Costa de Almeria 28 September – 4 October 2023 Issue 1995

LOS BANDIDOS

IN the heart of Rioja, under the blazing sun of a late September afternoon, seven fearless Los Bandidos runners dared to tackle the Circuito de Carreras Populares Diputación de Almeria 2023. With temperatures still soaring at a sweltering 30 degrees as the clock struck 7.00pm, these intrepid souls embarked on a challenging 7.7­kilometre odyssey, consisting of three gruelling laps, each punctuated by a punishing, precipitous hill that seemed to defy gravity itself.

The race’s victor emerged crossing the finish line in 26 minutes and 38 seconds. But the spotlight wasn’t solely

reserved for the men; the first lady to conquer the course did so in an impressive 32 minutes and 11 seconds.

A total of 150 triumphant

runners completed their journey with the victors in each group awarded with trophies.

Los Bandidos was born in June 2018 when a small

group of runners tackled the scenic 5k Mojacar Paseo.

Since then, the crew has grown, diversifying its ranks to include road cyclists, sea swimmers, and determined triathletes.

People of all ages, nationalities, and paces are welcome.

Los Bandidos are also known for their camaraderie, and most of their sessions end with a well­deserved post­activity ritual, be it a cosy coffee or a piece of cake.

For more information, contact Kevin at: iron mankev08@gmail.com and follow the group on Facebook.

CHALLENGING: Some 150 triumphant runners took part.

Image: Los Bandidos

Last two sections

THE President of the Junta de Andalucia, Juanma Moreno, has now proudly inaugurated the last two sections of the Almanzora stretch of road.

On the bright morning of September 25, the ribbon was cut, and traffic flowed on these fresh stretches of road, marking a historic achievement that links Zurgena to

Anna Ellis

the Mediterranean roadway within the municipal boundaries of Huercal­Overa.

Mayor Domingo Zurano couldn’t contain his enthusiasm, declaring, “This is more than just an inauguration; it’s the fulfilment of a long­standing demand from our community.

“This newly paved path

IMAGINE a bustling marina with the sun glinting off the water’s surface, and a team of 35 dedicated volunteers donning their wetsuits and masks, ready to embark on a mission like no other.

Over the weekend of September 23 and 24, Roquetas de Mar witnessed a remarkable event that has been making waves for 17 years; an underwater cleaning extravaganza in the Aguadulce marina.

Among the divers finds were 206 plastic bottles, 141 plastic fragments, 55 caps, 46 containers and cans, 36 bags, and countless other minuscule plastic fragments.

The total weight of this underwater bounty?

A staggering 148 kilograms, a stark testament to the sheer volume of waste that plagues our oceans.

isn’t just about roads; it’s about paving the way for progress, sparking new business initiatives, and propelling our region into a future full of potential.”

For years, residents and local businesses had been clamouring for the completion of this vital stretch of road.

On a mission

The town hall of Roquetas de Mar confirmed that over 70 per cent of the collected waste was plastic, explaining: “It’s a chilling reminder that our oceans are becoming a dumping ground for our negligence, with dire consequences for marine life and ecosystems.”

DIVERS: Cleaning up underwater.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Roquetas de Mar / Facebook

Berja win

SEPTEMBER 23 and 24 saw Granada driver Humberto Janssens the winner of the touring cars of the ‘Ciudad de Berja’ event. The veteran driver achieved the best time of five minutes, 33 seconds, and 27 thousandths during the three racing rounds.

Gluten-free

ADRA Town Council is hosting an informative session titled ‘Understanding GlutenFree Product Labels in Supermarkets’. This event takes place on September 30 at 6.00pm at the Fisheries Interpretation Centre. Entry is free.

Fiesta time

THE Plaza de San Francisco in Albox has undergone a makeover in preparation for the upcoming festivities dedicated to their patron saint, St Francis. These jubilant celebrations are set to take place from today. September 28 until October 1.

Saint Cleofas

ON September 25, the Veratans of the Municipality celebrated the holiday of Vera’s patron saint, Saint Cleofas. The town hall dedicated the day to its veterans, congratulating them for their work and seeking the Patron Saint’s protection.

Rename path

THE 2.4­kilometre­long pedestrian path, which connects the Nijaran neighbourhoods of San José and Pozo de los Frailes and is dedicated to the memory of Cesar Torres Diaz, Dona Pakyta’s nephew, “should be renamed,” according to Amigos del Cabo de Gata­Níjar Natural Park.

Youth bonus

CARBONERAS residents turning 18 this year can now apply for the Youth Cultural Bonus, which offers fantastic discounts for various cultural experiences. Applications before September 30 at bonoculturajoven.gob.es

Sustainable future

Anna Ellis

VERA, a town with a commitment to sustainable urban development, recently made its presence felt at the prestigious Greencities Forum in Malaga.

Led by Vera’s Tourism councillor, Carolina Perez, a dedicated delegation from Vera embarked on a journey to connect with visionaries and experts in the realm of urban intelligence and sustainability.

The event served as a dynamic convergence point for all key stakeholders engaged in the construction of smart and sustainable cities across

YOUR EWN HAS

Spain.

Carolina Perez, spearheading Vera’s participation, expressed her enthusiasm for the event’s mission, saying, “Our goal is to stay at the forefront of urban transformation, with a firm focus on people­centric development.

“To build the Vera of the future, we must embrace smart mobility and sustainability as guiding principles.”

At Greencities, Vera had the opportunity to absorb a wealth of knowledge, not only from experts but from fellow municipalities sharing similar dreams.

Closed till summer Half marathon

THE curtain has fallen on the convenient car access to the natural beaches west of San Jose in the Nijareño neighbourhood.

Nestled between the breathtaking beauty of Genoveses and Cala Carbon, Barronal, and Monsul, these pristine slices of paradise are tucked within the enchanting embrace of the Cabo de GataNíjar Natural Park.

For a glorious 100 days, beachgoers had the privilege of embarking on a scenic road

trip to these unspoiled gems.

This year, however, brought a subtle change as the cost of this unforgettable journey increased from €5 to €6 per vehicle.

The decision, attributed to the general rise in prices, aimed to ensure the continued maintenance and preservation of these precious natural havens.

The increase in price may have been a modest one but it’s estimated a whopping €345,000 has changed hands.

A BIG shout ­ out to all young athletes and aspiring runners!

The much ­ awaited ‘Rocket City’ Kids Half Marathon in Roquetas de Mar is officially open for registration.

It’s time to lace up your trainers as Rocket City offers routes of various distances, catering to runners of all skill levels and ages.

Whether you’re a seasoned young athlete or just starting your running

Latin rhythms

GET ready to groove to the sultry beats and passionate melodies as the Apolo Theatre in Almeria prepares to host the latest instalment of the Latin Music Night on September 29 and 30.

This eagerly anticipated event promises to be a vibrant showcase of musical talent, featuring the incredible voices of Almeria’s very own Victor Guirado and Cesar Maldonado, alongside the spirited performances of Nuevos Aires and Grupos Capachos.

The councillor for Culture, Diego Cruz, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “For the fourth consecutive year, the cultural autumn of the capital acquires a Latin flavour with the Latin Music Night festival, an event that

98 STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Golden tribute

is consolidated as a key and essential in the province of Almeria.”

Latin Music Night has become a cherished tradition, an annual rendezvous that brings together music aficionados.

journey, there’s a place for you in this marathon.

Mark your calendars for November 11 at 4.30pm, when the starting pistol will echo through the picturesque Parque de Los Bajos.

It’s the perfect setting for a memorable run that combines sport, fun, and community spirit.

Ready to take the plunge?

To learn more about the event, register, or get important details like race guidelines and timings, simply head over to www.cruzandolameta.es.

ON THE evening of Sunday, September 24, Almeria witnessed a heartwarming spectacle that left residents and visitors alike awestruck. The city’s most emblematic fountains danced in radiant yellow, while municipal treasures like the Maestro Padilla Auditorium and the Urban Planning Management building embraced the same luminous tribute. This colourful transformation unfolded marking International Cancer Research Day, a poignant occasion that touched the hearts of everyone in the city.

The choice of yellow as the illuminating colour was deliberate, as it represents the strength and resilience of cancer survivors and the tireless dedication of researchers worldwide. It was a silent tribute to those battling cancer, a symbol of hope for those still fighting, and a beacon of inspiration for the future.

VERA DELEGATION: Visited the Greencities Forum, Malaga.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Vera / Facebook

LATIN MUSIC: A cherished tradition.

Image: Ayuntamiento De Almería / Facebook

Football milestone

IN the world of football, milestones are the markers of a player’s journey, and Lucas Robertone, the talented midfielder of UD Almeria, has just notched up a significant one.

In a recent clash against Valencia CF, the Argentinian maestro proudly celebrated his 100th game as a Rojiblanco.

Hailing from Concordia, Robertone made his debut with UD Almeria during the 2020/21 season. Since then, his career trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric, mirroring his exceptional performances on the pitch. This current season has seen him hit the peak of his footballing prowess.

In his inaugural season as a Rojiblanco, Robertone graced the field in 24 league matches, a critical promotion play­off game, and five intense Copa del Rey clashes.

The following season, 2021/22, he took his place as a regular starter, with 26 league appearances and an unforgettable moment in the Spanish Cup.

Last season, in La Liga’s top flight, the 26­year­old displayed his unwavering commitment by participating in almost every fixture, an astounding 37 games.

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

IN a bold move that signals a transformative era for Almeria, the Port Authority, led by President Rosario Soto, and the city’s mayor, Maria del Mar Vazquez, joined forces to present an exciting draft of the Special Planning Plan for the Port of Almeria.

This visionary plan paves the way for the development of the Levante Dock, taking centre stage in the port ­ city integration project.

The Special Plan serves as the port’s urban blueprint, outlining crucial measures and provisions to ensure efficient utilisation of the port space, its

A Vision unveiled

harmony, granting the Levante Dock the much­needed buildability crucial for our project’s realisation,” emphasised Rosario Soto.

“The proposed changes will breathe new life into a plan that has reached its limits.”

This means that a secret has been told carelessly or by mistake. It stems from the Middle Ages and was common advice given in the marketplace.

growth, and its seamless integration with the city’s broader transportation systems.

The current Special Plan,

ON September 24, Roquetas de Mar kicked off its Tourism Fair full of enthusiasm.

Mayor Gabriel Amat personally visited each of the exhibitors, underscoring the municipality’s commitment to

dating back to 2001, has run its course. “With this essential modification, we take a significant step towards fostering port ­ city

However, this journey is far from over. Once the Port Authority finalises the special plan’s details, it will require the green light from the Junta de Andalucía and Puertos del Estado.

Tourism Fair

showcasing its rich tourist offerings and emphasising the need to further establish

Roquetas de Mar as a premier tourist destination.

Mayor Amat articulated his vision, stating, “We already have the Beach Plan in operation until October 15, and our current challenge is to transition towards a sustainable tourism model while addressing the issue of seasonality in the sector.”

Furthermore, he expressed his aspirations for the autumn and winter months: “We hope that 50 per cent of the hotels in Roquetas de Mar can remain open during this period. Together, we aim to explore strategies to revitalise senior tourism, particularly through programs like imserso.”

The Tourism Fair featured active participation from local businesses. Seven Sabores de Almeria booths showcased the quality of provincial products, thanks to the collaboration of the Provincial Council.

BOLD MOVE: Presenting an exciting draft of a Special Plan.

“The cat is out of the bag.”

1st King of England said everyone had to be in bed by 8pm.

Image: Almeria Port Authority

Your new companion

INTRODUCING Gecor: Your new companion for reporting incidents in Huercal de Almeria.

In just a few days, say goodbye to the Green Line app and hello to Gecor, a userfriendly tool that will revolutionise the way you report incidents in the municipality.

Gecor isn’t just an app; it’s your direct line to the Huercal de Almeria City Council, conveniently available on both Apple and Android mobile devices.

Whether it’s a lighting issue, steelwork concern, manhole problem, garden observation, or any other matter related to traffic, signage, or public furniture, Gecor is your go­to solution.

With just a few taps, you can seamlessly access the Huercal de Almeria City Council’s website and electronic headquarters directly from the application.

It’s your one­stop destination for staying connected and informed about everything happening in the vibrant town.

Getting started with Gecor is a snap. Simply download the app, select ‘Huercal de Almeria’ as your municipality, and you’re all set.

Once you’re in, reporting an incident is as easy as sending a message to a friend.

The town hall will receive your report and work tirelessly to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

Making history

THE iconic Post Office headquarters, a structure that has graced the heart of Almeria city for nearly six decades, is now on the brink of becoming a part of history.

With its divisive brutalist architecture, passionately defended by some and fervently disliked by others, this building is poised to vanish from the urban skyline before the arrival of Christmas.

In its place, a central site will soon host the ambitious Almeria Agri­Food Centre.

After standing dormant for a dozen years, the headquarters has once again sprung to life with the hum of workers.

Just days ago, the property underwent thor­

ough deratisation and disinfection, in preparation for the momentous day of September 18the official commencement of demolition work.

The building now finds itself encircled by protective fencing and enveloped in scaffolding, all in anticipation of the forthcoming manual demolition tasks.

Ana Martínez Labella, the spokesperson for the government remarked, “This marks a significant milestone for Almeria.

“It not only resolves a longstanding health concern, but also lays the groundwork for a project that promises to reinvigorate the heart of Almeria with new activity.”

Motorcycle challenge

HUERCAL­OVERA transformed into a thrilling stage for motorcycle enthusiasts from all corners of Spain, and even a passionate rider from London.

Over the weekend of September 23 and 24 riders gathered, some returning for a second or third time, captivated by the allure of the region.

From Catalonia, Jerez de la Frontera, Madrid, and various

towns along the Spanish Levant, they converged on Huercal­Overa.

But one rider, Yusti, deserves a special mention. Hailing from London, Yusti embarked on a three­day journey to join this thrilling adventure.

The challenge began with an orientation route that stretched nearly 600 kilometres, guided by a meticulously

crafted RoadBook.

This map led riders through some of the most iconic locations in the province, each one a postcard­worthy vista.

From the rugged, sun­kissed terrain to the lush, green valleys, the diverse landscapes offered a sensory feast for riders.

It was more than a ride; it was an immersion into the heart and soul of Huercal­Overa.

GECOR APP: Reporting an incident is easy.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Huércal de Almería / Facebook

Photographic routes

ROQUETAS DE MAR has joined forces with photographer Blas Fuentes to unveil a series of captivating photographic routes, aptly titled ‘Discover Las Roquetas’.

The primary goal is to showcase the unique identity of Roquetas de Mar while shedding light on the town’s key tourist attractions and historical landmarks.

The mayor of Roquetas de Mar, Gabriel Amat, enthusiastically expressed that this initiative presents “an unparalleled opportunity to uncover the essence of Roquetas de Mar, exploring our foremost sites of tourist interest through this innovative venture.”

Furthermore, the mayor underscored

the government’s commitment to ensuring that such activities are not limited to the summer season but become a yearround fixture, thereby solidifying Roquetas de Mar’s standing as one of the most sought­after destinations.

“We aspire to transform Roquetas de Mar into a year ­ round tourist and vacation destination,” the mayor confirmed.

“We firmly believe in the town’s quality and diverse tourist offerings, providing visitors with a plethora of leisure options to enjoy our climate, engage in cultural and sporting activities, immerse themselves in nature, and savour our culinary delights.”

Beacon of awareness

ON a beautiful Saturday evening, September 23,

Almeria City came alive with vibrant hues as it donned blue and purple attire to commemorate two vital international observances; the International Day of Sign Languages and the International Day Against Sexual Exploita­

tion and Human Trafficking.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the city’s main fountains and several municipal buildings became canvases for a remarkable display of colours.

Bathed in the serene hues of blue and the passionate tones of purple, these land­

Extravaganza: Mangafest

Anna Ellis

OVER the weekend of September 23 and 24, Almeria played host to Andalucia’s grandest entertainment spectacle.

marks transformed into symbols of unity, awareness, and solidarity.

The International Day of Sign Languages celebrated every September 23, serves as a powerful reminder of the invaluable significance of sign languages in the lives of millions worldwide.

It was a celebration like no other, where video games, Asian culture, and fantasy merged into a captivating tapestry of fun and excitement.

The stage for this grand extravaganza was the Cabo de Gata Congress and Exhibition Palace, nestled in El Toyo.

It was a spectacle that drew in not just the locals but also curious souls from far and wide, transforming the city into a playground of imagination and creativity.

The festival was inaugurated by the city’s mayor, Maria del Mar Vazquez.

In her opening address, she emphasised the significance of this gathering, one that introduced Almeria to a unique blend of cosplay, K­pop, and manga.

The event promised a

treasure trove of workshops, games suitable for all ages, and a congregation of some of the most renowned national associations.

For the uninitiated, the mayor shed light on what awaited them over the weekend. “From the presence of dubbing actors to influencers, cosplayers, and the country’s most popular YouTubers, this event is a rare opportunity to share in their experiences,” she enthused.

GRAND SPECTACLE: The event is a rare opportunity to share experiences.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Almería / Facebook

Anna Ellis

AFTER quite a wait, cycling and wheeled sports enthusiasts now have a thrilling new addition to Roquetas de Mar, a brand ­ new pump track circuit located adjacent to the Aquarium.

Mayor Gabriel Amat inaugurated this exciting space, further expanding the municipality’s already substantial array of sports and leisure facilities.

Juan Ferrer, director of the BMX and Pump Track Galo Sports School of Roquetas de Mar, confirmed: “This track ranks among the longest in Spain and is the largest in all of Andalucia. It was a much ­ requested addition to the municipality, and it’s now a reality. The highquality facilities make it possible to host national competitions.”

In total, this extensive circuit offers

Wheely wait

nearly 300 metres of pure enjoyment for practising various wheeled sports disciplines, including cycling, skateboarding, roller skating, scooters, and any other wheel ­ equipped devices for rolling or surfing.

Youthful vitality

THEY say that youth is a state of mind, and in Almeria, this saying came to life during European Mobility Week which ran from September 16 to 24.

In an inspiring initiative, seniors took centre stage, joining hands with the Red Cross to embark on a journey of physical activity and

wellness.

The councillor for Mobility and Sports, Antonio Jesus Casimiro, underscored the significance of staying active at every stage of life, emphasising that it is the most effective way to ward off diseases.

From brisk walks to tailored exercises, Nicolas

Salmeron Park provided the perfect backdrop for daily sports and rejuvenation.

This activity is not a onetime affair. Beyond the dates of European Mobility Week, it will be reprised on Friday, September 29 from 10.00am for an hour in the park.

PUMP TRACK: For various wheeled sports.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Roquetas de Mar

Managing your investments when living in Spain

Moving to Spain is the perfect opportunity to have a fresh look at your savings and investments. You need to adjust your tax planning and estate planning to take account of the Spanish tax and succession regimes, and it makes perfect sense to review your investment capital at the same time.

Besides the convenience of getting everything done at once, it is all interrelated. The way you hold your assets may affect your tax liabilities and potentially impact whom you can leave the assets to on death and whether they will need to go through probate or can be easily passed on.

Start your review by asking yourself a few questions –

1) What are you looking to achieve? Do you need income to help finance your retirement? Or are you looking for growth, to protect the value of your savings for the long-term?

2) What is your time horizon? Short-term investors

By Jon Pemberton, Partner, Blevins Franks

should usually consider different options to longer-term ones.

3) What are your circumstances? What are your expenses? What pension savings do you have? Do you have family to consider? Are you in good health? Do you expect to live here longterm?

4) What currency? Converting Sterling funds into Euros puts you at the mercy of exchange rate movements.

5) How much investment

risk are you comfortable with? And what level of risk does your current portfolio have?

6) How much Spanish tax are you paying on your investments? What was tax efficient in the UK is unlikely to be tax efficient here. Will re-structuring your capital save you tax?

Your investment strategy

Your overall investment strategy should be specifically designed around the answers and your portfolio created and managed to meet your circumstances and goals. An ill-fitting portfolio may not work as hard as you need it to, or be eroded by inflation, or too risky for you or difficult to access.

You need to pinpoint the right risk/return balance for your peace of mind, but it is difficult to effectively assess your own risk profile, so you will benefit from third party professional objective guidance.

Your investments then need to be suitably diversified to ensure you are not over-exposed to any

given country, asset type, sector or stock.

This can be extended one further step by utilising a 'multimanager', approach.

Tax-efficient investment arrangements

A tax-efficient structure can keep most of your investments in one place, making them easier to manage, and provide protection to help you legitimately avoid paying too much tax. The less tax you pay, the more of your returns you get to enjoy.

Take specialist wealth management advice to establish if you can improve your tax liabilities on your investment assets and income. For example, holding investments within an approved life assurance contract can provide considerable tax advantages in Spain.

Regular reviews

Even if you have re-structured your capital investments since moving to Spain, it is still important to review your portfolio

around once a year to confirm if it remains on track. Your personal circumstances may have changed, or your risk weighting may have shifted as values rise and fall, in which case you may need to re-balance it.

To ensure your portfolio is both tax efficient and suitable for you today and into the future, spend time with a professional financial adviser so they can get to know you and your objectives and recommend highly personalised wealth management that covers investing, tax and estate planning.

This article should not be construed as providing any personalised taxation or investment advice. Summarised tax information is based upon our understanding of current laws and practices which may change. Individuals should seek personalised advice.

Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at www.blevinsfranks.com.

Anna Ellis ALMERIA bid a spirited farewell to the European Mobility Week on a sunny Sunday, September 24, right in the heart of El Toyo.

The event proved to be a massive hit, with more than 220 enthusiastic participants coming together for a day of sport, camaraderie, and environmental consciousness.

The festivities were thoughtfully divided to cater to all age groups and interests, offering races for the youngest residents, invigorating hikes, and thrilling runs.

The event featured special

Noble cause

distances designed with children in mind, ensuring everyone had a chance to partake in the excitement.

Meanwhile, the adults embarked on challenging six or 12­kilometre journeys, show­

casing their athletic prowess while enjoying the stunning Almerian landscape. In a commendable move, €2 out of every €12 registration fee was dedicated to the noble cause of reforestation.

New additions

THE province of Almeria is set to welcome two exciting new channel additions to its television lineup: 7TV Almeria and 7TV Poniente.

The official presentation of these channels took place at the Carrida Plaza Business Centre.

Among the distinguished guests who graced the occasion, including various provincial authorities, was Gabriel Amat, the mayor of Roquetas de Mar. During his address, Mayor Gabriel Amat not only congratulated the two new Publica­

ciones del Sur channels on reaching their 35th anniversary, but also extended his warmest wishes for their future endeavours. His support for these new ventures reflects the significance of such media outlets in fostering community connection and information dissemination.

Furthermore, Mayor Amat demonstrated his commitment to collaboration, emphasising his readiness to contribute to initiatives that ultimately benefit the citizens of Almeria.

SUNNY SUNDAY: The Mobility Week was a massive hit.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Almeria / Facebook

Expanding horizons

THE Huercal de Almeria Town Council has just unveiled an interesting development that promises to transform the town’s landscape. With great excitement, the council has announced the acquisition of a sprawling plot, encompassing more than 40,000 square metres, along Camino Almazara.

This parcel of land will soon become the canvas for a future fairground, a peri­urban park, and a vibrant concert area. Nestled in the southeastern embrace of the urban centre, these lands are a precious part of the unique agricultural tapestry known as the Vega del Andarax. With an expansive total area of 40,182 square metres, these acquired grounds hold the potential to redefine community spaces.

The council’s commitment is evident in their investment of €202,000.

Anna Ellis

ON Saturday September 23, Almeria Airport played host to over 20 ‘spotters’, a passionate community of aeronautical photography enthusiasts.

This event marked the airport’s second open day, dedicated to fans of aviation photography.

The group received a warm welcome from the airport’s director, Ignacio Tejero, as they gathered during the early morning rush of flight activity.

They seized this opportunity to capture stunning images of aircraft arriving and departing from destinations such as Paris, Melilla, Madrid, Brussels, Rotter­

GET ready for an exciting month­long celebration of flavours and culinary delights in the Almanzora Valley!

From October 1 to 31, the municipality is holding its very first Almanzora Flavour Route, where local eateries will be serving up their most mouthwatering dishes and tapas for you to savour and enjoy.

dam, London, and Birmingham.

To facilitate this, a designated spotting area was carefully arranged in a prime location, just a stone’s throw from the runway.

From here, they had a breathtaking backdrop featuring the striking landscapes of Cabo de Gata and the Bay of Almeria.

Following their photography session, participants

Plane spotters Flavour Route

had a unique opportunity to meet the airport’s feathered guardians: birds of prey responsible for maintaining operational security.

Additionally, they explored the Fire Fighting Service facilities and even had a glimpse into the bustling control tower.

This day not only celebrated the art of aeronautical photography, but also offered an exclusive glimpse into the behind­the­scenes operations that keep Almeria Airport running smoothly.

Sail with success

AS the summer sun kisses the Spanish coast, the Port of Almeria emerged as the star of Operation Crossing the Strait (OPE), securing its place as the second busiest port in Spain.

From June 15 to September 15, an impressive 555,062 passengers chose the Almeria docks for their voyage between Europe and North Africa, transforming this maritime adventure into an unforgettable journey.

“Investing over half a million euros, the operation unfolded seamlessly and securely within the port’s well­prepared facilities,” emphasised Rosario Soto, the president of the Port Authority of Almería (APA).

Here’s how it works: When you visit any of the participating bars or restaurants, you’ll find handy brochures waiting for you.

Try out your favourite creations from each place, and be

sure to ask for a stamp on your booklet.

Collect three stamps from different establishments, snap a photo of your stamped booklet, and send it along with your contact details by

WhatsApp to (+34) 668 802 214.

By doing so, you’ll automatically enter our exciting draw to win an incredible assortment of goodies from 19 amazing local producers.

Think home­made sausages, jars of honey, luscious jams, traditional sweets, and so much more!

The same person can participate with more than one booklet, as long as the stamps are from different establishments than those in the other booklets.

Only people over the age of 18 can participate.

“This annual spectacle isn’t just an event; it’s the lifeblood of the APA, contributing nearly 50 per cent of its revenue, enabling the realisation of ambitious projects such as the port­city development.”

This year’s OPE marked an 8.3 per cent increase in travellers compared to the previous year.

The ferries linking Almeria to the ports of Melilla, Nador (Morocco), and the Algerian ports of Oran and Ghazaouet carried a staggering 132,474 vehicles.

OPEN DAY: Dedicated to fans of aviation photography.

Image: AENA

Bustling Berja

Anna Ellis

BERJA has been welcoming visitors with open arms during the first seven months of this year, from January to July.

According to data from the National Statistical Institute (INE), a total of 11,443 people explored the beauty of the town.

While this number is slightly less than the 12,217 tourists that were hosted during the same period in 2022, it’s important to note that tourism has dipped by just 6.3 per cent.

Interestingly, national tourists have outshined international ones, with 9,738 visitors from

Spain, which is a 24.9 per cent decrease compared to last year.

Meanwhile, 2,479 visitors from other parts of the world graced us with their presence, marking a 13.4 per cent decline compared to the same months in 2021.

Last month, 1,757 tourists wandered Berja’s streets, which is just a little less than in July 2022, with a 7.7 per cent decrease.

The town hosted 407 international guests, a 1.7 per cent drop from the previous year, while 1,350 national tourists explored the city, experiencing a 9.3 per cent decrease.

Roquetas fire

IN a recent incident in the town of Roquetas de Mar, a woman fell victim to smoke inhalation during a house fire.

Emergencies 112 Andalucia reported the incident.

On September 23, just minutes before 1.00pm

the emergency hotline, 112, received the first of several distress calls regarding a house fire on Calle Cavilanes.

Swiftly, the coordination team sprang into action, dispatching the Poniente Consortium Firefighters, the Guardia

Civil, and the Local Police to the scene.

Upon arrival, they urgently requested medical assistance for a pregnant woman suffering from smoke exposure.

As of now, the exact cause of the fire remains undisclosed.

Fully equipped open plan kitchen working well withhe rest of the house. withherestofthehouse. ppp pp

Population surge

IN a remarkable comeback, Almeria has once again breached the coveted threshold of 200,000 inhabitants, a population landmark last seen in 2020.

With a vibrant community now numbering 201,775 residents, the city has added a robust 2,001 souls to its fold in just one year, defying the odds and showcasing its enduring appeal.

This surge in population reaffirms Almeria’s prominent standing as it proudly takes its place among the 30 most densely inhabited municipalities in all of Spain.

Pedal power

Anna Ellis HUERCAL ­ OVERA:

On September 24, the town witnessed an awe ­ inspiring Bike Day that shattered all previous records, leaving an indelible mark on the community’s spirit.

With over 500 enthusiastic participants, this year’s event reached new heights of excitement and community involvement.

The resounding success of Bike Day left everyone in awe and gratitude.

The town hall has extended its heartfelt appreciation to each and ev­

ery individual who contributed to this milestone achievement.

“Whether you were a rider, a volunteer, or simply a cheering supporter on the sidelines, your presence and dedication made the day an unforgettable celebration of pedal power.”

ARE you struggling to learn the lingo? Unlock the beauty of language and culture in Arboleas!

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling journey of language and culture? Arboleas Town Hall is thrilled to announce that registration is now open for Spanish Classes!

For more information head to Arboleas Town Hall, Plaza de España, 1, 04660 Arboleas or call (+34) 950 449 430.

Arboleas’ Spanish Classes offer a vibrant and immersive learning experience.

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to brush up on your skills, this course will guide you through the rich tapestry of the Spanish language and culture.

Enrol now and open the door to new friendships, experiences, and a world of possibilities.

Have a voice

ARE you a resident of the ‘Los Patricios’ neighbourhood? Your input matters!

Join mayor, Felipe Cayuela, and mouncillor, Ana Maria Caparros, in a community gathering to discuss your opinions and needs regarding the neighbourhood.

This important event will take place on Friday, September 29, at 6.30pm on Calle San Blas.

Your voice plays a crucial role in shaping the future of your neighbourhood, and the town hall is eager to hear your thoughts.

Don’t miss this opportunity to share your insights and engage in the conversation on September 29 at Calle San Blas. Your participation can make a real difference!

BIKE DAY: Broke records.

Spain is a safe country

John Ensor

ON Wednesday, September 20, in Salamanca’s Plaza Mayor, the interim Interior Minister, Fernando Grande­Marlaska, chaired the main festivities marking Police Day. He commended the National Police’s efforts, asserting that their dedication is a key reason why ‘Spain is one of the safest countries in the world’.

The events were reported by the National Police which culminated in the celebration of the Holy Guardian Angels, the National Police’s patron saints. Present alongside Grande ­ Marlaska were notable figures including Rafael Perez, Secretary of State for Security, Francisco Pardo, the Police’s general director, Virginia Barcones, the Government'’s delegate in Castilla y Leon, and Salamanca’s mayor, Carlos Garcia.

In his address, Grande ­ Marlaska emphasised, “Spain is one of the safest countries in the world, our high degree of citizen security is one of the factors that has contributed the most to strengthening our institutions by allowing a model of peaceful and social coexistence. Tolerant, accessible and inclusive.”

Looking ahead, Grande ­ Marlaska noted the National Police will celebrate its 200th anniversary on January 13, 2024. He expressed hope for the force’s con ­

tinued relevance and growth: “The National Police of the future will be egalitarian.” He firmly declared, “The Police of the future will be feminine or it will cease to exist.”

Highlighting recent efforts to bolster female representation, he announced, “we will continue to adopt innovative measures to achieve real equality between women and men.”

The event also saw the presentation of police merit awards. These accolades recognised outstanding contributions to the police’s image and honoured members of other security forces. Seven police dogs from the Canine Guide Unit received special mentions.

A poignant ‘in memoriam’ ceremony paid tribute to officers who lost their lives in the line of duty over the force’s 199­year history.

National Police almost 200 years old.

Credit: Policia Nacional/X

BUDGET airline Ryanair has been ordered to pay more than €115,000 to a cabin crew member for unfairly sacking him in 2019.

The court condemned Ryanair for preventing its workers from exercising their right to strike. In this case, the Social Court of Malaga upheld the cabin crew members’ claim that the airline violated his fundamental rights when he refused to comply with last minute

Ryanair rebuked

flight changes to his schedule.

The last minute changes that Ryanair wanted to impose were refused by the cabin crew member, who was subsequently sacked for ‘failing to provide minimum services’. The man had worked for Ryanair for 12 years.

The judge upheld the claim and declared the annulment of the dismissal, ordering Ryanair to reinstate the worker and pay him €95,268 in wages not received since his dismissal, which was December 2019. Likewise, the judge also upheld the worker’s claim to receive compen­ dered the company to pay the costs of the trial.

A MAN died after being brutally gored by a bull in the municipality of La Pobla de Farnals in Valencia on Saturday, September 23. The incident occurred at around 7.30pm during a bull run that was taking place as part of local festivities in the town. According to levante­emv.com, the animal known as ‘Cocinero’ belonged to the Luis Algarra ranch, which was supplying the bulls.

As soon as he was let out of his box, the bull gored two people violently, pinning them up against the bars of a house that was on the route being used for the run. One of the bull’s victims, a 62­yearold, was transferred in an ambulance to Valencia Clinical Hospital after sustaining four wounds, including one to his side that affected the lung and liver and he subsequently died at around 11pm that same evening.

The second man who was also said to be in his 60s was gored in both legs and taken to hospital.

Bull run tragedy

Bullfighting for her opinion.

She said: “Bull fiestas are of course an outdated and cruel event that the overwhelming majority of Spanish want abolishing.

After hearing the tragic news, the Pobla de Farnals Council and the Comissió de Bous club, to which both men belonged, decided to suspend the celebrations that had been planned for Saturday night.

Sunday’s Sant Francesc procession and fireworks display ­ which had already been postponed last week due to the DANA ­ was also cancelled.

Euro Weekly News asked Natasha Retzman, the founder of Mallorca Against

“It is not acceptable to treat sentient beings in this way. In the same way, parties such as the running of the bulls are not only recklessly cruel for the animal but when a large, frightened animal is put in a situation to defend itself, there will always be a high risk of danger and injury to the people in the streets,” Natasha continued.

“The unfortunate accidents that happened in Valencia last week are yet another prime example as to why these ‘traditions’ belong firmly in the past. If this is not a wake­up call, what more do the Spanish government need to call an end to bull fiestas,” she concluded.

TRADITIONAL FIESTA: A typical bull run in Spain.

Credit: San Fermin Pamplona Pexels

RYANAIR: Unfairly sacked worker.

Credit: Kevin Hackett/Unsplash

Accessible cities

THERE are more and more initiatives in Spain that guarantee cultural tourism which is accessible to all. Adapted routes, specialised services, adapted facilities and accessible guides are now a reality in Spain.

Madrid’s culture is more accessible than ever. There are scheduled guided tours adapted for people with disabilities. Visit Madrid’s ‘art triangle’ in a wheelchair, without worrying about architectural barriers, go sightseeing or explore the district of Las Letras with voice­amplified guides, or experience the traditional Christmas celebrations to the full.

Two of the most accessible cultural areas in Barcelona are the Gothic Quarter and the Art Nouveau Route. The Gothic Quarter is part of the old city centre of Barcelona, around the Cathedral, which is accessible to peo­

ple with reduced mobility.

You can also visit the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, both accessible to people with reduced mobility.

The Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona and the Museum of the History of Catalonia are free of architectural barriers and offer accessible activities and information. Audioguides are also available.

Similarly, in Valencia you can explore the parks and sights along the former bed of the river Turia, the his ­

toric quarter, or the avantgarde City of Arts and Sciences, all of which are accessible, as are many more museums and monuments.

Thr European Commission has recognised the good practices of several destinations with the Access City Awards. These cities include Ávila, in Castilla y León; Pamplona, in Navarre; and Lugo and Vigo, in Galicia.

Avila’s city wall is an outstanding example ­ its most recent refurbishment includes access points for people with reduced mobility. In Pamplona, the walls of the Citadel are also accessible for people with reduced mobility. Lugo provides maps and information plaques in Braille on some sites, and pictograms to help people with autism enjoy the provincial museum. And in Vigo, lifts have been installed in places where there are changes in level on tours of the city.

Wheelchair accessibility.

Credit: Freepik

Spain abolishes motorway charges

THE Spanish government has agreed with Brussels that there will be no highway tolls in 2024. The agreement was met after the European Commission accepted the Spanish government’s proposal to “remove from the Recovery Plan the initial idea of introducing payment for the use of highways.”

A commission spokesperson confirmed that “Much progress has been made and constructive conversations are being held with the Spanish authorities with a view to finalising the evaluation as soon as possible”.

The agreement with the European Commission rejects highway tolls and instead promotes rail transport.

Eliminating tolls means finding alternative funding for road maintenance. The main issue is how to secure nearly €10 billion that is needed for road repairs. According to the Spanish Road Association, currently, 11 per cent of the road network in Spain (26,400 kilometres) is seriously deteriorated.

To be more precise, €9.918 billion is needed for road repairs: €3.261 billion for the national network (26,400 km) and €6.657 billion for regional and provincial governments’ networks (75,300 km).

However, finding this €9.918 billion without tolls or similar fees remains a significant challenge, as 95 per cent of it is needed for basic ‘replacement and road reinforcement’.

The agreement with Brussels rejects tolls and suggests transporting goods via railways. In Spain, 95.8 per cent of goods are transported by road, with only 1.2 per cent by rail, making the transition challenging.

Traffic on roads continues to grow faster than other modes of transport. While in the past year overall cargo transport increased by 5.7 per cent, road traffic surged by over 10 per cent.

Traffic on motorways also increased significantly, accounting for more than half of the country’s cargo movement.

As a result, roads are becoming increasingly congested, making a seamless transition from lorries to trains unrealistic. While the government’s plan hints at this direction, it requires substantial investments in both funding and logistics.

Cruise tax warning

SIMON CALDER has issued a warning to people going on a cruise around Spain. The expert is renowned for his travel advice and regularly shares the latest guidance on Good Morning Britain, Lorraine and This Morning. In his Independent

column, he has explained how some cruise ship passengers on Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) are being hit with charges during their trips.

The expert explained on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter: “When is an ‘inclusive

drinks package’ not inclusive? On Norwegian Cruise Line voyages that include Spain.

“Passengers who sign up for the Free at Sea deal don’t get entirely free drinks: they must pay the tax on anything they consume within Spanish waters.”

The expert explained the Free at Sea package typically costs £20 per person per day and includes all inclusive drinks and wifi. However, voyages beginning at ports in Spain and, and while in Spain territorial waters during other cruises, attract 10 per cent in VAT on drink.

Simon explained NCL passengers were told: “10 per cent VAT will be applied to all food and beverage purchases made on board, including purchases made under our Unlimited Open Bar or Speciality Dining packages, for certain sailings departing from Spain or any European itinerary while in Spanish waters.”

TOLL BOOTHS: There will be no highway tolls in 2024.

DENMARK

Cannabis disposal

DENMARK has disposed of 145,000 kilograms of cannabis, primarily from its medical cannabis programme. Government data reveals that over 300 permits were granted for intentional destruction, involving companies authorised to cultivate within the country's pilot programme. Numerous factors led to the disposal of these significant cannabis quantities.

Border control

A RECENT EU court ruling mandates that Denmark cannot turn away non-EU citizens at its borders with Germany or Sweden if they have legal residency in any EU country. The decision, based on the 'Returns' Directive, emphasises procedural adherence and applies even to those apprehended within Denmark's territory.

Marina award

THE award for the Best International Marina has been won by Vilamoura Marina on the Algarve, for the seventh time in eight years. This prestigious titleawarded by The Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) - was once again bestowed on the Portuguese marina during the Southampton International Boat Show 2023.

NORWAY FRANCE

Price hike

NORWAY's central statistical bureau, Statistisk sentralbyrå (SSB), reported a 4.8 per cent annual price increase, though it's a decrease from earlier this year. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is now 4.8 per cent higher than a year ago, with food prices still 9.3 per cent higher year-on-year.

Ice arrow

A 4,000-YEAR-OLD arrow has been unearthed on Norway's Mount Lauvhøe, courtesy of the Secret of the Ice glacial archaeology programme. The melting ice in Innlandet since 2006 has unveiled a trove of artifacts, including textiles, transport tools, and leather. This discovery sheds light on ancient life in the Jotunheimen Mountains.

Wine fatality

WINEMAKER Marco Bettolini, 46, tragically died attempting to rescue his colleague Alberto Pin from a vat of wine at Ca'di Rajo winery in Italy, both overcome by toxic fumes. The incident, highlighting a lack of safety equipment, has intensified concerns and calls for enhanced workplace safety measures in Italy.

Air tragedy

A FRECCE Tricolori plane crashed at an air show in Turin, due to a suspected bird strike, tragically killing five-year-old Laura Origliasso and injuring her family. The pilot ejected and survived. The incident, marking the Italian Air Force's 100th anniversary, has drawn national grief and responses from Italian political figures.

Price plunge

GERMAN housing prices experienced their sharpest drop on record due to highinterest rates and rising materials costs. Residential property prices fell by 9.9 per cent YoY, the steepest decline since 2000. Larger cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich saw apartment prices drop by 9.8 per cent.

Nagelsmann named

JULIAN NAGELSMANN has been confirmed as the new head coach for the German national football team. He will lead the team until the end of the European Championships next summer. Nagelsmann takes over from Hansi Flick, who was dismissed after a series of poor results in September.

Troops withdraw

EMMANUEL MACRON, the president of France, announced on Sunday, September 24, that French troops will be withdrawn from Niger. “We are ending our military cooperation in Niger. The soldiers deployed there will also return by the end of the year,” he confirmed. “The French ambassador to Niger as well as the diplomatic staff present there will also return to France,” Macron indicated.

Bad sardines

AT least 15 customers of a restaurant in the French city of Bordeaux were identified by the local authorities as 'suspected cases of botulism' after eating sardines. Meticulous work by the health authorities in the French city allowed all 15 potential patients to be located, one of whom tragically died. They were all verified to have been customers of the Tchin Tchin Wine Bar between September 4 and 10.

Flight detour

A TURKISH Airlines flight from Dublin made a U-turn after Garda National Immigration Bureau detectives identified an on-board suspect wanted for serious assault.

The non-Turkish foreign national was arrested upon return and faces charges in Ireland, with no bail request made.

Rescue triumph

IRISH entrepreneur Niall Harbison's rescue dog, Buttons, abandoned in Thailand, has found a new home with Oasis star Liam Gallagher after a 10,000km journey. Harbison, founder of Lovin' Dublin, now dedicates his life to rescuing street dogs in Thailand, aiming to save 10,000 dogs monthly.

Long life

BELGIUM’S oldest person, Magda Janssens who was born in Deurne, Antwerp, Belgium on March 16, 1912 died in her sleep on Monday September 18 aged 111. Longevity ran in her family as her sister lived until she was 103, although she lost her first husband at an early age, but her second died at 96.

Bike index

BICYCLE theft in Belgium is becoming a major problem and although thieves prefer ebikes and scooters, the humble pushbike is now a target, so the Brussels registration scheme is to be expanded across the country from 2024, with participants receiving a special identification sticker to place on their bikes.

THE NETHERLANDS FINLAND

IRELAND PORTUGAL SWEDEN

Remembering victims

THREE memorial benches were unveiled on September 19 in the municipality of Zwartewaterland, in memory of the victims of Covid-19. The three towns of Hasselt, Genemuiden, and Zwartsluis within the municipality were among the hardest hit during the first weeks of the pandemic.

Transfer tax

SCHIPOL Airport in Amsterdam is one of the busiest European hubs for transfer passengers but an in principle decision by the Dutch Parliament is likley to see a special transfer tax being applied to passengers which could be as expensive as €26 per person and is opposed by the airport and Dutch carrier KLM.

Dark web

EUROPEAN law enforcement, led by Finnish Customs and supported by Europol, successfully dismantled 'Piilopuoti', a Finnish dark web marketplace notorious for illicit trade, operating since May 2022. The crackdown precedes the annual Dark Web Conference at Europol’s headquarters. Investigations continue to identify platform users.

Cold War

RAF Typhoons and Norwegian F-35s trained in Finland, reviving Cold War tactics of landing on roads, amid rising tensions with Russia. This marked the British Typhoon's first Finnish road landing, showcasing capabilities for dispersed operations. The exercise anticipates similar F35B operations in the UK and Finland's F-35 acquisition in 2026.

Motorway sinkhole

A LANDSLIDE in Southern Sweden caused a giant sinkhole to open next to the E6 motorway that connects the city of Gothenburg with Oslo in Norway. Three people were hospitalised after at least four cars left the road, along with a bus. An area of approximately 14,000 m² was affected - which is roughly equivalent to 21 football pitches - with the hole measuring some five to six metres in depth.

Koran denied

SWEDISH police denied serial Koran-burner Salwan Momika permission to hold a planned demonstration in Malmö. He had presented a written application to burn another Koran, but Rickard Lundqvist, a spokesperson for the police, said: “We have made the assessment we cannot guarantee public order and security at the gathering.” Two people were arrested after violent riots broke out in Rosengård the last time.

The Marina of Vilamoura. CREDIT: EDUARD MARMET/CREATIVE COMMONS ATTRIBUTION-SHARE ALIKE 2.0

BUSINESS EXTRA

Payback time

POST OFFICE staff whose erroneous convictions for theft and false accounting were overturned will be offered £600,000 (€694,818) each in compensation, the government announced. Approximately 700 prosecutions were based on evidence from flawed accounting software, making it appear that money was missing from branches.

Out of play

PLANS to float Barça Media, the football club’s content creation subsidiary, for $900 million (€973 million) in New York have been put back until March 2024. Shareholders in specially­created Mountain & Co voted in favour of the delay, although some investors have already withdrawn 6 per cent of their funds.

Track record

AVANTI, regarded as one of the UK’s least reliable train operators, won a long­term contract to continue providing intercity services on the West Coast Main line. Transport secretary, Mark Harper, claimed that Avanti was “back on track” although fewer than half of Avanti services ran on time between April and June.

Rato trial

RODRIGO RATO, ex­president of Bankia, ex­government minister and the International Monetary Fund’s former managing director, stands trial in Madrid in December. Rato, 74, who served four­and­a­half years for misappropriation of public funds, is accused of several crimes including tax evasion, money­laundering and corruption.

Harsh taste

NAKED WINES founder and chairman Rowan Gormley apologised to shareholders while reporting losses of £15 million (€17.37 million) for the year ending on April 3 after new sales dropped from £34 million (€39.37) to £26.9 million (€31.15 million). “Falling disposable incomes have put pressure on sales and costs,” Gormley said.

STAT OF WEEK €12 billion

foreign investment in Spain - principally Madrid, Valencian Community and Catalonia - during 2023’s first half was 26 per cent less than the same period last year.

Last orders Steel’s future assured

Linda Hall

THE UK government and Mumbai­based Tata agreed a £1.2 billion (€1.38 billion) deal securing the Port Talbot steelworks.

This safeguards 5,000 of 8,000 UK jobs, 4,000 of which are based at the Welsh plant.

Had the government not intervened with a grant worth approximately £500 million (€578.3 million), Tata Steel would have closed the Port Talbot works and left the UK, Welsh secretary David TC Davies said in a BBC Wales interview.

This would also have affected other areas as Tata

has operations based in Shotton, Llanwern, Trostre, Corby, Hartlepool and Shapfell, he said.

Davies agreed it was “terribly sad” that not all jobs could be saved, announcing that £100 million (€115.6 million) would help those who lost their employment.

“Tata are currently losing

MERCADONA has strengthened its position as Spain’s leading supermarket, Kantar Worldpanel said.

Despite rivals’ growth and a relatively shaky start to the year, Mercadona reversed a tendency to reduce its market share that was detected in the first quarter of this year, according to the market research specialists.

The Valencia­based company headed by Juan Roig finished the summer with a share not far short of 27 per cent, Kantar now finds.

Mercadona’s 26.1 per cent quota between January and August was three10ths of a percentage point more than during the same period last year, exceeding the quotas of its four closest rivals added together.

Not-so-simple

THE Solidarity Tax on Spain’s largest fortunes, introduced at the end of last year, has brought in 60 per cent less than expected. Hacienda, Spain’s Finance ministry which is headed by Maria Jesus Montero, calculated in 2022 that the temporary tax introduced to alleviate the cost­ofliving crisis had the potential to collect an annual €1.5 billion. Instead, the public purse has received just €623 million, with 10,032 Madrid residents paying the lion’s share of €555 million. Although Hacienda initially estimated that the tax would affect 23,000 taxpayers, it has been paid by 12,010, according to figures released on September 20.

over £1 million (€1.16 million) a day at Port Talbot,” the Welsh secretary added. “No company is ever going to accept losses like that, so they decided they were going to close the plant down.”

Davies went on to explain that once it became aware of the danger, the

government began negotiating and asked, “What do we need to do to keep Tata here?”

The £1.2 billion deal entails substituting the existing coal­powered blast furnaces, which are nearing the end of their effective life, with electric arc furnaces powered by renewable energy. As a result, the UK’s entire carbon emissions will fall by around 1.5 per cent.

Instead of producing virgin steel, the Port Talbot works will now produce recycled steel, with Tata investing an additional £700 million (€809.6 million).

Own label bonanza

Supermarkets’ own­label items accounted for a record 43.5 per cent of fast­moving goods, without taking into account fresh products, although Kantar predicted this would eventually decelerate.

THE first six months of 2023 saw 383 pubs close permanently in England and Wales.

This practically equals the 386 which shut down in 2022, prompting Chris Jowsey, chief executive of the Admiral Taverns group, to warn that rates relief was vital for the survival of many pubs.

More closures could follow, he added, if chancellor Jeremy Hunt went ahead with his plans to eliminate the existing 75 per cent rebate on business rates next March.

“Without it, costs for many pubs will rise dramatically by many thousands of pounds, fuelling inflation and forcing closure for many independents,” Jowsey said.

Big buildup

SPECIALIST magazine, the Engineering News ­ Record (ENR), again ranked the Turner Construction Company as the leading general building contractor in the US.

Carrefour remained unchanged at 9.9 cent while Lidl increased its market share by six­10ths of a percentage point to 6.5 per cent. Eroski took fourth place with a 4.4 per cent share after Dia lost four­10ths of a percentage point.

Inflation surprise

THE UK’s annual inflation rate dipped slightly to 6.7 per cent in August.

The Bank of England, City and Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt, had foreseen a slight increase to 7 per cent owing to reduced growth in food prices and monthly reductions in hotel and air travel costs.

The latest drop from July’s 6.8 per cent was the sixth consecutive fall in the headline inflation figure which includes commodities like food and energy.

Analysts pointed out that this does not imply prices are falling but means they are increasing more slowly.

Food and drink prices rose by 13.6 per cent in the year ending in August and although this was lower than the highest inflation rate of 19.1 per cent earlier this year, it is still historically high.

“Price rises are partly responsible as increases were higher for branded goods,” Kantar’s Bernardo Rodilla said. Once these were more in line with manufacturers’ prices, the increased own label sales would slow down, he added.

The secret to Mercadona’s success, Rodilla said, was its decision last April to reduce the prices of 500 own­label products.

All above board

NEITHER Saudi Arabia’s STC, nor its intermediary Morgan Stanley, acted illegally in acquiring a 9.9 per cent holding in Telefonica

Spain’s National Securities Market Commission (CNMV) ruled out irregularities after its investigators examined recent reports that Morgan Stanley secretly built up STC’s €2.1 billion stake.

Instead it found that the bank initially obtained just under 3 per cent over an unspecified period before acquiring the remaining 7 per cent and announcing the entire 9.9 per cent to the CNMV on September 5.

Consequently, neither STC nor Morgan Stanley infringed regulations that require investors to notify holdings of more than 3 per cent, the CNMV announced.

Turner’s $16.25 billion (€15.14 billion) revenues last year put it ahead of Bechtel, the US’s other leading contractor, the ENR announced.

The company is a subsidiary of ACS, the Spanish multinational company which is headed by Florentino Perez, president of the Real Madrid football club.

Turner was also recognised by the ENR as the country’s Number One Green Contractor for the 16th consecutive year.

Charge for returns

THE H&M fashion chain is the latest retailer to charge shoppers for returning items that have been bought online.

Brought into line with Zara, Boohoo, Uniqlo and Next, who all charge for returns, H&M is now asking customers to pay £1.99 (€2.30) when returning an internet purchase online or instore, with the cost deducted from their refund.

Returns will still be free for H&M members, the retailer said. Sector insiders said returns were “a headache” as this meant warehouse staff took longer to process stock.

PORT TALBOT: Steelworks’ closure threat averted.

MERCADONA: Bigger market share than its four closest rivals added together.

Photo credit: Flickr/Nina Ding

- FTSE 100

DOW JONES

BUSINESS EXTRA

Tram fiasco

A PUBLIC enquiry into Edinburgh’s tram line said its real cost reached well over £1 billion (€1.15 billion) through a ‘litany of avoidable failures’. The report concluded that Tie, the company contracted to deliver the line, Edinburgh Council and Scottish ministers shared the blame for cost overruns, delays and damage to the city’s economy.

Rain check

THIS year’s olive oil production was one of the worst in a long time, generating 663,000 tons according to Spain’s Agriculture ministry, a reduction of 55.57 per cent on the previous campaign and the lowest so far this century. Producers now hope that a rainy finish to September will help save next year’s crop.

FCA debunks debanking

Linda Hall

THE UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) found no evidence that banks closed or denied accounts owing to customers’ politics or opinions.

A preliminary review by Britain’s financial regulator, prompted by the Nigel Farage debanking controversy, established that accounts were closed, suspended or denied when they were inactive or concerns existed regarding finance irregularities.

“While no bank, building society or payment firm reported that they had closed accounts primarily due to someone’s political views,

AVE looks east

SPAIN’S state­owned rail operator Renfe hopes to attract Chinese tourists with highspeed travel during the high season.

Apart from passengers heading for the coast, AVEs are less­used for business trips and Renfe has signed an agreement allowing China’s biggest tour operator, Trip.com.Group, to sell AVE tickets online.

China is now one of the world’s largest

tourism sources, with visitors spending ‘substantially more’ than those from other countries, Trip.com.Group said. In 2019, Spain received 700,000 Chinese tourists, who usually remained in the country for a week and spent an average of €2,407 per person. Approximately 136,000 Chinese tourists visited Spain in the first half of this year, spending €421 million, an average of €3,106 per person.

Next best

further work is needed for us to be sure,” the FCA’s chief executive, Nikhil Rathi admitted.

This entails checking initial information from 34 banks, building societies and payment companies, including cases where accounts were shut down if customers were considered a ‘reputational risk’.

Banks may decide who they accept as clients and can, for instance, legally refuse to do business with persons subject to UK or international sanctions as well as those ‘closely associated’ with them.

The FCA nevertheless added that it wanted to be sure criteria were not being interpreted “too broadly.”

Former UK leader Nigel Farage who was debanked by exclusive Coutts, which deals only with the wealthy, described the report as a “complete and utter farce” and called for sackings at the FCA.

NEXT increased its full­year profit expectations for the third time in four months while predicting that prices could dip next spring. The fashion retailer raised its annual profit guidance by £30 million (€34.6 million) to £875 million (€1 billion), explaining that better ranges, a sunny spring and pay rises for many of its habitual customers had boosted sales.

Store deal

EL CORTE INGLES has sold for €60 million the goodwill of 47 of its 189 Supercor supermarkets to Carrefour in areas in Madrid, Catalonia, Andalucia and the Valencian Community which it no longer considers strategic. The department store chain, which retains the properties belonging to it, announced that the transaction included “certain obligations with regard to maintaining employment.”

NIGEL FARAGE: Former UK leader unhappy with FCA report.

Photo credit: CC/Gage Skidmore

Where’s all the fun

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

WOW. Delighted to see the tremendous support for the ol boy published in the last week’s edition. Nice to know that enduring readers and their clear thinking cohorts are still seriously seeking some justification for the often totally biased existence we seem to be experiencing in these days of doom and gloom. Where’s all the fun gone?

Well, I’m afraid that’s about the last thing the devotees of the left want us to experience before the next election. About a year ago, I said they would need to keep up all the depressive reporting for at least another two years if they were to continue raising support for the Labour brigade. Well they’re still managing. Every news report that contains some glint of better tidings or somewhat cheerier content is reduced to a minimum.

Accounts of further misery and depression are scooped up with gusto and

spread like marauding plagues of locusts. We already know that the unions are preparing two more major strikes for the approaching winter. Firmly in league with the left, the union bosses are fully prepared to relinquish their luxury abodes on the Costas until they win the battle and are subsequently better able to enjoy some long, financially wellheeled vacations.

Closer to home this week came a call I had from a dear friend in the UK. She was almost distraught into what is happening to their customary way of life. She works in a bridal gown shop and has just been informed (by the not too happy owners) that she can no longer address her new customers as Ladies!

Why? Well apparently just because they may not be.

You really couldn’t make it up. ‘Good morning she/her, he/him, they/them, how can I help you’? The mind boggles. She also told me, even more seriously, that she has now been informed by the principle of her eight ­year­old daughter’s new school that her offspring is not allowed to be referred to as a ‘young girl’!

NO NEW TOLLS OUR VIEW

Lord only knows how she’ll actually be referred to. Can you truly believe that this absolute balderdash is being allowed to flourish in the beautiful nation millions of our ancestors fought and died for? Well it sure infuriates me.

Do you know what one of the reasons is for all this idiotic confusion that is being invented by these apparent imbeciles? No? Well give it a thought. All these crackpots hold positions that are the source of their incomes. The only way to keep their jobs is to keep presenting situations and inventing new rules; especially for minorities. It’s irrelevant how ridiculous and difficult they are. As long as it presents confusion and chaos among the majority of normal citizens their power mad bosses will be satisfied and the underling’s bank balances will be happily kept filled by the continuance of their jobs and incomes.

Piece o’ cake. Gee’s a job, I could come up with some great complications and obstacles for minorities. Well, you never know. What goes around… Keep the faith.

Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail.com expatradioscotland.com

SPAIN tends to class many roads as motorways whilst in the UK they would be known as dual carriageways and many are busy and in a poor state of repair.

Anxious to implement changes so that drivers are discouraged from taking their cars on long distances, the European Union wanted to see some form of toll on all roads classed as motorways across all member states.

Even though there is only a ‘caretaker’ government in power until such time as President of the Government is sworn in (or indeed there is another General Election), negotiations have continued and the European Union has given Spain special dispensation to leave the motorways toll free.

This doesn’t mean the current toll roads will be free, but motorists won’t suddenly find themselves spending even more on travel costs.

All well and good, but there is always a quid pro quo in political negotiations and in this case, the government has undertaken to promote the use of rail to transport goods but no­one quite knows how this is going to happen.

Lorry drivers clearly won’t want to see their business reduced and it wasn’t so long ago that independent hauliers caused a reasonable amount of havoc by going on strike.

It is unlikely that this will happen in the foreseeable future as the rail system doesn’t have the infrastructure to carry more freight around the country and there are huge areas where track simply doesn’t exist.

Add to that the need for more rolling stock suitable for goods and the cost would most probably be prohibitive but with no new money coming in from additional road tolls, then how will the government pay for road repairs?

Victoria Car Hire UK Self Drive

WE are based in Horley town centre, just five minutes’ drive from Gatwick airport and a short walk to Horley mainline railway station.

On offer is a range of cars starting with small everyday cars and up to family­sized vehicles to include manual and automatic transmission. We also have a variety of both petrol and diesel fuelled engines.

All cars are well maintained and presented in a clean condition.

We have full 24­hour AA breakdown cover.

The most popular brands used include: Ford, Vauxhall, Nissan, Citroen and Renault.

We meet our customers just outside the arrival terminal at Gatwick Airport at the authorised collection points at both the North and South terminals. We will then drive to the car rental office in Horley town centre, where the paperwork and payment are processed followed by a demonstration of the car controls and directions to the motorway if required.

The collection procedure is very efficient, taking a small amount of time and

A range of cars offered.

allowing the customer to swiftly proceed with their onward journey.

At the end of the hire the customer returns the car to the rental office and will be driven to the departure terminal at Gatwick Airport.

Office hours are 9am ­ 4pm Monday to Friday, weekends by arrangement

An out of hours service is available for late arrivals and early morning departures. Subject to conditions.

Prices are from £110.00 per week, which is fully inclusive with no hidden extras, the fuel in the vehicles are taken on a like for like basis ­ if the tank is half full, it must be returned as so.

Debit and Credit card payment accepted. No hidden extras - Fully Inclusive - Delivery & Collection - Gatwick Airport only Reservations: Monday - Friday, 9am - 4pm Telephone: 0044 1293 432155 / jpselfdrive@hotmail.co.uk

ROMANCE SCAMS:

HOW TO AVOID BECOMING A CATFISHING VICTIM

By Emma Mitchell

CATFISHING describes the activity of criminals creating fake profiles on Social Media in order to target a victim for financial gain. The most common form of catfishing has become the romance scam. Romance scams are big business; the FBI reported that in 2022 around 73,000 Americans lost more than one billion dollars to these types of scams. We’ve put together some startling facts about romance scams:

● 324 million people use dating apps globally.

One in 10 dating profiles are fake.

IT CAN HAPPEN TO ANYONE HOW TO SPOT A ROMANCE SCAMMER

● They are never local. The scammer will normally say they live overseas because they need a plausible excuse for not arranging a date.

● Their background promotes trust. Romance scammers often say that they’re military veterans, ex­police forces or some other career which immediately makes victims trust them more.

● Attractive profile photos. Scammers tend to use photos of attractive people they’ve found on the Internet or even other dating sites to reel victims in.

● Moving you off­platform. A romance scammer will want to move victims off the dating app or social media platform they met them on to a more private channel such as WhatsApp.

● No video calls. The scammer won’t video call since they are not who they say they are. The excuses will range from poor Internet connections to lack of privacy.

● The relationship moves fast. Romance scammers profess deep emotions very quickly; often in a matter of days or a few weeks. They may shower victims with compliments (known as ‘love bombing’) and talk about being together.

● They need money. They aim to earn their victim’s trust and then get them to part with money. Sometimes they don’t directly ask for money, but spin a story about some emergency situation and wait for their victim to offer financial help.

WE spoke to a lady on Social Media who has been the victim of a romance scam. Paula met her scammer on a dating site aimed at middle­aged singles. He posed as a 63­year­old retired US Army Captain living in Florida and she described him as, “A good looking bloke; slim, tanned and smiling.” Paula had recently divorced and that made her more susceptible to his story of going through an acrimonious divorce himself.

Her scammer escalated the relationship very quickly, saying he had never had such a deep connection with someone so soon and that he was developing strong emotions for her.

Initially she sent over $1,000 US when he suggested that he fly to Spain to meet her and, if all went well, that he would stay with her and apply for a Visa. “He said he couldn’t buy a plane ticket when all his statements were being looked at by divorce lawyers,” Paula told us.

Having sent him the money he kept pushing back flight dates, using family and his divorce as excuses. He then told Paula that he wanted to start the process of applying for a visa to allow him to stay in Spain. Paula told us, “I knew you had to show money in the bank and he kept saying money wasn’t a problem. He had a good pension from the army.”

Paula sent another $2,500 US after he told her that he was short of the full amount but was hoping to get it together with loans from friends until his divorce was settled. It was only after another few weeks of no movement that she started to get suspicious.

Credit: Federal

● Conduct an image search on the profile photo of the person and Google their name, plus where they say they come from and their job. Most real people leave a trace on Google or LinkedIn.

● Insist on a video call early on; if they have excuses that is a huge red flag.

● Ask about their life and background; where did they go to school? What is their family like? etc. Does every­

She told us, “I just started to get a sick feeling and kept asking him when he was getting the rest of the money from his friends. He started sending angrier messages saying he was trying his best and asking why I didn’t help instead of giving him a hard time.” He wanted a further $10,000 US to ‘plug the hole’. At this point Paula, who couldn’t afford that amount of cash anyway, said no.

Her scammer reacted initially by trying emotional blackmail and saying that he thought she felt the same way he did, but obviously not. When that didn’t work, he became angry and, finally, he simply stopped messaging her and disappeared. Paula said, “I went back on the dating site and his profile was gone. I was devastated as I knew then that it was a scam.”

She told us, “I feel so stupid. I worry that if I tell my children they’ll think that I’m not safe being in Spain on my own anymore.” She went on to say, “And I’m too ashamed to confide in my friends.”

TOP TIPS FOR AVOIDING ROMANCE SCAMS

thing add up or do some things feel a bit off?

● Be cynical. Don’t fall for compliments; examine every piece of information they give out critically. Write down the details they give and look for inconsistencies.

● Tell someone trusted about this new romantic inter­

est; share the details and get their opinion to avoid rosetinted glasses.

● Never, ever send money or buy them anything that can be cashed in.

No matter what the emergency seems to be, hold firm and say ‘no’.

A scammer will quickly lose interest in and move on to an easier victim.

One in three victims met the romance scammer on Social Media. 55 to 64 is the age group most of risk being a victim.

Embrace autumn fitness

THE transition from the heat of the Spanish summer to the cooler autumn requires a shift in exercise habits, especially for UK expats over 50.

Consider exploring different trails for brisk walking or engaging in community sports adapted to the season.

The change in weather brings opportunities to try new activities, keeping exercise fresh and enjoyable. Consult with local fitness experts to find routines that align with the cooler climate, ensuring continued health and wellbeing.

Magical Spanish clays

NATURE’S

finest skin detox Spain, with its diverse terrains, gifts us a beauty treasure: mineral­rich clays. For UK expats seeking natural skincare, Spanish clays are a revelation. Sourced from verdant valleys and sun ­ drenched plateaus, these clays are teeming with minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium. When crafted into face masks, they detoxify, removing impurities and

excess oil, giving the skin a clean, refreshed feel. But there’s more; they also nourish the skin, promoting a vibrant, youthful glow. As more of us lean towards earthsourced beauty, these Spanish clays stand out as potent, yet gentle, skincare allies. Dive into this Spanish secret and let your skin revel in nature’s purest indulgence.

Men over 50 skincare

GENTLEMEN , it’s time to elevate your skincare game and embrace the fountain of youth!

Men over 50 can achieve a vibrant and youthful complexion with a tailored skincare routine.

Start with a gentle cleanser to wash away impurities and follow up with a hydrating moisturiser to lock in moisture and combat dryness. Incorporate an anti­ageing serum enriched with potent antioxidants to

target fine lines and wrinkles.

Don’t forget the sunscreen! Shield your skin from harmful UV rays to prevent premature ageing and sun damage. Finally, embrace the

power of a nourishing night cream to support skin repair while you sleep. With consistency and the right products, you can revel in healthy, age ­ defying skin and face the world with renewed confidence.

COOLER CLIMATE: Try new activities for exercising.

Mineral-rich clay face masks.

Property of the week Villa Madera near Zurgena

AN impressively presented, three bed, two bath Villa in the popular area of Los Llanos de Peral, Zurgena with H&C air con, 8m x 4m swimming pool on private, low maintenance / blank canvas garden of 738m2. Four minutes drive to popular restaurant / bar.

Seven minutes drive to La Alfoquia and Zurgena village. Ten minutes to Arboleas, 12 minutes drive to Huercal­Overa town. Thirty minutes drive to the coast at Mojacar, Vera and Garrucha.

Villa Madera is part of a small quiet development of well looked after properties with tarmac road access. It would make an ideal full time residence or lock up and leave holiday home as the furniture is also for sale. The gardens and pool area are private and the property is in a great location for country walks or cycling etc.

Access in to the property is via a sliding iron gate on to the driveway which is large enough for numerous cars / motor home. The gardens surrounding the villa

are gravelled for low maintenance with a small variety of Mediterranean plants. There is a also a garden shed. To the front of the villa is the 8m x 4m swimming pool with tiling around it and an area with artificial grass to add colour and comfort.

To the front of Villa Madera is a covered verandah with a Florida style meshed enclosure which then stretches the whole front of the villa. This makes a great, extra ‘Inside / Outside’ living and dining area and looks over the pool area

and side gardens.

The front door leads into the wide, welcoming hallway which gives access to all the rooms. To the right is the living room with log burning fireplace and H&C air con. There are also glazed, sliding doors leading back into the front covered porch.

Back in the hallway the next door takes you into the spacious kitchen which is large enough to have a dining table and has plenty of worktop and cupboard space. There is also a glazed, sliding doors leading out to a small terrace and

Ref. VH2208

€209,950 euros

to the side and rear gardens.

The hallway leads on to the bedrooms and bathrooms. First is the family bathroom followed by the two large double guest bedrooms and the main bedroom with ensuite shower room with walk in shower room.

Voss Homes is a British family­run business with offices in the nearby thriving, market town of Huercal ­ Overa and village of La Alfoquia. We specialise in selling properties around Huercal ­ Overa, Zurgena, La Alfoquia and Taberno.

For more information and to arrange a viewing of VH2208 or a meeting in our offices please contact Voss Homes on 0034 950 616 827 or email us on enquiries@vosshomesspain.com.

VILLA MADERA: Well presented villa, which is part of a small quiet development, with private gardens and pool area.

Things ain’t what they used to be

Linda Hall

AS La Roja battled and defeated the Lionesses in Sydney on August 20 I recalled that girls didn’t play football in Spain half a century ago.

Come to that, they didn’t in the UK, either. Or did they?

Google reveals that the Women’s FA was formed in the UK in 1969, with Southampton beating Stewarton and Thistle 4­1 in the first Women’s cup final in 1971.

In Spain, women’s teams and informal competitions became popular in the 1970s but weren’t officially recognised by Spain’s Royal Football Association until 1980.

It’s obvious that women were playing football to generalised indifference for some time in both countries, but in a non­sporting context you didn’t see little girls kicking balls around in Spanish streets when I first lived here.

According to my husband, there were games that girls just didn’t, couldn’t play when he was growing up.

Leapfrog was proscribed, as those splayed legs gave entirely the wrong idea, and fivestones were similarly barred because this involved sitting on the ground and possibly revealing what was best kept concealed.

Boys played fivestones instead, as well as knucklebones. This game, my husband assured me, was still played the same way

that the Romans played it and all I can say is that a very boring time must have been had by all two thousand years ago.

Little girls mainly appeared to play with dolls. From what I see in the small inland city where I now live, many still do. It’s common to see a young mother pushing a pram and, beside her, a mini­me version pushing a doll’s pram, in a setup unquestioned and enjoyed by both.

Back in the mid­70s my daughter, around

five at the time, acquired while out shopping a carpentry set, something she had been nagging me to buy for some time.

When we stopped at the Estanco for the cigarettes no­one was ashamed to buy or smoke half a century ago, she showed it to the man ­ a young man incidentally ­ who always served us.

“Look what I’ve got!” she boasted. “There’s a saw and a hammer and everything.”

He looked amazed and laughed: “But little girls don’t play with things like that,” he told her.

As it it happened, she never did take to carpentry. Hammering in nails and sawing pieces of wood without an end­product in sight was fun for a limited space of time and the tools were eventually put aside and forgotten.

In hindsight I can also see that today’s risk­averse mothers in Spain as well as the UK would never let a five­year­old loose with a saw, hammers and nails.

When our daughter started at a coeducational school that year, rigid gender assignation was very gradually changing, helped by the fact that girls were not segregated from boys in the classroom, at breaktime or in the dining room.

At my request, her English grandmother brought out fivestones which met the same fate as the carpentry set although she was keener on leapfrog which was no longer vetoed.

“But we didn’t play football, or want to,” she tells me now.

That’s the difference. The little girls I see here with their doll’s prams might have their future roles as wives and mothers mapped out for them, but no ­ one will stop them from becoming footballers and winning the World Cup if that’s what they want.

WHAT’S ON YOUR BUCKET LIST

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

A RECENT questionnaire asked 2,000 Brits aged 18 to 65 what things needed to be done ‘before you die’. The 50 top answers ranged from “Visit at least 25 different countries”, “Find true love”, “Have a onenight stand” (both, presumably, not at the same time!) to “Try an adrenaline ­ packed activity such as sky ­ diving”.

Another response urges us to: “Treat each day like it’s your last”. Does this mean you spend the latter part of each day lying motionless on a bed? An alternative way of treating each day like your last would be, of course, never going to work. Or undertaking any of the above recom ­

mendations. And splashing all your cash on one final shopping trip.

But what a daft, contradictory list! If you did some things (those related to reckless spending, for example), you couldn’t do others (leave bequests to your family).

Basically, all it amounts to is a recipe for selfish, antisocial, hedonistic/ narcissistic/ Me! Me! Me! behaviour.

Well, if you’ve counted them all up and there’s nothing left to do on your own bucket list, you must have been having a whale of a time! So what now? Easy! Start another one

…

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

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

NORA’S LATEST THRILLER.

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

CHAMPIONS: Queen Letizia holds the newly-won World Cup accompanied by her daughter, the Infanta Sofia and the Women’s football team.

THERE is still a great deal of bitterness amongst UK pensioners now resident in Spain about the lack of support from the British government over the escalating cost of living.

Whilst it has recently been announced that those aged between 66 and 79 who live in the UK are likely to receive a £500 winter fuel supplement, pensioners of similar age who will have made contributions to National Insurance during their working lives are barred from receiving anything except for the £10 Christmas bonus.

I do feel that it is very unfair that those of us living in Spain don’t receive a penny towards the cost of heating. What the government conveniently overlooks is that Spanish properties are generally single glazed, have marble floors, have no insulation and are heated by electric or wood fires.

It can get very cold at night and unless you can afford solar panels, electricity is very expensive, so in some cases we have to decide if we can afford to be cold and eat or be warm and hungry.

Patrick in Ronda

When you live in the Spanish countryside, especially if you are well above sea level, the temperature is much lower than in other parts of Southern Europe, yet I receive no financial assistance from the British government, even though I worked and paid income tax and national insurance in the UK for some 45 years.

Emily in Valencia

Web comments

Disgraceful that Brits in Spain get nothing. Air conditioning is essential in many places and this is using electricity the same as heating. I am 89 years of age and expected to live on €400 , my total English pension.

James

Italy is still considered a cold country but Spain and France were said to be warm because Ian Duncan Smith used their overseas territories temperatures added to the mainland temperatures to increase their average temperatures. Italy doesn’t have any overseas territories, so he couldn’t do that for there.

John

Fighting depopulation

The lack of goverment grants is a big factor in detering population of declining village numbers, IVA attached to basic repairs like roofs and water supplies are putting people off. I have witnessed people turning up to view properties and walking away when the basic repairs + IVA attached is offputting. Italy came up with a scheme to prevent small villages from being ghost towns and if the Spanish government wish to avoid the same, then a radical rethink is long overdue.

Mark

Electric charging

It may help if grants were made available to install home, hotel, office, and public solar chargers. In the UK some highway charging stations have been equipped with solar-powered charging. With its solar profile applying this solution would certainly benefit the Spanish Electric car market.

Edward Wilsom

Welsh speed limit

That is the problem with politics lately, they grab power tempting voters with promises, then once in power for five years all this garbage is pushed through, ULEZ for example etc. There should be a clause placed on all political parties that if the political class fail to achieve a certain level of service to the people who they purportedly represent, then there should be a mechanism to oust them and force a new election. This would focus the system in honestly ruling in the people’s name. Food for thought?

Mark GB

NEATER HEATER WANT ‘SQUIRRELS’ AS CUSTOMERS

RICHARD and Tony from NEATER HEATER are urging all our readers to start preparing for next winter now. “We really want peo ple to imitate SQUIRRELS” said Tony “As we know; all the other woodland crea tures just laze about in the summer, relaxing. So when the winter comes they have to furiously compete with each other for the scraps left over or hide ­ away and hiber nate, waiting for next summer. But not the squirrels! Squirrels plan for the winter by hoard ing nuts, berries and seeds in the summer, so when winter comes they are well prepared for it, and are able to enjoy themselves on

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

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

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

NEATER HEATER DISTRIBUTORS: ALMERIA ANTAS: Lifestyle Enclosures. Tel. 950 459 060 Heaters also available for purchase at our online shop with free home delivery WWW.NEATERHEATER.ES or Tel. 634 312 171 (WhatsApp available)

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

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

SO here’s a little tip for all the moronic idiotic companies that ask me to take a survey after I’ve been hanging on to speak to a person for 45 minutes, then got cut off mid chat and had to call back on your premium number. DON’T! OK, just DON’T unless you want big fat zeros on every question asked! I can’t even do that sometimes because they don’t allow a zero mark which is ludicrous!

It’s not a good idea to ask me if my query was sorted the first time if it’s the fifth time I’ve called! You don’t have to ask for my feedback on everything I do. Every time I stay in a hotel, hire a car or phone a helpline I get asked for my feedback. If I phone Vodafone within five minutes I’ve got a call or a text asking my opinion on how my call was handled.

I contacted Microsoft live chat because my keyboard and cable needs renewing and was told my £900 Surface Pro 2, which is only two and a half years old and works fine, was now defunct and Microsoft no longer stock any replacement parts but I might find

them on eBay or Amazon. Now this winds me up big time on its own because nothing these companies do is backward compatible. Why do they have to change the charger cable for every model? Then at the end of the chat the technician says, “Is there anything else I can help you with today?” and I say, “Well actually what have you helped me with today? Absolutely nothing! All you have done is, in fact, told me you can’t help me with anything so what else would you like to have a go at? My tax return? The Times crossword? The meaning of life?

They have now gone and five minutes later I get an email asking me to rate my experience!! Are you sure? I mark everything the lowest I can and write my reasons in the boxes provided. It won’t achieve anything but hey ho.

What about apps for phones? I use a few of the messaging ones and free call ones. Every time they update they ask me do I want to fill out my profile so I can connect with other people. No I don’t. If I did I would have done it the first time you asked. No I don’t want to add a photo or my location or my date of birth or hook up with people nearby. All I want to do is send my mates or family a message now and again and even call them OK? Leave me alone! You and yer bloody algorithms can get lost.

Views

PETS

The best live in dog-sitters

RIO loves having live in dog­sitters

Rio and Blanca are happy to stay at home while their owners travel. They especially love it when new dog sitters from HouseSitMatch live in and make a fuss over them. It’s great entertainment.

It’s a fair exchange

All our sitters offer a fair exchange ­ free accommodation for free pet care and an online review. It’s a win win!

If you’re planning a trip for the holidays, don’t delay. Register today as a member of our network to find affordable home and pet care.

Plan ahead to secure great sitters

However long your trip, pets need someone with them at home. Young and senior pets in particular benefit from routines undisturbed. Plan ahead of time to find house and pet­sitters who will come to you for free!

Next steps to join

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

3D printing for pet prosthetics

IN recent years, technological advancements have dramatically changed the way we approach healthcare, and this revolution hasn’t stopped at human medicine.

customised for the comfort of the animal.

Rio loves his live in dog sitter from HousesitMatch

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

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

How does it work?

HouseSitMatch helps you find sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert with trip dates. House­sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter you want.

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

READER OFFER Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com

House-sitting is a win-win for both parties, free house and petsitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation! Register as either housesitter or homeowner with a 20% discount code 20EWN.

Dog collars banned

THE new Animal Welfare Law which comes into force in Spain on September 29, brings with it a host of changes for pet owners.

One such item is the punishment collar. Despite not being recommended, and with these collars already prohibited in other countries such as Holland, they can still be purchased in some stores in Spain.

The various types available on the market include choke, spiked or electric shock collars, but from September 29, they will be outlawed in Spain.

This regulation aims to extend the prohibition that some communities have already implemented at the regional lev­

el (such as Madrid, Catalonia and Valencia), but which did not yet apply to the rest of the Spanish territory.

With the implementation of this law, Spain joins the growing European trend of abandoning the use of this type of collar. They are known to be annoying for dogs and can often affect their behaviour, not in the way expected, but with many negative connotations say the experts.

It should be noted the new law will not apply to working or hunting dogs, such as those used by the police, or hunters.

After September 29, owners could face fines of between €10,000 and €50,000.

One of the most intriguing developments is the use of 3D printing in the cre ation of prosthetics for pets. Traditional meth ods of crafting prosthetics can be time­consuming and expensive, often re quiring multiple fittings and adjustments.

This can be both dis tressing and impractical for animals in need of urgent care. Enter 3D printing: a game­changing technology that allows for quick, cus tomised, and cost­effective solutions. With 3D printing, veterinarians can now scan the area where the prosthetic will be fitted, creating a precise digital model. The model is then printed into a tangible, biocompatible material that can be further

This not only speeds up the process but also makes it far more accurate, ensuring a better fit and quicker adaptation for the pet. These innovations are particularly important for animals that have been in accidents or have congenital issues requiring prosthet­

ics. The use of 3D printing also makes these medical aids more accessible to pet owners who may have previously been unable to afford them. The benefits of 3D printing in pet prosthetics are manifold: greater accessibility, improved comfort, and quicker production times. This technological leap promises a brighter, more mobile future for pets in need, revolutionising the way we think about animal healthcare.

PET PROSTHETICS: Makes aids more accessible to pet owners.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

POLICE/FIRE/AMBULANCE:

24 HOUR PHARMACY

112

FERNANDEZ ORTEGA ANGELES - MOJACAR 950 469 082

24 HOUR VETS

CLINICAL VETERINARIA - MOJACAR 950 472 252

BUILDERS

ALMERIA BUILDERS : Fully Legal, Fully Insured, All Work Guaranteed. 659 685 133 www.almeriabuilders.com (253556)

BUY

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

MOBILE homes & static caravans bought, sold and transported. +34 630 055 418 or elsyd7@hotmail.com (302142)

details, can be found at www.almeria-anglican.com

Here you can also find information about funerals, baptisms and wedding blessings. We are an inclusive church.

TURRE EVANGELICAL CHURCH

We meet every Sunday at 10.30. For worship. We believe you’ll find us ‘relaxed’, welcoming’ and ‘informal’. Find us on Turre’s main street, towards the motorway at the far end on the left. To know more contact 617 914 156 (10021)

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION -

Why not make this year the year you volunteer? Call and see how you can help either as a caseworker (with full training) or as a Telephone Buddy. We also visit beneficiaries who are housebound or in hospital. If you feel you could support us here in Spain, and you have a Spanish phone number then why not email us for more info tbuddyhhvisits@gmail.com. If you or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us using the details on the card, we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control. It can be a personal need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly, just call and have a chat with Pam who will try to guide you to where you need to be. If you would like to go to a branch meeting then find your nearest one at, www.britishle gion.org.uk/counties/spain

-north ZURGENA Branch meeting on the first Thursday, Coffee Morning on the third Thursday and Buffet & Quiz Night on the last Tuesday of the month all at La Parrilla Hotel Albox, for further details please email zurgenarblchair man@gmail.com - (253989)

MISCELLANEOUS

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

FOR SALE

ABBOTT ELECTRICS. From a Light Fitting to a Full Rewire. Tel: 950 137 208 / 638 010 691

VOSS HOMES are a professional, British family-run Estate Agents with an office in Huercal-Overa town. They specialise in selling and renting properties in the HuercalOvera, La Alfoquia, Zurgena & Taberno area. Andy, Anna, Jess, Adele, Hannah, Amy & Karen look forward to helping you buy, sell or rent your ideal property. Please call 678 002 006 for more information

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ORA Funky CAT First Edition - engaging and stylish

ROAD TEST

by Mark Slack

AS a motoring writer I’m lucky to receive invitations to drive new cars on their launch, and later to have such cars for extended periods. Driving a car for a few hours on a launch, and then sampling it for a week, can confirm your initial thoughts, or

Facts at a Glance

sometimes highlight issues over the time of longer loan.

When I first drove the ORA CAT last year I came away impressed, and having spent a

week and several hundred miles behind the wheel my view has remained largely unchanged. The CAT isn’t possessed of the usual aggressive looks,

lights and sharp angles. Style is always subjective but those who saw the ORA all thought it a pleasant change from the more usual brutalist styling stance of many new

charging, built­in sat nav’, high beam assist, auto lights and keyless entry and start. Heated seats would have been welcome on colder mornings, but these aren’t even available as an option.

You can specify a number of colour schemes that match exterior with interior and while maybe not for everyone’s they add a bit of life to the usually rather dull automotive palette on offer from many car makers. The build quality of the ORA appears good, although cheaper, hard plastics lurk at lower levels in the cabin. In general it’s a nice place to be and certainly doesn’t lack comfort for longer journeys.

keep kept activating and the emergency braking decided to apply itself when an oncoming car was waiting in a filter lane. The car behind me was not happy!

To be fair to the ORA there are still updates to be done so these tweaks will hopefully improve matters, and add the long overdue Apple Car Play and Android Auto. It’s an engaging car but at its price these niggles should have been dealt with long before the car came to market.

Although only minor issues, when added together they make a potentially good car rather irritating.

• Model: ORA Funky CAR First Edition

• Engine: 48 kwh battery – 171 PS

• Gears: Automatic

• Price: €36,807/£31,995

• Performance: 0-100 kph (62 mph) 8.3 seconds/Maximum Speed 160 kph (99 mph).

• Range: 310 km/193 miles on single charge

• Charging: 100kw DC charger from 15% to 80% = 42 minutes/11kw AC charger from 15 to 80% = 3 hrs/6.6kw AC home charger from 15% to 80% = 5.5 hours

• Emissions: 0 g/km

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

entry ­ level model, but it comes as standard with smart cruise, auto dimming rear view mirror, electric front seats, wireless phone

Unfortunately, it does lack the range of some competitors, the 193 miles official figure would in reality be more like 160 miles in my view. The main issues though are the ridiculously over sensitive safety features, such lane keep and autonomous emergency braking.

No matter the road lane

some tweaks.

1/2 an ounce of fuel only is needed to start a car.

The fuel war hots up

REPSOL recently announced it was launching an offer which lowered the price of fuel for its customers. On September 15, it was the turn of competitor Galp to tempt motorists with succulent discounts.

Since the government scrapped the 20 cents per litre fuel discount at the start of 2023, the oil companies have all been battling to attract new customers with a variety of special offers.

With fuel prices increasing for the 10th consecutive week, motorists cannot be blamed for being tempted by good offers.

As a result of this announcement, the Portuguese multinational Galp will be offering direct discounts to individuals, including a discount of 10 cents per litre on all regular fuels, as long as they are a user of the Mundo Galp loyalty programme.

GALP: Offering tempting discounts.

In addition, a 15­cent discount per litre will be added if premium­Evologic fuels are chosen.

However, the most interesting discount comes from the Mundo Galp application itself. The first refuelling as a loyalty member will generate a direct discount of up to 15 cents per litre on all petrol and diesel fuels.

Meanwhile, with the premium ­ Evologic fuels, the savings will be up to 20 cents.

To access these discounts, in addition to being registered in the application, motorists will have to enter the code MUEVETUCOCHE.

As a result, by following the Repsol initiative, if you also contract solar energy services with Galp, you obtain a discount of up to 35 cents per litre on regular fuels and 40 cents per litre on Premium ­ Evologic fuels. This scheme has a maximum refuelling limit of 2,000 litres per year.

Historic point for Portugal

THE Portuguese rugby team achieved its first­ever point in a Rugby World Cup when it drew 18­18 with Georgia on Saturday, September 23.

A thrilling 18­18 result in the Toulouse Stadium, in France, left Portugal bottom of Group C. In the last minute of the game, Nuno Sousa Guedes had the opportunity to give Portugal a first victory but the full­back was unable to convert the penalty.

It took Akaki Tabutsadze, Georgia’s record try­scorer only 75 seconds to charge across the Portuguese line to bag his 30th try in 33 international matches.

Tedo Abzhandadze then added a conversion and two penalties to give Georgia a 13­0 lead.

Raffaele Storti then looked like he would become a national hero after the Portugal winger scored two superb solo

tries to put his side in front in the dying stages. Their elation was short­lived however when the TV match official awarded Georgia a try in the 79th minute.

Speaking after the match, Augusto Santos Silva, the President of the National Assembly, highlighted the good performance of the Portuguese team.

“It’s another milestone on the path we are taking, which now places us as the 26th team in the world,” it was reported. He believed that Portugal produced a “lesson in playing well,” especially in the second half.

Portugal qualified for the 2023 rugby finals in France for only the second time in history. They were drawn into a group that included some real heavyweights from the sport, going up against the likes of Australia, Wales and Fiji.

The Portuguese team debuted in the competition a week ago, with a 28­8 defeat against Wales. Previously, the nation had only participated in one World Cup, back in 2007. This year’s tournament in France

THE Solheim Cup remains in the hands of Europe’s female golfers after a thrilling battle on Sunday, September 24.

For the first time in the history of the biennial competition, it ended in a draw, specifically, 14­14. The competition featured the 12 best US players from the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour and the 12 best European players from the Ladies European Tour (LET).

This time around, the world’s leading match­play competition for female professional golfers was staged in Andalucia, on the Costa del Sol, at Finca Cortesin.

Europe entered the day’s proceedings trailing 4­0 from the foursomes. However, Suzann Pettersen saw her players stage an almighty comeback with the final accolades falling fittingly to Spanish star Carlota Ciganda as the Spaniard completed her fourth win in four matches.

Due to the status of the remaining matches, the United States had a brief window of opportunity to claim an outright win on the 15th hole after Nelly Korda pulled the match with Ciganda back to all­square.

Refusing to accept the possibility of defeat, a stunning approach shot to the 16th left Ciganda with a birdie putt. A similar feat on the 17th ­

Europe retains Solheim Cup

It had not looked so promising for Europe earlier in the day after Georgia Hall halved her match with Andrea Lee. Madelene Sagstrom subsequently went down 4&3 to Lilia Vu, the World number two. The US seemed certain favourites when Celine Boutier was then beaten 2&1 by Angel Yin.

Scottish rookie Gemma Dryburgh managed to halve her match with Cheyenne Knight. The American newcomer fought back from two down with four to play.

However, following four birdies in five holes, followed by a conceded eagle at the last hole in her match with Ally Ewing, the European veteran Caroline Hedwall clawed her way back to win by two after being three down after 12 holes.

The final result was in the balance after the European women found themselves ahead in two of the last three matches. Lexi Thompson was in a comfortable position against Emily Pedersen which left everything in the hands of Maja Stark and Ciganda.

where she placed her shot just two feet away from the pin at the 145yard hole ­ meant that Europe would retain the iconic trophy if Korda failed to sink her ball.

If the two golfers could win these two remaining matches then the competition would end 14­14 and Europe, as the holders, would retain the trophy, which they did.

Credit: Twitter@TheSolheimCup

European team retained the Solheim Cup 2023.