Costa del Sol 21 – 27 Dec 2023 Issue 2007 by Euro Weekly News Media S.A.

NEW YEAR Costa del Sol • Issue No. 2007 • 21 - 27 December 2023

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La Cala Lions met with the Nuns from Ronda.

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Costa del Sol gentleman Sisters of From Front page

ned to learn of the passing of Paul. A good friend of the family since the 80s, Paul really was a Gentleman - kind, great company and considerate to a fault. I always looked Credit: Giles Brown Facebook

IT was with great sadness that many people in the Marbella area learned of the passing of popular long-time resident Paul Young aged 84 on December 15. TRE presenter Giles Brown posted a very moving tribute on his Facebook page which simply said “Deeply sadde-

Giles with Paul in the centre.

forward to seeing him. “A few years ago I was interviewing Timothy Spall at the @marbellafilmfestival and Paul called me. His villa had been used as the main location for ‘Auf Wiedersehen Pet’ and he wanted to know if I could get in touch with Tim. “I handed my phone over to Tim and they chatted for ON Sunday, December 17, the shores of Puerto Banus in Marbella witnessed a momentous occasion as the Children’s Choir from Uganda graced a yacht with their mesmerising performance. Thanks to the dedicated efforts and fundraising by HelpAfrica foundation, these children, who have never experienced Christmas before, found themselves in Marbella, sharing their talent and stories. Representing hope and education for underprivileged youngsters, the choir’s presence marked their first journey beyond Uganda’s

a couple of minutes. My deepest condolences to @laurengregory_pt and his many friends. You will be missed.” There were numerous comments about what a gentleman he was and how much he will be missed whilst his daughter Lauren Gregory posted her thanks to Giles for his tribute and on her Facebook page she said “Sleep

well my King, I’m utterly broken without you.” The funeral was held on Tuesday December 19 and rather than sending flowers, those who wanted to remember Paul were invited to make a donation to the British Liver Trust via the Just Giving website, https:// www.justgiving.com/page/ paulyoung.

Children’s choir borders. Their innocence and unparalleled musical talent moved all who attended, offering a glimpse into their lives through heartfelt songs. Grace, a member of the choir, delivered a touching performance of an original song, painting a vivid picture of their daily lives in Uganda. Their emotive rendition left a lasting impression, evoking deep emotions among the audience. The Jingle Joy Harmony of Hope Choir is set to perform again on December 22

at 3.00pm on Avd Del ‘Pilar, Urb Rincon el Pilar 57. Admission for this event is €15.00. For more details, visit info@ helpafrica.dk foundation, WhatsApp 602 407 288 , the organisation devoted to supporting these children. Notably, Nordic Water, Aloha College and other sponsors played a vital role in making this event possible. Their contributions underscore the collective commitment to providing these children with a platform to share their resilience and aspirations with the world. The Ugandan Children’s Choir, with their enchanting melodies and poignant performance, left an indelible mark, spreading the true essence of Christmas - joy, hope, and unity - and leaving an enduring impact on all fortunate enough to witness their harmonious debut in Marbella.

the Poor

LA CALA DE MIJAS Lions met with the ‘Hermanitas de los Pobres’ (The Sisters of the Poor), Nuns from Ronda, at the Mercadona Supermarket in La Cala for the annual Christmas purchase of food for the Nuns. Lions President, Brenda Meredith, fellow Lions and an interpreter were waiting to greet the Nuns and their driver, along with Maria Serrano, the manager of the La Cala de Mijas Mercadona. Taking just under an hour, five large trollies were groaning under the weight of the selected items. As the trollies were loaded, Mercadona staff were following behind restocking the shelves. The items were scanned through the checkout and Lions Treasurer, Gill Stubbs, handed over the requested amount. The goods were taken to the car park and packed into the Nun’s van and after thanks the Nuns made their way back to Ronda. This annual event is one of many that the Lions undertake each year in supporting charities throughout the area. For further information about the Lions and future events, visit LaCalaLions. org or their charity shops in Calle Torremolinos in La Cala. Tel: 637 185 533.

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NIBS EXTRA Arson inquiry

THE Guardia Civil is investigating five people for a forest fire that occurred last summer and caused damage to 95 per cent of the archaeological site from the fourth century BC of Cerro Colorao, located between Marbella and Benahavís. It has been listed as an Asset of Cultural Interest since 2009.

Stadium delay

CONSTRUCTION of the new football stadium in Marbella, which was to be ready in three months, has been delayed by at least a year and a half. Nothing is known about progress, nor about the demolition, which was scheduled to begin in September 2023.

More people

ESTEPONA, Marbella and Benalmadena lead the way in population growth in Spain. The three towns on the Costa del Sol are among the five with the highest increases in the country, according to the INE census update. In Malaga Province, 18 per cent of the total are citizens of foreign nationality.

Market dates

THE Christmas market located in the Plaza de la Constitución in Mijas Pueblo will remain open until December 30, from 11am to 7pm. Mijas Town Hall has decided to extend the date of this traditional market, which has a total of nine stalls, run by traders from Mijas.

Recipe Googled

ESPETO MALAGUEÑO has been named as the second most searched recipe worldwide, as reported in the Year in a Search report that Google publishes at the end of each year. Bernardo Quintero, director of security engineering at Google, said this is, “an impressive recognition for our local gastronomy”.

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“Spreading Christmas Cheer: A Heartfelt Message from Euro Weekly News Publishers” AS we gather around the festive table, exchanging stories and laughter, there is a warmth in our hearts that comes from knowing we are here together, celebrating another Christmas. It’s with immense gratitude that we, Michel and Steven, the publishers of Euro Weekly News, write our 25th Christmas message to our valued clients and loyal readers. Without your unwavering support, this journey wouldn’t have been possible. The past year has been quite a ride, hasn’t it? We’ve witnessed some incredible highs and navigated some extraordinary lows. Yet, here we stand, resilient and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving you, our cherished community. For us, serving you is not just a job; it’s a calling deeply ingrained in our DNA. Our mission has always been to shine a light on the good-hearted, selfless individuals who take care of the vulnerable, the needy, the aged, and even the abandoned pets and animals that often capture our hearts. Ours is a compassionate community - a community that cares. This, dear readers, is what makes the heart of the ‘People’s Paper’ beat. We see your passions, hear your struggles, and acknowledge your pain. Yet, we also see your unwavering spirit, your determination to move forward despite life’s challenges. In the face of adversity, you continue to march forward with hope in your hearts. This is the strength of our community. Living along the beautiful coastline offers a unique perspective on life. The sun, the sea, the culture that warmly embraces foreigners, and the peaceful coexistence of various religions all create an environment that feels like a perpetual vacation. It’s a place where the world can come together as one, a place where peace is a treasure we hold dear. In a world where global conflicts and uncertainties loom large, peace is the most precious gift one can hope for. To sleep peacefully at night, free from worry and fear, is a priceless gem. It’s a reminder of the value of peace in our lives, a value that often eludes us in these tumultuous times. This Christmas, while we may not be able to change the world’s suffering, we can certainly make a world

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YOUR EWN HAS

145 STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Blue Flag award

Michel and Steven Euesde

of difference within our own community. It’s the small acts of kindness that can brighten someone’s day and make the holiday season truly special. Imagine setting an extra place at your table for a neighbour spending Christmas alone. Think about local restaurants offering cancelled reservations to those in need of a warm meal and company. Consider extending a helping hand to a single parent down the road, offering them a brief respite by babysitting for an hour. Even having a cup of tea with an elderly parent, so their caregiver can have a moment of relaxation, can be an extraordinary gesture of kindness. The beauty of these acts lies in their simplicity. Time, after all, is the most precious gift we can offer. If each of us contributes a little piece of peace to our community, it will undoubtedly be a joyous Christmas for all. It’s crucial to remember that not everyone has a bustling family gathering to attend, and not everyone’s heart is overflowing with holiday

cheer. Let’s strive to understand this and be the bearers of warmth and kindness to all we encounter. While we may not be able to change the entire world, we can certainly make our world a better place. This holiday season, let us come together as a community to spread the spirit of Christmas - a spirit of love, compassion, and peace. Remember, a smile can be the greatest gift we give to one another. By doing so, we can make a world of diﬀerence to those around us. In conclusion, as we celebrate this Christmas, let us embrace the true essence of the season: giving, sharing, and caring. Let us be the light in someone’s darkness, the warmth in someone’s heart, and the hope in someone’s soul.

Warmest wishes for a heartwarming and peaceful Christmas, Michel and Steven

MIJAS has renewed its Blue Flag - Blue Path distinction, awarded each year by the Association for Environmental and Consumer Education (ADEAC). The prestigious award values the commitment of municipalities and administrations to recover and conserve paths and itineraries that promote environmental education and the sustainable enjoyment of our surroundings. The Mijas coastal path has held this distinction since 2016 and to obtain it a set of criteria must be met, which are grouped into four categories: characteristics of the paths and routes; information, signage and infrastructures on the paths; conservation and management of the natural and cultural heritage; and public use of the paths. Blue Flag paths began in 2011 as a pilot programme for 12 educational coastal paths which linked beaches awarded with the Blue Flag. Over the last decade, it has been supported by the Biodiversity Foundation of the Ministry for Ecological Transition. Spain currently has 128 footpaths spread over 115 municipalities, totalling 858.61km. In the province of Malaga, only two municipalities have the Blue Trail Flag: Mijas and Nerja.

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ON Thursday, December 14, La Sala Restaurant in Puerto Banus was ﬁlled with over 100 people, all enjoying merriment and fun, but with one very special cause in mind. Triple A is an animal shelter in Marbella on the Costa del Sol, who rescue, care, and aid in the adoption of abandoned animals. They held their Christmas Luncheon on Thursday and were sold out days before the event, as many anticipated this festive and charitable occasion. There to welcome guests with open arms was none other than the renowned generous soul, Lily van Tongeren. Lily set the tone for the ‘Christmas spirit’, looking

Triple A Christmas Luncheon lovely in a fabulous festive dress, with matching bauble earrings of course! As everyone entered and took their seats, they found a Christmas cracker and special gift bag waiting for them on the table, as the ‘free ﬂowing’ wine, beer and cava began to be poured! Lily told Euro Weekly News that it was “the most people we have ever had at the event,” explaining that “people were begging me for a space even this morning, I did manage to squeeze a few extra in!” She laughed. Lily van Tongeren has been

a volunteer at Triple A for 15 years, and served as the Vice President for two years, something she told us she would not have been able to achieve without the unwavering support of her husband. This will be her last event with the organisation. “It’s unfortunate, but I know I’ve done something great, and what it has given me, the unconditional love of all these animals, that is everything.” EWN also spoke to Kelly-Louise, former social media manager at Triple A, and Tess, the former dog trainer. They explained that they

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

“A bird cannot fly on one wing.” Of American-English origin. This is used to justify taking another alcoholic drink.

would also be “finding other ways to help animals” and that they felt proud of what they had all achieved during their time at the charity. “Loyalty is priceless though,” they concluded. With everyone in good spirits, and an air of Christmas cheer filling the room, live performer GillySax took to the stage in a wicked two piece! She sang some cracking classics and walked round the tables as many joined in, even the waiter got his groove on at one point! Guests showed their generosity, buying plenty of tickets for the raffle, which offered some fantastic prizes. In total, the event raised an incredible €4,100 for the animals in need, who will now surely have a very merry Christmas. Lily van Tongeren will surely be missed, but

Any dog’s dream team! Kelly-Louise, Tess and Lily.

a and onia, Lind Guests, S dog. Freyja the

hasn’t she gone out with a bang! Like many others who were present at the lunch, Lily’s life is devoted to helping the animals who need her, and together, they will continue to make a diﬀerence.

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All the lonely people

VAL WILLIAMS: Have fun as life is for living and loving.

pay up front, no board members; people can come and go as they please. The group has increased in size and now has in the region of 2,000 followers. The aim now is to help everyone and anyone with loneliness. Many elderly people moved out here to Spain and have lost their partner, miss their family and cannot afford to go back to the UK. The group is keen to lend them

a helping hand in banishing loneliness. Loneliness can leave people feeling isolated and disconnected from others. It is a complex state of mind that can be caused by life changes, mental health conditions, poor self-esteem, and personality traits. Loneliness can also have serious health consequences including decreased mental wellness and physical problems.

With the weather here so good all the year-round, people have the opportunity to get out and about and to join in various activities. So, if you have not already joined Simply Thriving group on Facebook please do so and join them. They have lots of fun and little time to feel lonely. Christmas is a particular time when people really feel lonely and if this affects you, please get in touch, they are there to help and make life more enjoyable. Contact Val on 951 313 257 or check out the Facebook page for more details Since the beginning of this group Val is much more committed to living in the moment, appreciating what she has and looking forward to so much fun with friends. Simply Thriving has events coming up including a cruise with 21 members in January and a birthday party which will be a tribute to Elvis Presley on February 22. Join them and have fun as life is for living and loving.

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Three Kings for a Day SAN PEDRO ALCANTARA will celebrate the ‘Three Kings for a Day’ initiative to encourage shopping in local shops with a raffle on January 2 for all participants. The event is with the collaboration of the Sampedra Mayor’s Office, Apymespa and Tus Tiendas Amigas and, to join in, it is necessary to deposit your details in the red mailboxes of the participating shops after making purchases in them. The raffle will be broadcast live on the afternoon programme of Radio Televisión Marbella on January 2 with a 1st prize of €500, a 2nd prize of €200, a 3rd prize of €150 and a 4th prize of €100. In addition, there will be gifts such as hotel vouchers and the UD San Pedro season ticket. Photo: Flickr CC / Bulevar San Pedro Alcántara

AS the pandemic hit hard in 2020, Val Williams as President of Friends of the Theatre at Salon Varietes in Fuengirola, was seriously concerned that many members had been left high and dry since most were elderly and often lonely. On top of that she saw the emptiness of all the bars, restaurants, businesses, the entertainers with no one to entertain and so she set up Simply Surviving to help out. It was free to join and initially, just a Facebook site. Whenever it was possible, they would go along in a group for a meal at a restaurant, and from time to time organise events and raise money for local struggling charities. In one year and with sponsorship from Blevin Franks, Ibex, a funeral company and publicity from Michel and Steven of Euro Weekly they were able to donate around €45,000 for various charities. The name was changed after the pandemic to Simply Thriving and became just a social group. Simply Thriving is just a simple group, no complications, no money to

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SAN PEDRO: Encouraging shopping in local shops.

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euroweeklynews.com II MARBELLA NEWS

LEZ signs go up

AS we near the end of the year, Marbella Town Hall has started erecting the signs that delimit the Low Emission Zones (LEZ) and that will affect, for the moment at least, the historic centres of both Marbella and San Pedro Alcantara. These are provisional measures pending a definitive study, so there will be no fines levied (yet). The signs mark the streets in the central areas of Marbella and San Pedro Alcantara, as decided in October. The upper part of the signage includes a reference to compliance with data protection regulations in the event of possible video camera surveillance. In the lower part, in the case of the entrance sign, it details the types of vehicles that can access. The LEZ area is conditional on a study of air quality to be carried out in 2024. As a result, during this initial period, (the duration of which

Photo: Flickr CC

NEW SIGNS: Marking the central streets of Marbella.

has not been defined), there will be no sanctions and drivers who do not comply will only be warned. The European Union approved the creation of low emission zones to reduce particulate pollutants in order to improve public health. The deadline set to

adapt to the regulation was December 31, so Marbella Council is just on time. The government team is reluctantly complying because they consider that the air quality in the municipality is good and they believe that it is not necessary to create these zones.

Christmas parcels

MARBELLA Town Hall, together with the charitable organisation DYA, will deliver a total of 40 Christmas parcels to elderly people in vulnerable situations in the municipality. Mayor, Ángeles Muñoz, visited the association’s warehouse in the San Pedro Alcantara industrial estate and said that, “we remain committed to ensuring that no one is left behind, as we did during the pandemic and as we will continue to do. “This is possible thanks to the great work of DYA and Marbella Voluntaria, who will distribute the gifts.” The mayor added, “it is essential to continue helping the people who are having the hardest time financially or who are alone and at risk of isolation.”

WITH the support of Marbella Town Hall, water and sanitation company Hidralia has delivered 180 toys to three local charity organisations: Virgen del Cisne de Ecuador and Crece and Caritas La Encarnación. The toys are classified by age range to suit the needs of the children. Thus, children from zero to three years old will receive cuddly toys; from four to six, fishing games; for those aged seven to nine, memory games; and from 10 to 13, games of skill. Manager of Hidralia, Juan Antonaya, thanked the council for its help and is confident that this donation will help the most disadvantaged people in the mu-

Muñoz also announced that DYA will be helping almost 300 families in the city during the festive season. “This is a social resource for immediate action that we set up for emergency benefits,” Muñoz said, explaining that the funds allocated for this programme amount to €180,000. Both the manager of DYA, Paqui Muñoz, and the president of Marbella Voluntaria, Meli Bertomeu, thanked the town hall for the deliveries, which include essential items from the daily shopping basket and also specific food for the Christmas holidays. “Not only is it good for the elderly to receive the parcels, but they also feel valued and that they are remembered,” they said.

Toys for the children nicipality to celebrate Christmas in the best possible way by providing toys for the little ones. “With this initiative we are doing our bit to leave no one behind, especially at such a special time of year, which should be a time of happiness for everyone,” he said. Mari Luz Martínez, president of Crece, said, “it is very gratifying to see the excitement of the children when they receive their presents” and María del Carmen Prado, head of Cáritas La Encarnación, expressed her gratitude for this gesture of charity.

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Santa’s Brunch at Olivia’s La Cala IT is just over a week before Santa Claus really does come to town. However, he made a special visit to Olivia’s in La Cala today, at their Santa’s Brunch. On Saturday December 16, Olivia’s in La Cala looked more like Santa’s grotto than a beachfront restaurant, as it was donned with decorations, and had a giant elf running around playing games with all the children! Not to mention the attendance of Mr Claus himself, who caused quite a stir with the younger customers as they ran to greet him and tell him what they wanted for Christmas! On arrival, guests were seated at tables that were festively decorated and presented an information leaflet about the ‘Cudeca Foundation’, a local charity that collaborated with Olivia’s for the event. A giant elf, who explained to Euro Weekly News that she was “Buddy the elf’s sister”, then came and began to play some fantastically fun games with all the children. After several rounds of Christmas ca-

The table setting.

Little guest Remi Miller meeting Santa Claus and his favourite elf, Buddy the elf’s sister!

Christmas games with the giant elf!

rrot races, snowball parachute and candy cane eating, Santa Claus finally arrived and listened to all the little one’s wishes before presenting them with a goody bag (or two)! As the adults relaxed and enjoyed many delicious brunch dishes, the children happily ate their festive treats and took turns dancing on the dance floor, where disco lights set the party mood alight! Marketing Manager at Olivia’s, Julie, told EWN that the company has “many more community events such as this one planned for the near future.” A brilliant time was had by all, with a day that will surely be a magical memory for all the children who were in attendance.

A LTTLE KINDNESS UNLESS you have been living under a rock or chosen the life of a hermit you will know that world events can feel we are out of control. We need to take a step back and remind ourselves of the profound effect simple acts of kindness can have on the lives around us. A smile, a helping hand, a kind word or time to listen to another’s troubles - because they are important to them - all these simple acts have the power to create a ripple effect that can make a significant difference to the lives of others. If we are treated with kindness it is more likely that we in turn will treat others the same way. Being able to help another person doesn’t have to require grand gestures. It is the small everyday actions that can mean the most. All too often our differences are emphasised, but acts of kindness remind us of our shared humanity and the importance of treating each other with respect and compassion. Age Concern Marbella - San Pedro have been at the hub of our community for the past sixyears. It is built on fun and friendship and kindness and compassion. If you NEED us or would like to HELP us please call or WhatsApp our Helpline on 689 255 198 weekdays from 10 to 6.00pm. Our amazing volunteers are also taking a holiday break over the Christmas period. The Social centre will be closed BUT our Helpline will still be open (excluding Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day and Three Kings’ Day). Happy Christmas from all of us in the Age Concern Marbella - San Pedro family and a very Happy and Healthy New Year.

LOCAL NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

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Airbnb regulated

THE Andalucian Regional Government is finalising the processing of the decree that will regulate tourist accommodation (viviendas de uso turistico or VUT) and which will likely be approved in January, according to the Regional Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Sports. The decree is intended to bring order to the chaotic situation of short term rentals that is straining the housing market in areas all along the Costa del Sol. Both hoteliers and residents of town centres are awaiting this regulation after years of failed attempts by the administrations to address the complex issue. According to the latest report published by the company Exceltur, the increase in tourist pressure experienced by Spanish towns and cities in the last decade comes most-

Come and enjoy our new cafeteria which is open for visitors

Photo: Shutterstock / AlesiaKan

TOURIST LETS: Rentals are to be restricted.

ly from the “rampant and uncontrolled” growth of housing for tourist use. In the absence of a specific regulation, some residents’ associations have been using existing legal tools to try to stop the explosion of private tourist rentals in urbanisations which has led, in some cases, to serious neighbour disputes and caused problems of coe-

xistence. The regulation that is about to be approved by the Junta is looking at: declaring ‘saturated areas’ and establishing specific mandatory conditions for all tourist accommodation, including: having a minimum surface area, a maximum number of tenants and even installing a noise level meter.

10 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023

Presentation of the donation by Jan and Roger Humpidge.

Wedding Anniversary celebration due to the pandemic and decided to invite guests earlier this year to a fancy dress party with each being asked to make a donation to the charity and this was the result. As guests tucked into a three-course meal, there was musical entertainment from Karen and the Dell Choir, Nathan Dean with a special guest appea-

rance Brian Piccolo with such popular songs that several guests got up and danced. Following this, TRE presenter Giles Brown auctioned off three bulging Christmas Hampers, one from Hogan Stand, one from Euro Weekly News and one from an individual supporter who had won it in a raffle. At the end of the day, in

addition to the gift from the Humpidges, the money from the auction and a raffle saw a further €1,572 raised. All in all a very pleasant afternoon for all who attended Visit https://ageconcern marbella.com/ to find out more about the benefits offered to local elderly residents or how you can help as a volunteer.

The Great Ice Rink opening! ON Tuesday December 19 The Great Ice Rink in Los Boliches opened to the public, just in time for some family festive fun during the Christmas period. Many children and adults alike have already enjoyed this exciting activity, with a decadent Christmas tree serving as a magical backdrop. The ice rink is located in Plaza Pedro Cuevas Martin and currently it has been announced that it will be open from this date until January 1, but may stay longer. The opening times are as follows: December 20 to December 23: 11am to 2pm and 4.30pm to 8.30pm December 24: 11am to 3pm December 25 4.30pm to 8.30pm December 26 to December 30: 11am to 2pm and 4.30pm to 8.30pm December 31: 11am to 3pm January 1: 4.30pm to 8.30pm It is free for all to enter and skate, providing a perfect excuse to enjoy a winter’s day out with family and friends, perhaps even paired with the traditional churros and hot chocolate to stay warm! Credit: Shutterstock/1193256073

Age Concern lunch Credit: Age Concern Marbella

AN impressive 97 people filled the Hogan Stand restaurant in San Pedro Alcantara for the annual Age Concern Marbella and San Pedro Christmas Party. President Carol Woolnoth spoke to the guests about the activities of the group and explained that each town group is separate from all others and in the case of this group there is a committee of eight and at least two people have to approve any expenditure. Running as it does, its own Social and Activity Centre, it was considered prudent to consider purchasing a defibrillator and two local businesses have kindly agreed to pay 50 per cent each so that this could be obtained. What happened next was a very welcome surprise as local couple Jan and Roger Humpidge, nattily dressed in Christmas jumpers came on stage and presented Age Concern with a donation of €1,120. They had been forced to postpone their Golden

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Get your skates on!

ADVERTISING FEATURE

12 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023

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HAVE you ever pondered the symbolic meaning behind your currency? The European Central Bank (ECB) is embarking on a transformative journey for the design of euro banknotes. This pivotal change, expected to be implemented in 2026, deviates from the traditional windows and bridges motif that has defined the euro since its inception in 2002. ECB President Christine Lagarde stressed that the primary objective is to resonate more deeply with Europeans of varied ages and backgrounds. This decision was influenced by a public consultation earlier this year where other concepts, such as the representation of hands and abstract themes like ‘our Europe, ourselves’, were not pursued due to lukewarm responses in the summer surveys. Interestingly, the ECB avoided conventional choices like famous landmarks or historical figures, likely to prevent controversies among the euro zone’s 20 member states. The final designs, once refined, will be subjected to the European public’s opinion once more. However, the new notes won’t enter circulation for several years after 2026. As digital payments soar, partly acceleTHE European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has sounded the alarm, urging European Union (EU) member states to brace themselves for a potential surge in respiratory virus cases. Recently, the ECDC highlighted the contrasting situation across Europe. While the Carlos III Health Institute reported lower incidence rates of mild and severe acute respi-

Credit: Wolfilser/Shutterstock.com

New look notes NEW DESIGN: Euro bank notes.

rated by the pandemic, the use of cash is in decline. It currently accounts for just 59 per cent of transactions at physical points of sale, a stark contrast to the 79 per cent in 2016. In response, the European Commission introduced legislation in June to protect cash as legal tender, simultaneously proposing a digital euro to balance traditional and modern payment methods. This redesign is not merely aesthetic; it coincides with evolving payment practices and harmonising tradition with technological advancements. The Euro currency introduction in January 2002 was a landmark event in European history and has not seen any major design changes since.

Is Europe ready

ratory infections compared to the previous season, the ECDC Director Andrea Ammon said, “In recent weeks, we have seen signs that community transmission of respiratory viruses has increased, typical of the winter season.” The predominant virus currently is SARS-CoV-2, alongside the respiratory syncytial

virus (RSV), seasonal flu, and other viruses showing a rising trend. Notably, severe illness related to SARS-CoV-2 primarily affects those over 65 years of age, with increased RSV activity leading to a spike in hospital admissions, especially in young children. The ECDC’s response plan includes enhancing vaccination campaigns and preparing health systems to potentially expand emergency and ICU capacities. In addition, the use of masks in crowded public spaces is advised, especially for individuals at high risk of serious illness. The ECDC also recommends using its ‘5 Cs’ diagnostic model for vaccination - Trust, Complacency, Constraints, Collective Responsibility, and Calculation - to effectively promote vaccine acceptance. Prioritising vaccinations for the most vulnerable against SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and RSV is crucial to prevent serious illness. Furthermore, healthcare workers must be adequately trained in infection prevention and control measures to reduce the burden on healthcare facilities.

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Young Spanish imperial Eagle.

restry have played a pivotal role in this growth. Despite this success, the species still faces significant threats. Between 2000 and 2022, 197 incidents were recorded, with electrocution in power lines being the main cause of death, accounting for 55.4 per cent of known accidents. The bird’s predominantly dark brown plumage, with

distinctive white feathers on the upper wings, is a sight to behold. Juveniles display a mix of brown and reddish tones, which change to straw yellow in their second year and gradually darken to adult colouration by the time they reach five. Their habitats are as varied as their plumage, spanning from mountainous pine forests to coastal marshlands. They do not migrate, defending a hunting and breeding territory of about 2,000 hectares. The Iberian Imperial Eagle’s journey from the brink of extinction to a thriving population, highlights the impact of conservation efforts. However, this majestic bird, , will continue to require close attention and care to ensure its future prosperity.

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Seasons strikes THE possibility of disruptions facing airline passengers is on the horizon as unions UGT and CCOO have declared an eight-day strike at Iberia over the Christmas period. On December 29, 30, and 31, as well as January 1, 4, 5, 6, and 7, Iberia employees will strike due to the company’s refusal to establish auto-handling services. These dates were confirmed after several meetings with Iberia and its parent company IAG, which also includes British Airways, Vueling, Aer Lingus, and Level, writes a national news outlet. The unions demand the creation of an autohandling system to service IAG’s group airlines. They claim these requests have been repeatedly ignored, leading to the strike’s announcement. Iberia have expressed ‘enormous disappointment’, and labelled the strike ‘irresponsible’. The company asserts it has continually engaged with union representatives since the Aena handling tender result on September 26. Iberia warns that the strike will significantly disrupt holiday travel, and impact family reunions and vacation plans. It views the strike as harmful and unnecessary, particularly during this peak travel season. Following Aena’s tender decision, Iberia lost its license to provide third-party services at several key airports, including Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Malaga, Alicante, Gran

XX Credit: EQRoy/Shutterstock.com

Soaring figures Credit: Jesus Giraldo Gutierrez/shutterstock.com

ONE of Spain’s most iconic birds, the Iberian Imperial Eagle, once teetering on the brink of extinction, has made a remarkable comeback. In 2022, this majestic bird, unique to the Iberian Peninsula, reached a milestone. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, its population grew by about 30 per cent since 2019, with 130 pairs now thriving, as reported by the Junta de Castilla y Leon, according to El Español. The resurgence for the Iberian Imperial Eagle began with the implementation of its Recovery Plan in 2003. From a precarious count of 16 pairs between 1997 and 1999, the eagle population has steadily increased, surpassing 100 pairs by 2019. This growth is directly attributed to conservation actions. Measures such as modifying power lines and promoting sustainable fo-

21 - 27 December 2023

Grounded Iberia aircraft.

Canaria, Tenerife South, Ibiza and Bilbao. However, it did retain its license for Madrid. Iberia has since pursued legal action to overturn the tender result and has been in talks with unions to mitigate the impact on its workforce. The airline reassures its workforce that their rights will remain intact under the V Convention of the ground handling sector. Yet, it argues that implementing auto-handling would damage IAG’s competitiveness and lead to a financial downturn. Iberia clarifies it has never engaged in auto-handling at these airports, preferring to outsource these services. The strike, therefore, raises significant concerns about future operations and the airline’s competitive standing in the industry.

14 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023

Full support

Schengen Area, The Netherlands’ reversal could help warm Vienna to the idea. Both Van der Burg and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte have objected to Bulgaria’s admission in the past due to technical reasons, namely issues with corruption and

rule of law. However, after a “fact-finding” mission in Bulgaria conducted by the European Commission returned positive results, both Rutte and Van der Burg reversed their positions. The European Commission had long supported Bulgaria’s Schengen ascendance, though The Netherlands continued to object, requesting additional data. The fact-finding mission, however, came back without shortcomings. Of the 27 EU member states, only Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus, and Ireland remain outside the Schengen Area, a border-free zone where passport controls have been abolished. Ireland has opted out, while Romania is in the process of becoming a Schengen member. Croatia, the newest Schengen member, joined in January 2023. While still objecting to Bulgaria’s admission to the Schengen Area due to immigration concerns, Austria’s Interior Minister Gerhard Karner said last week that he’d be willing to ease air travel restrictions.

One to watch

FAMILIES schedule their Christmas day in their own unique ways, from gift-opening rituals to festive feasts, each household has its unique traditions. Whichever way people choose to celebrate Christmas, the odds are that at some point many families will settle down in front of the television to watch their favourite Christmas movie. In a recent survey from the UK electrical retailer Currys , UK residents shared their most cherished Christmas tv moments and the steadfast traditions they adhere to. The top 10 Christmas films include in the number one spot Home Alone, followed closely by ELF and the Grinch, in third and fourth are A Christmas Carol and The Polar Express. The latter films on the list included Miracle on 34th Street, The Snowman, Love Actually, The San-

Credit: Roman Samborskyi/Shutterstock.com

IN a letter to Dutch parliament on Friday December 16, State Secretary of Justice and Security Eric van der Burg expressed support for Bulgaria’s admission into the Schengen Area for the first time, reversing The Netherlands’ longstanding position that the Eastern European country was not ready. Though Austria still opposes Bulgaria’s admission into the

euroweeklynews.com II NEWS

Christmas movies.

ta Claus Movie, with Die Hard in tenth position. Interestingly, the perennial debate around ‘Die Hard’ being a Christmas film might be nearing a conclusion, as it secures a spot in the top ten list. Notably, one in ten participants rank it as their preferred festive movie. Classic films It´s A Wonderful Life and White Christmas finished in twelfth and thirteenth position. These film preferences

offer a glimpse into the UK’s Christmas culture, showcasing a blend of humour, nostalgia, and a touch of unconventional choices. It’s a testament to how cinematic experiences can unite people in shared joy and celebration during this special time of the year. Christmas is not just about the gifts or the food, but also about the shared experiences and traditions that bind families and friends together.

16 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023 GET ready to cosy up this holiday season because Netflix’s latest Christmas film, ‘Christmas As Usual,’ is here to sprinkle some multicultural magic into your festive binge-watch list! Released on December 6, this heartwarming romcom is a delightful blend of Norwegian traditions and Indian flair.

euroweeklynews.com II NEWS

From Norway with love Meet Thea, a spirited Norwegian girl, and her boyfriend, Jashan, hailing from the vibrant cultural landscape of India. Their plan? A festive trip to Norway to celebrate Christmas with Thea’s family. But hold onto your jingle bells - this isn’t your average meet-the-fami-

ly flick. Directed by Petter Holmsen, inspired by his sister’s true love story with her Indian husband, the film captures the essence of a multicultural Christmas tale. As Thea’s family gets acquainted with Jashan, hilariously awkward encounters ensue. The movie spices up the holiday cheer by diving into the clash of cultures. Unlike traditional Christmas romances, ‘Christmas As Usual’ skips the clichés. Instead, it unravels the complexities of family dynamics and cultural differences, adding depth to the storyline. While subtle hints of discrimination surface, they serve to underline the cultural contrasts, rather than overshadowing the festive spirit. The film is a rollercoaster of emotions, with each scene painting a vivid picture of two worlds colliding and eventually merging, all set against the stunning backdrop of snowy Norway during the most wonderful time of the year.

Top of the pops COME December it’s time for radio station NPO Radio 2’s poll where listeners vote for their favourite records. This year is the 25th time that the Top 2000 has been held, attracting - as it does each year - hundreds of thousands more listeners. And it is the 20th time that Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody has occupied the top spot. Only the Eagles’ (twice with Hotel California), John Lennon (Imagine), Boudewijn de Groot (Avond) and Roller Coaster (Danny Vera) have ever managed to oust Queen from their habitual first place. “Different generations listen together and it has almost become cultural heritage,” radio DJ and journalist Arjan Snijders told the Netherlands media. “As long as we listen to the radio, the Top 2000 will be with us.” Another radio expert, Uunco Cerfontaine, claimed that radio was in any case a more inclusive product than streaming services like Spo-

Photo credit: CC/Billboard November 1977

QUEEN: Their Bohemian Rhapsody regularly tops NPO Radio’s Top 2000.

tify. “It is a kind of end-of-year tradition,” he said. “You finish off the year with the Top 2000. It’s about hearing all those classic songs again.” The public can also manoeuvre a song into the list for the first time, as happened this year with Herman Berkien’s Utereg me stadje (My town Utrecht) because Joop de Jager, who missed hearing a Utrecht dialect, launched a campaign in its

favour. In 2021, Procol Harum’s A Whiter Shade of Pale occupied a prominent place in the rankings because it was one of murdered television journalist Peter Rudolf de Vries’s favourite songs. Occasionally the voting has been skewed, like the time when a former radio chief refused to allow Ede Staal’s, It’s never been so dark in the west, to top the list.

18 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023

euroweeklynews.com

NEWSDESK

NEWS ACROSS THE REGIONS FROM THE PEOPLE'S PAPER SANTA’S SHIPMATES

SANTA spread joy among the shipmates of the Royal Naval Association Torrevieja Branch (RNATB) during their recent annual Christmas Dinner & Dance. The festive atmosphere be gan with a Cava reception fea turing the Melody Makers who delighted nearly 50 ship mates and guests with a splendid rendition of carols and raised €58.83 for their designated charity, Age Con cern. Santa made a grand en trance, leaving his reindeer outside but bringing in two of his elves to distribute individ ual presents to the ladies and the dining tables were named after Santa’s reindeer. After Santa’s departure, guests en joyed a delicious meal. The shipmates, representing a diverse mix of military back grounds and nationalities, cel ebrated in traditional naval style with a toast of port. Special guests included a Lieutenant Submariner from the Spanish Navy, also known as ‘Elf Smiley’, and an exRN helicopter engineer, ‘Elf Hap py’, both assisting Santa with the gift distribution.

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

GIVING4GIVING

IN its ongoing commitment to support Costa Blanca charities, Giving4Giving made a signifi cant impact in December. Eight different charities were fortunate to receive €1,000 each, amounting to a total of €8,000 in donations. This latest contribution brings the overall sum donated by Giving4Giving to an impres sive €300,000. The diverse range of charities benefitting from Giving4Giv ing’s generosity this month in cludes Finestrat Social Ser vices, Project4All, Red Cross Altea, Rainbow Animal Charity, Caritas Bees Benidorm, Alfaz Social Services, and, last but not least, the Men’s Shelter Gandia. Through these substantial contributions, Giving4Giving continues to make a positive difference in communities across the Costa Blanca. Giving4Giving has shops and warehouses located in La Nu cia, Altea, Villajoyosa, Albir and Benidorm. For more information on the charity, head to the website: giving4giving.com or call (+34) 603 137 697.

AXARQUIA

GIFTS GALORE

Image: Giving4Giving

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

GIVING4GIVING: Eight charities have benefited throughout December.

DOROTHY ALLEN, a compas sionate resident, recently initi ated a heartwarming gesture in Nerja. Moved by the spirit of giving during the holiday season, she rallied her friends and neighbours to contribute to the Children of Nerja Food Bank. Her appeal was met with an overwhelming re sponse, resulting in an im pressive collection of over 60 thoughtfully wrapped and la belled gifts. Monday, December 18 marked a special occasion as Dorothy delivered this gener ous assortment to the Food Bank. Each present was meticulously prepared, with labels specifying the child’s age and gender, ensuring a personalised touch for every child. The staff at the Food Bank were elated, expressing their gratitude with heartfelt hugs. Among the delighted faces was Benito, the hardworking manager of the Food Bank in Nerja, who was visibly moved by the outpouring of generos ity. Dorothy, standing along side Benito and his dedicated team, exemplified the true spirit of giving, bringing joy and warmth to the hearts of the needy children in the community.

COSTA CALIDA

COSTA ALMERIA

MALLORCA

ON a crisp winter’s evening on December 17 in Murcia City, the Jardín de Malecón opened its doors to thousands of visi tors. This park has been converted into a winter wonderland with over 12,000 metres of sparkling fairy lights, holograms, and about 50 illuminated structures or statues. The ‘Jardin de los Sueños’ (garden of dreams) was inaugurat ed by Murcia City’s mayor Jose Ballesta and will remain open until January 4. It has been described as a ‘unique show’ and a completely immersive visual and sensory experience. Visitors can look forward to more than just beautiful twin kling lights and statues; firework shows and acrobats are per forming throughout the park to keep everyone entertained. Throughout Christmas visitors can visit this free attraction from 6pm until 10pm every day. Visitors can also enjoy a ‘mag ic hour’ from 6.30pm until 7.30pm every evening except on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve when mysterious creatures appear throughout the garden of dreams.

ONE Almeria hospital has introduced a new project, ‘your pet with you’. The Humanisation Commission of the Poniente University Hos pital have created this new approach, that aims to make it easier for patients who have been admitted and are at the end of their lives. With ‘your pet with you’, these people will now have the opportunity to say a final goodbye to their beloved animals. The project has been promoted in collaboration with the Offi cial College of Veterinarians of Almeria. The managing director of the center, Pedro Acosta, said that, “there have been several pa tients admitted who have asked the staff about the possibility of saying goodbye to their pet, with whom they maintain a strong emotional bond.” After many similar requests, a decision was made that some thing should be done about this lack of closure, suffered by both owner and animal. The service applies to personal pets that have lived with the patient.

WITH a population fast approaching one million residents, the population of Mallorca just continues to grow according to the National Statistics Institute (INE). Recently released figures show that the number of people res ident in Mallorca on January 1, 2023 has grown by 25,000 but as there were more deaths than births, the growth is explained by foreign incomers. In fact the total percentage of foreign born res idents in Mallorca now totals 26 per cent of the population al though some towns have much larger foreign numbers and oth ers much smaller. Palma, the largest residential centre by far has a total popula tion of 430,640 and the number of foreigners just beats the aver age at 27.6 per cent and the overall growth in one year is 14,700. Most popular with foreign settlers and breaking the 30 per cent barrier are Santanyi 30.7 per cent, Andratx 33.3 per cent, Al cudia 34.8 per cent Calvia with 37.8 per cent and Deia with 37.9 per cent.

GARDEN OF DREAMS

PATIENTS WITH PETS

LOVING MALLORCA

+34 951 386 161 • www.euroweeklynews.com

20 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023

NORWAY Well-travelled AN EXTREMELY rare gold coin probably minted between 977 and 1025 was found recently by a detectorist in Vestre Slidre. It possibly belonged to Harald Hardrada, the King who ruled Norway from 1046 to 1066 but previously served as a guard for the Byzantine empire in Constantinople (present-day Istanbul).

Tougher line NORWAY’S Labour Inspectorate emphasised that changes to the Harassment in the Workplace Law will make clear that it also covers sexual harassment. Although this is already illegal, the inspectorate wants the revised wording to ensure that stricter preventative measures are introduced in all workplace environments.

SWEDEN

euroweeklynews.com II EUROPEAN PRESS

EUROPRESS BELGIUM Papal visit Speaking to a Mexican broadcaster on December 12, Pope Francis announced that he intends to visit Belgium in September 2024, surprising commentators as he usually prefers countries further afield. They added that the visit was probably arranged last September when he recieved King Philippe and Queen Mathilde in the Vatican. POPE FRANCIS: Will visit Belgium in September next year

GERMANY

IRELAND Big money BILLIONAIRE currency trader JP McManus is donating €1 million to Gaelic games in every county in Ireland, to be split equally between men’s football, women’s football, hurling and camogie. The donation will be sent to each county’s Gaelic Athletic Association for distribution to clubs by January 31 next year.

Still working TELECOMS company Eir must reinstate an employee who appealed against the company’s decision to forcibly retire him last July when he turned 65 although he wished to continue working. Eir must also pay him for the time he did not work, the Workplace Relations Commission said. Photo credit: Mazur/catholicnews.org.uk

FRANCE

DENMARK

Tesla tussle

Not wanted

Ring true

Better lives

SWEDEN’S Transport Workers’ Union threatened to expand its sympathy strike against Tesla by blocking waste collection from its premises in Sweden, beginning on Christmas Eve. Several trade unions have launched industrial action against Tesla, which refused to sign a collective agreement for its mechanics in October.

GERMAN soldiers left Mali and brought to an end their 10-year peacekeeping mission which helped to stabilise the country and safeguard human rights. Mali’s military junta, which came to power in 2020, has strengthened ties with Russia and requested the UN force’s exit, despite the threat posed by militant Islamists.

A MALAYSIAN businesswoman staying at the Ritz in Paris filed a complaint with the police after realising that her $800,000 (€727,000) diamond was missing on returning from a shopping trip. Security staff, once alerted, searched the hotel and eventually found the ring inside the bag of a vacuum cleaner.

THE children of non-Western immigrants to Denmark earn three times more than their parents, Statistics Denmark figures revealed. The 30 to 39 age group usually earn more than their parents at that age, but the difference was steeper in persons whose parents were born outside Europe or the West, the survey found.

Low marks

Spy story

Safe now

Home-bred

A TEACHER at a high school in Jonkoping was suspended without pay after he asked pupils to plan a “hypothetical terrorist attack” as one of their assignments. “It’s a total lack of judgment, especially we have a raised terror threat level in this country,” said High Schools chief Henrik Natt och Dag.

THE trial began in Berlin of a former member of Germany’s BND intelligence service and an accomplice who are accused of passing information to the Russian state in 2022. The two men, identified only as Carsten L and Arthur E, allegedly received €450,000 and €400,000 respectively from the Russian authorities.

NOTRE-DAME in Paris will have a unique fire protection system when it reopens in December 2024, announced Philippe Jost, head of the official body in charge of rebuilding the cathedral after the devastating 2019 fire. “All precautions have been taken for a complete rethink of its fire protection,” Jost said.

ENORM BIOFACTORY inaugurated northern Europe’s largest insect farm on a 22,000-square metre site in Hvirring where black soldier flies will be bred and mated to produce larvae. These will then be transformed into insect protein and insect oil to be used as feed for pigs and poultry as an alternative to imported soy.

ITALY

THE NETHERLANDS

FINLAND

PORTUGAL

Birth rights

Carrot cartel

Taxing news

Safe haven

FOLLOWING a government clampdown to stop same-sex parents from registering their children’s births, many expectant couples said that moving abroad, and especially to Spain, was their safest option. Giorgia Meloni, Italy’s right-wing PM has censured “gender ideology” and believes only heterosexual parents should raise children.

FOUR companies which grow and market carrots were fined €2.5 million for creating a cartel that had shared out sales to frozen and canned food companies since 2008. The arrangement also required the Laarakker, VanRijsingen and Verduyn companies to pay €90,000 a year to Veco for excluding it from one of their markets.

FINLAND’S Supreme Court ruled that a journalist on the Helsingin Sanomat should pay tax on legal fees incurred during his trial linked to Finnish Defence Intelligence Agency secrets. Although the newspaper footed the writer’s legal bills, the tribunal said these were not corporate costs but part of his taxable income.

ISRAELIS who wish to escape the current conflict need only a valid passport to obtain a refugee visa enabling them to live and work in Portugal, although this will require renewal every two months. They are also eligible for financial assistance from the government, a report from Israel’s Channel 12 maintained.

Sleep cycle

No cats allowed

Buying power

THE Netherlands National Statistics Agency (CBS) found that 10 per cent of over-17s took at least one of drug once or more between 2021 and 2022, compared with 9 per cent in 2017-2018. The study also revealed that 40 per cent of people taking recreational drugs, particularly cannabis, had difficulty sleeping.

THE Katriina hospital in Vantaa apologised to affected families after a cat entered a temporary morgue there “and came into contact with deceased individuals.” Although the hospital did not give details of the contact, the authorities expressed “deep regret” and said that a criminal report had been filed regarding the incident.

PORTUGAL’S Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per head when expressed as Purchasing Power was 78.7 per cent of the European Union’s average in 2022, but 3.4 percentage points higher than in 2021. This put Portugal in 16th position among the 19 Eurozone countries and 20th in the European Union.

Asylum deal ALBANIA’S government will accept an annual 36,000 migrants rescued in Italian waters and sent for screening prior to admittance. The move was condemned by opposition parties in both countries and non-government organisations, although Albania defended the deal, insisting that it was not “selling territory” to foreign country.

.....................

FINANCE KEVIN HOLLINRAKE, the UK’s Enterprise, Markets and Small Business Minister, told the media that the public increasingly avoided sending letters and greeting cards following three price rises for first class stamps since April 2022. Royal Mail needed to “tread carefully” when introducing further increases, Hollinrake warned.

Share it

TELEFONICA paid its second pre-tax dividend of €0.15 a share on December 14, distributing €862.5 million in all, a yield of 7.5 per cent on the company’s stock. Since 2013, Telefonica’s dividend has fallen from an annual €0.75 total to €0.30 a decline of around 8.8 per year cent per year, analysts said.

Family fortunes

HE liquidators of Avro Energy, which cost bill-paying customers £700 million (€812 million) after it went into administration in 2021, are suing its founder, Jake Brown, a former non-league footballer. They aim to reclaim approximately £4 million (€4.6 million) that Avro paid to another business owned by Brown and his father.

Tax ruling

SPAIN’S highest court, the Constitutional Tribunal, has ruled that the government’s Wealth Tax, a sliding scale levied on fortunes of €3 million upwards, is legal. The Tribunal threw out two appeals from the regional parliaments in the Madrid Community and Murcia which claimed the tax was “unconstitutional.”

Art deal

APOLLO BELVEDERE, a copy of a Roman sculpture created between 1520-1522 by Pier Jacopo Alari Bonacolsi, was donated by its owners to the nation in lieu of a £10.5 million (€12.18 million) inheritance tax payment. It will now be on permanent display at the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge.

STAT OF WEEK

€2.2 billion

contract for Australian subsidiaries of Spanish multinationals ACS and Acciona to build tunnels for Melbourne’s new Suburban Rail Loop East railway line.

UK’s shrinking economy

AGAINST all expectations, the UK economy shrank by 0.3 per cent in October. Economists had predicted zero growth but Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures revealed on December 13 that the gross domestic product (GDP) fell after September’s 0.2 per cent growth. There were contractions across all main sectors of the economy although the services industry was responsible for the greatest fall in output, with declines in IT, legal firms and film production. These were heightened by a dip in manufacturing, while bad weather affected the construction

Photo credit: La Sexta

Think twice

euroweeklynews.com • 21 - 27 December 2023

THE CITY: October growth figures foxed analysts

sector. High interest rates hit businesses and households, putting the brakes on activity, with borrowing costs soaring from 0.1 per cent in December 2021 to 5.25 per cent in December 2023 as the Bank of England wrestled with inflation.

INDITEX finished the first nine months of its financial year with a €4.102 billion net profit. This figure, 32.5 per cent up on the same period last year, is practically the same as 2022’s full-year results of €4.130 million. At the same time and although Bloomberg had initially predicted Inditex sales of €8.866 billion, in-store and online sales in the third quarter increased “only” to €8.758 billion. This was 6.7 per cent more than the same period last year. Despite the apparent slowdown, the autumn-winter collections had been “very well-received”, the company said, explaining that unseasonably high autumn tem-

Crisis bites

VBITES, Heather Mills’s vegan food firm has gone into administration. The former model and ex-wife of Sir Paul McCartney confirmed that the company had failed to obtain enough funding to continue. Mills described the collapse as “extremely distressing”, adding that Brexit had been “an utter disaster.” She also attributed the company’s collapse to factors that included “corporate greed and poor management.” Administrators Interpath Advisory said VBites would continue trading while a buyer is found. 44 employees will remain to fill outstanding orders, with 24 employees redundant.

Threadneedle Street officials and the Bank’s governor Andrew Bailey have already announced that interest must remain high for some time if it is to pull back to the government’s 2 per cent target. Suren Thiru from the Institute of Chartered Accounts in England and

Wales said that the October figures put PM Rishi Sunak’s growth target in jeopardy, with high inflation and borrowing costs set to affect November and December’s economic activity. The GDP figures suggested that the economy was unravelling “even before the full force of previous interest rate rises fed through”, Thiru told the UK media. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt was chipper, nevertheless: “It is inevitable GDP will be subdued whilst interest rates are doing their job to bring down inflation,” he insisted on December 13.

Record-breaking Inditex Photo: Flickr/Rodolfo Bontempi

BUSINESS EXTRA

AMANCIO ORTEGA: Founder of the Inditex empire

peratures in Europe as well as exchange rates had impacted negati-

vely on sales. “Inditex continues to see strong growth opportunities and we are highly satisfied with our performance,” said Inditex chief executive, Oscar Garcia Maceiras. “The tendency is positive in all geographical area and in all concepts.” The company’s shares went up by 1.6 per cent to €39 after the figures were released on December 13 and the owner of Zara plus other best-selling fashion labels predicted that its 2023 sales margin would gain 75 basis points to reach 57.75 per cent.

Power planning

A Triumph

NATIONAL GRID and Scottish Power, Iberdrola’s UK subsidiary, will bring renewable power from Scotland to the north of England. Their Eastern Green Link 1 joint venture has now awarded the first of the contracts worth £1.8 billion (€2.1 billion) to construct a 190-kilometre undersea electricity superhighway. The first goes to Milan-based Prysmian Group which will supply 400 kilometres of power cable for the project. GE Vernova from Massachusetts and Greek company, Mytilineos Energy & Metals, are to provide two HVDC substations, one for each end of the cable linking East Lothian in Scotland and Country Durham Building the power line along the east coast is due to begin in 2025 and will carry enough clean electricity for the equivalent of two million households.

JOHN BLOOR, billionaire owner of Triumph Motorcycles, paid himself a huge dividend after sales and profits soared. Bloor, who made his original fortune in property before coming to the rescue of the iconic Triumph brand, took £13 million (€15 million) in the 12 months to June 23. This was up from Bloor’s £12 million (€13.9 million) Triumph dividend for the previous year. His principal business, Bloor Homes, experienced a “more challenging” year owing high interest rates while Triumph’s pre-tax profits increased by more than £20 million (€23.2 million) to £72.4 million (€84 million).

Digi favoured RUMANIA-BASED Digi confirmed a €120 million Spanish mobile deal with Orange and MasMovil. Orange and MasMovil are working on a new proposal which will convince the European Commission that an €18.6 billion merger of their Spanish operations does not infringe monopoly regulations. Digi was always the most likely candidate to acquire the assets or “remedies” that Orange and MasMovil must shed to allay Brussels’ reservations. The company, said it has also reached agreement for a national roaming option with Orange Spain, enabling Digi Spain to access all Orange mobile technologies and those of its affiliates.

Green ammonia project SPANISH oil and petrol distributor Exolum is buying a green ammonia storage plant in Houston (Texas). Located on the Houston Ship Canal, the terminal, one of the West’s largest, intends to play a key role in the US’s clean ammonia project. Together with its local associates Exolum, they will invest $1.4 billion (€1.2 billion) on increasing green ammonia exports to Asia. The operation, which needs authorisation from both countries’ regulatory bodies, is expected to move an annual 1.1 million tons of ammonia obtained via carbon dioxide capture.

New power hub SLOVAKIAN battery manufacturer InoBat confirmed that it plans to open a factory in Valladolid. Negotiations lasted for several months before InoBat finally decided that the Castilla y Leon city was the best choice for a factory producing batteries for western Europe. Together with Burgos and Palencia, Valladolid forms an important geographic triangle of car and heavy vehicle manufacturers, prompting Inobat’s chairman Andy Palmer to declare that it was “an ideal choice.” The factory will provide between 300 and 500 direct jobs.

24 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023

euroweeklynews.com II FINANCE

LONDON - FTSE 100

Closing Prices 18 December

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

3I Group.....................................2.352,00..............+3,00............ +0,13%.......... 31,79K

InterContinental..........................7.080,0................+6,0............. +0,09%.......... 10,55K

Abrdn.......................................... 184,25................+0,90............ +0,49%......... 492,84K

Intermediate Capital...................1.660,00..............+1,00............ +0,06%.......... 55,26K

Admiral Group.............................2.656,0................+1,0............. +0,04%........... 6,55K

Intertek........................................4.075,0............... -28,0.............-0,69%............ 5,11K

Anglo American...........................1.834,8...............+10,8............ +0,59%......... 244,38K

ITV............................................... 62,92................. -0,24.............-0,38%.......... 319,95K

Antofagasta................................1.629,50.............+12,50........... +0,77%.......... 30,38K

J Sainsbury................................. 293,30................ -0,30.............-0,10%........... 96,18K

Ashtead Group............................5.410,0............... -22,0.............-0,41%........... 16,23K

Johnson Matthey........................1.660,5................+4,5............. +0,27%........... 7,24K

Associated British Foods.............2.364,0................ -6,0..............-0,25%........... 30,84K

Land Securities........................... 710,80................ -1,60.............-0,23%........... 70,35K

AstraZeneca...............................10.256,0..............+70,0............ +0,69%.......... 52,54K

Legal & General.......................... 245,50................ -1,10.............-0,45%.......... 675,59K

Auto Trader Group Plc................ 697,40................+0,20............ +0,03%......... 103,96K

Lloyds Banking............................ 46,89................. -0,12.............-0,26%............4,99M

Aviva........................................... 430,40................+0,30............ +0,07%......... 191,41K

London Stock Exchange..............9.218,0...............+20,0............ +0,22%.......... 15,39K

B&M European Value Retail SA... 563,30................+2,00............ +0,36%.......... 62,54K

Melrose Industries...................... 551,00................+0,80............ +0,14%.......... 67,07K

BAE Systems..............................1.063,50..............+6,00............ +0,57%......... 212,72K

Mondi.........................................1.521,00............. -13,50............-0,88%........... 80,35K

Barclays...................................... 147,14................+0,46............ +0,31%...........1,92M Barratt Developments................. 563,20................ -2,80.............-0,49%.......... 368,20K Berkeley......................................4.799,7............... -72,0.............-1,48%........... 19,00K BHP Group Ltd...........................2.604,00.............+20,00........... +0,77%.......... 41,83K BP............................................... 462,20................+4,30............ +0,94%......... 891,07K British American Tobacco...........2.299,0............... -12,5.............-0,54%.......... 250,38K British Land Company................. 408,30................ -1,00.............-0,24%.......... 143,53K BT Group.................................... 125,60................+0,60............ +0,48%......... 830,57K Bunzl...........................................3.114,0................+1,0............. +0,03%........... 5,57K Burberry Group...........................1.521,5................ -2,0..............-0,13%........... 41,54K Carnival.......................................1.312,5............... -17,0.............-1,28%........... 53,96K Centrica....................................... 139,25................ -2,50.............-1,76%............1,18M Coca Cola HBC AG......................2.273,0................ -4,0..............-0,18%............ 6,52K Compass....................................2.090,00.............. -3,00.............-0,14%........... 78,05K CRH............................................5.270,0............... -34,0.............-0,64%........... 23,61K Croda Intl....................................4.990,0............... -70,0.............-1,38%........... 44,65K DCC.............................................5.660,0............... -20,0.............-0,35%............ 8,21K Diageo.........................................2.831,0................ -2,5..............-0,09%.......... 106,74K DS Smith.................................... 307,90................ -1,70.............-0,55%.......... 318,51K EasyJet........................................ 497,00................ -5,00.............-1,00%.......... 165,84K Experian......................................3.183,0............... -16,0.............-0,50%........... 27,21K Ferguson....................................14.815,0.............. -85,0.............-0,57%............ 4,53K Flutter Entertainment..................13.590,0.............+185,0........... +1,38%.......... 15,22K Fresnillo...................................... 549,54............... -35,40............-6,04%.......... 168,96K Glencore...................................... 462,26................+1,40............ +0,30%...........1,76M GSK plc......................................1.433,40.............+14,20........... +1,00%......... 157,71K Halma..........................................2.259,0................ -2,0..............-0,09%........... 26,32K Hargreaves Lansdown................. 725,00................+3,80............ +0,53%.......... 39,96K Hikma Pharma...........................1.733,50..............+4,00............ +0,23%.......... 10,69K HSBC.......................................... 613,90................+4,90............ +0,81%......... 851,85K IAG.............................................. 157,93................ -1,50.............-0,94%.......... 480,20K Imperial Brands..........................1.807,00.............. -1,00.............-0,06%........... 60,66K Informa....................................... 764,20................ -0,60.............-0,08%........... 82,93K

National Grid..............................1.060,00.............. -6,00.............-0,56%.......... 159,37K NatWest Group........................... 219,50................ -1,70.............-0,77%............2,42M Next............................................8.132,0............... -18,0.............-0,22%............ 3,88K

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY WITH US See our advert on previous page 0.86065

1.16181

Units per € US dollar (USD)...................................1.0917 Japan yen (JPY)...................................155.41 Switzerland franc (CHF).......................0.9483 Denmark kroner (DKK)........................7.4550 Norway kroner (NOK)..........................11.390 currenciesdirect.com/marbella • Tel: +34 952 906 581 THE ABOVE TABLE USES THE CURRENT INTERBANK EXCHANGE RATES, WHICH AREN’T REPRESENTATIVE OF THE RATE WE OFFER

DOW JONES

Tui............................................... 605,50................ -5,00.............-0,82%........... 85,39K

Closing Prices 18 December 3M.............................................. 106,86................ -0,18.............-0,17%............5,19M American Express....................... 180,56................+1,70............ +0,95%...........4,25M Amgen........................................ 275,45................ -0,87.............-0,31%............8,68M Apple........................................... 197,57................ -0,54.............-0,27%..........114,81M Boeing......................................... 263,46................+7,22............ +2,82%..........13,47M Caterpillar.................................... 285,48................+0,31............ +0,11%...........4,32M Chevron...................................... 149,33................ -0,60.............-0,40%...........14,34M Cisco............................................ 49,87.................+0,43............ +0,87%..........57,69M Coca-Cola..................................... 58,54................. -0,50.............-0,85%...........46,33M Dow............................................. 54,22................. -0,01.............-0,02%............9,11M Goldman Sachs........................... 380,29................ -3,18.............-0,83%............4,33M Home Depot................................ 353,47................+1,66............ +0,47%...........5,55M Honeywell................................... 203,40................ -0,01.............-0,00%............7,44M IBM............................................. 162,25................ -0,65.............-0,40%............4,63M Intel.............................................. 46,16.................+0,98............ +2,17%..........81,76M J&J............................................. 155,04................ -1,83.............-1,17%............8,72M JPMorgan................................... 164,81................+0,82............ +0,50%..........11,22M McDonald’s................................. 286,92................ -3,10.............-1,07%............4,12M Merck&Co................................... 105,64................ -0,24.............-0,23%............9,48M Microsoft.................................... 370,73................+4,80............ +1,31%..........63,52M Nike............................................. 121,47................+0,45............ +0,37%...........7,75M Procter&Gamble......................... 143,91................ -0,75.............-0,52%............8,78M Salesforce Inc............................. 261,53................+4,32............ +1,68%...........6,66M The Travelers.............................. 182,78................+0,02............ +0,01%...........2,61M UnitedHealth............................... 530,75................ -3,49.............-0,65%............4,47M Verizon......................................... 37,35................. -0,51.............-1,36%...........48,34M Visa A.......................................... 257,38................ -1,35.............-0,52%............5,70M Walgreens Boots.......................... 25,20.................+0,06............ +0,24%..........22,26M Walmart...................................... 152,83................+0,66............ +0,43%...........9,83M Walt Disney.................................. 93,40................. -0,54.............-0,57%...........10,74M

Unilever.......................................3.734,0............... -21,5.............-0,57%.......... 122,52K

M - Million Dollars

Ocado.......................................... 707,20............... -15,80............-2,19%........... 88,96K Persimmon.................................1.361,0.................0,0............... 0,00%........... 46,74K Phoenix....................................... 519,40................+0,40............ +0,08%......... 113,69K Prudential.................................... 866,40................ -9,60.............-1,10%.......... 205,49K Reckitt Benckiser........................5.408,0............... -36,0.............-0,66%........... 74,43K Relx............................................3.045,00.............+21,00........... +0,69%......... 120,71K Rentokil....................................... 420,70................ -6,30.............-1,48%.......... 173,01K Rightmove.................................. 557,00................ -0,20.............-0,04%.......... 132,78K Rio Tinto PLC..............................5.745,0...............+47,0............ +0,82%......... 107,63K Rolls-Royce Holdings................. 292,50................+2,20............ +0,76%...........1,73M Sage...........................................1.176,50..............+7,50............ +0,64%.......... 76,56K Samsung Electronics DRC.........1.396,00.............. -3,00.............-0,21%............ 0,84K Schroders.................................... 437,0.................. -1,0..............-0,23%........... 41,36K Scottish Mortgage....................... 786,40................+1,60............ +0,20%......... 225,99K Segro.......................................... 866,40................ -3,40.............-0,39%.......... 119,18K Severn Trent...............................2.643,0...............+24,0............ +0,92%.......... 16,47K Shell............................................2.518,0...............+15,0............ +0,60%......... 202,66K Smith & Nephew........................1.043,00.............. -1,50.............-0,14%........... 40,94K Smiths Group.............................1.728,50.............. -3,00.............-0,17%........... 13,18K Spirax-Sarco Engineering..........10.140,0............. -160,0............-1,55%............ 7,38K SSE............................................1.865,50.............. -7,50.............-0,40%........... 52,57K St. James’s Place........................ 685,20................+7,60............ +1,12%......... 109,06K Standard Chartered..................... 649,40................+6,80............ +1,06%......... 137,11K Taylor Wimpey............................ 144,30................+0,50............ +0,35%...........1,16M Tesco.......................................... 283,00................+0,30............ +0,11%......... 674,41K

United Utilities............................1.098,50..............+6,50............ +0,59%.......... 35,69K Vodafone Group PLC.................. 68,080...............+3,360........... +5,19%..........17,71M Whitbread...................................3.461,4............... -19,0.............-0,55%........... 33,83K WPP............................................ 740,61............... -10,00............-1,33%.......... 156,58K

NASDAQ

Closing Prices 18 December

Company

Change Net / %

Volume

Most Advanced Compañía de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A.........+25.13%........................20.401M VinFast Auto Ltd...............................................+13.54%.........................6.359M DocuSign, Inc..................................................+12.46%........................30.388M Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc...........................+9.92%..........................2.225M BridgeBio Pharma, Inc......................................+9.64%..........................5.958M Hut 8 Corp........................................................+9.26%..........................7.456M IGO Limited.......................................................+8.18%.......................... 33,562 Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd....................................+7.80%.......................... 50,995 Glaukos Corporation.........................................+7.58%..........................3.192M Credicorp Ltd....................................................+7.15%..........................1.107M M - Million Dollars

Most Declined Indivior PLC...................................................... -9.52%......................... 176,807 New Oriental Education & Technology Group Inc..-9.35%.......................5.698M eXp World Holdings, Inc................................... -8.52%..........................4.746M Surgery Partners, Inc........................................ -8.28%...........................3.15M Medical Properties Trust, Inc............................ -7.68%.........................25.033M XPeng Inc......................................................... -7.54%..........................25.63M Centrais Elétricas Brasileiras S.A. - Eletrobrás.. -7.07%.......................... 55,757 Roku, Inc.......................................................... -6.76%..........................9.174M Maple Leaf Foods Inc........................................ -6.75%.......................... 68,990 Savers Value Village, Inc................................... -6.69%..........................1.529M Remitly Global, Inc............................................ -6.64%..........................4.947M

M - Million Dollars

FINANCE II euroweeklynews.com

New field

BRITAIN’S biggest drugmaker AstraZeneca is taking over Seattle-based Icosavax, its first vaccine company, in a $1.1 billion (€1.01 billion) deal that will extend the Cambridge-based firm’s inoculation and immune therapy division. The US company is currently developing a potential vaccine used for two common respiratory diseases, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human metapneumovirus (hMPV).

Beer money

HEINEKEN and the Spanish unions agreed a redundancy plan necessary “for organisational reasons” that will affect 9 per cent of the company’s 1,434 workforce. The company said practically all the 127 dismissals would be early retirements and were accepted by 85 per cent of the staff.

London listing for Boots

Linda Hall WALGREENS, US-based parent company of Boots, could float Britain’s principal pharmacy chain on the London stock exchange. In June 2022, Walgreens Boots Alliance dropped £5 billion (€5.8 billion) plans to sell Boots and its No 7 cosmetics brand after prospective buyers could not raise sufficient cash owing to global market conditions. Walgreens, now in preliminary talks regarding

Photo credit: CC/Ardern

BUSINESS EXTRA

21 - 27 December 2023

BOOTS: US-owned pharmacy chain is a UK household name

Inflation on track SPAIN’S inflation fell three-tenths of a percentage point to 3.2 per cent in November, thanks to lower fuel and food prices. Underlying inflation, excluding energy and fresh foodstuffs, dropped seven-tenths to 4.5 per cent, the National Institute of Statistics (INI) announced on December 14. After going below double-digits last Oc-

tober for the first time in 18 months, food inflation tumbled again in November with a five-tenths reduction to a still-high 9 per cent compared with November 2022. Bread, cereals, milk, eggs and cheese cost less although olive oil was 66.7 per cent dearer than in November 2022, together with rice (17.1 per cent), pulses and vegetables (16.8 per cent) and confectionery (16.6 per cent).

Boots’ future, is putting a value of £7 billion (€8.12 billion) on the chain according to a recent Bloomberg report. Listed on the New York stock exchange, Walgreens has a market value of about $20 billion (€18.54 billion) although its shares have fallen by around 40 per cent this year. Nevertheless divesting itself of Boots should be easier for the company following its £4.8 billion (€5.6 billion) sale of its pension scheme - one of the UK’s largest with 53,000 members - to Legal and General. Floating Boots in London would give the UK stock market a welcome boost now that German holiday company Tui is considering listing in Frankfurt, with building materials group CRH listing in the US, while Arm, the Cambridge-based chip designer, decided to switch to New York.

EWN 25

Word play THAMES WATER apologised to a House of Commons committee for causing confusion by describing a £500 million (€583.2 million) shareholder contribution as equity when it was a convertible loan paying 8 per cent interest. Company chairman Sir Adrian Montagu admitted this had a “slightly strange” structure but still stood by the view that it could be considered capital.

Sweet news SPAIN’S sweet and confectionery industry reported a €6.75 billion turnover last year, with €2 billion in exports despite inflation and high interest rates. Produlce, the association representing the sector, said that national and international sales had returned to pre-pandemic levels, with chewing gum and sweets, excluding chocolate, accounting for €1.16 billion or 17.2 per cent of total sales.

26 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023

euroweeklynews.com II NEWS

Opposition setback French Sénatrice Martine Berthet proposed the review.

Credit: Martine Berthet Facebook

ON Monday December 11, the French National Assembly narrowly rejected a controversial immigration bill which included a review of the 90-day rule for British home owners in France. Steven Jolly of the France Visa Free Group commented “We are hoping France will help us solve the 90-in-180 day problem for all British visitors , regardless of whether or not they own property. “So, ultimately we would also like to see every British visitor to

France treated in exactly the same way as French visitors to the UK today, and given a six month per visit, visa exemption or automatically issued visa. Perhaps like the bilateral arrangements USA, Canada or Japan have. “Such a France-specific arrangement would be in addition to the 90-in-180 day Schengen Visa Waiver that Brits would still have for use in the other 26 countries.” Andrew Hesselden Founder of 180 Days in Spain took a somewhat

more upbeat view of the result saying “At first glance, this might look like it’s bad news for second home owners in France. But the Immigration Bill, thrown out today by a ‘motion to dismiss’, actually covered lots of different migration provisions, not just those that were intended to help British part-year dwellers. “I think people have every reason to be optimistic, because Sénatrice Martine Berthet’s proposal has really put the topic squarely on the agenda of French lawmakers. Our own members were amazed today to learn that almost a quarter of French députés have backed or proposed some 20 separate amendments, all of which are designed to help part year residents in France. I think that’s incredible, given how difficult it has felt at times to get recognition of these issues.” So the debate carries on and it is hoped that the matter in France will be resurrected and if it gains traction, then the Spanish Government with an eye of visitor spend may well be persuaded to follow suit as it affects so many second home owners in Spain.

28 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023 INTERVIEW

Why Europeans Move To Spain As part of the ongoing series, we spoke to 24-year-old Niamh Eades who left the UK as a youngster to move to Alicante. As a wide-eyed five-yeardata streams of a media old in 2004, Niamh company as a data bid farewell to her analyst. Derbyshire roots It seems Niamh’s and embarked childhood dream on a thrilling adnever waned as venture with her she confirms: “I parents to a tiny share my world Spanish village with two horses north of Alicante. and two ponies “I can rememamong other resber being really excue animals.” cited about the move When asked about Image: Niamh Eades because a promise had any challenges of living Embracing life in Spain been made, the promise of in Spain, Niamh confesses, a horse. My passion for these ma“Being a horse owner in Spain jestic creatures had ignited long before, (legally) is a nightmare, but worth every and this move was a dream come true,” hurdle.” she confirmed. “And, what makes it all worthwhile is Niamh underwent a transformation, the weather, which is a bonus for animal from British school desks to Spanish class- lovers who spend most of their time outrooms, armed with a three-month inten- doors.” sive Spanish course. When asked if there was anything These were the foundational steps of about Blighty that Niamh misses, she cona life that would lead Niamh to Alicante firmed: “I miss the London musical theaUniversity, where she pursued a degree in tre scene, but Madrid’s theatre scene has computer engineering. witnessed a remarkable evolution in the Today, she finds herself navigating the past five years.”

euroweeklynews.com II NEWS/FEATURE

Alzheimer’s advancement SPAIN is emerging as a key player in Alzheimer’s disease research within Europe, boasting seven phase III clinical trials. This achievement places Spain alongside the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, and just behind France, which leads with eight ongoing trials. According to the ‘European Dementia Monitor’ report by Alzheimer Europe, this significant investment in research demonstrates Spain’s commitment to addressing Alzheimer’s. These findings were announced in a recent report which highlighted the disparities in Alzheimer’s treatment and research across Europe. Despite Spain’s progress, the treatment of Alzheimer’s in Europe varies significantly. Despite limited research access, Luxembourg offers the continent’s best care and service. Conversely, Bulgaria ranks at the lower end in terms of Alzheimer’s patient care. The differences are particularly pronounced between Eastern and Western Europe, historically divided by the Iron Curtain. Alzheimer Europe’s report evaluates countries based on 10 criteria, including healthcare service availability, cost, medication coverage, and access to clinical trials. Overall, Spain scored 58 out of 100,

ranking 14th in Europe. The report also sheds light on countries like Greece, Ireland, and Sweden, which have initiated strategies to tackle Alzheimer’s, with Sweden excelling in pharmacological coverage. France, Germany, and the Netherlands stand out for their collaboration in European Alzheimer’s research, each scoring 100 per cent. However, several countries, including Armenia and Ukraine, do not participate in the Joint Research Program for Neurodegenerative Diseases. The report also highlights progress in adopting human rights conventions related to dementia, with several countries, including Cyprus and Greece, making significant strides. Regarding the recognition of dementia as a research and public health priority, only the United Kingdom obtains a perfect score, reports Alzheimer Europe. Spain, alongside Austria and the United Kingdom, receive recognition from Alzheimer Europe for their efforts. Countries like Bulgaria and Romania, however, raise concerns among Alzheimer’s experts. Jean Georges, CEO of Alzheimer Europe, expresses hope this report will inspire governments to improve the lives of people with dementia and their carers.

30 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023

euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE

La Sala

Rocking Christmas

AS the clear blue sky stretches above, and the warm sun sprinkles its golden rays, the sight of snow ski cars lined up outside La Sala seems oddly fitting. It’s a picturesque scene, reminiscent of an après-ski venue without the exhaustion of conquering the slopes. La Sala, the iconic establishment on the Costa del Sol, is celebrating its 13th Christmas, and it has never lost its infectious ‘joie de vivre’ spirit. This place is the embodiment of Christmas joy, a ‘Wonderful World’ where magic happens year-round. The moment you step through those doors, you are welcomed into an atmosphere of unbridled joy and merriment. La Sala’s enduring charm lies in its ability to create a perpetual celebration. It’s a place where time slows down, and every day feels like a reason to rejoice. The directors and staff are the heart and soul of this vibrant establishment, and their dedication is palpable. Their passion for ensuring each guest feels cherished is the cornerstone of La Sala’s enduring popularity. Christmas at La Sala is an extraordinary experience, a celebration that lingers in your memory long after the holiday season has passed. The decor is tasteful yet abundant, with shiny balls, twinkling tinsels, mini Santa Clauses, and stockings adorning every corner. In the background, the sweet melodies of Christmas songs fill the air, and it feels as if the holiday spirit has taken residence. Amidst this festive backdrop, the big, cuddly Father Christmas greets you, surrounded by his trusty reindeer, robins, owls, and other adorable furry animals. The sight is a testament to La Sala’s commitment to creating a magical atmosphere. Every detail has been carefully considered, and the result is a sensory experience that captivates the soul.

The party atmosphere is infectious, drawing in locals and tourists alike. La Sala is more than just a restaurant; it’s a place where strangers become friends and where the spirit of togetherness thrives. The laughter flows freely, and the dance floor beckons to those who are ready to let loose and groove to the rhythm of life. It’s a place where traditions are honoured, but innovation is embraced. The Christmas feast is nothing short of exceptional, with the succulent turkey taking centre stage and great options for vegans and vegetarians ensuring that everyone’s tastes are catered to. But amidst the delectable dishes, there’s an undeniable excitement in the air. Guests can’t sit still; they’re too busy popping into conversations, hopping onto the dance floor, and exchanging Secret Santas. As we celebrate this milestone 13th Christmas at La Sala, it’s clear that this establishment has found a winning formula. The bubbles flow, the laughter echoes, and the sense of togetherness is palpable. La Sala has mastered the art of creating unforgettable moments, where every day feels like a celebration. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, La Sala welcomes you into its extended family. The warmth of the staff and the camaraderie among guests make it feel like home. As we leave, we can’t help but feel grateful for the laughter, love, and cherished memories we’ve experienced. In conclusion, La Sala is more than just a restaurant - it’s a testament to the enduring power of joy and togetherness. It’s a place where magical moments happen, where strangers become friends, and where the spirit of Christmas lives on yearround. Here’s to many more years of laughter, love, and celebrations in this extraordinary place that truly embodies the spirit of Christmas. La Sala is not just a venue; it’s the heart of Christmas joy, a place where Christmas rocks all year long.

Thank you La Sala for a Christmas party to be remembered. 952 81 41 45 • reservations@LaSalaBanus.com • www.LaSalaBanus.com

COSTA DEL SOL

Strauss in Marbella

Live the magic THE Berlin Circus returns to Malaga for Christmas to enjoy with the family with ‘Vive la magia’, a show full of surprises including a visit by father Christmas. It will be at the Fairgrounds from Friday, December 22 to Sunday, January 14. Under the big top, the audience will enjoy more magic than ever, the galactic power of the incredible LaserWoman, the adventure of Mario Bros with his friends, aerial acrobats, costume changes in tenths of a second, funny antics of the clowns and a host of attractions. This is a special Christmas adventure that keeps the essence of the circus alive. A spellbinding entertainment for all the family, from the youngest to the grandparents,

can experience a story brimming with illusion where humour, risk, emotion and fantasy are concentrated in a production charged with a special magic. The performances are at midday, 5pm, 6pm and 7.30pm, although they may vary depending on the day. Circo Berlin has been touring Spain for more than 25 years and it has become a tradition for many families to visit the Berlin Circus every year, as this company has always been committed to offering quality under its big top. The Circus Berlin brand offers a renewed show every season in which you can find a cast of artists from all over the world. You can buy tickets for Circo Berlin in Malaga from one hour before each show at the box office.

VIENNA comes to Marbella when the Strauss Festival Orchestra performs the traditional New Year’s Concert at the Palacio de Congresos of Marbella on Thursday, December 28 at 5pm. The orchestra will perform Johann Strauss’ bestknown works and will be accompanied by the Strauss Festival Ballet Ensemble. The traditional New Year’s Concert is inspired by the musical event held every year in Vienna, with a selection of the best waltzes, polkas and marches by Johann Strauss. The Strauss Festival Orchestra has a long career touring all the main European concert halls, including the Musikverein in Vienna, the Het Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Philarmonie in Berlin, the Musikhalle in Hamburg,

excerpts from his brilliant operetta The Bat. The most famous of all waltzes, On the Beautiful Blue Danube, and the Radetzky March will of course, not be missing. Since its foundation in 1978, the Strauss Festival Orchestra Vienna has established itself in international music as a top ensemble and a byword for the authentic interpretation of Viennese music with

glittering performances at music festivals, sensational TV concerts and worldwide tours, as well as with its CD and DVD recordings. The Strauss Festival Orchestra is made up of teachers and soloists of the highest musical and professional qualifications, and has managed to keep the traditional Viennese art alive. Equally matched, both musically and professionally, to the talents of the members of the Strauss Festival Orchestra, the Strauss Festival Ballet Ensemble has given the ‘Great New Year’s Concert’ a decidedly original character, through stylised choreography and wonderful costumes specially created to illustrate some of the musical numbers. Enjoy the end of the year with a dive into old Vienna without leaving Marbella.

The Mersey Beatles

Flamenco Zambomba

Photo: Facebook / Strauss Festival Orchestra

NEW YEAR CONCERT: Celebrating Johann Strauss’ works.

the Auditorium Parco della Musica in Rome, the Gran Teatre del Liceu and the Palau de la Música in Barcelona, the Teatro Real and the Auditorio Nacional de Música in Madrid. The orchestra will be accompanied by the Strauss Festival Ballet and will perform the best-known works by the ‘king of the waltz’, such as Viennese Blood, Voices of Spring, Emperor’s Waltz, Champagne and

THE sound of Liverpool comes to Marbella with the best songs of the Beatles: a show replicating the legendary quartet’s costumes and an unforgettable show at Marbella’s Palacio de Congresos on Saturday, January 6 at 8pm. “The Mersey Beatles have been performing at The Cavern Club for over 15 years, and they’re one of the best tributes you’ll ever see,” said John Lennon’s sister herself. The Mersey Beatles are natural, vibrant and fun and have achieved the impossible: recreating all the excitement and energy of an authentic John, Paul, George and Ringo concert. The Mersey Beatles were not dreamed up by a theatre impresario or West End producer… these lads are the real deal. They pride themselves on being four mates whose passion for the greatest band of all time shines through in every one of their shows. While receiving world-wide plaudits (including glowing praise from members of The Beatles’ own families), The Mersey Beatles have never forgotten their roots and pride

themselves on presenting the Fab Four in a most authentic and truly Liverpool-born way. Mark Bloor, Steven Howard and Brian Ambrose (that’s John, Paul and Ringo) were at school together in Liverpool. The Mersey Beatles were the resident Beatles’ tribute at the world-famous Cavern for more than a decade between 2002-2012. They clocked up over 600 performances under the famed Mathew Street arches; almost twice as many gigs there as the original Fab Four played themselves. Since leaving to tour the world, they have taken their pounding, pulsating and unmistakable ‘Mersey Beat’ to excited and sold-out audiences across Europe, USA, Asia and Australia. And in January they’re coming to Marbella, so, get on board for The Mersey Beatles ‘Magical History Tour’, you’ll have a FAB time! Tickets can be bought online at this link https://www.elcorteingles.es/entradas/ conciertos/entradas-the-beatles-tribu te-the-mersey-beatles-marbella-malaga33840338402626/

CHRISTMAS music in Flamenco style on Friday, December 22 at 8pm. Estepona Town Hall has organised, a Flamenco Zambomba to be held in the Plaza Antonia Guerrero, with traditional music group ‘El Sopa y Familia’, a band of magnificent flamenco performers. The zambombas were improvised in the patios of neighbours, corrales, in the courtyards, and in the streets and squares..., with the joy of the whole town celebrating Christmas. And on Friday you can enjoy this Spanish tradition for yourselves in Estepona, completely free.

32 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023

photo: Facebook / Producciones Salvajes / Koldo Izagirre

Masters of Rock

Santa’s Village CHILDREN’S fun in the chocolate house, Santa Claus boat and Christmas train, with crazy penguins, artificial snowfall, and much more. it’s all happening in Estepona on Saturday, December 23, from 5pm to 9pm. Estepona Town Hall has organised a party in the Santa Claus Christmas Village, as part of the activities for the Christmas holidays. The event will take place in the Plaza del Ajedrez, where the little ones will be greeted by Santa Claus and will be able to have fun in the chocolate house, Santa Claus’ boat and the Christmas train. There will be crazy penguins, an artificial snowfall, and much more. And best of all - access will be completely free.

euroweeklynews.com II SOCIAL SCENE

XMAS VILLAGE: Visit Santa Claus in the chocolate house.

Brassed off

THE Malaga Brass Band is performing at Paseo las Palmeras in San Pedro Alcantara on Saturday, December 23 at 7pm with free admission. This Christmas concert will take us on a journey through the history of brass and percussion music. From Richard Strauss to the film music of John Williams and Christmas carols from various countries plus the obligatory Radetzky March by Johan Strauss. The band was founded in 2015 by the trombonist and conductor Víctor Eloy López, and is made up of professionals from the most important musical institutions in Málaga: Conservatorio Superior de Música de Málaga, Orquesta Filarmónica de Málaga, Orquesta Sinfónica de Málaga and Banda Municipal de Málaga.

TRIBUTE FESTIVAL: The bands cover four influential groups in rock history.

ONE of the most awaited events of the year is coming to Malaga! This is the Masters of Rock XL Tribute Festival, a show that pays tribute to four of the most influential bands in rock history: Metallica, Gun’s and Roses, Iron Maiden and AC/ DC. The audience will be able to enjoy the classics and greatest hits of these rock masters performed by three of the best tribute bands. If you love rock music and are passionate about these legendary bands, you can’t miss this opportunity to enjoy the best rock live. It’s at La Trinchera, Malaga on Saturday, December 23 at 9.45pm. At this festival, rock lovers can relive the

greatest hits of Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Iron Maiden and AC/DC performed by high quality tribute bands. The duration of the show is approximately three hours, during which the most emblematic classics of these bands that have left an indelible mark on the history of music will be played. The experience of attending a tribute of this magnitude is unique. You will be able to enjoy the energy and power of live rock, performed by talented musicians who strive to capture the essence and spirit of the original bands. In addition, the Masters of Rock XL is known for its impressive staging, with fabulous visual and sound effects.

Oh Happy Days GOSPEL music is devotion in its purest form from the

Mississippi Gospel Choir. It is energy that envelops

and infects, that moves and makes us vibrate and it comes to Marbella on Sunday, January 7 at the Palacio de Congresos at 7pm. Mississippi Gospel Choir offers us an intense journey from the spiritual songs of the 19th century to a tribute to the songs of protest and marches for freedom, with well-known songs such as Oh Happy Day! The choir won several awards for its contributions to gospel music and toured extensively throughout the United States, Europe, Japan and Latin America. The great voices of gospel music return to our country for the 16th time, this time with a renewed stage show seasoned with the rhythms of funk and blues.

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Food with a view: Vista Lago Restaurant

ENJOY a new dining experience on the Costa del Sol, where delicious dishes are paired with a stunning setting, as live music plays through the night. Situated close to Marbella, Mijas and Fuengirola, Vista Lago Restaurant not only enjoys a picturesque mountain backdrop, but also boasts a luxury pool and their very own lake, or ‘lago’ in Spanish. If you are looking for a romantic evening, a luxury meal or even just a leisurely lunch with friends, Vista Lago Restaurant is the perfect place to spend any day or night. Their lunch and dinner offerings, including meats, fish and pasta dishes are cooked with passion to perfection each and every time. For lighter bites by the pool, they also offer a small bites menu, served all day so that you never go hungry. Their refined menu focuses

on classic Mediterranean dishes that are cooked with only the highest quality, local and fresh ingredients. Their famous grill has attained them a reputation for their juicy, succuDelicious dishes served in a stunning setting. lent meat, obtaining their cuts from qualicialises in cocktails, which have ty sources. Vista Lago also spe- been specially curated by their

mixologist, as well as having a full international wine list to pair a bottle or glass perfectly with each delectable dish. If you are an early bird, Vista Lago Restaurant serves incredible international cooked breakfasts, with freshly baked bread and bakery products each morning. Enjoy your morning coffee gazing at a mountain top, as the relaxing sound of natural water from the lake soothes your mind and soul. Vista Lago also hosts a variety of live music events, with the soulful singer Amelinde performing live on December 24 at their Christmas Eve party! For just €25 per person you can join in on the festive singing

Vista Lago, Calle Tranco 4, Mijas, Malaga *** Tel: 951 152 524

and dancing, as well as some delicious party food platters that will be served throughout the evening. As an extra bonus, and in the holiday spirit, with each adult a child can go free! On Christmas Day they will be offering a three-course menu, serving all your festive favourites, cooked with their excellent standards and ingredients. In addition, if you’re feeling a little glum on Boxing Day, check out their brilliant brunch, with half price mimosas and cava, to keep that party feeling going right into the New Year! For bookings contact 951 152 524 or visit Vista Lago Restaurant on Calle Tranco, 4 in Mijas, Malaga. Be sure to also follow their social media pages @vistalagorestaurant so you don’t miss out on any updates!

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Giant yule BENALMADENA will have a 100 metre long yule log this Christmas. Its assembly will begin at 9am on December 22 and it is expected to be finished at around 4pm, an initiative led by baker Carlos Carrasco. It will be the largest Christmas log in Andalucia and is in aid of charities: the Cudeca Foundation and the Ela Association. In total, 100 metres of yule log will fill the centre of Calle Real in Benalmadena Pueblo, a log which will be sold to locals and visitors for €2 a portion, €5 a portion with a t-shirt as a gift, or €10 a portion, with a t-shirt and an apron. Carlos Carrasco developed the idea and, to make it he needs: 100 kilos of sponge cake, 100 kilos of custard, hazelnut paste, 100 litres of cream and 40 kilos of black chocolate couverture.

A Xmas soundtrack

ON Friday, December 22, Fuengirola will host the traditional Christmas concert by the Municipal Music Band. This show, directed by Alfredo Alarcón Campoy, will start at 8.30pm and will be completely free for all those attending. “We are going to end this musical year of the Fuengirola Municipal Band with a concert that is one of the most awaited, one of the most beautiful and also has a beautiful repertoire,” said the councillor for Culture, Rodrigo Romero, noting that, “I hope that the Palacio de la Paz will be full again, because

Photo: Facebook / Fuengirola Municipal Band

MUNICIPAL BAND: Will play musical film soundtracks.

this music will also delight the children, as there will be themes from soundtracks that we all know.” The concert will be dedicated to songs from films such as The Dark Knight, Beetlejuice, The Lord of the Rings,

Jurassic Park and Star Wars. The Fuengirola Municipal Band has performed 295 concerts to date since 1997, with the ensemble made up of professional musicians and directed by Alfredo Alarcón Campoy.

Meet the Clauses

MANILVA Town Hall, whose councillor in charge is Fina Gómez, has announced the arrival of Father and Mrs Christmas on December 21 and 22. They’re very busy at this time of year but they are taking time out to visit Ma-

Photo: Flickr CC / Emery Way

Meet Mr and Mrs Clause.

nilva with their carriage and costumes so that families can greet them. The itinerary is: - December 21, El Castillo, Puerto de la Duquesa and Sabinillas from 4pm to 7pm - December 22, Manilva centre from 5pm to 7pm.

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Photo: Marbella Town hallppp

FATHER CHRISTMAS was the star of the show on Thursday, December 14, with the inauguration of his house in the Paseo de la Alameda after a parade through Marbella Old Town. The little ones also enjoyed a children’s show and more surprises. The Christmas parade filled the squares and streets with festive joy thanks to the magic of Father Christmas and his elves. All the children who wish to do so can deliver their letters to Father Christmas’ house, located in the church square, on the following days and at the following times: December 22 – 5pm to 8.30pm December 23 – 11am to 1.30pm and 5pm to 8.30pm December 24 – 11am to 1.30pm

CHRISTMAS LETTERS: Deliver to Santa’s house.

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Christmas games Photo: Torremolinos Town Hall

It’s beginning to feel a lot like….

COUNCILLOR for Youth of the Torremolinos Town Hall, Francisco García Macías, accompanied by representatives of Studio Dflow and La Máquina Imaginaria, announced a special Christmas programme organised by the Youth Area, which will offer K-pop Masterclass, Gastronomy Workshops and activities with board games, all free of charge and targeted at young people in the area. “The Torremolinos Youth Department has prepared a series of activities for our youngest residents and visitors during these days, so that they can have fun and enjoy activities specially designed for them,” explained the councillor. On December 26 and 28 in the Plaza Costa del Sol, from midday until 2pm there will be a K-pop Masterclass, taught by Studio Dflow, a school that since 2007 is dedicated to urban dance of all styles and has great professionals, having participated in countless events in and out of the province. K-pop is a style of music from South Korea that is made up of different types

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CHRISTMAS PROGRAMME: Will offer activities for younger residents.

of music popular in the Asian country. It has evolved over time, however, and has become attached to styles from the West, such as rock, jazz, hip-hop, reggae, country and classical music. The initial aim of this movement has been to have a wide reach and receptivity worldwide by mixing rhythms, breaking the language barrier. K-pop fosters creativity, boosts self-esteem and provides opportunities for young people to socialise. On December 27 and

January 3 there will be a Gastronomy Workshop for young people, which will be run by the young chef of the Universidad Popular de Torremolinos, who will introduce participants to the culinary world. It will take place at the Pablo Ruiz Picasso Cultural Centre from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. On January 2, 3 and 4, the Área Joven has organised a Board Games Conference in the Pablo Ruiz Picasso Cultural Centre from 6pm to 9pm to enjoy for three hours

more than 500 different games, one giant game per day, raffles among the participants, gifts for the winners, a stand with games and the latest novelties presented in the last edition of BGC, all with the guarantee and professionalism of the Imaginary Machine. García Macías concluded by saying, “young people are the future of our town and it is important to offer them the opportunities they need to develop and grow.” All the activities are free of charge.

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€10,000 prize Photo: pxhere CC

THE ‘Estepona Crea’ competition was launched in 2015 with the aim of promoting and encouraging culture and art among young people in the town. A new edition of the competition has now been launched and those interested in participating can do so until December 31. The aim of the competition is to promote and encourage culture and art among young people in the town, as well as to promote stage and musical projects where originality, quality, creativity and artistic innovation are paramount. The competition is open to amateur singers under 35 years of age, whose main professional activity is not music and who are residents of Estepona. There are two categories: up to 14 years of age for the children’s category; and from 15 to 35 years of age for the youth category. These ages must be reached on the day of the competition, which will be April 20, 2024. The competition has a cash prize of €10,000, to be distributed as follows for each of the categories: first prize: €2,500 plus a trophy; second

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It’s all going on at the Irish Times

Enhancing the joy of Christmas. PROMOTING CULTURE: Among young people of the town.

prize: €1,500; and third prize, €1,000. In addition to the cash prize, each of the first prize winners will receive a sculpture of the Venus of Estepona, sculpted by local artist Juan Miguel Quiñones. Registration for the competition is free of charge and can be done exclusively online. To do so, applicants must send an email, before December 31, to esteponacrea@estepo na.es. The jury, which will be made up of people of recognised professional, cultural and artistic prestige, appoin-

ted by the Department of Culture, will make an initial selection of the participants who will go on to the final phase, which will be held on April 20, 2024, in the Felipe VI Auditorium. After the gala performances, the jury’s decision will be announced and the ‘10th Estepona Crea 2024’ awards will be presented to the winners. All the information and rules can be consulted on the notice board of the electronic headquarters https://ayunta miento.estepona.es/ and at www.estepona.es/cultura.

THE Irish Times Calahonda recently showcased a heartwarming act of community generosity by presenting 10 families with abundant hampers, ensuring a joyous Christmas. Each hamper was filled with festive delights along with vouchers for meat from Parkes Butchers and Iceland from the Euro Weekly. The fortunate winners are now equipped for a cheerful holiday season. The event, showed our community spirit, featured music by Ollie Hughes and a surprise visit from Santa Claus, spreading smiles among everyone young and old. The live selection of winners was published live on Facebook extending the festive joy beyond the venue, engaging the wider community. More festivities await at The Irish Times

Calahonda this December. A Kiddies Christmas Party is scheduled for December 23, promising fun for children from 13.00 to 16.00. Bobbie Berguist’s soulful tunes will grace Christmas Eve, followed by a surprise Boxing Day party. Welcoming the New Year, Monkey Tennis will provide energetic beats on New Year’s Eve. The venue continues to embody the holiday spirit by fostering community connections and enhancing the joy of Christmas for everyone involved. For inquiries or information on nominations, contact 722 724 695. The Irish Times Calahonda’s festive schedule - is filled with great acts, spreading cheer, bonding communities, and brightening the holiday season for all.

The Irish Times *** Your late night venue in Calahonda

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Marc Anthony in Marbella IN the summer of 2024, the the La Caridad venue, “has celona), the WiZink Centre Finca de La Caridad festival a capacity that many other (Madrid), the Iconica Fest ground in San Pedro Alcan- cities would like to have and in the Plaza de España in tara will host major concerts that is why we have chosen Seville, the City of Arts and and renowned artists Marc it for the tour.” Sciences (Valencia), “and we Anthony, has now been conThe artist will perform in could not miss a venue such firmed to perform on June all the major Spanish cities, as San Pedro Alcántara,” he 21 at the end of his national with concerts in the best added tour ‘Historia Tour’. venues in the country, such Pre-registration for tickets Marc Anthony, is an Ame- as the Palau Sant Jordi (Bar- has already been activarican singer, songwriter, and ted on the website https:// actor. He is the top selling www.oasisssmarbellafest. tropical salsa artist of all com/ and from December time. A four-time Grammy 20, at midday, the official Award, eight-time Latin sale of the whole tour starGrammy Award and ted. 29-time Lo Nuestro The mayor went on to Awards winner (the say, “we are in talks most of any male), he with hotels in the area has sold more than 12 to finalise agreements million albums worldfor accommodation wide. (Wikipedia) and ticket packages The mayor of San Pedro so that those attenAlcantara, said that, “this is ding the performana festival that has a significes can also enjoy cant economic impact and a few days in the employment generation in area,” adding that, the city. The schedule will “free water points and be expanded and will be more shaded areas will be announced in the coming incorporated in the fesmonths.” tival site next year and Photo: Shutterstock / Debby Wong A representative of the options of food Marc Anthony in Spain, stalls will be increaMARC ANTHONY: Will perform in June. Eduardo Corral said that sed.”

Celebrate

NEW YEAR’S EVE

More info. Tel 619 613 321 info@sohomarketmarbella.com

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EWN 41

Unforgettable memories Magic of Christmas

BOTANICAL GARDENS: Many people went along and enjoyed the Christmas lights.

MIJAS Town Hall wants these holidays to be unforgettable for the senior citizens of the town and wants them to enjoy sharing the best moments. Last week they were able to do so, as 165 Mijeños enjoyed the beautiful Christmas lights that have been installed in the Botanical Garden of Malaga. This is just part of a bigger campaign focused on the elderly this Christmas as more than 1,500 elderly people from Mijas will take part in the activities organised by Mijas Town Hall for the Christmas holidays. There are plans for visits to the International Museum of Nativity Scenes in Mollina, attending the Christmas Concert for the elderly at the Las Lagunas Theatre and further visits to the light and sound show ‘Angelical: The King-

dom of the Angels of Christmas’ in the Botanical Garden. “Our main objective from the council and the Department for the Elderly is to develop as many activities as possible to promote entertainment, companionship and leisure, so in record time we have put together this Christmas agenda for the elderly,” said councillor for the Elderly, Silvia Marín. She went on to explain that, for 2024, the town hall is working on a plan for loneliness. To this end, she stressed the need for collaboration with other administrations and organisations in order to research how many elderly people live alone and how many have an illness that prevents them from accessing activities, “so we can reach out to them”.

UNWRAP the Magic of Christmas with ‘The Del Sol Singers’ Christmas Choir this Christmas Eve at La Sala Puerto Banus. La Sala Puerto Banus are bringing the festive magic this Christmas Eve with an incredible live performance from ‘The Del Sol Singers’ Christmas Choir from 3pm. Led by the talented local voice coach Karen Danzig, join this modern and sociable singing group for a heartwarming journey through festive tunes and harmonious melodies. Make the day even more magical as Santa and his Elf make a special appearance. Bring your little ones for a chance to meet Santa and share their last minute Christmas wishes before he embarks on his busiest night of the year! Visit La Sala Puerto Banus this Christmas Eve to enjoy all day entertainment starting with Amelinde warming up for the choir at 2pm with a delightful mix of soul, rock, and pop.

Followed by Rose Phillipens at 5pm, whose captivating talents promise to add a touch of magic to your Christmas Eve. The celebration continues into the evening with the lively Wall Street Band and DJ Junior D’Acosta to keep the dance-

floor in full swing. Reserve your spot now to ensure you don’t miss the opportunity to be part of the best Christmas Eve in Marbella. Contact La Sala at: reser vations@LaSalaBanus.com or call 952 814 145.

42 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Indulge in the pinnacle of Christmas celebration: Exceptional festivities await at Le Papillon Restaurant & Beach Club!

AS we gear up for the festive season, mark your calendars and prepare to join us for an extraordinary holiday experience! Although we were closed for a well-deserved break, we reopened on Wednesday December 20, just in time for the Christmas and New Year festivities. Immerse yourself in the epitome of Christmas cheer with our outstanding luxury lunch and an unforgettable performance that promises to be nothing short of sensational. Our cherished Stelvis will dazzle you with his remarkable tribute to the legendary Elvis, creating an atmosphere of magic and celebration. Don’t miss the chance to weave enchanting memories during this joyous season as we invite you to

partake in an evening of exceptional gastronomy and top-notch entertainment. Bid farewell to the year with a night to remember! Our exceptional gala dinner boasts an unrivalled menu, accompanied by a live per-

formance that will captivate and mesmerise. Join us in celebrating the arrival of the New Year and raise a toast to an unforgettable night of revelry! The live show featuring Lourdes Adab kicks oﬀ at 9pm, and let’s share a midnight toast together! In our esteemed restau-

rant, we pride ourselves on oﬀering an extensive menu catering to a variety of tastes and preferences, including delectable vegetarian options. Utilising fresh and carefully selected in-

gredients, our culinary team prepares a diverse array of international and Spanish dishes. If you have any allergies or adhere to a speciﬁc diet, kindly reach out to us before placing your order, as your satisfaction and well-being are our top priorities. Join us in creating cherished moments and embracing the spirit of the season. Unwind, celebrate, and welcome the holidays with open arms at our venue. With anticipation building, we were looking forward to reopening, ready to provide an unparalleled festive experience for you, your friends, and loved ones. Cheers to the joyous season ahead!

Contact us by visiting our website www.restaurantepapillon.com or visit us at Urb Marbesa in Calle Cuesta Correa s/n Marbella or call us on 952 834 113.

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Christmas Carol

ESTEPONA Town Council presents the Family Musical ‘A Christmas Carol’ in the Plaza de Reloj today, Thursday, December 21, at 7.30pm, with free admission. Estepona Town Hall has organised the family musical performed by the company Black Sheep Producciones. It is Christmas Eve, in a cold winter, and Clara receives a visit from her godfather, Uncle Droselmeyer, a mysterious man who hides a magical secret, he tells her about a legend about TO celebrate the end of the year, Torremolinos is holding a ‘Tardevieja’ party in the Plaza de la Nogalera. The party will be held on December 31, from midday to 6pm in the Plaza de la Nogalera and will feature live

magical kingdoms. What Clara doesn’t know is that these kingdoms are not just a legend, and soon an unforgettable journey begins. Join the festive musical fun for all the family in Estepona this Christmas. Black Sheep Producciones was born in 2012 as a need for artistic expression adjusted to current theatrical advances. They are specialists in musical theatre, and revue-cabaret shows.

‘Tardevieja’ party performances by the groups ‘Money Makers’ and ‘Capitán Vinilo’. The ‘tardevieja’ was in-

vented by Valencia’s nightlife sector as a response to the curfews imposed by Spain’s government following the Covid lockdown of 2020. To try and stem the losses to the hospitality sector that resulted from this, Fotur, the Federation of Leisure, Tourism and Gaming of the Comunitat Valenciana, launched a campaign to bring forward the celebrations from the evening to the afternoon during the Christmas and New Year holidays. The curfew left night-time activity limited, but nothing prevented opening during the day if the local councils allowed it. The president of Fotur, Víctor Pérez said at the time: “We have to forget New Year’s Eve. We have to write it off.” And that’s when what became popularised as Tardevieja comes into being: a brunch music party.

FUENGIROLA Town Hall invites residents to the Great Christmas Bonfire to be held on Saturday, December 23. The Plaza de la Constitución will host this event from 8.30pm, which will feature performances by the Pastoral Santa Fe de Los Boliches and the choir of the Hermandad del Rocío who will entertain the gathering with popular Christmas carols. A very special event has been prepared in the centre of Fuengirola so that all residents who wish to celebrate Christmas together can do so in the best possible atmosphere. warm yourselves in front of a large bonfire in the Plaza de la Constitución, around which neighbours can

Bonfire night

Photo: Facebook / Pastoral Santa Fe de Los Boliches

PERFORMING: Pastoral Santa Fe de Los Boliches.

gather to sing carols and celebrate the festivities together. This event has been a great success in previous editions, so for this year it has been decided to include it in the programme of activities that the

THE International Love to Sing Choir after their weekly rehearsals, and the dedicated programming and direction from their musical director Shirley Helleur BA LRAM LTCL, have been proudly fundraising and entertaining the community since 2017, with performances along the Costa del Sol, helping to raise awareness and funds for some very deserving charities. During 2023 the choir have helped raise over €6,500 for charities in the area and are ready to start their programme for 2024. If you are interested in hosting a charity or private event please contact them as soon as possible in order to guarantee a date. The choir sings a varied repertoire of popular pop, rock and choir tunes ranging from The Beatles, Queen, Adele, Abba, Bert Baccarach to musical tunes from Mama Mia, The Jersey Boys and Les Misérables, plus many more - so there is always something for everyone. If you are a singer that can read music or

town hall is preparing for this Christmas season. One-hundred chairs will be set up for the comfort of the attendees, there will also be a free tasting of chocolate and churros for everyone.

Love to Sing

Photo: Facebook / Love2Sing xxx fundraising and entertaining. Proudly

have experience in singing in a choir and are interested in joining, the choir will be holding an open evening on Wednesday January 24 at 7pm at their weekly rehearsal at Villa Matilde, Avda Leopoldo Aras Clarin in Manilva. Please contact them via their Facebook page: @Love2SingCDS or email: love2sing manilva@gmail.com or call Maggie on : +34 628 163 977.

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Zoco Home Charity Christmas Market ON Saturday December 16, the upmarket home furnishings store, Zoco Home, held their charity Christmas Market, next to their shop in Mijas, Malaga. The live music could be heard from the street as everyone got close to the venue, with a festive and fun atmosphere meeting visitors at the entrance. Right at the front on a grand stage, singer Barbara Pereda performed live, donning a cute Christmas jumper and sparkly skirt! The event began at 10am, and by 11am even the staff were singing and dancing along to the music, in their matching festive uniform. Many stalls were set up within the Christmas market, including Los Pinares Viveros, Bodegas Malvajio, Ole mi Pepe, Kaas & Kirkemann, The Workshop, Villa Carmen Bees, Ponle Guapo, CBD Rocks where all in attendance could find unique Christmas gifts. There was also delicious food on offer, provided by local establishments Banana Kitchen and Cake Emporium. Euro Weekly News spoke to Alberto Garcia, marketing manager of Zoco Home in Mijas who explained to us that “it is really important to us to promote local businesses. We want to help the community,

Dream team! Jorje from Cudeca, Alberto from Zoco Home and his staff!

and not just those in need, but also local companies like ourself.” This charity Christmas market was in collaboration with ‘Cudeca’, a local hospice that cares for and offers specialised palliative care to patients living in the province of Malaga, who suffer from cancer and other illnesses, in an advanced and terminal phase. They also offer support and comfort to their families. Santa Claus sat cheerfully next to the Zoco Home Christmas tree, meeting excited children and taking photos with them. There was also a ‘Christmas list’ workshop stand, where the younger guests wrote their letters to Mr Claus, as well as creating

some fabulous decorations. “This is our aim behind today,” explained Mr Garcia, “to bring families together, to enjoy a fun day, as well as supporting an incredibly important cause. We have been working with Cudeca for many months, organising various activities to help raise money, culminating in this Christmas Market.” He concluded that “the event has been a great success, and we will be sure to repeat it next year, as well as continuing with ongoing help for the local community and charities.”

Winter Wonderland MUELLE UNO in Malaga is the location for Winter Wonderland, a Christmas market with eight exclusive brands related to Christmas that will be open until January 7, every day from 10am until 10pm. Winter Wonderland fuses the best of Christmas with one of the most emblematic spaces in Malaga, Muelle Uno, creating a magical and very sweet atmosphere, perfect to enjoy Christmas shopping with the family. In this ﬁrst edition there are stalls with great products including: Cabraline Cheese, which will bring one of the best cheeses in Malaga; La Mesa Malaga, with its culinary experiences; Floristería Capricho with Easter trees, centrepieces and decorations for the Christmas tree; Pepe Pinreles with his legendary socks; Socina, with

its Christmas tree decorations, candles and incense to decorate the table; Penélope Banús with the latest trends in winter cashmere clothing; Juguetería Aprendia, with a wide variety of original toys and Christmas books and, finally, La Pinocha Chocolates with a wide range of chocolates and Argentinian alfajores. In addition to the brands, the market will have free and open-access children’s workshops for the little ones, which will be held in the same space two days a week with different activities for up to 540 children. Winter Wonderland is the perfect opportunity to live a different experience with children, friends or your partner and get into the Christmas spirit while enjoying the best views on the seafront at Malaga.

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A Christmas Carol

THE Vera+Cruz Estepona Music Band will perform today, Thursday December 21, at 7.30pm, in the Plaza del Reloj of Estepona, the concert ‘A Christmas Carol’, inspired by the highly successful work by Charles Dickens. For this occasion, the musical group of the Real y Antigua Hermandad del Santísimo Cristo de la Vera+Cruz, directed by Juan Carlos Ocaña Muñoz, will be joined by the theatre group of the Coordinadora ‘Barrio Vivo’ of Algeciras, and the pipers of the ‘Gibraltar Sea Pipe Band’. We travel to a Christmas at the end of the 19th century, where we will meet our main character, Mr Ebenezer Scrooge, a stingy, grumpy and lonely man who does not like Christmas and leads a solitary and workaholic lifestyle. As Christmas approaches and, after tur-

ning down his nephew’s invitation to join his family for Christmas Eve dinner, Scrooge is visited by three ghosts; one shows him his past, another his present and the last one what his future will be like. Will these three ghosts be able to touch his heart and make him change? With a story full of tenderness, humour, irony and the sharp social criticism that is characteristic of all Dickens’ literature, ‘A Christmas Carol’ is a jewel of universal literature that seems to be tailor-made for our unjust 21st century society, maintaining intact, 150 years later, its capacity to move and thrill. An event for all the family to enjoy just a few days before Christmas. Children who come to the concert dressed up as fairy tale characters will be given a free fairy tale book by Urbanos Libros.

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Ladies who brunch AN exciting networking brunch event in Marbella is set to launch at La Sala Puerto Banus aimed at bringing together like-minded entrepreneurs and professionals in a vibrant and supportive atmosphere: ‘Ladies Who Brunch’. Taking place on Wednesday, January 10 at 10.30am, this unique event promises an unforgettable experience for the ladies of Marbella, providing an opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and promote businesses over a delicious two-course brunch at the popular restaurant and bar in Marbella.

Photo: Shutterstock / Pressmaster

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NETWORKING EVENT: Attendees can expect a warm welcome.

For just €22 per person, attendees will be treated to a delightful two-course brunch menu, including a glass of bucks fizz and coffee. The menu kicks off with a refreshing seasonal fresh fruit platter, followed by a choice of smashed avocado with poached eggs or a classic full English breakfast. Adele, the owner of Angel Clothing, has meticulously organised this event with the aim of fostering a supportive community of female entrepreneurs and professionals in Marbella. Adele believes in the power of collaboration and networking to inspire and drive success. “Ladies Who Brunch is more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity for the women of Marbella to connect, share experiences, and empower each other. We want to create a space where bu-

siness relationships flourish, and new opportunities unfold,” said Adele. In addition to the delightful brunch, attendees can expect a welcoming and inclusive environment designed to encourage meaningful conversations and the blossoming of lasting connections. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your professional journey, Ladies Who Brunch is the place to be on Wednesday, January 10. Tickets are limited, so don’t miss this chance to join an exclusive gathering of ambitious and inspiring women. Secure your spot today and prepare to brunch, connect, and thrive. For more information about this ladies networking event in Marbella contact La Sala at: reser vations@LaSalaBanus.com or call 952 814 145.

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Roscón de Reyes route establishment will give the customer a Roscoporte, which must be filled in with the name of the favourite roscon, as well as some basic information such as name, surname and telephone number. The Roscoporte must be deposited in the same establishment or at the Events

Delegation of Torremolinos Town Hall. Following the Three Kings’ Parade, the favourite roscones will be counted and the establishment with the best Roscón de Reyes of the year will be chosen. The participating establishments in Calvario are La Sureña Torremolinos, Pana-

dería El Calvario, Panadería Francisco, La Panadería, Panadería ReyPan, Pastelería Polichinela and Pastelería Castillo. In the Centre, Panadería San Francisco, Granier Torremolinos, Panadería Pastelería Alto Pavía, El Molí Pan y Café, Panadería Polvillo Centro and Dulcypan. In Playamar La Tahona de Playamar and Panadería MijasPan. In La Carihuela Granier la Carihuela and in El Pinillo Casa Kiki.

Inclusive Parade

THE great Three Kings’ Parade of Alhaurin de la Torre will be on Friday, January 5. As well as the novelty of having a completely different route through the town, this year will also be the most inclusive parade to date thanks to the agreement between the town hall and the specialised centre Cometea. Children with autistic spectrum problems and other needs and their families will be able to enjoy this special day. This inclusive parade, whose motto is ‘Let the magic be for everyone’, was explained by the councillor responsible for Festivities and Tourism, Andrés García; the area technician, María Cañete; the councillor for Social Affairs and Equality, María del Carmen Molina; and those responsible for Cometea Centre, Rocío López and Clara Muñoz. Within the long route that has been planned for the parade, an important area of the Avenida Cristóbal Colón will be marked out so that all the children and their families

Photo: Alhaurin Town Hall

A TOTAL of 17 establishments are taking part in the second Roscón Route, which will take place until January 5 in Torremolinos. The roscon is a sweet bread-based ring-shaped dessert typical of Spanish cuisine and traditionally eaten to celebrate the Three Kings. Customers will be able to buy the roscones and vote for their favourite in the Roscoporte. When buying the roscon, the

euroweeklynews.com II SOCIAL SCENE

COMOTEA: Let the magic be for everyone.

who so wish can have a space for themselves. In addition, the music of the floats, parades and participating groups will be reduced by 70 per cent when passing through this area and the sweets will be thrown from below, not from above, to protect the children. To be able to enjoy this area, those interested should write an email to centroco metea@gmail.com and they will receive a link for registration. The head of Fiestas, Andrés García, thanked the role of Cometea Centre, which gave the idea to the council, and they were delighted to accept it because, “this fur-

ther enhances” our parade and confirms that in Alhaurin de la Torre, “we are always committed to total inclusion,” he said. The heads of Cometea invited all families with children with special needs to sign up and enjoy this great activity in a safe and comfortable way. The organisers recommend that parents who attend the parade, if their child has hypersensitive hearing, to wear helmets in case the noise bothers them at any time. If the child finds it difficult to do new things or go to new places, they should be shown videos of what the parade is about.

SOCIAL SCENE II euroweeklynews.com

Nile Rodgers MUSIC icon Nile Rodgers will perform at the ESH Arena Gibraltar on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, Gibraltar promoters Gibmedia and Word of Mouth have announced. For online ticket sales see buytickets.gi - the ticket pre-sale started on Tuesday, December 19 and the full ticket sale starts in January. Ticket prices start at just £35 for reserved seating with a range of prices all the way up to £250 for the VIP package. Nile Rodgers is a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee and a multiple Grammy Award winning songwriter, composer, producer, arranger, and guitarist. In 2023 he became the

NILE RODGERS: Performing in Gibraltar.

first creator to be awarded a Lifetime Achievement Grammy for his legacy in the same year as being awarded a Grammy for his new work with Beyoncé on the smash hit ‘Cuff It’. As the co-founder of CHIC, Nile pioneered a musical language that generated chart-topping hits like ‘Le Freak’, the biggest selling single in the history of Atlantic Records and sparked the advent of hip-hop with ‘Good Times’ and ‘Rapper’s Delight’. His work in The CHIC Organisation, including ‘We Are Family’ for Sister Sledge and ‘I’m Coming Out’ for Diana Ross, and his productions for artists such as David Bowie (‘Let’s Dance’), Madonna (‘Like A Virgin’) and Duran Duran (‘The Reflex’), have sold more than 500 million albums and 100 million singles worldwide. In 2001 in the wake of 9/11 Nile co-founded the We Are Family Foundation (WAFF) at first to bring everyone together following the tragedy to start the healing process. It quickly evolved into an organisation dedicated to the vision of a global family by creating and supporting programmes that promote cultural diversity while nurturing, mentoring, and amplifying the vision, talents and ideas of young people who are positively changing the world.

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50 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023

euroweeklynews.com II SOCIAL SCENE ADVERTISING FEATURE

Hotel Carmen, La Cala de Mijas

SITUATED in a high-quality beach resort close to all the amenities is this family-run hotel and at the best price. Just 100 metres from the beach, you’ll find a family-friendly and welcoming hotel located 38 km from the city of Malaga and 20 km from Marbella. Newly built, the hotel in La Cala de Mijas is designed with top-quality materials to ensure guest comfort. They offer bright, fully equipped rooms with air conditioning, refrigerator, LED flatscreen TV, free WiFi, parquet flooring, bathrooms with shower and bathtub, large windows with balconies, and more. The rooms cater to your budget and needs: with sea views, twin beds, double bed, furnished terrace, and more. Additionally, the hotel has a cafeteria where guests can enjoy all food services. In this hotel in La Cala de Mijas, you’ll not only find the warmth of the sun, the gentle sea temperature, and its golden sand. For those seeking more, the town is surrounded by a variety of places and activities of interest. Play golf at La Cala Resort or La Noria

HOTEL CARMEN: A fully equipped hotel.

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AutoCaravan.Co: Your gateway to unforgettable motorhome adventures

MOTORHOMES: A diverse range of vehicles, bringing you over 35 years of expertise.

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For those seeking adventure on the open road, AutoCaravan.Co invites you to visit autocaravan.co today. Explore the perfect motorhome for your next journey and indulge in the joys of the open road with AutoCaravan.Co, located at Park Perales, Av. Los Perales, 8, 29651 Las Lagunas de Mijas, Málaga, just 25 minutes from the airport. Simply type ‘Park Perales’ into Google Maps for the exact location or call +34 639 938 000. With their rates being the lowest, there’s no better time to enjoy Andalucia in the comfort of AutoCaravan.Co’s top-of-the-range vehicles. Cheers to a year of making dreams come true on the road with AutoCaravan.Co!

52 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023

euroweeklynews.com II HEALTH & BEAUTY HAVE you ever considered transforming your daily walk into a full-body workout? Nordic walking, a Finnish invention from the 1930s, has evolved into a popular fitness trend across Spain, offering a more effective alternative to traditional walking for weight loss and overall health. Originally developed as off-season training for cross-country skiers, this exercise involves walking with poles similar to those used in skiing. The essentials for Nordic walking include two poles, sturdy walking shoes, and sports attire made of light, breathable materials for temperature regulation. Practising Nordic walking engages the body’s upper muscles, thanks to the use of walking poles. This technique results in a 40 per cent increase in energy expenditure compared to regular walking. Its low impact on joints, combined with its adaptability for all ages and fitness levels, makes it a universally accessible form

Fancy footwork Nordic walking on the beach.

Credit: Jacek Chabraszewski/Shutterstock.com

of exercise. British health authorities have recognised Nor-

dic walking as a beneficial activity for strengthening bones and muscles and im-

proving balance. Scientific studies support these claims, noting its effectiveness in preventing chronic diseases and aiding in weight loss. Beginners should focus on maintaining a steady walking pace without lengthening their stride, to protect their joints. As you gain speed, coordinate your arm movements to complement your stride.

Health tests SOMETIMES we forget to pay the required attention to our health thereby forgetting to perform routine health checks. In our clinic not only will you find the best health care professionals who can help you with this, but they will also help you obtain results quickly. You will find the best professionals and the fastest results. Don’t leave it any longer, if you were thinking about visiting a specialist, call

us and let’s schedule an appointment for you! Avenida de España 20, Local 5, Sitio de Calahonda, Málaga. +34 952 933 377

HEALTH & BEAUTY II euroweeklynews.com

Top tips for the cold season

WINTER’S arrival often brings the challenge of maintaining good health in the face of chilly temperatures and increased indoor activity. Here are the best health tips to keep you hale and hearty during the frosty months. 1. Immune Support: Boost your immune system by consuming a diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Foods high in vitamin C and zinc, like citrus fruits and leafy greens, are excellent choices. 2. Stay Hydrated: Cold weather can reduce the urge to drink water, but staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining health. Warm teas and broths can be comforting and hydrating options. 3. Regular Exercise: Maintain a regular exercise regimen. Physical activity boosts the immune system and helps fend off the winter blues. 4. Adequate Sleep: Prioritise sleep to allow your body to repair and fend off infections. Aim for 7-9 hours each night. 5. Flu Vaccination: Get vaccinated against the flu to protect yourself and

Credit: Jacek Chabraszewski/Shutterstock.com

Self care is essential during the Winter months.

those around you. 6. Skin Care: Protect your skin from dry, harsh weather by moisturizing regularly and using sunscreen on sunny winter days. 7. Mental Health: Pay attention to your mental health. Shorter days and less sunlight can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), so consider light therapy or professional help if needed.

Soothe festive feasting POST Christmas indigestion, a common aftermath of festive feasting, can be managed with simple, effective strategies. Hydration is crucial; water facilitates digestion and flushes out excesses. It’s best consumed slowly to prevent bloating. Portion control is key. Opt for smaller, balanced meals rather than large portions to ease the digestive process. Incorporate fiber-rich foods to maintain digestive health. A gentle walk or light exercise can stimulate digestion and reduce the sluggishness associated with overeating. Fresh air and movement are beneficial for both body and mind. Herbal teas, particularly peppermint or ginger, can soothe an upset stomach. These natural remedies are comforting and aid in digestion. For persistent discomfort, over-thecounter remedies like antacids or digestive enzymes can be helpful. However, consult a healthcare provider for appropriate advice. Remember, mindful eating during the holidays can prevent overindulgence. Slow down, savor each bite, and pay attention to your body’s signals to enjoy the festive season without digestive woes.

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54 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023 AS the chilly evenings set in, many reach for a glass of mulled wine, not just for its warmth but also for its potential health benefits. This festive beverage, steeped in tradition, is often infused with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, alongside citrus fruits, which may offer more than just flavor.

euroweeklynews.com II HEALTH & BEAUTY

The warmth of mulled wine Spiced to Perfection: The spices in mulled wine contain antioxidants, believed to combat oxidative stress and inflammation. Cinnamon, for instance, is linked to blood sugar regulation, while cloves have antimi-

crobial properties. A Heartfelt Sip: Moderate consumption of red wine is often associated with heart health due to resveratrol, a compound found in grape skins that may improve blood flow

and cholesterol levels. A Balancing Act: However, it’s important to consume mulled wine in moderation. The added sugars and alcohol content can negate its health benefits when overindulged. Conclusion: Enjoyed responsibly, mulled wine can be part of a cozy, heal-

th-conscious lifestyle during the holiday season. Its traditional spices and red wine base provide modest benefits, making it more than just a festive indulgence.

Enjoy everything in moderation.

Your signature scent SELECTING the perfect perfume is a deeply personal journey, as it reflects your personality and style. Here’s a guide to help you find the right fragrance that resonates with you. Perfumes consist of top, middle, and base notes. Top notes are the initial scent, middle notes form the heart of the perfume, and base notes are the longer-lasting aromas. Familiarise yourself with these to understand how a perfume evolves over time. Perfumes come in different concentrations like eau de parfum (EDP) and eau de toilette (EDT). EDPs have a higher concentration of fragrance oils and last longer, whi-

le EDTs are lighter and suitable for everyday wear. Whether you’re drawn to floral, oriental, woody, or fresh scents, choose a fragrance that aligns with your personality. Floral and fresh scents are great for a vibrant, energetic persona, while oriental and woody notes suit a more mysterious and grounded character. Always test the perfume on your skin rather than on a paper strip. Your skin’s chemistry affects how a perfume smells. Remember, the right perfume can be a powerful extension of your individuality. Take your time exploring and enjoy the process of finding the scent that speaks to you!

HEALTH & BEAUTY II euroweeklynews.com

21 - 27 December 2023

Essentially men Credit: Shutterstock/ TrustWolverines

ESSENTIAL oils are carving into your skincare routine frankincense and bergaa niche in men’s wellness can enhance skin health mot in the evening can and grooming, offering significantly. help in relaxation and imnatural benefits beyond Beard maintenance be- prove sleep quality. traditional products. The- nefits from oils like sanIncorporating essential se oils cater to various dalwood and argan, which oils into daily life not only needs, from skin care to condition and soften fa- elevates grooming routimental well-being, in a cial hair, while cedarwood nes but also contributes simple, effective manner. promotes growth and to overall well-being, offePeppermint and eu- health. ring a holistic approach to calyptus oils are perfect Using essential oils like men’s health. Remember for mental rejuvenation, providing clarity and focus, while lemon oil serves as a stress reliever. Diffusing these in your workspace or home can create an energising atmosphere. For skin care, tea tree oil is a standout, tackling acne with its antibacterial properties. Lavender oil soothes skin irritations and aids in healing. More men are using essential oils for their grooming and health Integrating these needs.

Simple swaps

With these substitutions your Christmas dinner can be both healthy and tasty.

prisingly creamy and satisfying. Roast your vegetables in olive oil instead of butter to cut down on saturated fats. Sweet potatoes are a fantastic substitute for regular roast potatoes, offering a similar texture with fewer carbs and more fiber. And finally, for dessert, opt for a fruit-based dessert like baked apples or a pear tart and bake pies with a nut-based crust and sweeten them with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. If you crave something traditional, modify your recipes by reducing sugar and using whole grain flours. Shutterstock / Magdanatka

AS the festive season approaches, many of us look forward to indulging in the traditional Christmas dinner. However, this feast often comes loaded with calories and unhealthy ingredients. The good news is, with a few smart swaps, you can enjoy a healthier yet equally delightful meal. Begin with the main course. Instead of a butter-basted turkey, try a herb-marinated turkey breast. This cut is leaner and the herbs add a burst of flavour without extra calories. Swap out creamy mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower, a low-carb alternative that’s sur-

to use them properly, diluting as necessary, and consult a healthcare provider for sensitive skin or specific health conditions.

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euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE/NEWS

When the going gets easy LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT Well, it’s all coming apart isn’t it? Trying to remain positive and retain some degree of optimism through all the doom and gloom is becoming more difficult by the day. And the whinger’s don’t help. The moaners and groaners are everywhere. Priorities have gone completely haywire. Celebrities, who earn more in a fortnight than many people can hope for in years, have yet again been bewailing the fact that they failed to digest the testicles of some animal or another. Uncontrolled numbers of illegal immigrants, searching for benefits and free accommodation, continue to pour in. Despite the recent Rwanda decision; basically the floundering politicians are still at a complete loss what to do about it. It does truly make you feel it’s all going completely to pot! Of course the climate change brigade just loves its public to worry; it keeps them in their jobs.

Their latest technology objective is ‘carbon capture’, which entails the storing of the toxic CO2 emissions underground. One of the biggest polluters Exxon Mobil, has dived headfirst into the support of this one; their motivation? Because by appearing to ‘care’ they can continue business as usual - drilling extracting and polluting toward a juicy 2 trillion dollar market expansion by 2040! The trouble is that so called progress has made it all too easy. Even in the light of indisputable climate change, the ever increasing complacency among the masses, particularly the young is almost beyond belief. The age of technology has led the present generation to suppose that all the nation’s problems can be settled at the press of a button. ‘Nanny State’ attitudes have raised the public’s sense of entitlement to unprecedented levels, while getting something for nothing has become an acceptable mode of existence. Many great civilizations have peaked and subsequently foundered when the going got too easy. I came across a statement by one Sheik Ras-

hid, the founder of Dubai, which actually hit the nail decisively on the head. When asked about the future of his own country, he replied; ‘my grandfather rode a camel, my father rode a camel, I ride a Mercedes, my son rides a Landrover and my grandson is going to ride a Landrover; but my great grandson will have to ride a camel again. You have to raise warriors, not parasites. Past civilizations were not conquered by external enemies, they rotted from within’. He went on to observe. ‘The greatest Western generation consisted of eighteen year old kids storming the beaches of Normandy and now, two generations later, the young people want to hide in safe rooms when they hear words that hurt their feelings. The sheik went on to astutely remark that ‘hard times create strong men, strong men create easy times, easy times create weak men and weak men create difficult times’. So, in the light of all that folks, all I can declare is -The camels are on the horizon! Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

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

Flake watch

Locations for the Met office to determine if it is a white Christmas has expanded.

Image: Evgeny Atamanenko / Shutterstock.com

CHRISTMAS and snow go hand in hand for many, with iconic references in Bing Crosby’s classic tune and picturesque scenes on movies, advent calendars, and Christmas cards. The Met Office, entrusted with defining a white Christmas in the UK, adheres to a charmingly simple criteria: the sighting of a single snowflake falling within the 24-hour window of December 25. In the past, the honour of determining a white Christmas was reserved for a solitary location, the Met Office building in London. However, as interest in betting on this wintry spectacle grew, the tradition expanded its hori-

zons. Now, the roster includes diverse sites such as Buckingham Palace, Belfast (Aldergrove Airport), Aberdeen (Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen FC), Edinburgh (Castle), Coronation Street in Manchester, and the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff. Christmas in the United Kingdom marks just the onset of the snow season. Statistical trends reveal a higher likelihood of snowfall between January and March rather than in December. On average, December experiences 3.9 days of snow or sleet, while January sees 5.3 days, February boasts 5.6 days, and March records 4.2 days.

FEATURE II euroweeklynews.com ADVERTISING FEATURE

Neater Heaters - a model that will suit anyone

NEATER HEATERS: Extremely stylish and practical.

OVER many years Neater Heaters have become the first choice of many expats living in Spain. Behind our stylish Scandinavian designs are a modern state-of-the-art convector heater that can match any on the market for economy and efficiency, and beats all the serious competition hands down on price. The real secret of these heaters is the computer-age technology in the form of extruded aluminium in the construction of the heating element. This material and the design creates a huge surface area for heat transfer, which means more air can be heated for less cost. Neater Heaters use convection principals and are designed so that the electricity you put into the heater is converted to heat as cheaply as possible. When you turn on the heater the element warms up rapidly and heats the air around it, this air rises and draws more cold air into the heater. Because the element is extremely efficient and is designed to have a huge surface area a large quantity of air is heated very quickly. If your room has the correct sized heater, it will take

about 20 minutes to warm up from cold, after which the heater eases off and works at about two-thirds capacity, (depending on various external influences). Our heaters are not only efficient, effective, and economical, but as you would expect from a Scandinavian product, they are extremely stylish and practical. There is a model that will suit anyone, from the BEHA, (Bluetooth option or Wi-Fi option) and the NEO Wi-Fi, so that you can control your heaters easily via a Wi-Fi APP but still being able to control them manually if preferred, or the trendy original style Neo with digital controls and a choice of colours and if you are limited for wall space, then available for purchase are factory designed feet to enable the heater to be freestanding. However, a few years ago we added the NEO Wi-Fi Compact model. This heater shares the design technology and ethos of the current NEO heaters, but it has two differences: It is much smaller in length, thus able to fit into tighter wall spaces, plus this model has the added bonus of a 2.5 kw version as well.

NEATER HEATER DISTRIBUTORS: COSTA DEL SOL CALAHONDA: The Bed Warehouse Spain. Tel. 634 187 700 Heaters also available for purchase at our online shop with free home delivery WWW.NEATERHEATER.ES or Tel. 634 312 171 (WhatsApp available)

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s a m st Chri Credit: Commons/serooskerke2011

SPECIAL

It’s Christmas!

‘Tis the season to be jolly!

FA La La La La, La La La La! Oh it really does feel like Christmas now doesn’t it! Most of the light displays now adorn our town centres, the office has planned the Christmas party, complete with festive jumpers, the kids have all been given their nativity parts (tea towels at the ready) and the local shopping centres, are now playing Christmas songs on repeat. Cute. The modern day Christmas admittedly has little to do with its ancient ancestors, and it is widely agreed that it most probably was not the birthday of our saviour (maybe) Jesus Christ. However, with all the doom and gloom going on in the world, who doesn’t welcome a little bit of festive cheer? Although this holiday

may not be easy for all of us, Christmas is a time to look at the good things in our life, be thankful for family, friends, and cinnamon scented candles, which top tip ... are less than €2 in Mercadona! If you know someone who you feel may be struggling, lend a helping hand, or bring them over for a cuppa. This time of year is about spreading that holiday happiness and of course, sharing what we do have with others less fortunate. Christmas can also be seen as a time to celebrate life, and its ever changing cycles, and whether your Christmas Day feels great, or a bit glum, put a festive jumper on, pull a cracker, and join in arms with the people you’re blessed to have close to you this year.

CDS II euroweeklynews.com

Christmas SPECIAL Credit: Wikipedia Commons - dorotheum

The Christmas tree debate

DECEMBER is here! It’s oﬃcially Christmas, right? Although many would scream “yes!” in response to this, having had their Christmas decorations and tree up since November, others would protest that in fact it is still not the festive period yet. “Every year it seems to start earlier and earlier,” Sara Fox from the UK told Euro Weekly News, “I love Christmas, but even I think it is getting a bit ridiculous,” she admitted. So, when does Christmas actually begin? In Western Christianity, where modern day Christmas originates, the Christmas season is traditionally synonymous with Christmastide, which starts on December 25 (Christmas Day) to January 5 (Twelfth Night or Epiphany Eve), popularly known as the 12 Days of Christmas. However, here in Spain, celebrations start as early as December 22, with one of the main days being on December 24, ‘Nochebuena’ and last until January 6, The Magic King’s Day. That’s a good 15 days of festivities! However, even the lengthy Spanish celebration says nothing of December 1 being the start of Christmas, but try telling that to the cities full of Christmas lights, the shopping centres that look like Santa’s grotto already, and the thousands of people who have already put their

Decorating the tree.

Christmas trees up! Hans Gruber from Germany told EWN that he strictly puts his Christmas tree up on December 24 every year. “That is how we always did it in my family growing up,” he explained, “why would you put it up any sooner, the world has gone Christmas ‘consumer’ crazy!” However, Amy O’Flynn from Ireland told a diﬀerent story, saying “oh I’ve had mine up since mid-November! As soon as Halloween is over that’s it, Christmas time! Why not extend that period of joy? There’s enough bad going on in the world, and my tree brings me happiness.”

Merry Christmas in 15 Languages! HAS your Christmas joy ﬁlled up so high that it is spilling over the top? So much so that you just want to wish the whole world a very Merry Christmas? Well, if so, Euro Weekly News has you covered, well almost. Here is how to say ‘Merry Christmas’ in some languages from around this lovely planet. The obvious, Merry Christmas, English! God jul! That is Norwegian and Swedish. Glaedelig jul! Danish! Hynaa joulua. If you’re from Finland. Gleoilig jol. That’s Faeroese! Juullimi ukiortaasamilu pilluaritsi. Greenlandic, and 10 points if you can pronounce it! Joyeux Noel, the language of love,

French. Feliz Navidad, admit that you sang it to the tune! Home turf, Spain! Frohliche Weihnachten. The jolly Germans. Buon Natale, is in Italian. Wesolych swiat. Polish! S Rozhdestvom Kristovym, if you’re from Russia. Milad majid, is how to say it in Arabic. Souksaan wan Christmas, oh do you recognise a word! That’s in Thai. Finally, Shengdan kuaile xinnian kuaile. Another easy one for us English speakers, Mandarin Chinese! So now it’s time. With your new found multilingual skills, go and let the world know it really is Christmas time!

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Spending at Christmas? SANTA CLAUS is coming to town! A song and idea that makes children from all over the world shriek with glee at the thought of their precious presents on Christmas morning! However, rather than elves at the North Pole making these gifts, the hard work often comes from mum and dad, with many parents even taking on overtime around the festive season in order to be able to afford all their little one’s wishes. So, have things gone too far? Is Christmas now solely based on pricey presents and overworked parents, rather than being a time of remembering sacrifice, loving and sharing? Euro Weekly News spoke to Lisa Grayson, a mother of two young children currently living in the UK. She told us that “oh I go all out at Christmas, I didn’t have much as a kid and so now I want to give mine everything, and if I work hard for it, why shouldn’t I? Who’s to judge me?” When asked around how much she spends in total on presents she responded with, “probably around £1,000, is that a lot?” Child Therapist, Sarah Lee, who is based in the UK and a mother herself, told EWN that she spends around £100 per child at Christmas, and that they do not write a ‘wish list’ to Santa. “I want them to feel special and have a fun day, to enjoy like other children, but to be excessive does not benefit a child at all.”

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Christmas SPECIAL

euroweeklynews.com II CDS

La Flor de Pascua: The Festive Flower

IF you take a look around Almeria, or any Spanish town during Christmas time, one sight you are sure to see is the bright bloom of La Flor de Pascua, The Pascua Flower. Known in English as the Poinsettia, a quarter of all these plants are cultivated in Almeria, where the warm climate allows them to be grown under plastic, without the use of additional heating. But how and when was this tradition born in Spain? The history of this plant at Christmas actually dates back to Mexico, where it is known as ‘Christmas Eve’, and the reason the Pascua flower was linked to Christmas is its natural flowering time, which coincides perfectly with the festive season. This Pascua tends to flower during the month of December. and then take on its bright red leaf colours just in time for Christmas. Its dazzling display amidst the darkness of winter makes it a perfect gift and ornament to brighten homes and churches during the festive period.

The Poinsettia.

Credit: Gobierno de Mexico

It has also acquired a strong symbolism due to the religious roots of Christmas, as its intense red colour is associated with the blood of Christ, and the star shape that its leaves resemble is reminiscent of the Star of Bethlehem. La Flor de Pascua rooted itself in Spanish culture around 30 years ago, when cuttings arrived in the country from Africa, and many farmers in Almeria swapped tomatoes and pe-

ppers for the ornamental plants. Now the province produces around 2.5 million poinsettias every year. The tradition of planting, displaying and giving La Flor de Pascua at Christmas unites people of all nationalities and backgrounds. It is a universal gesture of love and appreciation that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. When you gift this plant, you are sharing the spirit of Christmas.

Myth, mistletoe, romance THE origins of the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe remain shrouded in historical mystery, leaving historians to only be able to speculate. A popular theory regarding when and where this

custom ﬁrst took place is an enchanting story rooted deep in Norse mythology involving Baldur, the Norse god of the summer sun. The story goes that Baldur was haunted by a premonition of his own

demise, plunging him into despair believing that every living thing was out to destroy him. In a bid to protect her son, Frigg, the goddess of love, marriage, and beauty, extracted an oath from all the elements, plants, and animals, pledging not to harm Baldur. Yet, in a fateful oversight, she omitted to secure the same promise from the seemingly inconspicuous mistletoe. Acting on this mistake, Loki, the god of mischief, crafted a poisoned dart from the mistletoe and

used it to fatally wound Baldur, much to the horror of Frigg and the assembled gods. In the aftermath of this tragedy, a divine announcement was made that, in remembrance of Baldur, mistletoe would symbolise love, not death. Mistletoe found its place under doorways, ensuring it would never be overlooked again. The tradition then took a romantic turn in that when any two individuals meet under the mistletoe a kiss will be exchanged in homage to the memory of Baldur.

Christmas SPECIAL Christmas in your country. Sexiest What do you miss most? Santas… Credit: Wikipedia Common

WHO doesn’t remember Christmas as a child. However you celebrated, those memories stay with people for life. From typical traditions of one’s home country to individual family holiday habits, our core Christmas beliefs always grow from our childhood. If you have since left your home country, and now celebrate the festive period in another land, Christmas time may feel a little strange, sort of an ‘anticlimax’. That childhood magic we once felt, made up of those traditions, can perhaps not be satisfied in such a different environment at this time of year. To the typical American, Europe may seem as though it is all quite similar, but Christmas actually differs greatly in each country, with many not even celebrating it on the same date! Euro Weekly News spoke to residents of Spain from various European nations, to see what ‘Christmas feeling’ they miss most from their homeland whilst celebrating in Spain. Cristoph Muller from Germany said that “the first thing that comes to mind is the snow. The freezing weather, before I moved to Spain all I wanted was

s - J Hoover and Son

CDS II euroweeklynews.com

Traditional Christmas.

sun, but at Christmas time I like to feel cold!” Karolina Daktaraite from Lithuania seconded this, laughing that “I can’t believe I miss the bad weather, but I do!” Adding that she also often longs for the typical Lithuanian tradition of “doing magic” on the evening of Christmas Day. “Of course, you can always do these things here in Spain, but it feels nicer somehow when you are doing it in a place where everyone does the same thing together, like a connection.” She also explained that it is diﬃcult to source the food usually eaten in Lithuania at Christmas, here in Spain. Katherine Wright from the UK seemed almost in tears when EWN asked her this question. “Oh, I know this one, the Christmas pantomimes! That was my favourite memory

as a child, and it’s hard to feel in the Christmas spirit without seeing these on Christmas Eve.” Did she really say that? Oh yes she did! After a few conversations with many nostalgic Spanish residents, and the mood feeling a little sombre, Euro Weekly News spoke to a ray of Christmas light, in the form of a man from Sweden, Niklas Soderstrom. His response was quite unique, he stated that “to be honest, traditions, you can always create new ones. It’s family that counts. If I am not with them then yes, I miss them, but when I am with family, it can always be Christmas.” Poetic! What a lovely spirit. What does Christmas in your country look like? What do you miss the most?

HE brings us presents, he’s full of love and kindness, oh, and he has a beard! It’s a triple tick for Saint Nick in our books, but which Hollywood heartthrob played him best? To kick things off, ‘cos we all love a bit of a bad boy, Willie Soke in Bad Santa takes our number three spot. Willie might be a bit of a diamond in the rough, but we can’t help appreciate his Santa-style-smoulder. He might be ‘bad’ in the film but he’s also got a soft spot for bullied children, and that makes his flaws seem a little softer. Coming in second, a super cute female Santa in the form of Anna Kendrick in Noelle. She is just so adorable in this role, bordering on angelic, and her fun and fabulous outfits are the festive frosting on the top. To add to her magic, she ends up saving the day, as well as her brother! Did somebody say girl power? Our number one spot can only go to one Father of all Christmas’, the ultimate decorated daddy, David Harbour in Violent Night. Ok, as the title suggests he does resort to a little violence, but it is definitely warranted (he’s protecting a child) but does it with swagger and style. So, that’s our favourite three, who’s your secret Santa crush?

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Christmas SPECIAL Oh Christmas Tree wonder

THE Rockefeller Christmas Tree in New York City is the ultimate and most recognisable Christmas Tree in the world. The backdrop to so many Christmas movies like the iconic Home Alone 2, it draws an estimated 125 million visitors each year. It is a Norway Spruce, standing at 80 feet tall, covered in 50,000 sparkling LED lights, and topped by a Swarovski crystal star with 70 spikes and three million crystals with LED lighting spots. This immense tree is usually donated and then transported to the centre of New York where it sits as the heart of Christmas until January 13. The first Christmas tree was placed at Rockefeller Center in 1931 by Irish-American workers when they decorated a 20foot balsam fir with strings of cranberry and paper garlands. Over the years the tree has grown with its presence as a symbol of hope and wonder.

euroweeklynews.com II CDS

A Christmas miracle

Credit: Illustrated London News - Christmas Truce 1914

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: Soldiers exchanged gifts.

IT all started on Christmas Eve 1914 on the Western Front. The torrential rain had stopped and frost had begun to settle on the ground, mimicking the appearance of white Christmas snowfall. Silence fell on the usually hectic battleﬁeld, and then something surprising happened. In his life story, Private Albert Moren of the Second Queen’s Regiment recalled that “it was a beautiful moonlit night, frost on the ground, white everywhere. About seven or eight in the evening there was a lot of commotion in the German trenches and there were these lights, I don’t know what they were. And then they sang ‘Silent Night’, Stille Nacht’. I shall never forget it; it was one of the highlights of my life. What a beautiful tune.” The image of German soldiers lighting candles in their trenches and the sounds of their ICELAND’S Christmas is uniquely enchanting, thanks to the Yule Lads - 13 merry but mischievous troll brothers who visit children across the island during the 13 nights leading up to Christmas Day. In anticipation, Icelandic children leave a shoe by their bedroom window, hoping for gifts if they’ve been good, or a potato if naughty.

gentle singing drifting across the killing fields of no man’s land has since become iconic. The German soldiers are then reported to have held up white flags and messages saying ‘don’t shoot’. The British began to feel something akin to ‘Christmas spirit’, and soon the sworn enemies were singing together, trading jokes, as well as the odd jovial insult or two. As the sun rose on December 25, both sides warily popped their heads over the side, to realise that this was in fact not going to be another day of death, but instead, something of a Christmas miracle. Soldiers exchanged gifts in the form of cigarettes and souvenirs, showing pictures of loved ones at home and laughing in their groups with the day finishing off with an afternoon playing football.

Yuletide trolls

Born to troll parents, Gryla and Leppaluoi, and sharing a home with a child-eating Christmas cat, these brothers have stirred imaginations for centuries. Their legend says that starting December 12, each brother takes a turn visiting slumbering children. Stekkjarstaur, the eldest, has a fondness for dairy treats, while Giljagaur, the largest, prefers meaty snacks. Stufur, arriving on December 14, has a penchant for sweet biscuits, followed by spoon-licking Pvorusleikir, who enjoys milk with his spoons. The sweet-toothed Pottaslekikir and yoghurt-loving Askasleikir come next, leaving little trace of their visits. Each brother brings his

own brand of joy. Hurdaskellir, arriving on December 18, creates melodies from the simplest things and enjoys Christmas cookies. The easily confused Skyrgamur often leaves unexpected gifts. Following him is the cheerful Bjughakraekir, who’s pleased with any oﬀering. Then there’s the artistic Gluggagaegir, who adores pancakes and patterns. Gattapefur, known for his keen sense of smell, arrives next, followed by the meat-loving Ketkrokur with his big hook. The ﬁnal visitor before Christmas Eve is Kertasnikir, the candle-eater, who may leave bite marks on candles as a sign of his presence.

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Christmas SPECIAL

Jul tidings from Norway A NORWEGIAN Christmas is called ‘Jul’, with the main celebration held on December 24, known as ‘Julaften’. The snow is falling and the days are short enabling locals more time to enjoy the elaborate festive lights that are on display in cities, villages and houses alike! On Julaften, families get together and eat a traditional Norwegian Christmas meal with the main course consisting of ribbe (pork rib) and pinnekjott (lamb or mutton rib). Although the ribbe has been the main choice for many years, the popularity of pinnekjott continues to grow in modern times. Following the food, traditional carols, including ‘Sa gar vi rundt om en enebaerbusk’, are sung together, and the Christmas tree becomes the centrepiece as to which everyone dances around! It is then time for the children to open their presents, which have been delivered by Julenissen, a short bearded Christmas creature that often wears a red hat and is

Credit: Shutterstock/1131268397

Bergen, Norway, at Christmas.

Norway’s version of Santa Claus. One Christmas Eve tradition in Norway that is particularly unique is the custom of people hiding their brooms. This may seem bizarre to some, but it is many centuries old, and it actually originates from a time when people believed that witches would steal their brooms for a late night joyride!. Even now, in 2023, many Norwegians still practise this tradition, and hide them well, out of

the witch’s sight! Lastly, a real Christmas cracker: Akevitt! This drink, which contains a whopping 40 per cent alcohol, is widely considered a staple item at Christmas in Norway, and is rarely consumed at any other time in the year! So, if you ever decide to visit Norway at Christmas, get ready to participate in all of these historic traditions, oh, and perhaps bring a very big coat! God Jul!

From Brussels with love

THEY are the UK’s answer to marmite, the dreaded, or much loved, Brussels sprout! Britain eats more Brussels sprouts than any other nation in the world, and they have become a staple in one of the most famous English dishes, the roast dinner! Where did they come from? Brussels sprouts were originally grown in Ancient Rome, and were ﬁrst oﬃcially recorded in Brussels, Belgium, where they got their name! They were introduced to Britain in the late 18th century and became very popular as they were easy to grow and packed with vitamins. Why Christmas? One of the reasons that Brussels sprouts are often eaten at Christmas, is because of their proud place in the much loved roast dinner, that is commonly

Credit: Shutterstock/2214673425

They’re ready for Christmas!

eaten on December 25. Another may be the fact that they are easy to grow in winter, actually thriving during this season. An additional aspect to consider, is the time in history that they were ﬁrst introduced to Britain. The end of the 18th century is when modern day Christmas was in its early years, therefore the two may have merged together as popularity for both of them grew. Although they have a reputation for being disliked, with children from

many households wincing at the idea of being forced to “just eat one”, a recent poll by YouGov actually concluded that 62 per cent of British residents found the humble sprout to be quite tasty. Furthermore, they actually came out as Britain’s favourite vegetable (!) in a survey by luxury supermarket chain Waitrose in 2020. So, whatever one’s personal opinion on the controversial vegetable, it seems like without a sprout, they’re here to stay this Christmas.

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COMMUNITY

COMMENTS

AS this is the Christmas edition of the paper and we of course wish all of our readers the very best for Christmas, New Year’s Day and Three Kings we thought it a good idea to ask readers what they have planned as expats (or as some prefer to say immigrants) for Christmas 2023 and this is a sample of the responses we received.

“

We celebrate Christmas usually with my brother and his partner who live next door! However, this year we are going to Mallorca for a week.

My first Christmas as a widower, so I will be having a quiet one. My celebrations are on the 6th January - Epiphany.

Having my neighbours up for Christmas dinner

Maureen Croft Pearson

Christine Smith

Sarah Earnshaw

We celebrate same as always, love Xmas, and it’s a time to be together, family, friends, our pets, & all the hard work is so worth it. Can’t understand anyone saying ‘ it’s just another day’. Be thankful & make the most of a lovely time of the year. Patricia Padgett

Cosy time at home with my lovely husband Maggie Ashley

Well, I am not an expat, but an immigrant. As originally from Austria we celebrate on Christmas Eve, December 24th, with a fantastic family meal (like locals do) at the Restaurante Castillo de San José in Arrecife and handing over presents. 25th does not mean anything in most European countries. We have stunning parades with camellos at Lanzarote for Los Reyes Magos, so this is part No 2 of our Christmas celebrations.

Stephen Proctor

Have a Turkey Christmas dinner with sprouts if can find them Christmas pud all the trimmings at home or a friend’s don’t go out . Not really any different than UK except the weather is much nicer! X Diane Grey

We celebrate all year for no longer living in G.B John Smith (not the EWN John Smith)

With people we love and care about.

Hilary McCann

Christmas Eve at church then on Christmas Day go for lunch at a Spanish restaurant. Have been doing this for eight years. The food is wonderful. Come home late afternoon and watch the Christmas programmes with a glass or two of cava. Shirley Morris

Go back to family in UK for a week

Linda Collins

Just another day in the life

Judith Dominique Wolfenegg

Sue Kiff

I love Christmas. We go to UK for Christmas and celebrate with our UK family. Then we return for the Spanish Christmas and celebrate with our daughter and her Spanish family. We been having two Christmas’s for over 20 years. It’s a win, win.

When in Rome ?¿ Being retired is a holiday everyday if you opt it.

Lisa Hibbert

Walk along the beach in the sun then home to watch English TV Marian Donovan

With friends on 24th Spanish way then 25th English Dennis Bartlett

Tim McMahon

Go to a Spanish family have a great time

Ronald Kelly

Just have Yuletide dinner. Never bother with that churchy stuff Micky Moses Jones

Micky Moses Jones without the Christian ‘Churchy’ stuff, there wouldn’t be Christmas! What’s ‘stuff’ to one is important to another. I think the comment is a tad disrespectful sadly Nicola Cain

Comments should be emailed to yoursay@euroweeklynews.com or make your comments on our website: euroweeklynews.com Views expressed and opinions given are not necessarily those of the EWN publishers. No responsibility is accepted for accuracy of information, errors, omissions or statements.

PETS

euroweeklynews.com • 21 - 27 December 2023 SPONSORED BY

IN an age where convenience and pet care intersect, dog washing machines have emerged as a novel solution for pet owners. These devices, resembling small, pet-sized traditional washing machines, are designed to simplify the often arduous task of keeping our furry friends clean. A dog washing machine operates similarly to a regular wash for clothes. It uses water, pet-safe shampoo, and gentle cycles to clean the dog. This method can be particularly useful for owners with larger breeds or those who struggle with the physical demands of regular dog washing. Safety and comfort are paramount. These

Dog washing machines machines are equipped with features to keep dogs secure and at ease during the wash

cycle. Windows and openings allow pets to see their owners, reducing anxiety,

while water temperature and pressure are carefully regulated to ensure a com-

typically associated with home dog washing. However, the use of such machines is not without controversy. Some animal welfare advocates argue that the experience may be frightening for pets, and emphasize the importance of human contact during grooming.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS POLICE/FIRE/AMBULANCE: 112 24-HOUR PHARMACY FARMACIA BERDAGUER MARBELLA: 952 773 187 CENTRAL FARMACIA LOS BOLICHES: 952 474 238 FARMACIA CAFFARENA MALAGA: 952 212 858 24-HOUR VETS CLINICA VETSUR FUENGIROLA: 952 660 596 CLINICA VETERINARIA MALAGA: 952 358 701 These machines will take the stress out of pampering your pet.

Benji needs a dog-sitter a few times a year BENJI is a working Cocker Spaniel who needs companionship and an active dog-sitter to be with him when his owner goes away. As an active working Cocker he needs at least two long walks a day and a lot of play in between. He’s a playful dog who benefits from a regular daily routine so house-sitting with a resident dog-sitter works best for him. The pet-sitters come for free! If you’re planning a trip in 2024 register now to find pet-sitters in time. Earlier is better than later. Whether your trip is short or long, get organised ahead of time. All pets benefit from staying at home, so they can follow their routines undisturbed. Join our pet and house-sitting network,

fortable experience. The benefits of dog washing machines are multifaceted. They offer a quick, efficient, and often less stressful means of cleaning dogs, especially for those who are less cooperative during bath time. Additionally, they save water and reduce the mess

Benji needs a companion when his owner goes away

and the sitters come for free! Choose Housesitmatch. com for aﬀordable travel, home and pet care. These are the steps to take: 1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch. com 2. Choose a Standard account (£69 per year) to ensure you can help online

when needed 3. Create a proﬁle with photos of your pet and the house 4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose. How does it work? HouseSitMatch can help you ﬁnd suitable sitters. Join our network for a

small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert saying when you are going on holiday. House-sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter who’ll care for your pets. Trustpilot Testimonials 4.9 / 5 Excellent Pure Joy - I have completed two house-sits so far so early days. Both sits have been well suited to me and my dog. Thoroughly enjoyable experiences with beautiful homes and well-rounded animals. I’m looking for more! Lisa Stimpson, Pet-sitter from the UK How do you join? Please register online via our website www.House sitmatch.com.

Need a pet or house-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting can be a win-win for both parties, free house and pet-sitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation! Register as either house-sitter or homeowner with a 20% discount using coupon code 20EWN – Reader exclusive offer. To find a house or pet-sitter go to www.HousesitMatch.com

68 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023 AIR CONDITIONING

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GATES ELECTRIC GATES/Garage Doors. Intercoms/access control systems and replacement remotes. New installs and repairs. For all your electric gate and garage door requirements call us on 605 356 469/952 786 178. The Garage Door Co & 2 Way Gates. tgdc@hotmail. co.uk www.2waygates.com (295956)

GLASS CURTAINS GLASS CURTAIN repairs, specialist in replacement of discoloured plastic strips that act as a seal between the glass panels. Call Julian 655 825 931 (302477)

HANDYMAN HANDYMAN: General Building work, painting, wall/roof waterproofing & other jobs. Call Michael 622 755 666 (304956)

HEATING Fires: Electric, Gas. Quality guaranteed. EnviroCare. All areas covered. 952 663 141 / 670 409759. info@enviro carespain.com www.en virocarespain.com (304164)

74 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023 HOME IMPROVEMENTS

VINYL WRAP VINYL SOLUTIONS WHY REPLACE WHEN YOU CAN RENOVATE? Modern adhesive vinyl coverings in hundreds of styles and designs can renovate a tired kitchen, bathroom, wall panels, bedroom wardrobes, fridge doors. Turn a tired looking wood designed kitchen into a modern solid colour or metallic look without painting or replacing. Work carried out on site with 10 year warranties Contact Ian 644 546 176 for design brochure and samples. (303296)

HOT TUBS AND SPAS HOT TUBS new used, bought, sold, hired. Also move & repairs. Used good Hot Tubs for sale. 691 973 131 / +44 7836 379122 (303337)

HOUSE CLEARANCES ALHAURIN FURNITURE EMPORIUM furniture wanted, same day collection, also house clearance and removals. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071 (303715)

INSURANCE 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.abbeygateinsure.com (291234)

LAWYERS

LOCKSMITHS ENGLISH LOCKSMITHS, SECURITY & SHADE EXPERTS. FREE HOME SECURITY SURVEY. 636 770 865 / 952 660 233 WWW.SECURITYOF SPAIN.COM CONTACT DAREN (303056) T1 ENGLISH LOCKSMITH emergency & appointment, locks changed, patio doors & windows secured. All locks supplied insurance approved. Fast & reliable service. No hidden extras or nasty surprises. 657 466 803 www.a1lock smiths.es (290138)

MASSAGE RELAXING Massage for Men & Couples. Feel free from tension & stress Call Dany 603 202 758 (304789) SAN PEDRO. Sandra. Professional relaxing, tantric massage. Young, slim, work alone, unforgettable moments. Nueva Andalucia. 641 346 278 PURE RELAXATION in Nueva Andalucia with attractive independent masseuse. Tantric and other special massages in private apartment. For gentlemen and couples, with no rush attention to your needs 656 350 401 ENGLISH ELEGANT independent & affectionate lady in late 40s, gives a sensual golfers massage to relieve tension in her discreet private apartment. Satisfaction guaranteed. Call 680 177 569 (304543)

euroweeklynews.com FUENGIROLA - Johanna Brazilian 45yrs Mature Masseur. Relaxing Massages. Best relax guaranteed. Tel: 617.818.615 (296396) LOS BOLICHES - Carolina Pretty Masseur, 45yrs Relaxing Massage, Guaranteed relax - 634.703.111 (296396) BENALMADENA lovely lady, offering you a very relaxing body massage. Call for an appointment 634 209 427 (304260) FUENGIROLA. Japanese Shiatsu & Zen Ki relaxing and therapeutic massage. Excellent service guaranteed. Home Visits. WhatsApp for appointment 693 988 340 (304785) ESTEPONA. Susana, Latin Girl sculptural body, trained for deep relaxing massage. 697 705 304 (FU 2786) AT MY Wellness Massage Studio your first visit will be the first of many. Tel: +34 623 492 262 (304620) JAPANESE massage. Marbella. Relaxing, less stress. 664 177 216 (MI 559) MARBELLA Tantric ritual massage with aromatherapy to leave completely renewed. 642 751 070 (2907) SARA Venezuelan, professional relaxing therapeutic & sensitive massage. I can visit you. For more information contact me 632 770 051 (303021)

MARBELLA CENTRE the ideal place for relaxing massage in the city centre. Available 24h and prices from €50. For reservations and information call 620 366 817. (302600)

BENALMADENA Private Villa: DANIELA from Colombia 19yrs Masseur. New on the Coast. in C/ Imperio Argentina N.1 in Benalmadena. Incalls Outcalls 24hrs. Tel. 679 267 197 (304979)

PROFESSIONAL MALE muscled masseur. Fullbody relaxing, deep tissue and therapeutic massage. In/outcalls. WhatsApp me 607 595 906 (304067)

BENALMADENA: IRINA Russian Masseur, model, slim, Russian, Spanish, English. Incalls & Outcalls 24hrs. Tel. 604 181 157 (304979) BENALMADENA Masseur, massage, jacuzzi, outcalls 24hrs. Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs. Tel. 679 267 197 (304979) BENALMADENA: Maria Colombian Masseur - blond long hair, Incalls & Outcalls 24hrs. Tel. 604 181 157 (304979)

BENALMADENA: Alicia Spanish professional & relaxing Masseur.. Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs. Tel. 679 267 197 (304979) FILIPINA/Thai, exclusive prostatic, deep, hard, soft massage pleasure to body mind therapy, exotic professional relaxation, clean, good atmosphere. Elviria. Marbella. 679 126 231 (MI 574) BOLICHES: Celina Https://celina-16.jimdosite.com. Elegant loving kind lovely delightful lady for educated very discreet, respectable gentleman. Unique relaxing moments, hot sensual massages, private quite place. Enjoy full deep complete, excellent treatment, special attention of your needs and total satisfaction. Demanding impeccable hygiene. Previous appointment 11am/6pm. 622 210 797 (FU 3157) BENALMADENA: Sandra Spanish Masseur and Amalia - duo massage & relaxing. Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs. Tel. 604 181 157 (304979) NEW IN FUENGIROLA I am Daniela, 19 years old, massages and relax. 603 366 841 (FU 3161) ASIAN lady tantric sensory generate self esteem body technique, fantastic relaxation massage Marbella. 671 442 664 (MI 574) SAN PEDRO DE ALCANTARA - Camila Masseur 33, slim, pretty private apartment - 603 804 443 (305010) VANESSA Benalmadena excellent massage services. Relaxing & therapeutic. Home premises. Call me 624 811 098 (304065) NEW IN FUENGIROLA. I am beautiful brunette Luna, treat yourself to massages and relaxation 603 366 841 (FU 3161) ASIAN Touch try something different combination Oriental European, absolutely relaxing massage relief pain stress, luxury place. Marbella. Elviria. 633 705 558 (MI 574) ASIAN MASSUER offers relaxing full body massage. Home Visits. WhatsApp 641 980 066 for details (304011)

FUENGIROLA Centre 3 beautiful girls enjoy with authentic beauties 603 366 841 (FU 3161) OLGA Mature Masseure relaxing & sensitive. Outcalls & Incalls. 24 hrs. Marbella – Tel: 632 467 580 (304040) FILIPINO MASSAGE CENTRE, where hearts of Asian professional massage daily. 604 421 973 (MI 574) NEW VILLA in Fuengirola. 4 masseuses. Total discretion. 632 018 105 (FU 3161) ASIAN PROFESSIONAL Massage, sensual, relaxing & therapeutic, to release tension & stress. Fuengirola. Call 613 592 062 (304091) www.casakinkspain.co m. Heated pool, Jacuzzi and private bar. Inland private retreat with a full massage service. 662 913 428 (FU 3150) ASIAN ladyboy and gay, authentic professional/traditional massage therapy unique treatment, clean atmosphere. Marbella. 603 257 690 (MI 574) FUENGIROLA. Excellent company, massage and more... Blond, tall, pretty lady. In/outcalls 657 697 397 (FU 3139) GENESIS blond explosive masseur, men and women, from Venezuela. 24 hours outcall / incall - visa & amex - Tel. 680 55 614 (304861) COLOMBIAN. Yeraldin, I do massages and something else. I am independent 45 years old I am in Nueva AndalucIa 611 245 461 (FU 3160) CASSIE. Mature English lady. Discreet and clean. Fuengirola. 667 914 732 (FU 3031)

CLASSIFIEDS

SAN PEDRO BEACH. RELAXING AND SENSITIVE MASSEUSES WELCOME YOU IN A PRIVATE AND DISCREET PLACE. YOUNG, PLEASANT. WITH APPOINTMENT. EASY, PRIVATE PARKING. 666 194 079 - 674 679 757. (304868) RELAXING Tantric Sensual Yoni/ Lingam Massage. Genuine trained Male Masseur. Marbella. 602 098 606 (FU 3159) THAI Benalmádena Costa. Body-body full massages. Visits, hotels. Whatsapp 689 387 448 (MI 575) NEW: Crystall Professional Massage, 27 years old relaxing and sensual massages. +34642 751 611 (305109)

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

MOSQUITO SCREENS ACE OF SHADES - Don’t let the bugs get you! Available in enrollable, slider and pleated. Large choice of colours including wood effect. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceof shades.design (101730) MOSQUITO Screens for windows, doors and a high-quality sliding patio door screen. All finishes available. Quick service. All areas covered. Call Julian 655 825 931 (302477) MOSQUITO screens, sliding, pulldown, pleated, colours, call Mosquito Nick 647 072 861 www.mosquiton ick.ws (295855)

MOTORING

BARBARA mature masseur educated 42yrs, private, 24hrs, Marbella. Tel 613 213 030 (304740) CRISTINA and MIA duo masseurs on holiday in Marbella - infall & outcalls 24hrs - visa & amex - Te l . 6 8 0 5 5 6 1 4 (304861) ORIENTAL ladyboy pretty professional traditional, tantric massage relieving. Marbella. 604 428 812 (MI 574)

If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

CLASSIFIEDS

euroweeklynews.com

CAMPER VANS, CARAVANS, MOBILE HOMES, BOATS AND ALL PLANT, DIGGERS, DUMPERS, MOTORBIKES, CARS AND COMMERCIALS WANTED. BEST PRICE PAID, CASH TODAY, ANY REGISTRATION WITH OR WITHOUT PAPERS. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 (290189) CARS, VANS, ANY RESGISTRATION, INSTANT CASH, FINANCE / EMBARGO UK OR SPANISH 685 524 921 (290189) CARS, VANS UK OR SPANISH BOUGHT FOR CASH. FREE COLLECTION IN SPAIN / UK. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 OR 952 669 701 (290189)

21 - 27 December 2023

FOR SALE

WANTED

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

WANTED, wanted, wanted!! All cars, all years, all models… from exotic to classic. Spanish, English, Dutch plated. Call us on 951 977 329 or 606 647 597. (303386)

CAR SERVICES ENGLISH bodyshop, fully equipped, Mijas Costa. No Job Too Small. 952 667 074 (304140)

IMPORT/TRANSFER CARS TRANSFERRED, history checks, Imports and Embargo problems. Change of use and lost papers. Change your car to Spanish plates, simple efficient service. Cars bought and sold. Please call 678808837 or email carsinspain@live.co. uk (290189)

WANTED CARS AND VANS, FREE COLLECTION, SAME DAY 685 524 921 (290189) CARS, VANS BOUGHT WITH / WITHOUT PAPERS. CASH WAITING 678 808 837 (303115) EURO CAR Established since 1998. All Cars / Commercials wanted, runners or no-runners. Cash. Buyer Collects. Transfer included. 605 109 796 (303389) CARS, Vans, Bikes wanted. Any Reg, Anything Considered Call or Whatsapp 687 049 592 (304671) If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

MUSIC DAVID CHRISTIANCLARK PLAYS POPULAR SPANISH GUITAR FOR YOUR EVENT. OVER 30 YEARS PRO EXPERIENCE BACKED BY A DIPLOMA FROM GUILDHALL LONDON. SPECIALISES IN WEDDINGS.ECLECTIC PLAYLIST TAILORED TO YOUR TASTE. REASONABLE RATES BY NEGOTIATION.COVERS GIB TO NERJA.SEE YOU TUBE. ENQUIRIES davechris tianclark@gmail.com (304085)

OTHERS EDS? We have the solution, Kamagra pills & jells, Cialis, Sidenafil, over 7 products for men & ladies, mixed trial packs.Free delivery throughout Costa del Sol. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394

PASSPORT RENEWALS UK & IRISH Passport renewals including photos. Complete Service. Cath’s Cards. 952 885 759. www.cathscards.es (290153)

PEST CONTROL COCKROACHES, ANTS, insects, fleas, mice, rats, wasps, termite specialists. Fumigations, bars, restaurants, houses, etc. Sanitary department officially registered certificates. Serving the coast since 1985. Only legal English owned pest control company on the coast. If you want the best then phone N.P.S. Paul 676 700 370 (303636)

PETS LAGUNAPETHOTEL.COM Loving care for cats and dogs TEL 646 066 351 (302996)

KENNELS CAT & DOG World Kennels and Cattery. 952 112 978 / 630 197 435. www.catanddogworld.com (304722)

PET CHARITY ACE CHARITY ‘El Refugio’ in La Cala de Mijas is a registered charity. We have on average 275 dogs in our care and we receive no help from the town hall or the

Andalucian government. We desperately need foster homes and adoptants for our many dogs, especially the small ones and puppies who do not do well in a big shelter. We are grateful for any help offered, including donations of food and blankets. Visiting times are from 13.00 to 15.00 and you can always turn up or make an appointment by calling Denise on 669 018 736. Our website is www.acecharity.org where you can view all the dogs in our care. (93320) ADANA THE ANIMAL SHELTER IN ESTEPONA. We always need volunteers to walk and socialise with our dogs and help with cleaning. We also need good homes for our animals that you can see on www.adana.es. Kennels open every day 10-1.30, Camino de Casares, near Parque de los Pedregales, Estepona. (5 minutes from the Poligono) For more information call 952 113 467, available from 10.00am until 2.00pm. (93319) ANIMEX Foundation offers free will upgrading when leaving something for abandoned animals. Contact ani mexfoundation@gmail.com or call 692 166 434 now for this absolutely free service (288287) ARCH - The Andalucian Rescue Centre for Horses, registered charity 8448, the Centre is open to visitors every Sunday from 9am until 2pm. Working closely with the Spanish authorities, we rescue, rehabilitate and rehome abused and abandoned horses and donkeys. Come and meet our current rescues, learn about our work and how you may be able to help. Run solely by a small team of dedicated volunteers, the Centre is located between Alhaurin el Grande and Coin in Comm. de Viña Borrego behind Venta Miralmonte. For more information and directions see our website www.horseres cuespain.org, our Facebook page Centro Andalusi de Rescate de Caballos or tel. 610 845 491 or 656 935 613 (93322) SEPE the horse and donkey charity is open to the public at weekends from 10.00 to 5.00. Volunteers are much needed in all departments and are welcome at any time. For our riding for the disabled classes, we are also in need of extra helpers. We

EWN 75

are nationally registered by the Spanish Ministry of the Interior (164640) but only with your support can we give the equine a voice. If you can just commit to 2 or 3 euros a month it will really help make a difference. You can find us at Lauro Golf Equestrian Centre, Alqueria, Alhaurin de la Torre. Tel. 608 258 950 info@sepeonline. net www.sepeonline.net (93321) SOS ANIMAL REFUGE we have dogs, young and old looking for homes. Some of our dogs have been with us for some time and would love to find a cosy spot to curl up in and a knee on which to rest their heads. If you have room in your heart and home we would love to hear from you. We do not put our dogs to sleep - no matter how old, they are safe with us. For day to day needs and to pay for veterinary care, we much appreciate the support we receive. We desperately need items to sell on our market stall to help raise funds and are happy to come and collect. So, if you are having a clear-out, please contact us on 605 227 155. If you would like to know more about rehoming, please call 653 257 875. Visit our website www.sos-animals.org or please phone Sandy on 952 385 923 or 666 814 056 if you would like to make a donation or help in any way. (93317)

PLUMBING PLUMBING. Leak detection & blocked drains. Tel 952 568 414 / 661 910 772 / drainspain.com (296441)

POOLS

PROPERTY WANTED WWW.INTERMARBEL LA.COM Costa del Sol Property Sales & Long term rentals wanted. All areas / All budgets / All types. Spain +34 951 708 422. UK +44 208 144 5008. Email info@intermarbella.com (303052)

76 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023 THINKING of selling your property or interested in a current valuation? We have clients actively looking for properties from Torremolinos to Calahonda. List with us and let us sell your property. Call Joe 626 864 683 (304019)

PROPERTY

PROP MAINTENANCE STARLIGHT Property Cleaning & Maintenance All Areas. Residential & Holiday Lets. Persiana repairs, Decorating, Electrial & Plumbing repairs. 682 636451 www.starlightspain.com (303728)

PROPERTY TO LET WWW.INTERMARBEL LA.COM Costa del Sol Property Long Term Rentals All areas / All budgets / All types. Spain +34 951 708 422 UK +44 208 144 5008. Email info@intermarbella. com (303052) STUDIO apartment, Alhaurin. €250pm. Fully secure. 654 866 393 (305071)

REMOVALS/STORAGE 15 CUBIC metre van returning to the UK 5th January 2024. Space available each way. Tel. 639 928 090 (304200)

MAN AND VAN PROPERTY FOR SALE

MAN & VAN, 20€ ph. Removals, Rubbish & House Clearances. Paul 634 112 677 (294214)

WWW.INTERMARBEL LA.COM Costa del Sol Property for sale. All areas / all budgets / all types. Spain +34 951 708 422. UK +44 208 144 5008 Email info@in termarbella.com (303052)

2 MEN, Van €30 p hour. House Clearances & Storage. 651 081 610 (303336)

SELLING UP?? Why not give us a call and let us give you an honest and realistic valuation of your property. List with us and let us take the stress out of selling your home. No sale no fee!! English agent on the ball with clients waiting. Please call 685 524 921. (290189)

STORAGE, Storage, Storage. Man & Van Services. Call/Whatsapp 690 155 340 (304667)

FOR SALE URBAN PLOT 1200m2. Able to build 3 Houses of 143m2. Good investment in a prominent position Urb Sierra Chica Coin / Malaga. 130,000€ plus taxes. Tel: +34 696 376 454 (304791)

PLUMBERS

moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (295657)

MAN AND VAN removals / storage service. House clearances Collections and deliveries Waste removal NO JOB TOO SMALL Call Mike on 604 380 570 (304093) A&J REMOVALS For all your clearance, delivery and removal needs. Moving never looked so good. Call us on 662534877 (305073)

euroweeklynews.com NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL PROFESSIONAL LOCAL REMOVALS AT AFFORDABLE RATES. 1/2 DAY FROM €90. FULL DAY FROM €175. WE ALSO PROVIDE A FORTNIGHTLY DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE TO UK AND EUROPE (INCL SCOTLAND). WORLDWIDE SHIPPING TO USA, AUSTRALIA, ETC AND FULL STORAGE FACILITIES. TEL (0034) 952 578 507 OR (0034) 637 892 278 / EMAIL garymoveit@yahoo.co.uk (304252) JDS EURO TRANSPORT & REMOVALS - Regular trips throughout Europe. Call or WhatsApp Julian 0044 7884 908 929. See Facebook Page for recommendations (304139) moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (295657)

STORAGE moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (295657)

ROLLER SHUTTERS ACE OF SHADES - PERSIANA (security shutter) electric and manual, various colours available including wood effect, we also offer a repair service. Make your home more secure! Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design (101730)

SOLAR SOLAR Hot Water heating: FREE HOT WATER. 28 years installation history in Spain. Envirocare. All areas covered. Quality guaranteed. 952 663 141/ 670 409 759 info@envirocares pain.com www.enviro carespain.com (304164)

SOFT FURNISHINGS CURTAINS, blinds, cushions and much more. Free estimates and home visits. Tel 657 369 343 or rosan nacarmella8@gmail.com (304143)

SPECIALTY SERVICES 3 IN 1. Nurse 17 years experience, Cleaner, Home help. English / Dutch speaking. Limited slots available €30 per hour. WhatsApp or Call 690 849 277, 24 hours (304638)

SWIMMING POOLS POOL MAINTENANCE, & Repairs, including heaters & regrouts. Friendly & reliable service. Malaga to Estepona & inland areas. 678 791 495 / 951 536 389 www.sparklenripple.net (303027)

ROLLER shutter repairs, 7 days a week, conversion from manual to motorised, new installations. All areas covered. Coast and inland. 655 825 931 (302477)

If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

SWIMMING Pool Heating Pumps, Pool Covers, Rollers, Filtration Systems. 28 years installation history in Spain. Envirocare. All areas covered. Quality Guaranteed. 952663141 / 670409759 info@envi rocarespain.com www.envirocarespain.co m (304164) POOL MAINTENANCE & repairs. Special Winter Maintenance offer for Dec / Jan / Feb /Mar. Call NOW for more info 603 312 588 (304816)

TRANSLATORS OFFICIAL TRANSLATIONS All Languages. 952 789 204 Mobile 654 613 094 sanpedrotranslations@gmail. com (304238)

TV / SATELLITE TV REPAIRS to TV’s, LCD, LED, -Videos, Hi-Fi, & Microwaves, Mag Boxes, UK channels installed. 35 years experience. Free Estimates, Can Collect. John 952 491 723 or 600 706 201. (304824)

UPHOLSTERY ADVANCED Cleaning Services. Professional carpet and upholstery cleaning, 28

SOLAR PROTECTION

CLASSIFIEDS

years experience, wet/dry clean. Honest, reliable. 678 808 837 / 952 669 701 acservs@outlook.com (290189) UPHOLSTERY including leather cleaned also carpets. 685 524 921 (290189) CARPETS AND SOFAS cleaned. Reliable, fast service. Family run. Cleansol 952 930 861 / 607 610 578. 10am - 10pm 7 days, all areas Discount Code: EWN 1 CLEAN (206437)

WATER HEATERS ELECTRIC & Gas Water Heaters. Quality Installations. 28 years installation history in Spain. EnviroCare. All Areas Covered. 952 663 141 / 670 409 759 info@envro cares pain.com www. envirocarespain.com (304164)

WINDOW TINTING

78 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023

The forgotten brand ros Foundation, recently shared insights into her father’s legacy on a National news outlet. Eduardo Barreiros was born in a small Galician village in 1919 and began his journey in a modest Ourense workshop. His mission was was an ambitious one, to transform gasoline engines into more

economical diesel variants. Despite experts deeming it impossible, Barreiros succeeded, converting nearly 2,000 trucks to diesel. This breakthrough led to the establishment of a small factory in Villaverde, Madrid, starting with just seven employees. It eventually expanded into a two million square metre industrial giant, manuCredit: Spanish Coches/Creative Commons Attribution 2.0

THE remarkable story of Eduardo Barreiros, the Spanish equivalent of Henry Ford, demonstrates how a single visionary can transform a nation’s automotive landscape. In 1954, Eduardo Barreiros laid the foundations of an industrial empire that would revolutionise Spanish mechanics and automotive industry for over two decades. Barreiros engines became a ubiquitous presence across Spain’s roads and factories from 1954 to 1978. Mari Luz Barreiros, his daughter and the president of the Barrei-

euroweeklynews.com II MOTORING

Barreiros-built Dodge Dart.

facturing 40 per cent of the country’s trucks. In its time, the Barreiros company created 25,000 direct jobs and 100,000 indirect jobs and built cars, trucks, forklifts, vans and boat engines. Barreiros’ success, howe-

ver, was not without obstacles. The National Institute of Industry (INI) during Franco’s regime posed significant challenges. ‘Anyone who tried to create a company, raise their head, they did not consent to it,’ Mari Luz remarked, rejec-

ting the label of ‘Diesel of the regime’ often attributed to the company. A turning point came when Barreiros won a competition to supply trucks to the Portuguese army, outperforming giants like Mercedes and even towing a General Motors prototype. The story of Eduardo Barreiros is not just about industrial success but also about humanity.

Navigating Spain’s MOT

EVER wondered about the intricacies of Spain’s vehicle inspection process? The ITV, is a mandatory check-up for all vehicles on Spanish roads, ensuring legal and safe operation. Recently, the Guardia Civil and the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) highlighted the essential information about ITV. They aimed to clarify common queries about this vital safety procedure. Contrary to popular belief, the vehicle’s owner needn’t be the one to take it for the Technical Inspection. The ITV states there are no specific rules about who should present the vehicle at the service station. This flexibility means a family member, friend, or even a professional service can take on this task. According to the DGT,

new vehicles are exempt from the ITV until they turn four years old. For instance, a car bought in December 2023 would need its first Technical Inspection in December 2027. However, any significant modifications, such as the installation of tinted windows, require an earlier inspection to approve the changes. The DGT strictly prohibits driving with an expired ITV, even if an appointment is scheduled after the appointment has expired. They consistently campaign on social media, stressing the dangers of skipping the ITV. Not only does it increase accident risks, but insurance companies may also deny coverage for damages if out of date.

MOTORING II euroweeklynews.com

ROAD TEST By Mark Slack Since they relaunched in this country MG has been launching a raft of increasingly good vehicles and are now venturing strongly into EV vehicles. One of their newest is the MG4, and it has met with much praise from the motoring press. Whilst style is always a subjective matter the MG4 is certainly striking and helped by some equally striking colours that really suit the car. The range starts from, in EV terms, a very reasonable €31,414/£26,995 for the lead-in SE specification that includes climate, auto dimming rear view mirror, five driving modes, four regenerative braking modes to assist battery charging, Apple Car Play and Android Auto, LED headlights and rear lamps, auto headlights, two-tone black roof, rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring system and a plethora of safety kit. Range varies from 218

21 - 27 December 2023

EWN 79

MG4 - strikingly affordable

The MG4 has been met with much praise from the motoring press.

FACTS AT GLANCE

MODEL: MG4 TROPHY LONG RANGE ENGINE: 64 KWH BATTERY – 203 PS GEARS: AUTOMATIC PRICE: €37,826/£32,495 PERFORMANCE: 0-100 KPH (62 MPH) 7.7 SECONDS/MAXIMUM SPEED 160 KPH (100 MPH). RANGE: 281 MILES COMBINED DRIVING ON SINGLE CHARGE WLTP CHARGING: 150KW DC CHARGER FROM 10% TO 80% = 35 MINUTES EMISSIONS: 0 G/KM

miles at the entry level with a 51KWH battery, up to 323 miles in the top-spec’ extended range with a 77kwh battery. Charging times are very good with a 50kw rapid charger, which are becoming a tad more common, taking just 52 minutes from 10-80%. That reduces to under 40 minutes if you find a 150kw charger and a 7kw home charger will take around 8 hours to 100% charge. On the road the MG is a smooth and comfortable drive with a very decent turn of speed when required. It’s also quite handy on the twisty stuff too! Comfortable seats and good levels of space make it a pleasant and accommodating automotive holdall. The standard black interior – fabric entry level and leathercloth and fabric for the higher trim versions – makes for an encompassing feel inside the cabin where lighter options might be welcome by some.

The touch screens are a tad ponderous and slow to respond. It’s something that I found on other MG models too but which seemed to be resolved, so let’s hope that’s the case with the MG4. I’m no fan of touchscreen technology so if you have it then it needs to respond quickly and easily. Lower trim models, in my view, represent particular value for money but even the top model is a not unreasonable €43,291/£37,190 given its specification. Arguably the look and feel of the interior is where competitors will win over the MG4 with more tactile and upmarket cabins. In the MG4 there’s yet another example of how the company has moved its brand forward into a new arena of striking and affordable EVs. Especially if you choose Holborn Blue or Volcano Orange paint finish.

euroweeklynews.com II SPORT

Flirting with Barcelona

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IN the world of football rumours abound but one quite persistent one is that Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp may not be averse to taking over at Barcelona. Even though he has a contract that should see him remain with the Reds until 2026, it seems that he is being wooed by Joan Laporta President of Barcelona FC. The fact is that although Klopp has been very successful with Liverpool his record has been eclipsed by Pepe Guardiola’s achievement at Manchester City and it is believed that he wants to get a new challenge with a top club where he can start rebuilding and bringing in the silverware. Barcelona have not done well this season under head coach Xavi Hernández who is on a relatively short term contract and they are currently languishing (for them) nine points behind La Liga leaders Girona. This could be an ideal chance for Klopp to rebuild a side whose fans always expect perfection and winning ways. There is no question that Klopp had a spectacular record at Borussia Dortmund and although Liverpool have has some significant success in various competitions, they have only been Premier League Champions once Credit: Liverpool Football Club under his tenure Dr Klopp on call. so a move could be good for his ego.

UNLIKE our professional counterparts, walking footballers do have ‘time off’ to visit relatives and friends and to celebrate the festive season in the customary manner. Consequently, there are no further League games until January. However, all clubs are keen to recruit new members and welcome any queries from potential newbies to the sport. Look up your local club on Facebook! Following on from last week’s information, here are details of more of our AWFL clubs: Nerja Utd WFC Teams: Over 50s (urgently need more) and Over 60s Ground: Parque Verano Azul, C. Antonio Ferrandis Chanquete, Nerja Contact: Jonny Holdaway 711 064 490 or e.mail holdawayfs@gmail.com Real Calahonda WFC Teams: Over 50s and Over 60s Ground: Finca Naundrup, Calahonda Contact: Del Robertson (0044) 7506 216887 Scott Cousins 654 697 215 Internacionales Mollina WFC Teams: Over 50s Ground: Estadio las Acacias, Mollina, 29532 Contact: Ken Wilson - e.mail: Inter Mollina@outlook.com And on a charitable note, highlighting REAL MADRID faces a formidable setback following David Alaba’s injury during the recent match against Villareal. Alaba’s attempt to pressurise Gerard Moreno led to a devastating outcome when his left knee buckled. The diagnosis was swift and grim: a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, leaving the Austrian sidelined for the rest of the season and with the possibility of missing out on the upcoming Euro Cup. Carlo Ancelotti, the Madrid coach, faces a defensive crisis with Alaba joining Militão and Courtois on the injury list. With only two fit centre-backs, Rüdiger and Nacho, the team enters a pivotal pe-

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80 EWN 21 - 27 December 2023

Looking for new recruits.

the community work in which clubs often involve themselves, Real Calahonda have been successfully collecting Christmas gifts for underprivileged children, supporting The Adintre Foundation, a Fuengirola based charity (www.adintre foundation.com). Well done, lads! And of course, we wish all EWN readers a very Merry Christmas from all members of the Andalucia Walking Football League! See you in the New Year! (Sponsored by www.mylawyerin spain.com)

Crushing crisis riod in multiple competitions with a fragile defensive line. The urgency for a high-calibre replacement is palpable. Ancelotti acknowledges the necessity of bolstering the team’s defence for crucial matches ahead, notably the Super Copa de España semifinal against Atlético in Riad and the Copa del Rey semi-finals in February and of course the Champions League. Ancelotti expressed his disbelief and concern, calling it ‘incredible’ to face a third ACL tear in four months. Alaba, despite the team’s day off, visited the club’s medical

staff, discussing treatment options, with initial estimations hinting at an eight-month recovery. Rüdiger and Nacho, the only available centre-backs, now shoulder immense responsibility with the German playing 90 per cent of possible minutes, while Nacho is comparatively fresher at 47 per cent. The urgency to secure a top-tier defender is evident for Madrid to sustain its competitive edge across various competitions. The absence of Alaba not only impacts Madrid’s title aspirations but also raises concerns for Austria’s Euro Cup campaign.