Costa de Almeria 12 – 18 October 2023 Issue 1997

WALT DISNEY

LOCAL legend has it that Walt Disney was actually born in Mojacar, the illegitimate son of a doctor and a local woman nicknamed La Bicha.

This has never been proven although it is known that once he gained fame with the Disney studio, Walt sent two of his people to the town in the 1940’s to try to find José Guirao Zamora’s (his birth name) birth certificate but they were unsuccessful. This has not daunted the claims of successive Mojacar Councils and there is a thriving local group, the Walt Was Here Association.

Having painted one mural depicting Walt Disney on the side of a school, the Mojacar Council along with the Association have sanctioned a second mural to celebrate the centenary of Mickey Mouse’s first appearance on cinema screens which takes place on Monday October 16.

Street artist Nauní, has once again been involved and this time a huge image of the famous cartoon rodent appears on the façade of the municipal library and on the centenary date, children from the local school will be invited to the library to enjoy a story of one of Mickey’s adventures.

The new Mickey Mouse mural.

Credit: Mojacar Council

Mojacar gymnasts

THERE is a definite trend with young girls to take up dancing or gymnastics and the Mojacar rhythmic gymnastics school had two open days to allow new members to apply to take part.

More than 60 gymnasts of different ages are now training as part of the EDM Costarítmica Mojacar team and they and their coaches are looking to beat their previous season’s record of six trophies and no less than 24 medals.

Although girls are more prominent, boys are beginning to take an interest and the season starts with an additional coach as the sport is so popular, especially with the youngest members being just three years old, they do need as much

ALTHOUGH really aimed at the younger members of the family, a number of adults were happy to attend a contest organised by PIECES in VERA over the weekend of October 7 and 8 where the best LEGO constructions won prizes.

It was held at the Convent of Victoria with prizes handed out by Councillor Carolina Pérez Gallardo, but to ensure that there was less disappointment, those who didn’t win a prize could en­

sets.

training and support as possible. Rhythmic gymnastics combines elements of ballet, gymnastics and dance.

LEGO fun

PIECES in VERA is an event carried out by LEGO fans and is organised by members of the PIEZAS Association With free admission, visitors of all ages had the opportunity to be impressed by the great amount of detail in each of the scenes, participate in contests, play in the free construction zone and generally have fun.

ter a raffle for five LEGO

Just half of those training in Mojacar.

Credit: Mojacar Council

Presentation to the winners.

Credit: Vera Council

NIBS EXTRA

Special mass

THE Ecuadorian community in Vera came together to celebrate once more the pilgrimage of the Virgin of the Swan on Sunday October 8. After the mass, the statue of the Virgin was moved to the hermitage, where there was music, food and games.

Proud award

THE Almeria Provincial Council vice president, Ángel Escobar was delighted to accept an award from the Historic District Neighbourhood Association on October 7 for its great work and commitment to heritage with the rehabilitation of the Santa Maria Magdelena Provincial Hospital which was constructed in the 16th century.

Cemetery clean

PART of the Llano del Espino cemetery wall in Albox literally collapsed some time ago, but now the council is taking action to completely restore the damaged area and a number of the areas within the cemetery will be painted, whilst the other parts will be cleaned and vegetation removed.

New coach

LANGUISHING near the bottom of the La Liga top flight, UD Almeria have appointed 48­year­old Basque Gaizka Garitano as their new coach. He is a former professional footballer who made the transition to become a coach in 2010.

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Our Patron Saint

MOJACAR once again celebrated its patron saint Our Lady of the Rosary on Saturday October 7 at the Santa María Parish Church at 12 noon.

Following the Mass, there was a solemn procession as the statue of Our Lady of the Rosary was paraded through the streets of Mojacar old town, accompanied by members of the council, residents and the Municipal Music Band.

At 2pm the traditional pensioners lunch took place at the Puntazo restaurant, located on the beach road as

YOUR EWN HAS

a tribute from the municipality to its elderly and those attending received tickets for a raffle and enjoyed music and dance.

On Sunday the ribbon race brought the celebrations to an end as participants, dressed in traditional costume met at the Mojacar Fountain at 5pm.

Then at 5.30pm, the young men of the municipality, now mounted on their horses took part in an exciting competition to see who could get the most ribbons and claim a kiss from one of the owners.

Easier access Child friendly

THERE are many difficulties faced by people who are blind or have failing eyesight but the Almeria College of Pharmacists is trying to help in one particular area.

On October 6, it unveiled a special coloured QR code outside of the Zapata Romacho pharmacy, situated on Called Lopán in the Los Angeles area of Almeria City which is linked to the Navilens APP. Access to

Art exhibition

FROM now until October 29, the Temporary Exhibition Hall of the Infanta Doña Elena Auditorium hosts the Águilas Autumn Salon, which this year celebrates its 16th edition and in which 20 artists from Aguilas and the surrounds are exhibiting their works.

Tasty event

SOME 40 elderly residents of Mojacar were pleased to attend the annual Red Cross cooking competition where they were able to enjoy a taste of no less than 15 different dishes.

98 STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Bad accident

a similar APP is now available at various bus stops which makes it much easier for the 1,000 ONCE members in the province to travel and now discover which pharmacies are open and where they are located. Almeria is the third province in Andalucia to introduce this technology, following Cordoba and Huelva as part of its commitment to make day to day living easier.

ON Saturday September 30 representatives of Vera Council which boasts that it is a Child Friendly Municipality attended the third Meeting of Local Councils for Childhood and Adolescence that was being held in HuercalOvera.

There was quite a large Vera delegation as the councillor for Education, Irene Vázquez and the councillor for Youth and Childhood, Antonio Soler accompanied by the deputy of Equality and Family, Ana Lourdes Ramirez,

It’s electrifying

A NUMBER of ‘mature’ ladies who are residents of Cuevas del Almanzora attended a get together with different Centres of Active Participation in Almeria Province on Sunday October 8.

They were accompanied by Councillors Melchi Caparro s Garci a and Isabel Avila who were impressed by the costumes worn by the ladies as they performed a selection of dances connected

with the much loved musical Grease in front of a large audience. Councillor Caparrós commented that it was a pleasure to see how the elderly were still able to enjoy an active life whilst having fun and sharing their leisure and free time with friends.

All of those present also enjoyed a meal as well as a glass or two of wine before heading back home.

arrived together with a group of young people from the town.

This was a two day event which went on until Sunday, with the intention of not only allowing an exchange of professional views, but helping those young people aged between eight and 17 who were there to mix and have fun.

With an eye to combine education with enjoyment, all delegates expect to be able to implement much of what they encountered at the meeting.

A WORKER was seriously injured on the morning of October 6 after an iron bar fell on him and he became trapped in Pulpi, according to Emergencies 112 Andalucia. The accident occurred as he was involved in working on the railway in the district of La Fuente and his predicament was spotted by a colleague who contacted 112. Members of the Levante Fire Department, the Guardia Civil, the Local Police and the 061 Health Emergency Centre arrived at the scene and he was quickly freed and then transferred to the HuercalOvera hospital.

1859 the year Big Ben was installed.

STREET PARADE: Procession of the statue.

Credit: Turismo Mojacar Credit:

Gastronomic debut

FOOD and drink are an important ambassador for any area that is looking to attract culinary tourists and for the first time Sabores Almeria was represented at Gastromnomika held in San Sebastian from October 9 to 11.

This was the 25th anniversary of the International gourmet fair which was held at the spectacular Kursaal Conference Centre in San Sebastian which itself is a byword for gourmet eating. With some of the best chefs, restaurants and distributors of food in the world attending, Almeria took a 24 square metre stand with special tastings of dishes made by participating Almeria chefs, from the Almeria Gastronomic Association. Although there will have been many influential visitors to the exhibition, the Provincial Council Delegates had an appointment to meet world renowned British wine journalist and critic Jancis Robinson.

The stand also received visits from prestigious guests such as Michelin Star chef, himself from Almeria, Cristóbla Muñoz; the sommelier José Antonio Moreno; and the mixologist Eneko Ramos who mixed drinks with liquors from Sabores Almeria.

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

THE weekend of October 6 to 8 saw Mojacar host its first ever Oktoberfest as the first of a number of autumn activities planned for the town.

Organised by The Tap Room brewery and Mojacar Playa traders, together with the local council it was held on the Playa de Lance Nuevo beach and in the Plaza de la Mojaquera located on the Paseo Marítimo beach road.

Oktoberfest Mojacar

restaurants in the plaza, and there were also stands offering traditional sausages, hamburgers and pretzels.

Servers dressed in typical beer hall costumes, there was music from 5pm each day as well as dancing and games.

Open from 11am to 11pm entrance was free and those visiting could enjoy a selection of 25 different beers from local artisan breweries as well as six others from the Costa del Levante with no less than 90 per cent of the beer being Spanish. Although beer took centre

Meaning don’t wait to do something, do it now. The phrase originated in ancient English as advice to make the most of the present day and has been a popular phrase used all over the world ever since.

ON Saturday October 7 a multitude of people of different nationalities gathered at the El Palmeral venue in Vera.

It was part of the Vera Ibero ­ American Artistic

stage, guests had a choice of good food in the three

The organisers detected a great deal of interest not just from German residents but also from both British and Scandinavian contingents as well as a number of Spaniards who were happy to test the range of Spanish beers.

Diverse appeal

Festival held every two years and is intended to be a multi ­ cultural event

which looks to build a more inclusive and tolerant society, where cultural differences are valued and celebrated.

Throughout the afternoon, a wide variety of activities were carried out with magic performances, dance workshops, painting and various typical dances from Peru and Bolivia as well as a special performance by the Los Iberoamericanos orchestra.

An essential part of this festival was the tasting of typical dishes from Bolivia, Peru and Colombia, as well as spotlighting the arts and crafts from the countries.

No Latin American event can however proceed without the element of dance and those taking part certainly did so with skill and enthusiasm.

20th century produced great artists, Picasso and Dali.

FIRST EVER: An exuberant welcome to Oktoberfest.

Credit: The Tap Room

“There is no time like the present.”

Almeria Hog Rally

SOME 140 ‘petrol heads’ are due to take part in what has been titled the 12+1 Almeria Hog Rally which will take place on October 13 to 15.

Around 80 owners of Harley ­ Davidson bikes will be part of the event which has attracted entries from nine different Autonomous Communities as well as others from Belgium and Portugal.

There is a lot going on and highlight will be the Saturday morning ride from Almeria to Adra although there will be plenty to occupy those taking part each day of the rally.

All of this was confirmed by Sports Deputy, José Antonio García who was accompanied by Almeria councillor Joaquín Pérez de la Blanca as well as two representatives of HarleyDavidson.

The Sports Deputy said “It is one of the three oldest events on the national

scene and the 140 participants coming from all over Spain will be able to enjoy the benefits of Costa de Almeria.”

Those living in the city and along the route to Adra will be able to enjoy the sight and sound of so many top of the range motor bikes travelling in convoy during the weekend, whilst the riders will be able to chat with fellow bikers, compare notes and inspect each other’s bikes.

John Lennon

THERE is a very direct link between John Lennon and Almeria City as it was here, during the late summer of 1966, that he started to write one of his most iconic songs, ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’.

He had come to this remote region to film scenes for the movie ‘How I Won the War’ and beneath the scorching sun, Lennon’s thoughts

NOT every council can afford or indeed has the need for its own fire brigade, but the problem of fighting fires can be resolved if local councils work together.

Mojacar mayor Rosa María Cano Montoya has been unanimously re­elected as President of the Levante Almeria Firefighters Consortium whilst the Vice­Presidency went to Ángel Collado Fernández, the Bedar Council representative.

Accepting this honour, the mayor reviewed the eight years since she first took office and when she was first appointed, she recalled that there was just a single fire station based in Turre with 16 firefighters.

Since that time, additional stations have been opened in Huercal­Overa and Albox and between them will shortly boast a total of 68 officers.

wandered, and he began crafting the lyrics that would become a timeless masterpiece.

It is said that the phrase Strawberry Fields conjured memories of a Liverpool children’s home near his childhood home ­ a place he often escaped to in his imagination.

So enamoured is Almeria with Lennon that there is a statue of

him sitting on a bench playing his guitar and many a tourist or fan has taken the opportunity to be photographed alongside the much missed Beatle.

In addition, the Lennon Almeria Association teams up annually with the Almeria City Council to host the Almeria Beatles Weekend which is due to be held in December this year.

Fire control

Her target is for them to respond to any blaze within 20 minutes of receiving the alert and this vision will hopefully be realised shortly with the opening of a fourth station in Nijar.

The Consortium consists of the municipalities of Antas, Bedar, Carboneras, Cuevas del Almanzora, Los Gallardos, Garrucha, Huercal­Overa, Mojacar, Pulpi, Sorbas, Taberno, Turre, Vera and the Almeria Provincial Council, although officers will respond to calls from some 48 towns with a combined population of 200,000.

Hog Rally 2023 travels from Almeria City to Adra.

Credit: Almeria Provincial Council

Autumn injections

ON Monday, October 9, the 2023/2024 vaccination campaign against flu and Covid began in Andalucia for people in residential centres for the elderly and disability centres, the general population aged 85 or over and associated health staff.

The Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs of the Junta de Andalucia recommends that all target groups be vaccinated against flu and Covid to prevent serious infection effectively and safely from these viruses.

For this campaign, the Andalucian Government has increased by 7.5 per cent the number of flu vaccines compared to 2022 which has now topped 2.2 million.

This increase is mainly due to the lowering of the starting age of flu vaccination in adults, who will now begin to be vaccinated systematically from

the age of 60, in line with vaccination against Covid.

Starting on October 16, people over 70 years of age, children aged six months or older and adults with risk factors, dependent people and their professional caregivers, and pregnant women will receive the flu and Covid vaccination.

The next phase will begin on October 30 when, those over 60 years of age and other professional groups, such as security forces and penitentiary

institutions, veterinarians and farm workers will receive the double vaccination.

The last phase will take place starting in December, when the double flu and Covid vaccine will be administered to those living in the home with people aged 60 or over, or people at risk.

Those in the target groups may make an appointment through the Salud Responde application, ClicSalud+, by phone or at their health centre.

VACCINATION CAMPAIGN: First injections of the autumn.

Credit: Junta de Andalucia

Police triumph

FOUR officers from the Adra Local Police force took part in the European Police and Fire Games 2023 held in Torrevieja, Alicante, where they found considerable success.

Meeting Adra mayor Manuel Cortés and several councillors and council officials on Tuesday October 10, they were able to speak about their experiences and show off their hard won medals.

One of the participants was officer María del Carmen González, who took first place in mountain biking and fourth place in the middle distance race.

Her partner, Ángel Sebastián Parrilla, won silver in paddle tennis whilst Mariano Pérez was fourth in Crossfit and Sergio Almendros came seventh in triathlon and 16th in cycling.

The mayor took the opportunity to congratu­

FOLLOWING the 2023 Municipal Elections, the town of Turre saw the PSOE gain five seats, the PP four seats and a left wing group now known as Turre para la Gente the remaining two seats.

No coalition deal was made between any party, so the PSOE formed a minority council with its leader María Isabel López taking over as mayor.

late them on their individual triumphs and thanked them for “taking Adra to the top in these awards.”

Party politics

Now it appears that the PP and the Turre para la Gente councillors have decided to work together and have called for a vote of no confidence in the mayor which is due to take

place on Tuesday October 24. Assuming there are seven votes for and five against, the PP leader and former mayor Arturo Grima is likely to regain power. As an added ‘bonus’ the two Turre para la Gente councillors have been warned by their ‘parent’ party Izquierda Unida if they vote in favour of the motion, they will be expelled from the party!

Displaying the prestigious medals.

Estate planning for UK nationals in Spain

It is important for UK nationals to review their estate planning and wills once they are living in Spain. You need to consider the impact of Spanish succession law and succession tax, as well as UK inheritance which continues to catch many British expatriates. Don’t risk leaving it too late, or your estate may not be distributed as you wished and your heirs may pay more tax than they need have.

Wills

If you live in Spain, it is advisable to make a Spanish will to deal with your Spanish assets. It is much easier, quicker and cheaper to wind up an estate using a local will, rather than one established in another country. If you still have assets in the UK, you can have a will for each country.

Spanish succession law

Spanish succession law imposes

By Jon Pemberton, Partner,

sets – you cannot leave everything to your spouse. This Spanish law will apply to foreign nationals living in Spain by default.

You can however use the European Succession Regulation, ‘Brussels IV’, to opt for the succession law of your country of nationality to apply on your death instead. You must specifically

it is not restricted to EU citizens. Brussels IV only relates to succession law. You cannot use it to opt for UK inheritance tax instead of Spanish succession tax.

Spanish inheritance tax

Spanish succession and gift tax is due if the asset being inherited or gifted is located in Spain or if the recipient is resident in Spain. The tax is paid by each recipient and tax rate varies depending on the kinship, with no blanket spouse to spouse exemption. State tax rates start at 7.65% and rise to 34%. Multipliers based on the familial relationship and beneficiary’s net worth can take tax rates much higher. There are some reductions and allowances but at state level they are low. The 95% reduction against the inherited value of the main home is limited to spouses or descendants who keep the property for 10 years and capped at

rates, allowances and reductions to make them more beneficial for residents.

Andalucía has reformed its succession tax regime in recent years, and now in most cases spouses and children do not have to pay any tax (or relatively little) on inheritances (the rules are different for gifts).

UK inheritance tax

Many British expatriates remain liable to UK inheritance tax since it is based on domicile rather than residence. Your estate could be liable to both UK and Spanish inheritance taxes, but a credit is given in Spain for the tax paid in the UK.

Depending on your circumstances and intentions, it may be possible to adopt a domicile of choice in Spain. This is a complex, specialist area.

Estate planning for UK na -

like to benefit from your estate? Do you want to control how and when they receive their inheritance? How quickly would they need the money? How can you make the inheritance process easy and cost-effective for them?

Then seek specialist cross-border estate planning advice on how you can achieve your wishes while as keeping inheritance taxes as low as possible. With careful planning, you can get peace of mind that you have the most suitable approach in place.

Tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; an individual is advised to seek personalised advice.

Keep up to date on the financial Blevins Franks news page at

Blevins Franks

Caught in Tel Aviv

WHAT should have been a pleasant holiday in Tel Aviv for a family from the Almeria town of Fines has turned into something of a nightmare due to the attacks on Israel by Hamas.

Rocio Caicedo and two additional generations of the Caicedo family arrived in Israel at the beginning of October but as the country’s second largest city is less than 70 kilometres from Gaza, Tel Aviv was an obvious target for a rocket attack.

The family want to return home, but there are a number of difficulties not the least being that commercial flights have been heavily restricted.

Rocio’s daughter, husband and children live in Switzerland and the Swiss government have arranged mercy air lifts for Swiss residents, but there is no guarantee that Rocio who still lives in Fines would be allowed on board.

In the meantime, the family have tried to contact the Spanish authorities asking for advice and assistance but have at

the time of writing been told that they need to book her on a commercial flight and currently all are full.

The Fines Council has taken to Social Media to offer its sup­

The Nutcracker

port and best wishes to Rocio, but is unable to offer more concrete assistance other than to say all residents look forward to seeing her at home soon.

Los Bandidos

IT was a busy day of racing for Los Bandidos with both the Vera Triathlon and the Carrera Popular de Antas taking place on Sunday October 8.

For this the third year of the Vera Triathlon, participants had to undertake a 750m swim (that was closer to 900m) a 20k bike course and a 5k run.

Thirteen of the Los Bandidos participated with some completing their first triathlon and the sea was pretty rough and proved challenging, especially for the first­timers.

The three­lap bike course was fairly flat and fast, with a tailwind in one direction whilst the run went along the Paseo from the Laguna to Garrucha and consisted of two laps.

The support from Los Bandidos friends and family, as well as others out on the course, was absolutely amazing and encouraged everyone to try their hardest and finish with a smile! Everyone got a medal for crossing the finish line, as well as a pre­race goody bag and post­race paella and beer.

The 15th race in the Circuito de Carreras Populares Diputación de Almeria 2023 took place in Antas where 13 Los Bandidos runners completed the one­lap, 7k race, which included a couple of tough hills and some steady downhills.

LOVERS of ballet will travel long distances to enjoy gifted professionals perform and tickets invariably sell out very quickly.

Although not taking place for nearly three months, there is no question that Christmas favourite The Nutcracker which is to be performed at the El Ejido Auditorium is going to be very popular and tickets priced at €22.88 and €25.88 are already on sale.

This performance is presented by the Internation­

al Ballet Company, an acclaimed company made up of soloists from Moldova, Ukraine and Italy among other countries which is currently on tour in Spain.

The ballet with music by Tchaikovsky is based on a short story, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King and is perhaps the best known of his ballets thanks to The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and The Waltz of the Flowers.

The story unfolds as Christmas sees a big party at Clara’s house and all the

children receive a gift and her beloved godfather gives her a beautiful Nutcracker doll so whilst the whole family sleeps, Clara and her Nutcracker Prince defeat the army of the King of the Mice.

The ballet which is performed in two 50 minute sections with a 20 minute break features soloists: Cristina Terentiev and Alexandru Balan and tickets can be obtained by visiting the Auditorium website https://culturaelejido. sacatuentrada.es/.

Dancing the dream.

Credit: International Ballet Company

THE musical Skate Hero enjoyed a one night performance at the Maestro Padilla Municipal Auditorium in Almeria City on Saturday October 7.

It tells the story of the Spanish hero Ignacio Echeverría, who was killed in the terrorist attack on London Bridge in 2017.

Remembered as ‘the skateboard hero’ he was a Spanish bank employee living in the UK and a great lover of the skateboard which he used to physically confront the terrorists.

With a strong Christian conviction, plans are being made by Catholic groups in Almeria to apply for his canonisation which under new Vatican rules might be possible due to his selfless action taken to try to save strangers who were under attack.

The musical has been adapted from the biography written by Ignacio’s father Joaquín and both of his par­

Skate Hero Bank explosion

THIEVES seem to have little difficulty in finding explosives which they then use to blow up cash machines throughout Spain.

In the early hours of last Friday, October 6, a so far unidentified group, believed to consist of three men, set off an explosion outside the Cajamar Bank situated in the Avenida del Mediterráneo in Almeria City causing considerable

ents appeared on the Auditorium stage after the show finished to great applause.

There are some 30 members of the cast and the set is back shot by two important videos, during the performance, one showing Ignacio skateboarding in London and the other dramatic news of the attack.

The musical which was written, directed and performed by an all ­ Spanish cast follows the last 24 hours of this young hero and deals with his courage and how his loss reverberated around the world.

Amongst his many posthumous honours is Britain’s highest civilian award, the George Medal and the Spanish Grand Cross of the Order of Civil Merit.

damage to the front of the bank.

They extracted the cash machine and took it away so that they could empty it in private at their leisure.

Specialists in explosives from the office of TEDAX have been brought in to analyse the cause of the explosion which may assist National and Local Police as they investigate the robbery.

STAGE MUSICAL: Scene from Skate Hero.

Credit: Turismo

Almeria

Mental Health Day

MONDAY October 9 was World Mental Health Day and this was celebrated by the Adra Council with a special table set up in Plaza Puerta del Mar where passers ­ by could find out more about the topic and also obtain a free t­ shirt.

The mayor, Manuel Cortés standing outside the town hall read a special message from the Spanish Mental Health Confederation and stressed that “Mental Health Care must have a global approach, where all people participate, or otherwise much of the invested energy will be lost.

“Everything that is done in favour of the right to Mental Health will have a real return, because a society with Mental Health is a society with wellness.”

In response, the president of the El Timón Association, Cristina González, thanked the council and all of those present for their support and understanding.

On Tuesday October 10, several landmark buildings in the town were lit with a green light to further create awareness of World Mental Health.

Good harvest

MUCH has been made of the problems that the Spanish olive oil industry is facing due to drought and a drastic reduction in production, but this seems not to be the case across Almeria.

On Monday October 9, the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food released its first esti­

mates of anticipate yield when production of oil starts towards the end of the year.

Although only estimates at this stage, it is assumed that the actual volume of oil produced will be 20 per cent up on last year, with overall production of some 13,000 tons and whilst this is not

a huge harvest when compared to other parts of Andalucia it is certainly a positive outcome. Although it doesn’t help consumers pockets, the national shortage of olive oil has seen prices shoot up which is good news for producers in Almeria who can expect to see increased profits.

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

Migrant ship impounded

ACCORDING to a news source, the Italians impounded the Spanish charity rescue ship Open Arms, for violating rules banning multiple migrant rescues at sea, the charity has said.

Open Arms has called the

impounding a ‘violation of the law of the sea’ that requires boats to rescue people in distress.

The ship was blocked from leaving the port of Carrera for 20 days and the charity was handed a fine of between

Bullfight protest

€3,000 and €10,000.

Italy took the decision after two rescues of 69 people in international waters on Saturday September 30. Open Arms said it then received news that another migrant boat was in danger and overcrowded and so it went to the rescue, with its captain questioned for six hours afterwards as the boat was impounded after arriving in Carrera.

The Italian government made no statements about the decision.

It is the second time that the Open Arms ship has been temporarily impounded. It and two other charity rescue boats were impounded over three days in August.

Italian Prime Giorgia Meloni has previously said she and her government would take “extraordinary measures” to deal with migrants arriving in Italy.

As per Interior Ministry statistics as of mid­September, close to 126,000 people had arrived in Italy by boat this year, compared to 66,000 in the same period of 2022.

THE animal defence organisations AnimaNaturalis and CAS International staged a unique protest against bullfighting on Sunday, October 8 at the Plaza de la Seo, Zaragoza.

The action consisted of a group of half­naked activists putting themselves in the shoes of the bulls that die in the bullrings every year.

Cristina Ibañez, coordinator for AnimaNaturalis said “With a tell­tale haste, the new conservative government of the Popular Party and VOX is promoting bullfights without listening to ethical reasons or looking at the statistics of low interest in this type of shows.” She then added “Traditions are a way of expressing where we come from and who we are… and Aragonese society is far from identifying with spilled blood and the last breath of a tortured animal.”

The Bullfighting Regulations in Aragon have recently been modified, which increases the support and promotion of popular celebrations and bullfighting shows and now rules concerning the banning of young people have been removed which according to the campaigners conflicts with United Nations recommendations. There is even a proposal that apprentices learning the ‘art’ of bullfighting should be classified as elite athletes according to AnimaNaturalis.

According to official data from the Ministry of Culture, used as evidence against the expansion of bullfights, the number of bullfights has seen a sustained decline from 2015 onwards, although the figures are naturally skewed because of the pandemic.

UNIQUE ACTION: The protest in Zaragoza.

Credit: AnimaNaturalis X

Animal crime crackdown

John Ensor

FROM exotic birds to big cats, so far this year, authorities have initiated 919 criminal cases related to animal cruelty, leading to the arrest or investigation of 508 individuals.

With a resolution rate exceeding 70 per cent, the Guardia Civil also identified 9,941 breaches of pet and dangerous animal regulations. Additionally, 119 infringements concerning the import, export, and trade of protected wildlife under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) have been recorded.

Thirty­four cases have been linked to the illicit trade of protected or endangered animals, involving 49 individuals. The success rate in solving these cases is an impressive 90 per cent.

In the areas of hunting and fishing, 8,439 administrative and 174 criminal actions have been taken. The number of individuals who have been detained or investigated amounted to 169, boasting a 75 per cent clearance rate.

Moreover, 14 instances of unlawful shellfish harvesting have been identified, resulting in 31 arrests or investigations.

‘Operation BUCEFALO II’ in Murcia saw the investigation of a farm owner after the dis­

covery of 31 dead horses. Alongside these horses, approximately 20 goats were found, posing a significant health risk to both animals and humans.

In a joint operation with France’s OCLAESP, ‘Operation Reina 33’ led to the arrest of six individuals for the illegal trade of large cats between Spain and France. Among the confiscated animals were six servals, two caracals, two marmosets, and three macaws, all protected species.

In Calanda, Teruel, a shocking discovery of around 120 dogs was made on a rabbit farm. These dogs were kept in deplorable conditions, reminiscent of a previous case where the owner had been convicted for cramming 544 dogs into rabbit cages.

Europe’s bold leap

ON Thursday, October 5 and Friday, October 6, Granada, renowned for the Alhambra, became the focal point for Europe’s future direction in an increasingly intricate and challenging global landscape.

Last week, the European Political Community and the European Council met in Granada’s Nasrid heart to chart the course for Europe’s future. This isn’t just about the EU, but the broader European context.

The Spanish presidency of the Council, which sponsored the event, viewed it as a foundational moment. Granada’s rich tapestry of history, culture, literature, and art provided a unique backdrop for these discussions.

The meeting focused on a Europe in the process of reinvention, with leaders given two days to outline the trajectory they envisage for the upcoming decades.

There were two sum ­

mits, held back ­ to ­ back.

The first, on Thursday, encompassed 47 European states, all except Russia and Belarus.

They gathered as the European Political Community (EPC), a forum inaugurated last year in Prague as an alliance against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The gathering included EU member states, potential EU candidates and other European countries such as the UK.

And, while no major decisions were anticipated from these informal summits, their importance lies

in their affirming display of solidarity.

Then, on Friday, was an informal meeting of the 27 EU member states, themselves confronted with a mountain of problems, first and foremost on the agenda is migration management.

The three key areas of the discussions focused on: digitalisation, energy and the environment, and finally multilateralism and geostrategy.

The day concluded with a gala dinner and a tour of the Alhambra, in the presence of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia.

Guardia Civil spearhead fight against animal crime.

Credit: Guardiacivil.es

FOCAL POINT: The Alhambra, Granada.

Credit: Botond Horvath/Shutterstock.com

Soldier princess in the spotlight

Linda Hall

OCTOBER is a busy month for Princess Leonor, who will be 18 on October 31.

Now at the General Military Academy in Zaragoza, she and her fellow cadets took part in a military occasion on Octo­

ber 6 for the first time since they began training in August.

The Princess of Asturias and other members of Eleven Company paid homage and requested the protection of the Virgen del Pilar, said to have

appeared there in 40AD.

This Ofrenda is traditionally held on the eve of the Jura de Bandera when the future army officers swear their loyalty and pledge to defend Spain.

Next day, October 7, saw 410 cadets take part in the ceremony held in the Academy’s parade ground, with Princess Leonor in the front row of the body of young soldiers in dress uniforms.

The princess’s name was called and she marched alone to the flag, which she kissed, after removing her red ­ plumed kepi, watched by her parents King Felipe and Queen Letizia who were accompanied by the military authorities and Defence minister Margarita Robles.

The princess next appears on a formal occasion in Madrid on Spain’s National Day today, October 12. She will watch the marchpast with her parents .

Spain assists Ukraine

ACCORDING to a news source, the Spanish and Ukrainian leaders have reached an agreement over a fresh batch of military support, as Ukraine looks to continue to defend itself from Russia, who invaded their eastern European neighbours back towards the start of 2022.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy was in Spain last week for the latest summit of the European Political Community, and the crisis in Ukraine continues to dominate the agenda.

During the summit, the Ukrainian leader sought to source fresh military aid for his country, with some European nations seemingly starting to waver in terms of their commitment.

Countries like the UK, France, and Germany are all reaffirming their support,

however, and Spain is doing the same with defence systems set to be sent to eastern Europe.

Indeed, Spain will provide Ukraine with six Hawk anti­aircraft missile launchers following talks between Spanish President Pedro Sánchez and Zelenskyy at the summit in Granada on Thursday October 5.

The launchers will help Ukraine ‘fight off possible Russian bombardments against civilian targets and critical infrastructure’.

Sánchez also pledged corresponding training for Ukrainian soldiers and de­mining equipment.

The Hawk SAM system is a semi­stationary medium­range anti­aircraft missile system which is being serviced in about 20 countries.

First rocket launch

SPAIN is now truly part of the Space Race as in the early morning of Saturday October 7, PLD Space made history by launching the first private European rocket, MIURA 1.

The launch took place from the facilities of the El Arenosillo Experimentation Centre (CEDEA), belonging to the National Institute of Aerospace Technology. (INTA) in Mazagon, Huelva.

The flight lasted 306 seconds and MIURA 1 reached a height of 46 kilometres, which according to some external commentators was less than hoped for.

The splashdown was in the Atlantic Ocean and the rocket was recovered within four hours of the take off, which proved that firstly the technology worked and secondly that the concept of Europe’s

first recoverable rocket was sound.

The payload on this test flight, apart from the company’s own technology was a device supplied by the German Centre for Applied Space Technology and Microgravity (ZARM) to measure microgravity conditions and the information obtained during the flight will be used to carry out future experiments.

Acting President Pedro Sánchez took to X (formerly Twitter) to praise the launch which contained 100 per cent Spanish technology and puts Spain at the forefront of space transportation.

After this historic milestone for Spain and Europe, the Launch Director and co ­ founder of PLD Space, Raúl Torres, said “this launch is the result of more than 12 years of hard work, but it is only the beginning of what is to come.”

PRIVATE ROCKET: Moment of take off for MIURA 1.

Credit: PLD Space

IN June 2024, Spain’s national railway company, Renfe, plans to launch its train services between Barcelona and Paris, a month before the 2024 Olympic Games. This revelation came from Susana Lozano, the director of Renfe’s project in France, according to a news source.

Earlier in January, Spain’s Minister of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda, Raquel Sanchez, had optimistically announced that Renfe would reach Paris by the end of 2023.

However, this target soon appeared unattainable. A newspaper source later reported that Renfe had approached SNCF Reseau, the French infrastructure manager, seeking time slots for a spring 2024 commencement.

Renfe’s president, Raul Blanco, during the company’s French operation presentation, mentioned that certain requirements, like the safety certificate for the high­speed line between Paris and Lyon, were still pending.

This route, a lucrative segment of the French railway system, is where Renfe hopes to challenge competitors like SNCF and Trenitalia, mirroring their presence on the Madrid­Barcelona line.

Another setback for Renfe is the delay in receiving the new Avril series 106 trains from Talgo. Initially expected in November, industry insiders now believe the delivery might be pushed to Easter the following year, due to prolonged approval processes in Spain.

Despite these chal ­

ON a recent operation in Sevilla, the Guardia Civil unveiled a massive olive theft scheme, arresting 12 individuals and investigating 11 more. This operation led to the recovery of 73,350 kilograms of stolen olives. The initial phase of the operation, named Alxaraf­Saco, centred on a group from a neighbouring town. They were suspected of stealing significant amounts of copper from crop irrigation systems, severely impacting the irrigation process and fruit quality.

During their probe, officers discovered the group’s leader was also stealing vast amounts of olives. These were secretly delivered to a buyer in Pilas, often under the cover of darkness.

The warehouse owner would then immerse the olives in brine, making them undetectable during inspections. Last month, eight members of this theft ring were apprehended by the Guardia Civil. In the operation’s second phase, experts conducted a thorough inspection of the purchasing centre.

Following this, the warehouse manager was

lenges, Renfe is keen on expanding its brand. After initiating services to Lyon and Marseille, the company has now fully rolled out its operations, offering a daily train to both cities, totalling 28 weekly services.

The company boasts of an impressive over 80 per cent occupancy rate. However, a planned 7 per cent fee hike next year might impact ticket prices and passenger numbers.

Parallelly, Renfe is making strides in Portugal, especially with the upcoming 2030 men’s football World Cup.

The first phase will see the Madrid­ Badajoz line extended to Evora, Portugal’s upcoming highspeed rail destination, by 2024. For this, Renfe requires a safety certificate to operate in Portugal.

Illicit trading

arrested on charges of receiving stolen goods and public health violations. Four of his offspring were also investigated for their role in processing and selling the stolen olives.

Additionally, three individuals were arrested, and seven more were investigated for their involvement in the illicit olive trade. This warehouse, with a notorious history of dealing in stolen olives, had been penalised multiple times in the past. The Guardia Civil confiscated 374 drums of seasoned olives, weighing in at 73,350 kilograms. These olives have an estimated retail value of €500,000. The warehouse was also found guilty of severe violations, including dumping waste on public roads and maintaining an unsanitary septic tank. The judicial authority has since ordered the immediate closure of the facility. The ringleader, previously involved in copper thefts, has been imprisoned.

John Ensor

Credit:

Renfe’s race against time

AFTER ‘freedom of movement’ within most of Europe officially ended on January 1, 2021 it became necessary to get a visa to retire abroad full time.

It seemed that many British pensioners simply abandoned their dreams of retiring to the sun, but as time passed there were still plenty of visits and many decided to opt for a holiday home instead and put up with the 90/180 day rule.

New research by property consultants Your Overseas Home highlights that many British people are coming to terms with postBrexit restrictions, applying for visas and retiring to favourite European destinations in ever greater num­

Brexit retirees

bers. Their experts have compiled new data which shows a return to pre­Brexit levels of interest in retiring to Mediterranean and southern European hotspots.

According to Christopher Nye, chief editor at Your Overseas Home: “Since we started helping British people to buy property in 2004, around two­thirds said they were retiring and a third were buying a holiday home explained “Then, when you started to need a visa many of the retirees gave up on the idea and it became roughly a 50­

50 split between retirees and second homers. Now it seems the retirees are back in force.”

This new data came from a recent YourOverseasHome.com survey which gained over 5,000 responses from people who are in the process of buying a property in France, Spain, Italy, Greece, Cyprus, or Portugal.

Compared with 2022figures, the most popular destinations are Greece, 15 per cent up and France 14 per cent

Closer to home, Spain is another popular option. In­

Owner wanted for deserted village

John Ensor

THE prospect of owning a property in Spain is a dream for many, but how about owning an entire village? Salto de Castro, a picturesque settlement nestled in north ­ western Spain, might just be your answer.

Located near the Portuguese border, Salto de Castro was initially listed on the property site Idealista a year ago for €260,000. It was bought by Oscar Torres for €300,000. However, following an architectural revamp and some local bureaucratic hurdles, the village is back on the market. This time, the price tag has doubled to €580,000, according to a news source.

Constructed in the 1950s by the electric company Iberdrola, Salto de Castro was meant to accommodate families of

workers. These workers were tasked with building a reservoir next to the village. However, once the project concluded, the residents began to depart. By the 1980s, the village stood deserted.

Prior to its current owner, a family initially acquired the village from Iberdrola in the early 2000s. Their vision was to transform Salto de Castro into a tourist haven. Unfortunately, the 2008 financial crisis thwarted their ambitions, leaving the village’s considerable potential unrealised.

The village boasts 44 houses. Prospective buyers will also find a bar, church, and school. There's a guesthouse, and potential for 184 rural tourism spots. There is even a Guardia Civil barracks, a swimming pool, and sports facilities, which all add to the village’s charm.

terest from residents in the UK looking to retire in Spain has increased by 10 per cent since last year, with 58 per cent of respondents saying that they’d like to retire in Spain.

Many pensioners still enjoy retiring to the sun.

Credit: Kampus Productions Pexels

Lacks jurisdiction

John Ensor

ON Friday, October 6, the High Court of England and Wales announced its decision regarding the alleged harassment claims made by Corinna Larsen against King Juan Carlos I, seeking damages of approximately €146 million, according to a news source.

Judge Collins Rice said: “My main conclusion is that the High Court of England and Wales lacks jurisdiction to hear this claim.

“This is because it has not been brought against the defendant in his country of domicile, as is its default right; and the claimant has not persuaded me that she has a strong and arguable case that her claim falls within an exception to that default rule.”

The judge further noted that Juan Carlos I had, through his actions in this litigation, effectively submitted to the jurisdiction of the High Court.

Juan Carlos I’s defence, represented by the British firm Velitor Law, had previously argued in July that the UK courts were not the

appropriate venue for this case.

After Juan Carlos I’s abdication on June 14, 2014, Larsen had publicly expressed her admiration for him, describing him as ‘a man of deep humanity and courage, a loyal and always attentive friend’, and a ‘giant of history’.

However, the defence voiced concerns over allegations suggesting an abuse of power that contradicted the former king’s significant role in Spain’s democratic transition.

Sources reported that the main focus of the hearing was to address preliminary issues, particularly the extent of the former king’s

immunity. On December 6, the Court of Appeal of England and Wales ruled that Juan Carlos I had immunity for actions taken before his 2014 abdication.

This meant that Larsen’s claims, which spanned from 2012 to 2020, could only be considered for events post ­ 2014 in UK courts.

Larsen alleges that after ending their relationship, Juan Carlos I harassed her, initially to reconcile and later to sabotage her business. She sought compensation for mental health treatment costs, personal security measures, and hiring experts to counteract the alleged harassment.

Ultimate James Bond

JAMES BOND DAY was celebrated on October 5. This date was chosen to commemorate the release of the first James Bond film, ‘Dr No’, which premiered on October 5, 1962. The day is dedicated to celebrating the iconic character, the films, the music and everything associated with the world of 007.

Several actors have portrayed James Bond over the years.

The question of which actor played Bond the best is subjective and has been a topic of debate for many years. Each actor brought a unique style and interpretation to the role, and it seems every Bond fan has a different opinion.

• Sean Connery

• George Lazenby

• Roger Moore

• Timothy Dalton

• Pierce Brosnan

• Daniel Craig

Sean Connery is often considered the original and quintessential Bond by many fans. He set the standard for the character with his suave demeanour and charismatic performances.

Roger Moore was famously known for a more humorous and light­hearted take on the character.

Daniel Craig was praised for bringing a grittier, more realistic approach to the role, especially in ‘Casino Royale’.

There is currently much speculation as to which actor will assume the role for the next film. According to Ladbrokes, Aaron Taylor­Johnson, Henry Cavill, James Norton and Rege­Jean Page all appear to be in the running.

So, how did one commemorate 65 years of this cinematic titan? There’s no shortage of ways. Dive into Fleming’s original novels, organise a film marathon, or simply enjoy a classic Bond film with loved ones.

COURT CASE: King Juan Carlos pictured in 2014.

Credit: Gil Corzo/Shutterstock.com

JAMES BOND DAY: In celebration of the iconic character.

photo credit Natalia80/shutterstock.com

DENMARK

Green Denmark

DENMARK is making significant strides in its renewable energy journey. Currently, 60 per cent of the country's electricity comes from renewable sources like offshore and onshore wind turbines. The ambitious goal is to reach 100 per cent by 2030, aligning with their commitment to achieving carbon neutrality in energy by 2050.

Princess’s visit

CROWN Princess Mary of Denmark brought smiles to Bispebjerg Hospital as she arrived, greeted by two hospital clowns. Denmark's innovative approach employs these 'clowns' to brighten the days of children undergoing mental health treatments. Princess Mary, a passionate advocate for mental health awareness, continues to champion various organisations dedicated to this important cause.

BELGIUM PRESS EURO

Craft colas

ALTHOUGH Belgium has a proud history of producing high quality craft beers, there is a new trend which could take off and that is for craft cola. Traditionally there is a fight between Coca-Cola and Pepsi for world domination, but now Belgians appear to be clamouring for locally produced alter colas.

Energy island

THE Belgian government has given the green light to the creation of the world’s

Irish charm

IN the 2023 Conde Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards, both Dublin and Cork ranked among Europe's top three friendliest cities.

Despite recent tourist incidents, Dublin secured third place, while Cork outshined as the second friendliest city in Europe.

Shark discovery

Cyclists enjoy Ritchie Cola.

first energy island named after local Royal Princess Elisabeth. Measuring 60m x 30m x 30m, it should be in place off the coast of Belgium by 2024 and will collect electricity from wind turbines.

NORWAY FRANCE

Norway support

NORWAY joined the European Union's 11th sanctions package against Russia, demonstrating solidarity with EU efforts to condemn Russia's actions in Ukraine. The sanctions aim to strengthen existing measures and prevent circumvention, primarily targeting the flow of funds used by Russia for its aggressive activities.

Nobel Prize

NORWEGIAN writer Jon Fosse, known for his spare Nordic prose, has won the Nobel Prize in literature. His works, spanning plays, novels, and children's books, delve into human insecurity and life's fundamental choices. Fosse's writing, rooted in his Norwegian background, offers a voice to the unsayable, earning him this prestigious recognition.

David Walliams

AUTHOR David Walliams faced unexpected imprisonment in Venice due to an expired passport.

Recounting the seven-hour confinement at the Henley Literary Festival 2023, Walliams humorously noted the incident provided uninterrupted writing time in an Italian cell.

Italy-UK Alliance

ITALY'S Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and UK's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak unite against the migrant crisis. Their joint letter emphasises halting illegal landings and combating human trafficking in Europe. They stress the crisis's ethical, humanitarian, and European dimensions, urging collaborative action.

German friendlies

BAYERN MUNICH coach Thomas Tuchel criticised the German FA for scheduling the national team's mid-season tour of the United States. He expressed concerns about fixture congestion and its impact on player welfare. Germany's friendlies in the US clash with club games, raising questions about the tour's timing and location.

German-American Day

GERMANY's President, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, met with President Biden in Washington on German-American Day, Thursday October 6. This historic date commemorates the arrival of German settlers in Philadelphia in 1683. Steinmeier's visit took place amidst rising concerns in the EU and NATO about ongoing US support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.

Mais non!

USERS of the two Marseilles Metro lines are up in arms about a decision that from October 23 and for the next two years trains will stop running at 9.30pm every weekday in order for there to be safety tests on automated trains, which it is hoped will be introduced into passenger service in due course.

Book backlash

ALTHOUGH not yet donning yellow jackets, book vendors who have small bookstalls along the banks of the Seine in Paris are getting ready to stand against an instruction issued by the Paris police in which they have been told to remove their traditional stalls until after the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games

A NINE-FOOT blue shark was found on Sheep Cove near Clonakilty, Ireland, puzzling experts. Identified as a nearthreatened species, the cause of its death remains unclear.

Dr Danielle Orrell warned the public about potential zoonotic diseases from deceased animals.

Red cards

NORMALLY footballers keep violence to the pitch but on Thursday October 6, two players for Legia Warsaw, which was beaten 1-0 by AZ Alkmaar were arrested for alleged attacks on Alkmar ground staff whilst waiting to board their coach, although Polish media blame riot police for attacking the players.

2,900 artists

THE Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) has completed its programme for 2023 having featured 2,900 artists and has now unveiled a special collaboration with Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum and DJ upsammy. ‘Breathe, Walk, Die’, a unique performance where art and music converge under the Rijksmuseum, on Wednesday, October 18 at 7.30pm and will be streamed live on ADE’s channels.

PORTUGAL SWEDEN

Miss Portugal

MARINA MACHETE made history when she was proclaimed winner of the Miss Portugal beauty contest. The 28-year-old flight attendant became the first-ever transgender woman to win the iconic pageant in the country. As a result, the Miss Portugal will now participate in the 72nd Miss Universe contest which will be held this year on November 18 in the capital of El Salvador.

Brief encounter

ALTHOUGH it happened a few weeks ago, online news site Page Six has just revealed that not only did Prince Harry and Meghan Markle enjoy a private holiday in Portugal, but they also bumped into American actor Chris Evans and his new wife Alba Baptista in a local restaurant and the couples enjoyed some time together.

FINLAND

Career shift

FORMER Finnish Prime Minister, Sanna Marin, has transitioned from politics to entertainment, joining talent agency Range Media Partners, known for representing Hollywood elites. After gaining global recognition for her leadership, Marin's new venture includes collaboration with the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change.

Digital passport

FINLAND, in partnership with Finnair and other agencies, has introduced the world's first digital passport, as reported by the Economic Times This mobile app allows travellers to store and display passport details, streamlining the travel process. The EU supports such digital advancements, with a pilot phase underway for select Finnair flights.

New technology

LATEST innovation at Sweden's Kapellskar Port is a pioneering auto mooring technology enhancing mooring efficiency and sustainability, according to port officials. It works by fastening the ship to the dock using vacuum pads attached to the ship's hull, completely eliminating the need for traditional mooring ropes and can dock the ship in 30 seconds.

Flat pack

FOLLOWING in the footsteps of Swedish giant IKEA, a small start-up company Luvly, which was only created in 2015 is now marketing a flat pack electric car which it says is not only easy to assemble, but cuts down the carbon emissions associated with delivery of pre-built vehicles.

Credit: Instagram

BUSINESS EXTRA

Sail away

THE Barclay family, which owes approximately £1 billion (€1.15 billion), is currently fighting to retain the Telegraph newspaper group, due to be auctioned this month. They are now selling the 60­metre Lady Beatrice superyacht, which has a crew of 17 and costs a monthly €3.14 million to run, for €22 million.

High and low

STATISTICS from Spain’s tax authority Hacienda, once again revealed the prosperous leafy problem of Pozuelo de Alarcon as the country’s most affluent municipality with an average per capita gross income of €80,244. Least well ­ off was Higuera de Vargas (Badajoz) where each inhabitant had a per head income of €12,737.

Try again

POUNDLAND, which bought 71 of Wilko’s 398 stores from administrators PwC, offered jobs to more than 200 of its ex­employees. Although staff transfers were not included in the deal, Poundland said Wilko applicants would be first in line for jobs in the new shops operating under its own brand.

Settle up

THE Upper Court of Catalonia (TSJC) ordered regional government, the Generalitat, to pay €80.9 million plus interest for improvements that Spain’s state railway operator Renfe carried out for the region’s suburban train network between 2016 and 2019. Generalitat sources announced that they would appeal against the ruling.

Home and dry

SHARES in the Superdry clothing company surged after the group revealed plans to sell 76 per cent of its intellectual property assets in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh to India’s largest retailer, Reliance Retail. Superdry expects gross cash proceeds of £30.4 million (€31.1 million) from the £40 million (€46.2 million) agreement.

STAT OF WEEK €94 billion

in additional credits in loans and transfers confirmed by the European Commission for Spain, with the proviso that it complies with the agreed timetable and objectives.

Cutting costs John Lewis exit

SHARON WHITE, executive chair of the John Lewis Partnership, will step down in February 2025 when her five­year term ends.

Her predecessors remained at John Lewis for stints lasting between 13 and 26 years, making White the retailer’s shortest­serving chair. It is understood that she will not receive a payoff from the £1.1 million (€1.27 million) a year post.

The Partnership lost £234 million (€270.34 million) last year and in March, staff who are partners as well as employees, had to forego their annual bonus for only

the second time since the scheme was introduced in 1953.

On announcing her exit, White also requested a review of the chair’s accountabilities to ensure continuity in the business’s ‘successful’ transformation.

The Partnership is making progress in its modernisation and transformation with improving results,” she said. “There is a long road ahead and I am committed to handing on the strongest possible Partnership to my successor.”

EMPLOYEES at the Big Four consultancies have worked ‘marathon hours’ in Spain.

A Ministry of Labour investigation into practices and working conditions at Deloitte, Pricewaterhouse Coopers (PwC), Ernst and Young (EY) and KPMG, which began in November 2022 resulted in fines totalling a minimum of €1.4 million.

Officials probed whether employees worked longer hours than records showed, as none of the companies had the clocking on and clocking off facilities that are legally required since 2019.

Twelve­hour working days were usual at PwC in Madrid, former employee Sergio Padilla told Euronews.

Not so cheap

OPTING for organic products does not come cheap in Spain.

A survey by the Financial Users Associacion (Asufin) revealed that a typical basket of everyday organic products bought in a supermarket costs €280.82 compared with €141.17 for ordinary items, an increase of 98.9 per cent.

The study of 109 basic products was based on purchases from Alcampo, Carrefour, El Corte Ingles, Aldi and Lidl. Merdadona was excluded from the study as its offer is not considered ‘officially’ organic, based on the popular chain’s labelling system.

According to retail analyst Neil Saunders from GlobalDataRetail, Sharon White

never been the right person to chair John Lewis, which also owns Waitrose.

“She didn’t cause all of the issues the company faces, but she’s also done much damage,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).

This included a plan to sell a stake in the company to raise more than £1 billion (€1.15 billion) which would have flown in the face of the traditional staff partnership. The plan was dropped after Stone won a vote of confidence by a narrow margin during the staff council’s twice­yearly meeting in May.

Big Four’s big demands

suffers from “major workforce fatigue,” according to Raul de la Torre, an official from the Comisiones Obreras (CCOO) trade union.

Some months ago, companies had attempted to impose contractual agreements to work up to 12 hours a day from Monday to Saturday, without any additional compensation.

TELEFONICA has announced plans to close 108 properties belonging to its Operations division, responsible for the company’s fibre optic and 5G programme.

“This initiative affects low­occupancy buildings with 15 or fewer employees, who will now relocate to offices in their provincial capitals,” Telefonica explained, revealing reskilling plans enabling staff to obtain new qualifications. Closing the properties, scheduled for 2023 and 2024, will enable the company to make savings on energy, security and insurance costs, together with upkeep. This could also pave the way for selling the buildings at a later date, as Telefonica has already done with its old exchanges.

Rail takeover

Padilla ­ a fictitious name to protect his identity ­ was expected to work from 9am until 9pm although he regarded this as normal as his colleagues were in the same situation. The consultancy sector in Spain

All together now

THE Daily Mail and Sun newspapers announced plans to combine their printing operations. Between them, Lord Rothermere’s Daily Mail and General Trust (DMGT) and Rupert Murdoch’s News UK own the Daily Mail, Mail on Sunday, the i newspapers, Times and Sunday Times.

The joint­venture will also print the Telegraph, Evening Standard and Financial Times, which closed down its presses in 2022, as well as Metro, plus publications for regional publisher Newsquest, New Scientist and John Lewis.

The move is likely to entail closing printing sites at Thurrock (Essex) and Dinnington (near Sheffield). It also means that all national newspapers in the UK will now be controlled by two conglomerates.

The second of these, Reach Newspapers, which owns the Mirror and Daily Express, also prints other titles, which include the Guardian

Working conditions had worsened since 2008 although companies have reported record profits, with the Big Four making €2.5 billion during 2021 according to the financial daily, Expansion.

Wine scam claims

BODEGA chiefs Felix Solis Yañez and Jose Garcia Carrion Jodan are both facing charges of misleading advertising, alleged fraud and false documentation.

Solis and Garcia Carrion, who head bodegas that are household names, have been called to testify under caution before the National High Court judge Jose Luis Calama in Madrid on December 4.

Their wineries are suspected of marketing Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva wines which did not meet requirements regarding the necessary ageing period or the time spent in oak barrels or in the bottle.

The wine ­ certifying bodies Sohiscert and Liec Agroalimentaria are also under scrutiny for having “necessarily” cooperated in the fraud.

THE Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) approved Hitachi’s proposed £1.5 billion (€1.73 billion) takeover of Thales’ rail infrastructure. It gave the go­ahead after the Japanese multinational agreed to sell off its mainline signalling businesses in the UK, France and Germany. Describing the takeover as an “effective and proportionate remedy” the CMA said offloading some of Hitachi’s rail assets safeguarded competition and guaranteed the merger would not negatively affect clients like Network Rail. It also cautioned it would need to approve the buyers of Hitachi’s businesses while the company’s principal customers should agree to transferring the signalling contracts.

Boohoo not too happy

ONLINE fast fashion specialist Boohoo predicts that annual sales will tumble by between 12 and 17 per cent.

The retailer, which foresaw sales dipping 5 per cent, said they fell more than expected this year owing to strong competition from Shein, its Chinese rival, coupled to a resurgence of high street shopping.

Sales fell 17 per cent to £729 million (€842.7 million) in the six months to August 31, putting the company £11 million (€12.7 million) deeper into debt than the previous year, with losses of £26.4 million (€30.5 million).

SHARON WHITE: No second term for John Lewis chair.

MADRID: PwC consultancy located in the capital’s business district.

Photo credit: CC/Luis Rogelio HM

Photo credit: Retail Week

DOW JONES

Merger doubts

BRITAIN’S Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said that Turkish multinational Arçelik’s plans to purchase Whirlpool could restrict the choice in washing machines, tumble dryers, dishwashers and cooking appliances throughout Europe. The merged company would become the largest individual supplier of these items, worth more than £3.8 bn (€4.38 bn).

Digi wins

ROMANIA­ BASED telecoms company Digi added 469,000 new mobile phone customers between January and September this year, with another 125,000 opting for landlines. Telefonica lost 234,000 customers during this period, Orange lost 130,000 mobile lines but added 9,000 landlines while Vodafone lost a total of 465,000 lines.

Single-digit food inflation

FOOD prices in the UK fell for the first time in more than two years.

Food inflation slowed to 9.9 per cent in September, a sizeable drop from 11.5 per cent in August, according to the British Retail Consortium (BRC).

“This is below the threemonth average rate of 11.4 per cent and is the fifth consecutive deceleration in the food category. Inflation is at its lowest since August 2022,” the consortium an­

No HS2 fallout

SPANISH multinationals are unaffected by Britain’s PM Rishi Sunak’s decision to cancel the northern leg of the HS2 high speed project.

The North of England’s biggest ­ ever rail investment would have been Europe’s largest infrastructure project but, owing to government concerns regarding the cost, HS2 will stop in Birmingham.

Dragados, part of the ACS group, to­

gether with the UK company Mace, won a €2 billion contract in February 2019 to build Euston’s six­ platform high speed terminus.

Neither this, nor the €600 million contract for another station in Birmingham allocated to Dragados ­ Mace in 2021, will be hit by the cancellation.

Ferrovial, awarded €2.6 billion contracts to build several HS2 sections, is similarly unaffected by Sunak’s decision.

Good job

nounced on October 3.

Food prices dropped on the previous month for the first time since 2021 owing to “fierce competition” between retailers, the BRC’s chief executive Helen Dickinson said.

Meanwhile, Tesco chief executive Ken Murphy told the BBC that the supermarket chain, the UK’s biggest, tried to lower prices wherever possible as customers contended with cost­of­living demands.

Over the six months ending in August, Tesco sales rose 8.4 per cent compared with the same period in 2022, largely due to increased prices. Retail profits rose 13.5 per cent to £1.4 billion (€1.61 billion), as the retailer cut its own costs and attracted more customers.

The chain has now forecast annual profits of between £2.6 and £2.7 billion (€3 and €3.1 billion), up from its previous £2.5 billion (€2.9 billion).

BANCA MARCH, Takeda, Generali, GSK and Schneider Electric were named as the five best companies to work for in Spain. A survey by workplace experts A Great Place to Work put the companies at the head of their 2023 rankings on the strength of their records for equality, training and talent search programmes, labour flexibility and employee care.

Charge sheet

THE UK needs more mechanics qualified to repair and maintain electric vehicles (EVs), Warrantywise chief executive Lawence Whittaker said. Despite extending the deadline ban on diesel and petrol vehicles “we don’t have the talent to look after the EVs of today, and we’re not doing enough to prepare for the future regardless of whether that’s 2030 or 2035.”

KEN MURPHY: Tesco tries to lower prices, chief executive said.

Personal experience

ONE of the interesting aspects of ageing is that your opinions have often been arrived at through your own personal experience. Some, who disagree with your sentiments, have never actually borne past witness to the situations they dispute and are reaching their assumptions merely through circumstances arising in the present.

Unfortunately, many often retain very little knowledge of how they truly came about. Apartheid in South Africa was an episode I became very involved in during my early days in the world of pop.

Consequently, when I broach this particular subject, my opinion is not based on a mind set of racism or anti­black sentiments, far from it. During that time I was utterly opposed to the state of affairs that had befallen the South African black population.

When one day I was approached by a British theatrical agency, I simply couldn’t

wait to do what I could to further the ante apartheid cause. Equity, the performers union felt the same. However they had decided to show their opinion by what I considered ‘fence sitting’ and merely banned all white artists from appearing in that country. To me this was a ludicrous decision; it meant that no member of the population black or white could ever enjoy white entertainers in any capacity whatsoever.

I was then informed that 60s pop icon Sandy Shaw felt the same way. I had been a fan of Sandy’s for years and felt very humble; comparing my own single chart success against the avalanche of great hits she had already delivered to her millions of fans. Her brilliant rendition of Puppet on a String had in fact won her the Eurovision song contest.

The Equity Union had given instructions that any artist who went against their orders would subsequently be banned from performing, anywhere! We both decided with our managements to oppose their ruling. After a series of meetings they caved in. We agreed that we would only appear in venues prepared to admit both black and white au­

diences. Against all the opposition, many who were strongly against our antiapartheid views, the tour finally went ahead and what a success it was.

Although the audiences were segregated and the black citizens were put in the cheapest seats, we had gained a great victory and even played an all­black prefabricated venue in Soweto. The apartheid supporters had lost their racist battle and with Equity’s changed ruling, a whole host of British and European acts began to once more appear in that great, but sadly mistreated African country.

So you see my adversary against the new regime of SA government policies and the aggression against its white inhabitants is not a result of any racial ideals, but a reaction to the days when I and others took risks to help oust the white supremacist that once ruled the country.

Frankly the precondition to witness the hostility against the white citizens and farmers being murdered for their land was not what we had in mind at all. No matter what colour they are. Keep the Faith Love Leapy.

Leapylee2002@gmail.com

DEFIBRILLATORS SAVE LIVES OUR VIEW

IT is estimated that every year more than 30,000 people die in Spain due to cardiac arrest (heart attacks).

Councils across the country have over the years installed defibrillators in official buildings as well as municipal sports centres in order to try to help save lives.

The defibrillator is basically a device designed to deliver an electric charge to the heart and hopefully allow it to start beating again normally.

It is equipped with sensors that analyse the heart’s rhythm and indicate the right time to apply a charge and at what intensity.

It is not particularly difficult to use one of these devices, but to really help save lives everyone should have prior training and this is clearly not possible.

The good news however is that when a defibrillator has been installed in a council property, there will be someone who has been properly trained to use it.

The drawback of course is that the victim of the heart attack must be near to the site of the machine and also council offices tend to close relatively early in the day, although airports, bus terminals, stations and large shopping centres, as well as pharmacies also possess them.

In some cases, the defibrillator is automatically linked to 112 emergency services, but each Autonomous Community has its own rules about use of the defibrillator with some deciding that it can only be used by a trained operator.

Unlike the UK there doesn’t appear to be an online defibrillator finder for Spain, so it’s best to contact your local council to ask for information on where its machines are located.

10 QUIRKIEST HOTEL STAYS IN SPAIN

By Emma Mitchell

THE Futurotel is a blend of futuristic, retro and jungle. If you’re a sci­fi fan, the spaceship­style pod rooms are for you; boasting smart screens for those who like to interface with their apps on every conceivable surface and smart toilets for those who like to interface with their… never mind. For would­be Tarzans, there’s a jungle­themed room and the hotel has carried that theme over to its spa facilities. The hotel also offers its guests free use of a retro gaming room and use of e­bikes.

• TWO: BE A HIGH FLYER AT HOTEL VUELING BCN.

Located on the Atlantic coast of Spain, the hotel is a collection of large bubbles that offer a panoramic view of the stars from the comfort of a king ­ size bed. Stays include a telescope, astronomy guide and planisphere and, though there’s no on­site restaurant, a gourmet meal can be ordered for delivery to your door to allow guests to eat and star­gaze.

• FOUR: FUN FOR THE LITTLE KIDS AND THE BIG KIDS AT HOTEL DEL JUGUETE.

• FIVE: BE THE CAPTAIN OF

They say it’s all about the journey, not the destination and if you subscribe to that philosophy you’re going to love this hotel in Barcelona which goes out of its way to make you feel as though you never got off the plane.

Where activities for children are a side note in most hotels, they are the focus for Hotel Del Juguete. This Alicante hotel features family rooms themed for different toys and movies. Get prepared to wow your child by booking into the Lego, Hot Wheels, Barbie or Marvel room (to name but a few) that, as well as the usual hotel room amenities, also boast themed toys and games. The hotel has game rooms, trampolines and everything to keep the little and big kids happy.

A ‘flotel’ of brightly coloured mini houseboats afloat in Gibraltar with standard ­ sized units featuring two bedrooms, a full kitchen, sun terrace with loungers and courtesy bikes to tour the area. Boat Haus gives guests the opportunity to enjoy great views of the rock whilst bobbing in the tranquil waters of the marina.

• SIX: GET A HEART OF GLASS AT LES COLS PAVELLONS

Tucked away on the Costa Granadina, Casa Acantilado is a house fit for The Game of Thrones. A sinuous scaled roof slopes down to a terrace with an infinity pool overlooking the sea. The inside is as stunning as the outside with furniture that was digitally designed specifically to blend with the architecture.

• EIGHT: ONE RING TO BIND THEM AT SOLO OFFICE

A Marriot luxury collection hotel designed by the world­renowned architect, Frank O Gehry, the Marques De Riscal is a class stay. Set amid the Marqués de Riscal vineyards, the hotel features sweeping undulations of titanium and steel that house avant ­ garde rooms and a Michelin­star restaurant. This wine lovers’ haven offers vineyard tours, a winery and a team of vinotherapists who employ the properties of both grape and vine in a range of beauty therapies.

• TEN: CASTAWAY AT THE

Set in the heart of the Garrotxa Volcanic Nature Reserve, Les Cols Pavellons is a collection of pavilions with glass ceilings, walls and floors for a truly transparent experience. With a focus on Zen philosophy, the pavilions blend nature with heated Japanese onsen bathing, futons and architectural lighting for atmospheric evenings. Nearby is the two­star Michelin restaurant Les Cols at Olot for those in the market for some classy Spanish food.

Set in Matarrana, an area known as the Tuscany of Spain, Solo Office is a building that’s had the architectural world buzzing. The house, set on a plateau in the 100­hectare site overlooking the Mediterranean, is a ring ­ shaped, three ­ bedroomed ultra­modern building that allows guests to open up every room to the outside to blur the lines between nature and living space.

Occupying a lofty position in Loiba on the north west coast of Spain, The Hidden Secret on the Cliff is a house of angles with large sweeps of glass to make the most out of the Atlantic seascape. Featuring a wood ­ burning stove and chic modern furnishings with a Scandinavian feel, the house is close to stunning deserted beaches and lots of opportunities for walking and cycling with the courtesy bikes supplied.

• ONE: BECOME TARZAN OF YOUR OWN TOILET AT THE FUTUROTEL GRANADA SPA GARDEN.

• THREE: REACH FOR THE STARS AT BURBUJAS ASTRONÓMICAS ALBARARI CORUÑA.

• SEVEN: HERE BE DRAGONS AT CASA ACANTILADO

• NINE: ROCK THE RIOJA AT THE MARQUES DE RISCAL

Rumble in the jungle.

Credit: futurotelgranadaspagarden.com

Cabin class.

Credit: vivehotels.com

SPAIN HAS MANY WONDERFUL HOTELS TO CATER FOR ALL TASTES, FROM HISTORIC PARADORES TO THE ALL-INCLUSIVE COSTA RESORT HOTELS. IF YOU ARE ADVENTUROUS, TRY OUR TOP 10 QUIRKY STAYS IN SPAIN.

Star gazey and pie.

Credit: booking.com

A wheely good room.

Credit:

Aye aye Captain.

Total transparency.

Dragon’s breath.

Cosy cliff-top.

Beyond the bouquet

DON’T underestimate the power of rose water; it’s not just a pretty scent. Rich in antioxidants, rose water offers a host of benefits that extend far beyond its aroma. A natural moisturiser, it revitalises dry skin and soothes irritation. Its anti ­ inflammatory properties help reduce redness and combat acne. Incorporate this ver ­

Not just a pretty scent.

satile elixir into your beauty routine ­ use it as a toner, a make ­ up remover, or even a calming

Dementia: The power of prevention

BRITISH researchers have pinpointed 11 crucial risk factors that could determine one’s likelihood of developing dementia in the next 14 years. What’s more, many of these factors are modifiable, offering hope for prevention, according to a news source.

facial mist.

The allure of rose water is more than skin deep.

World Bald Day

EVERY year on October 14, people around the globe come together to celebrate World Bald Day.

This unique observance isn’t just about hair loss; it’s about embracing confidence and self­identity. Baldness affects millions of men and women, often due to genetics, medical conditions, or personal choice.

World Bald Day serves as a reminder that beauty and self ­ worth extend be ­

yond one’s appearance. It’s a day to show support for those who are bald and proud, promoting self ­ acceptance and self­esteem.

Many communities organise events to raise awareness and celebrate the strength and character of those who boldly embrace their baldness. So, whether youire bald or not, take a moment on this day to appreciate the diversity and resilience of individuals worldwide.

The ground ­ breaking study, led by Oxford University and published in BMJ Mental Health, emphasises the importance of understanding and potentially altering these risk factors.

The UK Biobank Dementia Risk Score (UKBDRS) was developed after a comprehensive analysis of these factors, outperforming other global risk scores.

The 11 identified factors

• Age: Older individuals naturally have a higher risk.

• Education: Lower educational levels can increase vulnerability.

• History of diabetes : Managing and preventing

DEMENTIA: Understand the potential risks.

diabetes can reduce the risk.

• History of or current depression: Mental health plays a pivotal role.

• History of stroke : Stroke survivors need to be vigilant.

• Parental dementia : A family history can increase one’s chances.

• Economic challenges : Financial stability and mental well­being are interconnected.

• High blood pressure : Regular check ­ ups and management are essential.

• High cholesterol: A bal­

anced diet and regular monitoring can help.

• Living alone : Social connections and interactions are protective.

• Being male : Men are slightly more at risk than women.

With an estimated 50 million people globally affected by dementia, and numbers set to triple by 2050, the emphasis on these modifiable factors is more crucial than ever.

By addressing them it is believed that up to 40 per cent of dementia cases could be averted.

Advertising Feature Voss Homes

Property of the week Villa Guitarrista in La Alfoquia

EXCLUSIVE TO VOSS HOMES ­ A beautifully presented, recently improved and decorated modern and homely, three bed, two bath, villa for sale in La Alfoquia. With H&C air con, quality above ground pool and sun roof on a private easy maintained garden of 408m2.

Walking distance to the municipal swimming pool, shops, restaurants, banks, bowling green, doctors and vets etc in the popular village of La Alfoquia. Twenty ­ five to 30 minutes drive to the beaches at Vera, Garrucha and Mojacar.

Villa Guitarrista is in ‘as new’ condition with its modern, ‘clean lines’, large windows and white doors and wardrobe doors givng this villa a light, spacious, contemporary and homely feel. A clever design, lots of storage and no wasted space makes this home feel much larger than expected.

The driveway with sliding metal door (could be made to open electrically) leads on to the gravelled driveway for two or three cars. To the front and other side is

the main garden which is beautifully designed with attractive imprinted concrete where you will find the quallity above ground splash pool and covered seating areas. To the rear of the villa are further gravelled garden and two garden sheds.

External stairs lead up to the sunroof with all round views over the neighbouring roof tops and countryside. Underneath the stairs is a storage cupboard with sink.

The villa comprises of a covered veranda which looks over the main garden and

pool. The front door then leads in to the spacious, light and airy living room / dining room with ceiling fan and glazed double doors leading back out to the front garden. Opposite the dining area is the large modern style fitted kitchen with recently purchased appliances and plenty of cupboards and worktop space.

A corridor leads down to the three double bedrooms, all with built in wardobes. The larger than average master bedroom with twin built in wardrobes, ceiling fan and separate ensuite shower

Ref. VH2208

€184,950 euros

room with walk in shower. There are two more guest double bedrooms. Both have built in wardrobes. One bedroom is currently used as a study. Next is the family bathroom with useful storage cupboard.

Voss Homes is a British family­run business with an office in the village of La Alfoquia and the thriving, market town of Huercal­Overa. We are the main selling agent for the Huercal­Overa, Zurgena, La Alfoquia and Taberno area. We look forward to helping you find your ideal property in Spain.

For more information or to arrange a viewing of VH2229 please contact Voss Homes on 0034 950 616 827 or email us atenquiries@vosshomesspain.com.

THE British Benevolent Fund was founded over a century ago to provide financial assistance for British nationals in extreme financial distress and who have no other recourse, whether friends or family or state support. The BBF works with partner charities from www.supportinspain.info across the country as well as the UK’s consular network in Spain in order to help those who have no other means and are facing dire financial straitsoften brought on through no fault of their own.

Rachel is a single motherrecently split from her ex partner. As the split became final she decided to take a short holiday with their son to Spain. She booked flights and told him the plan. To her surprise he offered to pay for the hotel. It seemed a nice gesture and hopefully a sign of some stability for their child.

The hotel he had chosen was lovely ­ and expensiveand it was too good to be true ­ on arriving late at night she discovered to her horror that he hadn’t made any reservation at all. Indeed, the confirmation he had sent was a fake one. To make matters worse ­

Providing support

when she tried to pay for the night while she looked for something more economical, she found her card didn’t work. She would find out later that the bank account which was still shared with him had been blocked. She had nowhere to go with a young child in the dead of night and no money nor access to money. She tried phoning her mum but she was asleep ­ there was no answer anywhere.

The hotel manager took pity and gave her a small guest room till morning.

It was then that we were alerted to her situation by the British consulate who had been informed by the hotel. We were able to help her with food, emergency accommodation and a flight back the next day back to the UK.

She sent a heartfelt note of thanks. You never know when you might be stuck. The BBF can only help people like Rachel with your support ­ if you would like to make a donation to the British Benevolent Fund please visit our website www.britishbenevolent fund.org ­ thank you on behalf of the many for your help.

Olaf Clayton, Chair BBF

MODERN VILLA: A clever design with lots of storage and no wasted space makes this home feel much larger than expected.

Olaf Clayton of BBF.

https://euroweeklynews.com/2023/10/05/brexit-factor-no-longer-puts-off-retirees/ WE recently published an article about Brexit and the fact that some British pensioners are apparently no longer put off from retiring to the Mediterranean including Spain, despite the 90/180 day or visa rule.

It was based on research undertaken by an online estate agent and some readers have commented that they think it was an advert for that company, but we can confirm that all paid for articles are either marked sponsored or advertorial.

As this was a positive survey which said that the Spanish market was still attractive to those retiring on British pensions (and don’t forget many people receive significant private pensions as well as the State pension) we believed it in order to summarise the content. Here are some of the comments that readers made:

No change, the 90/180 day rule still applies. People I know have sold or are selling, but this is a nice advert with a link to an estate agent with the hope of reviving the housing market. The main problem is proving you have an income of over €35k for two people to become a resident.

Martin

“Just a few forms to fill in?????? What planet is he on?”

Algoz

This doesn’t solve the problem of the 90/180 rule, be careful.

Charles

Indeed ! The days of arriving in Spain with £500 and then disappearing within a caravan ‘off grid’ with an expired or lost passport, have gone. Thus only comparatively ‘well-to-do’ folk will now arrive for permanent stays.

Robert Faraday

I agree with Martin. What is the point of surveying your own clients. They have already made up their minds to look for a property abroad. I own three properties in Spain, two of which are long term lets and one we use as a holiday home for our family. For what it costs and will cost in the future, we could have had some great monthly rents in many different countries. If you are going to live in another country, find out all the ongoing costs and what you will need to know about medical care as you get into later years. Most go back home.

Chris

In reply to Martin

Yep you’re right, it’s a big sales advert. I returned from Spain as they made it so hard to

stay with the earnings rule, indeed the response I got was basically British F Off.. Despite owning a home and NEVER claiming a euro, but paid in over 200k. They were so unhelpful and gave us grief over all attempts to stay.

Pete

In reply to Pete

I can confirm to readers that this was not an advert, simply a report of the findings of that company. The good thing is that whilst the report was positive about Spain, the article is receiving comments which we are happy to post. It’s all about communication and sharing opinions.

John Smith

In reply to Pete

Having your own home should have helped Pete, as you would not need to find rent. Apart from such an income required, if you are not of retirement age you would also have to pay for private medical insurance until you are a pensioner, which is not cheap if you are in your 60s. Have you thought about trying Portugal? That’s where people with a lower income are heading now. You only need to show an income of €12,690 per couple. Here is some info to compare both countries. Two UK state pensions are not enough for Spain. https://iasservices.org.uk/proof-of-in come-for-spanish-residency/ https://www.atlys.com/country/portugal/ national-type-d-7-visa

The days of doing little jobs for cash to pay the rent in your caravan are over sadly. Back to the UK with cap in hand because you can’t stay under the radar forever. Overstay 90 days and they can refuse to let you back in in the future. Sad times.

Martin

Property of the week Your dream coastal destination

THIS beautifully presented property is for sale in San Juan de Los Terreros, by Grupo Platinum Estates. Two bedroom villa is located in a very quiet and relaxing location approximately 10 minutes walk from the seafront, with bars and restaurants. Private off road parking to the side of the property makes this property even more unique. Set behind a private gate, is a lovely garden area, which is easily maintained.

This is a property with a homely feel from the moment you step inside. The property is being sold fully finished ready to move into for full time living or a rental property. Lovely hallway with storage cupboards, a very spacious living area with a lot of light, two sets of patio doors which close into the wall bringing the outside in. Leading out to the partly covered terrace with plenty of seating for dining and enjoying the sunshine. This area also leads down to the steps to a large underbuild area, currently used for storage.

Back inside the property, into the lounge area, a log burning fireplace is a fabulous feature of this room. Hot and cold air conditioning, ceiling fans and towards the kitchen, a spacious dining area. A modern fully fitted and equipped kitchen with all white goods. A utility area is home to the washing machine. A small home

office is a fabulous space to have too. Two very spacious bedrooms each with fitted wardrobes, hot and cold air conditioning. A family bathroom with a separate shower and a bath.

A separate WC completes the inside. The utility area has a staircase that leads to the roof solarium, a very private space with fabulous sea views. Plenty of space for outside dining, sun­

bathing, maybe a hot tub can become pride of place here? Whichever is your pastime. There is also a large underground storeroom. The property is located in a beautiful urbanisation with a private road, beautiful green gardens, and yet just a short walk to the amenities of the area. Call us now to organise a viewing in person or a live video link 950 466 112

€159,500 euros

Open all year round, San Juan de Los Terreros has facilities covering all your daily needs, schools, medical centre, bars, shops, restaurants, beachfront bars chiringuitos, gymnasiums and much more. Well located close to all good road networks and a rail network, offering a train ride to any destination you wish, including Pulpi, Aguilas, Murcia and beyond with their diverse commercial centres and range of services associated with much larger towns, a short car journey away.

Airports, within 55 minutes decide between, Corvera Region of Murcia, Almeria or an hour and a half, Alicante. There are many beaches, blue flag beaches, as well as coves safe for the whole family and disabled people. Aguilón Golf is just 3km away from the town centre, whilst Desert Springs, Marina de la Torre and Valle de Este Golf can all be found not too far away.

Finally, this town is home to the largest Geoda in Europe, crystals underground in a cave, which is the largest in Europe and the only Geoda possible to visit. San Juan de Los Terreros, a real gem of an area already enjoyed all year round by a multinational community of mixed ages, who live here and work, not just play! Yet still a very Spanish, paradise, not to be missed!

Beautiful villa set in a quiet and relaxing location just 10 minutes from the seafront.

Lucy & Luna love their dog-sitter

A GOOD dog sitter is worth their weight in gold

As Lucy our pet owner member found when she matched with Sonya a free checked house­sitter on Housesitmatcha good dog sitter who doesn’t cost the earth is worth their weight in gold. Sonya loves spending time with Luna, Lucy’s dog in her home, it’s a refreshing change of scene for her and she enjoys caring for and walking Luna. She doesn’t charge Lucy a penny, because it is undertaken as a fair exchange.

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

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

READER OFFER

Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com

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

Pets passing through airports

PASSENGERS travelling with pets are being cautioned not to place their animals through X ­ ray machines at international airports. Air travel authorities worldwide have issued reminders after several incidents of animals being inadvertently screened by security equipment.

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

While pets need to pass through airport security detectors, they shouldn’t be sent on conveyor belts like luggage. Instead, they should be removed from their carriers and carried through by passengers, either in arms or walking alongside. “It’s common for pets to accompany their owners on journeys and they are often regarded as family. It’s crucial for travellers to be wellversed with the security measures for pets to ensure a smooth security check,” stated an official

from an international air travel organisation.

A vital point in pet security screening is understanding that they must not be subjected to X ­ ray scans. While empty pet carriers should be screened like any other luggage, travellers are reminded that regulations regarding pet travel might differ from one airport or airline to another.

Recently, an incident was reported where a small dog was mistakenly sent through an X­ray machine after being concealed in a traveller’s bag. The dog appeared slightly agitated afterward, but was otherwise fine. This incident occurred shortly after a cat was found and rescued from a suitcase at a major international airport.

Finding a great dog-sitter gives real peace of mind when you’re away from home.

AIRPORT SCANNERS: Pets shouldn’t be treated like luggage.

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

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)

at www.almeria-anglican.com. Here you can also find information about funerals, baptisms and wedding blessings. We are an inclusive church. (10002)

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 LEGIONWhy 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)

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

WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel –678 716 693 (288662)

MOTOR INSURANCE . For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 952 147 834, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 952 147 834 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726)

STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www.abbey gateinsure.com

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

FOR SALE

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

EDS? We have the solution, Kamagra pills & jells, Cialis, Sidenafil, over 7 products for men & ladies, mixed trial packs.Available by mailorder. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394

KNOWLES PLUMBING No 1 for all plumbing jobs big or small. Central heating, solar hot water and water deposits.

Tel: 606 807 797 or 684 143 560 (303577)

Local Anglican (CofE) Church Services take place at Mojacar and Llanos del Peral (Zurgena) churches every Sunday 11am and at Aljambra Chapel (Albox) monthly. Dates and details of our services, including directions and contact details, can be found

THE FIVE BONE HOTEL, TURRE. Little dogs €7.75, medium dogs €8.50, big dogs €9.25, cats from €7.00 a day. 630 234 556 / the5bonehotel turre@gmail.com fiveboneho tel.com (303395)

SOLAR WIND POWER SOLUTIONS. Over 20 years installation experience. Established 17 years in Spain. Call Phil for competitive prices on 636 261 240 or email info@sunergyalmeria.com (303112)

ROAD TEST

by Mark Slack

IN its latest project, Lunaz has elevated a Rolls­Royce Silver Cloud II, first built in 1960 and owned by Oscarwinning actress Sophia Loren, to fully ­ electric power. The motor car was commissioned by The Largo hotel, Porto, Portugal.

Only the sophisticated and celebrated Silver Cloud II silhouette remains ­ every surface, inside and out, has been modernised and upgraded. The vehicle’s coachwork is now finished in a bespoke two­tone finish, with the upper portion in Shale over a Rich Gold lower with matching wheel centres. The interior is trimmed in Sage leather with classic burr walnut wood detailing; the carpets from Sedna, which are woven using material from reclaimed nylon fishing nets and use a backing made from recycled ocean plastics, are finished in a Quartz colour with Gray Owl edge binding.

Former Sophia Loren vintage Rolls-Royce gains new electric life

Bentley and Rolls­Royce, as well as one notable long wheelbase classic Range Rover commission, which will be used to transport hotel guests on challenging off­road terrain.

Within the restoration process, hotel customers are able to benefit from near­limitless possibilities for personalisation.

As with every car by Lunaz the original petrol engine has been replaced with a specifically engineered version of Lunaz’ proprietary electric powertrain and battery.

Indeed, the original Rolls­Royce Silver Cloud II was engineered for nearsilent running, a characteristic the electric powertrain only serves to elevate and enhance.

The entire Lunaz eleva ­

tion process has been carried out at the company’s purpose ­ built production and research facility at Silverstone, UK.

The Silver Cloud II was intended primarily for chauffeur­driven use, and Lunaz has integrated a suite of modern features to create a serene, relaxing environment for rear­seat passengers. These include heated seats, a specially engineered Android and

Apple Carplay­compatible audio system, and USB/USB ­ C charging points. Even the rear­seat cushion bolsters have been subtly reduced to increase legroom without compromising comfort or support. The driver also benefits from upgraded controls barely imagined in the 1960s, including parking cameras linked to a full colour, six ­ inch display screen in the dashboard

plus cruise control and an electronic parking brake.

As well as representing a highly modern expression of one of the most iconic silhouettes in motoring history, this exceptional motor car marks the public confirmation of the Lunaz Hotel Programme.

Under this service, several hotel operators around the world have already commissioned Lunaz to elevate classic models from

Prices for motor cars within the Lunaz Hotel Programme begin at £550,000 excluding local taxes.

1902

When the world’s first speeding ticket was issued.

SILVER CLOUD II: Every surface inside and out has been modernised.

How to spot active DGT speed cameras

IS your foot a little too heavy on the pedal? Speeding is the most common offence on Spanish roads, according to data from the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT).

As of today, the agency, headed by Pere Navarro, has deployed 2,082 radars across Spain: 1,324 mobile, 666 fixed, and 92 section radars. They’ve also recently acquired 150 new devices to ramp up surveillance, wrote a news source.

The Illusion Of Fixed Radars Fixed radars are the vertical, rectangular boxes situated to the right of the roads they monitor. Often, these boxes are empty and merely serve as a deterrent. The DGT is in the process of updating these units, but many drivers still slam on the brakes when they see the warning sign for a radar ahead. This action is not only dangerous, but also incurs a €200 fine.

Article 53 of the General Traffic Regulations states, ‘ex­

cept in cases of imminent danger, every driver, in order to reduce the speed of his vehicle, must ensure that he can do so without risk to other drivers and will be obliged to warn him beforehand, without being able to do it abruptly, so that he does not produce a risk of collision with the vehicles that circulate behind him.'

Gantry Radars: The Tell­tale Sign

When travelling at speed it’s almost impossible to tell if the roadside box contains a camera or not. However, for gantry

radars, which are positioned on overhead structures in the middle of the road, spotting an active unit is easier. Just look for a side ladder. If one is present, it’s highly likely that the radar is active, as the ladder allows operators to perform necessary maintenance.

In summary, there are ways to identify if a DGT radar is active. However, the wisest course of action is to always maintain a safe speed, ensuring you’re not caught out and, more importantly, that you’re driving safely.

FIXED RADARS: Often these boxes are empty.

Rome’s Ryder Cup clubhouse in flames Messi to leave Inter Miami

LESS than a week on from Europe’s iconic Ryder Cup victory, the Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Rome was engulfed in flames.

Team Europe managed to keep up a very impressive record on home soil which has seen them go unbeaten for over 30 years now, and they were largely helped by a dominating first day in the foursomes and four ­ ball games.

However, that now appears to be nothing more than a distant memory for the people associated with and working at the Marco Simone Golf and Country Club as they witnessed it go up in flames at a rapid speed.

There was widespread panic around the golf clubhouse in Rome when it was alight and sent smoke and flames swirling up into the sky on Thursday 6, October, which will leave a bitter taste in the mouths of people who had been at the course just a few days before that.

According to reports, the Italian fire brigade managed to control the blaze and had it totally under control, however, there will of course need to be a full investigation as to what caused the fire to occur.

It’s believed that this blaze took place near the 18th green and pillars of smoke could indeed be seen from the city’s northeastern region of Guidonia and authorities even contemplated evacuating local residents.

However, reports claimed that nobody was

FORMER Barcelona superstar Li onel Messi is already lining up his next move when he departs Inter Miami in 2025, and it will be an emotional switch.

Messi has been lighting up the footballing world ever since he burst onto the scene with Barcelona having racked up seven Ballon d’Or awards and is widely regarded as one of, if not the best play er to have ever played football.

However, since leaving Barcelona he’s taken in a few years at Paris Saint ­ Germain where he failed to help them lift the Champions League and fol lowing the expiration of his contract this summer, he de cided to jet off to America and ply his trade in MLS.

It was a blistering start to life as an Inter Miami player for Messi who already has 11 goals and five assists to his name in just 12 appearances for the American outfit, but has recently been

ing six of their last seven matches including US Open Cup final.

Despite seemingly being settled and enjoying life in the MLS and living in Miami with the great weather and lifestyle that comes with it, the Argentinian is reportedly already clear on what he will do in 2025 when his contract expires.

According to a Spanish news source, Messi has no intention of signing a new contract with his current employers and will instead let his deal run out in the summer of 2025, allowing him to become a free agent.

Even though that is still just under two years away, Messi has his eyes on an emotional reunion with his former club Newell’s Old Boys, which were his very first professional club and where Barcelona scouted him.

This will indeed come as a major blow to Inter Miami fans and owner David Beckham, but also, for Barcelona and their fanbase who have long been praying and craving for a return of their legend and