Axarquia 20 – 26 July 2023 Issue 1985

CULTURAL FUSION

PREPARE for a unique showcase of culture and music as Frigiliana’s 3 Culturas Festival returns for another year this August.

This year’s 3 Culturas Festival is set to take place for four days and nights from Thursday, August 24. In a long ­ anticipated announcement on Wednesday, July 12, organisers shared more details about this year’s event, including the musical line ­ up.

With an impressive line ­ up of globally ­ renowned performers, including Arcángel, Eskorzo, Collado Project, and Tarwa N ­ Tiniri, this festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of Arab, Christian, and Sephardic cultures.

After the concerts, DJs will keep the party going all night long, with some exciting surprises in store.

Throughout the day, the winding streets of Frigiliana come alive with music, theatre, and dance, while the festival’s central market is the heart of the action. Visitors can browse over 150

LA HERRADURA’S Fashion Night was a hit on Thursday, July 13, launching the 2023 Virgen del Carmen Festival in honour of the saint.

The fashion show kicked off the celebrations for the Virgen del Carmen, an important traditional event for the coastal town.

Local fashion brands including Sport Corner, Windsurf La Herradura, Priscila, Pétalos, Rosi Pozo, Mona Corbally, Piu Bella, and Lilián Urquieta, showcased their summer collection during a fantastic runway show featuring six young models from the local area.

The deputy mayor of La Herradura, Daniel Barbero gave a welcome address to kick off the event. He shared his thanks to the public for showing out in force and thanked every ­

Turtle-y amazing

TWO towns in Axarquia are rallying behind conservation efforts to protect turtles.

Nerja is holding an event at Playa Burriana today, Thursday July 20, hosted by Acuario de Sevilla and other organisations, to include workshops, educational materials and informative panels to raise awareness about safeguarding the turtles that live along its coasts.

The campaign has already been adopted by many towns in the Spanish Mediterranean including Valencia, Murcia, and the Balearic Islands.

stalls, watch street performers, and enjoy the mountain town’s unique ambiance.

One of the festival’s highlights is its tapas trail, where visitors can sample a range of delicious

tapas and drinks for just €2.

The festival is a celebration of diversity, creativity, and community that showcases the best of Andalucian culture and the unique global influences upon it.

Fashion fix

one who made the event possible. The fashion show started the celebrations which also included musical performances by Niño Carmelo and María Gómez, ‘La Canastera’ and a mass in honour of the Virgen del Carmen followed by the iconic festival procession and traditional dance ceremonies.

The procession of the patron saint of sailors, the Virgen del Carmen was the highlight of the festival. The procession saw local brotherhoods carry a procession float featuring a statue of the Virgen del Carmen into the sea, in a symbolic tradition to ask for protection for sailors at sea.

Recently, lifeguards from Nerja rescued and released a turtle that was trapped in plastic waste off the coast of Maro. This incident goes to show the urgent need to protect these endangered creatures.

Rincon de la Victoria has also launched the ‘Here we save turtles’ campaign on its own shores to educate the public on how to behave if

they find a struggling turtle on the coast. The town has put up informative posters around the area to raise awareness about the endangered turtles in the area. Representatives from the Acuario de Sevilla gave the same workshop yesterday, on Wednesday, July 19, about the biology and lifestyle of the turtles and how to identify their nesting sites.

The campaign was launched by the Oceanogràfic Foundation in Valencia in 2019 and has since expanded throughout the Mediterranean, with 80 towns taking part.

Photo credit: Festival Frigiliana 3 Culturas

A UNIQUE EVENT: Organisers revealed this year’s lineup.

Turtles are often found washed up on the Mediterranean coast.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Nerja

Local business people got the chance to showcase their latest styles.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Almunecar

Unstoppable

TORRE DEL MAR is preparing to host a brand ­ new challenge which combines sports and a good cause on Friday, August 4 and Saturday, August 5.

The town will host ‘Imparable’ or ‘Unstoppable’, a 24 ­ hour non ­ stop sports challenge, aimed at raising awareness and funds for the fight against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

The event is set to take place from Friday, August 4, for the next 24 hours. In the gruelling challenge, participants are tasked with completing a 24 hour stint of their favourite sport, from running and swimming to kayaking.

The challenge, organised by Kiko Montoro, in collaboration with the Velez­Malaga Council and the Mayor’s Office in Torre del Mar, will be held in support of the ALS Association, Saca la Lengua a la ELA.

The challenge has already garnered support from various public figures, including the deputy mayor of VelezMalaga, Jesús Pérez Atencia, who spoke about the importance of raising awareness about ALS.

The initiative has also received support from Torre del Mar’s town hall, which has promoted the event and encourages all sports lovers to get involved.

Construction receives boost

THE region of Axarquia is experiencing a significant increase in the number of homes licensed by the College of Architects in the second quarter of the year.

Torrox, one of the most active areas in the region, saw the processing of 175 new homes in the past three months alone, according to figures released on Wednesday, July 12.

This is a positive development and a welcome boost to the construction sector, which is essential for economic growth in the area.

However, the lack of affordable housing remains a challenge, with no projects set to begin in the immediate future.

According to an investigation by Cadena SER Axarquia, no affordable home projects

were completed during the last quarter. Meanwhile, the neighbouring town of Rincon de La Victoria, completed 141 homes, ranking it second in terms of the town with the most completed homes in the province. With the increase in construction activi­

ty, it is hoped that more affordable housing projects will be undertaken to address the region’s pressing housing needs. The positive trend is expected to continue, and the region is poised for further growth in the coming months.

Get checked

IN an effort to focus on women’s health and well­being, Nerja is taking a proactive approach to detecting breast cancer with a new screening campaign.

The Andalucian Health Service announced a partnership with Nerja Council on Thursday, July 13, to launch a mobile unit that offers early detection tests for breast cancer. The campaign targets women between the ages of 50 and 71 living in Nerja and Maro.

Javier Rodríguez, the local councillor for Health, stressed the importance of early detection and encouraged women to attend mammogram screening appointments.

He explained that the campaign would help improve the prognosis of breast cancer and lead to less aggressive treatments, increasing the chances of survival to 95 per cent.

The mobile unit is part of a comprehensive and individualised approach to treating breast cancer, with professional teams working together to provide the best possible care.

Women will receive a letter inviting them to attend a screening in due course. Those who don’t receive one can contact: 951 066 931 or 951 289 416 to book an appointment.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Torrox

Torrox’s community is constantly growing.

Drivers’ delight

ALMUÑECAR has opened a new 24­hour car park with 200 spaces managed by the charity Cáritas. Visitors can use it for 50 cents per hour, with daily passes also available. Near to El Pozuelo park, the car park boasts easy beach access.

Host families

ALMACHAR is putting out the welcome mat for international students! The mayor, Antonio Yuste met with Claudia Pérez of Eduquality to discuss the benefits of becoming a host family. Eduquality has placed over 300 exchange students with families in the last seven years.

Coastal clicks

TORRE DEL MAR’S beach webcam is the top hit on Andalucia Live, a platform promoting tourism throughout the region. According to Jesús Pérez Atencia, the camera’s success showcases the appeal of the region’s coastal attractions to a global audience.

Rolling trucks

AFTER a successful event in Torrox last weekend, the Foodtrucks Xperience will now head to La Cala del Moral from today, Thursday, July 20 until Sunday, July 23. The event will offer seven international food trucks and musical performances.

Goods seized

A MAN was arrested and charged with smuggling after customs and police seized 12,250 packs of contraband tobacco worth around €50,000. The goods were discovered in a vehicle in Torre del Mar plus €11,650 in cash.

Road rescue

AN early morning accident between multiple vehicles on the A­356 in Velez­Malaga resulted in four people being hospitalised. Emergency services were called to the scene at around 6.30am and acted quickly to rescue and treat the victims.

Sparkling summer nights

MARO is set for a summer of fun thanks to its exciting cultural programme that promises to thrill locals and visitors alike.

The town’s councillor for Culture, Ana María Muñoz, unveiled the programme on Tuesday, July 18. The programme features a line ­ up of performances that will take place in the village’s charming Plaza de la Iglesia.

The programme has already begun with Saturday performances by singer Plácido, who

brought his infectious brand of music to the square. His performances will continue from this

A helping hand

ALMUÑECAR Town Hall has announced they will offer a special service to help people with mobility issues to vote in the upcoming General Elections set to take place on this Sunday, July 23.

The Proteccion Civil Association will provide assistance to those who need help getting to the polling station, offering free lifts to those in need.

The polling station has been moved from the Velilla First Aid Post to IES Puerta del Mar for the national General Elections. This means

that some people who usually vote at the Velilla First Aid Station will need to go to IES Puerta del Mar instead.

The accompaniment service will be available from 10am until 2pm and again from 4pm until 7.30pm. Volunteers from the Civil Protection Association will pick up service users from home, take them to the polling station to vote, and bring them back home.

If you or someone you know requires this service, you can request it by calling 958 635 822 or 607 604 620.

Saturday, July 22 and the final Saturday of July.

On Sunday, August 13, the Frigiliana Flamenco

YOUR EWN HAS

Group led by Angela Muñoz will also take to the stage, followed by Pedro Romón’s magic show on Sunday, August 20.

And on Sunday August 27, the Narixa Choir will bring the programme to a close.

All performances start at 10pm and are completely free, making them accessible to everyone.

All are invited to head down to Maro’s Plaza de la Iglesia and experience the magic of flamenco, the wonder of magic, and the joy of music.

Dazzling dancers

THE award­winning Canadian dance company, Seymour Dance Academy, is set to perform at the Balcón de Europa in Nerja this evening, Thursday, July 20 at 10pm.

The news was announced at the beginning of this week by the local councillor for Culture, Ana María Muñoz.

For more than 50 years, Seymour Dance Academy has been promoting dance by offering classes in ballet, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, modern, musical theatre, tap, and acrobatics.

According to a spokesperson for the

Star-studded hike

ASTRONOMY enthusiasts, get ready for an exciting event this summer!

The Third Paseo Astronómico de la Axarquía, organised by Velez­Malaga’s Department for Sport, the Playas de Torre del Mar Sports Club, and the Axarquia Tourism Board (APTA), is set to take place on Saturday, August 12.

Visitors can enjoy a hike through the picturesque La Maroma mountain range and witness the Perseid meteor shower, also known as the ‘Lágrimas de San Lorenzo’.

The free hike covers 18 kilometres and will take around 12 hours, including rest stops to

65

STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Spectacular songs

NERJA is warming up to host its Fourth International Piano Festival on Friday, July 21, at the Centro Cultural Villa de Nerja starting at 8pm.

observe the natural phenomenon. The event is open to all, but requires good physical fitness and a hiking federation membership.

The Playas de Torre del Mar Sports Club’s President, Rafael Sánchez, confirmed that this year’s event will take place on the iconic Maroma peak, the highest point in the Malaga region.

The exciting announcement came just after many residents reported seeing Elon Musk’s Starlink over Axarquia this week.

All are invited to this unique opportunity to witness the Perseids in all their glory!

academy, “We care about the well ­ being and development of each of our students and treat them as part of our own family.”

Currently on a tour of Europe, the company is performing various productions, including the annual ballet performance of ‘The Nutcracker’.

The Seymour Dance Academy has won numerous awards, including being voted the best dance school in North Shore in 2010, 2012, and 2013, and voted one of the top three in 2011 and 2016.

The International Piano Festival will feature the Malaga Symphonic Orchestra and guest conductor David García­Carmona. The concert is the closing event of the Malaga International Piano Festival, so should see a great turn­out!

The local councillor for Culture, Ana María Muñoz, shared her thanks to the festival’s organisers for choosing Nerja as the closing venue and to the regional government of Malaga for providing the orchestra.

She encouraged Nerja residents, visitors, and tourists to attend the concert and enjoy an evening of beautiful music, particularly as entry is free.

Friday promises to be a spectacular finale in Nerja, attracting music enthusiasts from far and wide.

is

and we promise to always keep it that way.

EXCITING PROGRAMME: Maro is preparing for a summer packed full of entertainment.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento de Maro

FUNDRAISING: Guests enjoyed socialising over delicious Greek food.

Betty Henderson

ONE Competa­based charity, Todo Ayuda, held their second fundraising event on Friday, July 14. The event was a Greekthemed evening held at La Carpinteria bar, with all proceeds going towards supporting local animal welfare initiatives.

The event was a major success, raising an impressive €1,746 through the sale of tickets, merchandise, and raffle tickets.

Charity founder and local councillor, Maurice Jonker, shared his thanks to everyone who contributed to the fantastic final total.

The charity thanked board members

COMARES will host its Festival de Verdiales on Saturday, July 22. The event is set to begin with a parade at 8.30pm, followed by performances on the Plaza Balcón de la Axarquía at 10pm. Afterwards, the cele­

Greek feast

Paul and Sue Bailey for their hard work and the delicious Greek mezze spread they provided. Additionally, Deborah Haywood, Dave and Diane Smith, and Julie Morris donated various bottles of wine for raffle prizes.

Inez Leniere Lopez and Enmanuel Lopez Ruiz from La Carpintería Bar generously donated the venue free, and Jennifer Sim­

mons, Jay Henson, and Paul Kavanagh from El Zumbido provided entertainment.

The charity also thanked their volunteers and partner animal rescue organisations, including ER Puppy HQ, Sarja Microsanctuary, The UnderDog Group, and Give A Dog A Home Rescue Malaga.

Todo Ayuda is a non­profit organisation consisting of 100 per cent volunteers.

Pitch perfect

brations will continue in different parts of the region.

The festival celebrates tradi­

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

tional folk music of the area, verdiales. The music style has deep roots in Comares.

Means that if you are inquisitive about other people’s affairs it may get you into trouble. This saying originated in a 1598 play, Every Man in his Humour, which was written by English playwright, Ben Johnson.

The event will feature performances by more than 100 musicians from various ‘pandas’, or musical groups, including styles from Comares, Almogía, and Montes.

Musicians will also lead vibrant dances featuring traditional costumes and colourful props. The festival promises to be a unique experience for both locals and tourists alike.

Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the verdiales music and sample the local cuisine.

days

ALMUÑECAR and La Herradura launched a new joint campaign called ‘We are sun and beach’ on Friday, July 14, to promote the region’s natural resources to tourists and to protect them.

The campaign highlights the towns’ sandy beaches and good weather, which are the main attractions for visitors and tourists, particularly during the summer.

The towns’ tourism boards see these resources as crucial for the local economy, particularly in maintaining their position as two of the leading destinations on the coast.

Daniel Barbero, the council­

lor for Tourism, said the campaign aims to complement the towns’ existing attractions, including heritage, cuisine, business, and sports, including scuba diving, and cycling. The campaign’s design and style will be used in the towns’ various promotional activities over the next few months.

The campaign hopes to appeal to tourists who are looking for a sun and beach destination and to add to the work by the local Departments for Tourism, workers, and entrepreneurs in the hospitality and tourism sector that make Almuñecar and La Herradura stand out as top destinations.

Flamenco fix

PREPARE to be swept off your feet to the beats of the 31st annual ‘Puerta de la Axarquia’ Flamenco Festival in Rincon de la Victoria on Saturday, July 29, from 10.30pm.

This year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable evening of music and dance, featuring renowned flamenco artists like Ezequiel Benítez, Pedro Carmona, and Chato de Vélez. Or­

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ganized by the Department of Culture of the Rincón de la Victoria Town Council and the El Piyayo Peña, the festival will take place in the beautiful outdoor courtyard at Manuel Laza Palacio School.

Guitarists, including Paco León, Luis Salao, and Antonio Santiago ‘Ñoño’, will accompany the dancers with palmas from Naim Real, Luisa Chicano, and Quico de Tiriri, among other performers.

The festival’s president, María del Carmen Lastre, gave her thanks to the local council and regional government for their support. Lastre invited everyone to enjoy the open­air flamenco show.

Tickets start at €10 for members of the Peña and cost €15 for the general public for the fabulous flamenco event.

“Curiosity killed the cat.”

The first package holiday to Spain.

Final musical appearance

THE musical, ‘El Rey de la Sabana’, is set to make its final appearance in Riogordo this Saturday, July 22, with an impressive new lighting display.

The show, which has been performed nine times since 2019, features 140 students and former students aged eight to 20 from the CEIP Nuestra Señora de Gracia in Riogordo, who perform the musical for charity. This year, part of the proceeds will go to AVOI, a local charity.

The musical, which has been described as similar to ‘The Lion King’ has improved year on year. Each year, the performance

FOOTBALL fever is hitting the town of La Caleta de Velez as the sixth edition of the ‘Ciudad de la Caleta’ indoor summer football tournament is set to return on Saturday, August 5 and Sunday, August 6.

This year’s event will be held at the Trayamar sports complex for the first time, having previously been held on Las Palmeras beach.

The tournament will feature two different categories with prizes for the champions of

has enjoyed better sound, costumes, and lighting, and this year’s show is expected to attract up to 4,000 people. The innovative lighting for this year’s production will use fibre optics, and an Avatar­inspired tree will also feature. The musical is not only a cultural event but also has benefited the children’s learning. The performance will take place from 10pm in an 8,000 metre­squared venue that was renovated by the Diputación in 2020.

Tickets can be purchased online from www.mientrada.net or from Comercial Santa Gema in Plaza de la Constitución, 4.

Scoring big

each category, the best player, and the best goalkeeper.

Jesús Pérez Atencia, the deputy mayor of Velez­Malaga, David Segura, the deputy mayor of La Caleta de Velez, and Rocío Ruiz, the councillor for Sports, announced the tournament this week during a press conference.

The council team invites ev­

eryone to participate and support one of the most popular summer sports events in La Caleta de Velez.

Rocío Ruiz highlighted the importance of promoting sports, especially among young people, as the tournament provides an opportunity for sportsmanship and healthy competition.

Meals on wheels

THE enticing aromas of food from around the world returned to Torrox Costa over the weekend as the Foodtrucks Xperience arrived on the town’s Avenida El Faro.

From Cuban music to the best of Argentinian and Mexican cuisine, the event offered guests a journey around the world through flavours and sounds.

The event, which ran from Thursday, July 13 until Sunday July 16, featured 10 stations, each offering a variety of ‘meals on wheels’ from their food truck stands. The stands catered to different dietary requirements including by offering gluten­free options.

Torrox’s mayor Óscar Medina and Fabián D’angelo, the manager of Baobab Eventos held an opening ceremony on Thursday, where they shared their high hopes for the weekend of culinary creations and cultur­

al activities.

In addition to the delicious food, the event also featured live music performances each night. Friday’s lineup included Alberto Fer and Habana Vieja from Cuba, while Saturday’s performances featured Óscar Root and Los

de Torrox

RINCON DE LA VICTORIA’S town hall is inviting beachgoers to don their snorkelling gear and diving suits to explore the beautiful marine ecosystem of La Cala del Moral beach reef, this summer.

The initiative was announced on Monday, July 10 and is being developed by the Eco & Dive Diving Sports Club. Once up and running, the project is planned to run from this month until December.

The project is aimed at promoting the reef’s marine ecosystem’s natural beauty and the wide variety of marine flora and fauna present in the area.

Take the plunge

to see.

Beach­goers interested in diving can either join a group or dive solo. The only

requirement is to know how to swim, and children must always be accompanied by adults.

Picture this

CALLING all photography lovers! Almuñecar Town Hall is hosting the ‘My Little Paradise. Nino Rodríguez’ Photography Contest, set to run from Tuesday, August 1 until Thursday, August 10.

The competition aims to promote tourism through photographs that showcase the natural beauty, culture, and history of Almuñecar and the neighbouring town of La Herradura.

Eternos. On Sunday, Joaquín Viera and Buddy Holly closed the event with a bang.

The Foodtrucks Xperience was an unforgettable weekend that showcased the best of international cuisine and music available in Torrox.

The dive tours will start with an informative talk on marine life, followed by a guided tour of the reef’s endangered and protected species, covering a distance of around 600 metres at a depth of two to four metres.

The area’s marine life includes brightly coloured tropical fish, black fish, as well as all the native species of the Mediterranean, which divers are expected

The contest is open to everyone over 18 years old. Entries can be in colour or black and white and cannot have been used for any previous competition. Participants can submit up to three works or collections of three to five photographs that capture landscapes, people, festivals, local customs, celebrations, and other tourist attractions.

The works will be exhibited from Tuesday, August 22 until Tuesday, September 12 at La Herradura Civic Centre before the winners are announced.

The participants placing first, second and third will receive cash prizes of €700, €200 and €100. The jury, made up of representatives from the municipality and photography experts, will select the winners.

This competition is a great opportunity to showcase your photography skills and capture the beauty of these unique destinations on the Costa Tropical.

Councillors tucked into some delicious Mexican dishes.

Photo credit: Ayuntamiento

Ten safest beaches in Spain

John Ensor

BEACH tragedies often make the news, but it begs the question where are the safest ones? Here’s a list of places where a young family with children should head to, rather than a list of places to avoid, according to a news source on Monday, July 10.

Nutriben, a company which specialises in infant nutrition and health, has selected the 10 best beaches in Spain to go to with children so that ‘they can play in the sand, swim in shallow water and enjoy fun activities near the water.’

• Playa de Misericordia, Malaga

Children’s playgrounds, open­air cinema in the evenings and a calm sea make this beach perfect for family holidays.

• Playa Fluvial de A Calzada, Galicia

With a blue flag distinction, it has an area for adults separated from the children's area, as well as one for pets.

• Playa de Bolonia, Tarifa, Cádiz

Its large size means that there are no crowds and its sand dunes make it the ideal place for children to climb and play in the sand.

• Playa de Maspalomas, Gran Canaria

Another beach with dunes, a suitable space for children to play and avoid crowds.

• Playa Norte, Peñíscola, Castellón

This beach has also been awarded the blue flag every year, an indicator of its safety.

• Playa de Comillas, Cantabria

A blue flag beach, is considered one of the best beaches on the coast of Cantabria.

• Playa de Alcudia, Mallorca

Its waters are shallow and it is spacious, so it is the largest beach in the Balearics.

• Playa de Cambrils, Tarragona

This beach as a Family Tourism Destination, giving it a seal of quality thanks to its calm, shallow waters.

• Playa Poo, Llanes, Asturias

This beach has no waves. It also has all kinds of safety services, such as parking, security, showers and a health centre.

• La Concha Beach, Oropesa del Mar, Castellón

This urban beach has calm waves and shallow waters, as well as a warm temperature.

Playa de Misericordia in Malaga.

creditplaya de la Misericordia/Facebook

Wine worth €111,000 stolen

The theft occurred at around 1pm on Sunday, July 9, when the store was open to the public. Undetected, the three criminals went upstairs and entered the wine cellar, where the company’s most prestigious wines were kept in a locked cabinet, according to a news source.

They reportedly forced the protective glass with a suction cup and stole nine bottles, some of which were worth up to €30,000.

While they were busy committing their crime, an employee heard suspicious noises and activated the burglar alarm. He subsequently located the thieves and chased them through the wine bar.

However, the robbers managed to jump over the counter with the bottles al­

ready stored in their backpacks. They ran out onto the street where they had a getaway vehicle parked up ready to escape.

The wine company provided the Mossos d’Esquadra with the vehicle’s registration plate and images from the video surveillance cameras.

Workers at the establishment suggested the outrageous theft could have been ‘commissioned by a mafioso boss’ as there are very few wineries in Spain with such an exclusive selection.

“Customers come from abroad to get the bottle they want,” said one employee.

In fact, when a customer enters the store, the bodega obliges them to purchase a case containing one of the most expensive bottles, valued at €30,000. The remainder of the case is then completed with 11 other bottles usually worth around €5,000 each.

150 Earthquakes in one month

FEARS have been raised on the island of Tenerife following statistics which show the level of seismic activity within the space of just one month.

The National Geographic Institute has revealed that since June 11, over 150 earthquakes were recorded near Teide Volcano in Tenerife, with a staggering 112 of them logged in just over 24 hours between July 5 and July 6, according to a news source.

Recently, tremors were detected at around 40 to 50 kilometres under the surface. Meanwhile, it has emerged that magma reservoirs are present at just five kilometres underground.

Astonished researchers on the island discovered that basaltic magma has

cooled underground, causing its chemical composition to change, which they say is resulting in a ‘potentially explosive’ type of magma.

Canary Islands­based research group INVOLCAN has been constantly monitoring Teide for over a year now after 400 quakes were detected in June 2022.

Matthew Blackett, a professor at Coventry University, said: “It remains a very active volcano. This means that there is an active magma chamber below the island.”

Apparently, the seismic tremors are caused by the magma shifting around: “Think about when you touch a pipe with water flowing through it. You can feel a vague vibration.”

Teide has been likened to

the notorious volcanoes, Vesuvius and Etna. The last time Teide erupted was in 1909, an event which lasted for 10 days and spewed out rock fragments 20 km and ash almost 130 km, at the time there were no direct casualties.

Thankfully it has been concluded that the risk is low and that there were ‘few’ indicators an eruption would occur any time soon.

40.3 degrees. The max temp in the UK in 2022.

THREE thieves stole nine bottles of wine valued at €111,000 from the headquarters of Vins and Licors Grau, in Palafrugell, Girona.

WINE CELLAR: Vins y Licors Grau bodega in Girona.

Granada’s cool 13th century tech

DESPITE the advent of modern technology many struggle to keep their homes cool in the height of summer, but one place in Granada is living proof that the ancients knew a thing or two about it.

To escape the intense heat of the Andalucian summer many people go to the coastal areas to cool off, but there is one place in the interior that provides a haven for the hot and bothered traveller, according to a news source on Saturday, July 15.

The Alhambra is one of the most important and most visited monumental sites in the autonomous region of Granada. Its centuries­old architecture continues to surprise technicians today because it was designed to be a refuge from the stifling heat of summer.

The high 40­degree temperatures of the city are much higher than those experienced by visitors to the ancient palace, usually around 25 to 29 degrees.

Curator of the Alhambra, architect Antonio Peral ex­

plained why. “Thanks to its clever design the living space of the building stays cool: It’s like a natural air conditioner.” In addition, all the vegetation that surrounds the building helps to ‘generate shadows,’ especially the large trees. “It’s essential,” says Peral.

Another major factor is the importance of the availability of water, “which refreshes the atmosphere, brings life to the Alhambra, calms and soothes, and its murmur is a relaxing element.” It is present in fountains and ponds within the gardens.

In addition to these natu­

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ral elements, is “the thickness of the walls.” Peral added: “They are very wide and with their wall construction system, the interior temperature is much better preserved, it takes longer to heat up,” he argues.

Hotel thieves arrested

A GANG that specialised in robbing hotel safes in different countries across the European Union have been arrested.

It is believed they were responsible for up to 16 robberies in Spain, two of which occurred in Alicante, according to the National Police on Friday, July 14.

Investigations were conducted with the help of Europol, as the gang operated throughout the EU. As well as Spain they have been linked to thefts in Germany, Portugal, Austria and the Czech Republic.

In a joint investigation between the National Police, and the Mossos d’Esquadra, two members of the group were arrested. Two robberies in Alicante and 14 robberies in Barcelona have been attributed to them.

Evidence revealed that the suspects entered the hotel posing as clients and

looked for possible victims who were leaving their rooms. The thieves would gain access to the room and steal the contents deposited within the safes.

On occasion, they had even stayed at the hotel the night before in order to check on the different clients staying at the hotel and choose those who they thought might have cash in the safes.

The suspects gained access to the hotel rooms without leaving any trace.

Once inside, they forced the safe by drilling a hole in the side, at the height of the pistons, to break them and thus release the locking mechanism of the safe door. When it was open, they would take money and jewellery left by the hotel guests, but not passports or other personal documents.

The robberies took place in different hotels, and the criminals managed to steal more than €50,000 and several items of jewellery.

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THE ALHAMBRA: One of the most visited monumental sites.

87% of the Spanish drink coffee.

NATIONAL POLICE: Were involved in a joint investigation.

BIRD strikes although not an everyday hazard can be extremely dangerous and on the morning of Sunday July 16, Vueling 2112 aborted prior to take off from Barcelona El Prat Airport.

As the Airbus A320 was speeding down the runway, a bird flew into one of its engines and the pilot decided that it was safer to apply brakes at full power rather than continue the take off whilst the plane was around two thirds of the way down the runway.

Flight aborted

The brakes and tyres were overheated by the action but no fire was caused and the captain authorised the cabin crew to carry out an emergency evacuation using emergency slides on runway 24L. The runway was immediately cleared

AIR quality in Spain in 2022 shows improvement compared to the previous year.

The Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge has just published the 2022 Air Quality Assessment Report for Spain which presents the results that will be reported to the European Commission before September 30.

The report details the situation in each of the air quality zones with respect to the legislated values. It aims to give an overview of air quality, as well as describe how air quality is assessed and managed. The report incorporates a climatological summary of the year with

and emergency services attended the aircraft, spraying water on the tyres to cool them down and passengers were picked up by bus and taken to the terminal.

Some aircraft waiting to take off were

redirected to runway 24R and there was considerable delay as air traffic control had to arrange a rota whereby both arriving and departing aircraft could safely use the single runway.

A new aircraft was assigned by Vueling and the passengers, (with no significant injuries, although some were hurt during the evacuation) from the aborted flight eventually departed Barcelona at 12.30pm, with a story to tell about what happened to their flight.

Air quality

data produced by the State Meteorological Agency, including episodes of Saharan dust intrusions.

Overall, the results show improvement compared to the number of times the values were exceeded in 2021. Although the annual limit value for nitrogen dioxide and the daily limit value for PM10 have both been exceeded in one zone (Aviles in Barcelona), there has been an improvement in terms of the annual limit value for PM10 and also for the target value for the protection of health and vegetation for ozone. Particles are defined by their diameter for air quality regulatory purposes.

IMPROVEMENT: Compared to previous years.

Image: Stokkete / Shutterstock.com

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Tipping point

EMPLOYEES at The Ivy restaurant chain complained that they are losing out after Troia UK Restaurants, part­owned by billionaire restaurateur and fashion tycoon Richard Caring, has cut their share of the service charge. The modification came into force once the legal minimum wage rose in April, the Unite union said.

Helping hand

SPAIN’S National Securities Market Commission (CNMV) launched proceedings against renewable energy company, Ecoener, maintaining that it helped two company executives to acquire shares when the company was floated in April 2021. Ecoener has since insisted that only “ minimal” sums of money were involved.

Dead letters

HM Revenue & Customs office has had to create a special taskforce to deal with letters that are still unanswered after a year. The new team will tackle the backlog of more than 37,000 pieces of correspondence that are at least 10 months old to prevent the accumulation reaching the 12­month stage.

Digi prodigy

DIGI COMMUNICATIONS’ board of directors will propose a dividend of one Romanian leu per share (approximately €0.2) at the August 18 annual general meeting. The parent company’s dividends have grown in recent years, thanks to Digi Spain where the company is now a telecoms leader owing to its ‘aggressive’ tariffs.

Living dead

ZOMBIE companies, which formerly avoided bankruptcy through cheap borrowing costs, are now under pressure and unlikely to survive rising interest rates. Insolvency specialists Begbies Traynor, whose revenues climbed 11 per cent to £121.8 million (€142.1) last year, predicted that practically all would fail within 18 months.

Linda Hall

INDITEX shareholders approved the company’s 2022 results and payment of a €1.20 share dividend at the Annual General Meeting on July 11.

They also voted in favour of setting the number of Inditex directors at 10 and re­elected Inditex’s founder Amancio Ortega Gaona, aged 87, as the company’s proprietary director.

The 2022 and early 2023 figures were the result of the “incredible work” carried out by the company’s teams, said Ortega Gaona’s daughter, Marta Ortega Perez, who is now Inditex chairwoman.

Ortega’s address to the meeting, which was held

STAT OF WEEK €1.45 billion

in record sales for the Catalan-based fashion group Mango during the first six months of 2023, showing a 20 per cent increase on the same period last year.

Inditex magic

which owns the Zara, Massimo Dutti, Bershka and Oysho labels amongst others, reported a €4.13 billion profit in the fiscal year ending on January 31, a 27 per cent increase on 2022.

Schools of thought

IF Labour carries through plans to strip independent schools of their charitable status, thousands of children would have to leave their current schools.

at the company’s headquarters in Arteixo (La Coruña), was streamed on the Inditex website.

“The magic of Inditex lies within our team and our values, which are heavily influenced by selfimposed high standards,” she said during the meet­

ing. “The future is not predetermined and we must never forget that.”

Inditex was close­knit, like a family where successes were celebrated together but mistakes taken on board “as if they were one’s own”, Ortega added.

The fashion chain,

Turnover grew by 17.5 per cent to €32.569 million despite 2022’s economic turbulence and the sale of Inditex’s operation inside Russia, which cost the group €230 million.

The first quarter of 2023 was even better, Ortega said: “In these months we faced challenges that were overcome thanks to the magic of Inditex.”

No need for nationalisation

THAMES WATER has raised £750 million (€879.7 million) from shareholders.

Last month there were rumours that the company, which provides water and sewage services for 15 million people in London and southeast England, could enter special administration.

Cathryn Ross, who took over as interim co­chief executive following Sarah Bentley’s surprise departure in June, insisted during a BBC interview that nationalisation “was not on the cards.”

Thames Water had not pulled off plans to secure a hoped­for £1 billion

Still ugly

BIRKENSTOCK sandals, once dismissed as ugly but comfortable, are still ugly but are now fashionable. The brand founded in 1774 is contemplating a $6 billion (€5.39 billion) stock market listing, two years after selling a majority stake to consumer­focused private equity firm L Catterton in a deal that valued the company at €4.9 billion. Brothers Christian and Alex Birkenstock, who are still involved with the brand, are each believed to be worth around $1.7 billion (€1.54 billion) after selling to L Catterton, which has backing from Bernard Arnault, chief executive of LVMH and the world’s second­richest man after Elon Musk.

(€1.17 billion) lifeline, Ross said, although its £4.4 billion cash pile (€5.16 billion) was “absolutely enough” to cover costs for 2023, 2024 “and into the future.”

Postal agreement

ROYAL MAIL employees accepted an offer that ends their ongoing dispute over pay, jobs and working conditions.

Almost 76 per cent of Communication Workers Union (CWU) members voted for a 10 per cent increase spread over three years, plus a £500 (€584) lump sum.

The ballot result ended disagreements that culminated in stoppages by more than 115,000 workers at the end of last year.

“This has been the most challenging period in the history of the union and the company, and I want to thank every single member who has voted in this ballot,” the CWU’s general secretary Dave Ward said

At the same time, the below ­ inflation agreement will leave some Royal Mail employees worse off than a previously­rebuffed offer of 9 per cent over a year and a half.

Nevertheless, another £2.5 billion (€2.93 billion) will be required by 2030 as the company buttresses its finances, shareholders were told.

Thames Water, owned by a consortium of pension groups and foreign funds, has met censure for polluting rivers and was recently fined £3.3 million (€3.86m) for sewage spills in 2017.

At a time when Thames Water has paid huge dividends to shareholders and generous salaries to its executives, the company had also accumulated a £14 billion (€16.4 billion) debt.

Cryptic clues

A STUDY by cryptocurrency experts CryptoGambling.tv named Slovenia as Europe’s most ‘crypto­obsessed’ country.

Analysis revealed that approximately 100,000 internet searches each month were linked to cryptocurrency, averaging out at 4,789 crypto­related searches for information per every 100,000 people.

Spain, with a monthly 907,000 searches was ranked sixth, with around 1,927 searchers for every 100,000 inhabitants.

Luxembourg was the secondmost interested country with a monthly average of 2,634 searches, ahead of the Netherlands which sees 2,608 cryptocurrency searches for every 100,000 people although Holland is one of the few countries which taxes unrealised gains.

The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) think tank calculated that parents would remove around 40,000 children from paying schools. These would then enter the UK’s state system, costing the taxpayer another £300 million (€350 million) annually.

The IFS also warned that the proposed tax raid could encourage tax avoidance as schools and families looked for loopholes that would enable them to cut bills.

Big surprise

IGNACIO GUTIERREZ­ORRANTIA will not, after all, be moving to the Spanish gas and electricity company, Naturgy.

Gutierrez ­ Orrantia has informed Citigroup that he plans to remain at the bank in his current role as the Londonbased head of the Banking, Capital Markets and Advisory Division for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Gutierriez­Orrantias’s decision, announced by Bloomburg on July 11, was met with generalised surprise as his move to Naturgy as chief executive, where he was to have shared executive powers with company president Francisco Reynes, was regarded as a certainty.

Indian buyer

INDIAN businessman Kabir Mulchandani is buying Pacha nightclubs and hotels through his Five company. The nightlife and tourism group, based in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, will pay a little over €320 million according to reports published in a local news outlet on July 12.

Initially, the Trilantic, GPF and MCH private equity funds, which owned the discos and hotels, had asked for more than €500 million, before accepting a significantly lower amount.

Trilantic, GPF and MCH, which entered Ibiza’s nightlife sector in 2017, are divesting themselves of Pacha after having survived Covid­19 thanks to a bailout using public money.

INDITEX RESULTS: Chairwoman Marta Ortega and the board praise ‘incredible work’.

THAMES WATER: 15 million clients in London and southeast England.

Photo credit: Inditex.com

Photo credit: Thames Water

LONDON - FTSE 100

DOW JONES

Uber fast

WAITROSE has joined forces with Uber Eats in a deal that will deliver grocery orders in just 20 minutes. Available at present for online London shoppers in Finchley Road, West Hampstead, Clerkenwell, St Katharine Docks and Greenwich, the service will extend to more than 200 stores throughout the UK by the end of August.

Selling up

THE US real estate investment firm AEW is putting 22 Carrefour supermarkets up for sale in Spain in an operation expected to top €120 million. The majority are located in Madrid and Catalonia and some, which are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, have an ‘enormous turnover’ according to industry sources.

Petrol still going strong

Linda Hall

CCAR manufacturers Renault and Geely announced a €7 billion joint venture to build engines for hybrid and petrolpowered vehicles, Renault and Chinese firm Geely, which owns Volvo and holds shares in Aston Martin and Mercedes, intend to produce an annual five million internal combustion, hybrid and plug­in hybrid engines and transmissions.

The newly­formed company will focus on becoming the leader in next­generation hybrid and highly efficient powertrain solutions to meet worldwide demand for the

Accentuating technology

KUTXABANK has engaged 94 professionals on permanent contracts, with more appointments expected before the end of the year.

Anton Arriola, chairman of the Bilbaobased bank, announced that more than half of the new employees will be assigned to the group’s network of branches to improve levels of personalised services for customers.

As with earlier recruitment drives, the majority ­ in this case 65 per cent ­ of the new workers are women.

When further staff are taken on later this year, they will have a ‘more technological profile’, the bank explained, to meet digital transformation objectives set out in the government’s Acelera plan.

Breakup

years to come, a Renault statement announced.

The company will supply engines and other components to several global brands, including Volvo, Nissan and Mitsubishi, as well as Renault and Geely’s own vehicles.

The initiative will provide work for around 19,000 people, with 17 factories and five research and development centres located in three continents, would have an expected annual revenue of €15 billion, according to a Reuters report in March this year.

The initial organisation will establish two operational centres in charge of the respective operations, with Renault based in Madrid and Geely in Hangzhou Bay on the East China Sea.

An executive team will be based at the new company’s headquarters which Renault revealed would, in principle, be located in the UK in order to consolidate operations and define future plans.

BRITISH defence group Cobham’s fragmentation continued as its US private equity owners sold the company’s Aerospace Communications division to French firm Thales in a £850 million (€993.25 million) deal. The Paris­based company, which has been part of the Cobham group since 1989, makes aircraft antennas and communication systems and expects revenues of £154 million (€180 million) this year.

Charged up

ANFAC, Spain’s vehicle manufacturers’ association, is working on proposals to improve the Moves III subsidies plan introduced to boost electric car purchase. It was a great programme, Anfac said, but because it was “enormously complex,” the association was contacting political parties in hopes of introducing a “much more efficient substitute” when Moves III ends on December 2023.

RENAULT CHAIRMAN: Luca de Meo announced €7 billion joint venture with Geely.

Photo credit: Renault Group

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

THOUSANDS of black Christian men women and children are still being slaughtered and enslaved in Nigeria. Black genocide is still a daily occurrence in many parts of the world and even in the UK black youngsters are being killed on the streets in ever increasing numbers. All in all it is an appalling and utterly tragic situation.

But why are we seeing no demonstrations concerning these issues? Where are all the marchers and protesters? What’s happened to all the black leaders appearing in the media, decrying the situation and urging government to ‘do something’?

Personally I only discovered most of these facts with research. So can anyone please enlighten me why it is that black lives only appear to really matter when members of the white community are involved? It simply doesn’t make sense; is there is some ulterior motive afoot? Ah well, only time and tide will answer that question.

Personally of course I have watched the whole situation deterio­

It’s got worse

rate almost from the beginning, certainly in London. During the1950s with the influx of Windrush immigrants into the Bayswater area, where I resided, Rackman was renting large numbers of run down Victorian houses to these early immigrants.

Never the less, we all seemed to be enjoying the diversity and I even witnessed the early beginnings of the Notting Hill carnival. In the back of my little Portobello shop, I also had quite a merry fling with a bouncy happy faced lady from Nigeria ­ but we won’t get into that!

What is more worrying is the fact that some years later, after I had achieved some recording success, I decided to take a taxi and peruse some of my old Bayswater happy hunting haunts. To my amazement the taxi driver utterly refused to even drive down my chosen road.

Somewhat puzzled but still undeterred, I subsequently decided to walk down and visit one of my past favourite pubs; an establishment I had on many an occasion enjoyed

with an interesting mixture of the new immigrants and locals. Gazing around, with a warm feeling of déjà vu, I observed the whole pub was now in fact completely dominated by black clientele. You could also cut through the haze of marihuana with a knife. As I began to make my way to the bar a number of heads began to turn in my direction. Slowly and almost unbelievably the whole room began to sink into an extremely ominous silence. Not even getting close to the bar, I definitely had no choice but to turn towards one of the handy side doors and leave as quickly and carefully as I could. Not exactly the wonderful diversity the media keeps trying to brainwash us with was it? Nothing’s changed; it’s actually got worse. And a few of the readers have the audacity to call this ol boy a racist? Give me a break.

Keep

BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU WRITE OUR VIEW

THE hysteria on social media following the allegations that an unnamed BBC presenter had behaved improperly with a person apparently aged 17 saw the worst of some people reflected in their posts.

Immediately, there were a flood of ‘suggestions’ of who that person could be and suddenly BBC presenters including Ryland, Jeremy Vine, Nicky Campbell and Graham Norton were being wrongly ‘named and shamed’ by ignorant members of the public. The word ignorant has several meanings but ill­informed and rude are probably those which are closest to the truth about those naming names

They were ignorant for two reasons, firstly because they were simply speculating and had no knowledge and secondly because they don’t understand the fact they lay themselves open to civil lawsuits whereby they could end up bankrupt.

Once something is published (and this is true for social media and websites as well as in the press), any wrong and malicious statement could be argued in a court of law to be either libel or defamatory.

As the world changes, so more celebrities are turning to the law to sue those maligning them and some large sums have been won by those taking such action.

We at Euro Weekly News made sure that we didn’t join the ‘feeding frenzy’ and didn’t suggest any names until the wife of Huw Edwards confirmed it was him.

This is clearly responsible reporting and we ensure that any comments on our website are checked by a human being before being posted to ensure that no libel, profanity or even hurtful statement appears.

Be careful what comments you put on Facebook or similar, because it’s now open war against the trolls.

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

DAVID WORBOYS THINKING ALOUD

IN the days when a gay was known as a ‘poof’ (or a ‘Nancyboy’) and a psychiatric institution as the ‘looney­bin’ (or the ‘nuthouse’), there was not much political correctness. There would seem to have been little respect for those of us categorised as ‘different’ from the majority.

Minorities of all persuasions suffered abuse and were the subject of jokes, many of them in bad taste ­ and often cruel. The problem was that to most of us they (the jokes) were funny. And so they remained part of our culture.

We joked harmlessly about women drivers, mothers­in­law, fat people and toffs, but less innocently about black people, Jews, gays and those with physical or mental disabilities. Regrettably, beyond the jokes there was an element who really hated or despised these minorities ­ or anyone who was ‘different’.

IN DAYS OF OLD

The attitude to those with an intellectual disability or mental health issues (formerly ‘crackpots’) has advanced over the centuries. In the middle ages they were often caged and displayed in public if their antics were considered suitable for ‘entertainment’. Otherwise they might be confined, abused or even quietly exterminated.

By the 19th century supervised asylums were introduced, many of them with padded cells, which

quickly became overcrowded. There was little attempt to understand the cause of the condition or propose any kind of treatment.

Nowadays, things are very different. Various forms of psychotherapy and medication are available and administered in accordance with the needs of the patient who, in a majority of cases, is cared for and respected.

The more refined word for the ‘loo’ was the ‘lavatory’, rarely

used now. Amusing but inaccurate alternatives were the ‘bog’ or the ‘thunderbox’. Today’s ‘bathroom’ is equally inaccurate unless the loo is accompanied by a bathor, at least, a shower. It is a ‘restroom’ only if it contains a bed or a sofa.

Such euphemisms suggest embarrassment at the most natural of bodily rituals. I overheard this gem at a party in 1956: “I’m gaying to powder my nose.” “Well, make sure you pull the chain.”

In less conscientious times, an attractive woman was known, among dozens of other appreciative (but unwanted) labels, as a ‘nice bit of fluff’. If she were also ‘adventurous’, she would be known as a ‘floozie’. Not so bad, when you consider that nowadays the derogatory term of ‘airhead’ seems to be acceptable. There were also colourful words for parts of the body, bodily functions and sexual activity, most of them amusing but some of them crude. Many of these have become as obsolete as the first Motorola phones. Less offensive terms included ‘poker’, ‘honeypot’, ‘golden gate’ and ‘shafting’.

Political correctness does pave the way to enlightened tolerance. We are all connected and should understand each other. It’s unfortunate that PC has gone so far over the top it is mocked. Unless illegal it is rarely taken seriously.

Sun, sea, sand & civil war

turbulent few years with most of the country ravaged by civil war,” one UK­based company specialising in tours to “difficult” countries, disingenuously admits on its website brochure.

IT has sun, sea and a wealth of historical remains. It is also fighting wars on multiple fronts, with regime opponents regularly be ing rounded up for torture and imprisonment — but that hasn’t deterred the first wave of tourists to book holidays in Syria since the pandemic.

The authorities in Damascus have begun issuing tourist visas again, which were in theory available throughout the decadelong civil war but were stopped during the pandemic.

Travel companies across Europe have organised tours emphasising the country’s cultural heritage, while also stressing that they’re not conventional package holidays. “Syria has endured a

Nonetheless, the tour operator’s taking participants (paying £1,500+ for the week’s visit) to Damascus, the second city Aleppo, recently divided between government and rebel forces, and the classical site of Palmyra, once occupied by Islamic State. The first tours were at the time of writing all fully booked, although “the Foreign Office advises against all travel to Syria,” according to its official guidance.

So where will you be spending the Summer? I’d rather stay here in Spain…

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

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

We used to joke about women drivers and fat people but that was in a less sensitive and less enlightened age.

Photo credits: David Worboys and TheConversation.com

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

NORA’S LATEST THRILLER.

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

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

In response LETTERS

I refer to Tony North’s letter. My apologies; it was an editing slip on my part.

I missed out the word WESTERN (Europe).

None of the countries listed by Tony North is in Western Europe (apart from the UK).

I agree it is misleading, so thanks for bringing this to my attention. My apologies to you and all the other readers for this. However, you may have noticed that my name was misspelt it is Worboys, not Worboy.

David Worboys

In favour

Morning Leapy,

I have just read your latest piece and particularly like the bit about the idea of having separate areas in London for blacks and whites.

I personally think that is a great idea and would be all in favour of it being put into place, as it could be the way to solving a lot of problems.

I seem to remember that many years ago this did actually happen in a country somewhere, and as far as I know it worked perfectly well. Not sure if it still is in operation or not.

I think in that country it was the whites that put it in place, but I get from the sound of it its the blacks who are wanting to put it in place in London.

Anyway look forward to reading more next week.

Jacob

Passenger habits

I used to fly from Frankfurt to Malaga in the 70s.

Often there was a round of applause on touchdown.

I assumed that, rather than relief at survival, it was celebration of deliverance into the sunshine.

David Worboys

Traffic cops

You lose points from your driving licence in Spain as a penalty, you only gain them for experience and training (if you commit certain offences you can take a specific driving course and win some lost points back). A new driver starts with eight points, which, if they don’t commit any offences, goes up to 12 as you pass the three year mark. Then, if you continue without any infractions for three more years, you gain another two points = 15, which is the most you can hold.

Concha

Confusing signs

Yes, agreed for those junctions where there is a sign, a line, and the white wording on the road. But when turning left from a main road, often via a slip lane… yes a line in the road…

...yes a stop wording in the road, but no stop sign, on the (absent) post, arguably needed to authenticate the legal requirement.

So many of these particular turnings, cause confusion, rights of way inconsistencies and so many drivers just not stopping at all. So, come on... what IS the legal requirement ?

Beiderbeck

Chelsea move

Bravo Aaron, you are the first honest British writer who is telling the truth about our Moroccan star Ziyech, and I quote “his confidence has taken a beaten since joining Chelsea being shunned by several managers over the years.”

Too many British newspapers are blaming Ziyech. While it’s the favouritism that’s taking place in Chelsea and football generally. I would advise any Moroccan football star to stay away from English football.

Destroyed Boufal, Chamakh before and Ziyech now … what a trap.

Mourad Oumouh

Hot wind

Last night here in Sax, Alicante, we had a gale for about an hour. I managed to record a wind temperature of 38.6ºC. No damage here but it did do some damage nearer Alicante. I can’t remember feeling that hot a wind before.

Mike Curtis

Bull runs

I totally agree. I can’t sleep during these festivals as I’m so worried about the mistreatment of the bulls.

I wish to join a group to help stop these.

Catherine Kerr

The truth

Hi Lee

I’ve just read your piece headlined ‘British Media’ and was shocked to read it, because I’ve at last found someone who’s got the balls to spell out the truth with what’s going on in the UK.

I used to love England but we have been betrayed by politicians who have lied to us along with the MSM and have decided to come and live in Spain where we feel safer and just wished I had done it earlier because the country is quickly going downhill and anarchy is just round the corner.

Thank you for spreading the truth with what’s going on because there’s not many out there that are willing to do that and it’s really sad to see that the UK’s now fallen.

Regards ,

Andy Walsh

PETS

A house-sitter relaxes your pet

YOU may be planning a trip 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. And what’s more our house­sitters are for free!

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

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

1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSit Match.com

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

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

4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose.

Therapeutic companions

Caring for pets in their own home means they are more relaxed.

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 house-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting can be a win-win for both parties, free house and pet-sitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation!

Register as either house-sitter or homeowner with a 20% discount using coupon code 20EWN – Reader exclusive offer.

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

SAY ‘hola’ to Spain’s burgeoning pet­friendly hotel scene. For those of us who consider our pets family, vacationing without them seems incomplete. Thankfully, Spain’s hospitality industry is evolving, ensuring our four­legged family members are welcomed and well­accommodated.

From bustling city centres to tranquil beach resorts, an in­

Friendly retreats

creasing number of Spanish hotels are extending their hospitality to pets. They offer a range of pet­friendly amenities, ensuring both you and your furry friend enjoy a comfortable stay. These pet­friendly accommodations typically offer spacious rooms with easy

outdoor access for walks and playtime. Many provide pet beds, feeding bowls, and even a welcome pack of treats to make your pet feel at home.

Some establishments go the extra mile with dedicated pet play zones, grooming services, and special pet menus. One traveller said: “It’s amazing to find places where my furry companion is treated with the same care and respect as any other guest.” Before booking, it’s crucial to check each hotel’s pet policy as size limitations and extra charges may apply.

Also, consider the surrounding area for pet­friendly activities such as parks or trails for walks.

DID you know your lovable fur­ball at home could double up as a healer? Yes, our four­legged friends are making headlines, not just for their Instagram­worthy antics, but also for their powerful therapeutic abilities.

Just imagine, you’ve had a tough day, and when you get home, there’s that wagging tail and those trusting eyes. Right away, it feels like your burdens lighten a little.

Research shows that hanging out with pets can lessen anxiety, lower blood pressure, and can even help us bounce back from surgery faster. Many schools and hospitals are catching onto this. They’ve been inviting volunteers with their pets for ‘pet therapy’. These pets aren’t your regular housetrained sweethearts. They’ve gone through special training to be patient, friendly and comforting in various settings. Max is a therapy dog

THERAPY

Can be great for your mental health.

who works in a hospital. Every Thursday, he’s there in the paediatric ward, working his magic. His handler, Lisa Taylor, said, “It’s nothing short of incredible. Kids just light up when they see Max, and the ripple of that joy spreads to parents and staff. The whole place feels differ­

ent.” The very presence of these furry companions sparks social connections, which is great for mental health. So next time you’re scrolling through pet videos online, remember they are more than just cute; they could be your next therapy session.

Pet passport

TRAVELLING with pets through Spain has become smoother and simpler, as the nation evolves its regulations and facilities to accommodate animal passengers.

Taking your pet on a road trip through Spain? Not a problem. More and more roadside hotels are now pet ­ friendly. Taking a flight? Airlines are upping their pet­friendly game too. Ferries are joining in, with many now providing specific cabins for families travelling with pets. Before you start

packing those doggie bags, remember that Spain, as a part of the EU, mandates a pet passport for each travelling pet. This passport verifies that your pet is microchipped and vaccinated against rabies,

ensuring your dog’s smooth entry and exit. One traveller and pet owner, shared her experience, “Taking my lab, Molly, along on our family holiday was a breeze. From rest stops to accommodations, Spain has truly become a pet­inclusive nation.” Local transport services aren’t far behind.

A pet passport is essential for travelling.

Many public buses and trains now allow small pets in carriers, and some even allow leashed dogs during off ­ peak hours. Travelling through Spain with your pets no longer means compromise or hassle. It’s about sharing the joys of discovery, culture, and cuisine with your loyal companion.

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MEETING POINT

RORY MCILROY won the Genesis Scottish Open played at Gullane Golf Club on Sunday, July 16, to notch his first­ever victory in Scotland.

A stunning sequence of play on the two final holes saw the Northern Irishman steal an incredible victory out of the hands of Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre.

The 26­year­old Scot went into the par­3 17th hole on his home major one shot ahead of his opponent. However, McIlroy suddenly produced a shot of near perfection to leave his ball just four feet from the pin. His resulting putt left the two players tied as they headed into the final hole.

With what he later called his best shot of the year, the man from County Down landed another shot only 10 feet from the pin with his 2iron. The resulting par saw him finish with a round of 68 and 2­under, to wrap up a stunning win.

Scotland’s notorious weather had not helped either player as they made their way around the course located on the Firth of Forth with the 20 mph wind blowing relentlessly.

MacIntyre appeared to be heading for a first PGA Tour win and a famous victory on home soil. Instead, it was 34­year­old McIlroy who finished the back nine in 31 to claim his first major tournament win since the Dubai Desert Classic in January. His timing could not be better with the final major of the season beckon­

ing as he tries to end nine years without a win in any of the majors. The players will be battling for the famous claret jug at the 151st British Open when it kicks off today, Thursday July 20 at Royal Liverpool for the first time since 2014. McIlroy was victorious at Hoylake on that occasion.

Aston Villa sign Torres

VILLARREAL centre­back Pau Torres has completed a move to Aston Villa.

The Spanish international will link up with his former La Liga manager Unai Emery at Villa Park. Fabrizio Romano, the respected football transfer expert once again had his finger on the pulse.

He tweeted: ‘Official, confirmed. Pau Torres joins Aston Villa on permanent deal from Villarreal for €32.5m fee plus €5m add ons. #AVFC Sealed and completed’. The Premier League club announced the new arrival: “Aston Villa is delighted to announce the signing of Spanish international Pau Torres from Villarreal!”

Villa’s 26­year­old signing took to Twitter on Thursday, July 13, writing: “First day @avfcofficial Villans, I’m here! Thrilled to begin this exciting new chapter #UTV.”

Torres had been with Villarreal since signing as a youth. He made his full La Liga debut on November 26, 2017, in a 2­3 home defeat at the Estadio de la Cerámica by Sevilla.

Ten days later, he found himself playing in a European competition for the first time in a UEFA Europa League group match with Israel’s Maccabi Tel Aviv. Once again he found himself on the wrong end of a 0­1 scoreline at home.

Things didn’t go so well for Torres at the beginning and on August 6, 2018, he was loaned out to Malaga CF in Spain’s Segunda Division for 12 months. He helped the Costa del Sol side to the promotion playoff places before rejoining his parent club.

This time around Torres quickly solidified his place in the Villarreal first­team and never missed one match all season in 2019.

The La Liga side reached the final of the Europa League on May 26, 2023, where they eventually beat Manchester United on penalties, with Torres at the heart of Villarreal’s defence.

On October 4, 2019, Roberto Moreno called Torres up to the men’s UEFA Euro 2020 national squad. The team was preparing for qualifiers against Norway and Sweden. However, he didn’t see any action until November 15 when he scored on his debut in a 7­0 victory over Malta.

Alcaraz wins Wimbledon final Tour de France triumph

SPANISH cycling fans can rejoice as one of their countrymen has ended a five ­ year drought by winning a stage in the Tour de France.

Tuesday, July 11, saw Spanish rider Pello Bilbao Lopez, riding for the Bahrain Victorious team, win the 167 ­ kilometre stage 10 of the Tour de France, something that fans had had to wait a long time for.

The last Spaniard to win a stage was back in 2018 when Omar Fraile took the honours, 99 stages later and Bilbao has finally given fans something to cheer.

This year’s Tour started in Bilbao in the Basque Country, and namesake Pello was the star of the Grand Départ, getting an extra loud cheer when his name was announced.

On July 11 he repaid the favour many times over by claiming his first ever Tour de France victory in Issoire.

The 33 ­ year ­ old rider from Guernica outsprinted Georg Zimmermann and British rider, Ben O’Connor, to clinch victory.

In the final 3km of this stage, a small group of riders had broken away. Bilbao takes up the story: “I knew I was the fastest man. With cold blood I let Zimmermann do his attack… and I sprinted without thinking of anything. I went with everything I had, with all energy I had, remembering the reason I was riding ­ for Gino.”

Pello’s teammate Gino Mader was tragically killed in last month’s Tour de Suisse, something which no doubt inspired him on the day.

This win sees Bilbao lying in fifth place in the general classification, over four and a half minutes behind Yellow Jersey Jonas Vingegaard.

There are three British riders in the top 10 overall standings, Adam Yates, Simon Yates and Yorkshireman, Tom Pidcock.

CARLOS ALCARAZ is the new king of Wimbledon after completing a stunning five ­ set victory over Novak Djokovic on Sunday, July 16.

The young Spaniard took revenge for the defeat inflicted on him by the Serb in their last encounter in the French Open semi ­ final at Roland Garros.

Following that loss, the Murcian admitted that nerves had got the better of him, but on today’s showing, he had well and truly psyched himself up for the challenge.

An epic five ­ set thriller saw Djokovic lose his head with the scores level as they entered the final set. Alcaraz broke the legendary player’s serve which resulted in the usually so level ­ headed 36 ­ year ­ old Serb receiving an umpire’s warning after smashing his racket against the net’s post, leaving a dent.

Djokovic was seeking a recordequalling eighth title on the All England Club’s famous Centre Court on Sunday afternoon. He was also aiming to equal the Australian women’s tennis star Margaret Court’s all ­ time record of 24 Major singles titles.

After winning the first set with

ease at 6 ­ 1, it looked like a no­ contest, and he was well on the way to continuing his 46 ­ match winning streak at SW16 that has lasted an incredible 10 years.

However, Alcaraz fought back in dramatic fashion to finally win 1 ­ 6 7 ­ 6 6 ­ 1 3 ­ 6 6 ­ 4 in an astounding comeback. With the crowd firmly on his side, he played some tennis that was truly outstanding.

Umpire Fergus Murphy Djokovic eventually handed Djokovic a time violation for delaying his serves, which was met with great joy by the fans.

The US Open champion also ended Djokovic’s run of 15 consecutive Grand Slam tie ­ break wins. Then came an unbelievable game in the third set that lasted a full 26 minutes. Finally breaking the reigning champion’s serve, it included 13 deuces.

The new Wimbledon champion played under the watchful eye of Spain’s King Felipe VI, with his press office issuing a statement prior to the match.

Alcaraz was presented with the iconic trophy by the Princess of Wales.

Credit: Image of golfer Rory McIlroy./Creative Commons Attribution

STUNNING VICTORY: Carlos Alcaraz winning Wimbledon 2023.

McIlroy wins Scottish Open