Costa Calida 10 – 16 August 2023 Issue 1988

Issue No. 20 (1988) 10 - 16 August 2023

COSTA CALIDA • EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM

SUMMER TOURISM SOARS

THE tourism industry in Costa Cálida in Spain is witnessing a strong revival, with July recording an impressive 80% tourist occupancy rate, marking a 4% increase compared to the previous year. This resurgence comes as a breath of fresh air, considering some headlines had suggested a decline in tourism trade in Spain.

Leading the charge was the La Manga region, boasting an outstanding 10point increase and reaching an impressive 84% occupancy rate. Campsites, both coastal and inland, contributed to the positive trend. Coastal campsites registered an eight ­ point increase. Contrary to the perceived decline, data released by Turespaña suggests a robust outlook for Spanish tourism. August, Spain's busiest month for tourism, is expected to break records, with over 11.4 million seat bookings on international flights – an 8.7% increase from the previous year. The figures almost match those of the prepandemic August 2019.

The Minister of Industry, Trade, and Tourism, Héctor Gómez, hailed the excellent booking figures as evidence

OVER the past few weeks

1,100 enthusiastic young individuals from various corners of the world made their way through San Pedro del Pinatar. Their destination? The much ­ anticipated World Youth Day (WYD), a significant global event which was held in

that the tourism sector remains a key driver of Spain's economy. Countries like Colombia, Poland, and Portugal demonstrated strong performance in terms of seat bookings to Spain, and

even the United States showed significant year­on­year growth. The United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy remain the top three countries contributing to Spain's booming tourism market.

Global Pilgrimage

Lisbon from August 1 to 6.

The Town Council of San Pedro del Pinatar along with the local parish extended a warm welcome to

the visitors.

More than 200 residents also journeyed on their own pilgrimage to the vibrant Portuguese capital, Lisbon for WYD where Pope Francis was in atten­

PATH PLUNGE

AS temperatures soar in the Region of Murcia, some residents are seeking creative ways to beat the heat! However, one man's attempt to stay cool ended up causing quite a stir in the town of La Unión. The local police recently opened two disciplinary proceedings against a resident for setting up a swimming pool in the middle of a public road, right in front

of his home.

The unconventional move was met with complaints from the community, as the presence of the pool hindered road traffic, creating a potential safety hazard for drivers and pedestrians alike.

Following the intervention of local authorities, the pool was swiftly dismantled and removed from its unauthorised location.

dance and the attendees could join him from the welcome ceremony in Eduardo VII Park to the Stations of the Cross and the Sunday Mass in Parque Tejo.

Image: Shutterstock/

Photos

BrianScantlebury

Image: Facebook/San Pedro del Pinatar Town Hall

FREE • GRATIS

Spanish Tourism Growth: record-breaking data.

Journeying Together to World Youth Day in Lisbon

Forest fire feat

DURING this scorching summer, the City Council's Forestry Brigades have proven to be a vital force in preventing wildfires. With more than fifty personnel dedicated to safeguarding 2,300 hectares of land, their efforts have paid off, as the region experienced just one forest fire. The recent incident occurred at the Javalí Viejo gunpowder factory, where over 3,000 square meters of scrubland and trees were engulfed in flames. Thanks to the swift response of the highly specialised troops, the fire was brought under control in little more than an hour.

The team is made up of ten Local Police officers, 38 firefighters, their fleet of vehicles, and four Civil Protection volunteers, this dedicated fire­fighting team works intensively during the summer months, when temperatures soar, and the risk of forest fires escalates. To enhance their capabilities, the team has incorporated state­of­the­art technology, including a cutting­edge drone. They have ramped up surveillance in areas of dense tree mass adding an extra layer of protection. Thanks to the relentless efforts of Murcia's Forestry Brigades and the use of Modern Tech ensure a safe summer for the region.

THE demand for Covid­19 tests in Spain witnessed a remarkable upswing in the last week of July, according to an analysis. The sales of tests for detecting Covid­19 surged by an impressive 44% in the Region of Murcia, between July 24 to 31, compared to the end of June. Nationally, the growth

Perilous plunge

ON Tuesday, August 2, a daring incident unfolded in Murcia, which garnered on social media. Three young men decided to jump into the Segura River from the historic Puente de Hierro, or Iron Bridge. The reckless act was recorded by several onlookers and quickly spread across social networks.

Police confirmed that they were later identified and apprehended. They escaped arrest, as

The ‘C’ Word

in sales was even more staggering, with a 112% increase in sales of antigen tests.

What has caused this recent boost in sales? Well according to data from the

Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there seems to be a noticeable increase in cases during this summer, as indicated by emergency department diagnoses ticking up. Howev­

their dangerous behaviour, though alarming, did not constitute

er, experts caution against calling it a ‘comeback’ as the situation is not comparable to previous surges. Due to preexisting immunity and the virus's evolutionary changes, most cases are expected to be mild, with some individuals not even realising they have contracted Covid­19.

a punishable offense. While this particular incident ended without any immediate consequences, it serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with such actions. Tragically, back in 2013, a young man lost his life in similar circumstances during the SOS

4.8 festival at the La Fica site in Murcia.

Authorities urge

young individuals to exercise caution and responsibility when seeking thrills, especially in potentially hazardous environments. Engaging in impulsive behaviour can have devastating consequences, and it is crucial to prioritise safety and make informed decisions while enjoying recreational activities.

Image: Wikipedia/ Gregorico

Three youths take a daring plunge from Murcia's iconic Iron Bridge

NIBS EXTRA

Child saved

A TEN year old child was rescued from the waters of Poniente Beach in Águilas on Sunday, August 7. Found semi­conscious, the child received vital oxygen therapy as they awaited medical aid. The Emergency Coordination Centre was alerted at 7 pm who requested an ambulance. The child was transferred to Rafael Méndez Hospital for treatment.

Swimmer tragedy

TRAGEDY struck La Azohía as a 70­year­old swimmer lost his life on Sunday, August 6. Found unconscious in the water, the man displayed clear signs of drowning. Despite swift efforts by Civil Protection and medical personnel from 061 he could not be revived. The incident occurred around 1 pm.

Christ’s Door

STUDENTS at Lorca's Carpentry Workshop, guided by specialists Antonio García and Alfonso Salas, have crafted a new door for the bullring chapel. Depicting Christ's life stages, the door showcases scenes from birth to resurrection. The door weighs over 200 kilos and underwent collaborative clay modelling before production.

Hold the front page

EURO WEEKLY NEWS is thrilled to announce that our newspaper and website will feature in a TV programme to be filmed in Benidorm.

Hold the Front Page is a programme following two of the UK’s favourite comedians, Josh Widdicombe and Nish Kumar, as they embark on a journey as trainee local journalists attempting to get a story on the front page. Now they are coming to Spain for their training.

Josh and Nick are coming to Benidorm to receive editorial tasks from managing

director Michel Euesden, who is the driving force behind Spain's biggest free English language newspaper group. They will then be accompanied on a sales drive to see what they can achieve in the world of fastpaced journalism.

Exploring some incredible regions through their local papers, the series is a warm celebration of the world of local journalism besides the people and communities the papers serve.

Being a people’s paper, Euro Weekly News is looking for a charity or commu­

nity group who would like to be featured in the programme. Please contact us to tell us about your needs.

The series is broadcast on Sky Max, a flagship channel in the UK and Ireland, and can be enjoyed on demand on Now TV too.

Series one of the Sky Original show was watched nearly two million times.

Josh and Nish also have a strong and engaged social following of their own on Instagram and Twitter, through which they promote the programme to their combined audience of

YOUR EWN HAS

1.6 million.

CPL Productions, a Red Arrow Studios company, is one of the most successful TV, radio and podcast production companies in the UK. The company creates and produces engaging, modern entertainment, factual formats and scripted television.

From primetime entertainment to comedy, drama and factual entertainment, CPL’s impressive roster of shows feature some of the UK’s best talent for broadcasters including Netflix, Sky, BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and E4.

Resilient Murcia Unmissable spectacle

THE Region of Murcia has shown resilience in the property market, as it recorded the lowest decline in the sale and purchase of homes compared to other regions in Spain. While the property market experienced a drop in operations and mortgage loans, the average home price remained stable over the past year.

In June, the number of property sales in the Region fell by 2.9% year ­ on ­ year, significantly lower than the national average of 14.5% decline.

Despite the slowdown in the property market, the average price of homes sold in the Region of Murcia remained steady with only a 0.6% variation over the last twelve months. In contrast, the average price of homes in Spain decreased by 2.6%.

The data also revealed that apartments were preferred over detached houses in the Region of Murcia, as the majority of transactions were for apartments.

On another note, the Region of Murcia saw an increase in the incorporation of new companies, growing by 23.2% in June compared to the previous year.

MARK your calendars for the highly anticipated Noches de Sal, set to take place in Cartagena from August 18 to 26. This spectacular event promises a week filled with unforgettable experiences at the Paco Martín Auditorium in Parque Torres. Prepare to be enthralled by a diverse lineup of talented artists gracing the stage. On August 18, the renowned Niña Pastori will captivate the audience with her soulful voice. On the 19th, the hilarious Luis Piedrahita will entertain the crowd.

STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Fishy find

On August 20 the dazzling performance of Hola Raffaella will take place.

As the week continues, on August 24, the captivating Pastora Soler will showcase her vocal prowess, while on the 25th, a special tribute to +dMANÁ promises an electrifying evening. And finally, on August 26, the talented María Peláe will perform. The concerts are scheduled to start at 10.30 pm, For more information see the official website or visit Tankarworld at Calle San Fernando, 36, Cartagena.

THE Guardia Civil recently cracked down on illegal fishing activities, catching two bluefin tuna poachers off the coast of El Gorguel. A patrol boat from the Benémerita Maritime Service intercepted the suspects as they approached the shore in an inflatable boat. Upon inspection, the officers discovered a concealed catch weighing approximately 70 kilos, hidden under a blanket. Both suspects presented inconsistent versions of events, leading the Civil Guards to suspect foul play. Moreover, the capture of bluefin tuna is currently prohibited, prompting the authorities to file charges.

The confiscated bluefin tuna, already deceased and gutted, along with fishing equipment like a professional rod, reel, and buoy floats, were seized by the agents. After confirming it was safe for consumption, the fish was generously donated to a soup kitchen in Cartagena.

Tourist Police

THE Murcia Tourist Police are making a triumphant return to action at the upcoming Feria, and this time, they will be sticking around. This dedicated team of ten officers is equipped with language skills to cater to the needs of cruise passengers, visitors, and tourist guides, all aimed at maintaining a safe environment. Originally established five years ago, the Tourist Police unit was a vital force in addressing nearly 300 incidents annually. They played a pivotal role in safeguarding the interests of official tourist guides and ensuring that tourists could explore the city in a friendly and secure atmosphere.

Sub­Inspector José Martínez, a member of the Tourist Police, expressed their preparedness to provide insights into Murcia's attractions and offer advice on public safety. Beyond linguistic proficiency, these officers are well­versed in the city's unique characteristics.

Fulgencio Perona, the mayor of Public Safety, emphasised that the unit's purpose remains unwavering – to ensure the safety of tourists and guides. The officers will be available based on the demands of tourist companies, and their itineraries will align with popular destinations.

SIMPLY RED, led by Mick Hucknall, performed a concert at Plaza de Toros in Murcia on August 5 with an impressive lineup and even a horn arrangement that received a standing ovation. The concert showcased their greatest hits

IN the early hours on August 4, the Emergency Coordination Centre 1 ­ 1 ­ 2 Region of Murcia received a distress call regarding a fire at a warehouse in the hamlet of La Pinilla, Fuente Alamo. A team including Fuente Alamo Local Police and firefighters from the Fire and Rescue Consortium of the Region of Murcia (CEIS) rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, the Fuente Alamo Local Police confirmed that the warehouse, which was primarily used for storing rosemary and thyme, had been completely engulfed by the fire. Efforts to extinguish the flames continued throughout the night, with CEIS firefighters tirelessly working to prevent its spread to nearby areas.

Simply stars

and created nostalgic moments for the audience. Mick Hucknall's powerful vocals and stage presence mes­

Absence makes the heart grow fonder

: Being away from someone or something for a period of time makes you appreciate that person of thing more when you see them or it again.

Flaming herbs

Smoke-free pools

Thankfully, the firefighting team has managed to contain the fire within the premises of the warehouse, an area of approximately 500 square meters, which has already been reduced to

pop and blue­eyed soul from their early years like 'Your Mirror,' 'Something Got Me Started,' 'Holding Back the Years,' and 'Stars' transported the audience back in time. The band also delivered outstanding renditions of songs by other artists. The event closed on an emotional note with the song ‘If You Don't Know Me By Now.’ Overall, the concert was a delightful trip down memory lane, reaffirming Simply Red's enduring appeal.

ashes. However, the CEIS firefighters stayed on­site, to make sure the fire was entirely extinguished. Authorities are conducting investigations to determine the cause of the fire.

Simply Red: A Timeless Reunion of Hits and Memories

732 movie theatres in Spain

THE City Council of Murcia is taking proactive steps towards promoting healthier and smokefree environments, particularly in public spaces that see high footfall during the summer season. As part of a pilot program, four popular swimming pools in the region, namely Alquerías, Corvera, Murcia Parque, and Sangonera la Seca, are being designated as 'smoke­free spaces'. The initiative is rooted in a desire to discourage smoking among minors, delay the onset of smoking among youth, and cultivate an atmosphere of well ­ being. The plan involves allocating small, clearly marked smoking areas away from zones frequented by children, adolescents, and the elderly. Additionally, parks and gardens are also part of this initiative, with the Malecón and Salitre being the first to implement smoking zones, along with the José Barnés, La Vega, and Infante Juan Manuel sports centres. This progressive move aligns with Murcia's dedication to its recognition as a Child Friendly City by UNICEF.

Fire burns rosemary and thyme warehouse to the ground.

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

Water revolution

MURCIA is set to take a major step towards becoming one of the most environmentally friendly cities in terms of water usage. The Murcia City Council is about to begin an innovative pilot project focused on sustainable urban drainage as part of the European initiative, CARDIMED (Climate Adaptation and Resilience Demonstrated in the Mediterranean Region).

Teaming up with Emuasa, the Consistory of Murcia aims to study and implement various sustainable urban drainage techniques inspired by nature. These techniques will subsequently be replicated across public spaces in the region. The

project falls under the broader goal of enhancing climate resilience in Mediterranean regions.

The city has been chosen to participate in the CARDIMED project, joining forces with a consortium of 49 partners from diverse Mediterranean countries and other European nations.

The endeavour, led by the Polytechnic University of Athens, is scheduled to run for 54 months, commencing in September and concluding in February 2028. It has a substantial budget of over €21 million, of which the European Commission contributes nearly 20 million euros.

A FRESH addition to Murcia’s September fair is a dedicated space catering to gaming aficionados. Running from September 6 to 10, the interactive extravaganza will unfold on Calle Basabé, adjacent to Julián Romea and Santo Domingo squares, between 8 PM and 11 PM.

The town hall have collaborated with UCAM University who will provide the 'UCAM Cube,' a portable two­story structure with internet connectivity and integrated electrical systems. Housing a PC area with 10 computers and a console area with four gaming stations, it offers a range of commercial games for attendees to enjoy, free of charge.

The star attraction is the

32,688 the population of Gibraltar

Gaming Fair

gaming arena, allowing participants to engage in online and local gameplay, solo or in 5v5 teams. As one session ends, players seamlessly move to the next group, ensuring non­stop excitement.

The 'UCAM Cube' accommodates up to 30 players concurrently.

The game lineup caters to all ages, and the Special Activities area will also feature a Giant Jenga!

Vintage exhibition

STEP back in time with the enchanting exhibition 'Lo Llaman Mar Menor' (They called it Mar Menor), showcasing captivating vintage photographs. It opened on August 4, this exhibition will grace the Lucernario room of the Ibersol Atrio del Mar hotel in Los Alcázares until September 3.

The collection, part of María Manzanera's assortment, unveils over thirty stereoscopic snapshots from the late 1800s and early 1900s. These remarkable images were captured by Luis Federico Guirao Girada (1848­1921), a multi­talented Murcian personality who was a lawyer, politician, and humanist. Experience the beauty of Mar Menor through the lens of history, as you journey into the past through this exhibition.

IN a swift response to an emergency call at 12:20 on August 3, the Emergency Coordination Centre 1­1­2 was alerted to a distressing incident near El Cajer in Abanilla. A 60 ­ year ­ old woman had suffered a painful sprained foot while out for a walk and was left immobilised. The situation was compounded by the woman's unfortunate location, making a conventional rescue effort by land nearly impossible according to the environmental officer in Fortuna. Recognising the urgency, the Direc­

MORROCCO has risen as a key regional import hub for the Region of Murcia, ranking fifth after major European markets like France, Germany, The Netherlands and Italy with imports exceeding €473 million. Over recent years, Morocco's import prominence has grown substantially.

From being sixth in 2019 with 483 million euros, it has surged to fourth place, crossing one billion euros in 2022, according to ICEX data. In

Aerial rescue More moorish

torate General for Public Safety and Emergencies dispatched a rescue helicopter, along with a skilled team from the Consorcio de Extinción de Incendios y Salva ­

mento. The helicopter carried the woman to the Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca for immediate medical attention.

2023's first five months, exports to Morocco from the region increased by 7.7%. Moroccan demand has been keen for items such as sheep and goats, biscuits, vegetable fats or oils like soybean oil, bottled water, non­alcoholic beverages, furniture, toiletries, and various technological equipment including irrigation systems, defence

and military security tools, steel casting, and more have fuelled this growth. Several factors contribute to Morocco's appeal as an import partner such as proximity, maritime connectivity, Europe­Morocco trade agreements, and minimal trade barriers. Addressing trade barriers could further amplify exports.

Image: 112rmurcia.es

Helicopter rescues a hiker due to inaccessible terrain

Cabo de Pop

A VIBRANT music scene is set to come alive in the picturesque setting of Cabo de Palos as the eagerly awaited Cabo de Pop 2023 gears up for its sixth anniversary. From August 18 to 20, music enthusiasts will be treated to performances by stellar acts including Las Ligas Menores, along with DJs Clepto, Pablo, and Albinegro. Yet Cabo de Pop is more than just a music festival. This event promises an array of engaging activities, including environmental initiatives and sports. Participants can register for kayaking, sailing, diving, snorkelling in collaboration with Islas Hormigas Diving Club and Dacar Nautical Activities. Additionally, the festival will feature creative workshops, visits to the iconic Cabo de Palos lighthouse, Environmental consciousness remains a focal point, with talks, workshops, and beach clean­ups.

Housing halt

MAR Menor is set to receive enhanced protection through a new urban planning ban. Recently, the regional government approved a decree law to extend the existing freeze on urban development in the area.

The decision comes in response to the urgency of preventing the environment from being left ‘unprotected’ as the current three ­ year freeze was about to expire.

The ban will remain in effect until the initial approval of the Land Management Plan for the Mar Menor.

The decree law aims to restrict new developments in specified areas. It suspends the granting of authorisations for various projects, including housing and industrial ventures, while excluding solar energy facilities. Additionally, it emphasises the need for sustainability measures and nature ­

based solutions in ongoing projects.

The creation of this urgent decree ­ law by the President of PP in Murcia and the acting president of Murcia Fernando Lopez Miras comes after an extension to the existing moratorium proposed by PSOE was rejected by PP and Vox. Lopez Miras lat ­

er confirmed that the proposal by PSOE contained many technical errors which would have left the Mar Menor unprotected if approved.

Carnival festivities

THE Summer Carnival has once again filled the Paseo Colón in Santiago de la Ribera with rhythm and colour. On Saturday, August 5, at 9 pm, the parade began along the Paseo Colón and Avenida Sandoval and concluding around midnight with the burning of the Caballito de Mar (sea horse).

The parade included a total of 12 dance groups, including eight local groups ­ Los Que Faltaban, Makulele, Yaiza (dance school), Yembé, Olé Olá, Akelarre, Brasilia, and RÍO! along with the winning muse of the Carnival. Additionally, there were four for­

eign dance groups ­ Azahar from El Esparragal, Imagin from Cartagena, Universo from Los Alcázares, and No Ni Ná from Torrevieja.

Susana Sánchez, a member of the Santiago de la Ribera Carnival Commission used this event to highlight ‘the importance of this Summer Carnival to let all those who visited us these days know about our wonderful carnival.’ The Santiago de la Ribera Summer Carnival has been a cherished tradition since its inception in 2011 and as usual locals and tourists filled the streets to enjoy the spectacle.

New Decree Law Enacted to Safeguard Mar Menor

Image: Shutterstock/ David Palao Andres

Image: Facebook/San Javier Town Hall

Santiago de la Ribera's Summer Carnival 2023 Lights Up Paseo Colón

Sal de Música

THE Sal de Música Festival is set to kick off in San Pedro del Pinatar, promising a week of sensational tunes and unforgettable performances. Mark your calendars from August 9 to 15 as the Recinto Ferial transforms into a haven for music enthusiasts. For those eager to secure their spots in advance you can purchase your passes online at www.saldemusica.com, or head to the Centro de Iniciativas Turísticas or Punto de Información Explanada between 8 pm and midnight. You can also swing by the Festejos del Ayun ­

LOS 40 SUMMER LIVE 23 is set to take place in La Manga del Mar Menor, as revealed during its presentation at the town hall of San Javier.

The concert, scheduled for August 20 at 10 pm, will be held at the sports centre area and promises an exciting lineup of artists, including Álvaro de Luna, Vicco, Marlon, Paula Cendejas, Cesar AC, Mar Lucas, and many

Don't miss out on a week of electrifying concerts

tamiento de San Pedro del Pinatar on the third floor. Remember, payment can only be made via credit card. And fear not if you miss the pre­sale window, as ticket offices will be open during the event days at the Recinto Ferial on Avda. Alcalde José María Tárraga. The concerts begin at 10.30 pm and will feature beloved performers such as Monica Naranjo, India Martínez, and Ana Mena.

Summer live

more.

The event will be hosted by JM Duro and Ramsés López well know presenters from Los 40 Principales one of Spain’s top radio stations.

Thanks to the support from the Directorate General of Youth of the Region of Murcia, en ­

trance to the concert is free, making it a not ­ tobe ­ missed opportunity for residents and visitors of La Manga del Mar Menor.

The event aims to add tourist value to the region while offering safe and enjoyable entertainment for young people.

Image: Wikipedia/Monica Naranjo

Bilateral agreement

FOLLOWING Brexit, the British Government has had to discuss the future of overseas training with each EU member and on Wednesday August 2, an agreement between Britian and Spain which had been signed on July 3 came into force.

This is a bilateral agreement on cooperation in matters of education and access to university and other higher education institutions, following close collaboration between Spain’s Ministry of Education and Vocational Training and Ministry of Universities in Spain and the UK Department for Education and Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

The agreement was signed by the British Ambassador to Spain, Hugh Elliott, on behalf of the UK, and the Spanish Minister of Education and Vocational Training, Pilar Alegría, and the Spanish Minister of Universities, Joan Subirats, on

behalf of Spain.

According to the British Embassy in Madrid, this agreement enables students with UK qualifications (including A ­ levels and equivalents) to access universities in Spain without the need for the Spanish general university entrance exam.

Additional entry requirements will only be necessary for certain competitive courses, as was the case prior to the UK’s withdrawal

from the EU.

In addition, students from the Spanish education system can continue to access UK universities and other higher education institutions with additional legal certainty.

The agreement also establishes a framework to increase cooperation between the UK and Spain in the field of education and is symbolic of both countries desire to build on their strong education links.

Ambassador Elliott and Minister Alegria.

Credit: Spanish Ministry of Education

Advertising Feature

Get a quote now

9 OUT 10 CUSTOMERS RECOMMEND US

In a recent survey of our customers after using Línea Directa’s Roadside Assistance and breakdown services, over 90 per cent said they would happily recommend our insurance services to a friend or colleague. Línea Directa would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to answer the ques tions in our survey as it has given us valuable feed back on our services and enabled us to integrate posi tive changes and continue to provide expert solutions for overseas residents in Spain.

ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING IS IN ENGLISH

Car, bike and home insurance, with absolutely everything in English. The emergency and claims hotline is fast and efficient, with quick no obligation quotes over the phone. The customer service team will help you decide on the best policy and there are easy payment options so you can spread the cost of your premiums.

DID YOU KNOW?

All Línea Directa insurance policies offer additional features specifically designed for expatriates living in Spain.

Their home insurance includes Pet Assistance, IT Assistance, and Home Maintenance.

All motorbike policies come with Replacement Motorbike, Technical Equipment cover and even Young

Hot Stuff

Person’s Night-time Assistance. And their car insurance includes helpful services such as Legal Assistance that can provide help when applying for or renewing your driving licence in Spain.

EXPAT2EXPAT REWARD PROGRAMME

When an existing Línea Directa customer recommends a new customer, they both receive €30. Línea Directa’s Expat2Expat programme is free and open to all existing customers. You can recommend up to 10 people and earn up to €300 in cash per year. Simply ask your friend to call 917 002 006 and quote your full name. Then once their application for car, bike or home insurance has been approved, Línea Directa will pay the reward straight into the bank account following payment of next or first premium.

For more information, see terms and conditions at lineadirecta.com.

LOWER THE PRICE OF YOUR INSURANCE

Change to Línea Directa and they will lower the price of your insurance. Línea Directa has been providing comprehensive car, motorbike and home insurance to British expatriates and residents in Spain for over 25 years. With over three million customers nationwide, Línea Directa makes sure you get the best possible price for the kind of insurance you really need.

SOME lucky folk have swimming pools they can dip in and out of and air­con to keep them cool. But for the not­solucky out there, here are a few tips that might help keep you cool during the soaring temperatures.

Most of us keep our curtains and blinds closed on sunny windows to stop the sun from breaking in too much. Lots of houses have shutters but if your windows are shutter­less cardboard can be just as effective.

Though you may be inclined to cool down with a tall glass of iced tea, ice cream or watermelon on a sweltering summer's day, the effect is wonderful but doesn’t last long and before you know it you are back where you started – a little bit too hot under the collar! This is due to your internal temperature. When it is cooled too rapidly your body ends up compensating by raising your temperature and the result is you feel hotter.

Have you ever lay awake at night wondering why some cultures in the hottest locations on earth enjoy hot and spicy foods?

These people have a trick up their sleeves! Spicy foods actually make you sweat and in turn, this helps to cool you down faster. Eating spicy foods works differently as it raises your internal temperature to match the temperature outside.

Some people sweat from the face ­ the lips, forehead, nose, and scalp ­ after eating hot and spicy foods. This causes your blood circulation to increase and you start sweating, once the moisture has evaporated you have cooled off.

Whilst some might not fancy eating hot food on a scorching hot summer day it may be worth it to cool down. What do you think? Will you be rustling up a spicy chilli or vindaloo to see if it works?

If spicy foods aren’t your

thing, try popping your feet into a bowl of ice cubes and water. The shockingly cold temperature will cool you off quickly and reset your body's temperature so you feel comfortable even a few hours later.

The soles of your feet are especially sensitive to temperature changes, so the ice­cold foot bath could be all it takes to cool down.

In the sweltering country of Morocco in North Africa, they battle the midday heat by sipping on sweetened mint tea and have been doing so in the desert for thousands of years. Mint has natural cooling properties that make it fresh and cooling on the nasal passages. It can be difficult to sleep in hot weather. If it's too hot or too cold your internal body temperature may be affected disrupting your ability to drop off and stay asleep.

The best plan is to sleep in the lowest level of your home as the heat rises. Also, make sure all electrical items are

turned off and not in standby mode as this still creates heat

Some who struggle terribly with the heat resort to taking sheets and bedding straight out of the washing machine and sleeping in a damp bed. But, keeping things damp need not just be a night time resort as a damp cotton t­shirt can provide some relief during the day.

Heat escapes through the skin, which is the largest organ in the body. So, the more skin you can cool down, the better.

If you'd rather not walk around in wet clothing, you can buy a cooling spray, or just having a cool shower can work just as well.

Wrists and ankles have lots of pulse points where blood vessels are close to the skin, so you will cool down more quickly.

Have we missed out your favourite fool proof way to staying as cool as cucumber in the summer months? Send us your tips!

Relax your feet in a bowl of cold water

Sipping mint tea has been a go to for centuries

Is the heat keeping you awake at night and making you feel lousy during the day?

Saving Water

HOW can municipalities effectively combat the challenges of a prolonged drought without compromising essential services?

Amidst the persistent drought plaguing municipalities in Spain, many municipalities have taken significant strides to address the water scarcity issue.

Typical measures include cutting off the water supply to beach showers, reducing potable water usage for park and garden irrigation by half, cutting back on watering of golf courses and temporarily closing water parks.

While the actual water consumption from beach showers is minimal, councils aims to use this measure as a means to raise awareness among the public about the responsible use of resources.

Traditional Spanish Methods Of Saving Water

RAINWATER harvesting: A common practice is to collect rainwater for various household tasks, such as watering plants, mopping floors, and cleaning things. This can be done by installing rainwater harvesting systems on the roof or in open areas of the home.

When preparing to take a shower take a bucket along. Instead of letting cold water run away while it gets up to temperature, use a bucket to collect it. This way, water can be collected that would normally go to waste, where it could be used for other household tasks.

Turn off the tap while washing dishes and brushing teeth too.

Homespun Methods Of Water Conservation

FOR more ideas here are some methods gathered from residents in a Euro Weekly News survey.

• 'I have a tank and water is expensive, so if I have bath, I leave it in and use the water to wash my plates. I add soap! I also filled the toilet with bricks, so it only makes a little [flush] and saves 5 litres,' Judith van Trump, Benissa, Alicante.

• Another resident, Michael Santos, commented: 'Living in a small community of just eight properties, the most expensive cost we have is water for both the pool and gardens. We have cut the length of time that each garden receives communal water. . . reduced from 10 minutes to 3 minutes.'

• Another tipster said: 'Always use a dishwasher as it is far more environmentally­friendly than washing by hand as it uses less water.' It is estimated that hand­washing dishes uses up to 3.5 times more water than a dishwasher.

• When visiting the toilet is it always necessary to flush? Without going into too much detail there is the well­known phrase: 'If it's yellow let it mellow, if it's brown flush it down,' a memorable contribution from Mayor Ed Koch, who reportedly urged New Yorkers to take up the practice during a water shortage.

In Conclusion

BY taking decisive steps to conserve water resources, actions already taken have created an example for other municipalities facing similar drought challenges.

What we all hope to see shortly is some monsoon type weather lasting long enough to top up the aquifers (underground water catchment areas) and reservoirs in the short term and the creation of more desalination plants by the coasts in the long term.

Beach showers to be cut off

Credit: Eric Fischer CC

King of Cozy Mysteries

YOU could call Steve Higgs the King of Cozy Mysteries and he is a genuine phenomenon in the brutal world of publishing having produced some 80 books since turning full time author in 2017.

Speaking to Euro Weekly News he explained “I wasn’t very interested in much at school except for writing and was delighted to win an award when I was 10.

“To some extent my future was pre planned as I come from a military family and it was always expected that I would join the army which I duly did, being commissioned and spent my time on the mechanical side.

“Happily, I was offered the chance to leave, with a reasonable pay off, in my early 40s and I took advantage of the offer.”

After leaving the army he took jobs in the corporate world, got married and is now the proud father of a boy (Hunter) and girl (Hermione) but writing started to call.

He wrote his first book whilst still working and decided that this had to be the future but realised that trying to get an agent and then a publishing deal could be a long and torturous process, so he decided to learn about selfpublishing.

The process of writing comes easy to him and he tends to write a new book every two weeks or so which explains how he has published so many is such a relatively short period of time.

“Although I work quite long hours when I am writing, a lot of my time is involved in promotion and marketing, as well a weekly newsletter to everyone who signs up via my website”

Several authors bemoan the effect that Amazon has had on booksellers but Steve, recognised from the beginning that as a self­publisher and with Amazon hogging about 80 per cent of the world market, not only did he want to work with them but is quite happy for his books to be made available on Kindle Unlimited where for a small monthly fee customers can download a select number of books at no additional cost.

The income per download may be small but when you have 80 books and growing the actual amount is better than might be expected and half of his annual income comes from Kindle

Unlimited.

A definition of cozy mystery is a gentle and often humorous subset of the broad genre of crime writing which is a comfort read.

With characters such as retired policeman Albert Smith and his Alsatian Rex Harrison (who was thrown out of police school for being too clever), Housewife come detective Patricia Fisher, Wedding Planner, Felicity Phillips and The Paranormal Blue Moon Detective Agency, the novels are both gently amusing and genuinely mysteries and always include a dog, a cat or both.

“I am in discussion with a production company about the possibility of three of my creations becoming TV or even Film franchises and I like to network with other authors and recently spent a few days in Mallorca at a special event for self­publishers.”

With an eye to the future, Steve is working with a select number of other writers who will be co­authors of books based on his concepts. He will take on the risk of publishing the books which will be produced to an agreed ‘script’ and will then share any profits on a 50/50 basis.

Highly successful author Steve Higgs

Credit: Steve Higgs

BUSINESS EXTRA

Fuelled up

ASDA became Britain’s first retailer to publish diesel and petrol prices charged at its local forecourts online after the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) found that the chain’s fuel prices had tripled since before the pandemic. The sector had increased these to unnecessarily high levels, the CMA said.

Nicely played

CASILLAS WORLD, founded eight years ago by Iker Casillas, former goalkeeper for both Real Madrid and Spain’s national side, earned €350,287 euros in 2022, 88 per cent more than in 2022. The company, based in the leafy Madrid suburb of Pozuelo de Alarcon, handles the footballer’s image rights.

New face

SARAH BREEDEN was named the Bank of England’s deputy governor and will also serve on the Monetary Policy and the Financial Policy committees. A senior executive, she led Bank’s response to the Northern Rock crisis in 2007 and takes over from Sir Jon Cunliffe, who has held this role since 2013.

Not you

EL CORTE INGLES sold its holding in the Only You hotel chain and will instead focus on its future hotel in Madrid’s Goya district, leaving the Matutes family’s Palladium Hotel Group as Only You’s sole shareholder. The sale went through in July 2022 but was not made public until early August.

Downsizing

HOUSE OF FRASER revealed that it could close more stores, after shutting eight in the past year. Michael Murray, the chief executive of Mike Ashley’s retail empire, which rescued the chain in 2018, said its department store portfolio was “continually under review” and some outlets were “still too big.”

STAT OF WEEK €8.9 billion

in revenues for the Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) bottling plant during the first half of this year, an 8.4 per cent increase on the same period in 2022.

Government does its duty Membership scam alert

DON’T find yourself up the creek without a paddle by falling into the trap of a phony Amazon scam.

The online e­commerce and digital streaming multinational recently alerted to the dangers of being fooled by unexpected calls, texts or emails that claim to refer to a costly membership fee or other membership issue.

These will ask you to confirm or cancel the charge, Amazon warned.

“Scammers will try to convince you to provide payment or bank account information in order to reinstate a membership,” the company said.

Amazon would never ask

you to provide payment information for products or services over the phone, a recent statement stressed. Never pay over the phone, it added.

“Visit the Message Centre on the Amazon website or on our app to review authentic emails from Ama­

THE UK government announced plans to grant hundreds of new oil and gas licences.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confirmed on July 31 that the government would continue to back the North Sea oil and gas industry in its drive to make Britain more energy­independent.

Adopting a more flexible application process, licences could also be offered near currently licensed areas, he said. This would unlock vital reserves due to existing infrastructure and previous assessments, Sunak explained while visiting Aberdeen’s Shell gas terminal.

The independent Climate Change Committee predicted that approximately a quarter of the UK’s energy demands would still be met by oil and gas

TV turn off

ITV’S earnings fell 52 per cent to £152 million (€176.5 million) during the first six months of this year.

Total advertising revenues dropped by 11 per cent to £811 million (€940 million) between January and the end of June, compared with the same period in 2022.

The broadcaster admitted that it was enduring its worst advertising downturn since the 2008 financial crisis although chief executive Dame Carolyn McCall said that although advertisers were cautious, ITV had not experienced any difficulty in attracting sponsors for its programmes.

zon. To verify your Prime Membership status or to make payments, log into your Amazon account, and go to the Your Account section.”

Amazon also recommended always going through the Amazon mobile app or website when

Licensed to drill

seeking customer service, tech support, or to make changes to an account.

“Be wary whenever someone tries to convince you that you must act now,” the company said.

“Go directly to our website when seeking help with Amazon devices, services or orders.

“If you receive communications — a call, text or email — that you think may not be from Amazon, please report it to us,” the company said.

For more information on how to stay safe online, visit Security & Privacy on the Amazon Customer Service page.

tensive to ship oil and gas from abroad, he said.

The government was taking steps to slow the rapid decline in domestic production of oil and gas, securing the UK’s domestic energy supply and reducing reliance on hostile states.

“We have all witnessed how Putin has manipulated and weaponised energy, disrupting supply and stalling growth in countries around the world,” Sunak pointed out.

DUTY on pub drinks will be up to 11p lower than at UK supermarkets.

The changes would help pubs compete on equal terms, explained Chancellor Jeremy Hunt.

“British pubs are the beating heart of our communities and as they face rising costs, we’re doing all we can to help them,” Hunt said. “Through our Brexit Pubs Guarantee, we’re protecting the price of a pint.”

Taxing drinks by strength for the first time reflected the popularity of low alcohol drinks, the Chancellor added.

Small Producer Relief would also help small businesses and start­ups create new drinks, innovate and grow, he said.

Go like the wind

IBERDROLA’S US subsidiary, Avangrid, has completed construction of an electricity substation off the Massachusetts coast.

Iberdrola has, through Avangrid, a 50 per cent stake in the €2.5 billion Vineyard Wind undertaking, together with Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP).

when the UK reached net zero in 2050. More licences were compatible with net zero commitments, the prime minister insisted. Bearing in mind the anticipated part­reliance on fossil fuels for years to come, it was more carbon­in­

Penalty imposed

TELEFONICA must pay €5 million for breaching its €725 million contract with DTS on acquiring the digital channel in 2015.

At the time, Spain’s National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) required Telefonica to make concessions preserving market competition by maintaining DTS’s existing contracts.

Telefonica was also obliged to make available wholesale offers of premium channels ­ with access to major sporting events ­ to other television operators.

Despite this proviso, Telefonica reached an agreement giving sports streaming service DAZN exclusive rights to broadcast the 2021, 2022 and 2023 Formula 1 seasons. The deal also allowed Telefonica to access all DAZN content.

This fine is the latest from the merger, including a €6 million CNMC sanction last March for preventing client transfers.

As well as easing the need for higheremission imports, granting further licences would protect more than 200,000 jobs, and expand the UK economy, Sunak added. It would also provide the next generation of skilled apprentices.

Unicaja movements

UK hedge fund Oceanwood announced the sale of up to 117 million of its Unicaja shares.

Oceanwood has assigned the Bank of America (BofA) to manage the €124 million sale, equal to 4.4 per cent of its 7.4 per cent holding, according to a filing with Spain’s National Securities Market Commission (CNMV).

If the sale materialises, Oceanwood would no longer have a sufficient stake to justify Unicaja board membership, with the likelihood that its representative, David Vaamonde Juanatey, will resign as director.

News of the sale came a day after the Unicaja board announced that Isidro Rubiales was to substitute its chief executive Manuel Menendez.

The substation’s high voltage cables connecting the Vineyard Wind I’s 62 turbines to the onshore network are key to the project’s viability, Iberdrola explained.

Located 24 kilometres south of Martha's Vineyard and 55 kilometres south of the Cape Cod peninsula, this is the Spanish multinational's first and largest windfarm in the US and will meet the energy needs of more than 400,000 homes.

War pays

ARMS multinational BAE Systems increased its profit forecast as military spending soared.

The London­based company posted half ­ year underlying earnings of £1.3 billion (€1.5 billion), a 10 per cent increase on last year, plus £21.1 billion €25.5 billion) in orders including 246 infantry fighting vehicles from the Czech Republic. It now has a record backlog of £66.2 billion (€76.9 billion).

BAE said that 2023 earnings per share would grow between 10 to 12 per cent, compared with the rise of between 5 and 7 per cent that it forecast in February.

AMAZON HEADQUARTERS: Advice on avoiding scams

ABERDEEN VISIT: Britain’s PM Rishi Sunak at the Shell refinery

Photo credit: Flickr/GoToVan

Photo credit: 10 Downing Street

LONDON - FTSE 100

DOW JONES

Sad song

SINGER, composer and poet Joaquin Sabina must pay Hacienda €2.5 million in back taxes after Spain’s Supreme Court turned down his appeal against an April 2022 High Court decision that ruled in favour of a 2019 claim. He must now pay tax due on royalties ceded to family­owned companies in 2008, 2009 and 2010.

By the book

DEMAND for English language learning in the first half of 2023 boosted sales and profits for publishing and education company Pearson. Sales rose 5 per cent to £1.8 billion (€2.09 billion) during this period while pre­tax profits rose by 24 per cent to £236 million (€274.3 million), with Pearson expecting to meet full­year targets.

A paler shade of green

BRITAIN’S Business secretary Kemi Badenoch suggested that electric vehicle directives could hinder UK investment and even result in job losses.

According to UK media reports, Badenoch passed on “major concerns” to her colleagues in the Cabinet regarding plans to fine manufacturers who fail to meet electric vehicle production quotas.

This has been interpreted as a sign that the government could be wavering on another green pledge.

The

Clarel deal off

SUPERMARKET chain Dia cancelled a €60 million operation to sell its Clarel perfumery subsidiary to the C2 private equity fund.

Dia told Spain’s National Securities Market Commission (CNMV) on August 1 that the deal was off after C2 failed to comply with all the terms of the agreement to buy 1,015 Clarel stores, three distribution centres and other assets.

Conditions included the CNMV’s approval, which was confirmed in May, but Dia announced that since C2 had not financially secured the Clarel merchandise before July 31, it had automatically rescinded the contract.

Meanwhile, C2 denied Dia’s allegations and said that it reserved the right to take legal action over the “unilateral” breach of the agreement.

Small mercies

et regarding rules which comes into effect in January and oblige manufacturers to ensure that at least 22 per cent of new sales in Britain are emissions­free models, increasing annually to reach 80 per cent by 2030.

Manufacturers will be fined £15,000 (€17,431) for every polluting car they sell over the limit, unless they can buy extra allowances from other companies.

“If major car companies employing thousands of people are saying that there’s a problem, then it’s her job to look at ways of easing that problem,” a Badenoch spokesperson told Politico magazine.

The UK ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars is due in 2030 despite widespread concerns that Britain does not have sufficient infrastructure and capacity for the growth of electric vehicles.

THE UK’s national debt reached 101 per cent of its gross domestic product in the last quarter of 2022, compared with 84.4 per cent in 2020’s pre ­ pandemic first quarter. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) also revealed that Britain’s £2.5 trillion (€2.9 trillion) debt improved in the first quarter of 2023, falling to 100.5 per cent of GDP.

On track

SPAIN’S passenger rail service Renfe will pay rolling stock manufacturer Talgo €181 million to maintain its fleet of high­speed AVE trains until 2027, an extension of their existing contract. Talgo obtained a net profit of €7 million during this year’s first half, a 31.7 per cent increase on the same period in 2022, thanks to increased industrial activity.

Business secretary referred to industry disqui­

KEMI BADENOCH: Business secretary said electric vehicle directives could hinder investment

credit: UK Government

A diverse dilemma

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

PLEASANTLY, but not unexpectedly surprised at the large number of readers who have contacted me to agree with my views on the excessive use of nonwhite actors on British TV. According to a couple of correspondents the UK is not the only country experiencing this.

Apparently Holland and Denmark are also witnessing the phenomena. One of the readers actually sent me a set of photographs announcing species that have become extinct. These included Wooly Mammoths, Saber toothed Tigers, Dodo birds and adverts featuring undiversified white families. Oddly, this somewhat light hearted observation actually made some sense. In fact just 7% of British people are in a marital relationship with people of the same ethnic group. If the vast majority of actors depicting UK families in ads are actually non­white, it gives the impression that the advertising mafia is pushing some agenda known only to them. It rather smells like leftie missions

to normalise inter racial relationships; an exercise called social engineering, which unfortunately, because members of the white populace are petrified to give opinions or utilize their freedom of speech, is actually working. Personally I will endeavor to use my own freedom of speech until I face prosecution, a situation I would actually welcome. Putting someone in the dock for exercising their legal right to express a perfectly legitimate opinion is exactly what is needed to bring the whole conspiracy brigade out into the open. Wouldn’t you just love to hear the prosecution attempt to heap guilt on a white member of the public who stated publically and correctly that despite making up only 13% of London’s total population, black Londoners account for45% of the city’s knife murder victims, 61% of knife murder perpetrators and 53% of knife crime perpetrators? It would also be interesting to see if they would even consider prosecuting the guest who declared on national television that there were ‘too many whites on the Buckingham palace balcony’? Somehow I don’t think so. This practice is a sordid attempt to undermine and frighten the majority of UK

ENTER THE ROBOT OUR VIEW

citizens into surrendering their hard fought country to one of destabilized diversity. When this prevails and the majority realise they have been duped into relinquishing their whole ancestral existence, the street riots and warfare will ensue. This will then give the conspirators the opportunity to send the army and riot police into the UK towns and cities. When the mayhem and body count brings the fighting to an end, the schemers will have gained control and presented the opportunity to bring about a complete restructuring of the rules and laws of our once great country. These people don’t really care about ethnicities; they merely want to create chaos, martial law and curfews. Once the young have been utterly brainwashed into the new order, they will happily and thankfully fall into the wishes and propaganda of the new leaders. Bit like China! Another Leapy rant? Strange how many in past columns have actually materialized! Keep the faith. Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com expatradioscotland.com

Mon. Fri. 1am till 4.

PART of the enjoyment of a meal out is the relationship that you have with the serving staff and their ability to advise you on the food and drink on the menu. The occasion can also be ruined if the waiter or waitress is in a bad mood, is surly, unhelpful, or simply keeps you waiting. Although unemployment, especially amongst the young, in Spain is still very high, it seems that many restaurants find it hard to recruit and keep staff and whereas years ago Spanish and Portuguese staff tended to head off to the UK and other parts of Europe to work, now restaurateurs are starting to rely on staff from Eastern Europe. There’s a lot of cost involved in employing staff on a contract, especially when the current (although who knows for how long?) government has enacted several laws to protect the rights and benefits of workers.

So, enter the robot! It has been possible for some years to obtain robot serving staff offering different grades of service from simply delivery of plates to a full service including ordering from a digital menu and there are even robot chefs who can be programmed to create a range of dishes.

Science Fiction films have for decades imaged sophisticated robots, often made to look like humans, who can cater to every diners needs but now Spain is beginning to see more robots entering the scene.

They are not widespread as yet but as staff become more difficult and expensive to obtain and robots get cheaper to rent (plus they don’t need holidays, social security payments or keep tips) expect to see then becoming more widespread.

RICHARD is in his 50’s, a retired forensic accountant from Scotland. After falling into an alcoholic coma, following a binge, he knew he had a choice, keep drinking and die, or stop and live. Here is his story…

“I started drinking aged 15. The sensation was amazing, I loved the feeling, was immediately hooked, and wanted more. I come from a big family, and a culture that promotes the use of alcohol. It wasn’t frowned upon, and for many years my behaviour wasn’t unusual.

I had a senior position in a prominent role and managed to keep a lid on my alcohol use. It became a chronic problem when I retired from work – that is when I became a daily drinker (morning, noon, and night). Gambling could have become a problem, but I needed the money for alcohol. Eating became a chore. Relationships became a thing of the past. Alcohol always came first.

My rock bottom was probably

A design for living... that saved my life

in the period leading up to my hospitalisation. By then I was depressed, lonely and I had no interest in people, places, or things. Alcohol had become my life, and I would have been happy to go into a blackout and never wake up.

Then I was told by my GP that I had cirrhosis of the liver and if I continued drinking my lifespan was 3­5 years. I reacted by going on a four ­ week long drinking binge. The result was me ending up in an alcoholic coma.

At this point realisation hit, I

knew I had a choice and that I had to do something; keep drinking and die or stop drinking; but I just couldn’t fathom how that would be possible.

I was full of fear at the prospect of my first Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. I hoped that I would hate it and that would justify never going back. However, what I found was love and understanding; and a realisation that there were many other people just like me.

Life now? I believe that I have

found (as we say in the fellowship) a “bridge to normal living”. I have new relationships, family support and have rediscovered sports. Impatience and intolerance are managed. I am human, and my character defects will always be there; but with the help of the fellowship of AA, they are shared and understood by other alcoholics.

My advice? Try it and see. It’s free, if you don’t like it there is no obligation to return but the door will always be open. Get to meetings and listen. Obtain phone

numbers, and call when you need help. I recommend for any newcomer, the Alcoholics Anonymous book called Living Sober. It’s easy to read; and contains advice on everything you will experience as you begin a sober journey. “

There are meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous, with friendly people who will understand, held daily, throughout the Costa del Sol. Meetings are free to attend, and anyone who thinks they may have a problem with alcohol is welcome.

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

LETTERS

Holiday bookings: A summer decline

LAST week we shared a report from GMTV that revealed UK bookings to Southern Europe have experienced a notable dip of 10 per cent, while autumn bookings also showed a 3 per cent decline.

The article then goes on to explain that there could be several reasons for this including the formidable heat with recordbreaking temperatures that we’ve experienced we will continue to experience this summer. Another is the rising cost of living in the UK, for many such as 27 ­ year old Lauren Pugh from Bournemouth, a holiday abroad is a luxury that she just cannot af­

Comments

‘The main problem is British tourists have had a close connection with Spain since the 1950’s under General F Franco, and because of this fact the infrastructure was built up all along Spains coasts to accommodate this fact, and it is now suffering. In addition, this offered much employment for Spain. As a result the hospitality is suffering with tourism and more importantly the revenue that this created has been impacted. This problem has now come to a head with various autonomous regions lobbying Madrid to end the 90 day rule and move along the line of the UK with the 180 days, which will help in the main holiday periods for Spain and it’s future revenue shortfalls.’, M

‘Nothing could have hit tourism as much as Brexit did, let the Spanish drag their feet, they have every right to do whatever they want … the English seem to think it’s their right to anything….. perhaps the people who voted to leave the EU should have looked at the benefits of being in it rather than finding fault and reasons to leave it.’

Alan

‘Yes some of the factors are true, however It is obvious by it omission, any none EU Tourists e.g British Tourists who travelled to EU country’s at Easter time are barred from a summer holiday, due to Spain dragging it’s heels over the 90 day rule despite their

ford ­ especially with mortgage rates increasing by £550 a month. Coupled with this are the extra costs of going away during the peak summer season. Holiday firms are reporting a shift towards autumn bookings as more and more people look to take advantage of the lower prices and travel out of season.

Perhaps, times are changing and preferences are evolving. Millennials are increasingly seeking more immersive experiences, exploring adventure tourism, cultural heritage and the hidden gems found off­thebeaten­path.

luke warm attempt to alter this. It hurts Tourists and Tourism alike and until bureaucrats get their selfs together the problem will fester.’ M

‘Unfortunately, holidays will just be out of people’s grasp soon.’

Theresa Marie

‘Cost of living. Another interest rate rise this week for UK Mortgages. Got to realise people do not have a money tree in the garden. Increase in Hotels and Flights. I know people not holidaying this year. They cant afford it.’

Andy Aris

‘Andy Aris Have you seen the prices for Air B&B & Booking.com @ €100 plus per night just for one bedroom apartment.’

‘Strange our transfer bookings are way up this year.’ Costa Blanca TRANSFERS

‘Because people don’t have the money’,

Brian Rae

‘Because of the scaremongering about the heat’, Archie

Rainier

‘Archie Rainier you mean it’s not been hot?’,

Emma Monks

‘Emma Monks not as hot as last year no about 6­ 8 degrees cooler in fact’, Archie

Rainier

PETS

PETS

Find pet sitters now for your trip Run rabbit run

MANY of our pet owners in Spain choose checked pet sitters from our listings. Our HousesitMatch sitters are checked, they are pet lovers and they won’t charge you a cent for the house or pet sitting services. Instead, they offer a fair exchange free accommodation for free pet care. It’s a win win! The housesitters are for free when you are a member of the Housesitmatch network.

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 petcare. These are the steps to take:

1. Register as a Homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com

2. Choose a Standard account (£ 69 GB 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

If you’re planning travel later this year don’t delay, Find your petsitters now with HouseSit Match

want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose. How does it work?

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

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 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 or pet-sitter go to www.HouseSitMatch.com.

WHEN it comes to ensuring your rabbit lives a comfortable, healthy life indoors, creating the right environment is of paramount importance. As most rabbit owners will agree, rabbits are sociable creatures that require ample space and stimulation to thrive.

First and foremost, size matters. A rabbit’s habitat should ideally be as spacious as possible, allowing room for the rabbit to hop, play, and explore. The minimum size should be at least three times your rabbit's length, though bigger is always better. Next, consider the flooring. While wire­bottomed cages are often promoted in pet stores, they can cause discomfort and even injuries to your rabbit's feet. Instead, opt for a solid floor lined with absorbent, soft materials like hay or recycled paper bedding.

Rabbits are intelligent and curious animals. Provide toys, tunnels, and hiding spots to cater to their inquisitive nature. Chew toys, in particular, are vital, as they help keep your rabbit’s teeth healthy. Temperature and lighting are two other key considerations. Rabbits fare best in temperatures between 1020°C, so avoid placing their habitat in direct sunlight or near heat sources. More­

over, ensure the cage is situated in a well­lit, quiet, and peaceful area to mimic their natural environment.

Lastly, cleanliness is paramount. Regularly clean the rabbit's living area to maintain hygiene levels and keep your furry friend happy. Remember, a well­designed habitat can greatly enhance your rabbit's quality of life, contributing to their physical and emotional wellbeing.

Exploring exotic pets

STEPPING into the world of exotic pets can be a journey filled with unique encounters and newfound understanding.

From the spiky charm of hedgehogs to the awe­inspiring allure of tarantulas, these unconventional companions offer a pet ownership experience quite unlike any other.

Hedgehogs, with their distinctive spiny coats and nocturnal habits, are rapidly becoming popular among pet enthusiasts. These little creatures require a specific habitat, diet, and handling, but their endearing nature makes the effort worthwhile.

Owners are often fascinated by their self­anointing behaviour ­

an unusual spectacle where hedgehogs lick to create a frothy saliva, then spread it on their spines!

On the other end of the spectrum, tarantulas, although not everyone's first choice, offer a different kind of companionship.

Contrary to popular belief, most tarantulas are not dangerous to

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

humans.

Exotic pets are becoming more popular

Their incredible diversity, spanning various sizes, shapes, and colours, can spark a fascination for nature's marvels. However, they do require intricate care in terms of habitat and diet, with some species living up to 20 years.

Ownership of exotic pets requires a commitment to understand their unique needs and behaviours. Careful research and preparation are crucial to provide these extraordinary creatures with a suitable environment and proper care. Delving into the world of exotic pets can indeed be rewarding, but prospective owners should remember that respect for these animals and their natural habitats is paramount.

Rabbits like to hop, play and explore

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

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

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MABS) MURCIA/MAR MENOR

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

ABBEYGATE Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www.abbeygateinsure.com (302721)

INSURANCE MASSAGE

ELEGANTE , slim Sophie. Experienced in a large variety of full body massages. Villamartin apartment or can travel to all areas. 693 357 526 (302437)

MOTORING

WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)

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

OTHERS PERGOLAS

TAILOR-MADE in durable canvas, pergola covers, sails, umbrella, spa and CAR COVERS. 10% off Cushions. Mazarron to Costa Blanca. RETIRING SOON DON’T MISS OUT Google: KrugerCanopies.com WhatsApp: 667 879 399 krugercanopies@yahoo.co.uk (290159)

Chaotic derby day

THE Carabela de Plata, the traditional summer trophy in Cartagena football, witnessed an unforgettable clash between FC Cartagena and Real Murcia. This derby match, usually considered a friendly encounter, turned into a chaotic event filled with controversy and drama.

The match was marked by intense friction with 3 players sent off and a violent altercation between Rodri Ríos and Datkovic. Despite warnings from coach Víctor Sánchez del Amo to avoid unnecessary clashes, the players couldn't rein in their emotions. The contest also saw scuffles between fans and an attempted blackout at the Cartagonova stadium!

In the midst of the chaos, a fan suffered an epileptic fit, causing a temporary halt in the game. Fortunately, the fan recovered, but this incident added to the already eventful

night. FC Cartagena secured the victory with a resounding 3­0 victory.

Despite the turmoil, around

Trophy reminder

TENNIS sensation Carlos Alcaraz continues to bask in the glory of his recent triumph at Wimbledon. The young player from Murcia has taken an unusual step to ensure he never forgets his achievement – he has placed the coveted Wimbledon trophy in his living room saying ‘I have it in my living room so that every time I have lunch or dinner with my family I can see it. It's something I don't want to forget.’

Alcaraz's victory at Wimbledon was an unexpected yet remarkable feat, especially considering his age and limited experience on grass courts. At only 20 years old, he clinched the championship, fulfilling a dream he had cherished since he began playing the sport. ‘Honestly, for me, winning Wimbledon at the age of 20 is something I dreamed of when I started playing tennis. And it was my fourth tournament on grass, so it was totally unexpected. It's a great achievement and it's something I have to take some time to think about. Sometimes I think about everything I've already achieved.’ He added.

Local Champion

THE Spanish 100m champion Sergio López Barranco hails from Alcantarilla, Murcia. Despite narrowly missing the World Championships due to stringent qualifying standards, he remains positive. Rooted in Alcantarilla, López is loyal to his hometown club, Sociedad Atlética Alcantarilla, which sets him apart.

He values his community, and this can be seen in his involvement in the renovation of his training track. López's impact as a role model on younger athletes and his emphasis on mental health showcase his holistic approach to success.

López Barranco has rejected many offers from abroad to stay here in Murcia saying he wants to be a ‘prophet in my homeland.’

6,500 spectators attended the match, contributing to a significant box office collection of €30,000. This marked the high­

est amount raised for the Carabela de Plata, reinforcing the importance of this derby as a draw for football enthusiasts.

He now has his mind on the 2024 Olympics saying ‘It's an Olympic year and it's clear that the Games are something unique. My dream is to go to Paris. The Pre ­ Olympic Relays and the European Outdoor Championships in Rome are also clear objectives for 2024.’

Murcia’s Moto2

IN a thrilling showcase of talent and determination, the Moto2 British Grand Prix at Silverstone delivered a historic victory for Fermín Aldeguer, a young rider hailing from La Ñora in Murcia, he marked his place in the records by becoming the third youngest rider to win a Moto2 race. At just 18 years old, Aldeguer's journey to this triumph has been exceptional, as he debuted in Moto2 at the tender age of 16 and showcased his competitive edge from the very beginning.

Silverstone witnessed a race dominated by Spanish riders, with Aldeguer's fellow countrymen Alonso López, Pedro Acosta also from Murcia, and Arón Canet all vying for the lead at various stages. Aldeguer's remarkable performance allowed him to surge ahead, ultimately crossing the finish line with tears of joy and a well­deserved victory wheelie. Pedro Acosta from Mazarrón, despite battling a painful leg injury sustained during the break secured a crucial podium finish. As the championship unfolds with eleven more races to go, all eyes will be on Acosta's physical recovery and his continued pursuit of excellence on the track.

Eventful Carabela de Plata clash between FC Cartagena and Real Murcia.

Image: Twitter/ @FCCartagena_efs

Alcaraz: Keeping dreams visible

Young Sensation: Fermín Aldeguer celebrates his historic Moto2 victory at Silverstone.

Image: Twitter/ @Aldeguer54

Image: Twitter/ @carlosalcaraz