Costa Blanca South 15 – 21 June 2023 Issue 1980

SPIN THE WHEEL

ROCK Against Cancer is pleased to announce the second winner of their Spin the Wheel fundraiser that took place on Friday, June 9.

The lucky winner of a pair of weekend concert tickets for the Rock Against Cancer concert on September 8 and 9 is Cathy of Bucks E ­ cigs at Zoco Market and Lumsdens Auctions.

There will be more chances to win another pair of these tickets on June 30.

Spin the Wheel numbers range from 1 to 50 and cost €5 each, with all the proceeds going to the charity.

Spin the Wheel tickets can be obtained from stall holders at the Rock Against Cancer Charity events being held at the Cerveceria Dsas3 in Los Palacios on June 20, at the Stagger Inn in Rojales on June 27 and at the Oasis Bar in Benijofar on July 4.

Local businesses that regularly join in to help at the Rock Against Cancer events are D’s Hair Extensions, Sandra Oracle Card

Readings and Dutch’s Rugby Store, all selling lots of different items with all of the money going straight to the cause.

The events continue to be a success with regular customers at the bars supporting the charity.

The charity would like to say a big thank you to all of the publicity by the bars and the stall holders and everyone who has been involved for their time, support and donations.

Tickets for the not to be missed Rock Against Cancer Concert on September 8 and 9 are now available, prices are €20 a day or €35 for two days. Concert tickets can be bought at any of the forthcoming charity events or online at www.rockagainstcancer. es.

Image: Rock Against Cancer

Spin the Wheel winner, Cathy.

ALICANTE recently hosted the International Congress of Web Engineering (ICWE) in which more than 100 academic researchers and companies such as Google from 17 countries met to discuss Web Engineering in the era of Artificial Intelligence.

Technological congresses and meetings are increasing in Alicante and in fact, together with doctors, they have been the most numerous so far this year.

Meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) tourism has an estimated cost per person per day of €300. This affects the entire tourism sector, from hotels to commerce and, in particular,

MICE tourism

the hospitality industry

The Alicante Convention Bureau which is the office that processes MICE tourism has seen a notable increase in requests for information to celebrate

THE department of Culture of Aspe Town Council recently held a talk entitled: Information and efficiency against energy vulnerability. The talk was given by Carlos Gonzalez Gutierrez­Barquín, Civil Engineer, Mabel Perez Lozano, a graduate in Law, and Carolina Carin, a graduate in Social Work.

conventions and corporate and incentive trips in the city.

In the last few weeks, they have processed about 20 applications for this year and next.

Energy saving

In the talk, concepts such as ‘energy

poverty’ and ‘vulnerable households’ were explained.

Advice on energy­saving measures was also given. Among them, the speakers pointed out that showers should not last more than five minutes. “Each minute of running the tap uses 8­10 litres of water.”

It was also recommended to use fans instead of air conditioning or to set the temperature of the air conditioning to 25ºC.

TOURISM: Around 20 applications have been made so far.

Image: Alicante City Council

Key services

THE Torrevieja Health department is preparing for the arrival of summer and has presented its care plan that guarantees 100 per cent care coverage for the population in key services such as Emergencies, Primary Care and Hospitalisation.

37 tons

WITH the installation last year of 330 solar panels on the roofs of Villamartin Vega Baja and Limonar School facilities in San Miguel de Salinas and its Buenavista and Montevida campuses, 37 tons of CO2 emissions have been avoided.

Bargain tickets

RENFE tickets are now on sale so that young people can travel at a discount this summer. Europeans between the ages of 18 and 30 will be able to benefit from discounts of up to 90 per cent on travel tickets.

Donation marathon

THE sixth Blood Donation Marathon was held on June 12 at the MARQ Archaeological Museum in Alicante and is being celebrated as a huge success. Alicante mayor, Luis Bacala, confirmed: “We can all need a transfusion at any time and a single donation can save three lives."

Number 14

THE department of Education of Torrevieja has anticipated it will take three months to create School Number 14 in Torrevieja City made exclusively out of prefabricated classrooms to help with the recent demand.

Tabarca expansion

ALICANTE City Council has now approved the expansion works of the Isla de Tabarca cemetery with an investment of €145,200. The works include the repair of the interior and the perimeter walls.

Vega Baja Regatta

WITH more than 30 boats competing during the fourth Chantal ­ Ondacero Vega Baja Regatta on June 11, it made for a spectacular day of sailing.

Even the half­hour delay in navigation due to the little wind didn’t dampen spirits.

The 11­mile race started in front of the Man of the Sea, a beacon in La Mata to Punta Prima, with the finish at Los Naufragos beach.

The tour was quite a show for the large public who, from the beaches of Torrevieja, was able to ob­

YOUR EWN HAS

serve the movements of the cruise ships.

The awards ceremony took place at 3.30pm on the Real Club Nautico Torrevieja terrace, with the assistance of the president of the Valencian Sailing Federation Carlos Torrado and the sponsors of the regatta.

First place in the ORC A class went to Mevilla­Jumbuck. First place in ORC B went to Ozu Two. First place in Division 2, to Atoll 3. Finally, in SB3 first place the trophy went to the young sailors of the Real Club Nautico of Torrevieja.

Pesky mosquitos Alicante’s roads

SPAIN’S Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda has formalised a contract for €11.56 million for the execution of various conservation and operation operations on state roads in the province of Alicante.

This contract covers a total of 85 kilometres of roads, 65 kilometres of which are dual carriageways, and is part of the government’s conservation and operation programme, which enables the maintenance of the road network so that it is accessible in suitable conditions for all citizens.

The project includes several sections of the A ­ 7, CV­80 and N­340 roads. In addition, this contract includes a specific project for a small project necessary to improve the functionality of the road, consisting of the renovation of road markings on the sector’s roads.

This contract also includes measures to improve energy efficiencies, such as the electrical installation for recharging batteries in electric vehicles in the conservation centres and tunnel control centres and the installation of LED screens and solar panels.

ELCHE’S Department of Health has intensified its fight against mosquitos both in the urban area and in different districts after weeks of abundant rain and subsequent increase in temperatures.

This type of weather favours the hatching of mosquitos in accumulations of water and for this reason, the Health Department has activated the protocol to prevent an increase in the menacing little creatures.

The larvicidal treatments started almost immediately, reinforcing the number of teams to be able to cover all the flood ­ prone areas of the town in the shortest possible time.

Likewise, since last week, adulticide treatments began with various specific cannons for mosquito control, which will be maintained in the morning and evening hours and on weekends, until the population of adult mosquitos decreases.

Anti ­ mosquito actions are also taking place in El Altet, Arenales del Sol, Las Bayas, La Hoya, Daimes, Matola, Algoros and Valverde.

Exceptional Elche

THE General University Hospital of Elche has performed a total of 267 kidney transplants since it was accredited to perform them in 2012.

The hospital is also a reference for the south of the province and provides kidney transplant coverage to the hospitals of Elche, Vinalopo, Torrevieja and Orihuela, which means nearly one million citizens.

In 2022, the hospital carried out 21 kidney transplants, and 17 more have been carried out so far in 2023.

110 STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Bike donation

TORREVIEJA’S Traffic Department has delivered 60 bicycles to the Bikes for Life Association.

The delivery of these bicycles, carried out by the councillor for Traffic, Federico Alarcon, gives vulnerable groups the opportunity to access an affordable and sustainable means of transport.

Many people in disadvantaged situations do not have the resources to purchase their own vehicle or to cover the costs associated with public transportation.

The councillor highlighted that it also has an important transformative social impact. By allowing vulnerable groups to have access to mobility it opens up new opportunities for them.

Bicycles can facilitate access to jobs, education and basic services, which contributes to breaking the cycle of poverty and promoting equal opportunities.

The year 2019 was the Hospital’s best ever, with 34 transplants.

Each kidney transplant involves the coordinated work of around 25 professionals. But these figures are only related to kidney explant and transplant operations, since in the case of a multiorgan donor, ie more organs (heart, lungs or corneas) can be explanted from the same person, the number of professionals involved increases to more than 100 between explant and transplant.

GREAT SAILING: The tour was quite a show for the public.

Image: Real Club Nautico Torrevieja

Tennis sensation

TORREVIEJA’S Charo Esquiva is officially the new sensation of Spanish tennis at just 15 years old.

The young tennis champ was eliminated in round 16 of the Roland Garros junior tournament but has left an incredible impression in Paris despite her young age.

She fought the definitive ‘tie break’ (0­6, 6­2 and 7­6) to get into the quarterfinals but the Dane, Rebecca Munk, ended up beating her after more than two hours and 13 minutes of a match that featured some phenomenal game playing.

Despite the defeat, the tennis player

PROVERB OF THE

from Bigastro who belongs to the Torrevieja Tennis Club has received a lot of praise in a tournament with great media coverage in which she made her debut at just 15 years old.

The player is already within the top 40 of the ITF ranking, taking leaps and bounds in her career.

She will also play in the junior Wimbledon finals, as she scored enough points when she won the ITF Junior 500 in Offenbach in Germany which is one of the most important tournaments on the world junior circuit, only surpassed in importance by the four Junior Grand Slams.

SATURDAY, June 10, looked to be the long ­ awaited start of summer in Spain as temperatures hit the high 20s and also proved to be a bit trying for some of the members of the Torrevieja U3A Walk and Talk Group.

Thirty ­ four members of the group, formerly known as the Strollers Group, met for their last wander of the season before the weather becomes too hot for walking, and set off from near the Punta Prima restaurant on the Punta Prima promenade.

The group wandered along the shoreline through to Torrevieja just by the bars and restaurants backing onto the old Dialprix at Mar Azul.

They spent time relaxing

Walk and Talk

and chatting over a coffee before setting off to return, but this time along the streets to check out some stunning properties set one row back from the promenade.

It was a great couple of hours with plenty of chat, banter and views

along the way. Check out their website at www.Torreviejau3a.org where details of this and all of the other groups available to Torrevieja U3A members can be found, along with information on how to join the Association.

Transplant triumph

CORNEAL transplants have increased by 40 per cent in the province of Alicante thanks to a campaign implemented in the different hospitals of the province to attract a new donor profile.

Until now patients who die of cancer, very advanced respiratory and cardiac pathologies, or neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) were unable to donate.

The new awareness campaign has made it possible to reduce the waiting list for a corneal transplant intervention, which previously was up to a year.

Doctor Miguel Perdiguero, Head of the Transplant Coordination Service of the Alicante General Hospital, confirmed: “There are problems with the waiting list for corneal transplants, which leads us to look for other scenarios of potential donors and that is what

we are doing, we are trying to create a culture of donation.

“The relatives of cancer patients feel very comforted that after suffering from such an awful disease something good can come out of it. Cancer patients and others such as ALS patients or those with heart disease cannot generally donate organs such as kidneys, livers or lungs, but they can donate corneas.”

LAST WANDER: Along the Punta Prima promenade.

Image: u3a Walk and Talk Group

NEW CAMPAIGN: To attract donors.

Image: u3a Walk and Talk Group

WEEK

“Many hands make light work”

Meaning people do things more quickly and easily when they work together. A very ancient proverb known to both the Greeks and the Romans – it first appeared in English by John Heywood in 1546.

The number of overseas territories the UK has across the globe.

Absolute success

Anna Ellis

ELCHE Street Food Market

registered an influx of more than 30,000 people over the weekend of June 9, 10 and 11.

The hugely successful market, which had to be postponed twice due to the weather, was once again located at the Paseo de Estacion.

The councillor for Commerce, Felip Sanchez, confirmed that by midday on Saturday, June 10, the total sales

of the 2022 Street Food Market had been achieved.

Visitors to Elche enjoyed 14 food trucks with gastronomy from various countries and a

ALICANTE will once again compete for a new Green Flag from Ecovidrio, which rewards the efforts in the correct waste management of hoteliers and coastal municipalities during the summer period.

Catalonia, Valencia, Murcia, the Balearic Islands and Andalucia are participating in the fifth edition of Green Flags.

In overall figures, Ecovidrio’s initiative is present in more than 15,300 catering establishments throughout Spain with 2,000 bins and 550 containers.

The campaign, which will run from June to August, is aimed at both local councils and the

market with 18 craft, fashion and design stalls, as well as live musical performances and activities especially for children.

Green Flag

hotel and catering trade.

Green Flags assesses the actions implemented in response to the significant increase in glass waste generation in coastal areas due to summer tourism.

Aspects such as the increase in the volume of selective collection of glass containers in the municipality, the percentage of local hotels and restaurants participating and their collaboration to achieve the objectives are taken into account.

FOOD MARKET: More than 30,000 people visited.

Image: Elche City Council

Mozzy app

DO you know what types of mosquitoes there are on the Costa Blanca? What are the areas where there are most of them? At what time do they usually bite the most?

These are some of the questions that the Ministry of Health wants to answer, which is why the government has launched a mobile application that collects data on the contributions made by citizens in this study.

The Ministry of Health is asking people living on the Costa Blanca, as well as the rest of Spain, to interact and provide information on the place and time they have seen or been bitten by a mosquito and, if possible, they should provide a photograph of the specimen, which experts will analyse to identify the species.

Fernando Simon, Director of the Coordination Centre for Alerts and Health Emergencies, confirmed: “The world is changing fast; we cannot tackle problems without changing the way we deal with them. We need to innovate for efficient surveillance systems. Citizen science is key to what we are dealing with today.

“If you get bitten, report it!”

€11.5 million

THE Spanish government has confirmed the allocation of €11.5 million to the conservation of various roads in the province of Alicante. Throughout 2023, works are planned on the A­7, the CV80 and the N­340. These roads contain several of the points with the highest concentration of accidents in the province.

According to the latest reports from the DGT, some of the particularly conflictive sections for traffic are located on the A­7 motorway at Maigmo, near Tibi, and the N­340 from Crevillent to the border with Murcia.

Hosting Finland

Anna Ellis

TORREVIEJA’S Sports Department has once again hosted several Finnish Basketball Training Camps

The councillor for Sports, Diana Box Alonso, confirmed: “After an extraordinary winter and spring in terms of economic figures generated by Sports Tourism, Torrevieja and its Sports City once again welcomed several grassroots basketball teams throughout the first week of June.

“Club Biddy has visited us again with two of its teams, the boys and girls teams. Club Buddy from Helsinki was cre­

ORIHUELA is to be promoted as a tourist destination in Europa magazine, which is distributed on all Air Europa airline planes.

The councillor for Tourism, Maria Garcia, recalled that in the May issue, a space was contracted to promote the Fiestas de la Reconquista, to promote the fiestas and to also advance the declaration of International

ated in 1951 and since 1977 and thanks to a close collaboration with the United States, annually organises an International Tournament with great popularity and level in their country.”

The councillor added: “They also organise camps and recruitment of 12­yearold boys and girls. It is a great Club of reference and practically all the players who reach the basketball elite in Finland pass through the Club that has visited us.

“The teams that enjoyed the occasion are young promises and enjoyed an agenda full of activities, training sessions, friendly matches and sports and leisure experiences.”

All of the visitors stayed in Torrevieja and enjoyed all the services provided by local providers, boosting the beginning of the summer season.

Europa Magazine

Tourist Interest.

In the same way, during the month of June, the beaches of Orihuela will be promoted.

Under the title Orihuela: sun for the whole year, the magazine includes a report on the 16 kilometres of coastline.

The potential audience for this promotional action is more than one million readers, 84 per cent of travellers declared that they have read the magazine on board the plane. Of these, 51 per cent are men and 49 per cent are women, with an age ranging between 35

and 54 years. Half of the readers have high incomes. “We want to put Orihuela in the minds of the people who take those flights. We must promote ourselves as an important tourist destination within Spain,” the councillor added.

Club Buddy from Helsinki visited.

Image: Torrevieja City Council

Anna Ellis

THE month of May has marked a historic series in terms of rainfall in the Vega Baja municipality, exceeding 100 litres per square metre in most of the region.

Pedro Jose Gomez Cascales, author of the MeteOrihuela Project, confirmed: “The rainfall record for a month of May in Orihuela and in the entire Vega Baja has been pulverized.”

Pedro added that this streak or wet trend, will continue until at least mid­June. It is due to the displacement of high pressures to the British Isles acting as a block

Historic rainfall

This is highlighted by the southern flank of Europe, and in this case by the Iberian Peninsula, where episodes of storms are recurrent due to the presence of cold air in high layers of the atmosphere.

However, April was the hottest and driest since official records began to be taken in Spain, in 1961.

so that the disturbances can circulate freely and persist permanently.

THE Real Club Nautico of Torrevieja (RCNT) proudly won five gold, nine silver and three bronze medals in the Autonomous Olympic Rowing Championship held at the Beniarres reservoir on June 3.

Nearly 200 athletes participated in the 2023 Championship in the Beniarres reservoir in the town of Planes de Baronia, in the province of Alicante, where the federation has its modernisation centre.

The test had the categories juvenile, child, cadet, youth, sub23, absolute and veteran; and the modalities of participation are 1X, 2X and 4X. The RCNT teams participated in practically

In Vega Baja, the maximum temperature so far this year was recorded in the city of Orihuela on April 29, with a record of 35.5ºC.

Rowing champs

all categories and modalities, achieving 5 gold, 9 silver, 3 bronze, 1 fourth and 3 fifth places.

Image: MeteOrihuela Instagram

Rainfall was a record.

CLUB NAUTICO: Won 17 medals.

Image: RCNT

Anna Ellis ZENIA BOULEVARD care about sustainability and care for the environment, which is why during the summer months they are launching the campaign Let Yourself Go.

The company are concerned about the environmental impact of the automotive sector and want to contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gases.

The Boulevard want to reward those who choose sustainable means of transportation to go shopping. If you arrive by bicycle to the shopping centre, you can take a super fun doorbell as a gift.

If you decide to arrive by bus and present your ticket at the Customer Service Point (PAC), you will automatically be entered into the draw for a €200 gift card to reward and recognise your choice to use public transport which is an environmentally friendly option.

At Zenia Boulevard, they believe in the importance of taking care of our planet

Let Yourself Go

and taking concrete measures to reduce our ecological footprint. They invite all visitors and employees to join them in

this cause, adopting sustainable mobility habits and choosing more environmentally friendly options.

Fishing Pairs Cup

CARP-R-US took a week off from their Spring Series to fish their Pairs Cup at El Bosquet. On this occasion they were also accompanied by Beth and Aiden from the TV programme Bargain Loving Brits in the Sun who shadowed club president Roy Dainty during the match as well as filming the pre ­ match rituals and joining members at Café Uno in Catral after the match for a drink and some sparkling wit and repartee.

Half of those fishing were on beg 1a­7 and the rest on 26 ­ 40 and sadly the latter stretch fished very poorly with and number of low weights and one blank net.

The overall match was

won by Dave Hutchison on peg 1 who caught 16.32kg on pole and pellet. Second was birthday boy Steve Higgins (he claims he is 72 but no one believes him) with 13.72kg from peg 4 using pole and maggots. He narrowly beat Nick Bastock on peg 3 who had 13.38kg and fourth was Paul Burton on peg 7 with 11.32kg.

The pairs was won by Nick Bastock and TV legend, Roy Dainty with Dave Hutchinson and Ken Wilcock.

Further information about the club can be found on its website www.carp­rus.weebly.com or on the Facebook page Carp ­ R ­ Us Fishing Costa Blanca.

Promoting Elche

VISITELCHE promoted the tourist attractions of the municipality at the Turexpo Galicia Tourist Fair held in Silleda, Pontevedra, from June 8 to 11.

Their participation had the objective of bringing the image of the capital of the Baix Vinalopo closer to the Galician market and the north of Portugal.

In addition to the main products and the different festivals of tourist interest,

Anna Ellis

THE Pet ­ Friendly tourism market is one of the products with the greatest positioning in recent times.

In Spain, there are currently 28 million pets. In more than 40 per cent of homes, there is a pet. This is a figure that has grown considerably in the last 10 years.

Dogs account for about seven million pets, while the number of children under 14 years of age adds up to 6.3 million according to statistical data.

With these data in hand, the hotel and tourist ac ­

emphasis was placed on weekend getaways and bank holiday breaks in the municipality.

With its participation in the event aimed at both professionals and the general public, VisitElche seeks to open up new business opportunities, establish collaborations with Galician and Portuguese tour operators and travel agents, as well as attract potential customers.

Pet-friendly

commodation sector has evolved to increase its offer for these members of the family and it is no longer uncommon to share a hotel with pets.

Travelling with pets is go­

ing to mean a revolution in the accommodation offered in the Alicante Province, and innovation in this sector will make a difference in the face of a market demand that is looking for solutions for guests to holiday with their pets. A new law, which is set to come into force in Spain on September 29, will require establishments to have a badge displayed on the front door regarding their pet policy.

New pet policy for hotels.

Image: HOSBEC

Complete recovery

Anna Ellis

SPAIN received 7.2 million tourists in April, which is 20 per cent above the best prepandemic figure.

In the first four months of 2023, Spain received a total of 21 million arrivals, 32.4 per cent more than in the same period of 2022.

Visitor and spending records were also broken in April: €8.48 billion, 22.7 per cent more than in 2022 and

Betty Henderson

THE ongoing negotiations between Spain and the United Kingdom regarding Gibraltar’s post­Brexit status have hit a roadblock due to the recentlyannounced Spanish elections.

The elections, which have been announced for Sunday, July 23, could bring about a change in national leadership.

When the European Union and the UK finalised their Brexit agreement, they failed to address the pressing issue of Gibraltar’s border condi­

20.2 per cent more than the best pre ­ pandemic figure (2019).

Spain was visited by 7.2 million international tourists in April, 18.5 per cent more than in the same period of 2022, and 1.2 per cent more than in April 2019.

These figures represent an all­time record in terms of visitor numbers and spending: €8.48 billion, 22.7 per cent more than a year ago and

20.2 per cent more than the best pre­pandemic figure, according to Frontur and Egatur data published by the National Statistics Institute (INE).

Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Hector Gomez, confirmed: “These are extraordinary figures that demonstrate, once again, that Spain is at the forefront of world tourism, and that the tourism recovery is complete.”

Gibraltar’s gridlock

tions. As a result, negotiations have been ongoing for two and a half years, with 13 formal rounds of talks held since October 2021.

However, with the Spanish democratic process now in full swing, sources from the Gibraltar government have confirmed that both the UK and the EU have agreed to suspend further formal meetings until a new Spanish government is established. Infor­

mal discussions, however, are expected to continue.

5m passports issued in the UK every year.

Royal collections

Anna Ellis

SPAIN’S King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia will inaugurate the Royal Collections Gallery at the opening ceremony on June 28.

Madrid boasts several world­renowned galleries, such as the Prado Museum, the ThyssenBornemisza, and the Reina Sofía. However, next month, Spain is poised to unveil one of Europe’s most anticipated cultural highlights of the year: The Royal Collections Gallery.

The new museum will showcase a remarkable assortment of paintings, tapestries, sculptures, decorative art pieces, and royal furniture accumulated by Spanish monarchs over a span

BY country, the UK continues to head the list of source countries for the tourist market to Spain with 1.4 million visitors in April. This represents a strong growth of 8.7 per cent compared to the same month in 2022.

France and Germany were the next countries with the most tourists visiting Spain, with more than one million visitors each. Tourist numbers from France grew in April by 26.9 per cent in the annual rate, and those from Germany by 2 per cent.

of five centuries, over the Hapsburg and Bourbon dynasties of the empire.

The exhibition will present 650 selected pieces out of the vast collection of over 150,000 artworks managed by Patrimonio Nacional.

Spain’s visitors

Among the other source countries, notable was the annual growth of tourists from the US (60.7 per cent more than in April 2022), which was the country with the highest growth that month, followed by Italy (29 per cent more than a year ago) and Portugal (29.6 per cent more).

In the first four months of the year, visitors from the US increased by 75.4 per cent, as the country of origin with the

highest growth in tourist arrivals compared to a year ago.

NEW EXHIBITION: Will open in Madrid.

Image: Patrimonio Nacional

1 in 4

adults read print newspapers every day in the UK.

Look Right, look Left

Linda Hall SPAIN, which was not due to hold a general election until December this year, will go to the polls on July 23.

Following dismal results for the governing PSOE and Unidas Podemos (UP) coalition in the May 28 local and regional elections, the president of Spain’s government, Pedro Sanchez, announced the new date the following morning.

Which way will the Spanish vote?

Partido Socialista Obrero Español (Spanish Workers’ Socialist Party) Written and referred to as PSOE (pronounced pay­ soee) it is Spain’s oldest political, founded in 1879 by Pablo Iglesias.

Middle­of­the road un­radical socialism, although the party shies away from mentioning or laying claims to being a centrist party. It has been in government since June 1, 2018 after a no­confidence vote defeated Partido Popular president Mariano

Rajoy. In power thanks to an uneasy alliance between the PSOE and far­left UP, which itself is a coalition of the Izquierda Unida and Podemos parties.

Party logo: a fist clenched round a red rose.

Partido Popular (People’s Party) Written and referred to as PP (pronounced paypay), the Partido Popular dates back to 1989 as the result of a rebranded Alianza Popular, founded in 1977 to stand in Spain’s first democratic general elections.

Middle­of­the­road conservatism now headed by Alberto Nuñez Feijoo who was president of the Galicia region between 2009 and April 2022 when he took over as the PP’s president.

The PP was phenomenally successful in the May 28 municipal and regional elections, and now controls all but two of Spain’s regional governments and most of its important city halls.

Party log: a blue seagull.

As neither the PSOE nor the PP is likely to wake up on July 24 with an overall majority, Sanchez will have to look further to the Left and Feijoo to the Right if either is to form a government.

Sanchez already knows that he will have backing from Sumar A coalition of 15 parties to the Left of the PSOE that was only registered on June 9. Created by minister of Labour Yolanda Diaz, who belongs to Izquierda Unida and consistently overtakes Pedro Sanchez in popularity polls.

Feijoo will have no problem in enlisting the help of Vox Formed in 2013 by Santiago Abascal, Vox entered the Spanish parliament in 2019. It is old­school, anti­immigration, anti­LGTB, antiabortion, anti­EU. Although he knows Vox’s cooperation will be forthcoming, Feijoo also realises this could cloud the PP’s centre­right reputation and ambitions.

MONCLOA PALACE: July 23 will decide its next tenant.

Photo credit: CC/Yeray Diaz Zbida

€500 note still legal

WHEN the concept of introducing a euro zone currency was first muted, each member state was invited to join and to confirm what denomination of coins and bank notes they wanted.

At that time Germany, supported by Austria didn’t want to see large notes disappear as many transactions in those two countries were carried out in cash and as Germany had a 500 Deutschmark note, it was agreed that there should be a €500 note.

As time passed and the membership expanded to 20, so did the fear that many countries had that a €500 note was ideal for money launderers and smugglers as well as counterfeiters.

It was calculated that if they wanted to move €1 million anywhere around the world, the weight when using €500 notes was 2.2 kilos as opposed to 20 kilos if using €50 notes and obvi­

ously the packages were much smaller as well.

When new bank note designs were being considered, the European Central Bank confirmed that with effect from the end of 2018, no new €500 bank notes would be printed, except in Austria and Germany where they would continue for a further three months.

Many people in Spain are of the opinion that the €500 note has been withdrawn completely, but in fact they are legal tender across the Euro Zone and

may be used legally for transactions in Spain, although there are rules concerning the amount of cash that may be tendered when settling an invoice.

1,900 Banco Santander branches in Spain

LEGAL TENDER: Real or fake?

Credit: Ivan Radic flickr

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: The bloke who does voices

THERE is a long history of impersonators in the UK and the latest name to catch the attention is Danny Posthill who is a regular visitor to both the Costa del Sol and Mallorca.

Following a recent visit to see his aunt Sylvia who was celebrating her 90th birthday in her home in Fuengirola he was catching up with friend, popular local singer Mario Ross who asked if he would act as auctioneer at the Children with Cancer UK fundraiser at Villa Tiberio in Marbella on Sunday May 28.

After returning to the UK and then flying out to Cyprus for a show, Danny found time to speak exclusively with Euro Weekly News about his career and the way in which it has blossomed since reaching the finals of Britain’s Got Talent in 2015.

Asked about how he discovered his talent for voices Danny explained “I guess that most impressionists will tell you it dates back to schooldays, I wasn’t a great scholar but could make my friends laugh by mimicking the voices of various teachers.

“One day everyone was amused by my take on a science teacher and suddenly the room went quiet and I sensed a presence behind me and sure enough it was that very teach­

er.

“Soon after I moved to a new class and the joke was on me, because my new teacher had obviously heard about that discovery and simply refused to allow me into his class in case I did the same, before telling me he was winding me up.”

As it happened, he went on to win the school talent show and then decided to get into entertainment, firstly working in holiday camps, being in charge of competitions for the kids and then it was off to Mallorca, but times were hard and he ended up sleeping in a hotel sauna because he couldn’t afford a room.

Things got better and as he honed his skill, he got a job on a cruise ship but always wanted to be a full time entertainer and in 2013 he got an agent and be­

came a full time professional.

“It’s not really a proper job, and although sometimes it’s stressful and there is a lot of travelling, I’m doing what I love and it’s so nice that I can make people laugh.”

Quite surprisingly, Danny mimics a number of female celebrities because he recognises his vocal range and doesn’t stray out of it, although he suspects it may change as he gets older.

“Basically, I have a fairly high pitched voice which means that I can become Sarah Millican, Dianne Abbott, Priti Patel and Nicola Sturgeon, although I have to admit that my two favourite impressions are Donald Trump and Michael Mcintyre.”

If you visit Danny’s website https://dannyposthillofficial.co m/ you can arrange to have a personalised message from any of the above and many more to be sent to as a special greeting to a friend, family member or as a prank.

“I think it helps that my partner Aimee Cole is a dancer and choreographer so we both have to make allowances for the other’s working pattern and it certainly makes life easier for us both.”

From early days working at the Yaramar Hotel in Fuengirola, to his time in Mallorca (where he still performs regularly) and of course his aunt being here means that he is drawn back regularly and he and Aimee will be holidaying in Spain in September.

That is if a prospective script for a TV series which he has written doesn’t suddenly take off!

Credit: Dany Posthill Facebook

Danny and Aimee outside Villa Tiberio.

CELEB INTERVIEW

Anna Ellis HOTELBEDS is seeing a notable rise in consumer demand for luxury travel with travellers around the world seeking more premium experiences than ever before.

The United States, Mexico and Europe are among the largest source markets for luxury travel for Hotelbeds, while travellers from India (109 per cent), Australia (216 per cent), China (78 per cent) and Spain (66 per cent) have been increasingly looking for a premium experience over the

Betty Henderson

66 per cent

“The post­Covid carpe diem mentality shows no sign of abating.”

past year versus the previous 12 months.

Nicolas Huss, Hotelbeds’ Chief Executive Officer, doesn’t see this momentum subsiding any time soon.

SPAIN continues to bask in the glory of international recognition as it adds another accolade for its tourism industry. The Spanish city of Bilbao was named as one of the best cultural destinations in Europe by European Best Destinations. The tourism industry portal revealed their top picks in their Traveller Review Awards 2023, released on Thursday, June 8. Bilbao emerged victorious in the ranking, leaving popular destinations across Europe trailing behind.

Bilbao was the only city in Spain to make the top 12 list which was created based on more than 500,000 votes from travellers from more than 178 countries globally.

The north city rose above the competition to

The CEO added: “Travellers want to make the most of every day and they don’t want to compromise. We’re seeing spending on travel remaining a top consumer priority with people actively seeking unforgettable trips and are willing to pay for a high­quality experience.”

Cultural crown

claim its spot among the world’s cultural elites thanks to its unique attractions. Bilbao’s charming old town, culinary delights, the iconic Guggenheim Museum, and its unusual spider sculpture helped to secure its well­deserved position on the European Best Destinations list.

These awards celebrate exceptional accommodations, transportation services, local experiences, in cities and regions and are highly regarded in the international community.

The incredible rating goes to show Bilbao’s cultural wealth and its opportunities for visitors.

Image: Antonio Guillem Shutterstock.com

Luxu ry travel on increase.

Property pursuit

Betty Henderson

AMERICAN business magnate Warren Buffet has set his sights on Spain’s booming property market.

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Buffett’s luxury property firm, recently expanded its presence in Spain with a second office in Malaga. The company announced plans to continue growing by targeting the Canary Islands, Balearic Islands, and the Mediterranean coast on Friday, June 9.

CEO Christy Budnick sees immense potential in Spain’s luxury housing sector. She is pleased with the company’s progress, focusing on exclusive areas in Barcelona, Madrid, and Mar­

Anna Ellis

SPAIN’S unemployment fell by 49,260 people in May to 2,739,110.

The decline extends to all economic sectors, to all autonomous communities and to both men and women. The rate of monthly percentage decline in youth unemployment is double the overall rate.

The number of people registered in the State Public Employment Service Offices (SEPE) at the end of May fell

bella. Despite rising interest rates affecting the property market, Budnick believes luxury property prices will continue to rise, especially in exclusive locations. The Covid­19 pandemic has shifted housing preferences, with buyers seeking comfortable homes with outdoor spaces for family and friends.

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services acquired Catalan firm GTS last year and is considering acquiring companies in Ibiza, the Costa Brava, and the Valencia region to strengthen its Spanish presence as well as its ventures in Mallorca.

The luxury property business has a presence in 14 different countries across the globe.

More in work

by 49,260 people (­1.77 per cent) compared to the previous month.

Registered unemployment stood at 2,739,110 people, the lowest figure for the month of May since 2008.

This is a very positive decline in the context of quality recruitment and record highs in both affiliation and the labour force.

In year­on­year terms, un­

employment has fallen by 183,881 people, a hefty percentage drop of 6.29 per cent. Unemployment of young people under 25 fell in May by 7,208 people (­3.69 per cent) compared with the previous month, doubling the percentage rate of the general decrease. The total number of unemployed young people is the lowest in the historical series: 188,043 people.

British Embassy Party

IT was with great pleasure that the proprietors of Euro Weekly News , Michel and Steven Euesden were invited to the Spring Cocktail Party at the British Ambassador’s Residence in Madrid on Tuesday June 6.

It was a glorious day and there was a very large number of guests who took advantage of the large garden which gave them the opportunity to chat with friends old and new. Temperatures were soaring in Madrid, a true reflection on the world of commerce in the region and it seems that the after effects of Brexit and Covid now seem to be a distant memory.

Speaking to those present, Ambassador Hugh Elliott explained that interrelationships between Spain and the rest of the world have never seemed to have been in such a sturdy state. The investments coming in from South America are most definitely making the economic recovery a far easier journey with regards to the economic growth of Spain and the region and coincidentally there has been a massive hike in property prices in this region.

La Cámara, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce saw a change of President ­ Hugh Elliott gave a massive thanks and round of applause to demonstrate his appreciation for all the work done by Aida Garcia ­ and welcomed the opportunity to work with

lawyer and long­standing member of the BCC, Ralph Smith.

The Ambassador was in excellent form on this occasion and Olaf Clayton was a wonderful networker and introducer which comes as no surprise given his role in the British Benevolent Fund, which is the oldest charity for foreigners in Spain today and Olaf is THE conduit of communication between a problem and a solution.

Be it a victim of domestic abuse ­ violence ­ dependency ­ when all help fails us the foreigner here in our adopted land ­ Olaf and his team somehow find the resources to offer a solution.

It was a superb evening of celebration and almost gaiety, although the tide of business attire did not reflect the optimism and excitement of times to come here in Spain

It is getting towards the end of the tenure of Hugh Elliott and although the Euesdens have said it about the past three Ambassadors they do

believe he has survived some hard times with aplomb.

He is very much like the IF character of Rudyard Kipling… IF ­ you can keep your head when those around you are losing theirs … They were and he did!

Apart from the many people they met at the event, Michel and Steven were pleased to catch up with their friend Derek Langley of the British Chamber of Commerce and would like to thank the Ambassador for such a superb evening of commercial celebration ­ it was an honour to be invited.

Olaf Clayton with Michel and Steven Euesden. Ambassador Elliott and Steven Euesden.

Guests at the event.

Jetflix and chill

FANS of the newly released movie The Little Mermaid are flooding online to book their own under­the­sea adventure on the shores of Sardinia, with months of build up to the release driving a 216 per cent increase in search results on the easyJet Holidays website.

As set­jetting gains popularity, fuelled by the prevalence of international settings in popular TV shows and movies, easyJet Holidays has discovered a significant yearon­year increase in searches for destinations providing TV

escapism. The Little Mermaid isn’t the only watch fuelling demand for European travel.

Unsurprisingly, the second season of Emmy­winning drama The White Lotus has also seen a tourism spike of 198 per cent to Sicily as wander­

LATEST figures show that visitors donated more than £2.5 million to the National Trust through purchasing second­hand books at Trust properties in 2022.

lusters seek to holiday like wealthy but miserable romantic Tanya McQuoid­Hunt and her put­upon assistant, Portia. Whilst the premiere season of House of the Dragon, has inspired die hard ‘Thronies’ to flock to the Spanish city of Granada, which has seen a 132 per cent increase in searches. Similarly, the iconic capital of France is seeing unwavering interest year on year as hopeful romantics yearn for their own Emily in Paris experience, recording a 143 per cent increase.

Record-breaking

This record­breaking income for the Trust in this area could in part be reflective of the growing awareness amongst society of the need to reduce and reuse in a bid to cut consumption. This has been seen particularly strong amongst those with small children, with books aimed at this audience making up

a higher proportion of donations. The rapid growth in the pre­loved economy that was reported by the Centre for Economics and Business Research last October as a result of the cost of living crisis could also be a factor.

The Centre said that Britain’s pre­loved market grew to approximately £6.5 billion in 2022 and it is expected to double to £12.6 billion over the next five years. The Trust has also seen an increasing number of rare and high­value books making an appearance.

Adventure in Sardinia.

Image: Visit Sardinia / Facebook

Anna Ellis

THE Stars Gala is celebrating its 10th anniversary by bringing together the great stars of world ballet at the Teatro Principal in Alicante on July 22 at 8.00pm.

The event, an essential part of the city’s summer programme, will bring together nearly 100 young artists from the Russian Master’s Ballet (RMB) and live musicians.

The gala will feature a stellar cast of principal dancers from the largest theatres in Europe including Anna Ol, Young Guy Choi, Yolanda Correa, Ricardo Castellanos, Svetlana Bednenko, Nelson López,

Stars Gala

Evgeniya V González, and more artists to be confirmed. Tickets are available by phone (+34) 965 202 380 or from the Teatro Chapi Box office between midday and 2.00pm and 5.00pm until 9.00pm.

For more information on this ballet star­studded event, head to the website: www.teatroprincipaldeali cante.com, email: informa cion@teatroprincipaldeali cante.com or call (+34) 965 203 100. The theatre is located in Plaza Chapí, s/n­03001 Alicante.

Drinking squirrel

BLAS FERNANDEZ has won the 10th Alicante Renace 2023 Photographic Contest with a fantastic photo of a drinking squirrel.

The nature photography contest Alicante Renace 2023 was organised by the Association Enamorados de Alicante. The organisation invited participants to upload nature

Three-course fundraiser

IF you are looking for an evening full of entertainment then look no further than the local fundraiser in aid of the Easy Horsecare Rescue Centre.

The three ­ course dinner will take place on Tuesday, June 20, at 7.30pm at Pimientos Restaurant, Calle Murcia, 2, 03193, San Miguel.

Enjoy live music by the rock and pop duo Peoples People and guests and also an exhibition of paintings by Nicola Harrison

Guitar Festival

THE 25th edition of Elche’s Guitar Festival, Festival de Guitarra: Ciutat d’Elx, will be held from July 24 to 30.

photographs and in exchange, a tree would be planted; in addition, prizes were between €100 and €500.

The exhibition of the best 100 photographs is on until August 31 at the Torre del Sarrio, Glorieta. Dep Carolina Pascual, Alicante. Entry is free. Visit concejalia.medioambi ente@alicante.es for info.

Booking is essential either by email: dining apimientosrestaurant.co m or by phone at (+34) 966 723 657.

The cost of the evening is €35 ­ €5 of which will go to the charity.

Founded in 2008, the Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre non ­ profit rescue centre saves neglected,

abused and abandoned equines in Spain

The charity’s mission is to rescue and rehabilitate abused, neglected and abandoned horses, ponies and donkeys while campaigning for the better treatment of animals across Spain. They are a no ­ kill foundation and provide each

rescued animal with a safe and loving sanctuary ­ either at their centre or via rehoming ­ for the rest of their lives.

For more information about the charity and how you can help, head to the website: www.easyhorsecare.net or email: rescue@easy horsecare.net

Free guided tours

Anna Ellis TORREVIEJA’S Natural History Museum is offering free guided tours in English (and Spanish!) until the end of June.

The Museum, located on Avenida Estacion s/n, is open Friday to Sunday from 10.00am to 1.00pm and Friday afternoon from 5.00pm to 7.00pm.

During the guided tour, a biodiversity expert will guide you through the museum and show you some of the most outstanding specimens.

The Natural History Museum of Torrevieja has speci­

mens of mammals, ornithology, herpetology, ichthyology, marine invertebrates and malacology.

There are also collections of original bird nests and replica eggs of a total of 17 species of birds native to the area.

In addition, the museum has an impressive collection of marine molluscs from the Mediterranean Sea.

For more information, the Natural History Museum can be contacted on (+34) 966 706 838.

Prior registration for a tour is required at: turismod etorrevieja.com

Attendees will be able to enjoy the performances of talented artists such as Ema Kapor, Alvaro Pierri, Ines Martins de Sousa and Lyrik Duo, Antonio Carone, Deo Cordas et Bentu and the members of the Association of Open Music Guitarists, as well as one of the most anticipated moments of the contest: the final guitar contest.

All the performances will have free admission, except for the Alvaro Pierri concert, which will cost €15. Tickets for this concert can be purchased at the door of the Cloister one hour before it begins on June 26 at 9.30pm.

Crazy about Colours

THE Torrevieja Yacht Club has become home to a very special exhibition. Enjoy the exhibition Crazy about Colours, Loco de Colores, which is a sample of paintings and small sculptures made in bronze, iron and ceramics by the artist Catlin Schlosser. The exhibition with free entry is open to the public until June 30 and offers a unique opportunity to explore the work of an artist whose sensibility has been shaped over the years by circumstances.

Catlin Schlosser Bautista was born in Hungary in 1952, lived in Sweden for many years and now resides in Torrevieja. This life trajectory is reflected in her work.

The exhibition is being held at the Real Club Nautico de Torrevieja.

For more information: https://www.rcnt.com/ or call +34 965 710 112.

RESCUE CENTRE: Caring for abandoned horses.

Image: Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre / Facebook

Anna Ellis

A PACK of robotic dogs have been harnessed to help Dounreay with monitoring work on site. Dounreay is a small settlement and the site of two large nuclear establishments on the north coast of Caithness in the Highland area of Scotland. Spot, a robotic quadruped dog from Boston Dynamics, has the ability to climb stairs, avoid obstacles, and move over rough ground, allowing it to monitor and collect data in hazardous areas.

Heather Fairweather, the innovation team’s project manager for the work, confirmed: “Spot is not just a gimmick; it’s a practical tool that we can use to survey and monitor in areas where people should not or cannot go.

“I believe that this is the way forward where operators can minimise their dose rates but still get the job done. It’s not to replace operators,

THE UK’S National Railway Museum’s largest ever familyfocused visitor experience named Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery is set to open on Saturday, July 22.

The first tickets are now available via the museum website and, to celebrate, residents of York can upgrade their day ticket to an annual visitor pass for no extra charge.

The museum is also moving to a permanent seven­day opening for the first time since

Robot dogs

but to help them.”

The work at Dounreay complements and builds on the recent deployment of Spot at Sellafield, demonstrating how learning is being shared across sites to deliver better outcomes, move people further away from harm and decommission more efficiently.

Wonderlab

the Covid­19 pandemic reflecting a significant return in visitor numbers at one of the region’s busiest attractions.

Over the two­week Easter holiday, the National Railway Museum received more than 52,000 visitors ­ boosted by the visit of Flying Scotsmanachieving more footfall than in the same period in 2019, prior to the pandemic.

Rose Mockford, of the National Railway Museum, said: “Wonderlab will celebrate the inventiveness and wonder of engineering, science and the railways and it will enable thousands of young visitors to take the first steps on their journeys of creativity, experimentation and finding solutions to the challenges of the future.”

SPOT: Can monitor and collect data.

Image: UK Government / NDA

PRESS EUROPEAN

DENMARK

Dry spell

ON June 7 Denmark’s meteorological agency DMI announced that the country had seen no rainfall for more than two weeks, the longest dry period in 17 years. Episodes without precipitation could be related to climate change, they said, although this was an area of ongoing research.

THE NETHERLANDS

Night out

A COMPUTER outage disrupted rail travel in Amsterdam and also affected other parts of the Netherlands on June 4 and 5, the Dutch railway company NS said. Hundreds were stranded and 150 people spent the night at Amsterdam's Ziggo Dome concert hall, unable to return home after a Harry Styles concert.

BELGIUM

SpyING

BELGIUM’S public prosecution service launched an investigation following complaints from the BBTK union that ING had accessed the emails of around 2,000 of its employees. According to the union, the bank viewed email traffic following the dismissal of a BBTK member alleged to have leaked sensitive information.

GERMANY

More nurses

AS part of a bid to attract more skilled workers from non-EU countries to the German employment market, Germany and Brazil have signed a declaration of intent for “fair immigration.” The main focus is on nursing, a field in which Germany faces a growing shortage, Labour minister Hubertus Heil said.

FRANCE

Not trending

THE draft of a new law regulating the activities of social media influencers, approved by French politicians from all parties, will curb the promotion of dangerous products and trends with fines and even prison terms. “We can be proud of this unprecedented agreement,” declared senator Amel Gacquerre.

NORWAY

Helping hand

NORWAY’S emergency services rescued a Russian who needed medical assistance while on board a scientific vessel stuck in ice near the North Pole. The authorities dispatched a helicopter from Longyearbyen, which was 500 nautical miles (926 kilometres) away from the ship and only just within range.

FINLAND

Not safe

FIGURES released by the Finnish Crash Data Institute (OTI) revealed that half of the people who were killed in urban accidents between 2012 and 2021 were pedestrians or cyclists. The same figures showed that 44 per cent of the pedestrians who died in built-up areas were killed on zebra crossings.

IRELAND

New idea

SOME archaeologists are beginning to question the accepted theory that Ireland’s first human inhabitants arrived from Scotland. In prehistoric times the Irish and Welsh coastlines were much closer than they are now, they pointed out, suggesting they could have crossed from Pembrokeshire into southeast Ireland.

ITALY

Home again

LAST year the US authorities returned 58 looted antiquities worth $19 million (€17.7 million) to Italy. Very often stolen from archaeological sites and smuggled out of the country over the past 50 years, they included 27 items seized from the Met in New York and the collection of billionaire Michael Steinhardt.

PORTUGAL

Angola aid

ANGOLA and Portugal signed a new cooperation agreement covering 13 areas ranging from finance to legal issues which will be in force until 2027. “We have significantly increased our line of credit from €1.5 billion to €2 billion,” Portugal’s prime minister Antonio Costa announced while visiting Luanda.

UKRAINE

Looking ahead

THE World Bank will support Ukraine with a rapid assessment of damage and needs after the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka hydroelectric dam. Anna Bjerde, the World Bank’s managing director for operations, estimated that it would cost $411 billion (€381.3 billion) to rebuild Ukraine’s economy after the Russian invasion.

SWEDEN

New route

UNPRECEDENTED confiscations of cocaine in Sweden in recent months highlighted the country’s increasing role as a gateway for cocaine from Latin America to the rest of Europe. Swedish customs seized 460 kilos of cocaine during their latest haul at Helsingborg port, according to a government statement.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Budget meltdown

WOKING Council is effectively bankrupt with debts of £2 billion (€2.3 billion) following predecessors’ risky investments involving skyscrapers and hotels. Its chief executive said the full impact on residents was not yet clear, but all spending for non ­ essential services had been halted after issuing a Section 114 notice.

Fully-owned

AFTER obtaining a 60 per cent stake in 2021 and increasing this to 62.5 per cent last year, Santander Bank bought the remaining 37.5 per cent of its Brazilian subsidiary Toro Investimentos. Santander did not reveal the sums involved on acquiring the online brokerage company, which has 1.3 million clients.

Sad loss

THE death was announced on June 7 of Sir Ivan Menezes (63), British ­ American long ­ time chief executive of Diageo, following a brief illness. He joined London­listed £75 billion (€87.2 billion) Diageo, now the world’s largest spirits manufacturer, after its formation following the 1997 merger of Guinness and Grand Metropolitan.

Nadal plans

FOLLOWING the success of Tatel in Madrid, and the Toto Italian restaurants, tennis ace Rafael Nadal and Baleares hoteliers, the Matutes family, intend to open similar restaurants in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. There are also future plans for more eateries in Marbella, London, New York and Milan.

Tough times

CHALLENGING months lay ahead, the owner of the Simply Be and JD Williams home shopping companies warned after going into the red. Shares in N Brown Group, which also owns men’s clothing brand Jacamo, slumped after reporting annual losses of £71.1 million (€82.6 million) for the year ending on March 4.

Linda

Hall

SPAIN will ask Brussels for a total of €94 billion from the Next Generation’s Recovery and Resilience plan introduced to offset the after­effects of the pandemic.

“This will activate all the transfers and loans that have been assigned to Spain,” announced Nadia Calviño, who is the government’s principal vice­president as well as minister of Economic Affairs minister.

Addressing the June 6 Cabinet meeting, Calviño explained that Spain has also added a request for a further €10.3 billion to its initial recovery plan via the Next Generation fund. This will be used for 12

STAT OF WEEK €1.5 billion

plans to build Spain’s biggest shopping centres in Torremolinos and Valencia have been renewed by Eurofund Group following changes in the local governments after the May 28 elections.

More cash from Brussels

CALVIÑO: Spain has applied for all assigned EU cash, Economic Affairs minister said.

strategic projects that are already underway, she said.

The €84 million in ‘soft’ loans will provide Spain with a safety net which would permit ‘a strong rhythm’ of public and private investment for the future.

Calviño stressed that

CHIEF executives at companies linked to the UK’s soaring household bills have enjoyed multimillion paydays.

According to figures released on June 6, the National Grid, Sainsbury’s and Marks & Spencer rewarded their top people with top earnings although all have been accused of profiteering from food inflation and the energy crisis resulting from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

National Grid’s John Pettigrew received £7.2 million (€8.4m) for the last financial year, compared with £6.6 million (€7.7m) in 2021 according to the FTSE 100’s Power Networks Company. Pettigrew’s fixed pay fell although his variable pay, which included bonuses and long­term incentives, increased

Sandals in

PROFITS slid by 10 per cent for Dr Martens boots, the Northampton company’s most famous product. Sales fell 10 per cent in 2022 following errors in the US after the company concentrated on other items and battled problems at its Los Angeles warehouse.

Distribution in Latin America and China was also affected. In contrast, the footwear specialist said that sales of its sturdy sandals and shoes rose by approximately 50 per cent and represented approximately a third of total sales.

The ‘challenging consumer environment’ also produced a fall in demand in the US owing to high inflation, the company announced.

Best yet

These loans will be channelled through various financial vehicles, Calviño said, citing the Autonomous Communities’ Resilience Fund, which would be allocated €20 billion to finance sustainable investment projects.

MAHOU SAN MIGUEL reported a €1.7 billion turnover last year, 18.4 per cent more than in 2021 and the best figure in its history.

this did not imply an immediate increase in the country’s debt as there will be a 30 ­ year repayment period with an extra 10 years’ grace. The government calculates that this works out at around 35 basis points cheaper than raising the money through Treasury bonds.

The EU cash is to be handled in collaboration with the European Investment Bank, the vice­president said, although the Official Credit Institute would channel a further €22.5 billion to be used for business projects ­ particularly those involving green investment ­ with €1 billion set aside for tourism.

Payday bonanza

year and earned £4.9 million (€5.7m), overtaking his rival at Tesco, the UK’s largest supermarket chain, after reaching profit, cashflow and personal targets.

The increase was partly due to a £2.3 million (€2.7m) long­term bonus, although Roberts also received a £1.7 million (€1.9m) annual bonus together with a 3.5 per cent rise that brought a £905,625 (€1.05m) salary.

Sales were boosted by higher consumption of beer and water, the company said, although net profits fell by 0.8 per cent to €102.1 million, affected by lower margins owing to higher costs.

These were not entirely passed on to consumers, while the company explained that it spent €499.2 million31 per cent more ­ on modernising factories, as well as a 6 per cent rise to reduce the impact of inflation on Mahou San Miguel’s 4,068 employees.

Good news

THE Organisation for Economic Co­operation and Development (OECD) increased Spain’s 2023 growth forecast from 1.7 to 2.1 per cent.

The OECD also increased its 2024 forecast from 1.7 to 1.9 per cent.

from £5.2 million (€6m) to nearly £6 million (approximately €7m).

Simon Roberts, Sainsbury’s chief executive received a 3.5 per cent rise last

Bank takes action

THE Daily and Sunday Telegraph will be auctioned off after their owners, the Barclay family, lost control of their two principal media assets.

Earlier, Lloyds Banking Group had threatened to put Press Acquisitions, which owns the newspapers’ parent company Telegraph Media Group (TMG), into administration after the breakdown of talks regarding loans that had accumulated over time.

On June 7, the UK media reported that Lloyds had appointed consultants AlixPartners as the official receiver for the Barclay family’s shares in the holding company which controls both newspapers and the Spectator magazine.

‘Multiple’ sources revealed that the bank, finally frustrated over repayment of a loan of ‘hundreds of millions’ of pounds, had decided to take action by removing Barclay family­appointed board members before auctioning the Telegraph titles and the Spectator magazine.

As sales and profits jumped, Stuart Machin, Marks & Spencer’s co­chief executive, received £2 million (€2.9m) last year, which included a £1 million (€1.16m) bonus.

Push off

UK banks will eventually have to refund all victims of authorised push payment (APP) fraud within a week.

These scams occur when criminals trick victims into handing over a security code sent by their bank, allowing them to ransack their accounts.

Last year victims lost £485.2 million (€564.4 million) to this type of fraud, but banks are currently not obliged to refund them, although many have signed a voluntary agreement requiring them at least to consider cases.

In practice, however, banks refuse to pay around half of APP fraud refunds but Britain’s Payment Systems Regulator plans to introduce stringent rules for refunding customers in 2024.

The organisation placed Spain’s economic progress at the head of the eurozone, expecting growth of approximately 0.9 per cent this year and 1.5 per cent in 2024.

In the “challenging environment” caused the Ukraine war, the OECD predicted that inflation in Spain would fall more rapidly than anticipated, averaging 3.9 per cent both this year and in 2024.

CBI wins vote

THE Confederation of British Industry emerged unscathed from a confidence vote in London on Tuesday June 6.

Ninety­three per cent of the 371 members of Britain’s foremost business lobby group backed proposals to overhaul its ‘governance, culture, and purpose’ in the wake of sexual misconduct allegations. The result was “a really strong mandate from our members,” the CBI’s director general, Rain Newton ­ Smith said although leading companies including Aviva, BMW, BT, John Lewis, Marks and Spencer and Rolls Royce, have either left or suspended their membership.

NADIA

NATIONAL GRID: Chief executive John Pettigrew received €8.4 million last year.

Photo credit: Pool Moncloa, Borja Puig de la Bellacasa

Photo credit: Pexels/Jan van Bizar

LONDON - FTSE 100

DOW JONES

Turkish delight

STRUGGLING Asos shares rose by 7 per cent following reports in the Sunday Times that it had received a £1 billion (€1.16 billion) takeover bid from the Turkish online retailer Trendyol last December.

Asos, which owns Topshop and Miss Selfridge, was valued at between £10 and £12 (€11.64 and €13.96) a share by Trendyol.

Old favourite

LINGERIE and stockings

company Marie Claire, founded in 1907, is in talks with the unions, employees and clients that include El Corte Ingles to find a solution that will allow it to survive. If an answer cannot be found, the firm will be obliged to start insolvency proceedings involving the loss of 280 jobs.

Whistle-blowing pays

Linda Hall

THE UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is stepping up its enforcement work against illegal cartels. These are businesses which cheat customers by agreeing not to compete in order to keep prices high, stopping the public and other firms from getting a fair deal and also stifling competition.

People who tell the CMA about unlawful cartel activity they have witnessed can now claim a reward of up to £250,000 (€290,308), in ­

Domestic priorities

IBERIA’S domestic flights provide 1,852 jobs and contribute €130 million to Spain’s gross domestic product as well as €199 million to tourism. Spurred by France’s decision to eliminate routes that could be covered by train in two and a half hours, the airline, together with consultants PwC, analysed the consequences of introducing a similar measure in Spain.

Economic considerations apart, the study

also established that 40 per cent of passengers took domestic flights to connect with another flight.

Eradicating these flights would require between eight and 10 high speed trains, connecting travellers with Spain’s Adolfo Suárez­Madrid Barajas airport on an hourly basis.

“At present there are none,” pointed out Iberia’s Sales director Beatriz Guillén.

No win

creased from £100,000 (€116,134).

“Businesses that participate in cartels, knowing them to be illegal, often go to great lengths to keep the cartel hidden and secret,” the CMA said.

“This makes them difficult to detect and harder to bring eliminate.”

The CMA’s ‘Cheating or Competing’ campaign has advice for people and businesses to help them spot, report and deter illegal anticompetitive practices. It encourages those who have witnessed illegal activity to report it by protecting their anonymity as well as offering a reward.

Businesses found to have been involved in illegal cartels can be fined up to 10 per cent of their annual turnover. Individuals directly involved can face up to five years in prison, while company directors risk disqualification from holding directorial positions for up to 15 years.

CORREOS cancelled the fouryear, €67 million contract for telecommunications services that it signed with Telefonica in February.

The decision to cancel the deal followed an appeal from Telefonica’s rival Orange, previously barred from the tender for alleged breaches, after the French company complained that revealing Telefonica’s financial offer had put all the other competing companies at a disadvantage.

Playing safe

JOHN LEWIS PARTNERSHIP, which experienced a third year of losses and axed the staff bonus for only the second time since 1953, is spending more than £1 million (€1.16 million) on revitalising its children’s range. Executive director for John Lewis, Naomi Simcock, said the business wanted to create “an immersive experience” and a destination, “not just a shop.”

ILLEGAL CARTELS: Britain’s CMA will pay for information

Photo credit: Pixabay/elbgau

Beer crisis

SMALL craft beer manufacturers are going out of business as consumers choose cheaper options due to the cost of living crisis. Forty­five breweries entered insolvency in the year ending March 31 compared with 15 in 2022, according to Insolvency Service statistics.

Bank on it

SPAIN’S BBVA and Santander banks are amongst those handling America Movil’s 130 billion peso (more than €7 billion) fiveyear bond issue. The phone company, which is Telefonica’s principal rival in Latin America, is also using the services of the HSBV, Citibank, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley and JP Morgan banks.

Cleaning up

MITIE, a UK professional services and outsourcing company, announced a record full­year £4.05 billion (€4.7 bn) compared to £4 billion (€4.6 bn) in 2022. Contract wins, renewals, acquisitions and inflationary contract repricing offset unrenewed contracts and the previous year’s benefits from shortterm Covid work.

Football fans

TURNER, a subsidiary of Spain’s ACS Group which is chaired by Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, will build the €1.4 billion New Highmark Stadium, future home of the Buffalo Bills American football team. The installation, with a capacity for 63,000 people, is due to open in 2026.

Ash cash

WE SODA, the world’s largest producer of natural soda ash, will be 2023’s first major float in London. The Turkish chemicals giant announced that it would seek a stock market listing this year in a deal that could put a value of between £6 to £7 billion (€6.97 to €8.13 billion) on the company.

Brexit seen from afar

Linda Hall

BREXIT was a “historic economic error” that helped to fuel the UK’s high inflation, a former US Treasury chief declared.

Talking to the BBC’s Radio 4 Today programme, Larry Summers said Brexit and other policies meant Britain’s economic problems were more acute than those of most other major countries.

“The UK’s economic policy has been substantially flawed for some years,” Summers said.

“Brexit will be remembered as a historic economic error that reduced the competitiveness of the UK economy, put downward pressure on the pound and upward pressure on prices, limited imports

and the supply of labour,” he added.

This all combined to contribute to higher inflation, maintained the for­

Gigaplant

mer Secretary of the Treasury who had advised both Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.

Summers also slated the Bank of England, saying it had kept interest rates too low for too long, while the UK’s higher levels of inflation were reinforced by “very ill­judged” monetary policies that were too expansionary for too long.

The Bank of England has raised rates 12 times since the end of 2021, taking it to 4.5 per cent in May, although Summers said the only option was to stay the course with base rate hikes, although this would inevitably hit activity and growth.

“I’d be very surprised if Britain avoids a recession in the next two years,” he told the BBC.

Breaking more records

INDITEX earned a record €1.2 billion during the first quarter of the company’s fiscal year, 54 per cent more than during the same period in 2022.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda) increased by 14 per cent to €2.2 billion. Earnings before interest and taxes rose 43 per cent to €1.5 billion, while profits before tax rose by 52 per cent to €1.5 billion.

The Galicia ­ based clothing giant, which owns the Zara, Massimo Dutti and Bershka labels amongst others, pointed out that this year’s results were especially buoyant, bearing in mind that last year’s first quarter figures had included a €216 million provision for Russia and Ukraine.

“The Spring ­ Summer collections continue to be very well received by our customers,” the Inditex interim report revealed. “Store and online sales between May 1 and June 4 have also increased by 16 per cent compared with the same two months in 2022.”

The Board of Directors will propose a dividend of €1.20 per share for the 2022 fiscal year at

A MULTINATIONAL car manufacturer intends to build a €4.5 billion gigafactory in the Valencian Community. The news was initially reported in the regional daily Levante­EMV and subsequently the national publication, Cinco Dias.

The regional government has signed a confidentiality agreement with the company in question while negotiations are underway. Although no name has been revealed, Tesla was mentioned by sources close to the process. Should the project materialise, investment would top Volkswagen’s €3 billion plant producing battery cells for electric vehicles in Sagunto (Castellon), although this could increase to €4.5 billion by 2026 should annual production capacity increase from 40 gigawatts per hour to 60.

Pensions result

the Annual General Meeting to be held next July.

The first interim payment of €0.60 per share was made on May 2 this year and the final dividend payment will be paid on November 2, Inditex announced.

Looking elsewhere

BEFORE the Ukraine invasion, Spain imported Russian crude oil. Now it looks to Venezuela (258,000 tons during 2023’s first quarter), Ecuador (148,000 tons) and Trinidad and Tobago (101,000 tons).

Colombia exported 586,000 tons to Spain between January and April,

four times more than during the first quarter of 2022. Meanwhile, shipments from Brazil grew to slightly more than two million tons, compared to 1.5 million tons in the first four months of 2022. Mexico, which sold over 2.7 million tons to Spain between January and April ­ 46 per cent more

ASSOCIATED BRITISH FOODS (ABF) is buying dairy technology company National Milk Records (NMR).

The company, which owns Primark and Twinings, has struck the £48 million (€55.8 million) deal in a bid to strengthen its agrifoods division. ABF is paying 215p (€2.50) a share for the Chippenham­based firm, an 87 per cent premium on NMR’s closing price two days before the announcement.

The acquisition would “significantly” boost its agriculture food business, AB Agri, which currently works with over

than during the same period in 2022 ­ is now Spain’s principal supplier of crude oil, ahead of the 2.2 million tons imported from the US. In contrast, oil purchases from Africa fell by 26 per cent, while those from the Middle East, Europe and Eurasia dropped 14 per cent.

Milky way

2,000 dairy farms globally, ABF told its investors.

NMR, founded 80 years ago, was previously part of the Milk Marketing Board, which controlled the UK’s milk production and distribution and ensured a minimum price for dairy farmers.

The takeover will also improve farmers’ profits and productivity and accelerate NMR’s strategic objectives, ABF said.

THE second phase of Spain’s state pensions reform will boost the Social Security system’s income in line with Brussels’ call for improvements ensuring the scheme’s financial viability.

A Bank of Spain analysis of the government measures that was published on June 7 concluded that this is most likely to affect middle­aged, well­paid, highlyqualified employees who work for big companies. The Bank also calculated that this would raise Social Security revenue by 0.9 per cent of the gross domestic product in 2050, two­10ths of a percentage point below the government’s estimate.

Women losing out

A WOMAN’S private pension pot in the UK is usually worth 35 per cent less than a man’s on reaching 55. After analysing data for both sexes between 2018 and 2020, government researchers found that, on average, women will have accumulated just £65 (€75.5) for every £100 (€116) in men’s private pensions.

As a result, women risk losing out on thousands of pounds as a result of the greater numbers who work part­time, their lower overall earnings and more time off for childcare or other caring duties, the investigation concluded.

LARRY SUMMERS: Brexit ‘a big mistake’ according to the former Secretary of Treasury.

INDITEX: Earnings rose by 54 per cent during Zara owner’s first quarter.

AH well, where shall we start this week ­ what about with young Prince Harry? Firstly we can’t of course refer to the ginger whinger as ‘poor’ Harry. He is actually sitting on millions, or the wife is! This henpecked hustler is now using up his precious gift of time by endeavouring to get a whole corporation of journalists prosecuted for handing out publicity which made him feel uncomfortable when he was a teenager.

This, sadly pathetic individual, who has been brought up with no financial or real survival worries whatsoever, has now married a partner whose life has probably been positively riddled with obstacles.

This mixed race young actress, who, when you examine her friends and non­association with her own father, or her attitude toward British royalty, appears to rather dislike anyone bearing Caucasian originality, has now obviously succeeded beyond her wildest dreams. She has reached the staggering achievement of becoming a globally recognised

Fancy a bet?

Princess/Duchess, a Queen of Hollywood, a Royal sister ­ in ­ law and an advisor to the brother of the future king of England. Not bad apples. She obviously already rules the roost; in fact he’s actually just announced that he’s bringing the whole case just for her. That should get him a few cuddles! I’ll give ‘em a couple more years. Anyone fancy a bet?

Moving on. The conspiracy to bamboozle the public, particularly the youngsters, that the UK is a blissful society of mixed marriages and culturally entwined citizens is gaining ground by the day. Not only is the media now so full of misrepresentations and non­existent standards, it is guilty of committing enough false impressions to be up for prosecution. It has now been joined by the woke academics of the university of Cambridge, which is insisting to its students that Anglo Saxons actually didn’t exist as an ethnic group.

A further part of their conspiratorial efforts to undermine what they call the ‘myths of nationalism’. In other words they are now trying to

SAFER DRIVING OUR VIEW

maintain that our ancestors never truly existed.

This of course gives even more ammunition to the multi ­ culturist brigades who are intent on overpowering the rights of the millions of true Anglo Saxon descendants that still dominate the citizenship of the United Kingdom (85 per cent)! Are they winning? Well they may be under the impression that they are, but of course the true battle, which they are too full of their own importance to realise, is actually the ever growing threat of Artificial Intelligence.

When this takes over, which it will, all their bull…t attitudes and theories will disappear along with the rest of us firmly entrenched under the new rulers of our planet ­ the purveyors of Artificial Power. An outcome which will ultimately be impossible for any of us to compete with. Whatever colour or nationality you happen to be.

Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com expatradioscotland.com Mon and Friday 1pm till 3pm.

STRUGGLING TO SELL YOUR PROPERTY?

REBECCA SERWOTKA ­ “We sell houses! It’s what we do, it’s ALL we do!” Certified API Associate 00493. Your favourite local resale property expert, of Inmobiliaria Estate Agents in Ciudad Quesada. Prestige Award WINNER for Real Estate Agency Of The Year 2021/22 & 2022/23. Luxury Lifestyle Awards WINNER, Alicante Spain 2023.

The longer your property remains unsold, the higher the chances that potential buyers will overlook it. They may suspect that something is wrong with the property, especially when other homes in the same area are selling.

No matter what

price you believe your property is worth, its actual value is determined by the market. Ultimately, the value of a property is based on what a buyer is willing to pay for it. Even in a busy real estate market, buyers are unlikely to make offers on properties that are overpriced.

If your home has been on the market for a while without any offers, now is the ideal time to lower your asking price.

Contrary to common belief, Real Estate Agents do not have control over the market; instead, we navigate it. Allow me to help you navigate the current market and find a buyer for your property to

day!

IT must be assumed that speed limits in Spain are set with an eye to making it as safe on the road as possible for all parties.

However, it is not unusual to see drivers speeding and if the government really wanted to enforce the law and make a lot of money in fines, then speed cameras in every tunnel on every motorway would be the ideal option as few drivers seem able to drop from 120kph to the average 80kph which is the norm.

The Guardia Civil issue regular explanations about the proper use of lanes in roundabouts and considering how in Spain, roundabouts are almost national monuments with each being named and having special decorations, you would think that most drivers would understand the rules and follow them.

In the UK, drivers should stop if they see pedestrians waiting to move onto zebra crossings but pedestrians are taught to actually check the safety of the road whilst the Spanish seem to have a belief that they should just be able to walk straight onto the crossing expecting as a matter of fact that drivers will automatically stop for them even if the paint on the road is so indistinct that unless you know the area, you might not even be aware that the crossing exists. Perhaps one of the most dangerous habits in Spain is the fact that many drivers of school coaches simply don’t take any notice of the speed limits, especially on dual carriageways and whilst they are charged with delivering their charges safely to and from school, they not only speed but then stop wherever they feel like to drop the children off.

We help with your support

THE British Benevolent Fund was founded over a century ago to help those Britons in Spain facing extreme financial distress.

In that time the expat community has grown a hundredfold while the number of visitors has reached heights unforeseen back then.

Of the 18 million plus visitors from the UK to Spain each year the vast majority are without incident ­ and not all visitors are here for a two week break on the beach. Many come to see friends and family.

The UK consulates do an incredible job sorting out problems when they arise but many people are under the mistaken view that the consulates can also pay for someone’s repatriation or expenses if things go wrong.

Earlier this week we were alerted by a UK consular office of a young British woman who had come out to see her boyfriend who was working in a bar at a coastal resort.

She had planned to spend a few weeks ­ maybe longer and was thinking that maybe if things worked out she would stay and see how things went.

Nothing concrete ­ just an idea in her head to be with a guy she liked and was starting to think of something more long term.

It turned out to be the opposite ­ in fact within a few days she had already seen that not only was he a very heavy drinker but was violent towards her, so much so that the first day she was too numb to move.

He started attacking her the next night after a drinking session and hit her repeatedly causing injury. This time she screamed for help and fled into the night.

She was picked up by a Guardia Civil patrol and taken into town ­ she used the last of her money for a ticket home and tried to make the flight ­ but she arrived too late and had to contact the local consulate for help as she had no friends or family who could help ­ they in turn contacted the BBF to pay for her flight home which we were able to do on the same day.

She is now back home. We can only help people with your support. If you would like to make a donation please visit www.british benevolentfund.org to see how you can make the difference. Thank you on behalf of all the beneficiaries of your generosity.

Olaf Clayton, Chair BBF.

Olaf Clayton of BBF.

AI: Saviour or Destroyer?

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) has revolutionised the way we live and work, from improving healthcare to improving transporta tion systems. However, its increasing integration into our daily lives also raises significant concerns about the potential threats it poses. AI admittedly offers many advantages. Its ability to process vast amounts of data quickly means it can analyse complex issues such as climate change or disease outbreaks more efficiently than any human. Furthermore, in industries like manufacturing, transportation and logistics, automation using AI technology can significantly increase productivity while reducing labour costs ­ and lost days due to strikes! However, unchecked development of AI technology creates serious

threats. These include job displacement due to automation leading to mass unemployment; ethical considerations when AIs make decisions where moral judgement is required; and existential risks if AIs were allowed control over critical infrastructure such as nuclear power plants or weapons systems. Clearly a balanced approach between innovation and regulation is needed. Policymakers must prioritise developing regulations that ensure accountability for organisations utilising these technologies while promoting transparency around their use. Only then can we maximise the benefits offered by this double­edged sword while mitigating against unintended consequences that may arise from unregulated development of AI technology.

Nora Johnson’s 12 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers (www.nora­johnson.net) all available online including eBooks (€0.99; £0.99), Apple Books, audiobooks, paperbacks at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

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

NORA’S LATEST THRILLER.

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

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

Natural selection

NATURAL deodorants

without aluminium are supposedly safer than those we have been using for decades.

Dermatologists, skin microbiome experts and even an oncologist said there was no definitive evidence linking regular deodorants or antiperspirants to Alzheimer’s disease or breast cancer.

Neither do they destroy ‘good’ bacteria living under your arms or prevent armpits from eliminating ‘harmful toxins’ that build up in lymph nodes as was once claimed.

And natural deodorants can still contain problematic ingredients or substances that irritate your skin, the experts pointed out.

Slim down with good fats

Linda Hall

SOME foods have the same effect as weight loss drugs Wegovy and Ozempic, an Australian nutritionist revealed.

Originally created to help diabetes patients control their blood sugar, both mimic the GLP ­ 1 hormone, telling the pancreas to make more insulin.

They also make us feel full but, although safe, side effects can include nausea, constipation and diarrhoea.

Dr Emma Beckett, a senior lecturer in Food Science and Human Nutrition believes that good fats present in avocado, nuts and eggs produce the same effects, along with foods high in fermentable fibres like vegetables and whole grains.

“The nutrients that trigger GLP ­ 1 secretion are macronutrients,” Dr Beckett explained, writing in

academic publication, The Conversation.

“This is why high fat,

high fibre and high protein diets can all help you feel fuller for longer.”

Early start

IF you want to target ultra­processed foods, breakfast is the best time to start.

Eliminating habitual favourites like croissants, cereal and white toast, together with sweetened drinks, fruit juice or flavoured yoghurts, could cut your daily intake by more than a third, food expert Professor Tim Spector from King’s College London said.

“Substitute them with natural yoghurt and mixed nuts, mixed beans or mushrooms on sourdough bread, or make a spinach and cheese omelette,” the professor advised in a podcast.

MACRONUTRIENTS: Lean protein like eggs trigger GLP-1.

Photo credit; Pixabay/Couleur

1 in 6 people experience mental health issues at work.

Unvarnished news LETTERS

I have recently taken on a new role with Euro Weekly News and am Editorial Consultant reviewing the type and style of articles that are published both in the seven weekly editions of the newspaper as well as the web page.

One story that we have been concentrating on, which appears to be ignored by much of the mainstream media, is the plight of some 104 followers of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light sect who have been arrested and allegedly tortured due to their beliefs in Turkey.

It has been quite incredible how many supporters of this peaceful faith community which follows many of the teachings of the Prophet Mohammed have read and responded to these articles thanking Euro Weekly News for reporting their case.

Many of the comments are in Arabic but EWN has arranged for them to be translated into English so that readers can understand their comments.

It is very heart­warming to know that the largest English language newspaper in Spain is reaching across the world and doing something, no mater how little, to spread the unvarnished news.

Visit https://euroweeklynews.com/ 2023/05/27/104­members­of­a­religiousminority­face­imprisonment­or­executionon­the­turkish­bulgarian­border/ to read the full story.

John Smith Editorial Consultant EWN

Tourism fight back

There is a Facebook group called ‘180 days in Spain’ trying to get the UK government to reach a bilateral agreement with the Spanish government giving UK citizens equal rights to those of EU citizens arriving in the UK, who can stay for six months without a visa. This would help UK citizens who own homes in Spain and allow for both Easter holidays and summer holidays.

David Candlish

To David Worboys

“Third, cats are discreet…”

And where do you think they poop? That’s right, they poop in the neighbour’s property! These selfish animals keep their home clean. That’s why they prefer the clean garden of the neighbour ­ very social!

Maybe people will get cats because they have the same mindset and traits ­ BRAVO! Sometimes your column is useful, but this time it was an ill­considered own goal...

Regards

Ralph / Torre del Mar

Hi Anna

Just a quick thank you for running our football donation article. It was a great advert for the club.

Regards Duncan

Leapy

You’re welcome Graham. Yours is the first page I turn to when the paper comes out every week. I like a person who speaks their mind, and I sometimes share your column with friends in Britain. Many say that wouldn’t be allowed over there, but like your honesty.

Keep up the good work.

Hi Lee

Regards

Colin

100% agree with your comments in EWN I presume that you have read ‘Brave New World’ by Aldous Huxley. Prescient is a word that comes to mind.

Have you looked at Reform Party? I reckon they deserve a chance.

Vids worth watching:

History debunked

Rotten Politics

Mahyar Tousi

...and in USA:

Crossroads with Joshua Philipp

Best regards and keep up the great work!! Max

Jumped ship

Well, I expect you have heard by now that Britain’s answer to Trump has resigned. Even in his resignation statement Boris Johnson can’t tell the truth. He isn’t being forced out anti democratically. His departure is a nail in the Brexit coffin, which I expect you will have a comment to make about. He’s looked at the report, he knows the damage it will create, so he is avoiding the humiliation. He jumped before he was pushed.

I expect you know that there are now eight ex PMs and they are entitled to public financial support which was established after Margaret Thatcher resigned. The PDCA allows a former prime minister to claim up to £115,000 a year paid for by the tax payer. Of course they can earn a lot more on top of that by travelling around the world making speeches, while the average British tax payer struggles to pay electricity, gas, water and food bills.

Trump and Johnson are both Americans, both born in New York, both got silly hair cuts, both lie. The only difference is Johnson hasn’t got a ginger face.

Regards

Colin

PETS

Caring for birds

PET birds are unique and fascinating companions, offering a different experience compared to more traditional pets such as dogs and cats. Caring for these exotic creatures may seem daunting, but with a little knowledge and dedication, you can provide a loving and nurturing environment for your feathery friend.

A bird’s cage serves as its home, providing a safe and comfortable space for it to live in. Ensure the cage is spacious enough for your pet bird to stretch its wings and move about freely. Also make sure it is away from direct sunlight, draughts, and extreme temperatures and filled with everything it needs like perches of various sizes and materials for foot exercise and comfort, food and water dishes that are easily accessible and easy to clean, and safe toys

House-sitters care for dogs

for mental stimulation and entertainment. Regular cleaning is a must.

A well­rounded diet is essential for your pet bird’s overall health. Avoid feeding your bird an all­seed diet, as this can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Offer your bird a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables just make sure to avoid feeding your bird avocado, chocolate, caffeine, or alcohol, as these can be toxic to them.

Finally, dedicate time each day to interact with your pet bird through play, training, and cuddling, and allow your bird to spend time outside of their cage daily, under close supervision. Ensure the room is safe, with all windows and doors closed, and remove any potential hazards. This time outside of the cage allows your bird to explore, stretch their wings, and bond with you.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

HOUSE-SITTERS can play a vital role in the care of pet dogs, especially in the summer months when we tend to holiday away from home. Most of our house­sitters have dog care experience and know that keeping them cool and entertained and healthy while you are a way is vital. House­sitters can help you with that.

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!

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

4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose. How does it work?

Catproofing hacks

HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert saying when you are going on holiday. House­sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter who’ll care for your pets.

Trustpilot Testimonials ­ 4.9 / 5 Excellent 10 out of 10 for 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 a pet or housesitter? Get in touch. House-sitting can be a win-win for both parties, free house and petsitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation! Register as either housesitter or homeowner with a 20% discount using coupon code 20EWN – Reader exclusive offer.

To find a house pet-sitter go to www.HousesitMatch.com

Summer fun

SUMMER is officially here, and that means it’s time to get outside and enjoy the sunshine with your furry best friend by

your side.

From dog­friendly festivals to outdoor concerts, and outdoor movie nights there are plenty of pet ­

friendly summer events that will have tails wagging in delight.

Summer is a perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors with your furry friend! Whether you’re headed to the beach or a nearby lake, there are so many activities you can explore together. You can go for a relaxing hike or even try your hand at camping. If you’re looking for some water ­ based fun, there are plenty of dog ­ friendly beaches and lakes where you can swim and play fetch together.

Just make sure you keep your pet safe and hydrated, especially if the weather is hot.

So why not grab your dog’s leash and start planning your next adventure? It’s a great way to bond and enjoy the sunny weather together!

AS much as we love our feline friends, their playful nature can wreak havoc on our furniture. Scratched couches, chairs, and tables are a familiar sight to most cat owners. However, catproofing your home does not mean sacrificing style for function.

Thankfully, there are some easy hacks you can use to keep your home safe and kittyfriendly. One simple trick is to cover up any exposed wires or cords so that your cat can’t chew through them.

Another is to keep fragile or valuable objects out of your cat’s reach by placing them on high shelves or in cabinets with secure doors.

Finally, make sure to keep all household cleaning products stored safely away from your cat’s reach. With these simple hacks, you can create a safe and happy home for you and your feline friend.

When it comes to having cats in the house, it’s important to set some boundaries right from the start. One of the best tips is to block off areas that are off­limits to your feline friends, such as stairs or high counters. This will help keep them safe and prevent any potential accidents from happening. Using childproof locks or gates is a great way to secure these areas and ensure that your cat doesn’t explore where it shouldn’t. Remember, creating a safe and comfortable environment for your cat is key to keeping them happy and healthy.

Benji loves swimming in a pond to keep cool in the summer months.

AIR CONDITIONING

ALARMS

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

ARTIFICIAL GRASS

CONSTRUCTION

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

CONSTRUCTION

BALUSTRADES

BLINDS

BUILDERS

BLINDS

PLUMBERS

ARCHITECT

CAMPELLO CONTRA CANCER

in conjunction with AECC Association Español Contra Cancer. Please support your local Cancer charity and if you wish to obtain literature or simply talk to someone. Please contact Mina or Trisha. Tel 650 071 278 or 610 921 413 e-mail aecc_campello@hotmail.com (95475)

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MABS) MURCIA/MAR MENOR

BUILDING SERVICES

J & J PAINTERS. Insideoutside - clean - fast - low cost. Torrevieja - Orihuela Costa and surrounding areas. Tel: 650 363 159

BUY & SELL

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

CARAVANS

MOBILE homes & static caravans bought, sold and transported. +34 630 055 418 or elsyd7@hotmail.com (294686)

CARS FOR SALE

Help and support is just a phone call away, Avda Rio Nalón, Tel: 693 275 779 (95462)

CHURCH SERVICE IN ENGLISH Tel: 950 617 549 www.givinglight.com.(10006)

FREEMASONRY . Are you aware that Freemasonry is thriving on the Costa Blanca?

There are various Lodges meeting up throughout the Valencia region. If you already are a Mason or simply wish to know more about Freemasonry in Spain please contact sec@glpvalencia. com Tel 600 841 064 (95477)

HELP VEGA BAJA. We are a non-profit making organisation that helps and supports anyone, without prejudice, in times of need or crisis within the Vega Baja area. Our offices are based in San Miguel at Calle Lope de Vega 46 (Tel 966 723 733), Torrevieja at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia 4 (Tel 965 704 282). We are online at www.helpvegabaja.com and also on Facebook. You can email the San Miguel Centre at office@helpvegabaja. com. We also have a 24hour Emergency helpline which is available to both members and non-members on 966 723 733 (95456)

CHARITY

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS IS ALCOHOL COSTING YOU MORE THAN MONEY? Drinking to excess not only affects your health it can spill over into every other aspect of your lifedamaging everything that is important to you. English-speaking AA meetings are held throughout the Costa Blanca from Valencia City to Murcia. Anyone wishing to attend a meeting or discuss a possible drinking problem contact Costa Blanca North: 648 169 045 or Costa Blanca South: 625 912 078 or Costa Calida 679 385 105 All calls are treated in the strictest confidence. AA in German: 645 456 075; Spanish: 679 212 535; Flemish: 635 047 053; and Scandinavian: 659 779 222. www.aa-costablan ca.org (93323)

PHILIP SCOTT LODGE No 10671 of the RAOB. Please call the secretary, Colin Bird on 693 287 614 for further information. (95459)

PILAR CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY CHURCH. All welcome from any church background or none. For further information, www.pi larchurch.org Reg No: 2009SG/A (95463)

ROYAL Air Force Association

Costa Blanca Registered Members Group: The RAFA Costa Blanca RMG replaces the RAFA Costa Blanca Branch 1359 which is now closed. The RMG is a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Association. Contact with the Royal Air Force Association and the RMG can be made via the RAFA website rafa.org. uk Tel:0044 800 018 2361. (238593)

ROYAL MARINES ASSOCIA -

TION (Costa Blanca) The aim of the Association is to bring together not just ex Royal Marines, but ex Service personnel with an affinity to the Royal Marines. For further details contact Hon Sec P S Wilkins Tel: 966 194 158 email: inkinspain@yahoo. co.uk (10004)

ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION

For information please contact Chairman Anthony Jenkins +34 693 866 709, Vice Chairman Dusty Miller +34 711 006 670, Secretary Mike Cockman +34 670 224 822, Treasurer Carl Louden +34 678 518 202, email rnatorre vieja@aol.com (95455)

For more details, contact Marion Smith on 711 008 250, or email: marion.smith@amscb. org.es, or you can find us on Facebook : fb@movers and shakers www.amscb.org.e s (295976)

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

MASSAGE

INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY, TORREVIEJA Calle Beniajan 16, Torrevieja 03185, Alicante Evangelical non-denominational church. Sunday morning Services at 11.00am. All nationalities welcome - Contact 966 752 543 / 966 799 273. For other church matters phone: 966 799 273 / /617 215 463 www.icatorre vieja.org (95476)

LA SIESTA EVANGELICAL CHURCH on Urbanisation La Siesta, Torrevieja is a friendly, English-speaking church. For more information, including details of our services, see our website www.lasiestaevangeli calchurch.org (10005)

CHARITY

ROYAL BRITISH LEGIONWhy not make this year the year you volunteer? See how you can help either as a caseworker (with full training) or as a Telephone Buddy. We also visit beneficiaries who are housebound or in hospital. If you feel you could support us here in Spain, and you have a Spanish phone number then why not email us for more info tbuddyhhvisits@gmail.com. If you or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us using the details on the card, we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control. It can be a personal need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly, just call and have a chat with Pam who will try to guide you to where you need to be. If you would like to go to a branch meeting then find your nearest one at, http://branches.britishlegion.o rg.uk/branches/orihuela-costa - covering from Punta Prima to San Javier. More info can be found on branch website www.orihuelacostarbl.co.uk. (95457)

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION

Gran Alacant & La Marina Branch. For info, contact the branch Secretary at granala cant.secretary@rbl.communi ty

STROKE ASSOCIATION Spain (formally known as Torrevieja stroke support) Our aim is to help and support stroke survivors and their carers, with rehabilitation, speech therapy, OC therapy and a very active social group. For info please contact 653 588 475 English and 620 907 474 Spanish or email strokesupportgroup@ hotmail.com , website: torre viejastrokesupport.org. We are always looking for volunteers who have the skills and knowledge to support. (95473)

THE ANGLICAN CHURCH, La Fustera. For more info: contact Frank Bentley on 966 495 188. (95461)

THE BAKER Foundation Spiritual Centre Playa Flamenca. Calle Luis Gordillo, 1 Playa Flamenca Alicante 03189. You can join us on Facebook, The Baker Foundation spiritual centre. Or contact Linda Schug Tel. 606 990 665 for more details (95458)

THE PATIENCE LODGE No 2177 of the R.A.O.B Please call Secretary Dave Tonge on 688 704 091 for further information. (253807)

THE SPIRITUALIST CENTRE, Benijofar meets at Hamilton’s Bake House, 62 Calle Vicente, Blasco Ibañez, Benijofar 03178. We hold a Sunday Sevrice at 11.30am. For further information: www.spiritualistcentre-benijo far.com . Telephone 711 060 171. Email martindroute 66@hotmail.com . Fiscal G54713789

MOVERS AND SHAKERS We are a non-profit organisation that supports people and their families with neurological diseases such as; HUNTINGTON’S, ATAXIA, MOTOR NEURONE, MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS and PARKINSON’S. Our MOVERS AND SHAKERS CLUB held every Friday @ 1pm –3pm, is a chance for members to meet up socially, for a drink and a chat on a full range of topics and to exchange ideas and information. The club is held at O’Briens Bar in El Raso, Guardamar del Segura (except July and August).

ELECTRICIAN FOR SALE/WANTED

MR FIXIT . For all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance & boiler repairs. No call out charge. 698 320 434 (292158)

WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel678 716 693 (288662)

GOLD WANTED

FRENCH, ELÉGANTE , slim, Sophie, 3 languages spoken. Experienced in a large variety of full body massages. Villamartin apartment or can travel to all areas. 693 357 526 (302439)

EXPERIENCE the best with a 1hr unique massage with Veronica. Shaving or permanent hair removal available. For appointments call 679 292 678 (302232)

CLASSIC SPANISH LADY , Playa Flamenca area, private premises, all massage services from 40€. Ana 657 603 495 (302860)

ATTRACTIVE, Girlfriend, Professional Masseuse relaxing and therapeutic Masseuse. Tel: 693 357 526 (295448)

HEALTH & BEAUTY

PERSONAL TRAINER, WEIGHT LOSS, TONING, RESULTS GUARANTEED. CERTIFIED WITH 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE. FORMER US KICKBOX CHAMPION. CALL 747 438 225 (301319)

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

BATHROOM & KITCHEN Conversions Costa Blanca, contact 698 320 434.

INSURANCE

FED UP OF NOT BEING SENT YOUR RENEWAL? CUT YOUR INSURANCE COSTS AND STILL HAVE 100% COVER. YOU HAVE TRIED THE REST NOW TRY THE BEST WITH SOS INSURANCE. WE CAN EVEN INSURE YOU FOR UP TO A €1,000 OF WATERLOSS. CALL 686 116 297 (WHATSAPP TO) OR VISIT www.sosinsurancein spain.com or email tracey@sosinsurancein spain.com (290139)

BENEFICIAL INSURANCE SERVICES. Car, Home, Business, Travel, Life, Funeral, all insurances available. Policies in English. BEST rates, covers & service. Immediate quotes. Tel 961 129 215 / 622 275 561, (WhatsApp) info@benefi cialinsuranceinspain.com or visit www.beneficialinsuran ceinspain.com for online quote. (303063)

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

ANA SLIM ELEGANT DISCREET RELAXING MASSAGE. 24HRS HOME/HOTEL VISITS ONLY. ENGLISH AND FRENCH SPEAKING. TWITTER.COM / MISSTRESANNE. 697 207 715 (302933)

MATURE MALE GIVES SENSUAL RELAXING FULL BODY MASSAGE IN PLAYA FLAMENCA. WHATSAP 633 361 938 (302930)

MISCELLANEOUS MOTORING

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

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)

MOTORHOMES

MOTORHOME / Campervan wanted. Left or right hand drive. Cash waiting for right van. Tlf 650 722 905

PIANO , Keyboard, Organ, Qualified Teacher. Please call 606 984 535 (302201)

INTERNATIONAL SKIPPER

LICENCE: Courses held in English and starts soon. VHF and Radar Courses. 626 245 098 (303488)

KAMAGRA Gold 100mg plus Kamagra Jellies. Collection or Delivery. ROY HAS A NEW TEL. - 613 584 915 (295447)

tp

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

TAILOR-MADE in durable canvas, pergola covers, sails, umbrella, spa and CAR COVERS. 10% off Cushions.

Mazarron to Costa Blanca. RETIRING SOON DON’T MISS OUT Google: KrugerCanopies.com WhatsApp: 667 879 399 krugercanopies@ yahoo.co.uk (295010)

EASYHORSE CARE RESCUE CENTRE. We aim to rescue HORSES. If you would like to DONATE please call 965 967 033 or sales@easyhorsecare. net www.easyhorsecare.net or call Sue 652 021 980 (95706)

GATAMI ORGANISATION, to help kittens and cats, looking for good homes, also spaying wild cats in the community. Kittens require adoption, fully vaccinated, de-wormed, deflead. volunteers to Tel Anna: 966 806 976 / 654 729 977 (95709)

P.E.P.A. VOLUNTEERS & FOSTER HOMES URGENTLY NEEDED. By fostering an abandoned dog or spending a few hours each week on our telephone helpline, you could help save the lives of many animals. Please call: 650 304 746. For more information browse our website: www.pepaspain.com (95708)

SPAMA GANDIA SHELTER. Dog and cat rescue registered charity, La Safor area. 500 animals awaiting rehoming. Phone Gail 962 896 118. Visit our website for directions. www.spama.org and view our new blog at www.spama -safor.blog.com.es PLEASE HELP US TO HELP THEM (95707)

MR FIXIT. For all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance & boiler repairs. No call out charge. 698 320 434 (292158)

POOL MAINTENANCE Repairs, Spares and Leak Testing. Call 965 725 565 / 676 945 360 www.pooltechspain. com (291452)

COSTA LESS EXPRESS , small removals and deliveries. Spain/UK budget prices. Urgent jobs undertaken www.costalessexpress.co .uk Pet transport also arranged in our air conditioned pet/people carriers. Tel: UK (0044) 01256 244657 (302827)

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

TEL: 902 889 070 (2001)

MG3 - well priced, endearing and fun

ROAD TEST

by Mark Slack

MG are making a bit of a name for themselves producing affordable EVs, and pitting themselves against more established makers charging a premium for their EVs. MG’s main models though are SUVs, understandable given their popularity, but the non ­ electric MG3 (available when MG started under its new Chinese owner) remains in the price lists.

This five ­ door hatchback is smart and equipment laden and by today’s standards a bit of a bargain. The two models start from €16,162/ £13,820 with standard equipment including powered and heated door mirrors, air conditioning, power windows, DAB sound system with Apple Car Play, Bluetooth, re ­

Facts at a Glance

• Model: MG3 Exclusive NAV

• Engine: 1.5-Litre, 4-cylinder, petrol

• Gears: 5-speed manual

• Performance: 0-100 kmh (62 mph) Petrol 10.4 secs

• Maximum Speed Petrol 173 kph (108 mph)

• Economy: Petrol 6.6 l/100km (43.3 mpg) WLTP

• Emissions: Petrol 147 g/km

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

mote steering wheel controls, eight ­ inch colour touchscreen, hill hold and auto door locking. The higher trim version at €18,151/£15,520 adds navigation, cruise control, parking camera and sports seats.

The Achilles heel of the MG3 is its engine, a fourcylinder, 1.5 ­ litre petrol

unit that is best described as old school technology. Mated to a manual fivespeed gearbox the combination is adequate, but lacks sufficient power and at cruising speed you always find yourself going for a sixth gear that isn’t there.

At 70mph the MG sits at around 3,200 rpm,

which makes things a tad busy where a more relaxed gearing pattern would help. The need to work the engine also doesn’t help the economy, my mainly local driving week saw a 7.2 l/100km (39mpg) average.

On cross country roads the MG comes alive with

decent steering and a slightly firm suspension set ­ up that keeps the car sitting quite flat through energetic cornering. The power is at the higher end of the engine’s rev range and with a nice gear change makes it a fun drive.

As an example the admittedly more adept and capable Vauxhall Corsa will still set you back €22,296/£19,085, that’s a

substantial difference. Of course, the Corsa will depreciate less, most likely prove as, if not more, durable on the quality front and overall feel more polished. Keep the MG for a longer time though and allied to that cheaper price tag it makes for an appealing proposition. Despite some misgivings the MG is an endearing car, it handles well, is good fun and very well priced. It’s comfortable with a good driving position and for those on a budget the cheapest way to get a new car that is a bit different to the normal mass of budget cars, and actually doesn’t look like a budget model.

MG3: Smart, equipment laden and by today’s standards a bit of a bargain.

Electric classics

THE electric car firm Lunaz

which is backed by David Beckham is a UK­based car restoration and electrification firm. The company’s profile is growing more and more as they upcycle and electrify stunning classic cars ‘to further the legacies of the most beautiful cars in the world’.

They have remastered some iconic cars like the Aston Martin DB6, Bentley, Jaguar, Range Rover, and

even a Rolls ­ Royce. Lunaz works with some of the rarest luxury cars on the planet like the 1961 Bentley S2 Continental and they believe that it is their mission to breathe new life into the most significant cars ever created.

The company was founded in 2018 and has its headquarters in Silverstone, England. David Beckham who purchased a 10 per cent stake in the company said “I was drawn to the company

through their work restoring some of the most beautiful classic cars through upcycling and electrification.”

The attention to detail can be seen on their website where they take you through each stage of the restoration process. It is clear to see this company’s dedication to classic cars and to a more sustainable world as they have partnered with Biffa, the UK’s leading sustainable waste management company. They plan to upcycle diesel refuse lorries rather than scrap them to create a zero ­ emissions fleet.

Catherine McGeer

LUNAZ: The company is backed by David Beckham.

Photo credit: Lunaz website

4% the amount of time the average car is driven in UK.

England Ace off to Real Madrid Messi set for Inter Miami

AFTER much conjecture, the news is that Lionel Messi, arguably the world’s greatest football player, has finally made up his mind about his next team.

Lionel’s father Jorge has been very outspoken about his son’s future team and said that by Wednesday, June 7, a decision would be announced, according to a news source.

Although no official signing has taken place as yet, and despite strong offers from Barcelona and Saudi Arabia, the smart money is on Inter Miami, which is partly owned by David Beckham.

There was strong speculation that the seven­time Ballon d’Or winner would follow his heart and return to Barcelona. A decision that was also his wife Antonella’s preferred choice. Sadly, a return to the Spanish club isn’t likely, partly because of a persistent lack of trust with La Blaugrana president Joan Laporta.

Even Guillem Balague, Messi’s biographer was confident enough to post even a message early on Wednesday afternoon: ‘Messi has decided. His destination: Inter Miami. Leo Messi goes to Inter Milan.’

An extremely lucrative offer to play in Saudi Arabia wasn’t enough to turn the player’s head it seems, as Lionel and his wife reportedly do not see themselves and their three boys settling in the Gulf desert.

All of this leaves Inter Miami currently sitting in pole position. If Messi’s destination is indeed Florida, Barcelona fans’ disappointment may be short­lived, as talk of a much­anticipated loan spell at Barça could be on the cards.

Messi is expected to announce his decision in a statement on his social networks as soon as it becomes confirmed

ENGLAND’S rising star Jude Bellingham has signed a dream contract with Real Madrid at the tender age of 19. A €103 million deal has been agreed as reported on Wednesday, June 7.

Fabrizio Romano posted on Twitter saying: “Jude Bellingham to Real Madrid, here we go! Agreement in place with Borussia Dortmund. It’s a done deal. Fee: €100 million plus add­ons. Bellingham will sign six­year deal valid until June 2029 agreed in April. Medical tests already booked as Madrid wanted to get it done this week.”

His move from Borussia Dortmund will see the continued ascent of Bellingham, whose agreement could be worth closer to €130 million with add­ons.

Manchester City and Liverpool were amongst other suitors, but Real Madrid acted quickly and decisively to bag the England star who becomes football’s third

most expensive teenager af ter Kylian Mbappé and Joao Felix.

Bellingham was one of the stars of England’s last World Cup campaign and also Bundesliga player of the year and is set to become Real Madrid’s second most expensive signing after Eden Hazard.

The move will see Bellingham join a team that could help him become one of the world’s top players. Of

course, his future is still very much down to his drive and determination as Hazard

failed to deliver to his po tential when he arrived at Madrid from Chelsea in 2019.

Jude Bellingham’s true worth may be determined at this juncture in his career, but if he can continue to grow with a super­successful club like Real Madrid backing him, England may have a generational talent on their hands in what we all hope will be a win ­ win situation.

1,872 golf courses in England, the largest number in Europe.

Bellingham has signed a dream contract.