Costa Calida 29 June – 5 July 2023 Issue 1982

Issue No. 14 (1982) 28 June - 5 July 2023

AIDEMARCHA RUN

Catherine McGeer

THE Aidemarcha, an annual charitable race, is set to take place on Saturday, July 1. The event aims to benefit Aidemar, a charity organisation. Notable attendees included Mayor Jose Miguel Luengo, Aidemar President Francisco Garcia, and Pruden Guerrero, the President of the Athletic Federation of Murcia attended the presentation.

The race will begin at Almansa Park at 9pm and the finish line will be at the Barnuevo Esplanade in Santiago de la Ribera. Participants can choose between running and walking, and there will also be a Mini Aidemarcha. To entertain young attendees, special activities will begin at the starting point at 6.30pm, the mini Aidemarcha is scheduled for 8pm, followed by the main race at 9pm, accommo­

dating both runners (5 km) and walkers (4 km).

This year’s Aidemarcha will feature entertainment along the route, as well as at the finish line, in addition to the customary refreshment stations.

Over 3,000 people, including participants, volunteers, and entertainers, will take part in

Sugar surge

MURCIA’S confectionery industry is experiencing an extraordinary surge in exports, catapulting its global presence to new heights. Last year, the region set a remarkable record with a staggering €321.3 million invoiced from confectionery sales abroad.

However, the sweet success story continues to unfold, as the first quarter of this year witnessed the export of 32,000 tonnes, including sweets, desserts, buns, and biscuits.

Astoundingly, this translated into an impressive revenue of €98 million, marking an im­

pressive 49.79 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2022. These remarkable figures, unveiled by the Institute for Foreign Trade (Icex), not only represent the highest quarterly revenue ever achieved by the sector, but also reflect a remarkable doubling of sales pace since the pre­pandemic era.

The boom in sales is due to a strong increase in demand from the main buyer, the US, up 37 per cent, and Canada, up 80 per cent. North America imports almost a third of the sweets exported from Murcia.

the event.

Registrations are open on the official race website, www.aidemarcha.com , where participants can find further details. There will be temporary traffic closures on Avenue Aviación Española and Mar Menor, spanning from San Javier to Santiago de

la Ribera.

Mayor Jose Miguel Luengo highlighted the significance of Aidemarcha, describing it as an eagerly awaited event beloved by the residents of San Javier. Together, they extended an invitation to all to participate and enjoy this charity night run.

FREE • GRATIS

Drone success

THE Cartagena Local Police successfully utilised a drone to crack down on the illegal possession and distribution of fireworks and gunpowder during the night of San Juan. The dedicated firefighters from the Cartagena City Council responded to a total of 66 incidents over an intense 11­hour period.

The councillor for Public Safety, expressed satisfaction with the relatively calm

night, considering it a rarity according to the city council’s security personnel. Llorca further disclosed that the police drone played a pivotal role in identifying an unauthorised firework distribution network, resulting in the seizure of a significant amount of prohibited pyrotechnic material.

The exact weight of the confiscated gunpowder remains undisclosed.

Photo credit: San Javier Town Hall

Photo credit: Pixabay/TonyPrats

ANNUAL EVENT: Running for a worthy cause.

CONFECTIONERY: Sweet success for Murcia.

Photo credit: Pexels/James Cheney

Cartagena police drone ensured safety on San Juan night.

Turtley unsuccessful

LOGGERHEAD turtles made four nesting attempts on the beaches of Vieja Sirena, Entremares, and Amoladeras in La Manga on Sunday, June 25. Although traces left by the turtles were detected, no eggs were found.

These attempts mark the first nesting efforts by loggerhead turtles in the Region of Murcia this summer. The affected areas were monitored by beach cleaning staff from the city council of Cartagena until environmental agents arrived. Veterinary experts from the Wildlife Recovery Centre of El Valle examined the potential nests but found no eggs. Among the turtles spotted was ‘Merche’, previously

Port proposal

AFTER five months at sea the Navy ship

‘La Curra’ returned to Cartagena Port on Tuesday, June 6. Family and friends waited on the dock to welcome their loved ones home. In the crowd stood a young lady waiting eagerly for the return of her boyfriend, she was in for quite a surprise.

The crew surprised everyone when, instead of rushing to their families they broke formation to create an aisle. One of the crew members walked up through the aisle his colleagues created to his girlfriend. Once he reached her he got down

on one knee, produced a beautiful engagement ring, and proposed to his girlfriend. And just like a scene from a movie, she said yes to a round of applause, cheers of ‘long live the bride and groom’, and explosions of confetti.

The bride­to­be said she was embarrassed but very happy going on to say “I didn’t expect it at all!” The groom said his colleagues gave him the idea as they knew he had been wanting to propose for a long time. He admitted that he was extremely nervous and said “I was trembling in training.”

THE town council of San Pedro del Pinatar, in collaboration with over 100local businesses, is bringing back the highly anticipated Time Trial Shopping campaign to encourage everyone to shop locally.

The mayor of San Pedro del Pinatar, Ángela Gaona, along with the Trade councillor, Javier Castejón, unveiled the latest Shopping Against the Clock event, set to take place from June 16 to August 13.

Throughout the sum ­

marked by researchers from the Polytechnic University of Valencia and the University of Valencia. ‘Merche’ had previously attempted to nest in Cala Capitan and Los Locos beach, but was prevented by human interference.

The Regional Ministry of the Environment, Mar Menor, Universities, and Research emphasises the importance of following guidelines during sea turtle nesting season. These include maintaining a safe distance of at least 20 metres from turtles on the beach, reporting turtle sightings to 112, and refraining from touching turtle tracks and eggs, which may require protection until they hatch.

Shopping sprint

mer, customers will be provided with cards at participating shops. To qualify for entry into the draw, shoppers must have their cards stamped by at least four different establishments for purchases amounting to a minimum of €10 each.

Once shoppers have completed their cards, they should fill in their details and submit them at

any of the participating stores or deposit them in the ballot box located on the ground floor of the town hall.

The draw will be held on August 21, and the winner will take part in their shopping spree against the clock on August 22, limited to a maximum spending of €200 per business.

Don’t miss your chance to win big this summer!

Catherine McGeer

SHE SAID YES: Surprise proposal in Cartagena.

Photo credit: Pixabay: Fredy_Martinez_Photograph

NIBS EXTRA

Dolphin trips

ARE you a dolphin enthusiast? Are you aware that dolphins swim along the coast of Mazarron? Delfines de Mazarrón Ecoturismo offers day trips that allow you to embark on a boat journey with them to witness these magnificent creatures firsthand.

Swansea City

SWANSEA CITY AFC has recently made its way to Pinatar Arena in San Pedro del Pinatar for a week­long training camp, from June 25 until July 1. The team is set to utilise the state­of­theart facilities and picturesque surroundings of the football training centre to prepare for their upcoming season.

Sailor’s Market

THE Sailor’s Market in Los Alcázares runs from July 1 until September and takes place in various locations throughout the town. It is an evening market that starts at 7pm, offering handmade crafts to delicious street food. For specific locations and further details check out the Los Alcázares Town Hall website.

Breakfast club

THE beach bar opening on the dog beach Playa Canina Las Moreras has generated excitement among beachgoers. The Bolnuevo Dog Club has planned to gather at the beach bar for breakfast, taking advantage of its early opening time of 8am. Dogs are welcome!

Fitness centre

SAN JAVIER has recently made a significant stride in promoting a healthy lifestyle by inaugurating the largest publicly managed fitness centre in the Murcia Region. The new facility, situated in the heart of the town, boasts state­of­theart equipment and cuttingedge amenities to cater to fitness enthusiasts of all levels.

Catherine McGeer

THE Barnuevo Esplanade in Santiago de la Ribera served as the venue for the School Final of Sailing and Canoeing, a thrilling event that concluded the training course. The competition brought together fifth and sixth­year Primary students from various schools in the town. Participants included CEIP El Mirador and CEIP Ntra. Sra. de Loreto, CEIP Fulgencio Ruiz, CEIP La Paz, CEIP Joaquín Carrión, CEIP Severo Ochoa, CEIP El Recuerdo, CC Sagrado Corazón, and the mangueño Mediterráneo.

Representing their respective schools, a team selected by the Centre participated in this prestigious final for both sailing and canoeing. The councillor for Sports presented the awards.

The final results showcased the outstanding perfor ­

Sports Day

STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Green light

mances:

Sailing: Colegio El Mirador claimed the first position, followed by Fulgencio Ruiz,

Moors and Christians

THE Moors and Christians festivities in Santomera kicked off with a spectacular start as five festive groups came together to signal the beginning of the celebrations.

The official inauguration took place at the Auditorium Ginés Abellán, where Francisco Martínez Campillo, the Captain of 2023, made his grand entrance. Joined by the Moros Almorávides, Caballeros y Damas del Ampurdán, Contrabandists of the Mediterranean, Yonud, Hijos del Desierto (sons of the desert), and the recently incorporated Pirates Berberiscos!

The evening also featured a captivating historical recreation performed by the Mar Teatro Cultural Association. Following the proclamation, the festive camp was inaugurated at Calle de la Gloria car park, accompanied by lively music from The Power Band. Looking ahead, the fiestas will be represented at Fitur in Madrid next February, aiming to showcase the charm of Santomera and attract visitors to support its continuous growth. The festive groups have prepared for the highly anticipated grand parade scheduled for Saturday, July 1.

Joaquín Carrión, and Colegio La Paz.

Dragon Boat: Colegio Sagrado Corazón secured the

top spot, with Fulgencio Ruiz, Colegio El Mirador, and Colegio La Paz closely following behind.

Water quality

THE Region of Murcia boasts the most controlled water in Spain, ensuring the highest health standards for its population, according to the latest report on the Quality of Drinking Water in Spain. With data from 2021, the report reveals that Murcia has over 20 control laboratories, on par with major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Sevilla, Malaga, and Mallorca. In terms of the number of control bulletins conducted at each sampling point, Murcia surpasses the national average with an impressive 120 bulletins.

Beaches closed

ÁGUILAS was forced to close the beaches of La Colonia and Poniente due to a sewage spillage caused by a fault in the town’s sewage treatment plant.

The overflow, resulting from an electrical malfunction in the plant, found its way into the sea. In response, local authorities, including the Local Police of Águilas and lifeguards, swiftly evacuated swimmers from the affected beaches.

The spillage, although somewhat absorbed by the riverbed’s sand, led to the decision to close the beaches as a precaution­

ary measure. Red flags were placed to indicate the closure. Samples have been collected, and health technicians from the Autonomous Community are scheduled to assess the situation. The mayor, Mari Carmen Moreno, intends to address the issue in a press conference, urging the regional government to invest in a new wastewater treatment infrastructure.

As of Monday, June 26, the beaches of La Colonia and Poniente remain closed until further notice, pending the results of the analysis by Public Health officials.

Despite being a region with structural water deficiencies, the quality of water in Murcia remains the most rigorously monitored in the country.

Murcia consistently analyses a broad range of parameters, including E. coli, chlorine, boron, and nitrates, often surpassing the national average for analysis proportions.

Overall, the diligent monitoring and rigorous controls implemented in the Region of Murcia guarantee that the water consumed by its residents is of the highest quality and safe for use.

SAN JAVIER Town Council has taken a significant step in raising awareness about Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) by joining the #LuzporlaELA (light for ALS) campaign. On the occasion of World ALS Day, the council illuminated the plane of the Dos Mares roundabout. This symbolic gesture aims to express support and solidarity with individuals affected by this debilitating disease.

Meanwhile, San Pedro del Pinatar has also joined the cause by participating in the #LightforELA initiative on the World Day of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. To make ALS more visible and emphasise the necessity for further research, the auxiliary pavilion of the municipal sports centre has been bathed in green light. Through these united efforts, both San Javier and San Pedro del Pinatar are demonstrating their unwavering support for ALS patients and their families.

is

and we promise to always keep it that way.

Photo credit: San Javier Town Hall website

FINAL EVENT: School champions set sail.

Murcia Pride

LGBTQ Pride was celebrated in the Region of Murcia on Saturday, June 24, albeit in a different format from previous years.

Parades passed through the streets of Cartagena and Murcia with smaller towns arranging events. They delivered a powerful manifesto defending the rights of the LGBTQ community, while a vibrant Pride party featuring music and performances.

The focus of the protest party centred on safeguarding hard­won rights against

the backdrop of increasing ‘hate speech’. Participants emphasised the importance of countering hate in the face of a rising extreme­right ideology.

The parades and events exuded a festive spirit, infusing rhythm into the day’s protests and celebrations. A multitude of people joined the procession, passionately demanding their rights. Despite some progress, individuals acknowledged that there is still a long way to go.

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

Catherine McGeer KISSMANIA hit Spain as the Rock Imperium Festival closed with an epic final concert. The Rock Imperium Festival in Cartagena reached its grand finale on Sunday, June 25, with a historic event that left fans in awe. With an estimated attendance of 60,000 spectators over three days, the festival brought together an impressive lineup of 54 bands and 300 musicians.

From legendary acts like Deep Purple, Europe, Skid Row, and Kiss, the festival offered a diverse musical experience to the anticipated crowd of 20,000 attendees each day.

As Kiss took the stage for their

Meaning that it is better to be careful now so that problems do not occur later on. The proverb was first recorded in 1837, by Irish novelist Samuel Lover in his novel ‘Rory O’More’.

Kissmania

final concert in Spain, the Rock Imperium Festival concluded on a high note, leaving a lasting impact on fans.

One of the festival’s standout features was its impressive lineup of 54 bands, totalling a whopping 300 musicians.

From iconic rock acts to emerging talents, the festival provided a platform for artists to showcase their skills and captivate the audience. The diverse

Beach bus

range of musical styles and genres ensured that there was something for everyone.

Each band brought their distinctive sound and stage presence, delivering powerful performances that resonated with the audience. The anticipation was particularly palpable for Kiss, as fans eagerly awaited their farewell concert in Spain, knowing it would be an unforgettable spectacle.

ALSA is all set to kick off its beach bus service to Cala Cortina and El Portús beaches starting June 24. In collaboration with the town council, Alsa will operate urban bus line number 12, affectionately known as Bus Playa, connecting the heart of the city with these coastal destinations.

From Paseo de Alfonso XIII, the buses will commence their journey at 9.30am, continuing until 7.30pm for El Portús, and departing at 10.30am until 8.30pm for Cala Cortina. Operating every hour and a half, the buses will make multiple stops along the way, ensuring convenient access to the beaches.

This much­anticipated service will be available until mid­September, providing locals and tourists alike with a hassle­free transportation option to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. The route to Cala Cortina encompasses Paseo de Alfonso XIII, Capitanes Ripoll, Plaza Puertas de San José, and Cala Cortina. On the other hand, the route to El Portús covers Paseo de Alfonso XIII, Alameda de San Antón, Escudo, Sebastián Feringán, Cruce Cuatro Caminos, Canteras, and El Portús.

30

Species of dolphin found in Spanish waters.

GRAND FINALE: Celebrating the power of rock.

“Better to be safe than sorry”

Cartagena Town Hall website and Facebook page

Catherine McGeer

ODISEO the Michelin ­ starred restaurant in Murcia, in collaboration with the Aladina Foundation and Relaziones, has joined forces to support the construction of a much ­ needed gymnasium for paediatric oncology patients at the Virgen de la Arrixaca hospital in Murcia.

The Aladina Foundation has launched a crowdfunding campaign on its website to raise the necessary funds for the gymnasium.

As part of their efforts, Odiseo is hosting a special themed dinner event on Friday, June 30, where a percentage of the entrance fee will be donated to the foundation’s fund.

The future Aladina Gymnasium will be located on the hospital’s

Building hope

second floor, covering a vast area of over 400m2. It will offer dedicated areas for rehabilitation, sports practice, bathrooms, storage

space, an office, and an outdoor area. This transformative facility will provide paediatric oncology patients with a supportive environment for personalised physical exercise and sports activities. The incorporation of the Aladina Gymnasium in the Hospital Materno Infantil Virgen de La Arrixaca will be made possible through funding from the foundation. The facility will also have a professional specialising in Physical Activity and Health, who will play a crucial role in implementing personalised sports programmes for children and adolescents with cancer, aiding in their treatment and recovery journey.

Celebrating expansion

ONA HOTELS & APARTMENTS, a prominent hotel chain in Spain specialising in the Aparthotel and Condo hotel segment, has recently expanded its portfolio with the acquisition of the Lomas Village complex, situated at La Manga Club. The sprawling 550­hectare resort features three golf courses, a luxurious spa, 28 tennis courts, and more than 20 diverse restaurants. Driven by its ongoing expansion strategy and a focus on the holiday segment, Ona Hotels & Apartments recognises the immense potential of the Costa Calida region as a year­round destination.

With a desire to contribute

to the positioning of the Region of Murcia beyond just seasonal appeal, the hotel chain has solidified its commitment by incorporating a new property into its esteemed collection. The Ona Lomas Village­La Manga Club marks the fourth establishment in the area to be managed by Ona Hotels & Apartments.

The Ona Lomas Village, now under the capable management of the hotel chain, offers a total of 199 fully equipped flats. These spacious accommodations, available in one, two, and three­bedroom configurations, boast an enviable location near the stunning Calblanque natural park,

Summer sports

AS summer approaches, the scorching heat brings along free time and a desire to make the most of every moment. And what better way to seize the season than by engaging in various sports activities in Los Alcazares?

The Sports Council, in collaboration with numerous local clubs and sporting facilities, presents an array of options to embrace the summer spirit. Whether you wish to pursue your favourite sport or explore a new discipline that has always intrigued you, the entire summer is brimming with possibilities.

The comprehensive programme of activities offers an extensive selection to cater to all preferences. From Zumba sessions to competitive tennis matches, engaging chess battles to thrilling padel tennis games, canoeing adventures to football tournaments, and serene sailing experiences to dynamic summer schools, there is something for everyone. Not to mention volleyball matches and much more!

To discover the complete programme of activities on your preferred sports, visit Los Alcázares Town Hall website for further information.

of Portman, and the beaches of the Mar Menor.

Join Pilarmonics chorus

PILARMONICS CHORUS is a group of women who enjoy performing and singing together in harmony. Their year begins in September and last October they held a recruitment day, on ‘World Singing Day’, where they recruited four new members!

During October and early November, they begin rehearsals for Christmas, ready for their Christmas ‘Singouts’ in November and December.

They have a full range of well­known songs and are continually trying to increase and improve their repertoire so they can enter National and International competitions. They also sing for local organisations and during May this year joined Adapt Theatre Group to perform in their cabaret ‘Moulin Bleu’ at the Language School in San Javier. They meet on a Wednesday at 6.45pm in Dolores de Pacheco, at the Centro Civico, and will start rehearsals again in September.

the picturesque Bay

Aladina Fundación empowering young heroes.

Fundación Aladina Facebook page

Water safety

Catherine McGeer

ESSENTIAL tips for children. Drowning incidents can occur quickly and silently, making it vital for parents to be well­informed and proactive in preventing such accidents. One of the most critical safety rules is to never leave children unattended near water. Even shallow water can pose a risk, and accidents can occur within seconds. Always stay within arm’s reach of children.

When around water, it is important not to leave toddlers wearing disposable nappies. These nappies can become heavy when soaked, causing toddlers to sink if they fall into the water.

If you are not a confident swimmer, it is recommended to take swimming lessons to ensure you can respond effectively if your child gets into difficulty in the water. Basic knowledge of water safety, rescue techniques, and CPR can be invaluable in case of an emergency.

While inflatable armbands and other flotation devices can provide some assistance in the water, they should never be solely relied upon to keep children safe. These devices can deflate or slip off, and children can still get into dangerous situations even while wearing them. Toddlers are particularly vulnerable due to their lack

of understanding and impulse control. Secure pools with childproof barriers, lock gates and remove any objects that could potentially allow them to climb over barriers.

Enrol your child in swimming lessons as early as possible. Swimming skills can instill confidence in the water, teach children how to stay afloat, and enable them to handle emergencies better.

When selecting swimming suits for your children, opt for bright and easily visible colours. Brightly coloured swimsuits increase their visibility in the water. Avoid choosing swimming suits in shades of blue or grey, as these colours can blend with the water.

In case of an emergency, the designated emergency services number is 112.

Keeping kids safe: Water-smart essentials.

Photo credit: Shutterstock/Sergey Novikov

THERE have been many self ­ proclaimed ‘lovable rascals’ living on the Costa del Sol and one of the most memorable, Ronnie Knight recently passed away aged 89.

Initially best known to the general public as the husband of the late Dame Barbara Windsor, who was his second wife in a partnership that lasted 21 years, he found a second home in Spain prior to any extradition treaty coming into effect.

His knowledge of the law ensured that he was acquitted in 1980 after being charged with the murder of gangster Alfredo ‘Italian Tony’ Zomparelli, who stabbed and killed his brother David, but when he later confirmed in 1998 that he had hired a ‘hitman’ (which he denied again in 2002), he couldn’t be charged again due to the ‘double jeopardy’ law.

He ran away to the Costa del Sol in 1984, on the same day that his brother John was arrested on suspicion of being involved in

Lovable rascal

a major robbery at Security Express the previous year.

Thus began his 10­yearsojourn on Spain’s Costa del Sol where he opened an Indian restaurant as well as a nightclub and bar and once established in Fuengirola and having kept

possession of a local property following his divorce from Barbara Windsor, he had a high profile marriage to third wife Sue Haylock. With money troubles, he was lured back to the UK by the News of the World with a promise of big money for his exclusive story,

THE government announced on Tuesday June 27 the extension of anti­eviction measures while discontinuing the extra extension of rents. These measures were initially implemented during the Covid ­ 19 pandemic and have now been prolonged through a royal decree law.

The government aims to address housing, transportation, tax, and energy price concerns arising from both the pandemic and the inflationary crisis linked to the war in Ukraine. This lastminute extension will also incorporate additional measures, including tax rebates for electric vehicle purchases.

he was arrested and charged with handling £315,000 of the cash stolen from Security Express.

Since his release he moved to Cambridge and died from pneumonia on June 12 having suffered from Parkinson’s disease.

Government safeguards

Starting from July 1, tenants will no longer be able to extend their expiring contracts by six months. Since March 2020, tenants whose rental contracts had expired were granted a sixmonth extension due to the challenges posed by the lockdowns. This extension allowed tenants extra time to find a new home without facing changes in rent prices or other lease conditions.

Despite the discontinuation of rent extensions, the government has agreed to extend the anti ­

eviction measures implemented during the pandemic. These measures ensure that vulnerable households are protected from eviction if they can demonstrate economic vulnerability and the inability to find alternative housing.

The government justifies the extension of anti ­ eviction measures because the Law on the Right to Housing, passed in May, has not yet taken effect. This law, which aligns with the spirit of the Covid­19 anti­eviction measures, requires regional authorities to establish mediation and arbitration services to assist families facing eviction.

Ronnie Knight lived the high life.

ANTI-EVICTION: Government ensures housing security.

Photo credit: Pexels/Kindel Media

Credit: Screenshot Costa del Crime

Golden Leaves Funeral Planning: Reliability with a human touch

OVER the decades, Golden Leaves has been recognised as one of the most respect ed brands in funeral care and planning. Its evolution at the vanguard of cham pioning best practices throughout the United Kingdom and abroad and its reputation for innovation and ‘client first’ business practices have firmly placed Golden Leaves as a symbol of quality, reassurance, and compassion ate service to thousands of customers.

International Operations Director of Golden Leaves, Emma Quantrill, leads her team in helping clients to navigate which plan is best for them and their loved ones from their direct, simple, tra ditional, and repatriation plans. Each of these plans has been designed with the expat in mind, guaranteeing to cover the cost of your funeral when the time comes. Emma and the team's caring, thoughtful, and sensitive approach helps take away the pressures of having to ar range a funeral while supporting grieving families and friends during these tu multuous times.

Specialising in providing funeral services and plans for expats living in Spain, Golden Leaves has unrivalled international expertise in understanding the unique requirements and providing services that are tailored to cultural and religious preferences. The multilingual services help to bridge the gap with language barriers, offering full support and ensuring clear communication and understanding throughout.

“My husband and I arranged funeral plans with Golden Leaves a year ago. The staff are amazing - kind and always helpful and professional, just as you would hope they would be in this type of industry. I have no doubt that, when we come to avail ourselves of the funeral service itself in the fulness of time, they will be every bit as helpful, kind and professional.

“I was very impressed with the process from the start to the sale. I would recommend this service to everyone.

The documentation was clear and a credit to you all.

On July 29, 2022, all UK funeral plan providers must be regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to sell or administer a funeral plan, these also include ANY International funeral plans (those sold in Spain) that can also be utilised in the United Kingdom if desired. Golden Leaves is one of only two companies selling FCA-regulated funeral plans across the Spanish mainland and both the Canaries and the Balearic Islands.

Inspired by her team and the service they provide to their clients, Emma told the Euro Weekly News that it is their range of plans, customer support, and payment plan options that set Golden Leaves apart from the rest. The team has helped thousands of expats in Spain prepare everything for their funerals, providing a dedicated and caring support system in times of needwhatever your financial situation. Here at Golden Leaves we give a helping hand.

all the paperwork in Spain when you need it most.

Thank you, Golden Leaves.”

– Janet Lambert

Planning a funeral is a stressful and emotionally challenging process, particularly with the complexities of navigating foreign procedures and another language to contend with. Emma and her team at Golden Leaves understand this situation deeply and have been helping thousands of expats put their minds at ease by getting their affairs in order before the time comes. With a ‘one call does it all’ service to help take care of

Their prepaid funeral plans allow individuals to arrange and pay for their funeral in advance, taking the stress and worry away from grieving family members and friends. This provides the peace of mind that everything is taken care of and that all of the financial arrangements are in the best possible hands. Their range of funeral plan options are flexible and accommodates different preferences and budgets –whether it be a simple and small ceremony or an elaborate service with many guests to cater to.

www.goldenleavesinternational.com Address: Avenida De La Pla 123 – 125

“Many thanks for your help in the few days leading up to Christmas and your extra efforts on Christmas Eve staying at work to do all you could to help us. It was most appreciated. You will be pleased to know that my son managed to get his emergency passport and arrived on the morning of the funeral service.

We would also like to thank all those in Spain who helped us provide a wonderful celebratory service for Mum. Thanks to all of you for doing more than providing a professional service and providing a helpful and personal one.” - The Dorrington Family

Golden Leaves accept both Euro and Sterling payments, with options to suit all budgets and requirements.

Emma is an avid believer in the product.

Thank you” - Christine O Peckham

Golden Leaves’ Emma Quantrill: Caring for you and your loved ones

PLANNING our funeral isn’t something most of us like to consider. However, it is especially important for those living in a foreign country to plan ahead for when the time comes, alleviating some of the stress for bereaved loved ones and giving them the peace of mind that everything is arranged and paid for. That’s where Golden Leaves can help, a professional and empathetic company that has been in the funeral planning sector since 1984.

The international team, led by international operations director Emma Quantrill, provides support to friends and family of the deceased during these tumultuous times by alleviating some of the stress. Particularly for those living abroad, the multilingual professionals will explain everything in a language that you can understand, giving you full confidence and peace of mind.

“Golden Leaves were a godsend in guiding me through the residency process; they booked my appointments, and ensured I had met all the requirements, including health cover to ensure a swift process. A special thank you to Victoria for her assistance.”

Deborah Lomax

We spoke with Emma about the services from Golden Leaves. Emma told us: “In our case when dealing with funerals, we see many people grieving and not thinking as they normally would. We are there to safeguard the client and ensure that everything is carried out as per their wishes, taking the distress and financial burden away from family and friends when the time comes.”

Although death can be an uncomfortable subject for many of us, Emma’s leadership, humility, strength, and dedication to her clients allow her to deal with situations compassionately. In what has

been a male-orientated profession for centuries, Emma has broken the glass ceiling to lead one of Spain’s most trusted and respected funeral plan providers over the past nine years. This extraordinary woman has become wellknown as a caring, thoughtful, and committed leader in the field, supporting many in

“I decided it was time to consider a funeral plan so my family had no worries when I am gone. Golden leaves were very helpful and the staff are amazing . After a chat I decided to proceed and they helped me all the way. So easy thank you Golden Leaves.” –

Jacqueline Gage

their time of need.

We asked Emma how she achieved her success and what inspires her to provide such amazing service through Golden Leaves. Emma told us: “My life in the sun began in 2007 and I have worked as the International Operations Director at Golden Leaves since 2015. A huge part of my success is the passion I have for our products, and I am an avid believer that a funeral plan is vital for expats to have their affairs in order when living in a foreign country as we don’t always fully understand the system and legalities.”

We asked Emma about her journey in Golden Leaves, and

“I contacted Golden Leaves as I needed quotes for a few different insurances. They were very friendly and helpful, and they talked me through everything. They are always happy to answer any questions I have and it’s good to be able to have all my insurances in one place. An excellent service and I would recommend them to anyone.”

Callam

now with insurance company ASSSA – who provide British nationals with insurance policies in Spain – Emma told us: “I had worked in the industry previously for a number of years and gained a lot of experience, then I discovered

“Just a note to say thank you for the friendly and efficient manner in which you handled my recent insurance claim for expenses incurred following a car accident in the UK. I would heartily recommend your services to any one seeking travel insurance.»

Pat McCue

provider of pre-paid plans in Spain.

I felt aligned with their focus on customer care, services, range of plans, and payment options – and I still feel the same nine years later.

I am proud to be a part of this innovative and ground-breaking company, and I am proud to lead the international team at Golden Leaves.

I believe it is hugely important to love where you work; this is my inspiration and what motivates me to achieve the best for our clients every day.”

We asked Emma what motivates her to provide the best services to expats and what she enjoys most about her role, she told us: “I am motivated and inspired by my team, our clients, the company and the products that we offer. Also knowing that we are in some small way helping that individual and their families at a very difficult time in their lives, this is something we are very privileged to be part of.”

“I really enjoy helping clients and, secondly, seeing my team flourish and the business growing,” she added.

Funeral plans with Golden Leaves are designed around your needs.

The international team led by Emma can help you to navigate which plan is best for you and your loved ones, from their direct, simple, traditional and repatriation options.

Here at Golden Leaves we give a helping hand.

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

Testimonials and Reviews – Golden Leaves

Victoria Gregory, UK

“I already had a plan with Golden Leaves for some six years which is why my friend asked me to join her when she went to make enquiries about a plan for her. The experience was exemplary and Emma, the interviewer (or Operations Director for Golden Leaves as we since found out!) was outstanding. Empathetic, informative, practical and what was most welcome in view of the conversation taking place, enormous fun. Not surprisingly my friend after talking with her family (at Emma’s strong recommendation) took out a plan. Taking out a funeral plan does not speed up your demise but it does make the inevitable a less stressful and more comforting experience for your loved ones…..so my advice would always be ‘go for it’. Huge thanks to Emma and the team…..and my friend and I will certainly be taking you up on that offer of a cuppa in the near future.”

Callam

I contacted Golden Leaves as I needed quotes for a few different insurances. They were very friendly and helpful, and they talked me through everything. They are always happy to answer any questions I have and it’s good to be able to have all my insurances in one place. An excellent service and I would recommend them to anyone.

Christine O Peckham

I was very impressed with the process from the start to the sale. I would recommend this service to everyone. The documentation was clear and a credit to you all. Thank you.

Julian Taylor

We got in touch over the phone and the helpful representative... thoroughly explained everything in a dear and informative manner. We both chose a plan, and it was such a relief to know we were covered for when the time came.

Pete Freestone

Explained everything perfectly. Very pleasant and efficient handling of the paperwork (thanks Emma). Hope all goes well when the time comes but not yet thanks!!

K White

I called Golden Leaves, a representative came to visit and explained everything to me. They payment was taken over the phone and my wife covered immediately.

The Dorrington Family

Many thanks for your help in the few days leading up to Christmas and your extra efforts on Christmas Eve staying at work to do all you could to help us. It was most appreciated.

You will be pleased to know that my son managed to get his emergency passport and arrived on the morning of the funeral service.

We would also like to thank all those in Spain who helped us provide a wonderful celebratory service for Mum.

Thanks to all of you for doing more than providing a professional service and providing a helpful and personal one.

Many thanks

L. Musgrove

My mother felt that she didn’t want me to have to deal with all of this alone when the time came, so she set up a Golden Leaves Funeral Plan, taking away all the worry and stress.

Golden Leaves were a godsend in guiding me through the residency process; they booked my appointments, and ensured I had met all the requirements, including health cover to ensure a swift process. A special thank you to Victoria for her assistance.

We don’t say we are the best - we leave that to our esteemed clients as seen below.

Deborah Lomax

PASSIONATE about helping people in their time of need, Golden Leaves’ International Operations Director Emma Quantrill has been assisting clients in the UK and Spain to plan their funerals since 2015. A dedicated, caring, and empathetic leader of the international team, Emma will now be working with trusted insurance company ASSSA, offering clients the peace of mind that their health and safety are taken care of.

ASSSA is a well-respected and renowned national insurance company with more than 80 years of experience in providing quality health insurance primarily in Spain. With comprehensive English-speaking assistance for those living abroad, their customer service representatives and medical professionals can assist you with any inquiries or medical needs.

ASSSA Insurance offers a range of healthcare coverage options, including medical, dental, accident and other health-related services, and their plans typically provide coverage for consultations, diagnostic tests, hospital stays, surgeries, and emergency medical care.

When considering insurance

Golden Leaves’ Emma Quantrill partners up with ASSSA Insurance

providers, it's important to carefully review the terms and conditions, coverage limitations, premiums, and any exclusions or waiting periods that may apply. Additionally, speaking with insurance providers and obtaining quotes can help in making an informed decision based on your unique circumstances and preferences. ASSSA places a strong emphasis on personalised attention to its policyholders, and provides a high level of customer service support and advice on all of their policies.

Offering tailored solutions based on individual needs and preferences and different plans with varying coverage options, you can choose the policies to suit your requirements and budget. Characterised by providing quality, solvency, care, commitment, and vocation, ASSSA’s extensive experience has made them one of the most experienced entities in the health insurance sector.

Emma’s involvement with

ASSSA is a natural progression from the sensitive subject of helping people to plan and prepare for their funerals. The Euro Weekly News spoke with Emma about working with ASSSA and her dedication to helping expats in Spain, she told us: “ASSSA are a name that people can trust, which is what attracted me to the company and what led me into insurance after enjoying such success with funeral plans and Golden Leaves.”

When asked about her passion for continuing to look after those in their adopted land of Spain, Emma said: “The synergy

was obvious. After taking care of such delicate matters of the aftercare of loved ones – the most valuable and important people in our lives – it made sense to work alongside another reputable company such as ASSSA. The Golden Leaves team takes care of policies for assets such as your home, your car, and your boat, as well as your health, the health of the loved one in your life, and the health of your family pet.”

After more than a decade of looking after people who have chosen a life in another country, Emma is never phased by any situation and has come to learn to always expect the unexpected. She is calm under pressure, with a relaxed manner that will put your mind at ease, navigating her way through any and all obstacles or pitfalls you may encounter. The combination of using such a trusted company like ASSSA, with Emma providing you with all of the information and advice you need, is a quick, reasonable, and profes-

sional service that is tailored to you as an individual.

ASSSA Insurance has thousands of happy expats across Spain, with Leslie William Willis and Sheila Willis praising the company. They said: “Like many British, we decided to make a life for ourselves here in Spain and were impressed by ASSSA's professional service. We can truthfully say that keeping our ASSSA policy has been the best thing we could have done.”

The benefits of ASSSA’s experience in serving the expat community, together with the best doctors, the best technology and a personal service in your language, are available whenever you need them. You will have a lifetime guarantee, immediate access and no waiting lists, a choice of the top doctors and medical professionals, no premium increase, and no co-payment health policy to pay. Your health and safety, as well as that of your loved ones, are in the best hands with ASSSA Insurance.

Their Basic, Standard, Plus, Master, and Summum health policies offer various coverages to suit your needs and are suitable plans for visa and residencia applications.

The top benefits of buying a property on the Costa Cálida

IMAGINE waking up to breathtaking coastal views, basking in the warm Mediterranean sun, and enjoying a relaxed and vibrant lifestyle every day.

This dream can become a reality when you consider buying property on the Costa Calida in Murcia.

The Costa Calida boasts over 250 kilometres of stunning coastline, featuring pristine beaches and secluded coves.

There are 26 blueflagged beaches along the Costa Calida with the beaches of Aguilas often tipped as some of the best in Spain.

The Costa Calida is also home to the renowned Mar Menor, Europe’s largest salt -

water lagoon. Its high salt and mineral content, combined with the region’s microclimate, offers various health benefits.

The lagoon’s therapeutic properties are believed to alleviate skin conditions, soothe joint and muscle pain, and provide overall well-being.

One of the greatest appeals of the Costa Calida is its enviable Mediterranean climate.

With mild winters and hot summers, you can enjoy a year-round temperate climate, perfect for outdoor activities and leisurely living. The region enjoys an average of over 300 days of sunshine annually.

Embracing the Costa Calida lifestyle means immersing yourself in

the vibrant Spanish culture.

The region boasts a wealth of traditional festivals, local markets, and authentic cuisine.

Compared to other popular coastal areas in Spain, the Costa Calida offers an attractive proposition in terms of affordability and value. Property prices here are relatively competitive, providing an excellent investment opportunity.

Investing in property on the Costa Calida is an investment in an extraordinary lifestyle. There are several professional and wellconnected estate agents inside this supplement offering a stunning range of choices for you to choose from.

STUNNING COASTLINE: The endless benefits of Murcia’s coastline.

Advertising Feature

WHO are we - we are TJ Electricals, and we are a family-run business offering a one-stop shopping experience for all your household electrical items. As part of Euronics - the biggest buying group in Europe, we can offer you the widest choice at competitive prices with a personal touch that large retail chains and online retailers can’t offer.

If you can’t get to our store, you can telephone, email or WhatsApp us and we can send you details of the items we have available including pictures, specifications, and prices for you to look at in your own time. Once you have decided what you need, just let us know - we can also offer advice on which would be the best solution for your needs.

If you are ordering several items at the same time, then we can work out a discounted ‘package price’ based on your choices. All our quoted prices include delivery, installation and removal of old appliances where necessary, and we will

TJ ELECTRICALS SL Your local Euronics one stop electrical shop

deliver on a pre-agreed date and time.

We supply all major brands and can even make a special order for you when you might want that item that is a little bit different.

Here are just some of the items we stock in store - Televisions (including smart and 4K), sound systems and sound bars, audio systems, Bluetooth speakers, telephones, kettles, toasters, irons, vacuum cleaners (including Henry and Shark), hair dryers, fridges, freezers, ovens, hobs, washing machines, tumble dryers, dishwashers, air conditioning, fans, heaters, airfryers (including Ninja and Cosori) - in fact just about anything you can think of!

Storing DIY tools Ideal for golf

WHETHER you have a modest set of DIY tools, such as paint and brushes, to perform simple tasks and updates to your home, or a large tool kit that would make any decorating expert jealous, it’s essential to store your items appropriately. Common DIY supply storage errors result in destroyed materials and tools that are no longer functional, as well as possible safety issues from improper storage.

Storing products next to ra diators is not only detrimental to the quality of your products, but also dangerous. When radi ators heat up, any adjacent liquids and soluble sub stances are at risk of altering consistency because of the increased temperature

Additionally, aerosols, for example, can quickly overheat and expand, causing their containers to explode, rup ture, or even blow up, endan gering everyone in the house and inflicting damage to walls, furniture, and other goods.

Experts also warn against

storing your DIY products in bathroom cabinets. Anywhere with increased moisture and damp air can spoil liquid supplies like paint and glue. Cabinets and cupboards that aren't subject to changes in temperature are ideal for storing your decorating essentials.

Stacking supplies, such as cans of paint, on top of each other or too close together can cause serious injury or damage as well as leading to spillages and leaks. Instead, create compact shelving that provides a firm platform for each heavy object, making them less prone to move

It’s also essential to clean your tools before storing them, however tempting it may be to store paint brushes without washing them first. After cleaning them by soaking in water, put paint brushes in a jar with the handles down, or hang on the wall or pegboard to maintain the bristles.

THE Costa Calida is often called the Costa del Golf as it is not just a hobby but a way of life in Murcia. Many of the properties that are available to purchase in this region are based on golf urbanisations. The small region boasts 12 top golf courses to choose from such as Roda Golf in Los Alcazares and La Torre Golf Resort in Torre Pacheco. The most luxurious and probably the most famous golf resort on the Costa Calida is La Manga Golf with three courses to choose from, two designed by Robert Dean Putman and one designed by Dave Thomas.

Every time a new course is built you can be sure that there will be a development of housing, often a mix of apartments, townhouses, and villas, and those who purchase a property around a new golf course can normally expect to negotiate very good club

membership deals.

It seems almost perverse that an area that doesn’t have a huge amount of annual rainfall and can be very hot for those enjoying the pastime is looking to build more courses, but you can reckon if these companies are prepared to invest 10s of millions of euros, their research will have shown that the market exists.

Golfers are often happy to travel a reasonable dis-

tance in order to play on different courses and as they become more skilled, they want to be on the most challenging courses.

The Costa Calida is very popular with golfers offering a wide variety of topclass courses that are easily accessible with Alicante Airport only a 40-minute drive away. September is a popular month for golfers and the region will attract many golfers during that period.

TJ ELECTRICALS: Supply all major brands.

– Robert Kneschke/shutterstock

Golf is a way of life on the Costa Calida.

Photo credit: Lamangaclub.com

Be a smart buyer

IF you are thinking of purchasing a property either as a forever home or as a holiday paradise, take time and make in formed decisions, especially with a second-hand prop erty, to consider all of the pros and cons.

You need to be certain that there is a proper title to the land so that there is no unwelcome surprise further down the line if it was built without permission.

Generally, this has not been a major problem in the Costa Cálida but has caused significant heartache in some other parts of the coun try. Always research the market, it will help you to determine if it is the right time to buy and what you can ex pect in terms of value appreciation.

If it’s part of an urbanisation, find out early what your monthly or annual community charge is going to be and whether it’s managed by fellow residents or outsourced to a professional company.

In the UK we tend to have properties surveyed either to obtain a mortgage or to ensure that the property we have fallen in love with is generally considered sound. There are good surveyors around so make sure to carry out a thorough inspection on the property and work with a reputable real estate agent who can offer invaluable insights. Another good idea is to seek legal advice from a Spanish lawyer, they can protect your interests throughout the buying process.

Next think about glazing, air conditioning, and heating as some properties can get very hot in the summer and chilly in the winter and you want to ensure that you are comfortable.

Nowadays so many of us are environmentally conscious so perhaps look into the possible cost of solar panels to save electricity charges. Contact any of the top agents advertising in this supplement for advice.

Music the Food of Love

THERE could be a misconception about entertainment in the Costa Calida as some may erroneously think it’s all night clubs and tribute shows, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.

If that is what you looking for, then you won’t be disappointed but there is so much more to enjoy all along the coast and further inland. With the region boasting two stunning theatres, the Teatro Romea in Murcia City and El Batel in the Port of Cartagena, there are always a variety of shows to choose from such as ballet, opera, and musicals.

The region is also well-known for its music festivals like the Rock Imperium Festival, Warm Up Festival, and the San Javier Jazz Festival. With well-known artists and bands featuring in them like Kiss, Simply Red, Nicky Jam, and many more.

This is just the tip of the iceberg as all during the year and the summer months, in particular, even the smallest village hosts its own fiesta with a fantastic range of entertainment including musicians of all types, including traditional dancing like Flamenco.

Many towns also have their own theatres and although most productions are in Spanish, there are quite a few musicals and there are a number of expat theatre groups that produce shows in English, with Panto always popular.

The Spanish entertain in the summer but that’s often a bit hot for the expats, so they hold most of their productions in the autumn and spring and if you are a budding performer there are plenty of groups to join.

Benefitting from solar panels.

Credit: Neil Cummings flickr

A good investment

MANY of us have dreamt of owning a property in Spain, whether it be as an investment to use during the holidays or as a permanent new home, but what are some of the advan tages of owning a property in Spain?

During times of political in stability, such as the pandem ic, war, and high inflation, gold and real estate are safe havens for people and ensure capital. Owning a property in Spain can also stave off infla tion as savings sitting in the bank disappear because of ris ing inflation. Real estate offers a safe way to look after and deposit your life savings.

Real estate is also a tangible asset that is under your control, unlike investments such as cryptocurrency and other ethereal investments that are hard to understand and monitor. Property also offers security, as the laws in Spain give property owners a solid legal framework and with some regions having slashed property tax and

Declutter your home

stamp duty on buying property.

It’s no secret that, unlike volatile investments such as stocks and bonds, real estate offers a gradual and constant increase in value over time. According to Idealista, property prices in Spain have risen by 16 per cent in the last five years. You can also generate passive income on your property by renting it out as a holiday home when you are not there.

A lot of people don’t know that Spain offers lenient tax allowances which reduce a landlord’s bill by 70 per cent or more (applies to EU residents only). You can deduct all property maintenance costs, including legal fees (used to compute the rental tax) and mortgage interest! Property provides excellent returns on investment after deductions.

DECLUTTERING your home can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. With the right attitude and approach, you can easily transform your cluttered space into an organised one. By following these simple tips, you'll be able to enjoy a clutter-free home in no time!

In the living room, get rid of any old magazines that you have read, or books on the shelf that you won’t read, by donating them to friends or charity. Get rid of any excess blankets or ones that are threadbare. Remove anything that is broken, uncomfortable, or no longer of use - such as DVDs and CDs that can be streamed and broken photo frames.

In the kitchen, remove any out-of-date food and old condiments, freezer food with frost burn, and old herbs and spices. Throw away any chipped or excessive glassware and ceramics such as mugs and glasses,

containers without lids, drinks bottles and flasks that are no longer used, and the hundreds of carrier bags we all collect!

In the bedroom, declutter your wardrobe and donate any unwanted clothes, jewellery, scarfs, belts, and shoes that no longer fit or are uncomfortable. Throw out any make up you no longer use or that may be past its best, organise any loose change

and receipts, get rid of odd socks, and use stylish hangers inside your wardrobe or on walls to make sure everything is tidy.

In the bathroom, get rid of old or expired toiletries, old or tatty towels, shower caps and bath robes you don’t use, stained cloths and flannels, and cleaning products and tools that haven’t been used in a while (we’ve all got them!)

Real estate in Spain is always a good investment!

Image - Watchara Ritjan/shutterstock

Decluttering leaves you feeling relaxed and in control of your home.

Bringing nature indoors

AN increasing number of people are incorporating plants and flowers into their homes and offices, either in pots, hanging baskets, plant walls, plant ladders, or a good old vase. Bringing nature indoors can clean the air and remove toxins, enhance mood, increase productivity, and even help with sleep. The Euro Weekly News has been looking at some of the best reasons to bring plants into your home and office spaces, and how they can improve our health and well-being.

As well as providing decoration, plants can help remove toxins from the air, such as carbon dioxide, formaldehyde, and benzene. They also release oxygen, which can help improve air quality.

Plants and flowers can have a positive effect on our mood and mental health and can help improve our overall outlook, making us feel happier. Nurturing and caring for plants in the home also has a calming effect and can reduce stress levels and blood pressure.

Having plants indoors can also increase productivity and concentration levels. Studies have shown that plants can help reduce distractions and improve focus, and that people with plants in their workspace feel more productive, happier, and calmer.

Plants and flowers can add a beautiful and natural touch to any indoor space, and some plants, such as lavender and chamomile, are known for their relaxing properties as well as helping to improve sleep.

Snake plants, spider plants, rubber plants, peace lilies, ferns, and English ivy are some of the best indoor plants for increasing oxygen levels and purifying the air.

Off-plan properties

OFF - PLAN properties are homes that are still in the design or planning phase, meaning that the construction has not yet started. Purchasing off-plan has a range of advantages, with the main draw being more reasonable pricing. Let’s take a look at some of the other advantages of buying an off-plan prop erty!

Perhaps the most exciting part of pur chasing an off-plan house is that you will have more design options, for ex ample, the choice of an open plan kitchen and living room rather than two separate rooms. Another benefit is that today’s construction rules are more centred around sustainable and environmental ly-friendly designs, meaning you will be saving money on energy bills.

Off-plan properties in Spain are much cheaper than resales or finished homes, priced at almost

15 - 20 per cent cheaper than existing properties. They are also a great investment opportunity, as the value of the property will increase as it gets closer to completion. This means you may have profit at good rates while waiting for the construction to be com -

Off-plan properties also offer better payment plans. A downpayment of 30 - 40 per cent in instalments is usually expected, and the remaining value will be paid after completion.

When buying a property from a construction company in Spain, the seller has to guarantee the important parts of the property against any structural defect, securing it for at least 10 years.

Purchasing an off-plan property has many advantages.

Image

UB40 turn 45

IT has been some time since one of Britain’s top bands has visited Spain, but that is all about to change.

Speaking to Robin Campbell, one of the original founding members of the iconic UB40, he explained that “we can’t just decide where to go, but rely on management and promoters to find the work for us.

“As a touring band, now in our 45th year, we have played almost everywhere and when we return from an upcoming American tour, we are really looking forward to entertaining our fans in Spain!”

They have three performances planned for Spain, July 26 in Santander, July 29 at Es Jardí in Calvia Mallorca and July 30 at Mare Nostrum in Fuengirola.

With 20 studio and six live albums and more than 50 hit singles to their name, the band has a huge range of songs to choose from and recognises the fact that fans will expect to hear some of the big hits.

Robin said “After all this time, I still really en­

joy being on stage with the band, but I think we would all get bored if all we did was just resurrect the hits.

“We are still writing and our next album which will be entitled UB45 (because that’s how old we are) features our new singer Matt Doyle with one or two reworkings of our favourite songs as well as a selection of new numbers.

“Matt used to play in a band called Kioko which supported us on around 40 gigs and I thought what a great singer he was, so when my brother Duncan suffered a stroke and had to retire in order to recover his health, Matt was the obvious replacement.

“The good news is that Duncan is really on the mend and Matt has fitted in with the band as perfectly as we expected.”

It has become clear that since both the pandemic and Brexit that it is quite difficult for British bands to travel to Spain due to much more restrictive visa and instrument importation

requirements and only the bigger and better known performers can really afford to visit.

“You have to rely on good management and promoters to take care of these matters so that we can concentrate on what we do best, which is to entertain, but not too many years ago, we changed management and now my son (who used to look after social media for the band) and his business partner are doing a great job for us.”

With four original members still forming the basis of the band there has been some confusion with there apparently being two versions and Robin doesn’t hide the fact that he is disappointed that his other brother Ali left and then effectively set up in competition and now tours as UB40 featuring Ali Campbell.

The hard core of this band however have been together since they were 11 ­ year ­ old mates at school, love what they do and the fact that their fans do as well so promise three top performances in Spain this July.

UB40 the touring band.

BUSINESS EXTRA

Boohoo stake

FRASERS GROUP acquired a £22 million (€25.6 million) stake in fashion group Boohoo as owner Mike Ashley makes more online retail investments. The company, which owns Sports Direct, added the 5 per cent Boohoo holding shortly after announcing a 9 per cent stake in the electrical goods retailer Currys.

Going Dutch

PONTEGADEA, Inditex’s €15 billion real estate arm, has bought a €105 million logistics platform in the Netherlands. Pontegadea’s first incursion into this segment outside the US, the installation has been leased to transport and logistics company DVS until 2033, with an option to extend the contract until 2048.

Next up

FASHION retailer Next upgraded its 2023 forecast after better weather and UK workers’ pay rises boosted sales at the company’s 500 stores in recent weeks. Shares rose by almost 5 per cent and the company foresees a pre­tax profit of £835 million (€917 million), an increase of £40 million (€46.5 million).

Client catcher

THE BBVA bank acquired 476,000 new customers during the first five months of 2023, 11 per cent more than during the same period last year. Twenty per cent of Spanish clients who changed banks between January and June went to BBVA, while half joined via the bank’s e­channel.

Gold gone

MATT MOULDING, founder and chief executive of online retail platform THG, has finally relinquished his “golden share” enabling him to block any hostile takeover bid. Moulding’s controversial share was initially supposed to be cancelled a year ago “in furtherance of good corporate governance,” the company said at the time.

Linda Hall

BANCO SABADELL is looking for ways of divesting itself of provisions for risky loans.

Sabadell is also negotiating with other financial institutions to create a ‘bad bank’ where they can transfer loans to companies likely to default.

The bank, headquartered in Barcelona and Alicante, meanwhile contemplates shifting a portfolio of dubious loans, according to sources quoted in Spain’s financial media.

Sabadell has reportedly engaged investment company NK5 to sell the portfolio which includes bad loans as well as others to companies that have not defaulted

STAT OF WEEK €1 billion

turnover for L’Oreal Espana last year, 22 per cent more than in 2021 owing to increased sales in all its segments and integrating part of L’Oreal’s Portuguese operation.

Solution for risky loans

BANCO SABADELL: Catalan bank could sell on risky loans.

but are feared to be underperforming.

The portfolio is worth approximately €300 million although Sabadell expects to place around €150 million of this, insiders said.

The transaction comes at a time when Spain’s banks are discussing the creation of a ‘bad bank’ where they

MEL STRIDE, the UK’s Work and Pensions secretary insisted that the UK’s food prices were rising more slowly than other countries.

Speaking on the BBC’s Radio 4 shortly before the May figures were announced, Stride said food inflation was running at roughly 20 per cent in Germany, Portugal and Sweden.

“So it’s higher than it is here,” he said.

The most recent figures for all four countries cover the year ending in April 2023, when the UK recorded higher food inflation rates than the others.

Stride would have been correct based on the April figures although Germany, Sweden and Portugal’s food inflation has fallen since March. Meanwhile the UK figures remained high.

In the red

THE UK government’s total debt rose to 100.1 per cent of its gross domestic product in May.

This was the first time that the GDP­to­debt ratio had risen above 100 per cent since March 1961, with the exception of a short­lived period during the Covid­19 pandemic which was later revised down owing to stronger GDP figures.

The government’s borrowing rose to £20 billion (€23.2 billion) in May owing to energy support schemes, inflationlinked benefit payments and interest payments on debt. Borrowing was £3 billion (€3.5 billion) lower than in April but £10.7 billion (€12.3 billion) more than a year ago.

Staying put

doValue, a leading operator in Spain which offers banks and investors services for managing their credit portfolios and real estate assets.

INFRASTRUCTURE company Acciona had considered moving its headquarters outside Spain, following the departure of its rival Ferrovial.

can offload loans to companies experiencing problems. They attempted a similar solution during the 2008 crisis with Proyecto Phoenix although with little success.

Bank of Spain permission will be essential for passing on these loans to the proposed ‘bad bank’ that would be managed by

Nevertheless, the same sources have expressed their doubts about the success of this project, which explained why the banks were considering alternatives that included selling on their risky loans.

The outcome of the Sabadell project ­ which was not guaranteed to go ahead, they said ­ could also prepare the ground for Spain’s other high street banks.

Lowdown on UK prices

It was topped only by Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Slovakia and Hungary.

BBC Verify asked Stride’s department which figures he had been referring to.

“We were told he was talking about the first three months of 2023, when UK food price inflation was 18 per cent and Sweden, Germany and Portugal were all over 20 per cent,” the BBC explained.

Executive chairman José Manuel Entrecanales Domecq admitted to shareholders that although Acciona viewed Ferrivial’s decision to decamp to the Netherlands as “legally impeccable”, the company was not contemplating a move.

“Naturally, like all options, we have studied it and our stance is that for the moment we are not interested,” Entrecanales later said to the media.

Acciona’s executive chairman did not go into details regarding the company’s decision not to move, but referred to “multiple reasons” behind the company’s refusal to emulate Ferrovial.

Takeover bid

MIAMI private equity fund I Squared Capital confirmed that, alongside TDR Capital, it was sizing up a €1 billion takeover bid for Applus Services.

Applus, a leader in the ITV vehicle inspection sector, informed Spain’s Securities and Exchange Commission (CNMV) early in May of “non ­ binding and unsolicited expressions of interest” in acquiring it.

The UK’s 19 per cent food inflation in April exceeded the European Union’s 16.4 per cent average and was higher than in all major European economies.

Nationwide promise

NATIONWIDE, the UK’s biggest building society, will not leave any town without a local branch for at least three years.

Consumer magazine Which? estimated in May that more than 5,000 bank branches had shut since May 2015 but Nationwide’s Debbie Crosbie, who took over in June 2022, said last month that just 20 of the building society’s 600 branches had closed down during her tenure.

After Nationwide’s own survey found that 77 per cent of more than 2,000 customers “valued or depended” on physical bank branches, it extended an existing promise that no town or city where it operated would find itself without a branch.

The building society, which is owned by its 16 million customers, first made the pledge in 2019 and had previously renewed its commitment until 2024.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has affected energy prices, together with supplies of grain and fertiliser.

Self-sufficient

DECARBONISING Spain’s aviation industry will need an annual five million tons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by 2050. A report by the PricewaterhouseCoopers consultancy (PwC) for Iberia and Vueling calculated that between 30 and 40 SAF production plants throughout Spain would cover the entire national demand. Although PwC said this would involve investing around €22 billion, Vueling’s Sustainability director Franc Sanmartí, maintained it would give Spain “the opportunity of leading by example” by achieving energy independence. Sanmartí’s Iberia counterpart Teresa Parejo also pointed out that Spain had great potential as an SAF producer, owing to its wealth of forestry, agricultural and livestock residue and waste.

This followed rumours that buyout funds Apollo and Apax and an I Squared­ TDR Capital consortium were interested in Applus.

I Squared has now advised the CNMV that it has still to decide whether to launch an offer.

Downscaling

ROLLS­ROYCE would rejoin the market for smaller jet engines, its chief executive Tufan Erginbilgic said.

Speaking during the Paris air show, he said Rolls Royce was ready to re­enter the market to build engines for single­aisle or “narrow body” jets, although it would probably take a decade before a new opportunity arose.

When he took over in January, Erginbilgic warned that Rolls ­ Royce would have to transform if it was to survive, although while in Paris he also said that the company was “making great progress.”

MEL STRIDE: Insisted UK’s food inflation lower than Europe’s.

Photo credit: CC/Eric Fischer

Photo credit: Pexels/Hobi Industri

DOW JONES

Right all along

FORMER Bank of England governor, Mark Carney, told the Daily Telegraph that Brexit was to blame for soaring inflation in the UK. “We laid out in advance that this would be a negative supply shock for a period of time which would result in a weaker pound, higher inflation and weaker growth,” Carney said.

Church mice

CHURCH OF ENGLAND vicars asked for a pay rise to help them cope with the cost ­ of ­ living crisis. More than 2,000 clergy and lay staff represented by the Unite union have submitted their first ­ ever official pay claim, asking for a 9.5 per cent rise in their current annual stipend, which stands at £26,794 (€32,142).

Salaries don’t stand up

Linda Hall

AVERAGE white­collar salaries are stagnating, prompting fears of another talent exodus.

Companies risk losing their appeal to employees as the cost­of­living continues to rise, the latest Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo) figures demonstrated.

Data provided by Bullhorn, which provides software for the staffing industry, revealed that average UK salaries for professional roles did not improve month­on­month in May. Although this figure did increase by 1 per cent compared with the previous year, the minimal growth did not re­

flect increasing inflation figures and the growing cost­of­living, APSCo pointed out.

The statistics also revealed the recruitment market’s continuing slowdown, despite a slight monthly increase between April and May.

SPAIN’S public debt fell by €8.8 billion to €1.526 trillion in April, 0.5 per cent less than last March, according to Bank of Spain data.

Nevertheless, this was 5.6 per cent higher than in 2022, when Spain’s debt stood at €1.445 trillion.

State indebtedness increased the most, with a 7.3 per cent year­ on­ year rise to €1.356 trillion, followed by Social Security, which increased by 7 per cent to €106.17

Permanent and contract vacancies were up a respective 9 and 6 per cent, month­onmonth, although this did not entirely compensate for the reductions noted in April, when vacancies dropped 16 per cent for permanent posts and 13

A huge IOU

billion.

Comparing April and March figures, the State reduced its deficit by 0.5 per cent but Social Security by just 0.1 per cent.

Regional debts grew to €321.5 billion in April, a 3.5 per cent year­on­year increase but 0.22 per cent lower than last March.

Upbeat Hauwei

per cent for contract posts compared with last year.

With regard to May, vacancies fell 28 per cent and 30 per cent for permanent and contract roles.

APSCo has warned that the tight labour market and continued skills shortages across a number of professions are causes for concern, particularly in light of stagnating pay packages.

“While hiring is dropping across the UK’s professional sectors, on­going skills shortages are still prevalent,” pointed out APSCo’s chief executive Ann Swain.

“In fact, the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that the proportion of the workforce that has been out of work for a year or more and are, essentially inactive, has increased.

“This will only serve to reduce available talent pools for employers that are already struggling to find the skills they need,” she warned.

DESPITE a US veto on Hauwei’s networks, equipment and 5G technology that is supported by many countries, Huawei España recorded a €1.135 billion turnover in 2022. This was 57.6 per cent more than in 2021, while the company’s €29.8 million net profit showed a 49.4 per cent increase on 2021. according to accounts submitted to Spain’s Mercantile Registry.

New face

ENDESA’S board has appointed as its vice­chairman Flavio Cattaneo, who is the new chief executive of Enel, the Italian energy group which controls 70 per cent of the Spanish electricity company. Cattaneo replaced Francesco Starace after he failed to receive backing from Giorgia Meloni’s new government on completing his third threeyear term in April and resigned as CEO.

TALENT POOL: Employers struggle to find the skills they need.

Photo credit: Pexels/Sora Shimazaki

AT the risk of upsetting my gay friends and relatives, whom I truly do love dearly, I am going to stride purposefully out on a limb and state quite categorically that I am utterly against transgender males competing in female sporting competitions.

This statement has nothing to do with homophobia (heaven forbid), it is reached by the simple conclusion that it’s obviously and clearly unfair.

Merely because a musclebound weightlifter decides he wants to change his name to Doris and live as a woman, his choice should in no way give him / her / it / us/ them / or they, the right to compete against the fair sex in trials of strength. If this practice were allowed to prevail in all sporting competitions, most of us would never see a genetic female grace the winner’s dais again.

So, as much as I truly do sympathise with the situations that the basically male, transgender sport enthusiasts find themselves in, the idea that they have being ‘victimised’ and ‘not fair’ that they should be excluded from female

Not the norm

competitions, is in fact quite the reverse. Despite what they would have us all think, men and women on this planet are different, particularly in the physical sense. Do they truly believe that it would be ‘fair’ to pit male boxers and wrestlers, against females? Would they be prepared to take the responsibility of fatalities or serious injuries in the ring ­ simply because they consider all with opposing views to their opinions are homophobic, or simply ‘not fair’?

No, this is the usual rhetoric from another minority, not at all happy with their lot, who are utterly insecure in their ‘differences’ and consider the only way they can be accepted is to browbeat the majority into recognising their situation as ‘the norm’. Well, it’s not the ‘norm.’

What these people (they are hopefully people!) should really be doing is accepting and taking pride in the knowledge that there are many human beings who are in fact different, and to celebrate this phenomena by working toward and per­

ONE MONTH TO GO OUR VIEW

haps introducing a separate category for transgender sportsmen and women, in much the same way as the wonderful work and effort that has resulted in the worldwide success of those find themselves physically impaired. I didn’t hear those marvellous people whinging and whining about their infirmities. Their para Olympics and competitions are magnificent and a sparkling example of what can be overcome by the human spirit.

So I suggest that all those transgender sports people who figure themselves hard done by and put upon, to stop blaming the majority and come up with some positive way of improving their lot. What a great event something like that could actually be. ‘The Transgender Games.’

Book me in on the front row and stop being such pathetic degenerating and utterly unacceptable drags. Keep the faith. Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com expatradioscotland.com Mon. and Frid. 1pm till 4.

IT seems rather strange that as Spain assumes, with much fanfare, the Presidency of the Council of the European Union until the end of 2023, that the current government may have to hand over the reigns of power to another party.

As previously observed in this paper, whilst it was clear that there would have to be a general election by December, the decision to call the election early and on July 23 did come as something of a surprise.

Local and some Provincial elections held in May saw some movement towards the more right wing parties and away from the left, but it wasn’t a total debacle for the ruling coalition and clearly President Pedro Sánchez thinks that he has a chance of holding on.

The fact that the Podemos Party with its supposed links with Iran and Venezuela is being replaced by the new party Sumar created by the popular Minister of Labour Yolanda Díaz could give some confidence to voters, especially as on the other side, Vox continues to utter some fairly unpopular statements concerning domestic violence for example.

Despite the fact that Spain is awash with EU money, much of which should be repaid at some time, many businesses have suffered from a string of new laws which make it more difficult to hire and fire or indeed to keep hard earned profits.

There will be a clear polarisation between the political parties and their supporters and whilst businesses generally will hope for the Partido Popular to take control, the hard right or the hard left (who still exist) may actually tip the balance one way or the other.

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

OceanGate LETTERS

I think that this was a disaster waiting to happen, all in the pursuit of financial profit.

I was born in Southampton and, as such, I feel that I have a personal link with Titanic. You can’t avoid it there, the museum, the monument, the history, etc.

I get the fascination, but $250,000 to visit what is tantamount to a stranger’s grave is verging on morbidity. If OceanGate OFFERED me $250,000 to go down in the submersible, my answer would be ‘Absolutely not!’, and I am not a wealthy person.

Over 1,500 people died on an ‘unsinkable’ ship. Was there not a lesson to be learned there somewhere?

Justification on the basis of scientific research is a nonsense, it’s all about financial gain.

There were aIso expert concerns, which appear to have been ignored, in 2018.

The dangerous circumstances, and common sense, would indicate that there would be little chance of an effective Plan B, should there be a serious malfunction.

I hope that OceanGate are funding the millions of dollars that the rescue attempt is costing, and that they face some sort of legal challenge.

I also hope that the passengers’ prayers are answered, but there were millionaires on Titanic as well, which was also regarded as ‘rock solid’, to quote OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush’s own words.

Regards

Les Coleman Mojacar

PS. Sorry if it sounds a bit like a Leapy Lee rant

Thank you

Hi Glenn

A big thank you for your support.

The Euro Weekly looks great and is a fabulous read!

Kind regards,

Lorraine Henshaw (President, European Union of Women Marina Alta)

Scotland stats

Hiya,

I always enjoy reading your column as one of the first things to do when we arrive back in Calahonda and pick up a paper.

Interesting stats on Scotland that I didn’t know but of course, I assumed they’d be living like royalty while the kids are leaving school half educated, but Queen Nicola is happy because violent rapists now have the choice to be gaoled in a women’s prison, and that is so much more important than the four x the usual rate of post natal deaths and twice the usual rate of spontaneous abortions.

Well Salmond was bad, Sturgeon was

worse, but wait for Humza Crooked Yousaf!

He’ll be the Scots equivalent of Sheffield’s Magid Magid, 100 per cent Crook, mayor of Sheffield, (which he did more damage to than the Luftwaffe) and more recent Member of The European Parliament. ♂

Keep well.

Queen Nicola has to get out the uniform and go back to her old job.

Best Wishes, Jamie

JKJ Swanson

Rowdy travel

Loved your article on Ryanair’s ban on taking alcohol on board, having just had a similar experience on a BA flight. Yes, why the hell were they allowed on board in the first place, one could hardly stand, AND the group being served more on board?

We can rant on trying to find reasons, probably the cost of unloading all the baggage whilst on the runway ­ always financial, however I do take issue with the last sentence ‘not everyone likes to fly with drunken lads’. Well my experience was not even with lasses, five 40­year old women, absolutely embarrassing. I used my ‘How was your flight?’ email and got a reasonable response from BA. Thank you Euro Weekly News for highlighting this ever increasing problem.

Carol

Poor people

I have just spent a week in the UK to attend the christening of my grandson.

I have never experienced anything so bad in my life, there were scores of people, British people, begging. Why do our own citizens have to beg, sleep rough, have very little or no sanitation available whilst we give accommodation, money, mobile phones to thousands of immigrants.

What I witnessed has made me feel for these poor people. I have to say a succession of governments have given the United Kingdom away.

If the country was in this state in 1944 I doubt you would have had thousands of British soldiers running into a wall of German bullets, these soldiers gave their lives for Great Britain, they would not do it today because there is nothing left to save. Where I live you need an income or you simply get sent home, no handouts, they look after their own first. I am not racist in the slightest, but I think the government has no idea what the average British people think. A disgusted expat living abroad.

Terence, 69, been here for 10 years

PETS

PETS

When does a cat need a cat-sitter?

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 HouseSitMatch.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.

Some cats just like to be in their own space with a sitter as the help, occasionally.

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

Pet essentials

Catherine McGeer

WHEN it comes to caring for your beloved four­legged friend, having the right accessories can make all the difference. In this article, we will explore three musthave dog accessories that will enhance your pet’s comfort, hygiene, and overall well­being.

A dog car seat cover is a practical and essential accessory for pet owners who love to travel with their furry companions. This protective cover safeguards your car’s seats from muddy paws, shedding fur, and unexpected accidents. With durable, waterproof materials and secure attachments, these covers are easy to install and clean.

A food storage con ­

GROOMING WIPES: Unleash the joy of accessories.

tainer is a convenient accessory that helps keep your pet’s food fresh, dry, and free from pests. These containers are designed to preserve the quality of the food with easy ­ touse dispensers to make feeding time a breeze.

Maintaining your dog’s hygiene is essential, and grooming wipes are a fantastic tool for quick and easy clean ­ up. These wipes are specially formulated to remove dirt and odours from your dog’s coat, paws, etc.

Purrfect celebration

IN a new and fascinating phenomenon, pet owners are going to extraordinary lengths to celebrate their furry friends. Recently, a pet owner made headlines by organising a lavish baby shower for her pregnant cat, marking a unique trend in the world of pet parties.

The concept of pet parties has been gaining popularity in recent years, with pet owners embracing their pets as cherished family members. These celebrations serve as an opportunity to show love and appreciation for their

loyal companions.

The cat baby shower was an extravagant affair, complete with decorations, gifts, and a dedicated menu for feline­friendly treats. Friends and

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

fellow pet owners joined in the festivities, sharing in the excitement of the impending arrival of the adorable kittens!

This unconventional event highlights the evolving relationship between humans and their pets. It reflects the growing importance of animals in our lives and our desire to celebrate significant milestones with them.

While some may view these pet parties as excessive or eccentric, they can also symbolise the deep bond and affection we have for our beloved pets.

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Challenging travels

THE upcoming football season will see Cartagena FC covering 1,417 fewer kilometres compared to last season. However, this reduction in distance comes at the expense of missing out on trips to Andalucia, with up to 10 matches scheduled in the north of Spain. The team will travel approximately 14,354 kilometres for their 21 away games, making them the team with the most extensive travel schedule this season.

This change affects Cartagena FC significantly, as they will have to travel to the north of Spain for almost half of their matches, while not having a single trip to Andalucia. The absence of Andalucian representatives in the second tier of Spanish football, due to Granada’s promotion, Malaga’s relegation, and Almeria’s lastminute salvation, means that fans will miss out on theoretically closer trips.

In other news, Cartagena FC is

pleased to welcome back midfielder Jony Álamo, who is returning to his hometown after a seven ­ year absence. The talented 21 ­ year ­ old, who overcame a serious injury, will spend the pre ­ season with the first team.

Jony Álamo, a former youth

Age defying record

AGE is truly just a number for 92­yearold swimmer Roberto Alberiche, who recently broke two world records in swimming. Competing for the Club Natación Máster Murcia, Alberiche demonstrated his remarkable abilities by lowering his own record in the 100m freestyle by over three seconds and beating his own time in the 50m with an impressive 38.64 seconds.

A month ago, Alberiche surpassed the 50m record by more than a second, but it couldn’t be considered a world record due to the absence of necessary electronic stopwatches for validation by the International Federation. However, his incredible time of 39.49 seconds in that competition stood as a Spanish and European record.

In his recent record­breaking performance, Alberiche faced a false start, but persevered to swim the 50m in an astonishing time. His achievements in the +90 category included surpassing American swimmer Woody Bowersock’s record by more than two seconds.

Commodore triumphs again

COMMODORE Jack Moss and his crew, Dianne Hardwick, continued their winning streak at the SAMM race day held at CTD Los Narejos.

The event, which hosted several Spanish sailing championships, took place on June 21. In the first race, all five boats started on a starboard tack, but John Down’s decision to switch to a port tack proved costly, leaving him in fourth place.

Steve Hall and Andy Grant’s boat, Omega, took the lead. Despite John’s efforts to catch up, Omega maintained their position, securing victory with consistent lap times.

The wind picked up during the race, allowing all boats except Vision to complete six laps. Cuatro, helmed by Jack and Dianne, claimed first place after handicaps were applied.

player of Cartagena FC, left for Elche’s cadet team and rapidly progressed through their ranks, even making appearances in the first division. However, a knee injury interrupted his career, and now he aims to relaunch his promising talent at Efesé.

In the second race, with stronger winds, John’s tactical move paid off as he overtook Omega to secure the win. This time, John’s Laser took first place, closely followed by Omega. The event showcased fierce competition and tight lap timings, with photos capturing the excitement of the races.

First race. Cuatro 518 secs, Omega 522 secs, John Laser 533 secs, Norman Laser 585 secs, Vision 816 secs.

Second race. John Laser 375 secs, Omega 381 secs, Cuatro 394 secs, Norman Laser 423 secs, Vision 559 secs.

New direction

REAL MURCIA is currently in the process of appointing a new coach following the departure of Mario Simón at the end of the previous season and the clock is ticking. While the sporting director, Javier Recio, expressed the desire for a prompt selection, he emphasised the importance of making the right choice rather than rushing the decision.

As the signing is yet to be finalised, the new coach will have the opportunity to establish their own style of play. Meanwhile, Real Murcia has been actively shaping their youth academy. Recent appointments include Pedro Asensio as the director of the youth team and Carlos Cuéllar, a former player of Osasuna, Rangers, and Aston Villa, as the head coach of Imperial, the club’s reserve team. Cuéllar brings valuable experience from his previous coaching roles at UD San Sebastián de los Reyes.

Recio also has his eye on Rodri Escudero, an impressive midfielder with a knack for finding the back of the net. With an impressive tally of 15 goals this season, Escudero has garnered interest from several teams including Deportivo, Cordoba, and San Fernando.

CARLOS ALCARAZ has proven himself to be a grass court master by securing his first title on this surface after defeating Alex de Miñaur with a double 6­4 scoreline.

Throughout the week, Alcaraz displayed his ability to excel on this terrain, solidifying his presence in the world of grass court tennis. His remarkable victory at Queen’s

Grass master: Alcaraz

not only established his prowess on grass, where he has played only 11 matches, but also propels him back to the world number one ranking, displacing Novak Djokovic.

As the top seed at Wimbledon, which commences on July 3, Alcaraz

stands alongside Djokovic as the most formidable contender for the title.

A week ago, the notion of Alcaraz transitioning to grass and clinching the championship seemed like an implausible dream. Roger Federer required four years to se ­

cure a title on this surface, while Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic both endured prolonged journeys spanning five and six years, respectively. Alcaraz, with only two tournaments under his belt, defied expectations by triumphing on Sunday.

Carlos Cuellar joins Real Murcia.

Photo credit: Carlos Cuellar’s Twitter Account

HOMECOMING AND NEW HORIZONS: Jony Álamo returns.

JUST A NUMBER: Rewriting the record books at 92 years old.

Photo credit: Miguel Angel Noguera (Murcia Sports Minister)Twitter acount