Costa del Sol 22 – 28 June 2023 Issue 1981

WHIPPLE WARRIOR

Betty Henderson

A LOCAL resident has received an extraordinary response after sharing her health story online. Julia Bueltemann has lived in Benalmadena for 15 years and has

faced immense challenges over the past 14 months.

It all began with a diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis, leading to a two­month hospital stay in Malaga. But her struggles persisted as she under­

went the formidable Whipple surgery last October, described as ‘The granddaddy of all surgeries’ by her doctors, and faced complications.

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Julia is recovering at home in Benalmadena.

Photo credit: Julia Bueltemann

Pawsome summer fun

Betty Henderson

JOIN in the fun at Coin Carvery and Grill’s summer fair, set to take place on Saturday, July 29. As well as being a fantastic summer event, organisers are also rallying behind Pawsawhile Dog Rescue to support the animals they rescue. From 10am until 2pm, this thrilling event promises plenty of exciting stalls brimming with unique treasures and goodies. Guests can also enter a fun tombola and raffle, where you’ll have the chance to win fantastic prizes that are sure to delight guests of all ages. There will also be refreshments and snacks available throughout the fun day.

The talented Phoenix Singers will also take to the stage during the event with lots of fun and recognisable tunes, adding to the atmosphere.

AUTHORITIES in Mijas have revealed the dates and schedule for Las Lagunas Feria, a major celebration and community festival in the town. The longawaited event is set to begin on Wednesday, June 28, and will run until Sunday, July 2. The fair will feature a fabulous fairground complete with bright lights, rides and arcade games for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Residents will dress up in tra­

Local businesses are also invited to book stalls at the event and can reach out to Pawsawhile via their Facebook page or send them an email at pawsawhiledogrescue@aol.com

The event will be held at Coin Carvery and Grill, opposite from La Trocha.

Las Lagunas fair

ditional clothing and several events will be held throughout the week and weekend. Aspiring festival ‘Kings and Queens’ will have the chance to compete for their titles in this prestigious traditional contest. Registration is open to competitors aged between 16 and 30, living in Mijas, who have not previ­

ously won the competition.

The Department for Elderly Residents is also set to hold a special dinner of recognition for the town’s older residents on Thursday, June 29, which will be held at the CEIP María Zambrano. Residents are invited to attend, but must register beforehand.

from Front page

Unwavering support

To document her experience, Julia started a blog called ‘Whipple Warrior Walking’, which has resonated with thousands. Her blog has received nearly 12,500 views in just a few months, touching many hearts. Writing became an outlet for Julia, helping in her recovery and mental well­being.

Throughout these challenges, Julia found strength and support within the tight ­ knit Benalmadena community she calls home. Her friends became an unwavering support group, and even strangers have shown her kindness.

With the success of her blog and its positive impact, Julia has ambitious plans for the future. She wants to reach as many people as possible

Julia’s shocking before and after pictures.

through the blog and is even considering creating a support group for English ­ speaking people with similar chronic illnesses.

Julia’s resilience shines

through her blog, offering hope and inspiration in the face of adversity. Her blog can be found online: https://whipple warriorwalking.word press.com.

Photo credit: Julia Bueltemann

The shelter is run entirely by volunteers.

Photo credit: Pawsawhile Dog Rescue

Raising funds

THE Smith Magenis Association in Mijas held a gala on Friday, June 16 to fund research into this rare syndrome. A charity dinner, music, and raffles brought people together to support sufferers and their families. They raised €2,300.

Shore safe

ESTEPONA’S lifeguard watch service returned to the town’s beaches from Thursday, June 15, ensuring that beachgoers can enjoy the beach with peace of mind against risks. The service will also provide assistance to beach users with disabilities or limited mobility.

Cinema canvas

ARTIST Irene Mala has launched a mesmerising exhibition based on Director Tim Burton’s work in Benalmadena. The exhibition takes viewers on a journey into Burton’s magical realm with 60 artworks inspired by films including Planet of the Apes.

Serving you

TOWN and city halls across the Costa del Sol held their inauguration ceremonies for new councils on Saturday, June 17. Many councillors returned to their positions with some new faces joining councils after the local elections of Sunday, May 28.

Summer school

THE Universidad de Malaga’s summer educational courses will return to Marbella from Tuesday, June 27 with a high­quality programme featuring topics like artificial intelligence, literature, and health. The courses are offered in several destinations.

Traditional feria

MONTEMAR’S annual fair returns on Saturday, June 23 for a weekend of traditional fun. With live music, attractions, and affordable food and drinks, it’s a must­attend event. Planned events include a bachata group.

San Juan Festival

SPANISH and foreign citizens alike will flock to the beaches on the evening of Friday June 23 for the annual festivities of the noche de San Juan (San Juan night). This cherished tradition captivates people of all ages, offering a delightful mix of ancient customs and modern festivities.

The Spanish San Juan festival is renowned for its captivating bonfires, symbolising the purification and renewal of the soul. Locals and visitors gather on the beaches, creating a mesmerising ambience that truly sets this festival apart.

At midnight the night sky is illuminated by dazzling fire­

works, set off from various locations all along the Spanish coastline from Cadiz, through the Costa del Sol and Almeria to the Costa Calida and Costa Blanca.

It is not uncommon to see lines of people waiting to

jump over the embers of one of the many moragas (bonfires), an act based in the belief of fire warding off evil spirits and curing disease.

Whether taking a picnic and chairs down for a night on the beach, or enjoying a

YOUR EWN HAS

STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

25th Triathlon

meal with friends in one of the many chiringuitos that the Spanish coast has to offer, food and drink will be a central feature, with espetos de sardinas and plenty of ice cold beer and tinto de verano consumed.

Negotiation hopes Sparkling ambition

FUENGIROLA is gearing up to defend its Green Flag for hospitality sustainability this summer. The town announced their goal to win the prestigious award again this year during a press conference on Thursday, June 15.

The accolade, awarded by Ecovidrio, aims to recognise the town that leads in glass recycling during the season, in Andalucia and nationally.

Councillors Javier Hidalgo and Antonio Carrasco shared Fuengirola’s plans to reclaim the national throne after clinching it last year.

With an eco­conscious com­

munity that has long embraced recycling and other environmental measures, Fuengirola certainly has a track record of environmental success, and the awards to match.

Hidalgo highlighted the vital role that the hospitality industry has to play in winning the award. During last year’s campaign, the local hospitality industry was responsible for 52 per cent of glass that was collected for recycling.

Fuengirola will take on 144 towns across the country and 43 in Andalucia, competing to demonstrate their environmental credentials.

THE Mijas Pueblo shuttle bus service returned on Thursday, June 15, linking the Puerto Quarry to the heart of Mijas Pueblo.

Nicolás Cruz, the local councillor for Transport and Mobility announced the news last week, just in time for the Latino Night party which was held on Saturday, June 17. Cruz added that for events like that, the Blues Night and the Celtic Night, the bus schedule has also been extended to run until later, until 2am on Saturday night.

The M­122 bus service also ran additional services from Fuengirola to Mijas for Latino Night, which is likely to be repeated during other popular

THE Spanish Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares, shared his confidence that negotiations over Gibraltar’s relationship with the EU will be finalised as soon as possible.

During the press conference on Tuesday June 20, Albares highlighted that the UK’s attitude has been constructive in all of the meetings so far. Albares’ positive attitude showed that the issue is still a priority for the government.

The minister highlighted his draft agreement that he presented in December last year.

His draft agreement addresses all the necessary aspects for a

Bus boost

events this summer.

Cruz also shared plans to extend the service during the peak tourism season. He explained that when demand increases, an extra bus will be released to ensure comfortable and efficient access to the town when the Virgen de la Peña car park reaches capacity.

Up ­ to ­ date bus schedules can be found online on the Malaga Metropolitan Transport Authority website: www.ctmam.es , by calling: 955 038 665 , or using the mobile bus app.

zone of shared prosperity between Gibraltar and the Campo de Gibraltar.

However, according to diplomatic sources, the agreement between the EU and the United Kingdom about Gibraltar’s future relationship with the bloc will have to wait until after the general elections on Sunday, July 23 in Spain.

Thirteen rounds of negotiations have taken place between London and Brussels, with the latest round taking place in April, aiming to establish a comprehensive agreement about Gibraltar’s relationship with the EU.

ATHLETES in Estepona are warming up for a spectacular sporting event. The Villa de Estepona Triathlon returns for its 25th edition on Sunday, July 30.

The town’s scenic Playa de la Rada will host the event which is accredited as part of the Malaga Circuit of Triathlons.

The race begins with a 750 metre swim in a bay marked out in the delightful Mediterranean sea. Athletes will then head out of the water for a 20 kilometre bike ride, which consists of four laps of a five kilometre circuit. The triathlon will culminate with a five kilometre run, back along the seafront to the finish line.

Athletes who are signed to a federation can register for €30, while athletes who are not from a federation can secure their spot for €37.

To register online, visit www.triatlonandalucia. org.

Registration closes on Monday, July 24 .

SAN JUAN: People flock to the beaches.

Drive for charity

THE Times Sports Bar and Grill in La Cala de Mijas is thrilled to announce its upcoming

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

“Don’t Bite the Hand that Feeds You”

Meaning don’t treat badly the person who is helping you or has helped you. This was originally used about 600 BC by the Greek poet Sappho, this metaphor of a dog biting its master was first recorded in English in 1711.

Charity Golf Tournament, set to take place at Calanova Golf Club on Thursday, July 13.

This spectacular event is all in support of The Royal British Legion, which provides support to current and former service people in the UK and living abroad.

Spaces in the charity tournament are filling up fast, so anyone wanting to show off their golfing prowess is asked to sign up by contacting Colin to register: 634 107 501. Registration for the tournament costs €70, some of which will cover course costs, and the rest will go to the Royal British Legion.

The action starts bright and early at 8.30am with registration, followed by the first tee­

off at 9.05am. Golfers will enjoy an exhilarating day of competition out on the course until 3.45pm, when the prize­giving ceremony begins. Entertainment including a raffle and a charity auction will follow from 4.30pm.

Even if you’re not a golfer, you can still make a difference by sponsoring this extraordinary event in any way you can.

The organisers also welcome any donations of prizes or support.

Helping hooves

CASA BARELLA in La Cala de

Mijas is hosting a one­of­a­kind charity night on Tuesday, June 27 in aid of the local donkey sanctuary, Donkey Dreamland.

The restaurant is set to hold a tapas and drinks night to raise vital funds for the donkey sanctuary.

The evening which will begin at 7pm will see guests

come together to enjoy tapas and drinks in a social community atmosphere. Adding to the magic of the evening, the organisation has arranged a special appearance by Paco, one of Donkey Dreamland’s rescued animals.

Guests will have the chance to interact with Paco and hear more about his, and other donkeys’ tales of resilience.

Casa Barella will also be hosting an exciting raffle during the event. Generous contributions from local businesses, including Donkey Dreamland itself, will offer attendees the chance to win fantastic prizes. Guests can reserve a table at the event on 611 323 505, or by visiting in person where they can also buy raffle tickets.

The Times Sports Bar are keen charity sponsors.

Photo credit: The Times Sports Bar and Grill

3.7 million passengers in Malaga airport during first quarter 2023.

Armed robbery Tee to tranquility

DAYLIGHT bank robbery

whilst not unknown around the more dangerous parts of the world, doesn’t often hit coastal towns like Fuengirola on the Costa del Sol.

On the morning of Wednesday June 21, however this is exactly what happened as it appears that two or possibly three masked and armed men decided to make an unscheduled withdrawal from a branch of the Sabadell Bank.

Having managed to make a hole in the wall between the bank situated in Calle Alcalde Clemente Díaz and a building next door, they awaited the arrival of the bank staff and then got them to open the vault which is on a time lock.

Initially it was thought that they had taken hostages, but this seems not to have been the case

as once the vault was open the staff were left to call in the raid.

Although it is believed that the robbers have taken a significant amount of money from the bank before making their escape, this has not yet been confirmed. As soon as the Local and National Police were alerted to the fact of the robbery, they scrambled at least one helicopter and officers cordoned off the area as they commenced their search for the crooks.

CALLING all golf lovers and charity supporters! Darkness into Light, the global mental health initiative, is excited to announce their upcoming charity golf day and barbecue party at the scenic El Paraiso Golf Club in Estepona.

This event promises not only a day of thrilling golfing, but also a chance to drive positive change. The Darkness into Light group will be supporting their local partner, Afesol Salud Mental who provide support to individuals facing mental health difficulties on the Costa del Sol.

On Saturday, July 29, golfers will tee off for the worthy cause at the golf club, which is

Strutting their stuff

AGE CARE celebrated their 20th anniversary with an extraordinary charity fashion show. Club Naranja in Calahonda provided the perfect venue for this spectacular event, where guests enjoyed an afternoon of glamour and celebration on Saturday, June 17.

The glitz and glamour of the occasion didn’t go unnoticed, as even TV producers from Bargain Brits in the Sun moved in with their cameras. The producers seized the opportunity to capture the magic of

known for its beauty and challenging championship course. Nestled between La Concha mountain and the Mediterranean Sea, El Paraiso Golf Club offers an idyllic setting that guarantees an enjoyable round for players of all levels.

Entry for the charity event is €95, including a donation to Afesol. For members of El Paraiso Golf Club, entry is available at an exclusive rate of only €30.

All are invited, including golf novices. The event also includes a barbecue and live music. Participants can register with Easy Golf Tours by calling:

the afternoon, promising viewers a glimpse of the celebrations later this year.

Guests were also treated to enchanting live music by the talented Nigel Smith, while the delicious buffet provided by Club Naranja provided muchneeded refreshment.

However, the true stars of the show were the volunteers­turned­models, who graced the runway, showcasing a fabulous collection of clothing from Age Care’s charity shop in El Zoco. Thanks to their

modelling skills, Age Care successfully sold out by the end.

Age Care would like to thank the local businesses that generously contributed meal vouchers and other raffle prizes.

DAYLIGHT ROBBERTY: Police on site at the bank.

FASHION SHOW: The glamorous models posed in all their finery.

Photo credit: Age Care

Screen shot Fuengirola se queja instagram

Slice of drama

THEATRE lovers have got a special date on Sunday, July 4 as the International Theatre Studio (ITS) launches a play reading event in Marbella.

Set against the backdrop of the grand Atalaya Golf and Country Club, this play reading evening promises to transport guests into the heart of American drama.

Unfortunately, the original host, Veronica del Cerro, is unable to attend due to a filming commitment. However, her resourceful deputy and husband, Andrew Gommersall, will lead the event, guaranteeing a night filled with laughter and joy. Whether you’re an aspiring actor eager to showcase your talent or a

theatre lover looking for an immersive experience, this event offers something for everyone.

Guests can arrive from 6.30pm, before the curtains rise at 7pm. Tickets include a half ­ pizza and a choice of wine, beer, or a refreshing soft drink. Guests can book tickets which cost €10 for mem ­

Game on

bers and €12 for nonmembers online from the theatre group’s website: https://internationalthe atrestudio.org/events/pla y­readings.html#4July.

While this is ITS’s final event before the summer break, the group returns with a production of ‘Calendar Girls’ from Friday, October 6.

Steak a claim

FROM today, Thursday, June 22 until Sunday, June 25, Parque Maribel Notario in Marbella is set to host an extraordinary event that will transport guests to the heart of Argentina.

After being postponed due to bad weather, the Gaucho Fiesta will finally arrive in the city, bringing a celebration of Argentinian culture and cuisine.

MARBELLA is preparing to welcome some of the top youth football talent from around the world at the ‘Marbella Cup Soccer’ tournament.

The event, which launches on Friday, June 23, will last until Monday, June 26. This prestigious tournament will bring together around 1,700 promising young male and female football stars, who will showcase their skills in matches staged across Marbella’s excellent sports grounds.

Lisandro Vieytes, the city’s councillor for Sports, highlighted the event’s goal of combining tourism, leisure, and the sport itself. “We are delighted to wel­

come teams from all over Spain to our five­star city, where they can enjoy this thrilling competition,” he explained during the event launch earlier in the week.

The tournament will kick off with an official reception on Friday at 6pm on San Pedro Alcántara Boulevard, followed by an intense schedule of matches.

Ramon Gomez, from Marbella Sun Sport Events, the tournament’s organiser, proudly announced this year’s record­breaking registration numbers and highlighted the economic benefits of the tournament, which will bring at least €1 million to Marbella.

Guests will discover the charm of the Gauchos, legendary Argentine cowboys known for their horse­riding prowess and eye­catching clothes.

Visitors can also indulge in authentic Argentinian barbecue dishes, prepared by asadores grillers.

Meanwhile, a Tango Show will take the stage by storm with passionate choreography and sensual songs. The Gaucho Festival will also feature incredible Argentinian folk music and dance performances.

Admission to the event is free. The festival will be held in the park on Calle Jacinto Benavente, across from the French school from 7pm each evening.

International Theatre Studio Marbella

The ITS’s play readings go down a treat.

Authorities are delighted to bring back the tournament.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Marbella

Midnight rendezvous

FUENGIROLA’S beachfront

chiringuito bars are preparing to host one of the most magical nights of the year on Friday, June 23 and Saturday, June 24.

The town is gearing up to host the Noche Blanco de San Juan or its ‘White Night’, an exciting global phenomenon to mark the shortest nights of the year. As the sun sets on one of the year’s shortest nights, Fuengirola’s coastal bars will awaken, setting the stage for a mag­

nificent summer soirée.

The council launched this year’s event during a meeting with local businesspeople on Wednesday, June 14. The councillor for Beaches, Javier Hidalgo, made the announcement, which was applauded by local entrepreneurs.

Hidalgo highlighted the importance of the event for Fuengirola saying, “Fuengirola has become a soughtafter destination for the San Juan and White Night cele­

bration, attracting many visitors eager to experience the year’s most magical night.”

Twenty chiringuito bars along the coast will participate, offering thrilling live performances and staying open until the early hours.

To add to the magical atmosphere, the businesses will run exclusive promotions during the event. Guests dressed in white will receive a complimentary cocktail at the venues.

Raising the roof

IN a picturesque ceremony held at the Alcornocal Roza del Aguado viewpoint, members of the Simply Thriving Group gathered to open a stunning new pergola pavilion on Thursday, June 15.

Val Williams and Steve Desson from the Simply Thriving Group, met Mijas’ councillor for the Environment, Arancha López, to officially inaugurate the stunning pergola. This magnificent structure, funded entirely by the group, promises to become a valuable addition to Mijas’ local area.

The pergola has an excellent vantage point, with breathtaking views over the majestic Sierra de Mijas mountains. It is also lo­

cated on a popular trail.

Notably, it also overlooks the area ravaged by the devastating forest fire in 2022, which served as the inspiration behind the creation of the Simply Thriving Group’s wildfire calendar, which raised the funds.

Initially, the stunning €3,500 raised was intended for a reforestation initiative. However, due to the delayed start of the project, the group decided to allocate the funds for the pergola instead, where their work is recognised on a plaque.

As well as providing respite from the sun, the pergola will also serve as a platform to teach local schoolchildren about fire prevention.

Charting their path

THE La Cala Lions marked their momentous 25th anniversary with a fabulous celebration at The Green Label Restaurant last weekend.

The group came together for their special Charter Night, held on Saturday, June 17 at the restaurant at El Chaparral Golf Club, Mijas.

Organised by the group’s Social Secretary, Dave Greenwood, the event was filled with joy, gratitude, and a deep sense of achievement. Charter Night was particularly special, as the Lions acknowledged their induction into the globallyrenowned service organisation, the Lions Association.

Over the past quarter­century, the La Cala Lions

have demonstrated unwavering commitment, to the cause raising an astounding €1.4 million to support those in need both locally and globally.

Under the exceptional leadership of current President Wynson Beswick, they have made an impact on countless lives. As her term comes to a close, Wynson warmly welcomed Brenda Meredith as the incoming President.

In a surprise announcement, Wynson announced a donation of €5,000 for DRANG, to support their exceptional work with local disabled children. Antonio and Gisella, the founders, gratefully accepted the Lions’ contribution, aiming to expand their impact.

MAGICAL EVENT: Local businesses excitedly await this year’s White Night.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Fuengirola

King Robbie thrilled Mare Nostrum

AN incredible and heartwarming experience as thousands came together to watch Robbie Williams’ spectacular performance at Fuengirola Mare Nostrum last Thursday night, June 15. Impressing his audience by maintaining his energy throughout the whole hour and 45 minute performance despite the heavy cold he claimed to be suffering from, it was magnificent to see how large his following continues to be so many years later.

Celebrating 25 years as a solo­artist, Williams’ 2023 European tour ‘XXV’ captured his biggest hits such as ‘Angels’ and ‘Let Me Entertain You’ allowing those in the audience to reminisce on some of his best 90s hits.

aking many back on a journey through his life, emphasising his highs and lows, including when he was a ‘Bad Boy’ during his time in ‘Take That,’ a personal connection was formed with his charismatic yet honest personality.

Needless to say, his show brought about an amazing atmosphere thanks to his upbeat hits such as ‘Candy’ and ‘Rock DJ’. However, this was contrasted with his stories about his poor mental health, informing the audi­

ence of how he has not always felt so elated and fortunate at certain points during his highly successful career.

He then ensured that he got a taste of Spanish culture by speak ing to a man called Felipe who was in the front line at his con cert.

Due to the communication barri er, Robbie Williams made an at tempt to speak Spanish which was nothing but hilarious as everything he tried to pronounce led him to be lieve that one just had to add an ‘O’ at the end of each word.

Audience members felt as though Williams appreciated his audience as he held out a Spanish flag thanking the audience for their support.

Robbie finished his concert by encouraging fans to stand up to sing acapella segments of his biggest hits alongside him, before ending with his epic anthem ‘An gles’ one more time.

It was exhilarating to see people come together by the love of music as Robbie Williams ended his re markable performance in the early hours of Friday morning, leaving many feeling euphoric.

Robbie took the audience on his life’s journey.

The performance finished leaving many feeling euphoric.

Photo credit: EWN Media Group

photos credit Mare Nostrum facebook

Mijas goes retro

MORE than 30 drivers put their skills to the test in the first ever Villa de Mijas Classic Car Rally last weekend. This exciting rally took place on Saturday, June 17, giving car lovers and intrigued visitors a look into the flashy world of motorsports.

In an exciting twist, drivers received the course routes just before setting off, with a set speed required by the organisers who held tests at several checkpoints.

Thirty­three vintage cars, with years of history under their hoods, hit the road from Compas on Saturday afternoon. Their route took them through the series of timed checkpoints from Mijas, towards Alhaurin el Grande, Entrerrios, the climb to Mirador del Aguila before regrouping back at Compas.

Later, on the second leg of the rally, drivers navigated through La Alqueria, Camino de Valtocado, and back to Compas, covering a total of 140 kilometres.

Many of the vehicles caught the attention of eager spectators who came out to spot rare makes of vehicles. The elegance of the vehicles and the careful maintenance from their drivers did not go unnoticed. A motorcycle race followed on Sunday, June 18, and also attracted a crowd.

Global gift gala

THE 11th edition of the prestigious Global Gift Gala is just around the corner! The exclusive event is set to take place at Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá in Marbella on Monday, July 24.

This exclusive and starstudded affair, presented by sponsors Nota Blu New Brasserie and Mamzel at Finca Besaya, promises an evening filled with hope, inspiration, and unforgettable experiences for all guests.

Guests will enjoy a gourmet meal provided by the event sponsors in the company of influential figures and celebrities. They will also be treated to exclusive performances throughout the evening.

The visionary founder of the Global Gift Gala, Maria Bravo, a successful en ­

EXCLUSIVE EVENT: The gala is always a star-studded affair.

trepreneur and philanthropist, has joined forces with honorary chair Eva Longoria Baston, a globallyacclaimed actress, director, and passionate activist, to bring the event to Marbella.

The pair extend a warm invitation for guests to join them for the evening in aid of the Global Gift Foundation and Eva Longoria Foundation. Funds raised will make a difference to the lives of countless women

Leaping lemurs

FUENGIROLA’S wildlife haven, Bioparc, celebrated an unexpected arrival on Wednesday, June 15 with the birth of a baby black lemur in their Madagascar zone.

Keepers were taken by surprise as they didn’t know that the female lemur was pregnant. The baby lemur’s father sadly passed away from cancer in February.

The baby lemur’s gender is yet to be revealed as it remains attached to its mother. However, keepers say they will soon be able to tell its gender from the colour of its fur.

and children around the world.

Tickets for the prestigious gala can be purchased online at: https://www.glob algiftgala.com/ticket/theglobal­gift­gala­marbellajuly/

Fun facts & fundraising

THE Village Inn on Calle Esmeralda, Riviera in Mijas is preparing to host a fun charity quiz on Tuesday, July 4, in support of the Age Care Association. Guests can prepare for an exciting evening of brain­teasing questions and laughter, all in the name of a good cause. The knowledgeable host Alan Boardman, has kindly offered his quiz hosting skills to sup­

port Age Care. Guests are invited to create teams of up to four people and show off your team knowledge! The quiz costs €2 per person, which will go directly to the charity.

Participants will have the opportunity to win prizes for their team’s knowledge, as well as joining in with a fun raffle where luck may smile

upon you!

Guests also have the option to eat at the Village Inn, before or after the quiz. The venue offers two menu del dia options, costing €10 or €15 each.

To sign up for the quiz and the meal, guests can contact the Village Inn directly on: 951 665 438 . The venue also offers free car parking for up to 100 vehicles.

The baby lemur is the sixth offspring to be born of the Lordes and the late Benji, who both resided in the wildlife park since 2001. After a period of quarantine, both the mother and baby are now exploring the outdoor enclosure, sharing space with other lemur species like the ring­tailed lemur, black ­ and ­ white lemur, and red lemur.

Lemurs have long been a focus for protection by conservationists. In Madagascar, almost all of the approximately 100 native lemur species are endangered due to deforestation, hunting, and habitat loss. Among them is the black lemur, which has successfully reproduced at the Fuengirola site, defying the odds.

Patient attacks staff

FOUR health workers were attacked by an individual who reacted violently while receiving treatment in the critical care unit of the Costa del Sol Hospital in Marbella.

According to a news source on Monday, June 19, a source from the medical facility confirmed that the injured members of staff included a nurse, two nursing assistants, and a warden.

They were said to have suffered various bruises as a result of the assault which occurred on Friday June 16. A

call for protests to condemn these latest incidents was subsequently made by the various health facilities in the municipality.

From the moment the incident occurred, the protocol for attacks on healthcare professionals at the centre was initiated. Any type of aggression, whether physical or verbal, that is shown against professionals is firmly condemned and rejected by this hospital and its attached centres. It should be noted that attacks in public health

centres in the province of Malaga continue to rise. Data from the Andalucian Health Service (SAS) provided to the unions corresponding to all of 2022 showed a 43 per cent increase compared to the previous year.

A total of 187 incidents were registered in 2020, which rose to 268 in 2022. According to these figures, in that period, 62 physical attacks occurred, equivalent to 23 per cent of the total. Another 77 per cent were verbal attacks, totalling 206.

Flamingo colony deserting wetlands

THOUSANDS of flamingos normally hatch their chicks annually in a popular saltwater lagoon in southern Spain.

This year however, due to the ongoing drought conditions affecting large parts of the country the exotic birds have been forced to seek an alterna tive location as the water levels diminish.

In 1984, the Fuente de Piedra lagoon and its surrounding wetlands in Malaga Province were declared a natural reserve.

Tourists regularly flock to the region to observe these beautiful birds in the wild but those who made the

trip recently have been disappointed to see barely a few dozen of them in attendance.

According to official data, this spring in Spain has

been the hottest one since 1961, with 28 per cent less rain falling than normal. On top of that, the weather experts are predicting a very hot summer.

According to Andalucia’s Agriculture office, in excess of 200,000 flamingo chicks have hatched at the lagoon.

Fuente de Piedra lagoon is the largest in all of Andalucia, covering approximately 1,400 hectares of land. Its previous flamingo population was recognised as the largest colony to be found anywhere on the Iberian peninsula, according to the Junta de Andalucia.

It is one of a group of lagoons in the Antequera area of Malaga Province, which includes other nature reserves that between them cover approximately 3,000 hectares.

Other regular visitors during the migratory periods are various birds of prey and the sandpiper.

FLAMINGOS: Normally hatch their chicks in the lagoon.

Credit: rjime31/Shutterstock.com

Betty Henderson

IN a heartwarming display of support, Rotary Mijas International paid a visit to the headquarters of the Association for Alzheimer’s Patients (AFA) in Mijas on Monday, June 12.

Sharing their appreciation for the association’s tireless efforts in caring for both Spanish and international patients, the Rotary Club commended AFA and its volunteers for their dedication in serving the community.

During the visit, Rotary Mijas International had the honour of contributing to AFA’s cause. They donated one month’s worth of breakfast supplies and funds to cover the monthly costs of a physiotherapist and nurse.

Community care

compassion of the AFA’s volunteers.

Continuing their spirit of collaboration, Rotary Mijas International met again on Sunday, June 18, strengthening their ties with East Marbella Rotary Club. President Christine extended a warm gesture to the new East Marbella President, Sara Neil (Platt), presenting her with a Rotary Friendship brooch.

‘Here in England’

FUENGIROLA is currently playing host to a stunning urban photo exhibition. The ‘Here in England’ exhibition is on display at the Colectivo Imagen headquarters until Friday, June 30.

This project is a collaboration between skilled photographers, Martín Corradini and David Tomé, who aimed to capture the essence of English cities through their lens.

candid shots captures a fleeting moment, uncovering stories that would have otherwise gone unnoticed during the chaos of everyday life.

The club’s President, Christine, along with Katja Range and other Rotary representa­

THE next full moon is on the first weekend of July, and that means a return of Donkey Dreamland’s Full Moon Donkey Walk. The unique experience is set to return on Sunday, July 2, allowing guests to reconnect with nature and the gentle donkeys.

As the sun bids farewell, guests will venture into the serene countryside in the hills behind La Cala de Mijas alongside a lovely group of donkeys. Guests can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the sur­

tives, personally handed over the generous donation and acknowledged the love and

The exchange shows the close bond between the two groups. In a pledge, Sara vowed to pass on the brooch to the next lady President in 2024.

Beams and dreams

roundings while the full moon rises and illuminates the night sky.

The magical experience requires a €15 donation per person which goes towards donkey care at the sanctuary.

The contribution allows guests access to Donkey Dreamland’s vast outdoors space during the event and also includes a re­

freshing drink and a delicious vegetarian tapas picnic. Additional drinks are available for a small donation to support this incredible initiative.

Guests can reserve online at: www.don keydreamland.com/fullmoon, by email to: info@donkeydreamland.com or by calling 640 111 651.

Visitors will be transported to the hidden corners of Bristol, Liverpool, Manchester, and London, where stories come to life amid the bustling city life. Each of the

After opening on Monday, June 5, the exhibition has already received a positive response from the community who have been intrigued to take a closer look at English culture. It has also attracted many Brits living on the Costa del Sol.

The exhibition is open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings, during the Colectivo Imagen’s opening hours.

Photo credit: Rotary Mijas International

CARING VISIT: Rotary Mijas International donated a month of breakfast supplies.

EXHIBITION: The ‘Here in England’ launch party was a splendid occasion.

Photo credit: Colectivo Imagen

Goalkeeper won’t be held back

LIVING with Down Syndrome, Pedro Payares from Puerto de Santa María has chosen not to let it hold him back. Whether as a goalkeeper for Cádiz Genuine or starring in a documentary Fanáticos de lo Real.

Pedro’s mother describes him with a single word: resilience. She acknowledges that since his birth, overcoming challenges has been a constant part of his life. Despite initial difficulties, Pedro has come a long way and continues to bring joy to everyone who knows him.

Being an advocate for his city, Pedro is well­known, en­

joys an active social life and has many fans. One daily ritual Pedro never misses is having breakfast at his favourite bar. Every morning, he occupies his regular spot at the bar, sur­

SPAM sales phone calls will be banned in Spain from June 29. This will be a great relief to those who still pick up the phone to unknown callers who refuse to let you go. You know the scenario. You’ve just got home from another long day at the office. Time to relax! No! Time for a barrage of unsolicited sales calls, with some of the callers being more polite than others.

With phone, TV and internet calls, they’ve always got a better deal on your

rounded by waiters and clients who have become his friends.

But his absolute favourite activity is going out to parties with his cousins. With a mischievous smile, Pedro affirms

CAN THE SPAM

mobile and internet and won’t be talked down.

Then there are the energy companies. Now everyone needs a better deal for energy at the moment, but they are completely undeterred when you say the bills are not in your name.

They are often quite aggressive and rude, and refuse to go away.

High flier

that music makes him feel great, which is why he loves going to discos.

Alongside his infectious enthusiasm for life, Pedro also nurtures a dream that he tirelessly works towards. Becoming a professional goalkeeper like his idol, Keylor Navas. He is already a goalie for Cádiz’s team in LaLiga Genuine Santander, a project that aims to provide a space for footballers with mental disabilities.

Pedro has already earned a place in the official Cádiz store. A poster of him there serves as a reminder to other people with disabilities that they too can succeed in football.

However, the good news on June 29, 2022, the General Telecommunications Law was published in the Official State Gazette (BOE) and this was the beginning of a one­year process for the motion to pass into enforceable law.

Under Article 66 of this law, end users have a right not to receive unsolicited sales calls. This will bring a huge sigh of relief from those who spend who hounded by persistent and annoying sales reps.

Betty Henderson

THE summer season is nearly upon us and Ryanair is surging ahead.

The low ­ cost airline is overpowering rivals including Iberia and Vueling. That’s according to the latest industry data released on Wednesday, June 15.

In May, Ryanair commanded an impressive 23 per cent of shares in the market, serving nearly 5.8 million passengers across its 12 airport bases in Spain.

According to data collected by airport operator Aena, Ryanair continues to dominate over its closest rivals, Iberia and Vueling.

Vueling saw a 14 per cent improvement in May on last year’s figures, welcoming a total of 4.1 million passengers. Meanwhile, Iberia achieved a respectable 17 per cent growth on last year’s figures, transporting 1.8 million passengers during the

month of May.

Air Europa secured the fourth spot with remarkable figures, experiencing a significant resurgence. The airline welcomed 1.36 million passengers, surpassing both last year’s numbers and pre­pandemic levels. Despite potential disruptions from pilot strikes, Air Europa bosses are anticipating a busy summer.

Foreign carriers, including Jet2, easyJet, and Eurowings, also made their mark, entering the top 10 airlines during May.

135 Number of years Sagrada Familia under construction.

PEDRO PAYARES: Wants to succeed in football.

ACCORDING to recent reports a shark has been spotted in Spanish waters. This report comes not long after another one was spotted in Alicante.

The sea­going predator believed to be a tintorera or blue shark was spotted early on Thursday, June 15 in the port of Ciutadella, in Menorca according to a news source.

Video footage emerged of what was thought to be a blue shark swimming among

Shark spotted in hotspot

the boats and almost reaching the coast, images which thanks to social media went viral.

There was much excitement in Ciutadella as the only topic of conversation seemed to be about this rare shark sighting so close to land.

According to eyewitnesses, it is believed that the huge fish may have been injured or

sick, as this particular species of shark does not usually swim almost to the coast and in such shallow waters.

The blue shark is not considered a serious threat to humans.

One man posted footage of the shark accompanied with the message: ‘The security measures have already been installed so that people

Job seekers delight

SPAIN’S job market is experiencing an unprecedented surge with 149,645 unfilled job vacancies, setting a new record.

The Quarterly Labour Cost Survey (ECTL) by the National Institute of Statistics (INE), released on Friday, June 16, revealed approximately 9,000 more vacancies than during the previous quarter of 2022.

Interestingly, Spain stands out in Europe with less than 1 per cent of job vacancies remaining unfilled, much lower than the European average of 2.8 per cent. Austria, Belgium, and the Netherlands have the highest vacancy rates at 4.7 per cent.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment highlights that these vacancies are relatively small compared to Spain’s employed population of 20.8 million. They also cite data from the final quarter of 2022, indicating constant improvements in Spain’s employment figures. Minister Yolanda Díaz is confident that Spain doesn’t face a job vacancy crisis, stating that companies are not struggling to fill employment needs statistically. Spain’s thriving job market, with a record number of unfilled job vacancies,reveals its potential for economic growth by attracting job seekers and bridging the employment supply to demand gap.

do not jump into the port of Ciutadella for Saint John’s Day.’

This latest sighting comes hours after a large shark was

AENA airports have recorded more than 25.4 million passengers in May which is up by 14.4 per cent from last year.

This figure is 3.4 per cent higher than in 2019.

At airports throughout the network, 215,257 aircraft movements were recorded and 87,583 tonnes of cargo were transported.

In the first five months of the year, Aena handled almost 103 million passengers, 27.7 per cent more than in 2022 and 2.3 per cent more than in 2019.

May is the fifth consecutive month in which they have surpassed the figures of four years ago.

Of the total travellers recorded in May, 25,417,978 were commercial passen ­

seen off the beach at Agua marina Beach in Alicante, again this was believed to be a blue shark approximately two metres long.

Flying high

gers. Of these, 17,335,127 passengers travelled on international flights, up 14.9 per cent from May 2022.

Meanwhile, 8,082,851 passengers travelled on domestic flights, 13.5 per cent more than the same month last year.

Adolfo Suárez MadridBarajas Airport recorded the highest number of passengers in the fifth month of the year with 5,053,366, representing an increase of 16.8 per cent compared with May of last year.

It is followed by Barcelona­El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport, with 4,477,108 (+17.2 per cent

compared to 2022); Palma de Mallorca Airport, with 3,421,182 (+9.7 per cent); Malaga­Costa del Sol Airport, with 2,151,259 (+16.1 per cent); and Alicante­Elche Airport, with 1,500,278 (+18 per cent).

1,403 number of hours of sunshine in the UK.

Jazz nights

FUENGIROLA’S ‘Noches de Jazz’ jazz festival is well underway after swinging into the month of June with fabulous performances by the Ana Cisneros Trio, the Juanma Romero Jazz Quartet and the Fanny Jazz Band.

The action is far from over though. Today, Thursday June 22, the Four Women Quartet is set to perform an engaging show. The music played will take the audience on a journey through the history of women in jazz.

The cycle also features a performance by the Milton Rodríguez Trio on Thursday, June 29, before a show by the Dúo Fusión group on Thursday, July 6.

The final concert in the series will be by the WilkinsonGómez­Alazubhev Trio on Thursday, July 20. The trio features Moisés P Sánchez, considered one of Spain’s greatest contemporary jazz pianists.

Each of the performances is set to take place in an intimate setting on the rooftop terrace of Fuengirola Town Hall from 9pm. The only exception is the WilkinsonGómez­Alazubhev Trio, who

Blazing celebration nights

ESTEPONA is gearing up for a fantastic allnight celebration to mark the traditional San Juan festival. The festivities are set to begin today, Thursday June 22 and will last until Sunday, June 25.

decade career.

will perform from 9.30pm in Parque de España.

The jazz nights series is the perfect complement to the Sohail Jazz and World Music Experience which took place at the beginning of June.

This year’s events include an exhilarating music show on Playa La Rada with the ‘More Than 2,000 Sleepless Nights’ concert. The event is set to be headlined by the sensational Javier Ojeda and his band, taking place on Friday, June 23.

Javier Ojeda, known for his solo hits and as the frontman of ‘Danza invisible’, will perform hits from his latest solo album while taking the audience on a nostalgic journey through his remarkable four ­

Joining him on stage are Estepona’s own guitar virtuoso, Daniel Casares, Adolfo Díaz from local band Airbag, and Julia Martín, the winner of the Malaga Female Artists Showcase.

The event is set to begin at 9pm on Friday with the ‘Burn the Mustache of San Juan’ competition. The curious local tradition sees competitors create rag dolls representing famous people or big events which are set ablaze in a huge ceremony. Participants can register by email: fiestas@estepona.es

A ‘Magical Market’ will also be held at the seafront promenade for the duration of the event.

The San Juan beach fires are quite the spectacle.

TOWN HALL: The rooftop terrace is the perfect setting for the evening jazz shows.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Estepona

Photo credit: Agenda Fuengirola

Seal of quality

THE European Soul King himself, Seal, is preparing to take Marbella by storm on Friday, July 7.

The British singer and songwriter will perform a show in the city’s Starlite Occident as part of his 30th anniversary tour, com memorating the release of his ground breaking albums, Seal I and Seal II. The performance will also be part of the Starlite Festival, featuring huge names such as Yusuf / Cat Stevens.

Seal is expected to play hits includ ing the chart­topping ‘Fly like an ea gle’, and ‘Kiss from a rose’ during the evening.

Having sold more than 30 million albums worldwide and re ceived billion streams, Seal’s impressive achievements include four Grammy Awards, three BRIT Awards, two Ivor Novello Awards, and an MTV VMA.

He has also collaborat ed with other globally renowned performers including Santana,

P!nk, and John Legend.

Tickets to the concert start at €53 and can be purchased online from: https://starlitemarbella.koobin.com/seal7julio2023?idioma=ES The concert will begin at 10pm on the night.

MARBELLA’S ‘21st Encuentro de Música Coral’ Choir Showcase is set to return this weekend, dazzling the audience with an evening of beautiful melodies. The choir show is set to take place on Saturday, June 24.

This year’s edition also marks the 30th anniversary of one of the participating choirs, the Coral Polifónica Ciudad de Marbella. The city will also welcome the Agrupación Coral de Don Benito from Don Benito, Badajoz, and the Coral Lucentina from Lucena, Córdoba as special guest choirs.

Each choir will present their own repertoire of popular music, spanning several different

A FABULOUS adaptation of the musical sensation, Les Misérables, is set to arrive in Marbella this weekend. The performance entitled ‘Los Miserables: The Revolution' will hit the stage at the Teatro La Alcoholera on Sunday, June 25.

Students from AulaFIC will perform the adaptation of Victor Hugo’s timeless masterpiece, ‘Les Misérables’ from 6pm on Sunday. The musical theatre students will bring this beloved story to life, includ­

languages and cultures. The show also aims to be engaging for the audience, with plenty of recognisable tunes being performed.

This year’s concert also pays homage to the late Nino Bravo, on the 50th anniversary of his passing.

The Choir Showcase is not only an opportunity for the choirs’ talent to shine through, but is also the first event of the summer season at the José Pernía Calderón Auditorium in Parque de la Constitución.

Concert tickets are and can be collected from the auditorium's box office or reserved online at: www.mientrada.net.

Reaching a crescendo Revolution on stage

ing David Velardo who will play Javert.

Under the expert guidance of director José Ricardo Truchado and musical director José Manuel Santos, this Spanish­language adaptation promises to be a memorable experience for audiences of all ages.

The show is based on Hugo’s 1862 novel, set in 19th­century France which follows the lives of various

characters and their destinies against the backdrop of a society plagued by poverty, injustice, and political disasters.

The show has also been produced in partnership with the Real Club de Pádel Marbella as well as AulaFIC and the city council.

Tickets for the event can be purchased from AulaFIC or from the Real Club de Pádel Marbella.

Seal is celebrating 30 years of stardom

Photo credit: Seal

A taste of luxury

LA SCALA’S summer ball on Saturday, June 17 was a truly magical affair. Guests enjoyed an exquisite evening of fine dining, social fun and top­quality entertainment underneath the moonlit sky.

Upon arrival, guests were warmly welcomed with a sparkling glass of Champagne on the red carpet, setting the stage for a glamorous night.

Restaurant extraordinaire Tibbi Aquila was a gracious host, personally attending to each guest and ensuring their comfort from start to finish.

From guiding them to their tables to accommodating specific dietary preferences, Tibbi’s personalised approach added an extra special touch to the event. The young and dynamic staff also impressed, mirroring Tibbi’s passion for their work and guests’ requests.

The venue was thoughtfully arranged for the occasion, with tastefully selected decor. Crisp white linens adorned the tables, and the glistening cutlery added another touch of sophistication to the dining experience.

Laughter and conversation filled the air as old friends reconnected and new acquaintances were made. Several of the guests travelled from afar to be there and to share the evening to­

gether, making for a memorable night.

The culinary journey began with the first course of the sumptuous four­course menu, offering a variety of gourmet options to suit every palate. Guests savoured starters including a trio of salmon, confit duck, hand­dived scallops, or Norfolk Mardler crispy goat’s cheese.

The main course featured decadent choices like lobster and turbot, woodland mushroom pappardelle, succulent spring baby lamb rack, Sous Vide monkfish and prosciutto, and Tournedos beef Rossini.

The dessert menu delighted with op tions including a dark chocolate sphere with salted caramel, frozen raspberry par fait, and a French cinnamon apricot tarte tatin.

As the night progressed, and the wine flowed, the renowned pianist, Paul Maxwel, ‘The Piano Man’, took his place at his eye­catching red piano. After start ing softly with a little Elton John, Paul soon had the guests up on their feet and danc ing around the piano.

La Scala Summer Ball was the perfect way to welcome in the new season. From the impeccable service and delicious dishes to the warm ambience and excel lent entertainment from the ‘Piano Man’, the night was an unforgettable experi ence for all guests.

La Scala restaurant prides itself on using only the freshest and highest­quality Ital ian ingredients, ensuring an authentic and flavourful dining experience.

From L-R Toni Eastwood OBE, Michel Euesden CEO of Euro Weekly News, Michelle Mellet - Fabric Clothes Chain, Michelle Bowerman - Overseas Property and Philippa Hollifield, Currency Exchange Director.

Paul Maxwel ‘The Piano Man’ at his red piano.

Tibbi and Michelle.

Michelle Mellet and Michelle Bowerman.

Peter and Christine.

The Piano Man had everyone on their feet dancing.

Holly, Michelle, Paul and Camille pose at the piano.

Photo credit: Euro Weekly Media Group

MIchelle Mellet.

Summer spectacular

PERHAPS the biggest name of his generation, the legendary Latin music artist Ricky Martin is preparing to give two concerts in Marbella on Friday, July 14 and Saturday, July 15.

The singer, who hails from Puerto Rico, is set to get the summer off to a sizzling start with the two performances on con secutive nights in Marbel la’s Starlite Occident venue.

Known for his natural sense of rhythm, dazzling vocal skills, and passionate activism for causes, Ricky

Martin has garnered millions of fans from

Marbella, showcasing some of the greatest hits of his

Ricky Martin has amassed an astonishing 95 Platinum records, 40

All Night Long

MARBELLA is preparing to be transported back in time as the internationally acclaimed superstar, Lionel Richie, sets the stage ablaze once again at Starlite Catalana Occidente Auditorium on Thursday, July 6.

With an impressive repertoire of albums and unforgettable singles, Lionel Richie remains an unforgettable name in the music industry. His hits like ‘Endless Love’, ‘Truly’, ‘All Night Long’, and ‘Dancing on the Ceiling’ continue to resonate with fans worldwide.

Having sold over an astounding 125 million albums globally, Lionel Richie’s impact on pop music is immeasurable. The music maestro has been honoured with an Oscar, four Grammy Awards, and, most recently in 2022, an induction into the esteemed Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a testament to his unmatched talent and deep legacy.

Richie’s co­creation of the monumental pop anthem, ‘We Are the World’, for USA for Africa also helped solidify his status as a true music legend.

Doors to the venue will open at 8pm, before Lionel hits the stage at 10pm.

More information about the event and ticket purchases can be made online at: https://starlitemarbella.com /es/concierto/lionel­richie­es2/.

Gold records, and an impressive array of prizes, including numerous Grammy and Latin Grammy awards, the prestigious ‘Person of the Year’ title, and 14 Billboard awards.

He is set to perform a range of the chart­topping hits that made him popular, including ‘Livin’ the vida loca’, along with an orchestra accompaniment.

Tickets to the shows start at €166 and can be purchased online: https://star litemarbella.koobin.com/ri ckym14julio2023?idioma=E S.

Monochrome mixer

COIN is all set to host a glamorous evening that aims to support various local causes.

A black and white party, taking place on Saturday, July 8 at Coin Carvery from 7pm, will raise funds for Last Chance Animal Rescue and People at Risk in Spain. The event also serves as a tribute to the organisers’ dear friend, Petrina. DJ John Sharples will be the life of the party, playing an exciting mix of hits from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, guaranteeing a night of non­stop entertainment.

Tickets to the event are priced at €10 each which includes one raffle ticket with a chance to win great prizes. More raffle tickets will be available for purchase on the evening, alongside exciting games with fun prizes up for grabs.

To secure your spot, guests can contact Nancy at (+44) 7961 723859 or Diane at (+44) 7733 222509 via phone or WhatsApp. Tickets can also be purchased directly from Coin Carvery.

Guests are also asked to bring a box of cereal as a donation for Help People at Risk in Spain, a worthy cause supporting vulnerable individuals and those at risk of social exclusion.

Celtic culture

MIJAS PUEBLO is about to be engulfed once again in a whirlwind of magic and Celtic melodies as the town’s beloved ‘Celta’ Celtic Night returns on Saturday, August 13. Guests will be transported to a land of enchantment Celtic rhythms fill the air.

This vibrant celebration of Celtic culture promises to be an evening like no other, featuring captivating performances by local artists. Stolen Nights, Los Stompers, Nuala Irish Dancer, and the sensational Mosquera Celtic Band are all set to perform in a magical show in Mijas Pueblo’s open air auditorium.

Entry to the festival is free and there will also be a bar with food and drinks available for purchase. The venue will open at 8.30pm on the evening before the music begins at 9pm.

Previous editions of the festival have seen the event firmly established as a favourite on Mijas’ calendar. Each year, the town is bathed in an ambience of Celtic magic and bagpipes for one night only. Visitors from all corners of the country as well as intrigued tourists flock to the Mijas Pueblo every year to revel in the enchanting experience.

The Latin music heartthrob will return to Spain.

Photo credit: Ricky Martin

COYA Pool

Thissummer’s vibrant new hotspot with COYA cuisine & cocktails

Celebrate the season and soak up the Mediterranean sun at the world’s first COYA Pool, only at Puente Romano Beach Resort.

COYA Pool is a lush sub­tropical oasis, with the picture­perfect backdrop of the majestic La Concha mountain, and the white­washed Andalucian architecture of the Puente Romano Beach Resort.

Savour signature COYA light bites and creative cocktails at this new free­spirited pool club, vibrant with COYA Music and live DJ performances.

Refresh in the exotic pool with striking Inca inspired decoration and abundant water jets, and relax on your private day bed, set amongst verdant plants on the large pool deck. Each bespoke day bed includes COYA towels, cushions, a discreet personal storage area and even an integrated ice bucket, so your bubbles will aways be chilled. Kick back and enjoy the rays, or if you desire shade, there are plenty of parasols.

The innovative, non­stop kitchen is open from 12­noon till 5pm, serving a tempting menu of light bites inspired by Peruvian cuisine, including signature COYA dishes like ceviche, as well salads and sandwiches.

The bar is open all day from 11am to 8pm, so feel free to simply visit for an unforgettable cocktail with a dynamic ambiance or savour some goldenhour glamour with the COYA Pool aperitifs served at the end of the day. Following the much­anticipated opening of COYA Marbella, the lifestyle destination restaurant where guests are taken on an immersive journey to Latin America through exceptional, authentic Peruvian food, innovative pisco infusions, cultural events and unforgettable parties, the magic now continues with this new Inca style adults­only pool club.

Magical music

THE one and only Norah Jones is set to grace the stage at Starlite Marbella on Thursday, July 27. The Brooklyn­born singer has been described as ‘the first global diva of the 21st century’, and she is set to bring her musical talent and stage presence to Marbella for one night only.

Since her cosy debut album ‘Come Away With Me’ in 2002, Norah Jones has been a constant voice of warmth and tranquillity, resonating with millions around the world. Her soothing melodies rapidly projected her to global stardom.

The album, often referred to as her ‘moody little record’, not only introduced a fresh voice to the music scene, but also caught the atten­

Neverland calling

tion of major industry figures, earning her numerous Grammy Awards in 2003.

Since then, Jones has amassed an impressive collection of awards, including nine Grammys, more than 50 million album sales, and six billion worldwide song streams. She has also shown the versatility of her voice, in collaborations with bands including El Madmo and Puss N Boots as well as becoming a skilled pianist.

Tickets to the event start at €43 and can be purchased online from: https://starlitemar bella.koobin.com/norahjones27julio2023?id ioma=ES

Doors to the venue will open at 8pm, ahead of the performance beginning at 10pm.

‘PETER the Musical’ is set to arrive in Benalmadena for two performance cycles, from Thursday, July 20, until Saturday, July 22, and again from Thursday, August 10, until Saturday, August 12.

Hailed as Spain’s Best Family Musical of the Year, this incredible production will return to delight audiences once again. Having performed more than 5,000 shows to more than five million viewers worldwide, ‘Peter the Musical’ returns to its Spanish roots, promising a joyful experience for audience members of all ages.

‘Peter the Musical’ is based on the timeless tale of Peter Pan. Inspired by J M Barrie’s childhood classic, the musical brings to life the magical adventures of Peter Pan, the boy who

never grows up.

The Spanish production first stole hearts in London’s Garrick Theatre. The Times newspaper even ranked it among the top five musicals in the city back in 2008.

Having enjoyed tremendous success and rave reviews in six countries; Spain, Portugal, the

World sounds

MUSIC fans prepare to be swept away on a global musical journey in Estepona! The Cologne Chamber Orchestra is bringing a classical music extravaganza to the Teatro Auditorio Felipe VI on Thursday, July 13 at 9pm.

From the remote Australian villages to the Norwegian fjords and the bustling metropolis of Berlin, the orchestra has made it their mission to spread the beauty of classical music far and wide. Their Estepona performance is one of 200 international dates and 150 concert dates within Germany for the orchestra.

Founded in 2003 in Cologne, renowned for its conservatory and illustrious music professors, the orchestra scours master classes given by the country’s top classical musicians to handpick their musicians.

Their Estepona performance is set to feature stirring melodies by musical geniuses including Wolfgang Mozart and Antonio Vivaldi. Musical talents from the orchestra have curated a fascinating programme that blends beloved classics with lesser­known treasures by composers including Sergei Prokofiev and Astor Piazzolla.

As well as taking the audience on a global journey, traversing different musical genres, the music selected also comes from distinct periods of history.

Tickets can be purchased online: https://tafestepona.en tradas.plus/entradas/en/comprarEvento?idEvento=13606.

Uruguay, the latest production of the show returns to Spain by popular demand.

This latest production is set to use cutting­edge theatrical technology to recreate the magic of the legendary tale.

Tickets are available online: https://theatreproper ties.janto.es/espectaculo/p eter­el­musical­by­theatre­

Soulful summer night

MIJAS’ popular Blues Night is making a grand return this summer, promising a sensational evening for all music lovers. On Saturday, July 29, the open­air auditorium in Mijas Pueblo will come alive with the soulful sounds of the blues, with a concert starting at 9pm.

The festival boasts free entrance until full capacity, making it a mustattend event for blues enthusiasts. Attendees will be treated to performances by notable blues musicians from the region. The lineup includes the Vicky King Band, the solo venture from the lead vocalist from renowned Malaga band, Mama Kin. Also taking the stage is the dynamic duo of Will Jacobs & Marcos Coll Band. Will Jacobs, recognised as one of the brightest stars of the new generation of Chicago blues, will showcase his virtuosity on the guitar. Together with Marcos Coll, an accomplished harmonica player, their musical project has taken them across Europe, entrancing audiences with their contemporary Chicago blues sound.

Adding to the lineup is Richard Ray Farrell, an American blues guitarist, singer, and harmonica player with an international following. With his soulful voice and impressive musical skills, Farrell is sure to delight the audience.

Guests can also purchase food and drinks from the venue’s bar.

The orchestra is globally renowned for their skill.

Photo credit: Kölner Kammerorchester

Cologne Chamber Orchestra

Norah Jones will serenade Marbella.

Join the cast on a magical journey.

Photo credit: Peter El Musical by Theatre Properties

FOR the first time ever in the history of the Balearic Islands, a British man has been elected as the mayor of a small town in Mallorca.

Fifty ­ two ­ year ­ old, Richard Thompson and his wife, settled in Mallorca nine years ago, is now the mayor of Sant Joan, according to a news source.

Sant Joan has a population of

British man for mayor

around 2,000 people and sits in the centre of Mallorca. However, it has found itself in the news recently due to its new British mayor.

Mr Thompson originally hails from West Sussex, where he worked as a teacher. Although married to a native of Sant Joan, Richard is not a Spanish citizen,

Tapas culture in India

IT would appear that the world is embracing Spanish tapas culture, with the casual and social eating style reaching the plates of top Indian restaurants.

In Spain, tapas is more than just food. It is a way of life, a way of socialising. It is woven into the social fabric, when you are hanging out with loved ones. It is the perfect accompaniment to a good glass of wine or a beer.

Tapas is also a great way to explore a wide range of Spanish foods quickly. Bite­sized portions mean you can try a regional cheese, cured ham, olives, tortilla, bread, seafood and much more.

Numerous Indian restaurants have pounced on the idea of serving tapas, introducing specially curated menus. These are prepared to be enjoyed in a social environment with drinks just like in Spain.

The tapas culture bares some resemblance

to Indian appetisers, with the likes of onion bhajis, samosas and pakoras being perfect bitesized accompaniments to a beer or wine.

Tapas in Spanish literally means lids. The tradition comes from 13th­century tavern owners who would cover customers’ drinks with a slice of bread, ham, or cheese to keep out insects and dust.

but his resident status was enough for him to serve on the council and qualify to run as a mayoral candidate. Despite his appointment being a first for the islands, he will

not be the first British person to occupy mayoral status in Spain.

In 2008, the Costa Blanca saw Briton, Mark Lewis, become mayor of a small town following the arrest of a number of corrupt councillors. And in Leon, Briton, Carmen McPhee, became mayor of a farming village some 10 years ago.

ADangerous trend

John Ensor

MEDIA outlets in Spain are warning of a new food preparation fad that originated in America which could potentially have serious health consequences.

In what is called a dangerous viral trend that is starting to gain acceptance around the world, Spanish health authorities have had to issue a warning not to follow the advice of certain influencers as the likelihood is it will make you ill.

There has been much debate in Spain about the practice of preparing chicken prior to cooking. It is not that

they wash the chicken with a little water before putting it in a casserole, the new trend is to actually use soap to clean it. A practice which they claim helps get rid of impurities during cooking.

The reality is it has the exact opposite effect. It actually releases bacteria out of the chicken and contaminates the kitchen. Chicken is usually cooked unwashed, and any bacteria will disappear under high cooking temperatures. If the chicken is washed with soap, any bacteria is spread from the sink to the kitchen.

In the US, health authori­

ties here have already warned that it can cause diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting and, in extreme cases, even high fever. Consumers have been urged not to copy this trend.

1,298,000 Malaga Metro number of passengers in April 2023.

TAPAS: Perfect with a glass of wine or beer.

Tapas takeover

WORLD TAPAS DAY arrived with a burst of flavour on Friday, June 16. The mouthwatering event, organised by Saborea España, the leading brand in Spanish gastronomic tourism aimed to honour a quintessential aspect of Spanish cuisine and society, tapas.

Now in its fifth year, World Tapas Day is a favourite event among food enthusiasts and an excuse to discover more of Spain’s rich culinary scene.

To mark the date, a series

of exciting initiatives took place across the country.

The National Tapas and Pintxos Competition was held in Valladolid on Friday. This year marked its 25th anniversary bringing together top culinary talents to create incredible miniature dishes.

World Tapas Day also made its mark on the international scene with an appearance at the Taste of Dublin fair. Experts showcased top culinary destinations like Cambrils, Gran Canaria, Lan­

zarote, Mallorca, and Zaragoza along with their standout dishes.

The prestigious Paul Bocuse Institute in Lyon also hosted a presentation with representatives from destinations such as Cambrils, Denia, Pamplona, and Sevilla.

Representatives from the Chinese market also visited Spanish cities like Sevilla, Segovia, and Valladolid, aiming to promote culinary tourism and to strengthen trade relations.

RAFA NADAL is to take his place in the Balearic Parliament, representing the People’s Party, but by way of clarification, it isn’t the legendary tennis player, but rather his namesake cousin.

The 26­year­old cousin of tennis player Rafa Nadal has won a seat in the Balearic Parliament. Rafael Nadal Barceló will take the seat that belonged to the secretary general of the party, according to a news source on June 14. The relative of the former world’s number­one tennis ace will fill the void left by the secretary general of the party, Sandra Fernández, who resigned after being designated number 2 on the PP Balearic candidacy for the Congress of Deputies in the general elections on July 23. Not much is known about Rafael Nadal Barceló other than this will be his first introduction to public office, and until this point, there is hardly any information about him, except his famous family connection, as he maintains a discreet private life in Mallorca.

However, his father, Rafael Nadal Homar, has been a councillor for the PP in Manacor Town Hall and a member of Parliament.

Seat for Nadal in Parliament Jet2 adds more flights

JET2 have announced plans to expand its services to Spain and Europe in order to meet the increasing demand for spring vacations.

Starting early next year the holiday airline is going to add extra services from Manchester Airport to Spain and other popular destinations across Europe, according to a news source.

As of March 2024, Jet2 will offer flights to Girona, while also boosting its capacity to destinations such as Ibiza and Reus.

Jet2’s Chief Executive Officer, Steve Heapy said: “As the UK’s largest tour operator, we are continuing to react quickly to the demand we are seeing by adding on even more capacity for Summer 24 from Manchester Airport.”

He went on to explain how the company was quick to spot new trends and meet demands: “Customers and independent travel agents in the region have been flocking to book holidays for the early summer season, so we are delighted to be offering even more choice and flexibility to eight sun destinations and giving holidaymakers many opportunities to get away on our award­winning flights and holidays.’

Speaking about the exciting new development he concluded: “By adding additional services during peak times such as the Easter holidays, we are giving customers exactly what they want ­ an early slice of summer sun.”

World Tapas Day celebrations kicked off in Ireland.

New Air Baltic routes

LATVIAN airline Air Baltic announced on Thursday June 15, their intent to open a new set of routes to Gran Canaria, from Latvia and various Scandinavian countries.

Air Baltic will open a base at Las Palmas Airport on Gran Canaria and they hope to do it in time to bring some winter sun to passengers from colder climes.

Latvia can experience winter temperatures around ­ 40 degrees Celsius, similar temperatures experienced in Norway, Finland, Lithuania and Estonia from where they also will fly to Spain. Although much more temperate in winter, Air Baltic has also proposed routes from Demark.

President and CEO of Air Baltic, Martin Gauss said this on the new routes, as quoted in Aviation Source News:

“When preparing for the upcoming season, we

always carefully analyse the market dynamics. For winter months, when the overall passenger demand worldwide is traditionally lower, we have identified an opportunity to optimise our capacity to be as efficient as possible.

“By establishing a seasonal base and operating two aircraft from Las Palmas we can serve the demand for sunny and leisure destinations. Such expanded presence in Gran Canaria not only enhances connectivity but also provides passengers with a wide range of convenient travel options.”

Andalucia most sought-after community

ACCORDING to a recent report, 61 per cent of Spaniards would like to move to a different region.

The study, carried out by the Mutua Propietarios Group contained some startling revelations about the most popular areas with Spanish nationals, wrote a news source on Tuesday, June 20.

with 70 per cent per cent of those interviewed, saying they would like to continue living in Spain, while 30 per cent would be open to new foreign destinations.

However, in the under­35 age bracket, many said they are certain or likely to change their home in the next few years. This is often driven by factors such as the type of tenure.

France from €9

Air Baltic began direct flights between Riga and Las Palmas in 2022, but will now look to connect Gran Canaria to nine new airports around Scandinavia and Baltic states, putting them up against the likes of Norwegian Airlines and SAS.

Gran Canaria ­ Tallinn, Estonia: one weekly flight from December 7.

All tickets went on sale on June 21, but as yet no pricing had been announced, so get ready to hop online in the next few days and hopefully grab yourself a bargain winter break to this perfect holiday destination.

Sixty­one per cent of Spaniards would choose another area to live in. The top five most popular destinations are listed below, with first place going to Andalucia, with 11 per cent.

Second on the list was Valencia at 7 per cent, followed by Asturias and the Canary Islands both at 6 per cent, with the Basque Country at 4 per cent.

Laura López, a spokesperson for the group that conducted the study said: “The quality of the home, the environment and social interaction are three of the most important factors in determining the degree of residential satisfaction.”

The study found that on the whole, Spanish people are content with their country of origin,

RENFE completed a new milestone in its internationalisation plan on Monday, June 19, after it announced historic new routes into France.

The company had already operated services on territory beyond the Pyrenees during its collaboration with the French state operator SNCF. When that deal came to an end, Renfe was left with access to the routes between both countries.

One of the new AVE France services (International AVE between Spain and France) will be a high­speed connection between the cities of Barcelona and Lyon from July 13.

Two weeks after this date, Renfe will start running AVE France fast and sustainable trains to link Barcelona and Madrid with Marseille. As a result, the company will re­establish the original routes it covered while working with SNCF. A total of 9,700 tickets will be put on sale for these weekly journeys between Spain and France.

These services will link Barcelona, Girona and Figueres Vilafant with Lyon. Similarly, Madrid, Zaragoza, Camp de Tarragona, Barcelona, Girona and Figueres Vilafant with Marseille.

Renfe’s arrival in France will be accompanied by a promotional offer to make itself known in the country. It will be possible to travel between Madrid and Marseille for €29, between Barcelona and Lyon for €19 and with special prices of €9 for those routes that will link the French cities.

AIR BALTIC: Will open a base at Las Palmas airport.

Birthday Honours

KING CHARLES ’ birthday honours list was released on Friday June 16, and of course honours unsung heroes alongside those in the public eye.

Charles has honoured some incredible people this year who have achieved through bravery, perseverance and sheer belief in a cause.

Amongst the unsung heroes, Charles has included a woman who lost her son, her father and her brother in the 2015 Tunisia beach massacre.

Suzanne Richards’ holiday had only just begun when the brutal tragedy took place at Port El Kantaoui, near Sousse.

She has since, with her surviving younger son Owen, set up the Smile for Joel charity, which has raised more than £500,000 for families bereaved by murder. Suzanne will receive an MBE.

During the pandemic, centenarian Joan Willett raised over £60,000 for the British Heart Foundation by walking up and down a hill near her house. The heart attack

sufferer was 104 years old at the time of her feat and will be 106 as she receives her BEM.

Razvan Constantinescu will be awarded an OBE for making sure over 4,000 aid parcels found their way to Odesa, as the conflict in Ukraine continues.

Of course, there are many more unsung heroes who contribute so much to the daily life of UK citizens, but there are also those known celebrities and politicians who symbolise or enact our aspirations.

Arsenal footballing legend and current football pundit, Ian Wright, 59,

Flying Scotsman

HIS Majesty The King celebrated 100 years of Flying Scotsman and 50 years of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

On Monday June 12, Flying Scotsman, the world’s most famous locomotive, hauled the Royal Train into Pickering Heritage Railway Station as part of its centenary tour of the UK and to mark 50 years of North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Flying Scotsman, which turned 100 on February 24,2023, had been specially prepared for the occasion: its roof painted white and new lamps fitted to the cab, in line with the tra ­

dition of hauling the Royal Train.

Judith McNicol, Director of the National Railway Museum, said: “To have Flying Scotsman haul the Royal Train in its centenary year and in the first year of His Majesty’s reign is a huge honour.

“It takes a dedicated team of people, with important heritage skills, to keep this engine running as it is the oldest steam locomotive on the main line.”

She added: “We are deeply appreciative of His Majesty’s interest in and support for our historic railways and the skills needed to maintain them.”

will be recognised with an OBE for his work with the Football Association (FA) and his services to charity.

Davina McCall, 55, is set to receive an MBE for her TV work, with her 10­year run on Big Brother. Ms McCall is an advocate for women’s health and also has taken on charity work for Sport Relief.

Legendary Radio DJ Ken Bruce is known best for his long ­ running BBC Radio 2 show as well as his standout feature, Pop Master. Bruce will receive an MBE.

You can read the full list on the UK government website.

Looking up

THE Royal Institutions for Chartered Surveyors UK (RICS) have expressed a more positive outlook for house prices, despite rising interest rates that are expected to impact buyers’ affordability. RICS’s reported that new buyer inquiries, prices, and expectations for the market were all less negative in May compared to previous months.

Despite their positive outlook for the property market, RICS warned that an increase in mortgage rates could constrain the market in the future.

While new buyer inquiries registered at minus 18 per cent in May, the least negative reading in a year, the measure of house prices rose to minus 30 per cent, marking the third consecutive increase.

King Charles’ honours incredible people.

PRESS EUROPEAN

DENMARK

Last act

WARNER BROS INTERNATIONAL TELEVISION PRODUCTION (WBITVP) is closing its Denmark production centre and centralising Scandinavian operations in Sweden. The decision was prompted by ‘ongoing uncertainty’ in the Danish media market and the rising costs of content creation, Warner Brothers said.

THE NETHERLANDS

Screen scheme

SUN cream dispensers will be available this summer in schools, universities, at festivals, parks, sports venues and in open public spaces in the Netherlands. Skin cancer levels have soared, and it wants everyone to have access to sun protection without concerns about cost or inconvenience, the government said.

BELGIUM

Bittersweet

A YOUNG Ukrainian refugee now living in Brussels won €500,000 after buying a €5 lottery scratchcard. The unnamed winner had “very mixed feelings”, a lottery spokesman said, as his mind was clearly in Ukraine and it was difficult to be happy with all that was happening in his country.

GERMANY

Rare find

ARCHAEOLOGISTS in Bavaria announced that they had found a well-preserved Bronze Age sword in the town of Nordlingen. The discovery of the 3,000-year-old sword was extremely rare for this part of Germany as most burial mounds were looted during antiquity or opened during the 19th century.

FRANCE

Red line

NUCLEAR power was an absolute, non-negotiable red line, declared France’s Finance minister Bruno Le Maire following Franco-German disagreements over nuclear energy in Europe. “France will not relinquish any of the competitive advantages linked to nuclear energy,” Le Maire insisted at the Electricity Union’s annual conference.

NORWAY

Going up

NORWAY’S krone rose to €0.088 on June 14, the strongest it has been since steady growth began in June, attributed by currency strategists to unexpectedly high core inflation. The value of the krone against the euro had declined steadily since spring last year, when it was worth more than €0.1.

FINLAND

Cry wolf

FINLAND’S wolf population has increased by an annual 10 per cent since 2017, with an estimated 310 now living in the country, the Natural Resources Institute said. Wolf packs are nevertheless creating tension after allegedly killing 1,261 reindeer and 518 sheep and attacking approximately 50 dogs last year.

IRELAND Big data

WHILE Ireland is failing to meet climate targets, its data centres consumed almost a fifth of the country’s electricity in 2022, the same amount used by all the country’s urban homes. Central Statistics Office showed that this was a 31 per cent increase on 2021 and nearly 400 per cent more than 2015.

ITALY Uber exit

IN line with the company’s policy of focusing on markets with opportunities for sustainable growth, Uber is winding up its food delivery business in Italy where it trails Just Eat and Glovo. Chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi previously said Uber will invest only in markets where it can be the largest or second-largest player.

PORTUGAL

Not going

COLM MURPHY, a senior cybersecurity advisor at Huawei said that Portugal appears to have gone further than other European countries regarding 5G restrictions. Asked whether this could lead to Huawei’s departure Murphy said, Huawei had “legal and contractual obligations” in Portugal and “would never let customers down.”

UKRAINE

Cood reception

ELIZABETH GILBERT, author of ‘Eat, Pray, Love’, announced on Monday that her upcoming book set in 1900s’ Siberia will not be released as scheduled. She made the decision following a backlash from Ukrainian readers who feared the book would romanticise Russia at a time when the country is accused of war crimes.

SWEDEN

No harm done

THE Monet painting, The Artist’s Garden at Giverny, daubed with red paint by environmental activists, is undamaged, said the Orsay Museum in Paris, which loaned the picture to Stockholm’s National Museum. The Restore Wetlands campaigners had also glued their hands to the protective glass without harming the picture.

BUSINESS EXTRA Linda Hall

Sun spots

UNIVERSITIES and tech companies will receive £4.3 million (€5 million) in funding from the government to develop spacebased solar power, which collects energy from the sun using satellite­mounted panels and beams it to Earth. The scheme has huge potential, Energy Security Secretary, Grant Shapps, said.

Shanghai deal

GRIFOLS, Catalonia ­ based multinational pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturer, is taking steps to reduce its debt with a corporate manoeuvre within the Chinese company, Shanghai RAAS. If the transaction goes ahead, Grifols will receive $1.5 billion (€1.4 billion) while remaining ‘a significant’ Shanghai RAAS shareholder.

Shell payout

SHELL intends to boost its dividends by 15 per cent as part of the company’s plans to hand back more cash to its shareholders under its new chief executive Wael Sawan. Shell has told investors that the dividend increase would become effective from the second quarter of its financial year.

No vote

PORTUGUESE company Western Gate, with a 2.18 per cent stake in the Dia supermarket chain, will vote against Benjamin Babcock as a major shareholder­director representing LetterOne, which owns 77 per cent of the company. Minority shareholders should have more weight on Dia’s board, Western Gate said.

Not the same

FREETRADE, the investment app, has slashed its pre­money valuation by 65 per cent while blaming current conditions and a “different market environment.” Freetrade’s valuation rose to £650 million (€760 million) during the pandemic, but the company announced that it has since fallen to £225 million (€263 million).

THE UK economy recovered from the impact of strikes and returned to growth in April. Official figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) registered a 0.2 per cent upturn owing to increased car sales and more spending in shops, bars and restaurants.

Growth over the first quarter increased by 0.1 per cent.

“Gross domestic product (GDP) bounced back after a weak March,” announced Darren Morgan, ONS’ director of Economic Statistics.

Bars and pubs had a comparatively strong April while car sales rebounded. Education partially recovered from the effect of the previ­

STAT OF WEEK €649 million

was the record turnover figure which Ayesa, the Sevilla-based IT consultancy firm, announced for 2022, a 130 per cent increase on 2021 following a year that included several acquisitions.

Networks merge The road to recovery

4.5 per cent.

Analysts explained the regulator is concerned that core inflation, which does not cover energy and food, remains stubbornly high.

VODAFONE and the owner of Three will merge their British networks to create the UK’s largest mobile phone operator.

ous month’s industrial action, he said, although health output was affected by the junior doctors’ strikes.

“There were also falls in computer manufacturing and the often­erratic pharmaceuticals industry,” Morgan added.

April was a poor month

HAWALA has existed for centuries as an informal method for transferring money.

“It is used to transfer funds from one location to another through service providers, known as hawaladar, regardless of the nature of the transaction and the countries involved,” according to an International Monetary Fund report.

Requiring no documentation, it is an anonymous way of moving money in Muslim communities in the Middle East, North Africa, the Horn of Africa and India although its use is not limited to Muslims.

Illegal in the US, and some EU member nations, the practice is allowed in the UK, where the hawala system must comply with regulations set in England

More Waitrose reductions

WAITROSE has invested £100 million (€116.9 million) in lowering the price of its own­brand range.

After cutting the prices of more than 300 items in February, the supermarket chain has reduced another 200 products as it competes with cheaper rivals like Aldi and Lidl.

More than 100 items have been slashed by at least 10 per cent, Waitrose announced, as it hopes to woo shoppers looking out for bargains.

“We want customers to benefit every time they shop with us,” Charlotte Di Cello, Waitrose’s commercial director said.

for house builders and estate agents, under pressure from rising interest rates and falling property values, the ONS report revealed.

The latest ONS figures coincided with the certainty that the Bank of England was about to hike interest rates for the 13th time in succession from its current

The UK’s Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, said he backed the Bank over increased interest rates, and the country was in a situation very different from last autumn’s.

“The International Monetary Fund, the international commentators, think the British economy is on the right track and the government is doing the right thing to support the Bank of England.”

Old custom, new uses

minimal documentation make it vulnerable to abuse by individuals and groups transferring funds to finance illegal activities.

Misuse of the system has been linked to the financing of terrorism and money­laundering, although it is also used to bypass sanctions against Iran.

The companies are the UK’s third­ and fourth­biggest operators respectively and, once the merger is completed, will have more than 27 million subscribers between them. This will put them ahead of EE, owned by BT, and Virgin Media O2, jointly owned by Spain’s Telefonica and the US­listed company Liberty Global.

The deal will be closely examined by competition regulators, although the UK’s telecommunications’ regulator, Ofcom, announced last year that it was less opposed to consolidating the sector than in the past.

Mega-station

DIF has announced a €514.3 million contract connecting the highspeed networks linking northern and southern Spain.

The project will create a huge Madrid station with terminals in Chamartín and Atocha connected by a tunnel, explained the stateowned company which maintains and manages Spain’s rail networks.

HAWALA: Exact scale unknown, said EC’s Executive vice-president Valdis Dombrowskis.

and Wales, register with HMRC and comply with UK money laundering. Although routinely used by legitimate businesses, hawala’s anonymity and

Everest not climbed

CARMINE DI SIBIO, global chief executive at Ernst & Young (EY) will retire next year.

Di Sibio, aged 60, was responsible for Project Everest, a plan to separate the consultancy and audit divisions of the Londonbased company, which was scuppered by EY’s New York office.

This would have involved spinning off EY’s consulting arm and listing it on the stock market, bringing multimillion­dollar windfalls to the firm’s partners.

The initiative cost more than $600 million (€554.2 million) but Di Sibio still maintains that the deal was necessary to free consultants from conflict­of­interest rules that restricted them from advising audit clients.

Di Sibio will not step down immediately, he said, but would oversee the organisation through a transition period lasting until the end of the next financial year in June 2024.

Valdis Dombrowskis, the European Commission’s Executive vice­president admitted in 2020 the hawala system was regarded as a matter for concern.

“Its exact scale in the EU is unknown,” he said. “Tracing the value flow is virtually impossible for law enforcement agencies.”

Far reaching

LEADING aerostructures company

Aernnova is taking part in building the new Honda Jet 2600.

The Basque company will design the aircraft’s wings and their components, including the flaps, ailerons, the spoilers that open during landings, and the empennage or tail fin.

The Honda Jet 2600 takes its name from the aircraft’s range target of 2,625 nautical miles (approximately 4,861 kilometres) and is designed to be the world’s first light jet capable of non­stop transcontinental flight across the United States.

Honda plans to market the aircraft, which will have seating for 10 passengers and cost between $11 and $13 million (€10.1 and €12 million), in 2026.

The project will ensure maximum capacity for the second phase of Spain’s rail liberalisation, providing Atocha with four new tracks and two platforms under the existing station and Calle Mendez Avaro.

This will connect with the new high­speed southern access ­ operational since July 2022 ­ and allow trains to stop at either Chamartin or Atocha.

Bending rules

ANTONIO GARAMENDI, the Spanish Confederation of Business Organisations (CEOE) president, allegedly wants to lift restrictions on the number of terms a president may serve.

When re­elected in November, Garamendi was adamant changes to the statutes, were “out of the question.” Seven months later, however, Garamendi has met the CEOE’s vice­presidents to discuss altering the rules and “modernising” the election process.

All involved insisted any modifications were at an early stage and would first need to be discussed at the June board meeting and the General Assembly in July.

ONS HQ: UK’s Statistics Office, based in Newport (Wales).

Photo credit: ONS

Photo credit: audiovisual.ec.europa.eu

DOW JONES

Top changes

SANTANDER, which is currently renewing its top executives in Europe, announced the appointment of Pedro Castro e Almeida, until now chief executive of Santander Portugal, as its new Regional Head of Europe. He takes over on September 1 from Antonio Simões, who is leaving the bank to join the British insurer Legal & General.

Football fund

TWENTY top­flight UK football clubs were consulted over making permanent a funding package that was set up during the pandemic. Sources revealed the government proposed to increase the existing £100m (€116.7m) allocation for grassroots, community and other football projects to £133m (€155.2m), subject to future increases in Premier League revenue.

No good options to hand

LEADING market analysts at CMC Markets hardly predicted a wave of cheerful news after UK inflation failed to fall as low as hoped.

The latest Ofgem price cap changed little for household bills, they pointed out, but the end of the two government schemes helped to lower inflation.

Experts at CMC, a leading global provider of online financial trading and institutional technology solutions, foresaw a further squeeze

Zara soars high

INDITEX shares have shot up since the textile giant, which owns Zara and other fashion labels, presented record quarterly figures on June 7.

The shares went above €34 for the first time in six years and now approach their all­time high of €34.85 in June 2017

On June 14 they stood at €34.21, an increase of 7.5 per cent following Inditex’s

quarterly figures, giving the company a value of €106.6 billion.

According to financial daily Cinco Dias, 65.7 per cent of investment and trading analysts recommend buying Inditex now. A further 28.6 per cent advised those who already had shares to hang on to them, while just 5.7 per cent said they should sell.

Riders law

on consumers and a possible rise in the base rate.

Nor did they rule out a recession like Germany’s, with reduced household and business expenditure, reduced demand for debt, and a rise in unemployment.

“We already know from the Kantar grocery numbers earlier that food inflation is slowing down. In May, it came in at 17.2 per cent, but the process looks increasingly glacial,” said Michael Hewson, CMC Markets’ chief market analyst.

“For now, the central bank is in the invidious position of having no good options,” he declared.

“Do nothing and inflation will take longer to work its way out of the system, squeezing consumers further. Raise by 0.25 percentage points to show they are trying to do something,” Hewson said. “Or be more aggressive and push the economy into recession.”

THE majority of Labour Ministers from the EU’s 27 member states voted in favour of a directive setting out the working conditions for the food delivery and other riders employed by digital platforms. Spain abstained, as Yolanda Diaz, who is also second vice­president, considered that the new measures were insufficient and were “difficult to understand in democratic terms.”

Export fiasco

FIGURES from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) revealed that the UK’s goods and services exports had a value of $813 billion (€756 billion) in 2012 but rose only 6 per cent by 2021. Overall, the EU’s 27 member enjoyed a 29.1 per cent increase in the value of their exports during the same period.

UK REGULATOR: Tricky choices for Bank of England.

Photo credit: CC/Colin Smith

Stoked up

NATIONAL GRID is in talks with power generation group Drax over bringing two coal­fired units at its Selby (North Yorkshire) plant out of retirement. ESO, the grid’s system operator, has discussed restarting the units, shut down this year after 50 years of coal­fired power generation, to prevent power cuts in winter.

Prove it

SPAIN’S Supreme Court ruled temporary public­sector employees who are not covered by the 2021 Employment Stability Act and sacked after working for several years, are not automatically entitled to compensation. Instead, they must demonstrate that dismissal has caused them significant ‘moral or financial’ damage.

Pigging out

SWIZZELS, which also makes Refreshers and Parma Violets, will redesign the Pig Mugs it has sold since 1996, after M &S argued they were too similar to their own product. M & S sells 271 bags a minute of Percy Pig fruit gums since their 1993 launch, generating a £131.7 million (€153.9m) turnover since then.

Des res

ANA GAMAZO HOHENLO­

HE, who is the wife of Juan Abello, one of Spain’s richest businessmen, intends to sell one of her properties in Calle Padilla in Madrid’s Salamanca district, equivalent to London’s Mayfair. The sale of the 8,500sqm five­storey building is expected to raise around €80 million.

Ashes to ashes

ALASDAIR WARREN, WE Soda’s chief executive, said New York could eventually be a “credible alternative” for a stock market flotation. The world’s principal natural soda ash producer abandoned plans to list in London, claiming valuations were “unrealistically low.”

More HORSEpower for Madrid

HORSE, the new Renault company, will be based in Madrid.

Romania, which produces the Dacia range, was competing with Spain to be chosen by the joint venture initiative between Renault and the Chinese automotive company Geely. Instead, the June 14 announcement has underlined Renault’s commitment to Spain, its second­most important industrial hub after France.

The new company, Horse, will focus on developing internal combustion engines, hybrids and new technologies including e­fuels, although the announcement will not have immediate investment repercussions.

Nevertheless, the presence of Horse in Madrid will put Spain at an advantage regarding decision­making by a company that foresees an annu­

al turnover of €15 billion for its 15 production plants worldwide.

Renault’s currently operates a gearbox factory in Sevilla and an engine factory in Valladolid, both of

Letting go

which will become Horse assets.

While the future Renault spinoff Ampere will focus on electric vehicles, Horse represents Renault’s endeavours to continue producing combustion engine vehicles using less polluting technologies both in Europe and outside it.

The company believes that synthetic fuels will prolong the combustion engine’s life inside Europe, although the European Commission is banning the sale of polluting vehicles, including hybrids, from 2035 onwards.

While Italy totally opposes the ban, Germany is calling for an exemption for vehicles that use climate­neutral synthetic fuels, although at present these are exceptionally expensive compared with petrol or diesel.

Inflation’s toll on salaries

PAY in the UK has fallen once it has been adjusted for inflation, even though most salaries have increased.

Global employee pay company, CloudPay, warned that more sustainable benefits packages needed to be adopted to offset this problem.

“It’s clear that the rising cost of living is continuing to put significant pressure on businesses as staff and potential recruits seek higher pay packages in what remains a tough economic climate,” CloudPay’s John Pearce said.

Inflation had created a scenario where salary rises were having little or no impact on household budgets and firms seemingly faced an unsustainable level of demand for more increases, he added.

“The challenge, of course, is that employers are already struggling with skills shortages, meaning that many are having to use pay inflation as an attraction and retention tool,” Pearce said said.

“But this can only be sustained for so long and businesses will need to find an alternative soon,” he warned.

Benefits packages, which were more cost­effective long­term for businesses, would be increas­

SPANISH engineering and construction company Elecnor will cede a controlling interest in its wind power subsidiary, Enerfín.

It no longer seeks a financial partner to take a ‘relevant but not majority stake’ in Enerfin, as it did a year ago.

Until now Elecnor has been able to finance growth and pay shareholders dividends of €31 million last year and €29 million in 2021, but now requires more cash to maintain commitments.

Parallel to the Enerfin operation, Elecnor, worth an estimated €1 billion, has launched a new programme to place €400 million in promissory notes. This will finance multiple projects in Spain and internationally, the company announced.

Top secret

ingly relied on, CloudPay foresaw.

“That includes flexibility around pay solutions allowing individuals to control when and how often they access their pay to help mitigate against some of the budget challenges that the UK population is facing,” Pearce said.

5G comes in to land

AIRPORTS group Aena and Cellnex Telecom are launching the first private network based on 5G technology at Spanish airports.

The pilot project at San Sebastian airport in the north of Spain is one of the first at a European airport, Aena announced.

The agreement with Aena will takes Cellnex a step

forward in developing a strategy based on organic growth within the company rather than the multi­million acquisition of telecommunications infrastructure it has made recent years.

Aena regards 5G as a key technology in its digital transformation process, a source at the state­owned company explained.

THE UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has rebuked Sainsbury’s and Asda for irregular land agreements that hindered rival chains from opening up nearby.

It had found a total of 32 examples where the chains had placed restrictions on land agreements which, the regulator said, were anti­competitive.

Sainsbury’s and Asda respectively hold the second and third highest market shares in the UK, but both had breached the Groceries Market Investigation (Controlled Land) Order 2010, the CMA said.

This had been brought in precisely to

Connectivity at its airports has existed for years, but the new technology would enable the development of applications in important fields, Aena said.

These included the advancement of the internet of things (IoT), which connects and exchanges data with other devices and systems via the internet.

Big players’ stitch-up

stop supermarkets imposing new restrictions to stop rivals from opening competing stores nearby.

“By ensuring that supermarkets can compete freely, the CMA is ensuring that shoppers have more choice and so benefit from a wider range of groceries and access to cheaper prices,” the watchdog said.

TUFAN ERGINBILGIC, chief executive who took over £12 billion (€14 billion) engineering company RollsRoyce in January, has joint British and Turkish citizenship.

Owing to his dual nationality, Erginbilgic cannot access top secret UK government documents relating to its submarines business, RollsRoyce sources told the Guardian Rolls­Royce’s submarines division builds the nuclear reactors powering Britain’s submarines, including the Vanguard armed with nuclear warheads, and Whitehall security protocols prevent him from viewing ‘UK eyes only’ documents.

Chris Cholerton, the group’s president since March, has instead been given responsibility for handling sensitive information.

Pilot scheme

SPAIN’S BBVA bank is trialling a scheme to close less­used urban branches for two or three days each week.

This does not affect staff, who provide support for busier branches in the same locality, BBVA sources explained.

The pilot scheme is currently operating at 12 branches in Valencia, according to unions quoted in financial daily, Expansion.

The bank ‘constantly’ tries out new projects, it insisted, adding that the current trial did not entail staff reductions or branch closures. Neither did it mean that BBVA would leave more towns in future.

RENAULT HORSE: Madrid, CEO Luca de Meo announced.

PAY INFLATION: More pressure on businesses and staff.

Photo credit: Pixabay/Joergalman

I HAVE never trusted the SNP. Because I retain quite a number of Scottish friends I have always kept my views pretty much to myself.

Many rather agreed to the quest for independence and despite the fact I would have simply hated to have seen the rebuilding of Hadrian’s Wall and Lord knows how many rules and regulations, including border passport control, a change in currency and a slow decline into oblivion as they endeavoured to rejoin the EU, I always respected their opinions and ideas for an independent Scotland.

To me Scotland will always be independent. To have this glorious country for a partner has always instilled a great deal or pride into the ol boys psyche. Touring and appearing all over, including the notorious Glasgow Empire, has always granted me lifelong wonderful memories.

In my opinion all the SNP were after was control. Nothing they ever did was beneficial to the people of Scotland. All they are truly interested in, is the power and financial gain Scottish independence would bring them. For

Not trusted

15 years they’ve achieved precisely nothing. The Royal Hospital opened nine years late and cost the taxpayer £23 million. Drug deaths have tripled. The NHS maintenance backlog is over £1.3 billion.

The SNP tax rises mean the Scots pay more income tax than any other part of the UK. They are wasting over £8 million a year employing 52 members of staff in overseas offices. They have spent £7 million on government car services with a fleet of chauffer driven cars at their disposal and between 2020 ­ 21 spent over £1.3 million on car trips. They attempted to cover up their loss of a £10 billion Chinese investment. Crime rates are rocketing. I don’t really need to go on.

They are all power mad crooks. Sturgeon’s resignation, in the middle of her ambitions and promise to continue the fight for independence to her last breath, was almost unbelievably suspicious and now with half of her cabinet hurriedly resigned and both she and her husband arrested and questioned, this whole affair

TRAIN STRAIN OUR VIEW

looks like becoming the scandal of the century. The idea of Sturgeon in prison uniform waiting for her dinner in line with fellow female prisoners simply defies the imagination! Welcome back Scotland. The only country in the world I never purchased a brandy ­ not with all that wonderful whisky available.

I’m just trying to take in the reports of the horrendous slaying of the two young students and caretaker of the Nottingham University. Repetitively, as usual, the woke inveigled immigrant authorities are attempting to rule out terrorist connections.

At the time of writing I have no idea of the final decision, but can once again assure all of them that the UK is now impregnated with thousands of these people, all waiting for the call to arms. Heaven help the plunder of the innocents when that time arrives. Which, unless they rid themselves of woke diversity doctrine, most surely will.

Keep the faith. Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail.com

IT seems quite incredible that with the Costa del Sol being such a major tourist attraction there is no way to travel by train from Fuengirola to anywhere along the western coast.

As Spain takes advantage of so much European Funding and is expected to persuade travellers to move out of their cars and use public transport as much as possible there is just no way of catching a train.

There are more and more relatively low cost connections from Malaga City to Cordoba, Madrid and Sevilla, as well as Granada, but apart from a short route to Velez­Malaga nothing east to Axarquia and of course nothing past Fuengirola heading west.

For decades there have been calls to at least extend the suburban rail link to Marbella, if not Estepona, but it seems unlikely that this will ever happen.

The problems of course are three­fold, firstly the cost, secondly the need to take over huge amounts of land currently in private hands and thirdly the time it would take to complete such an operation.

Good news for taxi drivers, the ubiquitous private hire companies and car rentals, but this is not going to help reduce pollution or the number of vehicles currently clogging up the main roads and making parking an often impossible task made worse by those who park on pavements or double park. There are of course bus services, but they can be quite a slog for even the most hardened holidaymaker, often laden down with baggage and maybe a baby carriage and young child.

The same need exists across much of the nation but it’s probably too late to do anything about it.

Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

Mi Colchón - new stores and brand launch

MALAGA-BASED company Mi Colchón continues to take steps to increase its commercial weight in the city with the opening of two new stores and the launch of a new brand.

Mi Colchón will be opening new stores in Estepona and El Viso, investing €2.5 million and cementing themselves as the leading experts in rest on the Costa del Sol. The new Estepona store, situated on Fahrenheit Street in the industrial estate area, will open on July 3, making it the 11th store for the group. It will offer the same high­quality mattresses and armchairs in different styles and provide jobs for two people.

Mi Colchón is also preparing to open a 500 square­metre store in the capital next August, in the same El Viso industrial estate where they are already located. Specifically, the group plans to launch the ‘Nightland’ brand, a new company that will sell medium­ quality mattresses and sofas at affordable prices. Manager of Mi Colchón Jacobo Guerrero said that this new store will

be located on Avenida de Los Vega, 28, and will specialise in holiday rentals. The group will be hiring two people to work in the store.

10 stores and over 80 employees

In parallel to the new openings, Mi Colchón is also undertaking a complete refurbishment of the main store on Avenida de Los Vega, 62, which has been refurbished to improve the shopping experience and to incorporate some of the most in ­ demand brands.

The new store will include a dedicated space for Emma, Tempur and Stressless, brands that are highly recognised by foreign customers living in the province.

Mi Colchón is celebrating the third anniversary of their Benalmadena store, and currently has 10 stores in the province and one in Motril ­ which was their first experience outside Malaga. Although the store has only been open for a few months, it has received a

good reception and large footfall, inspiring the group to look at opening premises in Granada.

From humble beginnings in Palma del Río

Heir to the historic Colchonería El Palo, the Guerrero family has spent more than 40 years focusing on improving sleep and rest for the people of Malaga. The chain originated in Palma del Río (Cordoba) in the early 1980s when Jacobo’s father, Manuel Guerrero, opened a mattress store that quickly achieved great notoriety in the surrounding area.

His entrepreneurial character and spirit of self­improvement brought him to El Palo, where he set up the mattress shop. When Manuel decided to retire 21 years ago, his sons Jacobo and Francisco took over and set up Mi Colchón. Today, Jacobo is at the helm of the business, with aspirations of setting up the largest mattress company in Europe and no limits on the growth of the group ­ which already has an annual turnover of €6 million.

Facebook: micolchon - Instagram: @micolchon_spain - YouTube: @micolchonspain9357 - Website: www.micolchon.com

MI COLCHÓN: Continues their expansion with the opening of two new stores and a new brand.

Visit Mi Colchón in El Viso, El Palo, Suárez and Carretera de Cádiz, Vélez-Málaga, Torre del Mar, Fuengirola, Benalmádena, San Pedro Alcántara and Motril.

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

EVER thought of writing a novel? I’m often asked what it’s really like, so here goes...

Writing novels, a whimsical journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, offers both great benefits but mind­boggling challenges. It’s a wild ride that can be controversial and, at times, downright off­the­wall.

One of its greatest perks is the power to fashion extraordinary worlds out of thin air. You can create realms where pigs fly, people can communicate with plants and gravity decides to take a day off. The boundless freedom to construct unique landscapes and bend reality to your will is like having a backstage pass to the circus of your imagination.

Yet, lurking in the shadows are challenges that would make Sisyphus rethink his boulder­pushing gig. Writer’s block, the bane of your existence, strikes when inspiration is but a distant memory. Your characters may be waiting with bated breath, but your creative juices have gone AWOL. Overcoming this tormenting challenge can be as elusive as finding the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow.

Creating characters is like playing matchmaker with bits of your own personality, sprinkled with a dash of chaos. As a novelist,

THE WRITE STUFF - THE CHALLENGES OF WRITING A NOVEL

greatest critics. Writing novels grants you the extraordinary ability to create characters that are often far more interesting than the people you encounter in real life!

However, be warned! These great characters often develop a mind of their own. They might hijack the plot, taking it in directions you never intended. They’ll insist on having longwinded conversations or make decisions that leave you scratching your head in bewilderment. Trying to rein them in and keep them on track can feel like herding caffeinated cats.

Novels provide a welcome escape from the mundane realities of life. They whisk readers away on a journey, allowing them to engage with fictional heroes and solve convoluted plots. As a novelist, you have the power to create this captivating escape for others, offering them a much­needed respite from the current cost­of­living crisis.

ing to navigate a particularly treacherous maze blindfolded. Every sentence, every paragraph, every page becomes a battleground to get it right.

Writing novels is a bittersweet experience that brings both benefits and challenges. From the thrill of crafting extraordinary worlds and breathing life into characters to the struggle against writer’s block and the torment of editing, the journey of a novelist is wild, controversial and occasionally downright off­thewall.

So, dear aspiring novelists, embrace the chaos, savour the perks and buckle up for the exhilarating rollercoaster ride that awaits you! Who knows? You may just create the next great literary sensation or, at the very least, provide your friends with endless amusement when they discover your unfinished manuscripts buried in a drawer years later...

you get to breathe life into these figments of your imagination, making them walk, talk and embark on adventures. They become your mates, your confidants and occasionally your

Pagan Spain II

LINDA HALL

SPAIN’S biggest celebrations often coincide ­ not entirely by chance ­ with a solstice or equinox.

Valencia’s Fallas are ostensibly burnt in honour of San Jose whose feast­day falls on March 19 near the spring equinox. In Alicante City you have Hogueras on June 24, San Juan’s day, and midsummer as near as dammit, so there is a pagan pedigree too.

Bonfires were always lit in the city and the surrounding countryside on June 24 when pieces of wood and anything that no longer served a useful purpose went up in flames.

Hogueras only left their humble beginnings behind and entered the big time in the 1920s, when Alicante businessmen decided to upgrade them into a Fallas rival.

Meanwhile San Juan bonfires were always lit throughout Spain, often on beaches but also where you wouldn’t expect to find them.

That happened in the small square where I live in inland Valencia Province

when San Juan fell on a Saturday, a working day for me but nobody else.

The jollity began mid ­ morning as people ate and drank their way through industrial quantities of food and alcohol, accompanied by the usual thumping music until late.

It was the last straw when they started hammering away at something and I could hear them breaking up what sounded like wooden pallets.

The shutters were halfway closed and I couldn’t be bothered to investigate even though there was a great deal of shouting. I had been subjected to shouting all day, since silence is a vacuum that people in this part of Spain feel obliged to fill, and it was pointless to look for its source.

That was when I heard a dulzaina, a kind of recorder, and glimpsed a flicker of flames through the shutters. Opening them I saw my neighbours walking with linked hands round a small bonfire.

And yes, some of the younger men did jump over the flames, although at its outer edge, not the centre. Nothing organised, nothing bigtime, just pagan and Christian Spain together.

But once the final word’s been written, the editing process rears its head. It’s a necessary evil that requires a sharp eye, merciless red ink and the willingness to murder the characters you’ve been ‘living’ with for ages. Revising and refining your manuscript can feel like try­

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

Coastal hikes

Catherine McGeer

SPAIN has something for everyone, from its stunning beaches and coastal areas to mountains and vibrant cities. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, Spain’s rich heritage, cuisine, and warm hospitality ensure that you can have a fantastic holiday without ever leaving the country.

With a variety of attractions, historical sites, and natural wonders to discover, Spain truly has it all. Coastal hiking in Spain offers a combination of a beach holiday and a mountain adventure. With that in mind here are some of the best coastal hikes in Spain.

Camino de Ronda (Costa Brava): The Camino de Ronda is a coastal path stretching along Catalonia’s picturesque Costa Brava. It offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and crystalclear waters. One of the most scenic sections of this trail is the stretch from Tossa de Mar to Sant Feliu de Guíxols.

La Ruta del Flysch (Basque Country): Located in the Basque Country, La Ruta del Flysch is a unique coastal trail that showcases impressive geological formations. This 13­kilometre hike begins in the charming town of Zumaia and takes you along towering cliffs and rock formations carved by the sea. The views of the rugged coastline are unforgettable.

Cabo de Gata­Nijar Natural Park (Andalucia): The Cabo de Gata­Nijar Natural Park, situated in the province of Almeria, is a treasure trove of natu­

ral beauty. Its coastal paths offer gentle hikes that reveal stunning volcanic cliffs, pristine beaches, and hidden coves.

Path of the Gods (Caminito del Rey) (Andalucia): The Path of the Gods, is an adventurous yet accessible hike located near Malaga. This path winds along the steep walls of El Chorro Gorge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and the Guadalhorce River. It doesn’t run directly along the coast but it does offer spectacular views of the coastline.

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.

UNIQUE: La Ruta del Flysch in the Basque Country.

Photo credit: Shutterstock/A.Bidaurreta photography

NEATER HEATER WANT ‘SQUIRRELS’ AS CUSTOMERS

RICHARD and Tony from NEATER HEATER are urging all our readers to start prepar ing for next winter now. “We really want people to imitate squirrels,” said Tony “As we know; all the other woodland creatures just laze about in the summer, relaxing.

“So when the winter comes they have to furi ously compete with each other for the scraps left over or hide away and hibernate, waiting for next summer.

But not the squirrels! Squirrels plan for the winter by hoarding nuts, berries and seeds in the summer, so when winter comes they are well prepared for it, and are

SQUIRRELS: Are well prepared for the winter during the summer and so should you be.

nice bright winter days when the sun does come out. They are obviously the wisest creatures in the wood. And that is what we want our customers to be.”

“What Tony is trying to say” interjected Richard, “is that when winter finally arrives in Spain, northern Europe has been cold for months. This means that Chilly Czechs, Frozen Fins and Shivering Swedes have been stripping the shelves for months. Every year we have panicking customers calling us in December,

NEATER HEATER DISTRIBUTORS: COSTA DEL SOL CALAHONDA: The Bed Warehouse Spain. Tel. 634 187 700 Heaters also available for purchase at our online shop with free home delivery WWW.NEATERHEATER.ES or Tel. 634 312 171 (WhatsApp available)

They make it easy!

I KNOW I’m a grumpy old sod but the world around me don’t half make it easy.

I have written about my car before and people spoke to me and said it was something that ticked them off too. But this one has given me the serious hump.

I got in my car after being away for two weeks and two warning lights came on, one saying ‘code 82’ and the other was a filter light. So having three years warranty and three years free servicing, I wasn’t too worried. I looked up ‘code 82’ in the hand book and it just said ‘change oil soon’. I thought that was strange as I’ve only done 18,000 miles in two and a half years.

I take it to my local garage where I purchased the car but who now don’t sell them as Chevrolet has pulled out of Europe. The mechanic then proceeds to tell me I’ve been driving the car wrong and it’s all my fault and it’s not covered by god knows how many warranties I have on the car.

What? How can I be driving it wrong? It’s a

fully automatic turbo diesel and, for your information young man, I’ve been driving for 50 years and never had an accident! What came next left me flabbergasted like never before. He says I can’t turn the engine off; I mustn’t drive it out of the garage because if I do and I quote ‘you will break the engine. We have to change the engine oil immediately!’

Wait - it gets better. He asks me if when I stop, the engine fan carries on after I turn the engine off? “Yes, it does sometimes”. “Oh. Well if it does, start it up again and take it for a run getting it up over 3000 rpm”. “Are you loco?” “I’ve just got home why would I want to go out again?” “You have to take the car to Malaga once a week reaching 4000rpm. Don’t use the automatic gearbox.” “Whoa, whoa hombre, what are you talking about?

Why on earth would I want to do that?” “Because these cars, and many others, have this problem with big diesel engines.” I just couldn’t believe what I was hearing. That just doesn’t make any sense that the car I paid extra for to have an automatic gearbox I have to drive manually, at speeds that break the law, to a place I don’t want to go to at least once a week! “Oh and it’s going to cost you €207 too.”

I now have to phone GM Europe and find out exactly what’s going on because surely this can’t be right. I’ll let you know!

desperate to have heaters supplied and fitted by Christmas. Frequently these customers have to compromise on their choice, or be put at the back of a long queue. Every year we think to ourselves ­ ‘It’s a shame you didn’t order them in the summer when we had loads of them in stock and, equally as important, the time to process the orders’.”

NEATER HEATER is the sole Spanish distributor for BEHA and ADAX NEO convector heaters. We currently have more stock than ever before at various locations, just waiting for the ‘squirrels’. Please feel free to call us on 634 312 171 for more information, or visit our web site www.neaterheater.es , or email info@neaterheater.es.

Sleep apnea, internal & pulmonary medicine expert

SINCE September 2001, Dr Gabriel Grabowski has successfully operated a practice for internal and pulmonary medicine in Nuremberg and, in May 2022, he opened a second office as a lung specialist in cooperation with internist Dr Lorenzo da Silva in La Cala de Mijas.

For Dr Grabowski, preventative care is essential to a positive and healthy life. That’s why he now works in cooperation with the prestigious Vogue Clinic in Estepona, where he is a dedicated internist and lung specialist.

Previously an aesthetic clinic, the Vogue Clinic now covers all aspects of health ­ internal and external. This includes ultrasounds and testing, lung treatments, and abdomen issues.

Lung and respiratory diseases are among the most frequent internal medical problems. Even to­

day, diagnosis is often too late, which limits the therapeutic options, as the progression of the disease leads to functional disorders that cannot be cured.

With the combination of internal medicine, pulmonary medicine and targeted preventive

health care, Vogue Clinic provides holistic patient care, underpinned by the knowledge that health is the foundation for a positive quality of life. In internal medicine, the focus of the practice is general preventive health care, which centres around avoiding the de­

velopment of diseases or detecting them at an early, easier treatable stage. The goal is an early diagnosis and optimal medical care.

Do you know the reason for your tiredness?

Dr Grabowski is also a specialist in diagnosing sleep apnea, helping clients suffering from symptoms such as snoring, feeling tired during the day, waking with a dry mouth or sore throat, mood changes such as irritability, having trouble concentrating during the day and frequent morning headaches. The majority of people suffering from sleep apnea are not aware that they have the condition ­ that’s where Dr Grabowski comes in.

Sleep apnea is a potentially dangerous chronic health condition that causes your breathing to pause when you are sleeping. During sleep, when the throat

Do it gradually

FORGET the old assumption that you must first go red to get a suntan.

Abi Cleeve, a beauty expert and managing director of a sun­protection firm, explained that the skin turns darker in the sun as it releases melanin to protect itself.

That did not mean it was necessary to turn lobster­red first, she insisted.

and tongue muscles are more relaxed, the soft tissue can cause the airway to become blocked and cause a pause in breathing. You can’t get enough air, which can lower the oxygen level in your blood. Your brain senses your inability to breathe and briefly rouses you from sleep so that you can reopen your airway.

This pattern can repeat itself five to 30 times or more each hour, all night, impairing your ability to reach the deep, restful phases of sleep that you need.

Dr Grabowski diagnoses his patients by providing them with a small device to use during the night at home, monitoring sleeping patterns and the type of sleep apnea a patient may have. Depending on the type of sleep apnea, he will then provide therapy to treat this chronic and dangerous condition.

“As soon as the skin goes red, it’s in trauma.”

The skin appears to have tanned quickly but has burned, ensuring that you will eventually peel, she added.

To avoid this, Cleeve recommended gradually building up time spent in the sun, using a higher SPF sunblock to protect the skin while still getting a tan.

Dr Grabowski.

1

No 1 healthiest food in world is lentils.

HAND strength has always been tied to general wellbeing.

A person’s grip is also a biomarker for overall health owing to its links with many other health ­ related variables.

These include bone­mineral density, nutrition, cognitive impairment, sleep problems and quality of life, according to Richard Bohannon, author of ‘An Indispensable Biomarker for Older Adults’.

An earlier 2015 study, which monitored nearly 140,000 older adults over four years, found that a frail grip was related to higher incidences of heart attack, stroke and cardiovascular disease. The researchers also found that it foretold the likelihood of early death more effectively than blood pressure.

Get a grip

HAND STRENGTH: Long-accepted as a biomarker for overall health.

A COLD shower could result in fewer days off sick.

The results of a study published in Public Library of Science (PLOS) journal found that 29 per cent of those who turned on the cold tap for 30, 60 or 90 seconds needed less sick leave compared with people who had warm showers. The cold shower group also felt they had bet­

Cold comfort

ter quality of life and suffered less anxiety. Researchers concluded that the cold water stimulated leukocytes, the immune cells that help fight off infection, and increased levels of elating endorphins.

Spanish beaches LETTERS

I lived for almost 10 years close to Nerja in southern Spain where the beaches were supposed to be safe as it is an upmarket tourist spot. Raw sewage was pumped directly into the water as the local authorities had not finished building the waste treatment plant, even though they had been allocated the money to do so. The EU fined them thousands of euros yet it still didn’t get completed. That is only one instance reported whilst I was living there, as another previously named blue flag beach was at Caleta and Torre del Mar, yet it was reported the mussel farms had to be closed because the sea water was contaminated.

Alan

Cooks warning

You wrote: Neither meat nor fish should be washed and do not need any additional treatment such as washing. You have no clue what you are talking about. Even the Spanish health authority mandatory classes for restaurant workers tell you to wash all fresh meat in water (no soap) before cooking, to remove bone fragments and specks of fecal matter. As long as proper kitchen cleanliness rules are followed, there is little chance of cross contamination.

Ernst Tibres

Thank you

Editor’s letter

We thank you and everyone who spoke about our cause and supported us, and we hope that everyone will stand with us because there is a humanitarian issue that must be highlighted and that the detainees of the Religion of Peace and AlNour Al ­ Ahmadi detainees in Turkey be immediately released and this tragic file be ended as quickly as possible.

Shadi Mahdi

Sad subject

Thank you so much Euro Weekly News for cover up on this sad subject in the injustice, torture and violation of human rights, it is a criminal act against humanity and we hope that human rights organisations will intervene immediately and save the lives of innocent people.

Nesrin

A better world

Hey, Euro Weekly News it’s so amazing to see a beating heart behind a news report. We thank you for collaborating with humanity and making this world a better world just by bringing to light important

matters that otherwise have no voice and are shouting at every second “help!” and “injustice!” Thank you.

Veronica

Short flights

Agree with Alexander, this is just headlining actions without real facts and data. Are they going to keep prices low and services as at least equal to flying, no stop changes and in some cases longer travel times?

DJH

Vaccine passports

This is another attempt at a controlling mechanism. It is quite clear from the Covid era that none of the so called ‘vaccines stopped or prevented transmission’, and were there for monitoring and control purposes. People are now aware of this overwatch mentality under the guise of ‘Virus control’. Fool me once shame on you, Fool me twice shame on me!

Mark

Very fair

Dear Sir,

Not one for usually adding comment to newspaper articles, I would just like to thank you for your recent article Leapy.

Absolutely fantastic piece to which I concur 100 per cent and written in such a frank, common sense and experienced tone and yet very fair.

It is rare these days to hear a voice that reflects mine and my wife’s view, as we become more ignored by the powers that be in the UK or Spain.

Thank you once again and continue your wonderful articles. Keep up the good work and keep the faith : )

Steve (60 years) Jalon, Marina Alta and Leeds UK

San Juan

Having bonfire night and fireworks so near the summer solstice is pretty silly. Much better to have them at a time when it gets dark earlier, so that you can enjoy the fireworks and then still get a good night’s sleep. November is much better.

Joe

Flamingo colony

Tell them to come to our salt water lagoon near Obidos, Portugal. It’s the biggest salt water lagoon in Europe and it’s fed by the Atlantic so never dries up.

David Goulty

MARBELLA MOMENTS

BY NICOLE KING

I DROVE into the car park where I always leave my car on the days I go to record Marbella Now at the RTV Marbella studios. This week I was surprised to see an armed guard at the entrance, but perhaps this is a sign not just of the times but of things to come, at least over the next few summer months.

I’m all about promoting love, happiness, unity and the sense of wonder that is

A safe summer

quite palpable in our La La Land City, nevertheless, every ying has its yang and delinquency is part of our flipside.

With no intention of being an alarmist, I do just wish to remind everyone that we need to have our wits about us. I too have fallen victim to the random thief that takes advantage of our whimsical existence in the sun, thankfully just on the pickpocket level. There are individuals and

groups that specifically target us with many different malevolent intentions, so we need to constantly remind ourselves to be aware of our surroundings, no matter how brightly the sun shines.

I don’t watch the news nor wish to indulge in negative influences, but I do think it pertinent to keep abreast of local happenings, good and bad. I’ve found one of the most comprehensive sources of information is a social media page called ‘Marbella se queja’ (Marbella complains) which provides information of all sorts, almost in real ­ time.Nearly 70,000 people follow the MarbellaSeQueja2021 Instagram page, so not only do we get to know the owner Diego’s personal opinions, but also the updates he receives regard­

ing lost and found animals, keys, documentation, ‘phones etc, as well as complaints about local installations, accidents, incidents and acts of delinquency; basically, everything that’s going on in the city, day and night.

I think it’s a shame when international residents don’t speak Spanish for the obvious reasons of missing out on the simple pleasures of chatting with the locals, learning to really understand and appreciate the traditions, culture and quirks, but also our lack of information puts us at a disadvantage in many other aspects. Anyway, again, not to burst the bubble on anyone’s holiday vibe, suffice to say that being aware of our surroundings, taking extra care in car parks, underground or supermarket areas, keeping

www.nicoleking.es

A medical emergency

THE British Benevolent Fund was founded over a century ago to provide assistance for UK nationals in Spain facing extreme financial hardshipwhether resident, visiting or in between. Over the weekend the BBF was alerted to a case of a young man of 28 who suffered a medical emergency whilst on a trip to Benidorm with his friends.

A medical emergency that is continuing to this day.

Jack was taken to A&E after he had collapsed on a night out.

He is Type 1 diabetic.

The initial diagnosis was that he had collapsed due to extremely low blood glucose and admitted to ICU.

He needed a tracheotomy and feeding tube. He had seizures and swelling of the brain and was moved to a specialist traumatology ward where the doctors concluded he had most likely also suffered brain damage.

At one point the doctors were contemplating the worst.

But Jack’s time is not yet.

Jack cannot travel yet but he needs to be returned home to receive ongoing treatment and care.

It is likely that his life will be significantly impaired even with the best care.

His parents came over straight away and visit him as much as they are allowed.

They cannot stay indefinitely. Their insurance company will not cover the cost of Jack’s repatriation because he did

not declare his condition.

The family have set up a crowdfunding page and we are working with the consulate and our partner charity Help Benidorm to get Jack home.

It’s a lot of money.

A private medical flight is a king’s ransom ­ but there is no other way of getting him home. The BBF is supporting Jack’s family to our best ability ­ we can only do this with your support and donations that allow for people who have to face the worst that life can throw them alone ­ Jack is one of many who need all our help.

If you would like to support our work, please visit www.britishbenevolentfund.o rg to make a donation. Thank you, Olaf Clayton, Chair BBF.

yourself a safe summer.

our kids close to us at all times, being extra wary of the tourists that drive and cross the roads as if in oblivion, the motorbikes and cyclists that appear as if from nowhere, as well as avoiding confrontation and never leaving your drink unattended at bars are just a few of the advisable measures to help ensure that we all have a fun and safe summer.

PS. Tonight at 9.30pm on RTV Marbella a new episode of Marbella Now with guests including Dylan King of the new Twisted Art Gallery, Boho Club Marbella announcing their summer special menus and events and a new real estate development partnership between Dar Global & Lamborghini hosting an extravaganza at Puerto Banus.

Wine friend summer

LOUIE ON WINE

Article

by Louie Rodrigues

WHILST most are preparing for their Hot Girl Summer ­ becoming the healthiest, happiest version of yourself ­ I’ve been focusing on something a little, well, different. I’m prepping for my Wine Friend Summer (WFS). Having just moved to Spain, this will be my first WFS here, and it’s essential I do some prep.

So what is a WFS? Well, it’s being the friend who’s always good for a wine recommendation, the friend you want to pick the wine for your special occasion, the friend you ask to try the wine at a restaurant: that friend, is me.

The prep list:

You need at least three obscure wine references. Telling the truth is optional.

Example:

If you like this, I’ll ship over a bottle of my favourite, this is nothing compared. Oh, there’s no way you’ve had it, it’s made by monks. I actually helped press the latest vintage, with my feet.

Tasting notes that are hard to disprove:

Oh, this brings me right back to the grass my auntie’s summerhouse in the south of France, on a day three cut.

Stock of a good quality wine that you can whip out of every party invite:

My favourites right now are absolutely anything from Recaredo. Miranius from their Cellar Credo range is a party pleaser.

And knowledge:

Channel your inner master of wine and give the movie ‘Somm’ a watch. You’ll soon be smelling fresh tennis balls and wet forest floor in every glass.

Watch out summer, hear I come. Or here WE come.

Olaf Clayton of BBF.

Jack Stone.

Clean camping Outjoyment Report

THIS camping accessory is a must­have and will convert many non­campers into camping aficionados. The lack of showering facilities is high on the list of reasons why people steer clear of camping. A number of camping shops and websites are now selling portable outdoor shower systems. These portable showers are pretty compact and come equipped with a water tank or pump that can be heated by battery or solar power. Some brands provide a hook to hang the shower from a tree or a vehicle to make the experience more comfortable.

They range in price from €10.99 to €50. If you travel light while camping or are still not convinced camping is for you, it still might be a worthwhile purchase. Many users recommend them saying they are convenient to have in your garden or terrace to shower off after the beach. They can also be used to wash your pet or for watering areas in your garden or home where a hose cannot reach.

Anna Ellis

A MAJOR new study has revealed how camping in the great outdoors improves people’s well­being and mental health.

The Outjoyment Report was commissioned by the Camping and Caravanning Club and undertaken by a team of academics at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) and Sheffield Hallam University.

The study included a survey of nearly 11,000 campers and non­campers, assessing their attitudes towards the benefits of all types of camping such as pitching up in a tent, caravan or motorhome, or going glamping.

Glamping bubbles

Catherine McGeer

Sabina Voysey, The Camping and Caravanning Club’s Director General, said: “The findings of The Outjoyment Report have never been so relevant as they are today. Camping in all its different forms puts us on the doorstep of the great outdoors and provides a clear pathway to a healthier and happier lifestyle ­ one in which people appreciate nature more and are active outdoors.

“Given the many negative events that have been happening in recent times at home and abroad, anything that helps people to feel better about themselves and each other is vitally important.”

CAMPING is back in fashion and with that, we have seen a rise in a variety of different camping and glamping experiences. From luxurious cabins with private bathtubs on the terrace to Tipi and Yurt camping.

Another camping experience that is growing worldwide is Glamping bubbles or domes. The craze started in areas like Lapland where the Northern lights are visible, hotels began providing glass domes as accommodation for a perfect view of the Northern lights and the starry skies. This type of accommodation became more popular in other rural areas throughout Europe and now it is in demand worldwide.

This type of accommodation is usually on a plot of land with a beautiful rural view and is a favourite with stargazers,

some glamping bubbles come equipped with a telescope. They usually have a statement bed in the centre of the bubble/dome with beautiful clean natural décor and a private bathroom. Some bubble hotels even offer a private sauna or pool. For people who like to connect with nature but

don’t enjoy the rustic qualities of camping in a tent, this could be the perfect option. If you prefer to ‘glamp’ by the sea, bubble hotels are popping up along the coast now too. You can even purchase your own DIY bubble tent if you like camping in your backyard!

Glamping bubbles are in demand worldwide.

Photo credit: green land bubble hotel website

BILL ANDERSON A PUBLIC SERVANT

I’M over it. The elections that is. From this point on, I accept my lot and the lot of Mijas, but I am out of it. I had a conversation this week with an interested resident about the independence of otherwise of the local political parties. Bottom line is that there is very little. All of the parties in power in Mijas and all of those in opposition are hierarchical. What does that mean? Quite simply that they are not at liberty to work solely for the needs of the municipality, but must pay heed to the messages from the upper ranks of the Provincial, Regional and National parties, and often just follow the orders, or else.

In Mijas, Ana Mata, an Andalucian Parliamentarian, was slotted into the PP list on the orders of the Provincial Party. Actually, I think she was a good addition. A smart lady with political experience and a lot to contribute, but still at the instructions of the higher levels. At least she is a Mijas resident which is more than can be said for some of the councillors.

The shenanigans of the Ciudadanos Party during the 2015 legislature was on

VOICES FROM ABOVE

politics before, I can’t say whether it is the same in the UK or in other countries, but I suspect it is.

“So, just go independent,” they told me. Not an easy task in Spain where only registered political parties can stand in the elections and in Mijas, 25 people have to be presented on the list. Maybe for a younger person, but I neither have the energy nor the ambition to go in that direction.

the instructions of the National party: “get rid of political opponents by wrapping them up in court cases for years”.

The latest example of this was from what we thought was an independent party, ‘Por mi Pueblo’ which got one seat in the person of Juan Carlos Maldonado. Maldonado decided to cast his vote with PSOE and Ciudadanos, and now the party which sees itself leaning more to the right than to the left, wants

him to be expelled and for him to be installed as a councillor without a party ‘no adscrito’. In his investiture he was cited as Por mi Pueblo, but the higher ups in the party are not at all happy with him and he may yet have to leave the party or be pushed out. It all depends on whether the powers that be see more value in getting rid of him or his adding to their toll of seats regionally.

Having never been involved in party

The voices that determine the direction of political parties should come from the people and not from above. Parties don’t pay councillors’ salaries, the people do, and when parties get involved it is usually as a form of political chess, where moves are exchanged for later favours in the lucrative unelected bodies such as the Mancomunidad and Diputación where salaries can reach over €70,000.

I once asked a mayor if he had to choose between his party and the wellbeing of the people which would he choose? His silence said it all. The voices from above were louder than the voices from the ballot box. This is what we call democracy.

TRICKY DICKY IS NOT THE ANSWER

ABOUT 10 times a year I watch the juvenile farce called ‘Prime Minister’s Questions’, hoping that something will have changed.

Since Boris Johnson became Prime Minister I have never heard an attempt to respond to the Opposition Leader’s question. Instead there is a tirade of irrelevant fictitious statistics, blame games, excuses, personal insults and total complacency. After the Liz Truss interval it has continued with ‘Tricky Dicky’ Sunak ­ in this respect a clone of Johnson.

How then, can we ever expect the nation’s problems to be solved by the Conservatives? And what are these problems? Hmmm, where do we start? Perhaps with the ineptitude and arrogance of the government and the resulting Johnson legacy.

The handling of Covid and the results of Brexit have been a disaster. The UK has no control over immigration and, with growing illiter­

acy and innumeracy, a shortage of labour. The health service and care homes are dangerously unreliable. Inflation and the economy are out of control and the country is on the brink of recession. There are no significant guaranteed trade deals. Solutions to many of the above issues were pledges by the Conservatives for re­election.

Furthermore, the police, judiciary and prisons are in a state of crisis; the roads are peppered with potholes; the rivers and coastlines are infested with untreated

sewage; racism is endemic in many institutions; the children are the unhealthiest in Europe.

Then the strikes. We know that, after two ­ and ­ a ­ half years of Sunak’s chancellorship, there is no money left to satisfy the demands of the unions. Millions of people are under real hardship with rampant inflation (the highest in Europe), soaring food, energy and mortgage costs and no increase in their income. Because the Prime Minister refused to meet and negotiate with the unions, the situa­

tion was exacerbated by hugely disruptive strikes in the public sector, including health workers, teachers, transport workers, border controllers, the passport office, fire brigades and civil servants.

Since 1939 (my lifetime), Britain has never needed effective, accountable leadership more than today. Since David ‘Cameraman’, two rather different image­obsessed incumbents have occupied Number 10. Admittedly, being Prime Minister in these circum­

stances is an incredibly difficult job. It makes managing England’s football team seem like a walk in the park. Having said that, I would not trust anything ‘Tricky Dicky’ says, any more than ‘Honest Boris’.

Do I have a solution? No. Except that the UK needs a fundamental change. After 13 years in opposition, who knows how Labour would perform? Under Keir Starmer, growing into the role, things could hardly be worse than they are now. And, once a new government is installed to pick up the pieces and repair the damage, many more things will need to change. It could take decades.

Sunak is the question ­ not the answer. Any idea that the Conservatives deserve another chance next year is simply loopy.

For more from our columnists please scan this QR Code

MAKING A CHOICE: This is what we call democracy.

David Worboys’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors .

Sunak and Southgate. Two of the most high-profile men in the UK. Leadership demands honesty, judgement - and results.

Photo credits: wealthyspy.com and Eurosport2

PETS

Dog-sitters come to your home

YOU may be planning a trip this summer and thinking about how to find dog­sitters who come to your home. Well we can help. We have dog­sitters and house­sitters who love to come to Spain to care for your pets as part of their working holiday in exchange for free accommodation.

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.

Revolutionary injection

Catherine McGeer

Sometimes

How does it work?

HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert saying when you are going on holiday. House­sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter who’ll care for your pets. Trustpilot Testimonials ­ 4.9 / 5 Excellent 10 out of 10 for 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

LIVING with pets brings immense joy and companionship, but it also comes with the inevitable challenge of dealing with pet hair.

Whether you have a lovable dog or a cuddly cat, the sight of their hair scattered around the house can be a bit overwhelming. However, fret not we will discover the tricks to effectively clean the hair that our beloved pets leave behind. One of the most effective ways to combat pet hair buildup is through regular grooming sessions.

Depending on the type of pet you have, establish a grooming routine that includes brushing or combing their fur. This not only helps to remove loose hair before it has a chance to scatter

CAT sterilisation is widely recommended by veterinarians and animal welfare organisations as a responsible approach to cat care, population control, and promoting the well ­ being of both individual cats and the community as a whole. For this reason, veterinarians recommend sterilising cats to improve living conditions and prevent certain health issues associated with uncontrolled reproduction.

The CER method (capture, sterilisation, and return) is commonly used to manage cat colonies and prevent overcrowding. A recent study published in Nature Communications introduced a new injection developed in the United States for sterilising female cats.

Fur-bidden mess

around the house, but also promotes healthy skin and reduces shedding.

To efficiently tackle pet hair, it’s essential to invest in the right tools. Consider purchasing a high ­ quality pet brush or de ­ shedding tool that suits your pet’s coat type. Additionally, lint rollers and vacuum cleaners with pet­specific attachments can be helpful.

To prevent pet hair from embedding itself deep into upholstery and bedding, consider using protective covers or throws. These covers are easy to remove and wash,

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

making it simple to keep your furniture and bedding free from pet hair.

Living with pets doesn’t mean you have to surrender to the constant battle against pet hair. Remember, regular

grooming, investing in the right tools, and maintaining a cleaning routine are key to keeping your living space clean and comfortable for both you and your furry friend.

RESPONSIBLE: Injection initiative safer and kinder.

The injection delivers a hormone called anti­Müllerian hormone (AMH) that inhibits ovulation and prevents pregnancy. The study involved nine female cats, with six receiving the treatment and three serving as a control group.

The initial results showed the method’s effectiveness without any observed side effects after four years.

While there may still

be considerations and further research needed, the injection method for sterilising cats shows potential as a positive step towards improving the welfare of domestic cats and those in colonies.

The use of injections is seen as preferable to invasive surgeries with open wounds, especially when considering the subsequent release of cats into the environment.

PET HAIR: Keep your home clean and fur-free.

our dogs need to be cared in their own home.

REMOVALS & STORAGE

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

UNIFORMS

AIR CONDITIONING by Cool and Cosy. The family company that cares. Installation and repairs. Quality machines. Ecosense movement sensors supplied and fitted from 100 Euros. For other energy-saving products visit www.coolandcosy.es. 952 935 513. We are Junta de Andalucia authorised installers as the new law states (real decreto 115/2017). On the Costa del Sol since 1993 (303283)

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

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

ACE OF SHADES – All colours available. Urbanisations catered for, electric and manual operation; also recovery service

available, largest selection of colours and designs on the coast. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design

T1(101730)

SUNSHINE AWNINGS/BLINDS

Awnings, Persiana, Shutter & Rejas Specialist. New & Repairs. 25yrs on the coast. 680 323 969 / 952 199 640 (303016)

ACE OF SHADES - Vertical, Venetian, Roman, Roller, Wooden blinds, various colours available, also black-out blinds. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design (101730)

BLINDS, awnings, mosquito screens, curtains, vast choice. All areas covered. Coast and inland. 655 825 931 (302477)

MOSQUITO screens, sliding, pulldown, pleated, colours call Mosquito Nick 647 072 861 www.mosquitonick.ws (303679)

SOLAR BLINDS

SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for large glazed areas to reflect heat / glare and stop furniture fading and still keep the view. SAVE

HEAT IN THE WINTER to improve your living environment. ian@solar shadetinting.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (303296)

SWINGLES CASAS SL . For all your building needs. Visit www.swinglescasas.com for more details or call 635 999 765 / 666 960 262 (295953)

PLUMBING & GENERAL BUILDING All your plumbing needs. Bathroom, kitchens, tiling & painting. Benalmadena based, travel no problem. Glen 669 073 773 or Paul 642 098 115 (290158)

REAL ESTATE website for sale, turn-key, with 10.000+ listings,24/7 updates, etc..., training available, ideal for starting entrepreneurs,15.000€,602 457 322 (303696)

JIM’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS. Bathrooms / kitchen reforms, repairs, plumbing, carpentry, painting, tiling, maintenance. Give us a call no job too small. 692 207 799 / 645 559 423 (303368)

www.handymanservices.es Electrician, plumbing, construction, painting. Innovation. ROT deduction for Swedish, Sotogrande to Marbella 648 712 530 (302411)

GENERAL BUILDER , Tiling, plastering, painting, electrician, plumber, carpentry. Reasonable prices. 635 913 885 (References available) (303486)

QUALITY renovation: Kitchens, bathrooms, tiling, windows, doors, plastering, Total property renovations info@mas terbuildspain.com 952663141 /670409759 Over 28 years renovating history in Spain (302479)

METALWORK

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

VERY profitable turn key classic car business for sale due to family reasons; proven turnover; international clientele; mainly online sales; no technical experience needed; training provided by current owner; 195,000€ all in Info: 699 545 480 (303696)

HOUSE CLEARANCE SPECIALISTS , FULL OR PART CLEARANCE. ALL FURNITURE WANTED, WE PAY MORE. TEL 634 324 914 OR EMAIL houseclearanceman@hot mail.com (301543)

PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

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

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

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

COLLECTIVE CALLING are urgently requesting donations of clothing, homeware & furniture, so if you are having a House Clearance, Please call us for FREE COLLECTION. We sell good quality items, which then supports low-income families and the homeless in the community. These items can be dropped directly to our charity shop Tienda Solidaria: Av. Pablo Ruiz Picasso, 4, San Pedro de Alcantara, alternatively, call us to arrange collection on +34 711 006 961 (295137)

CHIMNEY SERVICES

FILMS

in English

PLAZA MAYOR CINEMA

Malaga

ASTEROID CITY

THU: 18:15

FRI, SAT, SUN, MON, TUE: 17:55

FLASH

THU: 17:30, 20:30

FRI, SAT, SUN, MON, TUE: 18:00, 21:00

SUN: 14:15

SPIDER-MAN : ACROSS THE SPIDER VERSE

SUN: 13:10

TUE: 20:45

NO HARD FEELINGS

TUE: 19:10

LITTLE MERMAID

TUE: 22:15

INDIANA JONES & THE DIAL OF DESTINY

WED: 17:25, 20:30

RED DOG CINEMA

Puerto Banus

WED, THU: 17:15, 20:00, 21:00

FRI, MON, TUE: 17:00, 19:30, 22:00

SAT, SUN: 15:00, 17:40, 20:15, 21:00

TRANSFORMERS : RISE OF THE BEASTS

WED, THU: 19:30, 21:45

FRI, MON, TUE: 19:30

SAT, SUN: 17:30

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY : VOL 3

WED, THU, FRI, MON, TUE: 19:00

SAT, SUN: 16:40

FAST X

WED, THU, FRI, MON, TUE: 21:40

SAT, SUN: 19:20

SUPER MARIO BROS MOVIE

WED, THU, FRI, MON, TUE: 17:15

SAT, SUN: 12:00, 15:00

THE BOOGEYMAN

WED, THU, FRI, SAT, SUN, MON, TUE: 22:00

SPIDER-MAN : ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE

WED, THU, FRI, MON, TUE: 17:00, 19:30

SAT, SUN: 12:00, 15:15, 18:45, 20:30

KANDAHAR

WED, THU: 17:00, 19:15

FRI, MON, TUE: 22:00

SAT, SUN: 19:50

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

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

CHURCH SERVICES

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

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

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

CLEANING/MAINTENANCE

ADVANCED Cleaning Services. Professional carpet, upholstery cleaning, 27 years experience, wet/dry clean. Honest, reliable service 678 808 837 / 952 669 701 or email acservs@outlook.com (290189)

UPHOLSTERY including leather cleaned also carpets. 685 524 921 (290189)

REYES PROPERTY SERVICES Est. over 25 years. Rental management. Tailor made for your all property needs. Call Wendy 635 630 370 (303017)

INSURANCE

STARLIGHT Property Cleaning & Maintenance. All types of cleaning. Any size of property. All Areas. Residential & Holiday Lets. Call 682 636 451 www.star light-spain.com (302566)

DECORATORS

RAINBOW Pinturas. English Painters & decorators. All aspects. Interior/exterior, private residential, commercial & communities. Spraying: door, kitchens & furniture. Light construction. Call/WhatsApp: Daniel: 628 066 308 www.rainbowpinturas.com (302592)

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

DOMESTIC APP REP

DOMESTIC appliance repairs washing machines fridges cookers ovens water heaters gas electric professionally repaired 608 337 497 (296265)

WASHING MACHINES , Ovens, Boilers etc. All work guaranteed by ex Zanussi technician. Reliable rapid service. Joe 609 345 096 (303716)

DRAINAGE

BLOCKED DRAINS? Leak detection, CCTV survey, root removal, Tel 952 568 414 / 661 910 772 / drainspain.com (294321)

ELECTRICIAN

ALL TYPES OF ELECTRICAL work, re-wiring, fault finding. Professional & experienced. Frank Tel. or Whatsapp 650 561 629 (303497)

FLOOR POLISHING

MARBLE FLOOR (2.50€/m2) WHY PAY MORE. WE CLEAN, CRYSTALLISE, SEAL THEN POLISH YOUR MARBLE TO HIGH GLOSS, NON-SLIP. PROFESSIONAL GUARANTEED, FAST SERVICE. 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE. ALSO REPAIRS DAMAGES TO MARBLE, CLEAN AND SEAL TERRACOTTA TERRACES, COVERS ALL COSTA DEL SOL.

TEL: 671 244 683

MARBLE FLOORS polished high shine non-slip. Fast Service Reliable, family-run business. TERRACOTTA CLEANED and sealed. No job too small. Cleansol 10am – 10pm 7 days all areas. 952 930 861 / 607 610 578 Discount code: EWN 1 CLEAN (206437)

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

FOR SALE/WANTED

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

FRIENDSHIP

MAN 64 not vaccinated, seeks friendship with an unvaccinated woman. Similar age, sincere, reasonable, balanced, humanitarian, kind, good person who likes alternative aspects-spirituality. 619805714 (303608)

FURNITURE

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

GARDENING

PROFESSIONAL garden services from Fuengirola to Estepona. All aspects of gardening and full maintenance and landscaping, free quotes, competitive prices. Contact Andrew 600 259 981 Andrew@ garden-professionals.com (295350)

IRRIGATION

IRIS-IRRIGATION and landscapes. TRENCHLESS NO DIG Irrigation installation, Cables, Fibre Optic, Electric & Lighting Cables. New Installations & problem-solving. Turf (supply and laying). Garden constructions. Tree surgeon. Clearing. Astro Turf (Free Quotation) 676 747 521 (303376)

GATE REPAIRS

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

GATES

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

GENERAL SERVICES

FUENGIROLA – Reliable lady available for Cleaning, Care & Baby-Sitting services. 624 486 469 (301298)

GLASS CURTAINS

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

HANDYMAN

HANDYMAN: General Masonry work, painting, wall/roof waterproofing & other jobs. Call Michael 622 755 666 (303616)

HEALTH & BEAUTY

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

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

VINYL WRAP

VINYL SOLUTIONS WHY REPLACE WHEN YOU CAN RENOVATE? Modern adhesive vinyl coverings in hundreds of styles and designs can renovate a tired kitchen, bathroom, wall panels, bedroom wardrobes, fridge doors. Turn a tired looking wood designed kitchen into a modern solid colour or metallic look without painting or replacing. Work carried out on site with 10 year warranties Contact Ian 644 546 176 for design brochure and samples.

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

ALHAURIN FURNITURE

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

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

STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www.abbey gateinsure.com (291234)

ENGLISH LOCKSMITHS, SECURITY & SHADE EXPERTS. FREE HOME SECURITY SURVEY. 636 770 865 / 952 660 233

WWW.SECURITYOF SPAIN.COM CONTACT DAREN (303056) T1

ENGLISH LOCKSMITH emergency & appointment, locks changed, patio doors & windows secured. All locks supplied insurance approved. Fast & reliable service. No hidden extras or nasty surprises. 657 466 803 www.a1locksmiths.es

RELAXING Massage for Men & Couples. Feel free from tension & stress Call Dany 603 202 758 (303708)

SAN PEDRO. Sandra. Professional relaxing, tantric massage. Young, slim, work alone, unforgettable moments. Nueva Andalucia. 641 346 278

MATURE elegant lady. Offers tantric and other massage. Personal home visits. 687 387 680 (286295)tp3

PURE RELAXATION in Nueva Andalucia with attractive independent masseuse. Tantric and other special massages in private apartment. For gentlemen and couples, with no rush attention to your needs 656 350 401

ENGLISH ELEGANT independent & affectionate lady in late 40s, gives a sensual golfers massage to relieve tension in her discreet private apartment. Satisfaction guaranteed. Call 680 177 569 (303362)

CASSIE. Mature English lady. Discreet and clean. 667 914 732 (FU 2994)

RIVIERA DEL SOL . Dana, Cuban masseuse, fun and spontaneous. My hands will offer you a unique experience, with a mixture of smells, sounds, sensations . Contact me without obligation 951274723, 650237145. (302727)

CALAHONDA . Leila, Arab masseuse, expert in the art of seduction and tantric massage. Authentic masseuse who manages to transmit the physical and emotional pleasure with the 5 senses. Tantric massage, sensual or body to body to perfection. Make an appointment. 650 237 145 (302727)

BUTTERFLY - Massage, is the ideal place for people with high sensitivity, with a taste for body to body interaction, who enjoy the sensuality and magic, feeling the warm hands of an attractive masseuse running through their body. Our masseuses have been chosen not only for their physical attractiveness, but also for their sensuality and massage skills.

Only by appointment 951 274 723, 650 237 145 (302727)

CALA DE MIJAS . Looking to get out of your routine?

Excellent professional masseuse and with exclusive attention for people who want and wish to relax and live a unique experience. If you are looking for discretion and good treatment, here I am. I’m Sara and I hope you ask for your appointment as soon as possible because I am very busy. 650 237 145 (302727)

RIVIERA DEL SOL . Close your eyes and let yourself be carried away by your imagination. I am waiting for you in an atmosphere suitable for relaxation and sensuality, without noise, with candlelight and soft music. Before you start, you just have to relax, breathe slowly to free your body and mind... I’ll take care of the rest. Miriam, qualified masseuse with many years of experience. Book your appointment.

650 237 145 (302727)

CALAHONDA . I am Mery, a young, simple and natural girl who hides among her shy appearance the best kept secrets of relaxing, descontracture and stimulating massage. I massage both men and couples. 650 237 145. by appointment only

NEAR Elviria. Viky, undoubtedly I am the most sensual and, sweet latin masseuse you have ever met. Tantric sensitive massages very special, body to body with oil! I will make you feel very relaxed with a good massage and the end will be your choice. 951274723, 650237145 (302727)

CALAHONDA. I am your ideal masseuse if you want to enjoy a massage, relaxing and sensual, I will use all my charm and my secret techniques of relaxation and mutual connection. Dana – 650 237 145 (302727)

MARBELLA CENTRE - the ideal place for relaxing massage in the city centre. Available 24h and prices from €50. For reservations and information call 620 366 817. (295192)

PROFESSIONAL MALE muscled masseur. Full-body relaxing, deep tissue and therapeutic massage. In/outcalls. WhatsApp me 607 595 906 (301288)

FUENGIROLA - Johanna Brazilian Mature Masseur. Relaxing Massages. Best relax guaranteed. Tel: 617.818.615 (303203)

ASIAN MASSEUR Massage relaxing & therapeutic, to release tension and stress. Fuengirola. Call 634 103 607 (301171)

LOS BOLICHES - Carolina Pretty Masseur, Relaxing Massage, Guaranteed relax634.703.111 (303203)

BENALMADENA lovely lady, offering you a very relaxing body massage. Call for an appointment 634 209 427 (303695)

FUENGIROLA. Japanese Shiatsu & Zen Ki relaxing and therapeutic massage. Excellent service guaranteed. Home Visits. WhatsApp for appointment 693 988 340 (290155)

WWW.LAILALYNCH1.COM

Heated pool, Jacuzzi and private bar. Inland private retreat with a full massage service. 662 913 428 (FU 3004)

AMAZING relaxing massage by mature lady, In/ outcalls. Fuengirola. 657 697 397 (FU 2992)

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

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

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

FILIPINO massage centre, Marbella, where hearts of professional massage. Daily. 604 421 973 – 952 824 348 (MI 564)

FUENGIROLA Paula 30 years old beautiful, soft sensitive massages, deep body relaxation techniques 641 244 707 (FU 2908)

FILIPINA/THAI. ladies offer exclusive prostatic, deep, soft massage, pleasure to body, mind therapy relaxation, good, clean atmosphere. Marbella Elviria. 679 126 231 (MI 564)

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

BRAZILIAN slim pretty fantastic absolutely relaxing massage. Marbella. 604 428 812 (MI 564)

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

ASIAN touch combination Oriental/ European massage relief pain stress exotic professional ladies. Elviria. Marbella 633705558 (MI 564)

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

ORIENTAL lady, tantric sensory generate body to body, technique, deep, soft massage. Marbella 603 208 080 (MI 564)

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

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

THAI Benalmadena Costa. Body-body full massages. Visits. Whatsapp 689 387 448, 632 092 619 (MI 565)

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

JADE BRITISH lady offers sensual massage service for gentlemen & couples. Discrete premises. Estepona area. Call 665 896 519 (303494)

BENALMADENA Private Villa: DANIELA from Colombia 19yrs Masseur. New on the Coast. in C/ Imperio Argentina N.1 in Benalmadena. Incalls Outcalls 24hrs. Tel. 662 52 78 15 (303721)

FUENGIROLA . New Megan , mulatto, 19 years old massage and relaxation, 697 490 934. (FU 3001)

BENALMADENA: IRINA Russian Masseur, model, slim, Russian, Spanish, English. Incalls & Outcalls 24hrs. Tel. 673 88 75 47 (303721)

NEW Samanta beautiful, Colombian, 19 years old massage and relaxation 697 490 934. (FU 3001)

BENALMADENA Masseur, massage, jacuzzi, outcalls 24hrs. Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs. Tel. 673 88 75 47 (303721)

FUENGIROLA Centre. 5 masseuses, total discretion, luxury apartment, young, beautiful. Massage, relax. 697 490 934 (FU 3001)

BENALMADENA: MariaColombian Masseur - blond long hair, Incalls & Outcalls 24hrs. Tel. 673 88 75 47 (303721)

ESTEPONA Julia Masseur 35 - private apartment - 604 281 212 (303454)

BENALMADENA: Alicia Spanish professional & relaxing Masseur.. Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs. Tel. 673 88 75 47

VANESSA Benalmadena excellent massage services. Relaxing & therapeutic. Home premises. Call me 624 811 098 (303576)

BENALMADENA: Sandra Spanish Masseur and Amaliaduo massage & relaxing. Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs. Tel. 673 88 75 47 (303721)

THE Ultimate Bliss at a Very Nice Place - Tantra is Fullness to Darin Sensory Massage Lovers - Fuengirola - Call 672 854 596 (302292)

BOLICHES : Celina elegant loving kind lovely for educated serious discreet respectable gentleman good behaviour. Unique moments, deep relax. Private apartment, quite cosy atmosphere. Enjoy complete services, calm excellent treatment special attention of your needs and satisfaction, pleasant sweet sensual lady. Demanding impeccable hygiene!

Appointments: 11am/7pm 622 210 797 (FU 2993)

SLIM Latin, Thai, tantric exotic relaxing massage very sensual. Marbella. 603 398 999 (MI 566)

FUENGIROLA Lisa mature relax massage for gentlemen. 613 230 681 (303712)

MASSAGE and fun for ladies. Exotic tantric masseur. Marbella. 602 098 606. (FU 2998)

FUENGIROLA. Relaxing massage made by alternative gender masseuse. Violeta Chiropractor. 660 867 374 (FU 3002)

SAN PEDRO DE ALCANTARA - Camilla Masseur 33private apartment - 603 804 443 (303731)

BENALMADENA. FRIENDLY attractive masseuse, relieve muscle tension. From 50€. 613 106 153 (FU 3006)

COLOMBIAN . Yeraldin, I do massages and something else. I am independent 45 years old I am in Nueva Andalucía 611 245 461 (FU 3005)

MISCELLANEOUS

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

MOSQUITO Screens for windows, doors and a high-quality sliding patio door screen. All finishes available. Quick service. All areas covered. Call Julian 655 825 931 (302477)

MOSQUITO screens, sliding, pulldown, pleated, colours, call Mosquito Nick 647 072 861 www.mosquitonick.ws (295855)

€10,995. Classy Great Shape Cabrio. Mercedes, need I say more… See photos on my web page – www.robert soncars-spain,com or text me whatsapp 608 658 785 Email: therobertsonclan@ gmail.com

ROBERTSON CARS AUTOMATIC TOYOTA YRIS HYBRID2017 ONLY 23,000 KMS Yes only 23,000 kms. 5 door, reverse camera, high seating position great for old legs and bad knees, beautiful blue with black trim, easy to drive and park. Say Hi to the Hybrid at €16500. See photos on my web page –www.robertsoncars-spain. com or text me whatsapp 608 658 785 Email: therobertson clan@gmail.com

LEXUS 2.5 300 H Executive Navigation 4wd 197 CV Model Metallic Pearl, Imported, Purchased October 2020, 5090kms Hybrid and Petrol. Condition as new. Offers on 38,000€ Neg. Please Call 689 876 751 (303217)

WANTED, wanted, wanted!!

All cars, all years, all models… from exotic to classic. Spanish, English, Dutch plated. Call us on 951 977 329 or 606 647 597. (302517)

DAVID CHRISTIAN-CLARK PLAYS POPULAR SPANISH GUITAR FOR YOUR EVENT. OVER 30 YEARS PRO EXPERIENCE BACKED BY A DIPLOMA FROM GUILDHALL LONDON. SPECIALISES IN WEDDINGS. ECLECTIC PLAYLIST TAILORED TO YOUR TASTE. REASONABLE RATES BY NEGOTIATION.COVERS GIB TO NERJA.SEE YOU TUBE. ENQUIRIES davechristianclark@ gmail.com (303110)

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

for any help offered, including donations of food and blankets. Visiting times are from 13.00 to 15.00 and you can always turn up or make an appointment by calling Denise on 669 018 736. Our website is www.ace-charity.org where you can view all the dogs in our care. (93320)

ADANA THE ANIMAL SHELTER IN ESTEPONA. We always need volunteers to walk and socialise with our dogs and help with cleaning. We also need good homes for our animals that you can see on www.adana.es. Kennels open every day 10-1.30, Camino de Casares, near Parque de los Pedregales, Estepona. (5 minutes from the Poligono) For more information call 952 113 467, available from 10.00am until 2.00pm. (93319)

ANIMEX Foundation offers free will upgrading when leaving something for abandoned animals. Contact animexfoun dation@gmail.com or call 692 166 434 now for this absolutely free service (288287)

sleep - no matter how old, they are safe with us. For day to day needs and to pay for veterinary care, we much appreciate the support we receive. We desperately need items to sell on our market stall to help raise funds and are happy to come and collect. So, if you are having a clear-out, please contact us on 605 227 155. If you would like to know more about rehoming, please call 653 257 875. Visit our website www.sos-ani mals.org or please phone Sandy on 952 385 923 or 666 814 056 if you would like to make a donation or help in any way. (93317)

ACE OF SHADES - Don’t let the bugs get you! Available in enrollable, slider and pleated. Large choice of colours including wood effect. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceof shades.design (101730)

CAMPER VANS , CARAVANS, MOBILE HOMES, BOATS AND ALL PLANT, DIGGERS, DUMPERS, MOTORBIKES, CARS AND COMMERCIALS WANTED. BEST PRICE PAID, CASH TODAY, ANY REGISTRATION WITH OR WITHOUT PAPERS. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 (290189)

CARS, VANS, ANY RESGISTRATION, INSTANT CASH, FINANCE / EMBARGO UK OR SPANISH 685 524 921 (290189)

CARS, VANS UK OR SPANISH BOUGHT FOR CASH. FREE COLLECTION IN SPAIN / UK. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 OR 952 669 701 (290189)

FOR SALE

ROBERTSON CARS ...would like to thank all of my past, present & future clients for their continued support over the last 35 years here in Spain. Stay safe and outdrive everyone. If contacting Samantha in the afternoons, please only Whatsappon 608 658 785 or Email therobertson clan@gmail.com as I am driving mostly & unable to take your calls.

ROBERTSON CARS SALE AUTOMATIC / CABRIO MERCEDES SLK ONLY

57,000kms 2006 Stunning Silver only used as holiday car with 57,000KMS (Approx 35,000miles) 2

Seater Convertible have fun in the sun. Comes with New ITV until 2024 and history, Electric Roof folds into boot. Selling Under Book Price only

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

CAR SERVICES

MOBILE MECHANIC will come to your home or work. Servicing, repairs, ITVs & diagnostics. Call Mick on 617 553 072 (303499)

ENGLISH bodyshop, fully equipped, Mijas Costa. No Job Too Small. 952 667 074

IMPORT / TRANSFER

CARS TRANSFERRED, history checks, Imports and Embargo problems. Change of use and lost papers. Change your car to Spanish plates, simple efficient service. Cars bought and sold. Please call 678808837 or email carsin spain@live.co.uk

WANTED

WANTED CARS AND VANS, FREE COLLECTION, SAME DAY 685 524 921 (290189)

CARS, VANS BOUGH WITH / WITHOUT PAPERS. CASH WAITING 678 808 837 (303115)

ALL CARS / Commercials wanted, runners or non-runners. Cash. Buyer collects. Transfer included. 605 109 796 (302091)

CARS , Vans, Bikes wanted. Any Reg, Anything Considered Call or Whatsapp 687 049 592

MALE/Female Viagra, cialis, kamagra jelly all areas. Mixed trial packs available. Delivery or mail order available 604 385 476. viagra4you19@ gmail.com

UK & IRISH Passport renewals including photos. Complete Service. Cath’s Cards. 952 885 759. www.cath scards.es (290153)

COCKROACHES , ANTS, insects, fleas, mice, rats, wasps, termite specialists. Fumigations, bars, restaurants, houses, etc. Sanitary department officially registered certificates. Serving the coast since 1985. Only legal English owned pest control company on the coast. If you want the best then phone N.P.S. Paul 676 700 370 (1296213)

KENNELS

CAT & DOG World Kennels and Cattery. 952 112 978 / 630 197 435. www.catand dogworld.com (303570)

ACE CHARITY ‘El Refugio’ in La Cala de Mijas is a registered charity. We have on average 275 dogs in our care and we receive no help from the town hall or the Andalucian government. We desperately need foster homes and adoptants for our many dogs, especially the small ones and puppies who do not do well in a big shelter. We are grateful

ARCH - The Andalucian Rescue Centre for Horses, registered charity 8448, the Centre is open to visitors every Sunday from 9am until 2pm. Working closely with the Spanish authorities, we rescue, rehabilitate and rehome abused and abandoned horses and donkeys. Come and meet our current rescues, learn about our work and how you may be able to help. Run solely by a small team of dedicated volunteers, the Centre is located between Alhaurin el Grande and Coin in Comm. de Viña Borrego behind Venta Miralmonte. For more information and directions see our website www.horserescue spain.org, our Facebook page Centro Andalusi de Rescate de Caballos or tel. 610 845 491 or 656 935 613 (93322)

SEPE the horse and donkey charity is open to the public at weekends from 10.00 to 5.00. Volunteers are much needed in all departments and are welcome at any time. For our riding for the disabled classes, we are also in need of extra helpers. We are nationally registered by the Spanish Ministry of the Interior (164640) but only with your support can we give the equine a voice. If you can just commit to 2 or 3 euros a month it will really help make a difference. You can find us at Lauro Golf Equestrian Centre, Alqueria, Alhaurin de la Torre. Tel. 608 258 950 info@sepeonline.net www.sepeonline.net (93321)

SOS ANIMAL REFUGE we have dogs, young and old looking for homes. Some of our dogs have been with us for some time and would love to find a cosy spot to curl up in and a knee on which to rest their heads. If you have room in your heart and home we would love to hear from you. We do not put our dogs to

PLUMBING POOLS

PLUMBING. Leak detection & blocked drains. Tel 952 568 414 / 661 910 772 / drain spain.com (294321)

PROPERTY

PROPERTY WANTED

WWW.INTERMARBELLA.COM

Costa del Sol Property Sales & Long term rentals wanted. All areas / All budgets / All types. Spain +34 951 708 422. UK +44 208 144 5008. Email info@intermarbella.com (303052)

PROPERTY FOR SALE

WWW.INMOANDALUZ.COM.

Bargain inland properties for all budgets, fincas, village homes, apartments and villas. Legal building plots. 952 491 609 / 685 514 835 (295954)

WWW INTERMARBELLA COM

Costa del Sol Property for sale. All a re a s / all budg ets / al l t y p es S p a in +34 951 70 8 422. UK +44 208 144 500 8 Email info@intermarbella.com (303052)

SELLING UP?? Why not give us a c all and le t us gi v e y o u an hon est and re ali st i c valu ation of your property List with us and let us ta k e the stres s ou t o f se lling y ou r hom e N o sale no fee!! English agent on the ba ll w i th c li ents w a i t i ng . P l e a se c all 685 524 921 (290189)

FU E NG I RO L A / Mija s – U r b

Cielo Mijas, Ctra Mijas km14, 2 bedroom, ope n sea v i e w , 92 s qm, 3 k m to b eac h, 25 k m to a i rport 159,000€. Pr i v at e Sa l e in f o@c i e l o mij as co m (303710)

PROP MAINTENANCE

STARLIGHT Propert y Cle a ning & M a in t en a nc e All A reas. R es i de n t i a l & Ho l id a y L ets. P ers i a n a repa i rs , Decorating, Electrial & Plumbin g repa i rs. 682 63645 1 ww w star ligh t -s p a in. co m (302566)

PROPERTY TO LET

LONG TERM RENTAL S

AVAILABLE and also wanted . Super prices . Apar tments, townhouses, villas, fincas, shops, offices, bars, restaurants. C oast & i nland Tlf 679 111 52 2 (303511)

WWW INTERMARBELLA COM

Costa del Sol Proper t y Lon g Term R en t als All areas / Al l budgets / All types. Spain +34 951 708 422 UK +44 208 14 4 5008. E mail in f o@ in ter m a r bella.com (303052)

REMOVALS & STORAGE

15 CUBIC metre van r et u r n i ng t o t h e U K 6t h Ju l y 2023. Space available each way . Tel . 639 928 09 0 (303227)

SITUATIONS VACANT

MAN AND VAN

MAN & VA N , 20€ ph. R em o v a l s , R ubbi s h & Ho u s e Clearances. Paul 634 112 677

2 MEN , Van €30 p hour House Clearances & Sto rage. 651 081 610 (302401) moveit-storeit . co m Te l David 696 810 618 (294207)

STORAGE , Storage, Storage

Man & V an Serv i ces Call / Wha ts app 690 155 34 0 (302418)

NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL

PROFESSIONAL LOCAL REMO VA LS A T A FFORD A BL E RATES . 1/2 DAY FRO M

€90 FULL DAY FRO M

€175. WE AL S O PROV ID E A FORTNIGHTLY DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE TO U K AND EUROPE (INCL SCOTLAND) WORLDWID E SHIPPI N G TO US A, A U STRALIA , ETC AND FUL L

STORAGE FACILITIES TEL (0034) 952 578 507 O R (0034) 637 892 278 / EMAIL garymoveit @ yahoo.co.uk (303055)

JDS EURO TR AN SPORT & R E MOVA LS - Re g ular tri p s throughout Europe. Call or WhatsApp Julian 004 4 7884 908 929. S ee Fa c ebook Page for recomme ndations (301271)

moveit-storeit . co m Te l

David 696 810 618 (294207)

STORAGE

moveit-storeit co m Te l

David 696 810 618 (294207)

ROLLER SHUTTERS

ACE OF SHADES - PE RSI ANA ( se cu rity s hu tter ) ele c tri c a nd ma nu al, var iou s colou rs ava il a ble i ncluding wood effec t, w e also offe r a r epai r se r vice

Make your home more s ecure! Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / in f o@a c eo f shades.design (101730)

RO LLE R shutter re p airs, 7 d ays a week, con versi o n from manual to motorised, new installations. All areas covered Coast and inland 655 825 931 (302477)

SITUATIONS VACANT

W E are looking for receptionis t f or adul t massage house W e h a v e i n Fueng i ro l a an d E l v i r i a If in tereste d pl eas e co n tact +34 611 30 41 02 (303265)

DOG SHELTER in Mija s Cos t a , r equi r es pa rt - t im e Handyman/Cleaner. Apply by phone to 669 018 736

SOLAR

SOLAR Hot Water heating: FREE HOT WATER 2 8 years installation histor y in Sp ain. E nviro c are Al l areas covered Qualit y guaranteed. 952 663 141/ 670 409 759 i nfo@ e n vir o carespain . co m www . env i rocarespain.com (303385)

SOFT FURNISHINGS

C URTAINS, blind s , c u s hi o n s and much more. Free est ima tes and hom e v i s i ts Te l 657 369 343 or rosa n n acarme ll a8@ g ma il. co m (301301)

SWIMMING POOLS

POOL MAINTENANC E , & R e pai rs , in c luding h e a ters & regrouts. Friendly & reliabl e service. Malaga to Estepona & inl a nd areas 678 791 495 / 951 536 389 www.sparklenrip ple.net (303027)

SWIMMI N G Poo l H eati n g Pumps , Pool Covers , Rollers , Filtratio n S ystems. 28 years insta llation history in Spain Envirocare . All area s cove r ed Quali t y Gua r a nteed . 952 663 141 / 670409759 i nfo@ e n vir o ca r espain co m www e n virocarespain.com (303385)

WESTARPOOL S P oo l co nstr u ct i o n , re n o vat i o n , repa i r s a nd h eat ing. 619 246 372 / ww w .westarpools.co m (302695)

TRANSLATORS

OFF ICI A L T RAN SL A TI ON S All Languages. 952 789 20 4 Mobil e 654 613 094 sa np e d r o t r an s la t ion s@ gmail. c o m (302734)

TV / SATELLITE

REPAIRS to TV’s , LCD, LED, -Vid e os, Hi- F i, & Mi cr o wave s , Mag B o x es , UK c hann e l s i nsta ll e d. 35 y ears ex p er i e n ce Free E st ima tes , Can Coll ect J ohn 952 491 723 or 600 70 6 201. (303500)

UPHOLSTERY

ADVANCE D Cl e aning Se rvices Professional carpet and uphols ter y c l e aning, 28 ye a r s ex p er i e n ce , wet/ d ry c l ea n Honest, reliable 678 808 837 / 952 669 701 a cser v s @ou t look.com (290189)

UPHOLSTER Y in c ludin g l e a t h er c l e an e d al s o c a r p ets 685 524 921 (290189)

CARPETS AND SOFA S cleaned. Reliable, fast service Fam il y r un Cl ea n so l 952 93 0 861 / 607 610 578. 10 a m10pm 7 d a ys, all areas Di sco un t C o d e : E W N 1 CL E A N (206437)

WATER HEATERS

ELECTRIC & Gas Wate r Heaters Quality Install ati on s. 28 years i n stall ation history in Spain EnviroCare. All Areas Covered. 952 663 141/670 40 9 759 info@envirocar e spain . co m www . envir o carespain.com (303385)

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

INSURANCE

SITUATIONS VACANT

Abarth 595 is a characterful gem!

ROAD TEST

by Mark Slack

ICONIC is a very overused word but particularly in regards to cars. However, there are a few cars that can genuinely claim to be iconic and the Fiat 500 is certainly one of them. In its modern incarnation, like BMW’s MINI, it is heritage reborn and continues to be a huge success for Fiat. It is hard to believe it has been around since 2008 and in Abarth form is a particularly fun drive. It’s not especially fast, but really emphasises that cars don’t need to be fast to be fun.

Priced from €27,251/ £23,225 the Abarth 595 line­up is all powered by a 1.4 ­ litre turbocharged petrol engine driving the front wheels through either a manual or CVT automatic gearbox. There’s a firm but still comfortable ride with the benefit of confident

cornering across more twisting roads. The petrol powerplant offers two power outputs, 165 hp or 180 hp, and compromis es of the 595, 695 and 500e all­electric, with both saloon and cabrio versions in the line ­ up. The Abarth 500e will take you 164 miles on a single charge, so not long­distance ma terial, but a strik ing commuter car.

The lead ­ in 595

Facts at a Glance

• Model: Abarth 595

• Price: €27,251/£23,225

• Engine: 1.4 T-Jet turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol developing 165 hp

• Gears: 5-speed manual

• Performance: 0-100 kph (62 mph) Petrol 7.3 secs

• Maximum Speed: Petrol 217 kph (135 mph)

• Economy: Petrol 5.8 l/100km (40 mpg) WLTP

• Emissions: 158 g/km WLTP Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets.

ABARTH 595: This is one I was very sorry to hand back.

offers standard fare such as dual ­ drive electric power steering with a sports function and fabric sports seats. Also present is air conditioning, Bluetooth, Car Play, Android Auto, front seat height adjustment, auto lights and wipers, rear parking sensors and powered and heated door mirrors and 16 ­ inch alloy wheels.

Where the 595 shows its age is in terms of practicality with a small boot and only three doors. Huge fun on cross country roads and

easy round town, things are not so settled on major A roads or motorways. It tends to be a bit noisy with a drone from tyre noise. Although it has been recently tweaked these are tweaks rather than a major overhaul to its design. Therefore, it may be beaten by competitors in terms of practicality and equipment, but the Abarth has a character lacking in more mainstream rivals Apart from looking the part the Abarth sounds gorgeous at tickover, not in a broken exhaust kind of way but there’s a lovely burble and once on the road and pushing the revs the sounds continue to impress.

It has such character compared to many modern cars and also broad appeal. My young supermarket delivery chap went into verbal overdrive when he saw it. This was one I was VERY sorry to hand back.

Gaming and driving Prices drop

IN-CAR GAMING: Games that are easy to pick up and play and intuitive to control.

THE BMW Group is partnering with the gaming platform AirConsole to bring a unique kind of in­car gaming to the road for the first time in the new BMW 5 Series.

It allows the driver and passengers to play so­called casual games while the vehicle is stationary as a way of passing time while waiting for the vehicle to charge, for example.

For the in­car gaming experience, the players simply need their smartphone, which acts as a controller, and the BMW Curved Display. After starting the AirConsole app in the vehicle, the connection be­

tween the smartphone and the vehicle is intuitively established by scanning a QR code on the Curved Display. Then players can get straight down to playing.

The AirConsole app supports multiple players simultaneously. The rear passengers can also participate in the in­car gaming fun during stops. It is possible to play alone or with all vehicle occupants together or in competition mode.

With AirConsole, players can play socalled casual games. These are games that are easy to pick up and play and intuitive to control.

Pump prices are now much lower than last summer.

RAC Fuel Watch data shows diesel prices in the UK fell from 158.91p to 146.99p cutting the cost of a full 55­litre family car fillup by £6.50 while petrol reduced by 3p from 146.35p to 143.26p ­ a saving of £1.70 a tank compared to the start of the month.

May was the seventh consecutive month in which pump prices fell. This means diesel is now

52p lower (£28.60 a tank) than the all ­ time high of 199p last summer and unleaded is 48p lower (£26.40 a tank) than its record of 191.5p.

While the diesel drop may be record ­ breaking, the RAC argues that the reduction is both long overdue and smaller than it should be, given the wholesale price of diesel has been lower than petrol for 10 whole weeks.

After repeatedly calling for lower prices for months, the motoring organisation says it seems ironic that the latest price cuts have finally come in the two weeks following the Competition and Markets Authority’s announcement that it would be interviewing supermarket bosses about their fuel margins increasing significantly compared to four years ago.

DIESEL:

Image: StockLeb / Shutterstock.com

Image: BMW

EV price decline

Transport technology

PERSONALISED navigation apps for disabled passengers and robots for freight at ports are among 67 transport technology projects being developed and tested through new UK government funding.

UK used Electric Vehicle (EV) prices continue to decline in the wake of supply surge, but growing affordability fuels strong demand.

According to the latest data from the Auto Trader Retail Price Index, the average price of a used car increased 2.8 per cent last month to £17,815, making May the 38th consecutive month of year ­ on ­ year (YoY) retail price growth.

Although it’s the largest YoY increase in six months, potential retail growth remains constrained by used EV prices, which fell 18.6 per cent in May, as the huge surge of stock entering the market (up 201 per cent YoY in May) continues to outpace very robust levels of consumer demand (up 44 per cent YoY). Market dynamics of high demand and low sup­

ply in the used EV sector last year, which caused prices to rise, meaning that current price drops largely represent a recalibration. Despite marking the highest rate of YoY retail price contraction recorded by the Index, there are signs of used EV values beginning to stabilise, with the rate of decline only marginally greater than the ­18.1 per cent drop seen in April.

Technology Minister, Jesse Norman, announced that the 67 innovative projects developing transport technology, are receiving a share of £1.96 million in funding as part of the government’s Transport Research and Innovation Grant (TRIG) Programme.

A record number of this year’s winning projects are based outside London, with almost four in five based outside the capital.

Transport and Decarbonisation Minister Jesse Norman said: “From making travelling easier for visually impaired passengers to improving rural connectivity, these

winning projects have the potential to transform the future of transport.

“The government wants the UK to be a world leader in the future of transport and, through the TRIG programme, the Department for Transport is supporting innovators and businesses to decarbonise and improve transport while growing the econo ­

UK.”

USED EVs: Values are beginning to stabilise.

Image: Basilico Studio Stock / Shutterstock.com

my and supporting jobs across the

24.6 million cars registered in Spain in 2022.

NAVIGATION APPS: Being developed and tested.

Image: TippaPatt / Shutterstock.com

Cycling star dies on Tour

DURING the Tour de Suisse (Tour of Switzerland) on Friday June 16, one of the riders taking part tragically lost his life after he plunged down a ravine.

Twenty­six­year­old Swiss pro cyclist Gino Mäder died after the brutal fall he suffered a day earlier during the fifth stage of the Tour.

The crash happened on Thursday with his team, Bahrain Victorius posting a message on Facebook: ‘Bahrain Victorious Swiss rider Gino Mäder was involved in a crash on the descent towards La Punt, finish line of stage 5 at Tour de Suisse.

‘The rider went off the road and fell into a ravine, where he was promptly assisted by the race doctor. Mäder was found unresponsive, resuscitated at the scene and then transported by helicopter to Chur Hospital. Our thoughts and prayers are with Gino.’

Following the devastating news of his death, the team paid their heartfelt tribute to him: ‘It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we have to announce the passing of Gino Mäder.

‘Despite the best efforts of the phenomenal staff at Chur Hospital, Gino couldn’t make it through this, his final

and biggest challenge, and at 11.30am we said goodbye to one of the shining lights of our team.

‘Gino was an extraordinary athlete, an example of determination, a valued member of our team and the whole cycling community. His talent, dedication, and passion for the sport has inspired us all.

‘Gino’s family has requested privacy as they mourn their loss, and we kindly

Rodgers back at Celtic

BRENDAN RODGERS has reportedly agreed terms that will see him return as the manager of Scottish football giants Glasgow Celtic.

According to a tweet on Sunday, June 18, from the respected Scottish sports journalist Anthony Joseph, the recently sacked Leicester City boss has agreed to a longterm deal.

He wrote: ‘UPDATE: Brendan Rodgers has agreed terms on a long­term deal to return to Celtic as manager. It’s understood paperwork is being finalised and an announcement is expected this week.’

Celtic, the 50­year­old northern Irishman enjoyed a very successful tenure after arriving in 2106, before his shock exit in 2019. It remains to be seen if the faithful are prepared to forgive him for that action.

He guided the club to seven trophies in two and a half years, including two straight Trebles, one of which was a memorable campaign in which they remained undefeated.

ask that their wishes be respected. The team and family express our gratitude for the overwhelming support we have received from the whole cycling world.

‘Gino, thank you for the light, the joy, and the laughs you brought us all, we will miss you as a rider and as a person.

‘Today and every day, we ride for you, Gino.’

Rodgers left the Foxes on April 2, with the club languishing in the Premier League’s relegation zone. Despite replacing him with Dean Smith until the end of the season, Leicester ultimately dropped down into the Championship.

After Ange Postecoglou was tempted by an offer to take over at Tottenham, the Parkhead bosses embarked on a search to find his successor.

In his previous spell with

The Hoops have qualified for the Champions League as a result of winning the Scottish Premier League. Should his deal go ahead, the current UEFA coefficient rankings mean that Celtic automatically enter the group stage of the tournament.

Of course, the main predicament remains to be whether he can guide them into the knockout stages. A third­place finish in the group still guarantees a Europa League spot which could give him a better chance of aiming at European glory in his first season back in Glasgow.

Spain wins Nations League Canadian GP victory

MAX VERSTAPPEN drove his Red Bull to a relatively easy victory in the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal on Sunday, June 18.

The reigning world champion led from start to finish at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve to increase his lead in the driver’s championship to a stunning 69 points.

In the process, the Dutchman racked up his 100th win for Red Bull Racing in his very short career in Formula One, with his sixth win from eight races this season.

He also equalled the total of 41 wins achieved by the late Ayrton Senna. At 25, Verstappen is nine years younger than the Brazilian legend who died tragically in 1994 after a crash at the San Marino Grand Prix.

Fernando Alonso was in incredible form in the Aston Martin to finish in second place. One can only imagine how unbeatable the Spaniard would be if he was to sit behind the wheel of the Red Bull.

By the time he crossed the finishing line, he was 9.5 seconds adrift of the winner. He managed to fight off a late challenge from Lewis Hamilton in the Mercedes, with whom he had endured a game of cat and mouse throughout the race.

Going into Turn 1, Hamilton got the jump on Alonso who had started on the front row of the grid alongside Verstappen. It took him until the final chicane on Lap 23 to regain second.

The final podium featured three of the biggest names in F1 at this moment. Charles LeClerc managed to bring the Ferrari home in fourth followed by his teammate, Carlos Sainz.

Sergio Perez simply lacked the pace to get any higher than a disappointing sixth in the other Red Bull. Alex Albon continued his spectacular form to allow the British­born Thai driver to cross the line in seventh in the Williams.

Alpine’s Esteban Ocon finished a respectable eighth, ahead of Lance Stroll in the second Aston Martin. Valtteri Bottas proved that there is still a fight in him by rounding out the Top 10 in the Alfa Romeo.

SPAIN are the new holders of the UEFA Nations League trophy after overcoming Croatia on penalties in Rotterdam on Sunday, June 18.

A 0­0 scoreline after open play saw the two teams head into a penalty shootout which the Spaniards eventually won 5­4. This was Spain’s first trophy since 2012 when they won the Euros.

Croatia came into the match in the famous De Kuip Stadium looking to pick up their first piece of silverware in an international tournament but Unai Simon’s save from Bruno Petkovic’s spot kick ended that hope, after previously saving Lovro Majer’s kick with an outstretched leg.

On that occasion, Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte delayed the win when his shot hit the crossbar. Real Madrid’s Dani Carvajal eventually cheekily chipped the decisive 12th penalty into the Croatian net to seal victory for Spain.

In the process, Spain emulated France in winning the treble of the World Cup, the European Championship and the Nations League. The French achieved this historic feat after beating Spain in the previous final.

Luis de la Fuente has the honour of being the first Spanish coach to pick up international silverware in 11 years although he will probably admit that it did

not all go according to plan this evening.

Real Madrid playmaker Luka Modric did all that he could to inspire his team in the middle of the park. The 37­yearold was playing in his 166th match for the Balkan side.

In a remarkable season, two of the Spanish side, Aymeric Laporte and Rodri, have now picked up a total of four major medals each.

Both are part of the incredible all­conquering Manchester City side that won the historic treble of the Champions League, FA Cup, and Premier League.

Rodri also became the first player to be named Man of the Match in the UEFA Champions League Final and to also win the UEFA Nations League Finals Best Player award.

Another record fell to Jesús Navas who entered the match as the oldest player in Spain’s history. He is now the first player to ever win the FIFA World Cup, the UEFA European Championship and the UEFA Nations League.

In the third­place playoff that took place earlier in the day, Italy beat the Netherlands 3­2.

GINO MÄDER: The Swiss pro cyclist tragically lost his life.

VICTORIOUS: This was Spain’s first trophy since they won the Euros in 2012.

Record-breaking Ronaldo

CRISTIANO RONALDO, the legendary Portuguese footballer, marked his 200th international appearance with a crucial goal in Portugal’s triumph against Iceland. The match, a European Championship qualifier, saw Ronaldo secure victory for his team in the 90th minute.

This remarkable milestone was honoured by Guinness, they presented Ronaldo with a certificate. Additionally, the Portuguese Football Federation presented him with a commemorative t­shirt featuring a unique number to acknowledge his historic achievement.

Ronaldo’s 200 caps surpass any previous records, highlighting his unparalleled dedication to representing his nation. The atmosphere was electric as fans celebrated the milestone, but the game itself was lacklustre, with the winning goal arriving in the final moments.

Unsurprisingly, it was Ronaldo who left his mark on the match, securing the victory for Portugal. With a total of

123 goals for the national team, Ronaldo’s remarkable performance places Portugal at the top of their Euro qualifying group, having achieved a flawless record of victories in the first four out of 10 scheduled matches.

The suspenseful nature of Ronaldo’s goal was intensified by a three­minute delay caused by the video assistant referee, who scrutinised a potential offside po­

Rubik’s cube world record

MAX PARK, 21, of the USA broke the Rubik’s Cube world record in an incredible 3.13 seconds on June 11. The feat was achieved on a 3x3x3 cube in a matter of 3.13 seconds, beating Yusheng Du’s time of 3.47 seconds.

Max is a star in the ‘cubing’ world and one of the subjects of a Netflix documentary called Speedcubers. Max who was diagnosed with autism at the age of two, learned his skills from his mother who saw his new interest as a way to overcome his impaired motor skills.

Record (3.13) breaking 4.5 year­old record of (3.47).”

In the video, you can see the way in which Max prepares for his record before he sets his world­beating time. He warms up on a cube he has with him. Then the cube he has to solve is revealed to him and he is given time to pick it up and observe the configuration.

He then places it in front of him on the table which is equipped with sensors. As he picks it up again the clock starts and when he places it down solved the clock stops.

sition by Iceland’s centreback, Gonçalo Inacio. However, the goal was eventually given. Reflecting on the match, Ronaldo stated, “You can’t ask for more. Everything had a special flavour, from the tribute for my 200th game to the surprises from both the Federation and Guinness. It wasn’t a good game, but you can never dictate how you want to play.”

This is something Max did with aplomb and quickly progressed to speedcubing and then onto competitions, where he won his second­ever competition.

Now Max has taken a huge chunk out of the former 3x3x3 record in the Pride competition in Long Beach, California. The 3x3x3 is the standard cube, with three squares per side but Max also competes on cubes with more squares per side.

He is world number 1 in most of the categories he competes in from the 3x3x3 right up the 7x7x7 cube, only missing falling into second place in two categories, where his average times are lower than a rival.

Max Park posted a video of his achievement on his Twitter page saying: “Rubik’s Cube 3x3 World

Max seems to know immediately what he has achieved and stands and cheers in wild celebration. It is an amazing feat that from someone with once highly impaired motor skills, comes this incredible dexterity.

His parents hail Max’s cubing as life­changing for him and hope it can be used to boost acceptance of others on the autistic spectrum. In a statement quoted in USA Today, Max’s father Schwan Park said:

“As parents of an autistic child, we’ve seen firsthand how life­changing cubing has been toward Max’s personal growth. We hope this encourages further acceptance, understanding and appreciation for talents within the autistic community.”

Max Park sums up his attitude and incredible focus in his motto: “Don’t think, just solve.”

Kante signs for Al-Ittihad Resilient Alcaraz

CHELSEA’S French midfield star N’Golo Kante has signed for Al­Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League.

The club’s chairman Anmar Alhailae confirmed the player’s move from Stamford Bridge in a tweet, writing: ‘Work is progressing at all times and directions, and no matter how challenging the team is, so that the team will be on time for the next season’.

He continued: ‘Not only for the sake of the name of our club but also to represent Saudi football in hosting the World Cup in our dear Kingdom, the Asian Championship and local championships. Welcome to our new tiger

Kante. #WelcomeBox2 Box’.

With his current contract expiring at the end of June, a move to the Middle East had been on the cards for the last week with negotiations known to be taking place.

He arrived at the King Power Stadium on August 3, 2015, from Ligue 1 side Caen for a fee in the region of £5.6 million (approx €8 million). The midfield dynamo was an integral part of the Leicester City team that surprised football fans by winning the Premier League in 2016.

In the same year, he made his international debut for France. Another

medal came his way as the team finished as runnersup in the 2016 European Championships. Two years later, he played a key role in his country landing the 2018 World Cup.

Kante made the £32 million switch to Chelsea in 2017, immediately collecting another league winners medal. During his time in North London, Kante has picked up an array of impressive silverware, including the UEFA Champions League.

Since Mauricio Pochettino replaced Frank Lampard as boss of the Blues, he has tasked himself with cutting the huge squad that he inherited.

Several big names have already departed, in order to facilitate a new ­ look Chelsea that the Argentine wants to build. A new name was added to that jigsaw on Tuesday June 20 when the club announced the capture of French star Christopher Nkunku from Bundesliga side RB Leipzig.

IN his debut at the Queen’s grass ­ court tournament, the number two tennis player, Carlos Alcaraz from Murcia, displayed remarkable determination as he overcame a tough challenge from Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech. After a gruelling match lasting two hours and 33 minutes, Alcaraz emerged victorious with a scoreline of 4­6, 7­5, 7­6(3). His next opponent will be Jiri Lehecka, who defeated Alejandro Davidovich earlier.

Alcaraz found himself in a tricky situation, as another French player, Arthur Fils, was initially scheduled to compete against him. How ever, he managed to stay fo cused and successfully navi gated through the tournament’s uncertainties. With limited experience on grass and only six appearances in such events, Alcaraz acknowledged the growing challenges he faces. Yet, he remains committed to gaining valuable experience and

preparing for Wimbledon, which begins on Monday July 3.

The transition from clay to grass courts has presented a unique set of challenges for the young Spaniard. Grass­court tennis demands a different set of skills, and Alcaraz initially struggled to adapt. However, he gradually regained his composure and adjusted his tactics.

Despite facing an opponent who excelled on grass, Alcaraz managed to turn the tide in his favour. Rinderknech’s aggressive approach and proficiency at the net posed challenges, but Alcaraz countered with resilience and determination. In a closely contested battle, Alcaraz fought back, saving break points and ultimately equalising the sets.

Alcaraz’s triumph in his Queen’s court debut highlights his courage and determination. He now has an opportunity to narrow the gap between his ranking and that of the current world number one, Novak Djokovic.

Alcaraz triumphs in Queen’s grass-court debut. Photo credit: Cinch Championships Facebook page

Ronaldo’s legend continues, 200 caps and counting.

The 3x3x3 Rubik’s cube.

Photo credit: Selecao Portugal’s official Twitter account