1,000 guests attended the event, including politicians, business leaders, and cultural figures. The party, initially planned at the ambassador’s residence, had to be moved to the Crystal Gallery of the Cibeles Palace due to the overwhelming response.

The Madrid City Hall was adorned with British and Spanish flags, and even resembled London’s Regent Street in some areas. The venue was decorated with images of the coronation and provided a regal atmosphere with red decorations and thrones for guests to experience a taste of royalty.

During a speech, Ambassador Elliott praised the unity between Spain and Britain, highlighting the shared values and close relationship between the two nations. He also expressed support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s invasion and emphasised King Charles III’s commitment to environmental issues.

Ambassador Elliott later shared his personal impressions of the coronation, highlighting Prince

George’s role as a pageboy, the beautiful music, and the festive atmosphere in London.

British Ambassador Hugh Elliott greets a guest.

Photo credit: British Embassy, Madrid (via Facebook)

The year in which the Spanish Civil War broke out.

New rules for holiday lettings

SPAIN’S holiday letting market faces new rules according to information compiled by Spence Clarke & Co.

Whilst there is a continued boom in new builds of all sorts, particularly in popular tourist destinations as well as a glut of abandoned builds handled by ‘bad bank’ Sareb, there never seems to be enough reasonably priced social housing.

A bit like Jekyll and Hyde the current Spanish government welcomes tourists many of whom want holiday lets whilst at the same time is making it more difficult for small home owners to let their properties out.

There are some new requirements to report information to the Spanish government for property owners renting on a holiday basis further to the Spanish Real Decreto 933/2021, of October 26 and in theory these changes are effective from June 2023.

This Royal Decree re ­

quires digital platforms and hosts to provide additional information about the reservations (hosts, guests personal details, property details, accommodations, etc.) to the Spanish national authorities (Ministry of the Interior).

This needs to be reported within 24 hours from the booking and the information must be reported on the following website: https://sede.mir.gob.es/ opencms/export/sites/default/es/procedimientos­yservi cios/hospedajes ­ yalquiler­de­vehiculos/ So far it is only possible to complete this with a Spanish digital certificate (DC) and you have to apply for it in person at an appropriate Government Office, although agents such as Spence Clarke may well be able to assist if you are out of Spain. When complying with this requirement you need to have previously alerted guests to the fact that you are transferring

their information to the government in order to observe Data Protection requirements.

It appears that the Spanish government has indicated that it will provide the option of reporting the data without using this online procedure, although the details about this have not yet been released.

Incorrect reporting of guest information can attract a fine of between €100 and €600 whilst failing to appear on the registry is a serious offence and can be punished by a fine of up to €30,000.

150,000 tomatoes are thrown every year at the Tomatina festival.

Runway for rescue

LA CALA is about to witness a dazzling fusion of fashion and charity as Glass The Label boutique prepares to host an exclusive fashion show and party on Friday,

May 26, in aid of ACE Animal Charity.

The luxury iGolf venue in La Cala de Mijas will be transformed into a glamorous runway, where Glass

Grilling and giving

THE AREME Foreign Residents of Estepona Association is thrilled to announce a delicious charity lunch set to take place on Sunday, June 11. The outdoor lunch will feature an irresistible hog roast lunch, fresh from the Marbella Hog Roast Company.

The lunch is set to take place in the town’s Parque Antena at Sol y Sierra, also known as Rita’s Bar, with activities underway from 1pm until 6pm.

As guests relish the succulent flavours of the hog roast lunch, they can also enjoy live music from talented performer, Karen Danzig. The event will also be an excellent social event and opportunity for foreign residents to meet like­minded individuals in the local community.

Tickets for the afternoon cost €25 which includes the lunch as well as a donation to the organisers’ choice of animal rescue charities. Tickets are available for purchase directly from AREME committee members or via email: areme2022@ gmail.com.

Tickets can also be purchased from Sol y Sierra and ViceVersa on their quiz nights, held every first and third Thursday of the month.

Dreams and moonbeams

The Label will showcase their latest collection. The audience will be treated to a stunning display of style and sophistication as models strut their stuff on the catwalk in the boutique’s newest styles.

Adding to the allure of the event, former TV stylist Lisa Burgess, will take the stage as the MC. She announced her excitement at returning to her roots and bringing her expertise to this remarkable event.

Following the fashion show, guests will have the chance to order tapas dishes and refreshing cocktails before an exciting raffle is drawn, offering guests the chance to win fabulous prizes in aid of ACE Animal Rescue. The festivities will continue into the night with an afterparty featuring a live DJ.

Tickets to the event cost €15 and can be purchased from Glass The Label or iGolf.

PREPARE for an unforgettable evening under the shimmering moonlight! Donkey Dreamland is delighted to bring back their popular Full Moon Donkey Walk on Saturday, June 3. The enchanting event promises to be a magical experience.

The adventure begins at 7pm at Donkey Dreamland sanctuary in Mijas. Guests can join a leisurely walk with the friendly donkeys and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the full moon.

After the walk, guests can relax and interact with the adorable donkeys at the sanctuary, all while basking in the celestial glow of the moon above.

Entry to the event costs €15 per per­

son(€6.50 for children aged three to 15, and free for children under three), which includes a delightful tapas snack at a picnic and a refreshing drink. Additional drinks will be available for an extra donation.

To confirm attendance, visit www.don keydreamland.com/fullmoon

The Full Moon Walk is a popular event, with May’s event attracting more than 100 supporters who enjoyed a lovely stroll with the rescue donkeys, despite the moon playing shy behind the clouds. Donkey Dreamland provides a loving and peaceful home for mistreated donkeys, offering them respite.

Guests stroll alongside the donkeys.

Lunchtime moments, with a taste of la dolce vita Cipriani Marbella is open

Be amongst the first to experience the classic glamour and unparalleled service of Marbella’s new coveted lunch spot, Cipriani Marbella, at Puente Romano Beach Resort. Sip a famous Bellini on the elegant, shaded terrace, and savour traditional Italian signature dishes from the celebrated Harry’s Bar in Venice.

The name is legendary worldwide. Now the Bellini cocktail and Carpaccio “alla Cipriani” that were first invented and named by Giuseppe Cipriani Sr at Harry’s Bar in Venice have arrived in Marbella.

Bringing authentic Italian gastronomic glamour to Puente Romano Beach Resort’s exciting world­class restaurant collection, this latest addition offers a tempting menu for lunch (and dinner) that reflects Cipriani’s Venetian origins.

As one review said: “There is an indisputable sense of sprezzatura that permeates each one of the Cipriani venues. They carry within them the type of moviestar confidence that is only achieved after becoming a global icon and beating all the odds.”

Italian food made to perfection

Cipriani Marbella’s à la carte menu is built on the concept of simple Italian food made to perfection. It features signature dishes from the legendary Harry’s Bar in Venice, including Calf’s Liver “alla Veneziana” with Fried Polenta, Baked Tagliolini with Ham, and Risotto “alla Primavera” appealing to a variety of tastes. These Italian favourites use seasonal, premium ingredients and produce, many sourced from Italian farms, adding authenticity to the menu.

The stylish, timeless restaurant, featuring an intimate bar and restaurant decorated in Cipriani’s iconic nautical colours, with Murano glass chandeliers, blue and white terrazzo patterned floor, high gloss wood and contemporary black­and­white fashion photography adorning the walls. Cipriani Marbella also has a large garden terrace, perfect for long, leisurely lunches.

As the Cipriani motto goes, “To serve is first to love,” so guests can also look forward to

SOROPTIMIST International

Costa del Sol is hosting a dazzling dinner dance in aid of charity on Saturday, June 17.

The women’s service organisation’s annual event will be held at the stunning Green Label Restaurant in El Chaparral, in Mijas Costa.

Upon arrival, guests will be welcomed on the Purple Carpet with a glass of cava. They can then explore the venue’s terrace, which offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, Morocco, and Gibraltar. The terrace will also feature local business and artisan stalls, adding to the social ambiance.

Guests will then be treated to a delicious three­course dinner, as well as entertainment by the dynamic dance group, POP Academia Fama, led by the talented Manuela Veronese.

Dine and dance

Guests will also be serenaded by gifted singer, Laura Carter.

Meals will be available to suit different dietary requirements, including vegan options, and will be accompanied by unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks.

The event will also raise

Party with purpose

funds for the organisation’s humanitarian projects, including support for domestic violence victims, supplying fresh produce to the local foodbank, and sponsoring girls in sports.

Lunching for love

GUESTS are invited to an exciting charity lunch event supporting Hundevermittlung Domino Dogs in Need in Malaga animal rescue. The afternoon event is set to take place on Saturday, June 3, and guests are in for a treat!

The charity is hosting this special occasion at La Mar Restaurante on Marbella’s Paseo Maritimo, starting from 1.30pm. The restaurant will also generously donate 30 per cent of their daily sales volume to the cause.

Guests will indulge in a gourmet three­course menu with mouthwatering starters like Shrimp Tempura or Beef Carpaccio, followed by main courses like Cajun Salmon or La Mar Burger before dessert options including a brownie or cheesecake.

Live musical entertainment will fill the air, ensuring a delightful atmosphere throughout the afternoon. Guests can also participate in an exciting raffle, with a chance to win stunning artwork created by Petra.

Tickets to the event cost €35, which includes the meal, but not drinks. To reserve a table, contact the organisers on 620 651 365 or the restaurant directly on 652 722 666, or alternatively, email domino.rescue@gmail.com

JOIN the Costa Women for their upcoming Charity Summer Party on Wednesday, June 14 at PLAY Restaurant in Mijas. This social extravaganza will also raise funds for the Cudeca Cancer Care Hospice.

The party will feature a delightful threecourse meal featuring options including chicken churrasco, grilled salmon or risotto.

Guests can look forward to a fabulous fashion show featuring the latest collection from Mapuchi Moda, providing a glimpse of the latest styles. Fabulosa Lingerie will also showcase their stunning swimwear collection for those interested in the hottest summer trends.

Guests will then experience the captivating world of Bollywood Dance, brought to

life by Aruna, an expert in this enchanting art form. Aruna’s vibrant and energetic moves will have guests grooving along to the beat.

Later, guests can let loose on the dance floor as Costa del Sol Music provides an energetic playlist to keep the party going.

To secure your place, email summer@ costawomen.com, with your details and menu choices which can be found on the event page at: https://www.facebook. com/events/981684269666783/. Tickets to the event cost €40 which includes a donation to Cudeca.

The Costa Women is a free community supporting women living in, or thinking about moving to Spain.

The Costa Women is a vibrant community of women in Spain.

THE Gibraltar World Music Festival is set to make its grand return on Tuesday, June 13, and international music lovers are eagerly anticipating the event.

Organised by the BrightMed team, the 2023 edition of the festival promises to be an immersive musical experience for all attendees. With a theme entitled ‘Kúshame!’, the festival aims to explore the universal language of music.

Taking place at Gibraltar’s St Michael’s Cave on the evening of Tuesday, June 13, the festival will feature a series of mesmerising concerts by acclaimed global artists including Al’Fado, an IsraeliPortuguese ensemble Liraz, and Anna RF.

These talented performers will showcase the rich diversity and beauty of music, captivating the audience with their enchanting melodies.

Each year, the Gibraltar World Music Festival embraces a distinct theme, cele­

brating different cultures and musical traditions.

Tickets for the Gibraltar World Music Festival 2023 are now available for purchase, priced at £40, with some concessions on offer. Tickets can be purchased on­

line at: www.buytickets.gi/ events/gibraltar­world­mu sic­festival­2023­633 More information about the event, including up­to­date details about performances, is available at: www.facebook.com/ GibraltarWorldMusicFestival/

Gibraltar’s global sounds Glittering summer gala Runway ready

THE Age Concern Association of the Costa del Sol is preparing to celebrate their 20th anniversary next month in style. The organisation is set to host a glamorous fashion show at Club Naranja in Calahonda on Saturday, June 17.

Guests are invited for an afternoon of fashion and friendship at the event which will also feature live music, with delicious food and refreshing drinks available.

Models will hit the runway in chic ensembles put together by the team at the event which will celebrate the organisation’s two decades of supporting over 65s on the Costa del Sol and raise money for their future charitable work.

As part of their preparations, the group is seeking enthusiastic ladies interested in modelling three to four outfits during the show. If you’ve always dreamt of strutting your stuff on the runway, this is your chance to shine and embrace your inner model.

Anyone interested in modelling can visit the Age Care Association shop in El Zoco and speak to Tom, Natalie, Roger, or Barbara. Alternatively, guests can get in touch with Rachael at the group’s Calahonda coffee mornings.

IN an evening that promises glamour, elegance, and a touch of enchantment, Camerata Sotogrande is preparing to host their Summer Charity Gala on Saturday, June 10. The venue for the evening will be a picturesque private garden nestled in the heart of Sotogrande, where guests are invited to arrive from 8pm. The exact location will be revealed closer to the date.

Guests are invited to bring their own picnics to the event, which they can share while being serenaded by Camerata Sotogrande choir, as well as a lineup of exceptional musicians. Guests can also preorder wine by contacting organisers who will have it delivered directly to the venue.

This dazzling event has been organised in aid of three incredible local causes: Age Concern, St George’s Charity, and Collective Calling. Tickets cost €30 which will go towards the charities.

Tables to seat 10­12 people each will be available at the venue. Guests are invited to decorate their tables, with a prize also available for the ‘best dressed table’. Other activities include a raffle featuring fabulous prizes. For additional information about the event and ticket purchases, guests can visit the choir’s website: www.cameratasoto grande.org or reach out via email: camera tasotogrande@gmail. com.

Alternatively, guests can contact organisers by calling 644 740 520

FROM humble beginnings to owning and running the stunning Villa Tiberio in Marbella, we spoke with well ­ known Restaurateur Sandro Morelli about his involvement with Children with Cancer UK and his amazing fundraising achievements.

Starting his culinary career at both the Ritz and Cavendish Hotels in London before opening what would be come two legendary restaurants, Barbarella I and II, a chance vacation brought Sandro to Marbella, where he opened Villa Tiberio. From here, Sandro has become a pillar in the community after being the founder of Cudeca Cancer

Villa Tiberio: A night not to be missed for Children with Cancer UK

The event is to be held at the stunning Villa Tiberio hosted by Sandro Morelli.

Care

Hospice and raising over €548,000 for Children with Cancer UK.

Sandro told us:

“I have lived in two different worlds. I was born in Naples during the war and was begging on the street to raise money for my family, now I live in the beautiful Marbella. I learned in life that if you are good, God will help you.”

“Success is to help the children of the world, we need to stop their suffering and protect them at all costs. As long as I am alive, I will help people in their time of need and the vulnerable children who need protection.”

The Spring to Summer Charity Gala for Children with Cancer UK will be held at the stunning Villa Tiberio, with special guests Harry and Sandra Redknapp and former TOWIE star turned singer ‘Arge’ James Argent entertaining guests. The evening will be held on Sunday May 28 and tickets cost

€75, of which €25 will be donated to Children with Cancer UK. Over 200 guests have already booked their place, with Sandro saying he believes the evening will raise around €35,000 for this incredible and worthy cause.

Sandro also told us about his fundraising and support for Cudeca: “My involvement in Cudeca started when I spoke to Joan Hunt after her husband sadly passed away. She wanted to create a hospice for endof­life care, something that has never been done on the Costa del Sol, and asked for my help . I of course agreed. We raised money from Europe and

through fundraising events, and we now have over 1,000 people in endof­life care being treated through Cudeca.

“We always need donations at Cudeca, and appreciate anybody who can donate money, clothes, or whatever they can spare for this very important cause. We also invite people to the Children with Cancer UK event at the end of this month, which will be held in our beautiful gardens and raise much­needed funds.”

Cousins win the lottery

COUSINS who built their own homes on a plot of land left to them by their grandfather have won the postcode lottery.

When the houses were built the land was not in a

street and so the council told Margaret Livens and Joyce Ablitt that they would have to give the properties a street name so they could have a postcode.

The couple then named

Avoiding speeding ticket

UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman has been accused of asking civil servants for special treatment to avoid a ticket or fine it has been claimed. Labour called for an investigation on Saturday, May 20.

Braverman has been accused of asking for a private speed awareness course, a one­off measure that ‘retrains’ drivers rather than giving them a direct penalty.

The speed awareness course is only available once every three years, so a second penalty within that time frame would result in a ticket and fine.

Ms Braverman was accused of first consulting civil servants who refused to help her, and then asking course providers who also turned her down, eventually having to accept three points on her licence.

She had allegedly petitioned for a private 1­to­1 session or a video course in which she could turn her camera off and use a false name. She was thought to have had concerns about being recognised.

A Tory MP reported that Ms Braverman asked on her first day in parliament whether she could claim a speeding ticket as an expense. The Cabinet Office has declined to comment on this latest misdemeanour as the Home Secretary continues to agitate opponents.

the street, and a postcode was allotted to the two properties in Little Neston, Cheshire.

They then entered the postcode lottery and to their surprise and delight Margaret and Harry Livens and widow, Joyce won £333,333 each.

But for Joyce Ablitt the win was tinged with sadness. She lost her husband 12 years ago and said it was sad that he “wasn’t here to share it.”

Margaret Livens said she wanted to spend some of the money on a holiday with her two daughters and their four grandchildren. Joyce Ablitt said she was considering a cruise to the Norwegian fiords, but that while she was happy to spend the £333, she wanted to be careful with the other larger amount.

Both woman have faced health struggles in the past.

Margaret has just been given her fourth year all clear for breast cancer and Joyce had a stroke 20 years ago and wasn’t able to walk for some time.

Adventurer’s record stay

SCIENCE teacher Chris Cameron, a 53 ­ year ­ old adventurer, is embarking on a two­month solo expedition to Rockall, a desolate islet located deep in the Atlantic Ocean.

In his quest to break the record for the longest occupation of this inhospitable lump of granite, Cameron will set sail for Rockall this week, where he plans to spend 60 days on a small ledge raising money for charity.

The lump of granite in question is situated northwest of Scotland and is permanently exposed to the elements making the decision to do this challenge over the summer months wise, or maybe just a little less crazy.

Rockall is located around 230 miles from the nearest inhabited place in the Outer Hebrides.

Rockall has bountiful fishing grounds and has

seen ongoing territorial disputes between Ireland and the UK, with British ownership established in 1955.

Mr Cameron hopes to beat the previously held record of 45 days set by Nick Hancock from Edinburgh, in 2014. Hancock had also planned to last 60 days on the islet, but bad weather conditions caused him to lose essential supplies and necessitated an early end to his stay.

ROCKALL: The desolate islet is located deep in the Atlantic Ocean.

Targeting violence

SHOCKWAVES have reverberated throughout Serbia when two mass shootings occurred within days of each other earlier this month. However, what followed has been a wave of outrage and a call for change.

Tens of thousands took to the streets of Belgrade, joined by smaller rallies across the country, united under the banner ‘Serbia Against Violence’. Their message was clear: an end to the pervasive culture of violence believed to have contributed to the tragic incidents in Belgrade on Wednesday, May 3 and Mladenovac on Thursday, May 4.

While the government downplayed the protests, both demonstrators and authorities

IN a disturbing turn of events, the great­nephew of France’s First Lady, Brigitte Macron, was brutally assaulted in an apparent politically motivated attack.

Jean ­ Baptiste Trogneux fell victim to anti ­ government protesters in Amiens shortly after President Emmanuel Macron’s televised address about the country’s hugely unpopular pension reforms on Monday, May 15.

The vicious attackers mer­

have found common ground on the issue of gun control. President Aleksandar Vucic swiftly announced a “general disarmament”, implementing a month­long amnesty for illegal weapons. Severe consequences were warned for those defying the gun permit requirements.

The response to the disarmament initiative was largely positive. According to a report released on Wednesday, May 17, within just two days on the initiative, more guns and ammunition were surrendered than in the three previous amnesties combined.

However, protests continue over the issue of a deeper culture of violence.

Crossing the line

cilessly targeted Jean­Baptiste Trogneux, causing severe injuries to his head, arms, and legs.

President Macron swiftly condemned the assault as “unacceptable”, saying that violence has no place in a democracy. Brigitte Macron also stood in solidarity with her family, vehemently de­

nouncing the attackers for their cowardice and brutality.

Local authorities announced on Wednesday, May 17 that eight suspects who fled the scene have been arrested thanks to intervention from members of the public. The Trogneux family's iconic chocolate shop has also been repeatedly targeted by protesters, fueled by baseless rumors of a financial connection to the first family.

Volcanic ash rains down

VOLCANIC ash fell from the sky on the Italian island of Sicily on Sunday, May 21, after Mount Etna erupted again.

According to Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology, this occurred in at least one town located on the slopes of Europe’s most active volcano. Residents of Catania, eastern Sicily’s largest city, also found ash raining down on them.

As a result of reduced visibility, officials at the island’s Catania Airport grounded all flights. The weather in Sicily was already wet and cloudy so the materials thrown up by the volcano only added to the murky skies.

A post on the facility’s Facebook page read:

“Catania Airport: operations suspended until

tomorrow morning, Monday May 22. Any updates will be communicated in due time.”

Sunday’s eruption should not have come as a surprise to anybody in Sicily. An alert was issued on Thursday May 18 by Italy’s Civil Protection Agency. It warned residents of possible ‘sudden’ variations’ in Etna’s mood after in ­

creased seismic activity was registered in recent days.

Etna is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site and towers impressively above the Mediterranean holiday destination at a height of 3,330 metres (10,925 ft).

The last major eruption however was back in 1992.

MOUNT ETNA: The airport had to ground all flights.

Credit: Austin Ingram - US Navy/Creative Commons Attribution 2.0

Bordering on change

GERMANY is grappling with a sizable increase in illegal border crossings, as pressure mounts for Chancellor Olaf Scholz to address the situation with stricter policies.

Authorities reported a significant rise in unauthorised entries since the beginning of the year on Wednesday, May 17, saying approximately 20,000 people entered the country illegally between January and March, a 50 per cent surge on the same period last year.

To combat the issue, Scholz recently unveiled plans to strengthen border controls on all nine borders of Germany. He also urged European Union partners to create asylum centres on the outskirts of the bloc.

However, these measures have faced criticism from a coalition of more than 50 humanitarian organisations. They argue that the proposed asylum processes at the EU border would undermine refugee protection laws and likened the planned centres to prisons. The news comes as leaked

reports from the country’s federal police’s migration analysis for April suggested that migrant arrivals to Germany are likely to rise considerably in the coming months.

The report mentions Turkey’s elections as a factor, with refugees from Syria being directed to Germany via Belarus, Poland, and the Czech Republic.

FOREIGN embassies in Beijing, including European embassies, have been instructed to remove what China’s foreign ministry calls “politicised propaganda” from their buildings according to reports released on Wednesday, May 17.

It is believed that this directive is aimed at the Ukrainian flags proudly displayed by several missions as a show of solidarity following Russia’s invasion. The notice, issued earlier this month, cautioned against placing provocative displays on the exterior walls of embassy buildings that could incite disputes between nations.

The UK, Canadian, US, and EU embassies, along with others, have been exhibiting the Ukrainian flag as a symbol of support. Embassies often display flags or banners to express solidarity with var­

Flag fiasco

ious countries or causes, such as the LGBTQ+ Pride flag.

However, at least one diplomat told Reuters that their mission has no intention of complying with the request.

China’s stance on the Russia­Ukraine conflict has drawn attention. While Western nations have condemned Russia’s actions, China, a staunch ally of Moscow, has remained notably silent.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping has attempted to position himself as a mediator in the conflict while openly expressing support for Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Race against nature

ITALY’S northern Emilia­Romagna region has been plunged into chaos as torrential rains triggered catastrophic flooding, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

The deluge has claimed the lives of nine individuals, with several others still missing. Desperate scenes unfolded as 10,000 residents were forced to evacuate, some desperately clinging to their rooftops until rescue helicopters swooped in on rescue missions.

The flooding caused fourteen rivers to burst their banks, submerging 23 towns in the region. Landslides have severed crucial roads, isolating communities and exacerbating the already dire situation.

The devastation came just days before the Emilia­Romagna F1 Grand Prix, which was scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 20, which had to be cancelled.

With further rain on the horizon, Emilia­Romagna has

braced itself for the possibility of more devastation. Regional President Stefano Bonaccini has spoken out, urging residents to steer clear of rivers and seek shelter on higher ground.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also chaired a crisis meeting and expressed gratitude to the brave rescuers risking their lives to save others. Volunteers have flocked to the region to provide support to overwhelmed emergency services.

BORDER CROSSINGS: The German Chancellor’s immigration plans have caused backlash.

Photo credit: Olaf Scholz (via Facebook)

5th Spain has the fifth largest population in Europe.

PRESS EUROPEAN

DENMARK

Shook up

SEISMOLOGISTS could not understand why they recorded minor tremors on the Danish island of Bornholm on May 13. They called the recordings “acoustic pressure waves” and after ruling out earthquakes and explosions as the source, now believe that “some unknown atmospheric event” is the only answer.

THE NETHERLANDS

Short read

CHILDREN'S reading skills have deteriorated faster in the Netherlands than other countries, education experts found. They concluded that lessons missed during the pandemic were unlikely to be the only cause and believe the short texts used in Dutch schools do not prepare pupils for longer passages in literacy texts.

BELGIUM

On mute

BELGIAN workers now have the legal right to switch off their work phones outside working hours without fear of complaints from their employer. The new regulations apply only to firms with 20 or more employees and excludes those working in emergency services or the aviation sector.

GERMANY

Print job

HEIDELBERG will boast Europe’s largest 3Dprinted building, which will be 54 metres long, 11 metres wide and nine metres high. The ground-breaking project, which commenced on March 31 this year and should be completed by late July, will eventually house an IT company’s cloud and data centre.

FRANCE

Green scheme

FRANCE is promoting green initiatives and tax credits to attract billions of euros in investment, boosting French industry and countering Biden’s $369 billion (€422.3 billion) Green Plan. Measures include linking subsidies for electric vehicles to environmental restrictions that favour European manufacturers.

NORWAY

Wedded bliss

MORE couples are marrying in Norway and staying together longer than in the past, with approximately 21,000 people formalising their partnerships in 2022, an increase of 4,700 compared to 2021, the Norwegian Statistics Agency said. Although 17,000 spouses separated, this was the lowest number since the 80s.

FINLAND

War-torn

FINLAND awaits news regarding the European Union’s position regarding Russians who fled the country to avoid conscription. The Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) said 1,109 Russian citizens so far have sought asylum in Finland to avoid being called up to fight in the Ukraine war.

IRELAND

Cool it

JIM CHAMBERS, 62, and Stephen Cole, 40, who operate rival ice cream vans, appeared at Falcarragh District Court (County Donegal), the pair accused of fighting over the same beachside pitch. Both faced breach of the peace charges but were let off after agreeing to put aside hostilities for the summer.

ITALY

Fewer babies

FOR the first time, the number of annual births fell below 400,000 in Italy, averaging 1.25 babies per woman, official figures for 2022 revealed. The replacement rate is now negative, with the number of deaths currently exceeding the number of births, with 12 people dying for every seven babies born.

PORTUGAL

Home again

DOZENS of European Jewish community leaders attended a conference on communal strategies in Porto, whose 1,000-strong Jewish community has tripled in recent years. This was partly thanks to a 2015 law giving Portuguese citizenship to descendants of Jews expelled during the Inquisition, which began in 1536.

UKRAINE

Grain deal

AGREEMENT has been reached on extending by two months the deal allowing grain exports from Ukrainian ports in the Black Sea. The agreement between Ukraine and Russia, signed last year and brokered by the United Nations and Turkey, would otherwise have expired on May 19.

SWEDEN

Smoke-free

SWEDEN could become one of the world's first ‘smoke-free’ countries, with less than 5 per cent of the adult population smoking. With smoking rates falling from 15 to 5.6 per cent over the past 15 years, it is on course to reach this milestone within months, 17 years ahead of the EU's 2040 target.

STAT OF WEEK €1.4 billion

will go to Spain’s rolling stock manufacturer for supplying a second delivery of 56 trains under the contract it signed with Germany’s rail operator Deutsche Bahn in 2019.

BUSINESS EXTRA Sorry about that

Tasty pasty

GREGGS announced that sales have increased by 17 per cent over the last year, saying its products remained “compelling” to customers in the cost ­ of ­ living crisis. The bakery chain, which first opened in Newcastle in 1951, opened 63 new shops this year and extended some opening hours.

Defence gambit

AEROSPACE, defence and security company, Escribano Mechanical & Engineering, acquired 3 per cent of Indra, Spain’s leading IT and defence systems multinational. The €65 million transaction makes Escribano’s Indra’s second industrial partner and strengthens its presence in the Defence sector.

Winter duels

STRIKES wiped out more than 2.8 million working days in the UK during the ‘winter of discontent’, with 566 lost in March alone, official figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed. Industrial action between October 2022 and the end of March was the worst since 1989, the ONS said.

Main concern

DESPITE the cost of living crisis, 30 per cent of Spanish consumers are more concerned about sustainability than price, EY consultants found. The tendency to take environmental factors into consideration before looking at price tags was usually generational, and more common amongst the young, researchers said.

Helping hand

FAMILY members spent £38 billion (€43.76 billion) on assisting relatives over the last five years, according to a survey by insurance firm SunLife. The most common reason amongst the over ­ 50s was helping their children to buy a house, with 26 per cent contributing an average of £26,680 (€30,730).

Linda Hall

THE European Commission (EC) gave the go­ahead to Microsoft’s $69 billion (€63.21 billion) merger with Call of Duty maker Activision Blizzard.

Brussels made the proviso that Microsoft had to ensure that Activision’s game catalogue was freely available on other cloud gamestreaming providers over the next 10 years.

The decision was announced weeks after the merger was blocked by the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), whose chief executive Sarah Cardell defended the watchdog’s earlier decision.

It was not her intention to

Game on, Brussels says

countable” regulator, maintaining the English Channel had never seemed wider for attracting businesses.

“There’s a clear message here, the EU is a more attractive place to start a business than the UK,” Smith declared.

HUW PILL, the Bank of England’s top economist, apologised for suggesting that people should accept they were poorer.

create a hostile environment for businesses in the UK, Cardell told MPs a day after the European Commission approved the merger.

The CMA wanted to “create and support” the best conditions for competition, enabling companies big and small to thrive, she insisted.

REPSOL and Italian energy company Eni could begin importing Venezuelan gas and gas condensates by June.

The news was announced by Pedro Tellechea, president of state­run Petroleos de Venezuela (PDVSA), who confirmed that both companies wanted to increase the volume of their operations inside the Latin American country.

The agreement increases Europe’s supply options in the context of the energy crisis created by the Ukraine war, while bringing investment and royalties to Venezuela’s beleaguered economy.

The deal will allow Repsol and Eni to concentrate on their Perla gas field, a joint project located in the Cardon IV block in the Gulf of Venezuela. Regarded as having ‘enormous potential’, the offshore operation has increased activities reccently, up 30 per cent on 2019.

Apollo backs off

PRIVATE equity firm Apollo abandoned its £1.66 billion (€1.91 billion) takeover of the oil and gas services company, Wood Group.

The Aberdeen­based company said earlier that it would “engage” with Apollo’s final offer of 240p (€2.76) per share, after rejecting four earlier proposals which it said were too low.

Instead the New York firm announced on Monday May 15 that it would not make another offer for the business, two days before the deadline for making a firm bid or turning its back on the deal.

The European regulators said the commitments offered by Microsoft and Activision to maintain competition provided significant benefits for competition and consumers.

Meanwhile, Microsoft’s vice­chairman Brad Smith referred to the UK’s “unac­

“Global innovators will take note that, despite all its rhetoric, the UK is clearly closed for business,” Smith had said following the CMA’s decision to block in April.

Microsoft and Activision are currently setting up legal team to challenge the UK ruling.

Gas from Venezuela

stepped up sanctions against Venezuela.

Washington hopes this will encourage Nicolas Maduro’s government ­ regarded as a dictatorship ­ to allow more political freedom inside the country.

“Economic projects like these benefit both Europe and Venezuela,” said EU’s High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell.

Censured by unions, businesses and the public, Pill’s critics included his own chief, the governor of the Bank of England Andrew Bailey, who said the economist’s choice of words “was not right.”

“If I had the chance again, I would use somewhat different words to describe the challenges we all face,” Pill said.

“Although we have some difficult messages to bring. I will try to bring them in a way that is perhaps less inflammatory than maybe I managed in the past.”

Google’s Spanish profits

GOOGLE SPAIN made a €44.7 million profit in 2021, a 79.5 per cent increase on 2020.

Income rose to €214 million, 44 per cent more than during the previous year, thanks to increased demand for the company’s services, according to Google Spain’s accounts filed with the Registro Mercantil.

The Venezuela exports also required US State Department authorisation as its oil­for­debt arrangement was halted two years ago when Washington

No quick solution

MARGHERITA DELLA VALLE, Vodafone’s new chief executive, confirmed on May 16 that the company would “strategically review” the future of Vodafone España.

The telecoms company faced stiff competition in a country that was “obviously very complicated,” Della Valle acknowledged on the same day that she announced worldwide staff reductions of 11,000, approximately 10 per cent of Vodafone’s workforce.

She was reluctant to specify whether this review envisaged a sale of Vodafone Spain, as analysts already suspect.

“We cannot jump to conclusions about the steps we will take,” she said, while admitting that there were no quick solutions for Vodafone’s Spanish business.

The company had a turnover of €3.9 billion in its fiscal year that ended on March 31, a 6.5 per cent reduction on the previous fiscal year’s €4.18 billion.

“Venezuela is at present burning gas it cannot use, although its gas is not subject to sanctions, only oil,” he told news source last month. “It is one of the countries that produces the most methane but this is benefiting nobody, while in the EU we need gas,” Borrell said.

Up for sale

THE Center Parcs chain of holiday villages has been put up for sale by its owners, the Canadian private equity firm Brookfield.

The company, which bought the business for approximately £2.4 billion (€2.77 billion) in 2015, expects to raise between £4 and £5 billion (€4.61 and €5.76 billion), the Financial Times said.

Center Parcs real estate was independently valued at £4.1 billion (€4.7 billion) in April and Brookfield has also spent £100 million (€115.19 million) on technology upgrades.

Revenues for the year ending April 21, 2022, reached £503.4 million (€571.9), with £245.6 million (€282.9) profits returning the company to the black following 20202021’s pandemic losses.

As is habitual with US technology multinationals who operate abroad, these figures do not reflect the company’s real business in this country.

Google Spain registers its sales in Ireland and only takes into account earnings from marketing and support services to Google Ireland and research and development services for Google LLC.

Bank offers

SPANISH banks continue to vie with each other to attract new customers.

Banco Santander, for instance, promotes online accounts by paying €50 for each recommendation resulting in a new customer whose salary is paid directly to the bank.

The new customer also receives €150 thanks to this offer which ends on June 12.

Another Santander offer, which continues until June 30, pays €150 to new customers who open an account and pay in a monthly salary of at least €600. This rises to €350 for salaries of more than €2,500.

SARAH CARDELL: Defended CMA’s opposal to MicrosoftActivision Blizzard merger.

VENEZUELA: Huge gas deposits will help to ease Europe’s energy crisis.

Photo credit: CC/British Government

Photo credit: Luis Noguera for PDVSA

DOW JONES

No break

SEAT plans to take on 900 temporary workers between June and September to ensure that production need not be affected during the holiday period. Above all, this should prevent the Martorell (Barcelona) factory from having to close in August and allow the plant to produce an additional 14,000 cars, principally the Cupra Fomentor model.

Going up

CURRYS increased its annual earnings outlook following better­than­anticipated sales across the UK after initially reducing its full­year prediction to £104 million (€120 million). The electrical goods retailer adjusted its forecast and now expects pre­tax profits of between £110 million (€126.8 million) and £120 million (€138 million) for the 12 months ending on April 29.

Royal Mail in red

ROYAL MAIL reported a £1 billion (€1.15 billion) loss for the year ending March 26.

Bosses blamed industrial action by employees and a failure to increase productivity during 12 months in which 10,000 jobs were cut.

International Distributions Services (IDS), Royal Mail’s owner, announced an overall loss of £748 million (€869 million) compared with a £577 million (€861 million) profit a

Home comforts

WORKING from the office should be employees’ default mode, according to the UK’s Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt.

Speaking on Wednesday May 17 to business leaders attending the British Chamber of Commerce conference in London, Hunt said that he believed working from home could stifle creativity.

He added that he felt firms were gradually reversing the shift to teleworking that began during the Covid ­

19 pandemic.

Despite the Chancellor’s conviction that employees would return to offices “unless they had a good reason not to,” flexibility was a top reason why employees accepted new jobs, post ­ Covid research confirmed.

In deciding between jobs with similar pay or benefits, the opportunity to work flexibly could become a deciding factor, investigators found.

Wind power

7

year earlier.

IDS said Royal Mail was in the red mainly due to strikes by “unionised staff” over pay and working conditions. This unrest ultimately led to the departure of Royal Mail’s chief executive Simon Thompson who resigned on May 12 after only two years in the post, although he will remain until October as IDS seeks a fourth chief executive in as many years.

Royal Mail’s owners also attributed the postal service’s losses to its “inability to deliver the in ­ year benefits of planned productivity improvements.”

Although the company has finally thrashed out a deal which the union agreed to put to its membership in April, Royal Mail has been affected by the consequences of a drop in demand for Covid test deliveries. There was also a dip in delivering online shopping, which had flourished during the pandemic.

ARDIAN, a leading private investment company, agreed to sell for an undisclosed sum its ASR Wind portfolio of 12 windfarms as well as a hybrid solar energy plant, to Naturgy, the Spanish renewable energy group. The windfarms, which are located in several regions across Spain and have 422MW of installed capacity, were all built between 2005 and 2012.

Boo-hoo!

ONLINE fast fashion retailer Boohoo.com plunged almost £91 million (€105 million) into the red as annual sales dived and the retailer had to cope with higher levels of returned products.

The label aimed at the 16 ­ 30 age group announced that sales fell 11 per cent to £1.8 billion (€2.1 billion) in the year ending on February 28.

POSTAL SERVICE: £1 billion (€1.15 billion) loss for last fiscal year.

BUSINESS EXTRA

All change

BRITISH American Tobacco’s finance director Tadeu Marroco took over immediately after the announcement of his appointment as new chief executive. Marroco, who has worked for the tobacco giant since 1992, replaces boss Jack Bowles, who stepped down after four years as CEO and 20 with the company.

Cloud cover

CAIXABANK and Google

Cloud signed an agreement to speed up the Catalan bank’s digital transformation. Under the deal the bank will use the cloud to boost data analysis technologies in the coming years while creating new products and services by personalising its commercial offer.

Worse off

BRITONS’ overall wealth fell to a 10­year low as a third had to dip into their savings over the last year, taking out an average of £3,500 (€4,033). More than half told LifeSearch insurance firm’s Health, Wealth and Happiness 2023 Index that they were worse off financially than last year.

Cheap labour

WOMEN residents born outside Spain account for 6 per cent of the population but occupy 160,000 ­ 44 per cent ­ of the 368,000 new jobs that were created over the last year. They earn an average €11,800 pre­tax, lower than the minimum wage and less than half the national average.

Course work

OVERHAULING apprenticeships would help to kickstart the economy, Tesco chief Ken Murphy said. Despite a huge increase in the number of courses equivalent to a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree between 2014 and 2022, courses equivalent to GCSEs had plummeted by 70 per cent, Murphy pointed out.

Negotiation needed

STELLANTIS, which manufactures Vauxhall and Fiat vehicles in the UK, called on the government to renegotiate Brexit rules.

“The UK must reconsider its trading arrangements with Europe,” Stellantis told a House of Commons enquiry.

Not doing so could mean closing some UK operations and endangering thousands of jobs, said the world’s fourth­biggest carmaker, which also produces Citroën and Peugeot vehicles.

Two years ago, Stellantis declared that the future of its plants in Ellesmere Port and Luton were assured, but it now warns that it can no longer meet Brexit trade deal requirements.

These stipulate that 45 per cent of

the value of a vehicle’s components should be sourced in the UK or the EU by 2024, but the manufacturer can no

Aussie takeover

longer comply with these conditions, owing to an increase in the cost of the raw materials used for electric car batteries.

This means the electric vans made at the Ellesmere Port plant will face 10 per cent tariffs when exported to mainland Europe in 2024 as they will have too few locally­sourced parts.

This would put the future of the plant in question, the company said.

Ellesmere Port, where electric vehicle production is due to start later this year, provides jobs for 1,000 workers, while another 1,200 make Vauxhall and Fiat vans in Luton.

Thousands more work in UK businesses dependent on the plants.

Rafa hits a winner

TENNIS legend Rafael Nadal is as successful off the court as on it.

The Mallorca ­ born sportsman’s investments in several companies made an €11.4 million profit ­ a 104 per cent increase ­ in 2021 via his Aspemir company, according to accounts submitted to Spain’s Registro Mercantil, equivalent to the UK’s Companies House.

Nadal owns, or has invested in, companies in the sports, real estate, hotels, renewable energy and brokerage sectors. He is involved in Netflix series like Soy Georgina and La Marquesa through Mabel Capital, in which he has a 33.3 per cent holding.

This company has also built luxury apartments in Madrid and owns restaurants in Madrid, Ibiza and Valencia as well as six other cities outside Spain, together with projects in the Costa del Sol, Portugal and California.

The holding company’s turnover improved by 15 per cent to €20.75 million, of which €12.6 million originated outside Spain.

The 2021 result also profited from currency fluctuations to the tune of €3.3 million.

THE GMB union wants the government to intervene if Australian banking group Macquarie gains control of a vital section of the UK’s gas grid.

The Macquarie Asset Management­British Columbia Investment Management Corporation consortium acquired 60 per cent of the equity in National Grid’s gas transmission and meter business in a £7.5 billion (€8.6 billion) deal last January. This covers 4,000 miles (6,437 kilometres) of gas pipes.

According to a UK news source, a clause in the deal allows the consortium first refusal to buy the remaining 40 per cent later this year.

Digi digs in

Aspemir’s principal holding is the Centre Esportiu Manacor, which runs the facilities and accommodation linked to the Rafa Nadal Academy. Centre Esportiu Manacor had a turnover of €19.7 million, a 40.9 per cent year­on­year increase, in 2021, and showed a profit of €2.3 million.

Taxed to death

SIR JIM RATCLIFFE, one of Britain’s richest men, warned that the UK government’s windfall tax could destroy the North Sea’s oil and gas industry.

“Taxes are so high that profits no longer fund future investments,” the Ineos chemicals group founder told a UK news

source.

The government resorted to ‘primitive politics’ when Rishi Sunak, who was Chancellor at the time, put an extra 25 per cent tax on industry profits following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This was later raised to 35 per cent by Jeremy Hunt, who took over as Chancellor.

Ratcliffe argued that the levy ­ in effect a 75 per cent tax on North Sea profits which helps to fund government support schemes for household fuel bills ­ jeopardised the energy industry. No thought was given to the long­term consequences of this “tax it to death” concept he said.

Knotty Banco Popular tangle

THE European Central Bank (ECB) had never expressed concerns about the situation of the defunct Banco Popular.

José María Sanz Olmeda, a PwC audit partner who examined the Banco Popular books between 2009 and 2015, told an investigating National High Court judge that he detected “no anomalies” during this period. Meanwhile, the ECB decided on June 6, 2017 that Banco Popular was “failing or likely to fail” and noti­

fied the Single Resolution Board. According to the financial daily, Cinco Dias, legal sources familiar with the proceedings maintained that this was one of the cases “most relevant testimonies.”

This, they say, could clarify contradictions in various reports from expert witnesses regarding whether or not the Banco Popular should have reflected losses before the 2016 capital increase of more than €2.5 billion.

SPAIN’S mobile phone operators announced their first quarter accounts in a period that was dominated by fierce competition from the low­cost segment.

Romania ­ based Digi again demonstrated its strength compared with the bigger companies’ modest growth while the sector is at fever pitch owing to the MasMovil­Orange merger and the Vodafone crisis.

Digi, meanwhile, increased its earnings by 29.4 per cent to €143.3 million, owing to its aggressively low tariffs. At the same time, the company’s commercial aggressiveness also reduced the average spend per client by 4.1 per cent to €9.3.

Kid glove treatment

NEW regulations coming into force on July 31 will ensure that people receive better treatment from companies providing them with financial products.

Banks, building societies, insurers, investment firms and other businesses have been warned to prepare for one of the UK’s biggest­ever consumer­finance upheavals. The Financial Conduct Authority’s new regime will see the introduction of the ‘consumer duty’, which sets higher and clearer standards of protection, while explicitly requiring companies to put customers’ needs first.

The FCA want the initiative to produce ‘good outcomes’ for consumers, with reduced call­waiting times and an end to rip­off fees.

FIAT VANS: Manufactured by Stellantis in Luton.

RAFAEL NADAL: Savvy businessman as well as a tennis champion.

Photo credit: Flickr/Tanya Cicconte

TRULY don’t quite know where to start this week. So much has occurred I would need a couple of pages to achieve some kind of completion.

It actually started out with a number of letters (some obviously not for publication) thanking me for using subject matter that would simply not be allowed in the woke infested PC society that has now impregnated the UK.

One missive from a friend informed me that were my views publicised in a UK national I could be expecting a ‘knock on the door’­ What! Some PC authority knocking on my door presumably to threaten me for doing nothing more than applying my totally lawful freedom of speech?

Don’t scoff; I’m utterly convinced that if Starmer’s lot finishes up in Downing Street there will undoubtedly be an Orwellian department created to impose this devious control. The diversity dealers are already ensconced among the media hierarchy and they are not even in power yet.

The casting and presentation of TV programmes has now gone completely off the non­equality scale. Mixed mar­

Where to start

riage contestants are now being featured in a totally disproportionate number of quiz shows.

These special quizzers must be extremely difficult to find as the majority only actually make up 0.2 per cent of the population. Presentations such as ‘Rip Off Britain and ‘Front Line Fightback’ which are aimed at the seedier side of the UK, predominately feature the white populace appearing as investigators, victims and of course perpetrators.

Programmes displaying run down living accommodation and poorly treated tenants mainly depict nonwhite or immigrant residents. ‘Homes under the Hammer’ now primarily promotes property investors of non UK descent. If a news subject is considered ‘racist and possibly undermines black residents, it is given minimum coverage or ignored altogether.

This was exampled this week by the disgraceful attack on a fairly elderly teacher by a young black student after the teacher had confiscated his phone. Not only was he unassisted by any member of the now utterly brainwashed teenage youngsters that were

MASK SHAMING OUR VIEW

present, but the attack was actually filmed by a number of his classmates. Naturally none of this was featured on the main news media, but a considerable number of disgruntled observations were prominent on social outlets.

Recently I was informed from a very highly placed source that large numbers of immigrant staff employed by hospitals are so low in understanding that they are actually affecting the running of many establishments. As bosses are unable to sack any at the risk of being accused of racism (or the knock on the door!) they are promoting them to different departments, (bit like the civil service!) which is resulting in whole organisations teetering on the brink of disaster.

If you honestly don’t consider the UK in the grip of a conspiracy to reshape the whole of British society, then I truly believe that these faceless people will one day take over the whole shebang. Assuming they haven’t already done so.

AS fewer people are required to wear masks in public places, so at least one Human Resources Department has come up with new advice for employers as how best to deal with those who still want to wear a mask for a variety of reasons.

Employees are to be advised that they should be tolerant of those continuing to wear masks, as to make fun of them or comment about their decision is an example of what is now termed mask shaming!

Indeed, they go as far as to insist that anyone who needs to speak to someone who is wearing a mask should put their own mask on as a mark of respect and understanding.

Whilst it is difficult to see what anyone could gain from teasing or criticising someone who wants to continue to wear a mask, it seems surprising that HR advisors should actually go into print to require this and at least one entity requires individual staff members to confirm in writing that they will comply with the instruction.

There is no doubt that HR guidance in many areas is very useful, especially as far as bullying in the workplace is concerned, but nowadays it almost seems that some of these apparent professionals are creating rules that really aren’t needed just to justify their position.

Interestingly, during times of global depression, HR advisors aren’t particularly needed as staff are generally anxious to keep their jobs or management who can’t see the point of employing them but in times of financial growth, with staff more mobile and difficult to retain, a good HR department is useful for both sides.

The healthiest rest comes to Estepona

MALAGA ­ based company MiColchón plans to open a new rest centre in July, firmly placing it as the leader and largest distributor of rest equipment across the Costa del Sol.

Continuing its expansion strategy in Andalucia, MiColchón will open in a new destination this summer: Estepona. The Malaga firm cements its leading position in the sector, now covering the entire Costa del Sol. MiColchón Estepona will be the 11th store for the group and will be located on Calle Fahrenheit on the industrial estate of Estepona.

MiColchón Estepona will have an incredible 300 m2 showroom dedicated mainly to rest, with the best beds and equipment in Europe and featuring the most recognised international brands such as Tempur, Sealy, Flex, Nessen, Relax, Hukla Germany and Emma.

In addition, customers can enjoy the largest variety of chairs and armchairs of the highest quality and European manufacture. This includes the prestigious Stressless brand ­ the best relax armchairs from Norway ­ and the comfort­

able Nessen armchairs which are fully customisable and exclusive to MiColchón, made with the best stain­resistant fabrics and the best Italian leather, featuring motorised relax systems such as the new ‘Zero Gravity’ mode that im­

proves blood circulation.

From this July, the people of Estepona will be able to enjoy personalised advice on the healthiest and most restorative rest provided through Mattressology®, MiColchón’s exclusive business phi­

losophy comprised of a specialist team that provides personalised advice on how to get the best rest. Whatever your back ailment, at MiColchón you will find the ideal sleeping equipment for you and your loved ones.

The Malaga company has more than 40 years of experience and is a leader in its sector, achieving record business figures in the last year with 25,000 mattresses sold, more than 5,000 sofas and armchairs, and a track record of more than 500,000 satisfied customers. Their excellent service and range of products speak for themselves, with zero complaints and thousands of positive reviews.

MiColchón Estepona will be offering special opening prices and its usual services and guarantees: transport, assembly and removal of used products for FREE and products at the best prices.

To find out more about the opening of MiColchón Estepona you can follow MiColchón on social networks: Facebook: micolchon - Instagram: @micolchon_spain - YouTube: @micolchonspain9357 - Website: www.micolchon.com

MICOLCHÓN: The Malaga company has more than 40 years of experience and is a leader in its sector.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROCKY!

membered best about the show he shared two memorable events:

‘THE Rocky Horror Show’, the longest continuous run of a contemporary musical anywhere in the world ­ its influence seen everywhere from Halloween costumes to references in movies, TV shows and books ­ is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary. Catch the sell­out special anniversary production at London’s Peacock Theatre!

Now, all my books are available in ebook/Apple Book/paperback and audiobook formats. But this wasn’t always so. Imagine my surprise when a well­known, celebrated British actor visiting Spain ­ Rayner Bourton, who in fact created the role of ‘Rocky’ in the original London productioncontacted me. He enjoyed reading my EWN column ­ especially my novels ­ and would I like him to record them as audiobooks?

With numerous TV/movie credits to his name, Rayner’s produced all my psychological suspense crime thrillers, each one expertly narrated with authentic accents. Listen yourself to free audio samples on Amazon/Audible of ‘Death in Windermere’ etc (my latest, ‘The Couple across the Street’, will soon be

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available too!). Additionally, Rayner does considerable ‘voice over’ work, ‘voicing’ The Unseen Elder in ‘Witcher 3’, one of the world’s best­selling computer games.

When I recently asked Rayner what he re­

“After the first night performance at The Royal Court Theatre Upstairs the British Hollywood actor Vincent Price, who had appeared in countless horror movies and was in the audience, popped his head around the dressing room door and said in his unmistakable voice: “Thank you all very much” and disappeared as quickly as he arrived. He was the first of what would become a nightly procession of ‘star’ names to pop their heads around the dressing room door to offer congratulations and thanks for a truly unique theatrical experience.”

“While performing ‘Touch A Touch Me’ at the Theatre Upstairs (where our actual stage depth was less than three metres between the first row of the audience and the screen hiding the band), I was spinning around and around while holding Julie Covington (the original Janet) at arm’s length with her head inches from the floor while we were both singing the chorus when, over the music, I heard an enormous crack. I’d slightly got out of position and Julie’s head hit a concrete pillar, which was hidden by the screen. Julie just carried on singing and finished the perfor­

mance. The next day one side of her face was black and blue that make­up couldn’t disguise. My admiration for her professionalism and talent was and, remains, immense.”

Catch all Rayner’s unique, first­hand memories in his own audiobook/memoir: ‘The Rocky Horror Show: As I Remember It’.

One of the most enduring aspects of ‘Rocky’ is its music. The show’s score, composed by Richard O’Brien, features catchy, upbeat tunes instantly recognisable to fans. Songs like ‘Time Warp’, ‘Sweet Transvestite’ and ‘Science Fiction/Double Feature’ have become iconic in their own right and often performed at concerts and karaoke events. The show’s soundtrack has sold millions of copies worldwide and continues to be immensely popular with new generations of fans.

In brief, ‘Rocky’ has lasted because the music, lyrics and concepts are unique and the whole work was inspired by genius.

Nora Johnson’s 12 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers (www.no ra­johnson.net) all available online including eBooks (€0.99; £0.99), Apple Books, audiobooks, paperbacks at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

Solo Interior: It’s all in the details

about creating warm and inviting spaces that suit clients’ tastes and lifestyles. She has spent the past 20 years working as a decorator, visual merchandiser, and interior stylist in both retail and for private clients. Whatever your style or budget, Suz and her team can help bring your interior dreams to life by creating spaces to relax, unwind, entertain, and find a sense of contentment.

SOLO INTERIOR: The team will bring your dreams and ideas to life.

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Nora

NORA’S LATEST THRILLER.

Nora is the author of popular psychological suspense and crime thrillers and a freelance journalist.

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

CHINA HOME (China Home de Cancelada) in Estepona stocks a massive 38 aisles filled with thousands of household goods at a great price. Decorate your home and garden, host the best parties and celebrations, store all of your household items, carry out house repairs, and entertain your kidswith everything you need in one amazing superstore!

You will find a huge range of products to make your house into a cosy and personalised home including textiles such as blankets, throws and towels, rugs, colourful cushions, bedding, curtains, bathroom products, candles, paint, decorations, prints for your walls, and even beds and products for your pets.

Looking for storage solutions for your home or food items? China Home stocks all kinds of products to store clothes and essential items, including hooks for coats, shoe racks, clothes storage items, multipurpose trays to organise your toiletries and beauty products, plastic trunks for children’s toys, and a

China Home Estepona: Everything you need for your home and more

huge range of boxes for the fridge and kitchen.

The assorted items at China Home can solve any issue you have in your property. Their hardware section stocks a range of essential items including tools, plumbing, paint, cleaning products, household appliances, plastic products, and electronics ­ so you can fix and repair anything in your home without having to call a handyman.

Decorate your garden with China Home’s range of outdoor products

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such as deckchair cushions, decorative pots for your plants, flowers, and hundreds of other items to make your garden a beautiful space to enjoy the Mediterranean sun!

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Blame Hemingway

LINDA HALL

ERNEST HEMINGWAY has a lot to answer for, or at least as regards people of a certain age who visited, or went to live in, Spain.

Perhaps we can attach a morsel of blame to Federico García Lorca’s Lament for the bullfighter Ignacio Sánchez Mejías, but he was a Spanish person writing about someone and something he was familiar with. On the other hand, I’m not convinced that Lorca got the women right in the House of Bernarda Alba, but that’s a different matter.

I’m talking about bullfighting of course, and because I’d read Death in the Afternoon and the Sun Also Rises I’m now ashamed to say that when I first lived here, I went to a number of bullfights.

After all, if you’d read your Hemingway, you knew that’s what you were supposed to do when you were in Spain.

What’s more, if I were still an aficionada, I could proudly say that I’d

seen some of the best bullfighters of the day and had gone to Antonio Ordoñez’s last corrida. Not that he bore much resemblance by then to the handsome man portrayed in a nowiconic photo taken with Hemingway.

What do I remember about the bullfights I saw? Boredom most of the time, although sometimes a wave of enthusiasm would ripple through the plaza when the bullfighter managed to string together a series of passes.

Apart from that it was butchery, but not as skilled as the butchery you’d find in a slaughterhouse.

Instead, you were subjected to a depressing exhibition by a man dressed in pink stockings, tight satin pants and sequins who was trying ­ usually ineptly and often repeatedly ­ to plunge a sword into a panting, half ­ dead animal.

No doubt bravery was involved, but although it was death in the afternoon it was a slow death that had nothing glamorous or noble about it.

All of which makes me very grateful that football and not bullfighting is now Spain’s preferred national spectacle.

CHINA HOME: The best place to get all of your household essentials, decorative items, seasonal products and hardware.

Slow down

EXPERTS in the Netherlands and Japan have linked fast eating with weight gain.

Researchers at Wageningen University in Holland concluded that volunteers ate more pasta far quicker when it was soft and not al dente.

Receptors in the stomach which respond to being stretched by food, and hormones which tell the brain that partially­digested food has reached the small intestine, take between 15 to 20 minutes to activate.

Fast eating delays this process, as another study of more than 3,000 men and women in Japan confirmed. Those who ate quickly, continued until they felt full, were three times more likely to be overweight than those who ate slowly, investigators said.

Menopause game changer

Linda Hall

A NEW non­hormonal drug will revolutionise menopause treatments.

The drug, fezolinetant, which acts directly on the brain to prevent hot flushes, was licensed in the US earlier this month and could be prescribed in the UK by the end of this year.

Made by Astellas Pharma, the medication could transform the misery that hot flushes cause for hundreds of thousands of women who are unable ­ or do not want ­ to use hormone replacement drugs (HRT).

“This is a completely blockbuster drug,” declared Prof Waljit Dhillo, an en ­

docrinologist at Imperial College London who headed 2017 trials which opened the door for developing the drug.

SEVERAL UK cancer charities want to see VAT removed from sunscreen.

This is classed as a cosmetic product, incurring a 20 per cent tax which adds an average £1.50 (€1.72) to the cost.

High­factor sunscreen should be free of VAT, the charities said. The cost of living crisis meant there are items which people now think twice about buying, and a survey by Melanoma Fo­

Sleep easy

A GOOD night’s sleep could help the elderly ward off memory loss caused by Alzheimer’s.

The results of US research published in the Biomed Central Medicine journal, showed that people with signs of dementia detected via brain scans rather than by their symptoms, could be protected with good­quality, deep sleep.

The news coincided with UK research which examined how boosting sleep quality could assist in improving the symptoms of people diagnosed with the disease.

All involved emphasised that sleep quality could be altered in contrast to the other factors that contributed to dementia, including age.

“It’s like a switch, the flushes go away in a day or two,” he told the UK media. “It’s unbelievable how well these drugs work.”

Sunscreen plea

cus found that 50 per cent believed sunscreen was too expensive.

Most skin cancers are caused by skin damage, the charity said, but few people realised that getting sunburnt just once every two years could triple the risk of skin cancer.

Best not

ALWAYS resist the temptation to spray perfume on your hair, beauty experts say.

If you do this each day, the high alcohol content will dry your hair, which is the last thing you want if you tend to have split ends.

Anybody with a sensi­

tive scalp should also avoid spritzing with perfume, which can irritate and dry out the delicate skin on your scalp, producing itching and flaking.

Use a specific hair mist instead, which will contain less alcohol and is better for hair health.

HOT FLUSHES: Revolutionary non-hormonal treatment.

Are you sitting comfortably?

Linda Hall NUMEROUS studies link poor health to a sedentary lifestyle.

As long ago as the 1950s a study found that bus drivers were twice as likely to have heart attacks as bus­conductors.

Since then, research has consistently tied prolonged sitting to multiple ailments, not least because this immobilises some of the body’s largest muscles, putting it into standby mode.

When sitting for long enough, the metabolism will slow, constricting circulation and affecting the ability to deal with glucose.

If sitting is unavoidable at work, keeping your computer screen at eye level and your feet flat on the floor will help, allowing you to keep your spine and hips in less painful positions. The simplest way to make a noticeable difference, though, is to get up every 15, 30 or 60 minutes.

Avocado advocacy

AVOCADOS are important because they are rich in nutrients, including healthy fats and fibre that are absent from many people’s diets.

They contain anti­inflam matory and antioxidant compounds that can help to reduce the risk of heart disease risk. They bring with them an alphabet of vitamins: Vitamin B1, B2, B3 and B6, as well as Vitamin B9 (folate) Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E and Vitamin K.

All in the mind

NEW research at University College London (UCL) suggested it could be true that, as many women claim, they have more difficulty in losing weight and not putting it on again.

Investigators compared the brain scans of men and women aged between 18 ­ 55 with the questionnaires they’d completed.

They found that overweight women had changes in brain connectivity which apparently made them more susceptible to the sight, smell and taste of ultra ­ processed foods (UPFs).

This then exposed them to a greater possibility of developing cravings and food addiction.

The UCL concluded that women who are trying to lose weight, or keep it off after having lost it, are likely to need more support in avoiding UPFs.

AVOCADOS: Rich in vital vitamins

Half an avocado also contains 10 per cent of the recommended daily amount of potassium, which can help to protect against hypertension and stroke.

Despite disagreement as to whether they are a fruit or a vegetable, avocados (Persea americana) are actually berries and belong to the Lauraceae plant family, which includes the cinnamon tree.

Practical advice

CONTROVERSY continues to surround the safety of UV nail dryers.

An article published last January by scientists from the University of San Diego announced that exposure to the dryers’ ultraviolet light can cause mutations in DNA and damage to cells.

Professional manicurists questioned their claims that lamps used to harden shellac lacquer and gel nails are a skin cancer risk, as hands are exposed for a total of around three minutes once or twice a month.

As warnings continue to surface since the beginning of the year, one Spanish manicurist offered some practical advice.

“If you’re really worried, use some protection ­ 50 sunscreen beforehand,” she suggested.

Photo credit: Pixabay/StockSnap

SEDENTARY LIFESTYLE: Linked to multiple ailments.

Wonderful water

HEALTH gurus have always recommend drinking eight glasses of water each day to ensure that the body is hydrated.

But dozens of studies also point to the importance of drinking water when trying to shift extra kilos.

The more hydrated you are, the easier your body will find it to complete activities that range from thinking to burning fat, scientists have found.

Drinking water can boost the rate at which your body burns calories, it increases motivation and glassful before a meal will help to suppress the appetite, they said.

Keep busy

REGULAR exercise ­ and that includes gardening and cleaning, together with sports ­ could lessen the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease in women.

Those who exercised most had a 25 per cent lower rate of contracting the disease when compared to those who exercised the least, Dr Alexis Elbaz from the Inserm research centre in Paris found.

“Exercise is a low­cost way of improving health overall, and our study sought to determine if it could be linked to a reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease,” Dr Albaz said.

“Our results have now provided evidence that exercise programmes could help to prevent it.”

Retrain a sweet tooth

SUBSTITUTING sugar with sweeteners does not assist weight loss, according to the latest World Health Organisation (WHO) findings.

Using them could actually cause health problems, the WHO warned.

Their advice suggested that people should not turn to sweeteners like aspartame ­ routinely used in fizzy diet drinks ­ if they wanted to lose weight or prevent diet ­ related diseases such as type 2 diabetes.

Other popular sweeteners that were cited included saccharin and stevia, generally regarded as a healthier option.

Too tired

A YOUGOV poll of 2,086 adults in the UK highlighted the obstacles that people face when aspiring to adopt, and stick to, healthy habits.

Many who wanted to exercise more, eat more wisely and lead a healthier lifestyle faced the problem of feeling too tired.

The YouGov survey found that tiredness stopped 35 per cent of people from making the changes to their diet and physical activity levels that would help them close the divide between good intentions and definite action.

Instead, they should consider eating foods with naturally occurring sugars, like fresh fruit, or switch to unsweetened foods and drinks.

The WHO based the new

Cut it out

CAN a glass of wine or a beer or two affect a fitness routine?

Yes, personal trainer Josh Davies believes.

“Since going sober two years ago, my training performance, energy levels and mental clarity skyrocketed,” he told an interviewer recently.

Alcohol impacts fitness because it causes dehydration:

“We all know the importance of being hydrated when it comes to exercise,” he said.

“Secondly, alcohol has a huge effect on the quality of your sleep, preventing the body from getting into deep sleep, the part that helps with recovery and restoration,” he added.

guidelines on a systematic review of evidence which concluded that non­ sugar sweeteners did not confer any long ­ term benefits in reducing body fat in adults or children.

Heachache help

GINGER is surprisingly successful as a natural remedy for migraines.

A study involving 100 adults gave them either 250 milligrammes of ginger or a triptan ­ routinely used to treat migraine ­ at the first sign of one of the pounding headaches.

Sixty ­ four per cent of those who took ginger reported a 90 per cent or better reduction of their symptoms after 120 minutes, compared with 70 per cent taking triptan.

Ginger was more or less as effective as the triptan when

treating migraine but clearly outperformed the conventional medication as it produced none of its common side effects of dizziness, fatigue or a dry mouth.

“And if you’re not getting adequate amounts of this type of sleep, you won’t recover between sessions and will be unable to perform when working out,” he warned.

WHO ADVICE: Eat foods with naturally occurring sugars.

39% of adults in the world are overweight.

Dear Leapy LETTERS

Everything you said is absolutely true. Yes, you are totally free to say what you believe to be the case, but at what cost? If you said this in Britain your ability to continue earning a living would be made almost impossible. The direction Britain is heading is very frightening.

Keep up the fight.

Justice

Phillip Walker

Having happily lived in Spain since 2003 my wife suddenly and unexpectedly passed away a little over a year ago.

I need to return to the UK to be close to family but have to realise the equity from the house sale.

This is proving to be a huge problem despite numerous viewings.

The problem is three noisy dogs next door, when would­be buyers hear the dogs they immediately write the property off.

I have spoken to the neighbours on several occasions but they choose not to take action.

Can you please help me with this health threatening predicament.

Paul Greswolde

Good morning Lee

I know you often get flack for your printed views. I would like you to know that I look forward to Thursdays to hear your latest rant. I moved to Mallorca in 1997 and I did meet you a couple of times and have seen you perform several more.

I think it’s a pity you never moved in to politics. You have some great ideas.

Greetings from the Spanish Aragonés Mountains.

Bruce

Mrs Feelgood

Something seriously amiss within the BBC. All part of the conspiracy I sometimes mention. Onward all.

With thanks

Thank you very much indeed, again, for including our article, about Celebrating the Coronation, in last week’s EWN!

It was good of you to have included our article and is much appreciated.

Thank you for your continuing support, also much appreciated.

From a very soggy Moraira.

Warmest regards.

James Bond

who only payed him once. After Roger Moore I gave up, they just didn’t have the authenticity.

Naimah Yianni

Intruder arrested

How can you get arrested when you are on public property, not on private property? you can go and stand in any street anywhere surely? As long as you are not committing a crime then how can you be arrested? No sympathy for these idiots as it goes.

Life of Brian

Symbolic of his struggle against reality. Absolutely says it all. What is going on in our country. Now we have a theatre that wants to put on a play for a black audience, no whites allowed. God help us all and I am not religious.

John Little

Good evening,

It is wonderful to have our own regional newspaper ­ thank you. But, it would be nice to have the two motoring pages which you print in the Costa Blanca South edition.

Best regards Annie Busch

Dog attacks

Far too much of this is going on throughout the UK and Europe. Maltreated, fighting dogs that turn on their owners. I have no sympathy for the victim, only regret that the animal had to be destroyed. From my point of view, a huge crackdown on the breeders/owners of fighting dogs is long overdue.

Bob Saunders

Brexit fail

It must be something in the water, or the food, or the air. Or all three, to produce such brain­dead people. Sadly, though, Brexit was never about making the public more prosperous, only to bring more prosperity to a chosen few. And that doesn’t even appear to have been successful ­ yet.

Stephen Ashley

War on Wagner

Max, Aircrew Association

That makes it sound like Sean Connery only played Bond once, but it was George Lazenby

I as well as my guys were actually digesting the good ideas from your website then at once I had a terrible feeling I never expressed respect to you for those secrets. The men ended up for that reason warmed to read them and have really been enjoying them. Appreciation for actually being quite kind as well as for making a decision on certain amazing subject matter most people are really wanting to be informed on. My sincere regret for not expressing gratitude to you earlier.

Cornwell

LAST week it rained, a lot.

On the Thursday morning my daughter and her family were driving up a hill and were hit by a car coming down way too fast to allow for the greasy, slippery roads. Out of control, the car hit the back side of their vehicle where the babies were sitting. No words can relay what went through my daughter’s mind as she leapt out of the car without a second thought to her own safety to check on them.

Their position was precarious enough whilst they dealt with the situation when three other cars, one after the other likewise swerved

MARBELLA MOMENTS

BY NICOLE KING

out of control, at the same bend, within no more than 10 minutes.

My daughter called the police to inform them of what was happening and to suggest they put up warning signs for the cars descending that road, to put sand on the road, something, anything to address the obvious black spot.

“There’s nothing we can do” they said “They’re all idiots,” “they drive like idiots;

The rain in Spain

can’t they see it’s raining?”

That very afternoon I too had to call out the Local Police; I too was hit by a car.

It was still pouring when I set off to record an event. I stopped at the zebra crossing just as you come off the roundabout on the A397 Ronda Road to take the A7 towards Estepona. Two children started to make their way across when suddenly I felt myself shunted forwards with a surprising amount of force. I literally didn’t know what hit me.

The van behind me hadn’t seen me or the crossing, let alone the children that could have perished there and then if they’d have been even a few steps further forward. Just the thought of what could have happened had me catatonic.

I only called the police be­

EXPAT RADIO WITH JOHN SMITH

JOHN is an editorial consultant with the Euro Weekly News (EWN) and it is good to have collaboration with Expat Radio and EWN John will be a regular contributor and will fill us in on what is happening around Spain and some wider stories.

John explains how the seven weekly editions of the Euro Weekly are organised, with the first pages of each edition focusing on relatively local news and other sections of the paper looking at wider Spanish news and UK and international news. Over the years John has written for almost every section and now pulls together the content for all the editions.

John shares with us his special insight into Gibraltar with the thousands of people who travel daily over the border to work, a bit of history about the Jewish community on ‘the Rock’, its strategic position at the opening to the Mediterranean Sea, and the changes in ownership over the centuries.

John picks up on some of the recent stories including the group of Irish paramedics who saved the life of a motorcyclist on their way back to the airport. John also warns us of the possible airline strike that is on the cards in the first full year of getting back to

normal, the fire season in Andalucia being brought forward by two weeks and the story of the €800 cup of coffee which you have to order a week in advance. Bargain Loving Brits in the Sun are also looking for participants for their new season.

The full interview is available on YouTube

cause the other driver was French and had no local paperwork and I needed to have proof of the incident for my insurance. The police were great and even hung around until the tow­truck

arrived. I mentioned that my daughter had also had an incident that morning and he replied “they’re idiots, the lot of them. Can’t they see it’s raining?” He also mentioned that rainy days were

amongst the worst for them to work and the busiest, precisely due to all the idiots that don’t adapt how they drive to suit the understandable adverse conditions.

We already negotiate very hazardous roads with incongruous systems in this country, such as zebra crossings placed immediately off roundabouts and main roads. Those of us who live here know how heavy rain usually means everything floods and mayhem reigns (excuse the pun). Add to this the many international drivers doing the craziest of things like swerving across the road to park or re­entering the main road from the exit they almost took.

The only thing left to add is: the forecast for the next few days is rain…

Be safe.

Working to find a solution

THE British Benevolent Fund was founded over a century ago to provide financial help for those Britons in extreme difficulties and with no other resource.

For over 100 years the BBF has sought to help people with nowhere to turn ­ many times exasperated by ill health.

We presently have a case of a British family in dire straits. The father, in his 40s, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer late last year and has been unable to work. The mother, distraught is trying to keep everything together ­ helping him get through the day as well as their three young children.

The father was the only bread winner and although self­employed was behind on his social security payments and has been battling to get his full entitlement ­ which he can only do once his arrears have been settled.

In the meantime, the family have been applying for

other state support, but it doesn’t cover the bills ­ all of which are now in arrears.

The family are in a terrible situation where day to day family life has been ruptured by the lack of income, not to mention the awful diagnosis and medical situation that has taken over their lives.

Now the regular doctors’ appointments, tests and rounds of treatment are their weekly lives.

Working with partner charities such as those on the embassy supported www.supportinspain.info, the BBF is desperately looking for a longer­term solution. If his treatment is successful, it is hoped that he will be able to return to work ­ and if not ­ then planning should be in place for

the worst.

The BBF is clearing the utility bills and granted a subsistence amount so that basic necessities can be provided, and the family can keep their heads above water. In addition, money for the frequent round trip to the hospital and of course for the children.

But it’s a not a solution and it’s not enough ­ we are working to find a solution with the landlord to see if something can be done ­ and in the meantime our hopes and prayers for a recovery.

If you would like to help with a donation for this and so many other cases that we have at this time ­ please visit www.britishbenevolent fund.org to see how you can help. Thank you on behalf of all ­ Olaf Clayton, Chair BBF.

Drive with caution, please.

John is Editorial Consultant at EWN.

Olaf Clayton of BBF.

DAVID WORBOYS THINKING ALOUD

I HAVE just heard of yet another tragic mass shooting in Texas; this time eight people gunned to their deaths in a shopping centre in Dallas. This is the city where President Kennedy was assassinated 60 years ago. And yet, the gun lobby enjoys majority support, nowhere more than in this gun­toting state. Explaining to Texans that universal gun ownership equals innocent deaths is like trying to teach a giraffe to play basketball.

An American acquaintance told me that there are proposals in some states to monitor and discourage jokes about Texans. If this is true then political correctness is alive and flourishing.

Jokes have abounded about other groups of people ­ often those of neighbouring nationalities. They have been directed against Dutch, Norwegians and Scots (for perceived meanness) and Americans, Irish, Poles and East Silesians (for alleged stupidity). And, of course, the Texans.

NO MORE JOKES ABOUT TEXANS?

the evolution and the mutilation of a language. The British have amusing expressions such as “Everton are pants” and “Johnson is toast”. The misuse of a word or the invention of a new one is another matter. A loo or lavatory is not a ‘bathroom’ or ‘restroom’. ‘He sucks’ should not mean he’s unpleasant. ‘Woke’ should not mean socially aware. ‘And stuff’ should not mean etcetera. ‘Cool’ should not mean impressive.

The foreman on a building site in Texas shouted “Hey Chip! Bring me a wheelbarrow.” Five minutes later Chip returned, wheeling a large wheelbarrow with a smaller one inside it. “Chip! I asked for one wheelbarrow, not two.” “Well, did you expect I was gonna carry the darn thing?” OK; this may or may not have happened.

However, I have personally met a Texan who believed that Jesus Christ was an American, and I know he wasn’t joking. Surveys

have shown that a disturbing number of Americans think that both Jesus Christ and Christopher Columbus were Americans. And then we had the reaction to Corona virus. In Texas there was a dramatic drop in the sale of Corona Mexican beer for fear that it would pass on the virus. But we have learned so much from our American friends, as we adopt their culture ­ not just by murdering people in schools. We eat hamburgers, drink beer from

bottles, watch American football, become obese, hold hot gospel church services and address our friends as “you guys”.

We choose an American slavery song for England’s rugby world cup theme (‘Swing low, sweet chariot’). In 1996 Leeds rugby team was renamed Leeds Rhinos in deference to American football teams such as Chicago Bulls. And the once­stoic British now weep during television interviews.

There is a difference between

Nevertheless, most of the ‘progress’ in recent years has been in technology. Through computers, smart phones, numerous information and communication platforms and space research, we can achieve so much without the intervention of humans. Here, Americans have been at the forefront.

For more from our columnists please scan this QR Code

opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors

Hair today

EXPAND YOUR SPANISH

I WAS debating whether to call this Unisex because as far as hair ­ although not necessarily gender these days ­ is concerned, that’s how practically all hairdressing salons announce themselves.

Yes, that’s the way it goes chaps, if you want a haircut you’ll almost certainly need to get it done in the company of your female neighbours at a peluquería. As for a shave, that will have to be a DIY job at home.

Time was when Spanish men went to a barbero for a haircut and a shave too, but when barbers do exist they are usually tucked away in a side street, with a dwindling number of clients.

Therefore much of the following will be as applicable to men as women especially the young men I see when I go for my own hairdo (peinado), who are as likely as I am to be having streaks done.

A wash and blow­dry….. lavar y secar

I’d like a wash and blow­dry: quiero lavar y secar

I’d like to cut my hair…..quiero cortarme el pelo

I only want a trim…..quiero cortarme las puntas, nada más

I’d like a bob (okay, this won’t apply to many male readers)…..quiero una media melena

I’d like a lot of curls (nor, possibly, will this)…..quiero muchos rizos

I want it very short…..lo quiero muy corto

I want it chin ­ length/shoulderlength…..lo quiero hasta la barbilla/los hombros

I want it very straight…..lo quiero muy liso

I’d like a lot of volume…..quiero mucho volume/lo quiero muy hueco

I want/don’t want layers…..quiero/no quiero capas

I want/don’t want a fringe…..quiero/no quiero un flequillo

If you want to change the colour of your hair:

I’d like to dye my hair…..quiero teñirme el pelo

Or merely brighten it up

I’d like streaks…..quiero mechas

I’d like a colour rinse…..quiero un baño de color

To prevent temporary or permanent slipups you’ll be presented with a colour chart although, since we’re on the subject, remember that blonda is not a hair tone, but a type of lace.

David

Worboys’s

Texans are not afraid of guns but are terrified of catching a virus from Mexican beer.

BILL ANDERSON A PUBLIC SERVANT

THE Spanish Local elections take place on Sunday May 28, and as far as the International community is concerned it has been a poor response. In Mijas, I estimate that there are between 12,000 and 14,000 residents who were eligible to register to vote, and the final number confirmed by the voters’ roll is 2,031 registered.

It is what it is. I think now what is important is that those who have been registered to vote, do all they can do to turn up on the 28th.

I still hear that people don’t know who to vote for and ask me for recommendations. I’m never sure whether to laugh or cry, given that I am presenting in the elections. In the last four years as a councillor, I would estimate that around 70 per cent of my work has been with the UK community. Now, not everyone I have attempted to help is a resident. People with second homes here can have just as many problems to sort out as those who live here. But at the end of the day, they also pay their local taxes and are entitled to help when things go awry.

THE FINAL CURTAIN?

it does feel a bit strange not knowing what I will be doing one week from today. I know that this can happen in just about any job, but it is an odd feeling and on top of that knowing that your immediate future does not in any way lie in your own hands. I am in a very fortunate situation in that I have leave of absence from my university teaching job. I like it and if I have to return, it is not a hardship.

The final run up to the elections has been tense. Insults have started to fly, accusations and insinuations made about various candidates. I am not sure whether to be flattered or insulted that so far no one from any of the other parties has taken a dig at me.

Many people have been very kind and expressed that the lack of international support has been disappointing. I can put my hand on my heart and say that this is not about me, and whether I gain a seat or not.

My sadness is about the internationals who may lose the only direct representation they have ever had on the council. It has been four difficult years of trying to move things forward, and I

would hate to see things returning to how they were before.

Now, I am not being pessimistic here. In 2019, there were only around 3,000 international residents registered to vote, and less than 1,000 actually turned up at the polling stations so we could still get more people out there on the 28th than in the last elections.

This is my first experience of elections as a standing local politician and

There is also a debate going on about whether opposition councillors should receive a salary, albeit at 50 per cent of the full councillor’s salary. All I can say is that without this during the last four years, I would not have been able to dedicate my time to working for the International Community. I’m not a typical politician, don’t follow the accepted way of doing things and to be a bit corny ‘I did it my way’.

Top 10 places to retire to

IT has long been the dream of Britons approaching retirement age, to up­sticks and move somewhere warmer, like their favourite holiday destination.

Researchers at Retirement Solutions have discovered that although an expatriate lifestyle comes with its challenges, this doesn’t put them off the idea. So where is the best place for Britons to retire abroad?

No. 1. Spain

Spain came top of the list as the most sought­after destination to live, for British people looking to retire abroad.

“There’s plenty of places in Spain that are perfect for retirement, including Alicante which

sits on the Costa Blanca,” said a spokesperson for the company.

“The city has an excellent cost of living while also providing plenty of sunshine, with temperatures around 16 degrees in winter while reaching over 40 degrees in summer.”

With its large expatriate community, the Costa Blanca is the choice for many Britons deciding to live in resort towns such as Benidorm.

There are plenty of other options too with retired expats settling in the Costa del Sol, the Balearic Islands, and the Canary Islands.

Despite the fact that currently without a visa, non­EU citizens

can only stay in Spain for 90 out of every 180 days, this has led to many retired Brits spending the winter months in Spain and returning to the UK for the summer.

A surprising second on the list is Australia, but anyone interested needs to do their homework as the cost of living is generally higher than in the UK. Third on the list is Portugal, which also has a number of celebrity fans including Sir Cliff Richard, Princess Eugenie, and Madonna.

Rounding off the top 10 are (4) Thailand, (5) Canada, (6) France, (7) India, (8) New Zealand, (9) Italy and (10 Greece.

LOCAL ELECTIONS: The time has now come to vote as the elections take place on May 28.

ALICANTE: The city has an excellent cost of living while also providing plenty of sunshine.

PETS

Pet allergies

PETS can suffer from allergies just like you and me, especially dogs and cats. They tend to be determined by their genes and their breed but in the last 20 years, we have seen an increase in pet allergies. This increase is due to an increasingly artificial diet, and a polluted environment. The most common types of allergies in dogs and cats are atopic dermatitis, food allergy, and flea bite dermatitis.

If your dog is scratching more than usual and you notice redness in the folds of their skin, especially around their armpits and neck areas, their paws, and ears it is possible they have an allergy. They may also have conjunctivitis.

Cats tend to have more specific allergic reactions, it is also called Feline Cuta­

neous Atopic Syndrome. They can have respiratory complications like asthma, which is rare in dogs, and digestive or food atopic syndrome which basically means they have an intolerance to certain foods.

Some breeds of dogs are more likely to suffer from allergies like the French bulldog, the West Highland

Dog-sitter entertains Tilly

A DOG-SITTER is a companion as well as a pet minder to your pets. The most important thing to note is that they care for your pets in their own home. Tilly is a smart black Labrador who needs entertainment and challenge, not just physical exercise. Her dog­sitter knows she loves playing and they tease each other constantly. With the live­in dog­sitter her routine stays the same, and she is stimulated and entertained.

Find a dog­sitter to care for your pets at home and help to minimise any separation anxiety by keeping them where they feel at home.

If you’re planning a trip register now to find petsitters in time. Whether your trip is short or long, you’ll know that sometimes you must leave pets at home. Young and senior pets in particular benefit from staying at home, so they can follow their routines undisturbed. Join our pet and house­sitting network, and the sitters come for free!

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.

white terrier, the German shepherd, and the golden retriever.

If you suspect your pet has an allergy their vet can help you determine if they do and then take steps to find the cause. They will then look for a treatment that can ease the symptoms like a hypoallergenic diet.

Dog central

THE Ifema events, trade fair and congress centre in Madrid are hosting the 100x100mascota (100x100pets) show on May 27 and 28. This will be the 12th edition of the fair turning Madrid into the dog cap­

ital of the world. They expect to welcome around 3,000 dogs from more than 250 different breeds and more than 12,000 visitors.

Special guests at the event will be the Chongqing Dog, one of the rarest and

most unknown breeds in the world. They have a long history in China and have become the symbol of the area of Chongqing in the southwest of the country.

The fair is aimed at dog lovers but also cats and pets in general as there will be 20 different breeds of cats such as Russian Blues, Persian and British shorthairs.

Fifty animal shelters will also be present at the fair as many people take their first steps to adopt a pet at this fair.

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

1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSit Match.com

2. Choose a Standard account (£69 per year) to ensure you can help online when needed

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

Trustpilot Testimonials ­ 4.9 / 5 Excellent 10 out of 10 for housesitmatch.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.Housesitmatch.com. Need

AUSTRALIAN fashion week is making the headlines this week as a new designer collaboration is turning heads.

But it is not the usual designers like Dior or Chanel that everyone is talking about, this time it is Petstock. That’s right Petstock introduced their new designer collection with Australian designers THE UPSIDE, Romance Was Born, and Double Rainbou. To show off their collection the most adorable dogs strutted their stuff on the runway with models wearing matching outfits.

The collection features doggy jackets, jumpers, bow ties, leashes, collars, and bandannas. You can even purchase matching

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Model pups

outfits to step out in style for your next dog walk.

There are three distinctive collections, a sporty athleisure style, a fancy glamourous style, and a beach babe coastal style.

Twenty per cent of the Designer Collection will help pets and people in need with the proceeds of this limited edition collection being donated to the Petspiration Foundation.

COMPLICATIONS: Cats can suffer from asthma.

Photo credit: Shutterstock/Svetlana Rey

SPECIAL GUEST: Chongqing one of the rarest breeds.

Photo credit: Wikipedia/Markus Monroe

REMOVALS & STORAGE

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

UNIFORMS

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.cooland cosy.es. 952 935 513. We are Junta de Andalucia authorised installers as the new law states (real decreto 115/2017). On the Costa del Sol since 1993 (1296179)

Quality Air Conditioning Installations. Economical heating, & silent in operation. 28 Years installation history in Spain. EnviroCare. All Areas Covered. 952 663 141/670 409 759 info@envirocare spain.com www.envirocare spain.com (303385)

MR COOL – Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, Heating Systems, Sales & Service – Call Christian +34 629 527 587 or Nick +34 618 678 853 – www.mrcool.es (303225)

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 (303016)

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 li ving environment. ian@ solarshadetinting.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (303296)

HOUSE CLEARANCE SPECIALISTS , FULL OR PART CLEARANCE. ALL FURNITURE WANTED, WE PAY MORE. TEL 634 324 914 OR EMAIL house clearanceman@hotmail.com

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

examiner. For more information, please contact barbaratuition@ gmail.com (303562)

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 (303368)

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 (290158)

QUALITY renovation: Kitchens, bathrooms, tiling, windows, doors, plastering, Total property reno vations info@masterbuild spain.com 952663141

/670409759 Over 28 years renovating history in Spain

METALWORK

NEW REJAS, GATES, Carports & Fencing, repairs & alterations. Work Guaranteed. Reliable. 19yrs on Coast. Steve the Welder. Call/WhatsApp 655 040 648 (303370)

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 (303495)

REAL ESTATE website for sale, turn-key, with 10.000+ listings,24/7 updates, etc..., training available, ideal for starting entrepreneurs,15.000€, 602 457 322 (303495)

CHIMNEY SWEEP. Clean reliable professional 608 377 497 (296265)

APEX CHIMNEY SERVICES, professional chimney sweeping and smoke testing. NACS Qualified. Clean and efficient Tel: Bob 696 320 202 (302584)

ATD DECOR. British Painter. 30 Years’ Experience. Punctual. Great Rates. Call for free quote. 602 431 968 Facebook: @ATDDecorMalaga (303106)

ALHAURIN FURNITURE EMPORIUM Buyers & Sellers of quality furniture. Top prices paid. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071 (302594)

WE BUY vintage antiques and silver. Silver Jewellery accepted. Good rates paid. Discretion assured. 613 822 572 / +447778 422 305 (303311)

ALH RENT A CAR – SHORT & LONG-TERM RENTALS FROM €15 A DAY. INSURANCE INCLUDED IN OUR PRICES.TLF: 638 846 909 or reser vasalhrentacar@gmail.com

PROFESSIONAL CARPENTRY Car-Ports, Mobile Home Decking. Concreting and Slabbing. Best Rates, Fully Insured. Tel: 622 647 602 (303113)

BENALMADENA Elim Family Fellowship. Elimfamilyfellowship. com or call 951 912 525 or 952 446 627. (10011)

CALAHONDA: Encounter Church (Elim), Family church with kids’ activities, Iglesia San Miguel, Sundays 4.30pm, Rev. David Hodgson, 695 115 496 (10012)

THE Ark Christian Church. We meet at The Ark Christian School, Calle Río Darro 2 y Plaza Juncal, 29651, Mijas Costa (the road behind the Mijas Aquapark) on Sundays at 11.00am. Pastor, Andrew Seale Tlf 682 713 491 www.thearkspain.com (293850)

BIOLOGY Chemistry and Physics one-to-one online tuition for International GCSE students by an experienced teacher and

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.starlightspain.com (302566)

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.rainbowpin turas.com (302592)

DOMESTIC appliance repairs washing machines fridges cookers ovens water heaters gas electric professionally repaired 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 TYPES OF ELECTRICAL work, re-wiring, fault finding. Professional & experienced. Frank Tel. or Whatsapp 650 561 629 (302735)

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

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

FAST & FURIOUS 10

THU: 21:00

FRI, SAT, SUN, WED: 21:45

MON, TUE: 21:40

THE LITTLE MERMAID

FRI, SAT, WED: 16:00, 19:00, 21:45

SUN: 13:15, 16:00, 19:00, 21:45

MON, TUE: 18:45, 21:30

STRANGE WAY OF LIFE

FRI, SAT, WED: 19:45, 22:30

SUN: 20:00

MON, TUE: 17:45, 19:50

KNIGHTS OF THE ZODIAC

TUE: 20:00

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY: VOLUME 3

TUE: 17:55

RED DOG CINEMA NEMA NE NEM EM M

PLAZA MAYOR CINEMA Malaga Puerto Banus

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY: VOLUME 3

THU, FRI, SAT, SUN, MON, TUE, WED: 17:00, 20:00

SUPER MARIO BROS: THE FILM

THU, FRI, SAT, SUN, MON, TUE, WED: 17:15, 19:00

FAST X

THU, FRI, SAT, SUN, MON, TUE, WED: 17:00,17:45, 19:40, 20:40, 21:30

MARLOWE

THU, FRI, MON, TUE, WED: 21:00

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)

MARBLE POLISHING, CRYSTALLISING, LASTING, HIGH SHINE. REGRINDING, RESTORATION OF SALTY, DEAD FLOORS. 27YRS EXPERIENCE. RELIABLE. REFS AVAILABLE. CYRIL. 645 840 199 (302550)

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

FURNITURE wanted, same day collection, also house clearance and removals. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071 (302594)

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@gar den-professionals.com (295350)

IRRIGATION

IRIS-IRRIGATION and landscapes. TRENCHLESS NO DIG Irrigation installation, Cables, Fibre Optic, Electric & Lighting Cables. New Installations & problem-solving. Turf (supply

and laying). Garden constructions. Tree surgeon. Clearing. Astro Turf (Free Quotation) 676 747 521 (301097)

ELECTRIC GATE/GARAGE

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

ELECTRIC GATES /Garage

Doors. Intercoms/access control systems and replacement remotes. New installs and repairs. For all your electric gate and garage door requirements call us on 605 356 469/952 786 178. The Garage Door Co & 2 Way Gates. tgdc@ hotmail.co.uk www.2way gates.com (294933)

FUENGIROLA – Reliable lady available for Cleaning, Care & Baby-Sitting services. 624 486 469

GLASS CURTAIN repairs, specialist in replacement of discoloured plastic strips that act as a seal between the glass panels. Call Julian 655 825 931 (302477)

HANDYMAN: General Masonry work, painting, wall/roof waterproofing & other jobs. Call Michael 622 755 666 (303309)

HAIRDRESSER

MOBILE HAIRDRESSER Why don’t I come to you? Women, Men & Children. Estepona – Sotogrande. Call 658 675 077 (303361)

THERAPIST

BODY and face treatments. Oleksandra, massage therapist +34603 388 449. San Pedro Alcántara (303346)

BOTOX & fillers from €80. Skinny Jab & Fat reducing injections. Cover Coast & Inland. www.beautifulmarbella.es 609 347 086 (303371)

Fires: Electric, Gas. Quality guaranteed. EnviroCare. All areas covered. 952 663 141 / 670 409759. info@enviro carespain.com www.enviro carespain.com (303385)

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. (303296)

HOT TUBS new used, bought, sold, hired. Also move & repairs. Used good Hot Tubs for sale. 691 973 131 / +44 7836 379122 (303337)

ALHAURIN FURNITURE EMPORIUM furniture wanted, same day collection, also house clearance and removals. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071 (302594)

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.abbeygatein sure.com (291234)

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

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

DAREN (303056) T1

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)

RELAXING Massage for Men & Couples. Feel free from tension & stress Call Dany 603 202 758 (303493)

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 (303054)

CASSIE. Mature English lady. Discreet and clean. 667 914 732 (FU 2974)

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)

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)

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)

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 (303514)

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 2982)

AMAZING relaxing massage by mature lady, In/ outcalls. Fuengirola. 657 697 397 (FU 2970)

ESTEPONA. Susana, Latin Girl sculptural body, trained for deep relaxing massage. 697 705 304 (FU 2786)

ASIAN wellness massage

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

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

FILIPINO massage centre, Marbella, where hearts of professional massage. Daily. 604 421 973 –952 824 348 (MI 563)

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 563)

BOLICHES: Celina elegant loving kind lovely for educated seri-

ous discreet respectable gentleman good behaviour. Unique moments, deep relax. Private apartment, quite cosy atmosphere. Enjoy complete services, calm excellent treatment special attention of your needs and satisfaction, pleasant sweet sensual lady. Demanding impeccable hygiene! Appointments: 11am/7pm 622 210 797

UKRAINIAN / THAI slims, friendly, beautiful hands massage. Marbella. 604 428 812 (FU 2980)

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 563)

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

ASIAN touch combination oriental/ european massage relief pain stress exotic pretty lady. Elviria. 633 705 558 (MI 563)

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

ORIENTAL lady, tantric sensory generate body to body, technique, deep, soft massage. Marbella 603 208 080 (MI 563)

MASSAGE! Outcalls everywhere in Costa del Sol! Independent lady offer sensual massage. 604 256 336 (FU 2986)

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

THAI Benalmadena Costa. Body-body full massages. Visits. Whatsapp 689 387 448, 632 092 619 (MI 562)

MARBELLA. Hi! I am Agness, beautiful masseuse, spectacular attributes. Relive stress, personalised massage, unforgettable sensations. 642 268 665 (fu 2931)

NUEVA Andaluciia: Valery, Portuguese, mature, blond, sweet unique sensual massage. Independent. 685 221 959 (FU 2987)

JADE BRITISH lady offers sensual massage service for gentlemen & couples. Discrete premises. Estepona area. Call 665 896 519 (303494)

BENALMADENA Private Villa: DANIELA from Colombia 19yrs Masseur. New on the Coast. in C/ Imperio Argentina N.1 in Benalmadena. Incalls Outcalls 24hrs. Tel. 662 52 78 15 (303472)

FUENGIROLA . New Megan , mulatto, 19 years old massage and relaxation, 697 490 934. (FU 2988)

BENALMADENA Private Villa: IRINA Russian Masseur, model, slim, Russian, Spanish, English in Calle Imperio Argentina N.1 in Benalmadena. Incalls & Outcalls 24hrs. Tel. 673 88 75 47 (303472)

NEW Samanta beautiful, Colombian, 19 years old massage and relaxation 697 490 934. (FU 2988)

BENALMADENA Private Masseur villa, massage, jacuzzi, outcalls 24hrs, Calle Imperio Argentina N.1 in Benalmadena. Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs. Tel. 673 88 75 47 (303472)

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. (303406)

BENALMADENA Private Villa: Maria - Colombian Masseurblond long hair, Calle Imperio Argentina N.1 in Benalmadena. Incalls & Outcalls 24hrs. Tel. 673 88 75 47 (303472)

FUENGIROLA Centre. 5 masseuses, total discretion, luxury apartment, young, beautiful. Massage, relax. 697 490 934 (FU 2988)

BENALMADENA Private Villa: Alicia Spanish professional & relaxing Masseur. Calle Imperio Argentina N.1 in Benalmadena. Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs. Tel. 673 88 75 47(303472)

COLOMBIAN . Yeraldin, I do massages and something else. I am independent 45 years old I am in Nueva Andalucía 611 245 461 (FU 2989)

SAN PEDRO DE ALCANTARA - Camilla Masseur 33 - private apartment - 603 804 443 (303471)

BENALMADENA Private Villa: Sandra Spanish Masseur and Amalia - duo massage & relaxing. Calle Imperio Argentina N.1 in Benalmadena. Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs. Tel. 673 88 75 47

MISCELLANEOUS

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

MOSQUITO SCREENS

ACE OF SHADES - Don’t let the bugs get you! Available in enrollable, slider and pleated. Large choice of colours including wood effect. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design (101730)

MOSQUITO Screens for windows, doors and a 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

NANCE / 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)

FOR SALE

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)

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, FI-

MASSAGE

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

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 (302563)

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 (290189)

WANTED

WANTED CARS AND VANS, FREE COLLECTION, SAME DAY 685 524 921 (290189)

CARS, VANS BOUGH WITH / WITHOUT PAPERS. CASH WAITING 678 808 837 (303115)

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

CARS , Vans, Bikes wanted. Any Reg, Anything Considered Call or Whatsapp 687 049 592

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)

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 davechristianclark@ gmail.com (303110)

INTERNATIONAL SKIPPER

LICENCE: Courses held in English and starts soon. VHF and Radar Courses. 626 245 098 (303488)

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

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)

Triple A are looking for PartTime Kennel cleaners. The role is physically demanding, and applicants must be flexible with working hours, reliable and of course enjoy working with animals. Good communication skills required. For more info or apply at Triple A info@triplea marbella.org (303566)

KENNELS

CAT & DOG World Kennels and Cattery. 952 112 978 / 630 197 435. www.catanddogworld.com (303211)

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-chari ty.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 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 animexfoun dation@gmail.com or call 692 166 434 now for this absolutely free service (288287)

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)

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. 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.C OM 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 (303052)

WWW.INMOANDALUZ.COM. Bargain inland properties for all budgets, fincas, village homes, apartments and villas. Legal building plots. 952 491 609 / 685 514 835 (295954)

WWW.INTERMARBELLA.COM

Costa del Sol Property for sale. All areas / all budgets / all types. Spain +34 951 708 422. UK +44 208 144 5008 Email info@intermarbella.com (303052)

SELLING UP?? Why not give us a call and let us give you an honest and realistic valuation of your property. List with us and let us take the stress out of selling your home. No sale no fee!! English agent on the ball with clients waiting. Please call 685 524 921. (290189)

covered. Coast and inland. 655 825 931 (294242)

LONG TERM RENTALS AVAILABLE and also wanted. Super prices. Apartments, townhouses, villas, fincas, shops, offices, bars, restaurants. Coast & inland. Tlf 679 111 522 (303511)

WWW.INTERMARBELLA.COM

Costa del Sol Property Long Term Rentals All areas / All budgets / All types. Spain +34 951 708 422 UK +44 208 144 5008. Email info@intermarbella.com (303052)

15 CUBIC metre van returning to the UK 9th June 2023. Space available each way. Tel. 639 928 090 (303227)

MAN AND VAN

MAN & VAN, 20€ ph. Removals, Rubbish & House Clearances. Paul 634 112 677 (291430)

2 MEN, Van €30 p hour. House Clearances & Storage. 651 081 610 (302401)

moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (294207)

STORAGE, Storage, Storage. Man & Van Services. Call/Whatsapp 690 155 340 (302418)

NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL

PROFESSIONAL LOCAL REMOVALS AT AFFORDABLE RATES. 1/2 DAY FROM €90. FULL DAY FROM €175. WE ALSO PROVIDE A FORTNIGHTLY DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE TO UK AND EUROPE (INCL SCOTLAND). WORLDWIDE SHIPPING TO USA, AUSTRALIA, ETC AND FULL STORAGE FACILITIES. TEL (0034) 952 578 507 OR (0034) 637 892 278 / EMAIL garymoveit@yahoo.co.uk (303055)

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)

STAFF REQUIRED for a busy family owned English bookshop in Marbella The candidate must be fluent in both English and Spanish, computer literate and have the relevant work papers. We are looking for a reliable person who can work on their own initiative, is a book lover, is used to dealing with customers and able to take charge as required. This is NOT a temporary position. Send your C.V. to info@book worldpuertobanus.com (295987)

WE are looking for receptionist for adult massage house. We have in Fuengirola and Elviria. If interested please contact +34 611 30 41 02. (303265)

TRIPLE A are looking for Part-Time Kennel cleaners. The role is physically demanding, and applicants must be flexible with working hours, reliable and of course enjoy working with animals. Good communication skills required. For more info or apply at Triple A info@tripleamarbella.org

SOLAR Hot Water heating: FREE HOT WATER. 28 years installation history in Spain. Envirocare. All areas covered. Quality guaranteed. 952 663 141/ 670 409 759 info@en virocarespain.com www.en virocarespain.com (303385)

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. 28 years installation history in Spain. Envirocare. All areas covered. Quality Guaranteed. 952663141/67040975 9 info@envirocarespain.com www.envirocarespain.com (303385)

UK & IRISH Passport renewals including photos. Complete Service. Cath’s Cards. 952 885 759. www.cathscards.es (290153)

COCKROACHES, ANTS, insects,

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

STARLIGHT Property Cleaning & Maintenance All Areas. Residential & Holiday Lets. Persiana repairs, Decorating, Electrial & Plumbing repairs. 682 636451 www.starlight-spain.com (302566)

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

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

OFFICIAL TRANSLATIONS All Languages. 952 789 204 Mobile 654 613 094 sanpedrotransla tions@gmail.com (302734)

REPAIRS to TVs, LCD, LED,Videos, Hi-Fi, & Microwaves, Mag Boxes, UK channels installed. 35 years experience. Free Estimates, Can Collect. John 952 491 723 or 600 706 201.

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

ELECTRIC & Gas Water Heaters. Quality Ins tallations. 28 years installation history in Spain. EnviroCare. All Areas Covered. 952 663 141 / 670 409 759 info@ envirocarespain. com www.envirocarespain. com (303385)

SEAT Tarraco FR Sport - a touch of style

ROAD TEST

by Mark Slack

MOTORISTS of a certain age might recall the days when we had the Morris Oxford and Austin Cambridge. SEAT has taken to the same idea with their Tarraco, the largest of their SUVs. Named after the Spanish city of Tarragona, apparently Tarraco is what it was called when Rome ruled this part of Spain.

The range comprises of six trim levels with both petrol and diesel power along with manual and DSG automatic gearboxes. The 1.5­litre TSi petrol engine comes with 150PS while the 2.0 ­ litre diesel also develops 150PS and both engines are available with either six­speed manual or seven ­ speed DSG automatic gearboxes.

Standard equipment across the range includes

MAY marks the fifth consecutive month­on­month growth as used EV values stabilise. The average used UK EV retail values are down over £4,000 since January and £9,000 since July, but prices are up 0.2 per cent monthon ­ month as the supply and demand balance improve.

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

seven seats, LED lights, powered, folding, heated mirrors, auto wipers, keyless start, trio­zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, auto dimming rear view mirrors, rear parking sensors and Apple Car Play and Android Auto plus Bluetooth.

With the Tarraco there’s a rather different ­ and welcome ­ approach to the usual somewhat brutish, huge ­ grilled look of many SUVs. The sharp styling looks classy and understated, and as ever with VAG products there’s

a feeling of quality throughout, both interior and exterior.

The Tarraco looks smaller and less intimidating

Facts at a Glance

• Model: SEAT Tarraco FR Sport

• Engine: 2.0 Turbocharged diesel developing 150PS

• Gears: 7-Speed DSG Automatic

thanks to that subtle styling but the result is a capacious family hold ­ all that mixes a touch of style to the job of getting on with

things in a world where reaching the school gates in time is more important than playing grand prix wannabe. There’s plenty of space inside the Tarraco

150PS, and riding on 20” ‘Cosmo’ Grey machined alloy wheels. The FR Sport adds rear privacy glass, front fog lights with cornering function, navigation, keyless entry and start, park assist and heated front and rear seats.

With its sporting credentials the performance is pretty decent with 62 mph reached in just under 10 seconds. Considering its size the FR Sport handles remarkably well too, with little body roll thanks to firmer suspension. It’s not at the expense of ride comfort though.

• Performance: 0-100 kph (62 mph) 9.9 seconds/Maximum Speed 196 kph (122 mph)

• Economy: 5.6l/100km (50.4 mpg) Combined driving (WLTP)

• Emissions: 147 g/km (WLTP)

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

seats are fine for an adult on short journeys.

The range starts at €38,466/£33,415 and my FR Sport was €48,567/ £42,190 with DSG automatic gearbox, 2.0 ­ litre diesel power, developing

Unfortunately, as with most VAG products there is an increasing amount of digitalisation instead of more practical and easier to use switches. That said time would soon bring familiarity and there is much to like in the Tarraco. It’s classy, spacious and generously equipped and makes a fine family holdall.

Magic of Mehari EV values

retail prices.

In fact, Auto Trader’s Retail Price Index, which is based on circa 900,000 daily pricing observations across the full retail market, shows the current average price of a used car is £17,946, which equates to a 3.6 per cent year ­ onyear increase on a likefor­like basis.

Richard Walker, Auto Trader’s Data and Insights

Director, confirmed: “This data not only shows the current strength of the used car market, but also how important it is to keep a close eye on live retail prices to drive the most profit out of every sale.

“With trade values not in line with retail, this further strengthening in retail prices is providing robust margin potential.”

IT was in May 1968, 55 years ago, at the heart of the French student protest movement, that Citroën revealed its new vehicle at the Deauville golf course: the Mehari.

The vehicle is an atypical pick­up offering from 28 to 32 hp, with an ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastic body, designed by Roland de La Poype.

Built on a Dyane 6 platform, it was presented with the name Dyane 6 Mehari on its release.

Produced for almost 20 years between 1968 and 1987, 144,953 units were built (including 1,213 4x4 Mehari), making a

surprising success for this unusual vehicle.

The Mehari was produced, for the most part of it, in the Citroën factory in Forest, Belgium, but also in seven other factories in France, Spain and Portugal.

The name of the Mehari comes from the masculine name mehari which is the name given to dromedaries in North Africa and in the Sahara. These animals are known for their off­road ability, their resistance and their sobriety.

Citroën said, “the name is very representative of the Citroën Mehari model, known for its adaptation to all terrains. It’s a vehicle with many capacities.”

Anna Ellis

CITROËN MEHARI: A vehicle with many capacities.

Image: Citroën

Supply and demand is improving.

Image: buffaloboy / Shutterstock.com

Porsche & golf

Deceptive advert

TOYOTA has been ordered to withdraw the ‘deceptive’ Corolla Cross Hybrid advert. A complaint that was filed by a consumer to the Advertising Regulatory Board (ARB) has resulted in Toyota having to withdraw the ad.

Toyota was accused of misleading customers by creating the impression that the car is readily available when in fact there is a waiting list of up to 24 months. The phrase that consumers complained about was ‘The Corolla Cross GRSport Hybrid is here!’

Toyota initially denied the claim, then later acknowledged the issue saying the waiting pe­

riod is due to a global hybrid battery shortage that is expected to normalise by 2024. The ARB investigated the claims and came to the conclusion that the advert is in fact misleading. It noted that ‘the absence of disclaimers or limitations contributed to the expectation that the vehicle was generally available to purchase.’

The ARB acknowledged the challenges but advised that companies still have a responsibility to be clear when advertising. Consequently, the ARB ordered Toyota to withdraw or appropriately amend their advert to inform customers about the possibility of a long waiting period.

THE 40th staging of the long­standing Porsche European Open tournament will present top international golf and a spectacular fan experience from June 1 to June 4.

To mark the brand’s 75th anniversary, a special Porsche World will be awaiting visitors as Porsche is the title sponsor for the

eighth time this year.

In addition to the famous trophy that has been presented since 1978, a dream car will be on offer on the 17th hole for a dream shot over the water hazard.

Anyone aceing the Par 3 can look forward to a Porsche Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo in Mamba Green Metallic. Chances of

achieving the feat this time around are perhaps greater than ever before as the spectacular almost 140 ­ metre 17th will be playing a little shorter this year.

The last ace on the penultimate hole was struck in 2017 by Marcel Siem. It earned the German a Panamera Turbo Sport Turismo.

Anna Ellis

EUROPEAN OPEN: A special Porsche World will await visitors.

Image: Porsche

Consumer complaints led to investigation.

Photo credit:

Toyota website

Champions League hopes destroyed for Juventus

SERIE A giants Juventus were hit with a 10 ­ point deduction on Monday evening, May 22. The news was announced just before Juve’s away game at Empoli.

Prior to the ruling, the Italian club was sitting in second spot, although a massive 17 points behind this season’s champions Napoli. Removing the 10 points has now demoted them to seventh in the table and out of the European qualifying spots.

The decision by the Italian Football Federation was the result of an ongoing examination that had been carried out into the club’s transfer activities.

A 15 ­ point deduction that was originally handed down to the Bianconeri last January was subsequently overturned by

Manchester City crush Real Madrid

ON Friday, May 17, Manchester City not only went through to the Champions League Final, but they did it in style, beating a dejected Real Madrid 4 ­ 0 at the Emirates Stadium.

It’s a 5 ­ 1 aggregate win for Pep Guradiola’s side, with two goals from Bernardo Silva, one from Julian Alvarez and an own goal from Madrid’s Militao to cement Manchester City’s progression to the Champions League final.

This keeps them on track for a triple trophy haul this season as they lead the Premier League and they play the FA Cup final on June 3 against Manchester United.

But the Champions League is the one that evades them and they will be very hungry to take that trophy under Guardiola. They are now set to take on Inter Milan on June 10, at the Atatürk Olympic Stadium, Istanbul, Turkey.

Mirror Football said on Twitter: “Man City have knocked Real Madrid out of Champions League for a place in the final.”

With a few domestic duties to see to on the way, we look forward to seeing you all for what could be Pep and Manchester City’s crowning glory in Istanbul.

Arsenal hand third title to Man City

A 1­0 DEFEAT at the hands of Nottingham Forest on Saturday, May 20, saw Arsenal hand a third consecutive Premier League title to Manchester City.

riously affected the Arsenal players over the last few weeks as the prize came within their grasp.

the highest sporting court in Italy.

In a statement, Juventus said: “Juventus Football Club takes note of what has been decided by the FIGC Court of Appeal and reserves the right to read the reasons for assessing a possible appeal to the CONI Guarantee Board.”

It continued: “What was established by the judgement of the fifth instance in this matter started over a year ago, arouses great bitterness in the club and its millions of supporters who, in the absence of clear rules, find themselves extremely penalised with the application of sanctions that seem to take into0 account the principle of proportionality.

“Without ignoring the urgen ­

cy, which Juventus never avoided during the process, it is emphasised that these are facts that will still have to be evaluated by a judge,” it concluded.

Controversy has surrounded the club in the last 12 months. The entire board of directors, from the President Andrea Agnelli down, resigned last year.

Shortly after this, it was announced that Agnelli, and Fabio Paratici, who had become Tottenham’s Director of Football, could face criminal charges.

Mikel Arteta’s side was in with a slim chance of taking the battle to the final day of the season, but a single goal from Taiwo Awoniyi was enough to condemn the Gunners to a well­deserved second spot in the table.

As a consequence, City’s match with Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday would serve as nothing more than an early celebration of a stunning third title in three seasons under Pep Guardiola.

With an FA Cup Final to come in June against their cross­city rivals Manchester United, and a Champions League Final lined up with Inter Milan, a historic treble is well within Guardiola’s sights.

The pressure of leading the title race for the majority of this season appears to have se­

They played out far too many draws though, culminating in defeat today at the City ground by a team battling against relegation.

Forest played it calm in the first half and capitalised on a very rare mistake from the Gunners’ captain Martin Odegaard in the 19th minute. As the Danish international’s pass went astray, it was collected by Mogan Gibbs­White.

What appeared to be a failed pass from Gibbs­White suddenly ricocheted into the Arsenal net off Awoniyi’s boot after a sliding tackle from Gabriel to put the home side in front.

If Steve Cooper expected to face a late onslaught from the Gunners, he was in for a surprise. Arsenal offered very little by way of a threat and in the process handed the title to City on a silver platter.

Vinicius Jr racial abuse: Real Madrid call out hate crime

REAL MADRID have filed a legal ‘hate crime’ complaint following abuse to star winger Vinicius Jr as they lost to Valencia on Sunday, May 21.

Racist abuse was hurled at the Brazilian which he highlighted to the referee. As he became more and more infuriated with the abuse he had an altercation with Hugo Duro and was shown a red card.

Luis Miguel Echaegary posted this post­match interview with Carlo Ancelotti on Twitter. The Real Madrid Manager only wanted to talk about the racist incident. Echaegary said:

“Interviewer wants to ask about the game itself. Ancelotti: “You want to talk about the game?” Interviewer: “Well yesI want to ­.” Ancelotti proceeds to use his time to talk about the disgusting racist abuse towards Vinicius Jr.

Ancelotti was quoted as saying in the a local news source:

“La Liga has a problem. For me, Vinicius is the most important player in the world. These episodes of racism have to stop the match.”

“It’s the entire stadium that is insulting a player with racist chants and the match has to stop. I would say the same if we were winning 3­0. There is

no other way.”

Real Madrid released a statement in which they said:

“These events constitute a direct attack on the model of coexistence of our social and democratic State under the rule of law.

“Real Madrid considers that such attacks also constitute a hate crime, and has therefore filed the corresponding complaint with the State Attorney General’s Office, specifically with the Prosecutor’s Office against hate crimes and discrimination, so that the facts can be investigated and responsibilities can be established.”

It remains to be seen if the formal complaint will lead to any prosecutions, but it is the continuation of a problem that many footballing nations have suffered over the years. It is a problem that appears to keep rearing its ugly head.

VINICIUS JR: Ended up being shown a red card.

Now demoted to seventh in the league table.

EWN Over 50s League

El Canadon 0 v 12 The Walking Dead

It must be said that the visitors played some terrific football! Their passing was crisp and accurate and the ability to create space for attacking teammates was a pleasure to watch! In truth, El Canadon were overwhelmed and, try as they did, found it difficult to mount any kind of meaningful challenge against a Walking Dead side playing with such flair and confidence. Their welltaken goals showed what a worthy victory this was.

Nerja United 5 v 2 Boca Seniors Competa

(Match report not available.)

EWN Over 60s League

Torrox Tornadoes 1 v 3

Malaga

The game was played in a friendly but competitive spirit. However, both sides appeared tired, misplacing passes all over the pitch and spurning so many chances to score, although it was clear to

The end is nigh (Walking Football Season)!

lines and Competa Chicas in second and third place respectively. Benalmadena also won the penalty competition which followed.

Tyson Fury vs almost everybody

TYSON FURY, current WBC Boxing Heavyweight World Champion, has recently taken to social media infuriated by Joe Rogan’s comment on his podcast of March 24, when he suggested UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones would beat him in a fight.

see that everyone was trying their hardest to perform to the best of their abilities! Frustration abounded all over the pitch and this only served to create more mistakes for both teams. This was a fairly even game and it was only in the closing minutes that Malaga began to pull ahead and seal the victory.

Meanwhile, elsewhere…

Recently, the first Com­

peta Chicas Walking Football Tournament took place, contested by Competa Chicas themselves, Benalmadena Ladies and The Felines International.

The ominous weather held off, enabling all three teams to play some attractive football, in an excellent spirit of fair play and good humour, all splendidly refereed by Austin Fenn. Benalmadena Ladies were the eventual winners with The Fe­

The afternoon showcased the best of Women’s Walking Football, and it is hoped that the number of participating teams will increase next year. Thanks go to Competa Town Hall, Alternative Properties and Libra Recruitment and all players for making this project a reality!

The Finale!

Don’t forget that the Final of the Costa del Sol Walking Football League Cup will be contested between Malaga WFC and The Walking Dead WFC at El Canadon on Tuesday May 30, kick off at 19.45.

Joe Rogan said on his podcast to guest comedian Andrew Schulz that: “If Jon Jones and Tyson Fury are locked into a room, I’m pushing all my chips on black,” adding, “Tyson Fury is an amazing boxer. He doesn’t have a chance in hell of making it out of that room.”

Tyson Fury, who admitted in a video that he had been absent from social media for a while, it seems was highly offended by Rogan’s statement. He took to social media himself, explicitly calling out Rogan saying: “Whatever happened in that room, I’d be walking out. Not a problem.”

This quickly escalated online with Jon Jones taking to Twitter saying: “Hey Tyson, it

seems like Joe may have struck a nerve. I’ll admit there’s no one touching you in that ring right now, but let’s not let that confuse you with what would happen if you stepped foot in my cage. If you ever want to put some of those questions you got going on to rest, give Dana a call. I’ll help you out.”

Now the president of the UFC Dana has been seen in an interview posted by Bro Bible on YouTube saying: “If Tyson Fury really wants to fight Jon Jones in the UFC I will make it happen. Tyson if you’re serious let me know. Tyson and I have a good relationship …Tyson can talk, Jon can talk, I can talk, we can all talk. Let’s do it.”

Fury has more recently been seen training mixed martial arts (MMA) with ex­UFC fighter Nick Diaz, brother of Nate Diaz. We are yet to see big names from the boxing world try MMA and it’s hard to imagine that Fury would be the first, although what a fight that would be.

Just one point away Harry Kane to reconsider

AS the Premier League season reaches its climax, Newcastle and Manchester United are in the driving seat to claim the last two remaining Champions League spots.

Both teams are level on 69 points with two matches left to play and need only one point each to secure third and fourth positions in the table.

Liverpool have a mathematical possibility of stealing one of the spots but it would be a huge gamble to put money on them at this point with only one game left to play, away to the already relegated Southampton.

Eddie Howe has over ­

seen a massive transformation at St James Park and steered his Newcastle team to a regular position at the top end of the table since taking over as manager.

They have consolidated that third spot now for several weeks and just one point from Monday night’s home game with Leicester City will be enough to keep it. The Foxes however will be battling to stay away from relagation so it will not be plain sailing. Should the Magpies lose then they face a tricky trip to Stamford Bridge to take on Chelsea on the last day of the season which they would have to at least draw.

Erik ten Hag’s side has two home matches lined up at Old Trafford, first against Chelsea today Thursday May 25, and then Fulham on Saturday May 28.

The Red Devils have endured a very unstable season. They made a huge resurgence where seemed to be a foregone conclusion that they would finish in the top four. Then, they only won two of their last four league games to end up fighting with Liverpool for that final spot.

Manchester City secured their third consecutive title after Arsenal stumbled to a 1 ­ 0 defeat against Nottingham Forest. In the process, Steve Cooper’s side kept their status in the top flight of English football.

The Gunners still earned a well­deserved second in the table which will see Champions league football return to the Emirates for the first time since 2017.

FORMER England and Newcastle striker Alan Shearer has spoken about Harry Kane’s future amid rumours of the striker leaving Spurs in the summer.

Speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day programme Shearer said: “If it was me, personally, in his situation now ­ yeah, I would look at my options.

“He has been so loyal to Tottenham and so brilliant for Tottenham. I don’t

second on the all­time top scorers’ list in the Premier League, with 211 goals, Kane has never won a trophy with Tottenham in his career.

Following Spurs last home game on Saturday, Kane’s waving to the fans was seen as a goodbye gesture ­ a theory dismissed by current manager Ryan Mason.

Mason said: “He waves at the crowd every season. I saw him waving two years ago and you guys [reporters] were convinced he was leaving. He was just thanking the fans as he does every season.”

Manchester United have emerged as favourites for Kane’s signature. They have been heavily linked with him for months now alongside other strikers, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, and Atalanta’s Rasmus

HARRY KANE: Rumours of him leaving.

The afternoon saw the best of Women’s Walking Football.