Axarquia 4 – 10 January 2024 Issue 2009 by Euro Weekly News Media S.A.

Axarquia

• Issue No. 2009 • 4 - 10 January 2024

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MALAGA witnessed the dawn of 2024 with the arrival of Emilia, the second cherubic face to grace the city this year and the first baby in Axarquia. At 8.09am in Axarquia Regional Hospital, Emilia made her grand entrance, weighing a healthy 3.730 kilograms. Her elated parents, Natalia and Santiago, originally from Argentina but now settled in Benajarafe, couldn’t contain their joy as they welcomed their firstborn. Amidst the festivities and crackling fireworks, Natalia and Santiago rushed to the hospital around midnight, eager to cradle their baby girl. The new parents expressed their gratitude for the straightforward and smooth delivery process.

2024 ARRIVES: Embracing the New Year throughout Axarquia.

las 3 Culturas echoed with the sounds of joyous partygoers counting down to midnight, embracing the start of 2024 with joy. Not limited to these towns, Velez-Malaga had its own taste of New Year’s

Eve with the Pre-New Year’s Eve Party at Plaza del Carmen which is becoming popular in Spain. The early afternoon festivity, including the lively flamenco and music performances, finished in a spectacular

celebration with confetti and surprises galore. Across Axarquia, the New Year was greeted with open arms, setting the tone for a year filled with happiness, unity, and promising beginnings.

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WHALE ENCOUNTER RESIDENTS of Torrox were left astounded by an extraordinary event recently as a Local Police officer, German Luque, spotted two colossal fin whales during a serene sunset just 800 metres off the Ferrara beach. These magnificent creatures, on the brink of critical extinction, measuring up to 27 metres in length, provided an unprecedented spectacle for marine enthusiasts and locals alike. Just days before, in the tranquil waters of La Herradura, a picturesque part of Almuñecar, divers were gifted a breathtaking view as multiple fin whales graced the Christmas Day sunset. Open Water, a local diving centre, shared this mesmerising encounter on social media, highlighting the graceful movements of the fin whales, the world’s second-largest mammals. They are thought to be the same whales spotted in Torrox. These awe-inspiring sightings along the Andalucian coast, particularly during the festive season, astonished many. Despite their migratory nature, fin whales usually prefer colder waters, making their presence in the Mediterranean, especially so close to the coast, at this time of year a rarity. Unfortunately, the endangered status of fin whales persists due to various human-induced threats, including environmental pollution. Toxic substances, microplastics, and disruptive anthropogenic noises continue to endanger these magnificent creatures.

FIRST 24 BABY Image: Shutterstock/Vad-Len

THE spirit of celebration swept through the picturesque towns of Axarquia as residents and visitors welcomed the arrival of 2024 with music and merriment. From Nerja’s iconic Balcón de Europa to the charming streets of Frigiliana and beyond, the region was alive with diverse festivities. Nerja’s Balcón de Europa transformed into a hub of excitement as thousands gathered to bid farewell to 2023. DJ Toulalan’s infectious tunes resonated through the air, amplifying the jubilant atmosphere. The Great New Year’s Eve Party, which began at 11.00pm, brought the town together with laughter, and anticipation for the fresh year ahead. Meanwhile, Frigiliana featured live music that reverberated throughout the town. The Plaza de

Image: Nerja Town Hall

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Two bundles of joy for the Malaga area.

Separated from family in Argentina, the cou-

ple anticipated sharing this momentous occa-

sion through video calls. Despite the distance, the bond between Emilia and her relatives remains unwavering. Emilia’s arrival not only heralds new beginnings for her loving parents but also spreads joy and hope as Axarquia embraces the promise of a new year. Across town, Sandra made history as Malaga’s first baby of 2024. Born to María del Carmen at 6.59am in the Maternal and Child Hospital, Sandra weighed 3.40 kilograms and measured 49 centimetres. María, eagerly anticipating Sandra’s arrival, had to forgo the New Year’s grapes!

Image: Open Water La Herradura Facebook

A rare gift during the festive season.

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NERJA, has achieved exceptional recognition in social welfare and investment, standing out as the only municipality in the region to attain an ‘excellent’ rating for both categories in the 2022 Liquidated Budget released by the Ministry of Finance and Public Function. Among 404 municipalities in Spain with over 20,000 inhabitants, Nerja ranks second nationwide for its outstanding performance in Social Services, a distinction granted by the State Association of Social Services Directors and Managers. Only 37 municipalities, comprising a mere 9.16 per cent, achieved the esteemed ‘Social Excellence’ level, witnessing a decline from the previous

Nerja’s excellence Charity & tunes Royal fun

EXCELLENT RATING: Nerja stands out.

year due to increased social spending criteria. Nerja’s remarkable achievement lies in its unprecedented 211 per cent increase in social investment

compared to prior terms, a feat accomplished by only six municipalities countrywide. This accolade reflects a committed effort toward enhancing societal welfare, setting a new benchmark for effective social spending in Spain. Andalucia leads with 16 municipalities meeting the investment benchmark, underscoring the impact of local dependency support services. Other regions also made notable contributions, marking a milestone in Spain’s social welfare landscape.

TAIL TORROX, a prominent charity organisation, is set to host a fundraising event on Saturday, January 13, commencing at 5pm. The event, located at Bar Nina Torrox Costa on Avenida de Europa blq 80, promises an evening filled with live music performances by artists John Mitchell, Sofie Jonsson, and DJ Stuey. In a bid to support their cause, the event offers an array of delectable food options including chili sin carne and soup, catering to diverse tastes. Attendees can also partake in an exciting raffle with enticing prizes. Entry to this charitable event requires a €5 donation along with a bottle of bleach, all proceeds going directly to Tail Torrox’s initiatives. The fundraiser aims to raise awareness and vital funds to further their noble cause. Join in for a night of music, gastronomy, and generosity, supporting Tail Torrox’s mission. Image: Shutterstock/ Javier Brosch

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Image: Nerja Town Hall

FUNDRAISING EVENT: Supporting Tail Torrox.

GET ready to celebrate as the magic of the Three Kings’ Parade descends upon Frigiliana! On January 5 at 4.30pm, the beloved procession of the Three Kings will pass through the town’s streets, starting from the Plaza de la Iglesia and concluding at the Plaza de las 3 Culturas. The excitement and joy of Christmas continue with this wonderful tradition! To add to the excitement, bouncy castles and various activities for children have been set up in anticipation of the Three Kings’ arrival. Also, don’t miss the Royal Postman which has been set up at the Three Kings’ party area, where children can hand in their letters to the Royal Post Service which delivers the wish lists to the Three Kings. Join in the festivities and make this Three Kings’ celebration in Frigiliana a memorable one for the whole family!

Prime location IN a decisive move during a recent plenary session, Nerja’s town council voted to regain control of the space located beneath the iconic ‘reola’ of Balcón de Europa, known popularly in Nerja, where the former Rey Alfonso restaurant once stood. The decision follows a motion put forward by Angela Díaz, the council’s delegate for Economy and Finance. The plenary session approved the early termination of the contract by mutual agreement, acknowledging the lessee’s fulfilment of obligations to the Council. Angela Díaz expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “We’re reclaiming a space in the most emblematic area of our municipality.” She continued, “Nerja residents have reason to celebrate this development.” This significant decision marks the council’s strategic move to regain control of a pivotal spot in Nerja’s landscape, promising potential opportunities for the area’s future.

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IKER CASILLAS, the famous Spanish goalkeeper, delighted fans by visiting Nerja over the Christmas holidays. Sharing a sunset beach photo on social media, he captioned it ‘I love Nerja.’ Locals were thrilled, posting snapshots with the football icon and World Cup winner.

Art shots

EXPERIENCE Frigiliana through the lens of photographers Paco García and Pepe Pascual in their unmissable exhibition, ‘Miradas de Frigiliana.’ Hosted at Sala la Placituela from January 9, organised by Museo de Nerja. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10.00am to 2.00pm, with the grand opening on Tuesday, 9 at 7.30pm.

Gifts aplenty

VELEZ-MALAGA’S ‘Christmas Tournament: No Child Without a Toy’ thrives as a cherished tradition. Velez CF Veterans, supported by the Sports Council, orchestrated a festive football match versus the Ntra. Sra. de la Caridad de Vélez Band. Hundreds of toys found their way to deserving children through the Red Cross.

Cave traffic

VISITS to El Cantal caves in Rincon de la Victoria keep rising. The Treasure Cave welcomed 3,590 more visitors than in 2022. Meanwhile, visits to Victoria Cave increased by a staggering 48.8 per cent compared to the previous year.

Elite pick

RINCON de la Victoria welcomed the Spanish Handball Team recently. For two days, they trained at Rubén Ruzafa Pavilion ahead of the European Championship in Germany. The mayor and the Sports councillor Antonio José Martín, thanked the team for choosing their town for elite sports.

VELEZ-MALAGA is set to host its most enchanting day as the Three Kings approach, with councillor of Popular Traditions, Lourdes Piña, revealing the grand plans for January 5. Everything is in place for a magical day in Velez-Malaga. The Kings are scheduled to arrive on January 5, marking a day brimming with festivities. Their Majesties will distribute thousands of gifts and 6,500 kilos of sweets, leading a parade through the historic centre with 12 ﬂoats and over 600 participants. Piña expressed delight at the community’s enthusiasm, emphasising the event’s signiﬁcance for families, especially children. She thanked volunteers and contributors, aiming to create an unforgettable experience for everyone. The day’s agenda includes various events starting at 10.00am when the Kings will greet children at the Cerro hermitage be-

Three Kings

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Image: Shutterstock/vasanty

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STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Day trip

GRAND PLANS: Three Kings’ Day will be brimming with activities.

fore visiting key locations. Later, the grand parade, with over six tons of candy, will begin at 5.30pm from Pla-

Reusing water

THE Central Board of Irrigators in the Axarquia region is persistently advocating for maximising the use of purified and desalinated water, emphasising the urgent need for infrastructure development to enhance economic growth. Jaime Zaldúa, the spokesperson for this collective, highlights the critical role of water resources in the region’s thriving agriculture, contributing significantly to Europe’s fruit consumption and employing over 8,000 individuals, constituting 20 per cent of the area’s GDP. Zaldúa emphasises the importance of sustainability in water resource management, citing studies that indicate substantial returns on investment in water infrastructure. However, the severe drought affecting the region poses significant challenges, impacting tourism and natural resources. He calls for collaborative efforts among stakeholders, including farmers, businesses, cooperatives, and local governments, to address the pressing issue. Zaldúa underscores the immediate need for infrastructure investments to mitigate the economic repercussions of the drought, stressing the vital role of water management in sustaining the region’s economy and livelihoods.

za de las Indias, passing through several streets before ﬁnishing at Plaza de las Carmelitas.

Medical Hub THE Andalucian Government has granted a construction contract worth over €9.2 million for Nerja’s new Health Centre. The project is planned for a 20-month completion period. Spanning 4,520 square metres across three floors above ground and a basement, the health centre will house 26 standard consultation rooms, specialised paediatric units, and dental and physiotherapy facilities, among others. The development, financed by the 100 per cent MINAP Plan (Primary Care Infrastructure Improvement Plan), aligns with the 2022-2024 Primary Care Action Plan, aiming to enhance primary healthcare for over 24,700 residents according to recent calculations. Currently, over 75 professionals serve at the centre, offering an extensive range of services including emergency care, radiology, rehabilitation, and dentistry. Upon completion, the centre is set to host a team of 17 family physicians, paediatricians, nurses, auxiliary caregivers, technicians, social workers, administrative staff, and support personnel, broadening healthcare access for the community.

Concerts galore MARK your calendars for an extraordinary celebration hosted by The Arts Society Nerja! In honour of their 30th anniversary, the society cordially invites you to their inaugural New Year’s Concert on Saturday, January 20, at 7.30pm in Centro Cultural Nerja. Collaborating with the Nerja Town Hall and Blevins Franks, this musical extravaganza promises an unforgettable evening ﬁlled with melody and artistry. Tickets are available for only €10! Continuing the festivities on January 23 at 6pm, join The Arts Society Nerja

for an enlightening lecture in English accompanied by a mesmerising live Flamenco performance. Delve into the Latin American inﬂuence embedded in Flamenco songs explained in English by the talented narrator, Helen Sijsling. Featuring the remarkable skills of dancer Antonio Guerra, singer Rosa Linero, and guitarist Ruben Portillo, this event is free for members and €10 for non-members. Embrace an enchanting evening celebrating the fusion of Cuban and Flamenco music!

GET ready for an adventure as Torrox Community Club proudly announces its inaugural outing to the famed Nevada Shopping Centre in Granada on January 20. Departing at 09.00 sharp from Torrox Hub, this promises to be an unforgettable day. Members can secure their spot for €17.50, while non-members are welcome at €22.50. To ensure your place, book now and make your payment through various convenient methods: in-store at Torrox Hub, via bank transfer, or through a secure online payment link sent upon booking conﬁrmation. Seize this opportunity and the Torrox Community Club! Hurry, as slots are limited! Follow their Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/ torroxcommunityclub for more information.

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A New Era of Affordable Living in Almuñécar

be equipped with shared facilities including a gym, communal areas, a multipurpose room, a play area, and more across a 702-square-metre space distributed over multiple floors. Furthermore, the project emphasises sustainable practices, focusing on energy efficiency and waste management to reduce emissions and promote self-sustaining

housing powered by clean energy sources. With an estimated investment of €12.5 million, construction is planned to conclude by June 2026. These residences will be available exclusively to those registered in the Almuñecar - La Herradura Town Hall’s housing demand registry, offering an opportunity for affordable living in a high-demand area.

THE Regional Goportance in enhanvernment allocated cing road passenger nearly €400,000 to transport services. revamp bus stops The meticulous disin numerous munitribution of these cipalities across the shelters factored province and Axarin updated assessquia. This extensive ments of provincial project, spearheaneeds and inputs ded by the Ministry from local adminisof Development, trations and users. Territorial Articu- Enhancing commuter comfort. These newly equilation, and Housing, pped shelters not involved the instaonly shield waiting llation of 39 modern bus stop shelters in passengers from the elements but also around 30 towns, boosting accessibility prioritise accessibility for individuals with and comfort for commuters. The initiative, disabilities. Strategically positioned in urbacked by the European Regional Develo- ban, rural, and town centre locations, thepment Fund, highlights the significance of se shelters are designed to withstand dipublic transportation in fostering connecti- verse weather conditions while enhancing vity across Andalusia. the overall transportation experience. Maria Rosa Morales, the territorial deThe project signifies a proactive step legate, highlighted the shelters’ role in towards improving public transit infraselevating the passenger experience even tructure and inclusivity across communibefore boarding, emphasising their im- ties in the region. Image: Shutterstock/

THE Diputación de Granada, in collaboration with the Almuñecar - La Herradura Town Hall, has sealed a significant deal aimed at addressing the housing needs of the region. This agreement involves the allocation of a prime location in the heart of Almuñecar for a pioneering housing project. This venture will bring forth a complex comprising 101 affordable homes for public rental, with rentals ranging from €300 to €500 per month. The initiative, orchestrated through the Provincial Housing, Land, and Equipment Company (VISOGSA), highlights the pressing need to provide housing options for the younger population. These accommodations will

Image: Almuñecar Town Hall

Shared spaces Bus refurb

A Dry 2023

THE La Viñuela reservoir has experienced a drastic decrease in the amount of water it holds in comparison to its total capacity. Currently, it holds slightly

more than 12 cubic hectometres of water. The reservoir’s water level has dropped to 7.48 per cent of its total capacity. Just a week ago, it was at a

higher level of 12.35 hectometres, indicating a substantial reduction within a short period. This year’s water level is notably lower compared to the same time last year when the reservoir contained 18.41 hectometres of water, underscoring a significant decline in its water storage capacity over the past year. The year 2023 concluded in Malaga Province as the driest on record since 1961, with no rainfall and exceptionally mild December temperatures. Accumulated rainfall until November barely reached 175 millimetres, a mere 41 per cent of the normal 424 millimetres. Moreover, 2023 not only marks the driest year but also the hottest on record. The dire water situation signals an urgent need for conservation and highlights the severity of climatic changes in the region.

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Avocado bandit tor’s escape by seizing the keys to the getaway vehicle forcing the perpetrators to flee on foot, and promptly alerting the authorities. Investigating officers uncovered compelling evidence, directly linking the detained individual’s vehicle to others found near the breached fence used by the trespassers, according to the Provincial Police Headquarters. Amidst these incidents, the impact of the drought on avocado prices has

THE regional government of Andalucia announced strict measures prohibiting electric scooters from accessing public transportation that came into effect on January 1. This ban, affecting metros, buses, and ferries, aims to prioritise passenger safety due to recent incidents of battery fires on public transport. Similar restrictions have been implemented across Spain and Europe, and Andalucia is now following suit temporarily. The decision comes in response to the safety concerns arising from battery-related hazards that have posed risks to travellers in recent months. The ban will remain in place until these risks are significantly mitigated. This move stems from the Directo-

been a growing concern. The scarcity of water has led to diminished avocado yields, pushing prices to unprecedented levels and potentially contributing to the surge in thefts seen recently. Collaborating with witnesses, the police conducted extensive inquiries, resulting in the apprehension of a suspicious individual matching the provided description, leading to his arrest for alleged involvement in the incident.

Scooter ban rate General of Traffic’s (DGT) directive regarding the safety certification of Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs). Starting January 21, only certified electric scooters will be permitted for commercial sale, emphasising reasons for road safety and rider protection. However, these safety assurances won’t apply to electric scooters already in service before the above date. They will operate under a moratorium without regulation until 2027, raising questions about the safety of these existing vehicles despite the new regulations.

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Family fun run THE Carrera de San Silvestre in Spain is a popular running event held annually on December 31, New Year’s Eve. It’s part of a tradition that takes place in various Spanish cities and towns, and it’s named after Saint Silvester. The race is usually a festive and light-hearted event, where participants - often dressed in costumes - run through the streets, to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one with a sense of community, sport, and celebration. This famous race was enjoyed across the Region of Axarquia. The San Silvestre 2023 race took over the streets of Velez-Malaga, an integral part of the local Christmas festivities. Participants and onlookers alike were trea-

Image: Rincon de la Victoria Town Hall

THE National Police recently detained a man in Almayate, Velez-Malaga, suspected of committing a burglary at a local estate, potentially driven by the soaring prices of avocados due to the prevailing drought. The arrest stems from a concerned citizen’s keen observation of several individuals allegedly stealing avocados from the property. The scarcity caused by the prolonged drought has significantly hiked avocado prices, possibly triggering such criminal activities. An astute bystander thwarted one perpetra-

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ANNUAL EVENT: Embracing tradition and community.

ted to a flurry of surprises at the finish line in Plaza del Carmen. Led by Sports councillor Rocío Ruiz, along with councillors Lourdes Piña, Jesús Maria Claros, and Juan Fernández Olmo, the race witnessed enthusiastic participation and finished with a vibrant award ceremony. Rincon de la Victoria also saw a record-breaking turnout

of 705 registered runners in their traditional San Silvestre, attended by Mayor Francisco Salado. As is customary, participants dressed up in imaginative costumes. Paula León from Bahía Málaga Club and Javi Gómez from Club Atletismo Malaga emerged victorious in the five-kilometre race, claiming the top spots.

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Hero of ‘Post Office Scandal’ Alan Bates, rejects OBE THE British Post Office scandal is a grave miscarriage of justice in which more than 700 sub-postmasters were wrongly prosecuted privately and publicly for theft, false accounting and fraud. Many aspects of the scandal remain unresolved, and the devastating effect that it left on hundreds of lives remains. The cover up left workers in financial ruin, with destroyed relationships, even pushing some to try and take their own lives. The cases span a period of over 20 years, and the BBC called the convictions “the UK’s most widespread

Credit: CreativeCommons/Nwalls

‘A Man Of Honour’, Alan Bates.

miscarriage of justice”. The scandal is once again a topic of conversation, not only in the UK, but in many other parts

of the world too, due to the ITV Drama series ‘Mr Bates vs The Post Office, which aired its first episode on January 1, 2024. The series, which viewers have branded ‘blood boiling’ on social media, recreates Alan Bate’s desperate and determined, decades long fight against the Post Office on behalf of all the subpostmasters and subpostmistresses who were wrongfully prosecuted, and in some cases, even sent to prison. Although played by ac-

tor Toby Jones, the real Mr Bates is in fact warranting much attention of his own, as he has recently turned down the chance to become an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE). In an interview Alan Bates explained that “the first thing that sprang to my mind while reading the letter was that Paula Vennells still had a CBE. I felt so deeply insulted.” Paula Vennells is the Former Post Office boss who became a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2019. Many blame her for the whole scandal, however to this day she still retains this honour. Yesterday, January 2, Carol Vorderman took to her social media to praise the Post Office hero over his decision to turn down the OBE for this ‘noble reason’. In addition, she also shared a picture of Alan, titles, “A man of honour.”

French couple arrested in Algeciras port A SHOCKING report has emerged about how a couple with mental health problems were arrested in Spain, in an attempt to take their endangered son to the Sahara. In a shocking and sad incident at the Port of Algeciras, a French couple was apprehended under a European arrest warrant. Their arrest has raised critical questions about mental health and child safety. The event, which recently unfolded, involved a couple with known psychiatric issues. They were caught in Algeciras, Spain, as they were about to embark for Tangier, Morocco. Their intention was chilling, to sacrifice their fiveyear-old son in the Sahara after they were convinced the child was possessed. Responding to an urgent request from the French Gendarmerie, the Guardia Civil of Algeciras Fiscal and Border Company immediately sprang into action. The French authorities had relayed fears about the couple’s intention to travel to the Sahara for a sinister purpose. The seriousness of the events required a rapid and coordinated response, stressed a Guardia Civil spokesperson. The couple’s plan was thwarted just in time. They were found in their vehicle, moments from boarding a ferry to Tangier. Thanks to the vigilance and coordination between the authorities, a potential tragedy was averted. Following their arrest, the couple was taken into custody, and the child, found in good health, was placed in a juvenile care centre.

Shoppers astounded at price

AS 2024 begins and supermarkets are open again after the holiday period, one thing is leaving local Spanish shoppers in absolute shock. No, it’s not the fact that Christmas decorations are still up (celebrations don’t end here in Spain until January 6), but rather the outstanding price of one staple ingredient of this country, olive oil. The average price of extra virgin olive oil now stands at €9.42 per kilo, according to calculations by Spain’s OCU consumers’ organisation, which is more than double what it was at this time last year. Euro Weekly News spoke to local residents in the south of Spain, an area where olive oil is considered ‘liquid gold’ and is used in many dishes, about how they planned to cope with this rising cost. Sharon Hague, a British woman who has been living in Spain for 20 years explained that “I stopped using butter quite a long time ago, because olive oil is healthier

Credit: Shutterstock/2238718775

OLIVE OIL: Supermarket shock awaits customers.

and I wanted to blend into the Spanish lifestyle, but now it looks like I may have to switch back.” Another Spanish resident, Amy Taggart from Ireland stated, “it’s ridiculous, I tried every supermarket, Aldi, Lidl, Mercadona, all the prices are the same, extortionate! It’s really affecting my budget.” EWN also heard from Marbella born and bred Miguel Angel Liñan, who said he was “not surprised”, adding that “due to the weather, prices have gone up for everyone”. When asked what his solution was he explained “my family have olive trees,

so it’s not so bad for us, but the closer you can buy to the source the less you will pay because you are paying the profit of fewer people.” Smart! Thanks Miguel. Other experts have advised to buy the highest quality available and use much less whilst cooking or garnishing, with some even proposing users mix olive oil with animal fat to make it go further. Either way, hopefully 2024 will bring more stable weather and a drop in these runaway prices of a much loved ingredient, not only in Spain, but also worldwide.

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MIJAS residents Alan and Jenny Boardman decided this Christmas that they would gift an El Corte Inglés hamper to Michel and Steven Euesden, the owners of Euro Weekly News. This gesture was partly as a token of their friendship and partly because of the publicity their newspaper has consistently given to Mijas Walking Tours for Charity which has raised over €16,000 for Costa del Sol charities in the last three years. Michel and Steven decided that, rather than keep the hamper for themselves or try to divide up the contents fairly (not an easy task) they would instead raffle it among the staff of Euro Weekly News in their Fuengirola head office and in return, the kind staff there raised a total of €100. Alan raises funds for a different Costa del Sol charity every two months through his Walking Tours of Mijas and other events, so Michel and Steven promptly donated the €100 to his latest nominated charity, Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group based in Calahonda. The paying it forward didn’t stop there though. The winner of the hamper, Naz (pictured with Alan) went home, and knocked on the door of his neighbour Raquel who is a member of the Association ‘El Vuelo De Las Libélulas’ which collaborates with families covering their basic needs and donated the hamper to that charity.

Naz and Alan at the Euro Weekly News office.

This story really embodies the spirit of Christmas and shows what positive things can happen through the power of human kindness. It also ties in nicely with Michel’s comments only last week in this newspaper about how we can all help anyone we know who is lonely and/or in need. It doesn’t have to involve buying an El Corte Inglés hamper of course but as the saying goes, “it’s the thought that counts.”

SPANISH news media often has a fascination with the British press, about how its cities and culture are perceived in the UK. A recent article from a well-known Spanish newspaper reported on such an article that shed light on a Spanish city that has charmed English tourists with its understated beauty and historical richness. On the 2022 tourist map, Spain attracted over 70 million visitors, predominantly from the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. This surge in tourism underscores Spain’s allure, especially among British travellers who cherish the nation’s climate, cuisine, and culture. Girona: An Overlooked Marvel Despite being overshadowed by more famous locales, Girona, a Catalan city at just 100 kilometres from Barcelona, has captured the hearts of many English

Banys Arabs, Girona.

tourists. Once known primarily for its airport’s proximity to Barcelona, and described as ‘one of the most underrated cities in Spain,’ Girona is now recognised for its intrinsic value. Girona serves as a gateway for many en route to Spain’s larger cities. But, the overwhelming opinion is that it deserves far greater recognition. Girona possesses some of the best preserved medieval walls and cobblestone streets, rated among

Credit: Tim Adams/Creative Commons Attribution 3.0

Paying it forward A hidden Spanish gem the finest in Europe. Notably the TV fantasy series Game of Thrones chose the town for filming some of its scenes. Architectural And Natural Splendour Not only does Girona boast symbolic structures like the symmetrical bell tower of the Monastery of San Pedro de Galligants and the Arab baths, but it also invites exploration of its scenic surroundings. Framed by the Pyrenees and enveloped in forests, Girona’s charm extends beyond its architecture, in particular the grandeur of the Onar River that flows through the city. Girona emerges not just as a stopover but as a destination worthy of admiration and exploration. Its blend of historical splendour, architectural beauty, and natural landscapes makes it a hidden gem, now rightfully earning the attention it deserves.

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one of the royal family’s historic tiaras, pieces that have adorned her mother and aunts, Infantas Cristina and Elena, on many notable occasions.

This event is a blend of tradition, familial connections, and the evolving role of Princess Leonor within the Spanish royal family. It represents not only the

deep ties between the British and Spanish monarchies but also a new chapter in the life of a young princess stepping into a more significant role on the world stage.

She’s worth it The Spanish Royal Family on Constitution Day,

This traditional dress code is a requisite for the gala dinners hosted during such high-profile state visits. Although Leonor has been seen in cadet gala dress, the state visit offers her a debut in full royal regalia, symbolising her transition into a more prominent public role. Ties Of Tradition And Transition This state visit is significant not just for Leonor but also for its reflection of the longstanding ties between the British and Spanish royal

families. The relationship between King Charles and King Felipe, who had a deep admiration for Queen Elizabeth, adds a personal touch to the visit. King Felipe and Queen Letizia have made several visits to England. These have included the wedding of Kate Middleton and Prince William, Queen Elizabeth’s funeral, and King Charles’ enthronement which have further solidified these bonds. During this visit, it is anticipated that Leonor will wear

ON Thursday December 28 Françoise Bettencourt Meyers became the first woman to be worth $100 billion (€904.5 billion) after a rise in L’Oreal shares. Bettencourt Meyers inherited the cosmetics and perfume empire in 2017 from her mother who, before her death, had been the world’s richest woman. Promoted by celebrities, actresses and supermodels like Kendall Jenner, Penelope Cruz and Beyonce, L’Oreal is inseparable from its ‘Because I’m worth it’ slogan, first introduced 50 years ago. The company was founded in 1909 by Eugene Schueller, Bettencourt Meyers’s grandfather, to produce and sell the hair dye he had invented. Headquartered in Clichy on the outskirts of Paris, L’Oreal has a €241 billion

value on the Paris stock exchange where it is listed. Seventy-year-old Bettencourt Meyers, and her family are L’Oreal’s principal shareholders with a stake of nearly 35 per cent whose soaring value increased her wealth by $28.6 billion (€25.8 billion) this year to reach $100 billion, according to Bloomberg’s Billionaires Index. Nevertheless, Bettencourt Meyers was not the highest-placed French person on the Bloomberg list. That position went to Bernard Arnault who has a $179 billion (€162 billion) fortune which grew by $16.9 billion (€15.3 billion) in 2023, owing to the performance of his LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton) luxury goods group.

Embracing Swedish habit

HAVE you ever wondered how to start your day on a happier note? In Sweden, a simple morning habit is making waves in Spain for its positive impact on well-being. According to the ‘Third Emotional Wellbeing Report’ by the AXA Group, conducted with over 16,000 respondents across 16 countries, only 47 per cent of Spaniards claim to be happy. This stark contrast to the high levels of contentment seen in Sweden, known for its exceptional quality of life, draws our attention to the Scandinavian approach to wellbeing. The Secret Of Swedish Contentment Sweden, renowned for its high quality of life, attributes its citizens’ happiness to more than just wealth. Embracing ‘slow living’, the Swedes prioritise work-life balance, reduced stress, and mindful enjoyment of leisure. Central to this philosophy is a morning routine, increasingly adopted in Spain, which reportedly boosts happiness and energy. Gokotta: A Morning Tradition The key to this routine is the ‘gokotta’ method, translating to ‘dawn with the cuckoo’. It involves rising early to experience the first birdsong of the day, a tradition deeply rooted in Sweden’s connection with nature. Originally a springtime practice, it now extends throughout the year and beyond

Credit: LeManna/Shutterstock.com

THE British and Spanish royal families will be reunited early this year, marking a momentous occasion for a certain member of the Spanish Royal Household. The visit is being scheduled for the end of January or early February 2024. However, King Charles and Camilla’s official visit to Spain is not just another entry in the royal itinerary, but a momentous occasion, especially for the Spanish royal family. This visit holds particular significance as it coincides with Princess Leonor’s first public appearance in a long dress and tiara, marking a key milestone in her royal journey. A Royal Rite Of Passage Princess Leonor, who turned 18 last October, has been gradually stepping into the limelight at official events. The upcoming visit by King Charles and Camilla is set to be a landmark event for her, as she will don her first formal royal attire publicly.

Credit: CasaReal/X

King Charles and Camilla to visit Spain

POSITIVE IMPACT: Early morning in nature.

Swedish borders. The modern twist? Enjoying not just the birdsong but also the sunrise, be it during a walk in nature or from one’s own balcony. Benefits Of The Gokotta Method This practice, by witnessing natural light early in the day, aligns our circadian rhythms, which aids in stress and anxiety management. Sunlight exposure also enhances serotonin production, crucial for sleep regulation. Thus, embracing the morning sun can significantly improve mental balance and sleep quality. Adapting gokotta to life in Spain or elsewhere involves simple steps. Enjoy morning calm in parks or natural areas, establish serene morning rituals like meditation, and disconnect from digital devices. Even city dwellers can create a tranquil environment at home with plants and natural light, embodying the spirit of gokotta.

NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

4 - 10 January 2024

EWN

2023 Cost of Spanish drought Unique cow poop lottery Credit: lunamarina/Shutterstock.com Credit: Quintanilla/Shutterstock.com

LAST year, Spain experienced one of its most severe droughts, the ninth most expensive climate disaster in the world per capita in 2023, it cost €45.5 per Spaniard This environmental tragedy incurred a staggering total expense exceeding €2.1 billion. The annual report by Christian Aid, an international development organisation, highlights this. It emphasises the grave, direct impact of climate change on populations, detailing the financial strain of the top 20 climate catastrophes globally, including cyclones, floods, and fires. Christian Aid typically computes costs by dividing the damage from disasters like fires, floods, and droughts by the population in the impacted areas. However, some events defy calculation. The September floods in Libya, for instance, claimed about 11,000 lives in Derna and resulted in ‘incalculable’ damage. Here, the cost was

COWS: Rectangles decide on the winner. CLIMATE DISASTER: Extreme drought in Spain.

estimated at €95.6 per person, considering the required humanitarian aid. The focus on Spain’s drought, uniquely categorised in the report, reveals the regional variations of this crisis. Although the report is specific to April in Catalonia, where consumption restrictions were imposed in 22 localities, the calculation encompasses all Spaniards. Throughout 2023, Spain grappled with high temperatures and water scarcity, such as unusually high temperatures that caused 38.8 degrees to be recorded at the Cordoba airport on April 26. The lack of water generally affected agricul-

tural production, the olive harvest for example and an even bigger impact to wheat and rye. The government’s response involved a €2.1 billion aid package for water supply and farming support, equating to a per capita cost of around €45.5. Spain’s drought stands out in a list led by Hawaii’s August fires, which cost Hawaiians €3,700 per person. This comparison underscores the varied impact of climate disasters around the world. Spain’s position in the list is a shocking reminder of the escalating economic toll of climate change.

HAVE you ever heard of a lottery where cow dung determines the winner? In the Galician council of A Mezquita, this peculiar event is a reality. With most of Spain focused on the El Gordo lottery draw recently, Galicia once again demonstrated its unique sense of humour by holding a lottery with a difference. Organised by the Ourense Council, this unique raffle took place again this year, drawing crowds and sparking interest. Participants eagerly anticipate this annual event, much like the excitement surrounding the Extraordinary Christmas Lottery Draw. This year’s edition marked the fifth edition of this unusual contest, aimed at promoting local businesses. Rafael Perez, the town’s mayor, described the event as ‘a different and attractive raffle’, which has certainly lived up to its expectations by generating significant

buzz. The process is simple yet highly unusual. The organisers mark out a grid on a large flat area of ground in which numbered and lettered rectangles are drawn. Cows are then released into the area, and the lucky €1,000 winner is determined by which rectangle a cow decides to deliver its cowpat upon. In this year’s draw, the prize was awarded to the rectangle marked with the number 103 and the letter C. Famous cows like Macarena and Paradela have previously participated, and this year, a calf named Ayuso made its debut, promptly delivering the ‘jackpot’. Raffle tickets are distributed free of charge by local businesses, including shops, restaurants, taxis, and supermarkets. The success of the event has been so overwhelming that the organisers are considering doubling the prize money to €2,000 for the 2024 edition.

10 EWN 4 - 10 January 2024

IRELAND Less friendly IRELAND’S Advertising Standards Authority (ASAI) asked the National Dairy Council to withdraw an advertisement which maintained that the country’s milk was the ‘most climate-friendly in the world’. The request was the result of a complaint which said the claim was based on statistics from 13 years ago.

Happy event THE Fota Wildlife Park in Carrigtwohill announced that a rare and endangered François langur monkey was born there in November. The baby’s mother and a younger sibling arrived at the Fota park from the UK’s Twycross Zoo in September 2022 under the European Endangered Breeding Programme (EEP).

SWEDEN

euroweeklynews.com II EUROPEAN PRESS

EUROPRESS NORWAY Slight rise THE Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD) announced a rise in the volume of oil production in November 2023 when compared to October or during the same period last year. Although this was 3.1 per cent lower than NPD predictions, total gas sales of 10.9 billion cubic metres were higher than expected.

NORWEGIAN OIL: Modest production increase in November.

GERMANY

BELGIUM Midnight dip LOUIS VERBEECK, a priest driving home after Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, inexplicably ended up in an Antwerp canal despite being familiar with the route. Passersby went to his aid and although unhurt he was taken to hospital with mild hypothermia and discharged in time for that morning’s 11am Mass.

Not funny

Photo credit: CC/Tommy Ellingsen

FRANCE

BY late December, the Net Brussel refuse collection service had dealt with 60 tons of laughing gas canisters, all of which needed to be separated from the other rubbish. Inevitably, some were not spotted, causing explosions which Net Brussel said resulted in shutting down an incinerator “on a weekly basis.”

DENMARK

Chipping in

Very merry

Go fish

Race date

AROUND 440,000 of Sweden’s 1.4 million cats have been chipped and registered in line with a law passed in 2022. The country’s Agriculture ministry said it was satisfied with the progress made, which was aimed at making it easier to trace a lost pet, raise their status and reduce the number of strays.

A DRUNK driver dressed as Father Christmas who was taking presents home on Christmas Eve, came off the road in Unstruttal and crashed into another car as well as a house front, which was badly damaged. Although nobody was harmed the 54-year-old was clearly unfit to drive and his licence confiscated after a breath-test.

THE port of Lorient hopes via Keroman, a company which is partly publicly-owned, to develop a 250-hectare, €280 million fishing hub in Oman which will fly in annual 200,000 tons of fish to the Brittany town. Many locals, especially environmentalists, are questioning the project’s effects on local life.

DENMARK, a country of cycling enthusiasts and home to several champions including Jonas Vingegaard who won the last two Tours de France, is to host a World Tour race. Scheduled for 2025, 2026 and 2027, the 250-kilometre route will set out from Roskilde and finish in Copenhagen.

Less high

Hot stuff

Red tape cut

MORTGAGE rates would fall slightly in 2024 from the current 5 per cent, economists from mortgage providers told the TT news agency. Nordnet’s Frida Bratt said home-owners or prospective buyers hoping for a return to 1 or 1.5 per cent would be disappointed, but rates would be “somewhat lower.”

WITH an average 10.6-degree annual temperature, 2023 was likely to be the warmest year since records began in 1881, Germany’s Meteorological Office (DWD) said. This figure surpasses 2022’s annual temperature of 10.5 degrees, the country’s warmest year until 2018, making the past two years the two hottest on record.

FRENCH pupils and those from EU countries on exchange visits to Britain will have less paperwork now that a change in UK regulations allows them to enter the county on an identity card. Non-EU nationals at French schools still need a passport but will not have to pay for a £115 (€132.25) visa.

ITALY

THE NETHERLANDS

FINLAND

Organic choice DENMARK buys more organic food than any other EU countries including France, Germany or Italy, the country’s Association of Organic Farms, Growers and Consumers. Exactly 99.7 per cent of the population told the association that they bought organic produce each day, principally fruit and vegetables.

PORTUGAL

Not amused

Turtle rescued

Flash cash

Rolling away

A NATIVITY scene in a Capocastello di Mercogliano church showing the Infant Jesus with two mothers instead of the usual Mary and Joseph, was criticised by conservative Catholics and politicians. In contrast, the parish priest defended the tableau, saying that modern families “were no longer like traditional ones.”

A LOGGERHEAD turtle washed up on the coast at the end of December was the sixth to be found since October. The latest was young and too weak to remove the large number of mussels on its shell, explained biologists at Rotterdam’s Blijdorp zoo where it is recovering with the other rescued turtles.

ONLY 6 per cent of Finns use cash, the latest figures show, although a Bank of Finland official said that people should have some cash at home to pay for food, medications and fuel in an emergency. “A disruption to card payment systems could complicate their lives,” Paivi Heikkinen warned.

THE Rolling Loud, the summer hip-hop festival held in Praia da Rocha (Portimão) in 2022 and 2023, would not take place in Portugal in 2024. The organisers failed to explain the decision, although town local sources quoted in the Portuguese media said that 2023 ticket sales had dropped “significantly.”

Not so many

Getting bigger

Rent hike

THE 49,600 refugees and close family members who reached the Netherlands by December 2023 suggested that the annual total would be under 50,000. This was well below the government’s earlier estimate of 76,000, although slightly higher than in 2022 when a total of 48,600 people sought refugee status.

HELSINKI city hall’s latest population forecast said this would grow from its 2022 count of 664,028 to more than 700,000 people in 2027 and 722,000 by 2040. The city expects to gain an extra 8,200 residents in 2024 and to continue growing at an annual rate of approximately 7,000 from 2025 onwards.

NEW rental contracts were 10.5 per cent higher during the third quarter of 2023, according to National Statistics Institute (INE) figures. Nevertheless, the national average of with a national average of €7.25 euros per square metre was 0.3 per cent lower than during the previous quarter, INE said.

Star puzzle A MAP of the night sky etched on a large stone excavated an ancient fort in northeastern Italy is more than 2,400 years old, astronomers said. The 29 engravings on the map were not random, as all but one aligned closely with visible stars, with the exception of one which experts believe was a supernova.

NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

4 - 10 January 2024

EWN 11

Deborah Edgington receives MBE DEBORAH CAROL EDGINGTON, a former councillor for Tourism in Antigua, has been awarded an MBE for her services to British Nationals in Fuerteventura (Canary Islands) in the New Year Honours list published on December 29. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Mrs Edgington supported British citizens on the island by keeping them informed of updates and restrictions, as well as assisting those who chose to return to the UK under challenging circumstances. In addition to helping her compatriots with logistical and bureaucratic issues, Mrs Edgington has worked with the local community to raise thousands of euros in funds for various charities. Hugh Elliott, the British Ambassador to Spain, said: “Deborah’s 25 years of serving the needs and

Deborah Edgington, MBE.

integration of the British community in Fuerteventura make her a worthy recipient of this MBE award. “She has worked tirelessly to ensure that British nationals know their rights and has not hesitated to step forward when most needed, through times of great changes or uncertainty, from Brexit, through the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond. “Through her sterling work she has earned

the respect and trust of those around her, and I’m delighted that it has been recognised with this award.” Mrs Edgington said: “It is a great honour and a complete surprise to have been awarded an MBE, I feel immensely proud and humbled. I am always happy to assist others, especially when sometimes these can be the most difficult moments for people. “This for me was always easier with the help and assistance I received from the fantastic team of Consulate Staff, Las Palmas Gran Canaria.” In addition to Mrs Edgington, three other British residents in Spain have been named in the New Year Honours list 2024: An MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) to Mrs Margery Anne Taylor, District Treasurer and Dis-

trict Training Officer, Royal British Legion, Spain South. ‘For services to Veterans in Spain.’ A BEM (British Empire Medal) to Mr Philip David Brown. President and

co-founder, MACS Charity Mojacar Area Cancer Support. ‘For services to people with Cancer in Spain.’ Becoming an Officer of the Order of the Bri-

tish Empire (OBE) is Mrs Susan Hannam, Vice-President, Cudeca Hospice Foundation. ‘For services to Palliative Care and Volunteering Services in Spain.’

British couple die in fire IN a tragic incident, a British couple, aged 84 and 78 whose identities were known locally, lost their lives in a house fire near Benidorm. The fatal fire occurred at their residence in the Denia area of Costa Blanca, close to Benidorm. The incident, which is believed to have taken place several days before the discovery, was reported by a neighbour on Friday, December 29, shortly before 11.00am. Emergency services, including firefighters, rushed to the scene at the Urbanizacion Betlems residential estate which lies next to the iconic Montgo Mountain, after being alerted by the concerned neighbour. Despite their prompt response, there was nothing they could do to save the couple. Spain’s National Police are now

spearheading the investigation into the fire’s origins. The neighbour who was instrumental in alerting the authorities, reported no visible flames but was alarmed by the blackened interior of the property’s windows. The evidence suggests that the fire might have been smouldering undetected for an extended period. Authorities have not confirmed the cause of the blaze. However, preliminary reports and local speculations hint at an accidental start, possibly due to a carelessly discarded cigarette butt. The exact duration of the fire before its discovery remains unclear, but speculations suggest it could have been days. As the community reels from the shock, the investigation continues underway.

FINANCE SHOPLIFTING cost the retail industry £1 billion in 2024 and people increasingly buy black market shoplifted food as prices soar, the British Independent Retailers Association said. Meat, cheese and confectionery are amongst the items most-often stolen in large quantities from shops and lorries, they said.

Cutting losses

SPAIN’S ‘bad bank’ Sareb set up 11 years ago during the financial crisis, plans to sell on €850 million in unpaid loans and defaulted mortgages. To help it do so, the bank has put out to tender a €375,100 contract for a financial consultant to carry out ‘one or several’ operations in 2024.

Brand scheme

SUPERDRY is negotiating to sell its brand rights in the US and Middle East to underpin the clothing company’s finances. The announcement follows last October’s agreement with India and Sri Lanka which raised £30 million (€34.57 million) in a deal with Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Brands.

Fewer layoffs

THE UGT union ratified the agreement that the CC OO and Sumados Fetico unions had previously reached with Telefonica. The working week has been reduced to 36 hours and instead of the multinational company’s plans for 5,124 redundancies, these have been reduced and now affect 3,421 employees.

Plucked Rose

ALISON ROSE, NatWest’s former chief executive, will have her name removed from the Rose Review, an official report on women entrepreneurs that bore her name. Rose had to resign following the debanking debacle when Nigel Farage’s Coutts account was allegedly closed owing to his political views.

STAT OF WEEK

€112 billion

paid in Income Tax (IRPF) alone to Spain’s tax authority Hacienda during the first 11 months of 2023, a record sum that topped the total received in 2022.

Hollywood in Sunderland FILM producer Leo Pearlman hopes to create one of Europe’s biggest film and television studios in Sunderland. Talking to the Guardian in late December, Pearlman, whose productions have won Emmys, Grammys, National Film Awards and Brit Awards, insisted there was nothing to stop Sunderland from becoming the new Hollywood. He is a managing partner at Fulwell 73, a company with offices in Los Angeles, London and Sunderland that was founded by Pearlman and a group of friends who include James Corden.

LEO PEARLMAN: Producer plans to open studios in Sunderland.

“There’s no point in having dreams unless they are wild,” Pearlman declared. Plans for the £450 million (€518.3 million) film studios located at the Crown Works, where cranes were built in the past, were submitted for planning permission in November. The site where 20 sound stages will one day occupy a 1.68-million square foot (1.56-million square metre) has enormous potential, Pearlman said, with the future studios creating more than 8,000 jobs and contributing £334 million (€384.7 million) to the local economy each year.

But Hollywood will come to Sunderland only if the UK government invests in the project, he continued. “We are looking for the government to put in less than £20 million (€23 million) a year over 10 years, against an annual GVA (gross value added) of £350 million (€403 million) to the region.” It looks as though this could be forthcoming. Last November, Jeremy Hunt mentioned during a visit to Sunderland, that the 2023 blockbuster Barbie was shot in Hertfordshire. “Next time, let’s have a Sunderland Barbie,” the Chancellor said.

Instability boosts arms exports SPAIN’S arms exports have soared as conflict increased globally. In 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine, Spanish companies exported materiel worth €4.09 billion. This was 24.3 per cent up on 2021 and exceeded only by 2017’s total of €4.34 billion, according to official figures submitted to Spain’s central parliament. In all likelihood 2023 will set another record, as arms exports had already reached €1.75 billion by the end of the first half of the year, 35.5 per cent more than during the same period in 2022.

Pre-election tax cuts ACCORDING to the UK media, Downing Street is deliberating whether to scrap inheritance tax. Although this affects only 4 per cent of British families, axing it in next March’s Budget is viewed as a pre-election sweetener to enhance Rishi Sunak’s chances of victory. It would be just one of several tax cuts under discussion by senior government figures. This is in line with Sunak’s orders for a visible shift on taxes, after having prioritised a reduction in inflation over reducing the tax burden when he took over as prime minister.

Photo credit: CC/Zarateman

Black market

euroweeklynews.com • 4 - 10 January 2024

Photo credit: Sunderland Culture

BUSINESS EXTRA

ARMS INDUSTRY: Indra is a leading Spanish manufacturer.

Military aircraft, including cargo planes and Airbus tanker jets for refuelling in mid-air, accounted for 63

per cent of Spain’s defence exports in 2022, and 53 per cent during the first six months of 2023. The same parliamentary report revealed that Spain approved arms’ sales to Ukraine amounting to €515.8 million over the last 18 months. Of this, €134 million had been supplied by last July. Poland sold more materiel to Kyiv in 2023 than any other European country, followed by France, Czechia, Netherlands, Lithuania and Spain. This list did not include Germany which has not submitted figures, according to a report compiled by Brussels.

IVA changes THE Spanish government is increasing the 5 per cent value-added IVA tax on electricity to 10 per cent. This reduction from 21 to 5 per cent, introduced to tackle inflation and spiralling energy costs following the Ukraine invasion, was due to end on December 31. It is now scheduled to continue throughout 2024, although IVA on other fuel prices will rise progressively, with gas at 10 per cent until the end of 2024’s first quarter, after which it will gradually return to 21 per cent. Basic foodstuffs like milk, bread, eggs, cheese, pulses and vegetables will remain IVA-free, with the current 5 per cent for cooking oils and pasta unchanged. Public transport subsidies will continue, with free Renfe local and regional trains available under the same conditions as at present.

No closures HSBC pledged that there would be no new branch closures in 2024. The bank has closed 736 branches in Britain since 2015 although data from the Which? consumer group showed that NatWest and Barclays had shut more. In his festive message to customers, Jose Carvalho, HSBC’s Wealth and Personal Banking chief in the UK, said the bank would “expand community locations up and down the country” by introducing pop-up branches and banking hubs. Carvalho also thanked HSBC customers for “trusting the bank with their money” while admitting that there had been times in 2023 “when we could have done better.”

Win & lose some DIGI’S good results continued to impact on Spain’s other telecoms companies last year. The Romania-based company came out tops in portability in 2023, acquiring 766,000 mobile and landline customers from rivals, mostly Vodafone España. Instead of the hoped-for recovery following its €5 billion purchase by Zegona in September, Vodafone lost 598,000 mobile lines. Movistar lost 273,000 and Orange 185,000 while MasMovil - which has 15.8 million lines and still awaits its Orange merger - gained 50,000 mobile lines and 7,000 mobile lines. Telefonica lost 216,500 landlines and 56,500 mobile lines but is concentrating on its high-value clients while promoting the Movistar Plus digital television platform.

Not rubbish FCC Environmental Services won a $575 million (€525.3 million) waste management contract in Florida. The company, a subsidiary of FCC Servicios Medio Ambiente, will collect rubbish from 111,000 homes in St Johns County (Florida) once contracts with the two companies currently providing the service expire in July 2024. The local authorities in St Johns County explained that FCC Environmental Services’ offer was “significantly lower” than the other companies’, although these later questioned how FCC could put in such a low bid. The Spanish company is already responsible for collecting rubbish from 500,000 Florida homes.

Cash injection US-BASED investment firm Stonepeak will invest £450 million (€518.3 million) into the AA breakdown service. City sources quoted by Sky News in late December said Stonepeak’s 15 per cent AA stake was due to be announced “very shortly.” Towerbrook and Warburg Pincus will retain their positions as majority shareholders after the consortium purchased the then-struggling AA for £219 million (€252.3 million) in 2021. As a result of the sale, the AA was de-listed from the London Stock Exchange where it was active for seven years.

14 EWN 4 - 10 January 2024

euroweeklynews.com II FINANCE

LONDON - FTSE 100

Closing Prices 2 January

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

3I Group.....................................2.431,50.............. -6,00.............-0,25%............ 4,55K

InterContinental..........................7.110,0...............+18,0............ +0,25%........... 1,29K

Abrdn.......................................... 179,95................+0,40............ +0,22%.......... 17,04K

Intermediate Capital...................1.682,00..............+3,50............ +0,21%........... 4,03K

Admiral Group.............................2.705,0................ -1,0..............-0,04%............ 2,98K

Intertek........................................4.280,0...............+19,0............ +0,45%........... 2,16K

Anglo American...........................1.999,4...............+14,6............ +0,74%.......... 59,65K

ITV............................................... 63,06................. -0,28.............-0,44%........... 54,08K

Antofagasta................................1.701,00.............. -6,50.............-0,38%........... 58,48K

J Sainsbury................................. 299,40................+0,10............ +0,03%........... 7,23K

Ashtead Group............................5.472,0...............+22,0............ +0,40%........... 3,62K

Johnson Matthey........................1.716,5................+7,0............. +0,41%........... 1,51K

Associated British Foods.............2.372,0................+3,0............. +0,13%........... 7,30K

Land Securities........................... 712,80................ -3,60.............-0,50%........... 17,16K

AstraZeneca...............................10.534,0.............. -40,0.............-0,38%........... 11,68K

Legal & General.......................... 251,10................ -0,20.............-0,08%.......... 136,48K

Auto Trader Group Plc................ 718,80................+0,80............ +0,11%.......... 10,03K Aviva........................................... 432,80................ -0,30.............-0,07%........... 33,49K B&M European Value Retail SA... 559,20................ -2,80.............-0,50%........... 19,79K BAE Systems..............................1.103,00..............+2,00............ +0,18%.......... 49,20K Barclays...................................... 153,14................ -0,32.............-0,21%.......... 209,49K Barratt Developments................. 562,40.................0,00.............. 0,00%........... 11,30K Berkeley......................................4.728,0................ -9,0..............-0,19%............ 2,55K BHP Group Ltd...........................2.698,00...............0,00.............. 0,00%........... 10,76K BP............................................... 461,45................ -3,75.............-0,81%.......... 397,35K British American Tobacco...........2.285,0................+2,5............. +0,11%.......... 33,06K British Land Company................. 402,30................ -3,50.............-0,86%........... 23,91K BT Group.................................... 122,65................ -0,30.............-0,24%........... 89,71K Bunzl...........................................3.202,0................+4,0............. +0,12%........... 2,00K Burberry Group...........................1.421,0................+8,0............. +0,57%.......... 10,38K Carnival.......................................1.320,5................+3,0............. +0,23%........... 4,44K Centrica....................................... 141,40................ -0,15.............-0,11%........... 89,11K Coca Cola HBC AG......................2.295,0................+8,0............. +0,35%........... 1,14K Compass....................................2.148,00..............+4,00............ +0,19%.......... 19,04K CRH............................................5.392,0................ -2,0..............-0,04%............ 3,96K Croda Intl....................................5.074,0.................0,0............... 0,00%............ 2,17K DCC.............................................5.800,0...............+46,0............ +0,80%........... 0,69K Diageo.........................................2.855,0................+6,5............. +0,23%.......... 43,26K DS Smith.................................... 310,70................+0,90............ +0,29%.......... 19,29K EasyJet........................................ 509,80................ -1,00.............-0,20%........... 14,64K Experian......................................3.217,0................+9,0............. +0,28%.......... 11,08K Ferguson....................................15.105,0.............. -10,0.............-0,07%............ 0,73K

Lloyds Banking............................ 47,76................. -0,20.............-0,43%............1,74M London Stock Exchange..............9.284,0............... -10,0.............-0,11%............ 8,24K Melrose Industries...................... 569,60................ -1,00.............-0,17%............ 8,34K Mondi.........................................1.548,00.............. -3,00.............-0,19%............ 9,88K National Grid..............................1.063,56..............+5,50............ +0,52%.......... 57,29K NatWest Group........................... 218,00................ -0,30.............-0,14%.......... 236,10K Next............................................8.132,0............... -14,0.............-0,17%............ 1,19K Ocado.......................................... 748,20................ -2,80.............-0,37%........... 11,34K Persimmon.................................1.380,0................ -3,0..............-0,22%............ 3,51K Phoenix....................................... 533,20................ -0,40.............-0,07%........... 15,55K Prudential.................................... 878,40................+0,20............ +0,02%.......... 62,88K Reckitt Benckiser........................5.442,0................ -6,0..............-0,11%........... 12,85K Relx............................................3.117,00.............+24,00........... +0,78%.......... 17,78K Rentokil....................................... 446,40................+2,80............ +0,63%.......... 55,78K Rightmove.................................. 577,00................+2,60............ +0,45%........... 7,00K Rio Tinto PLC..............................5.861,0................+1,0............. +0,02%.......... 17,20K Rolls-Royce Holdings................. 298,00................ -0,10.............-0,03%.......... 203,43K Sage...........................................1.182,00..............+0,50............ +0,04%.......... 51,21K Samsung Electronics DRC.........1.492,00............. -14,00............-0,93%............ 2,87K Schroders.................................... 435,8.................. -0,8..............-0,18%........... 12,40K Scottish Mortgage....................... 807,26................+1,60............ +0,20%.......... 38,22K Segro.......................................... 893,80................ -3,00.............-0,33%........... 13,35K Severn Trent...............................2.606,0...............+13,0............ +0,50%........... 4,03K Shell............................................2.547,5................ -1,5..............-0,06%.......... 129,09K Smith & Nephew........................1.077,39..............+1,00............ +0,09%........... 7,99K Smiths Group.............................1.767,50..............+4,50............ +0,26%........... 2,09K Spirax-Sarco Engineering..........10.535,0..............+25,0............ +0,24%........... 0,37K

Flutter Entertainment..................13.891,6..............+55,0............ +0,40%........... 7,06K

SSE............................................1.867,00.............+10,50........... +0,57%.......... 14,30K

Fresnillo...................................... 590,40................+0,20............ +0,03%.......... 14,05K

St. James’s Place........................ 679,67................ -1,40.............-0,21%............ 6,52K

Glencore...................................... 472,30................+2,25............ +0,48%......... 381,44K

Standard Chartered..................... 657,80................+2,60............ +0,40%.......... 20,36K

GSK plc......................................1.452,20.............. -9,00.............-0,62%........... 35,28K

Taylor Wimpey............................ 144,80................ -0,15.............-0,10%........... 65,29K

Halma..........................................2.300,0................+5,0............. +0,22%........... 5,79K

Tesco.......................................... 290,00................+1,00............ +0,35%......... 214,06K

Hargreaves Lansdown................. 722,40................ -1,40.............-0,19%............ 5,13K

Tui............................................... 618,70................ -2,50.............-0,40%........... 27,72K

Hikma Pharma...........................1.761,00.............. -3,50.............-0,20%............ 0,64K

Unilever.......................................3.811,0................ -1,5..............-0,04%........... 27,09K

HSBC.......................................... 632,60................+1,00............ +0,16%......... 304,22K

United Utilities............................1.067,00..............+6,50............ +0,61%.......... 13,41K

IAG.............................................. 156,16................ -0,30.............-0,19%........... 77,67K

Vodafone Group PLC.................. 68,320............... -0,030............-0,04%.......... 329,75K

Imperial Brands..........................1.799,00..............+1,00............ +0,06%.......... 25,29K

Whitbread...................................3.630,9...............+12,0............ +0,33%........... 5,07K

Informa....................................... 776,20................+1,60............ +0,21%.......... 19,03K

WPP............................................ 750,40................ -1,60.............-0,21%........... 26,08K

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1.15185

Units per € US dollar (USD)...................................1.1074 Japan yen (JPY)...................................156.61 Switzerland franc (CHF).......................0.9311 Denmark kroner (DKK)........................7.4530 Norway kroner (NOK)..........................11.282 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

Closing Prices 2 January 3M.............................................. 109,71................+0,97............ +0,89%...........2,35M American Express....................... 187,86................+0,80............ +0,43%...........1,45M Amgen........................................ 288,46................+1,93............ +0,67%...........1,21M Apple........................................... 193,58................+0,43............ +0,22%..........33,79M Boeing......................................... 260,42................ -1,68.............-0,64%............4,95M Caterpillar.................................... 296,76................ -1,36.............-0,46%............2,23M Chevron...................................... 149,80................ -2,11.............-1,39%............7,31M Cisco............................................ 50,48.................+0,04............ +0,08%...........8,51M Coca-Cola..................................... 58,76.................+0,05............ +0,09%...........8,13M Dow............................................. 55,23................. -0,48.............-0,86%............2,12M Goldman Sachs........................... 386,56................+2,08............ +0,54%...........1,01M Home Depot................................ 347,36................ -1,17.............-0,34%............2,81M Honeywell................................... 209,17................+0,15............ +0,07%...........1,64M IBM............................................. 163,77................+0,31............ +0,19%...........1,68M Intel.............................................. 50,39................. -0,37.............-0,73%...........27,21M J&J............................................. 156,61................+0,26............ +0,17%...........3,38M JPMorgan................................... 170,30................+0,90............ +0,53%...........5,83M McDonald’s................................. 295,92................+1,37............ +0,47%...........1,86M Merck&Co................................... 108,82................+0,84............ +0,78%...........5,21M Microsoft.................................... 375,28................+1,21............ +0,32%..........14,18M Nike............................................. 108,84................+1,71............ +1,60%...........9,11M Procter&Gamble......................... 145,75................ -0,31.............-0,21%............4,78M Salesforce Inc............................. 265,63................ -1,09.............-0,41%............2,67M The Travelers.............................. 189,31................+0,69............ +0,37%......... 562,04K UnitedHealth............................... 525,00................+2,21............ +0,42%...........1,46M Verizon......................................... 37,51.................+0,20............ +0,54%..........14,32M Visa A.......................................... 260,32................+1,39............ +0,54%...........2,36M Walgreens Boots.......................... 26,60................. -0,04.............-0,15%............7,89M Walmart...................................... 157,65................ -0,23.............-0,15%............5,40M Walt Disney.................................. 90,42.................+0,04............ +0,04%...........7,52M M - Million Dollars

NASDAQ

Closing Prices 2 January

Company

Change Net / %

Volume

Most Advanced Iovance Biotherapeutics, Inc............................+18.67%........................18.003M China Resources Beer Company Lmtd..............+6.90%.......................... 27,196 DISH Network Corporation................................+6.79%.........................16.948M Bilibili Inc..........................................................+6.47%..........................11.57M PENN Entertainment, Inc...................................+6.36%..........................6.935M Geely Automobile Holdings Limited..................+6.05%.......................... 35,637 Luckin Coffee Inc..............................................+5.80%..........................2.399M Lions Gate Entertainment Corp.........................+5.46%......................... 773,142 Ping An Insurance Company of China, Ltd........+5.18%......................... 474,594 Lions Gate Entertainment Corp.........................+5.00%......................... 938,525 M - Million Dollars

Most Declined NeoGenomics, Inc...............................................-3.71...........................-18.10% Galaxy Digital Holdings Ltd.................................-1.07...........................-11.54% Gold Fields Limited.............................................-1.73...........................-10.72% Marathon Digital Holdings, Inc............................-2.96............................-9.53% Grand Canyon Education, Inc..............................-9.00............................-6.36% Upstart Holdings, Inc..........................................-2.76............................-5.88% Riot Platforms, Inc..............................................-1.02............................-5.48% LiveWire Group, Inc............................................-0.64............................-5.37% Anglo American Platinum Limited.......................-0.46............................-5.21% Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc.............................-2.56............................-5.16% Axsome Therapeutics, Inc...................................-3.99............................-4.77% M - Million Dollars

FINANCE II euroweeklynews.com ASK THE EXPERT PETER LOVEDAY Peter Loveday Contact me at euroweekly@currenciesdirect.com Contact me at

Euro EUR/GBP: Down from £0.87 to £0.86 EUR/USD: Unchanged at $1.09 The euro traded in a wide range over the past month, in response to fluctuating expectations for European Central Bank (ECB) monetary policy in 2024. As we transitioned into December, a weaker-than-expected Eurozone inflation print sparked speculation that the ECB may start cutting interest rates early next year, which dragged on EUR exchange rates. Underwhelming German data stoked fears that the Eurozone’s largest economy may slip into a recession, which acted as a headwind for the single currency through the first half of December. The euro then rebounded in the middle of the month as the ECB kept interest rates on hold and ECB President Christine Lagarde dismissed speculation that the bank was discussing rate cuts. The single currency maintained

4 - 10 January 2024

EURO BOLSTERED BY HAWKISH ECB, US DOLLAR SLUMPS ON FED RATE CUT BETS this positive trajectory in the runup to Christmas following hawkish speeches from several ECB policymakers which saw them also push back on rate cut speculation. As we enter 2024, EUR investors will be keeping a close eye on key Eurozone data releases for December, with the bloc’s latest inflation and PMI figures likely to inform ECB monetary policy at the bank’s January meeting. Pound GBP/EUR: Up from €1.14 to €1.15 GBP/USD: Up from $1.24 to $1.26 The pound raced higher as November ended following a series of hawkish remarks from Bank of England (BoE) policymakers. This upside in Sterling was reinforced by some surprisingly upbeat UK PMI releases, which helped to ease fears of a winter recession. Limited UK data then left the pound directionless through the first half of December, while a dovish tilt to a speech from BoE Governor Andrew Bailey also limited GBP demand.

NEW YEAR: Investors will be keeping a close eye on Eurozone data.

A mixed UK jobs report, coupled with a surprise contraction in UK GDP in October, exerted some pressure on Sterling in mid-December, before GBP exchange rates soared on the back of the BoE’s final policy decision of the year. While the BoE left rates on hold as expected, the pound rallied as the bank sought to firmly dispel rate cut speculation. However, a much sharper-than-expected cooling of inflation weakened BoE expectations and slashed Sterling’s gains. Sterling may maintain a similarly positive trajectory in January, assu-

ming that BoE officials continue to push back on rate cut speculation. Although underwhelming UK data may continue to limit the pound’s potential. US Dollar USD/GBP: Down from $0.80 to $0.78 USD/EUR: Unchanged at €0.91 Trade in the US dollar has been notably volatile over the past month amid fluctuating expectations for when the Federal Reserve will begin cutting interest rates. At the end of November, we saw USD exchange rates falter as mixed US PMIs bolstered Fed rate cut spe-

EWN 15

culation. But the US dollar was quick to recover at the start of December as stronger-than-expected US GDP and signs of sticky inflation helped to deter rate cut bets. The ‘greenback’ found further support from the latest US non-farm payrolls report, as a larger-than-expected increase in US job creation also saw investors rein in rate cut expectations. However, USD then plunged to multi-month lows in the wake of the Fed’s final interest rate decision of the year due to notably dovish comments from Fed Chair Jerome Powell. While Fed policymakers have sought to push back against rate cut speculation, the odds of a March rate cut now sit at around 75%. Unless something changes this narrative, this could see the US dollar remain on the back foot through January. Currencies Direct have helped over 430,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

VISIT US AT OUR SPANISH OFFICES IN COSTA DEL SOL, COSTA ALMERIA, NORTH COSTA BLANCA AND SOUTH COSTA BLANCA. TELEPHONE UK +44 (0) 207 847 9400 SPAIN +34 950 478 914 • EMAIL EUROWEEKLY@CURRENCIESDIRECT.COM • WWW.CURRENCIESDIRECT.COM.

euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE/NEWS

Good luck young man! LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT I’VE always been partial to a game of darts. Mind you my skill in the ‘little arrows’ (har har) department, does leave a great deal to be desired. In fact this particular sport was actually the initiator of one of my biggest embarrassments ever. Back in ’69 we had been booked for a tour of Southern Ireland. Not being one of the pop singing fraternities who travelled to venues by private jet or Rolls Royce, I happily joined the band in the far more exhilarating ‘on the road’ atmosphere of the group’s transit van, which subsequently found us all heading across Wales to join the Fishguard to Rosslare ferry. As it didn’t embark till the following morning we duly checked into a local hotel. That evening we decided to have a few jars in the bar and It was packed. Apparently it was also the location for the area darts team and a very popular venue for residents. After a few beers and friendly introductions, the

team captain invited me to take part in a game of ‘Round the Board’ with the locals. Happily satiated with the brandy, I accepted the offer and joined a line of some 20 players to take a turn. Now, it is a somewhat unfamiliar occurrence, but to those who can sup a jar or two, just occasionally a real skin full can somehow heighten the senses and at times even rivet the mind to an almost remarkable degree of concentration - and that’s precisely what enveloped the ol boy. Experiencing a dart board now looking the size of Big Ben, I simply couldn’t miss. With a final flourish of a double, a treble and a bullseye I somewhat remarkably emerged the ultimate winner. Receiving some quite unexpected applause from the customers, I was subsequently approached by the team captain. In a state of almost awed wonderment he informed me that my game was the greatest they had ever experienced in the bar and would I please accept his personal set of tungsten darts to remember the occasion by? I just couldn’t believe it. Somewhat

reluctantly I accepted his truly generous offer and the rest of the evening of course disintegrated into a complete memory loss occasion and we all retired in a haze of good wishes and luck for the future. Some six months later we were rebooked for another Irish tour. Somewhat against my self-assurance, this found us checking in to the same hotel of the previous trip. Unfortunately, with the space left the ol boy can’t reveal the outcome of this visit, but it will possibly involve a very satisfying peruse next week. Just desserts? Probably! This does however give me the opportunity to congratulate the young 16-year-old Luke Littler, who at the time of writing has reached the quarter finals of the world pro dart championships. This young lad has simply brushed aside a number of top players and by the time you read this could actually be overall champion. Good luck young man, just go easy on the drinks that’s all. 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.

Chef receives death threats

HE was treated to an avalanche of insults and Chef, Luca Cesari said: “They wished me dead.” His crime? He used Swiss Gruyere cheese in the classic Italian dish of pasta carbonara. The preparation of carbonara has always been a delicate subject. There are contrasting opinions on the subject: some use only guanciale (lard), others use bacon, and so on. Luca Cesari, a gastronomy historian, wanted to experiment with an old recipe for the famous dish, which dates back to 1954, and which uses garlic, Gruyere and bacon. As reported by an Italian newspaper, people had an extreme reaction, even going so far as to threaten the cook. The respected chef said, “They wished me dead or to go to jail.” I simply dared to do something that seemed trivial to me: to take the

Photo: Facebook / Luca Cesari

16 EWN 4 - 10 January 2024

Using Gruyere cheese?

first recipe for carbonara published in Italy, which appeared in the magazine La Cucina Italiana in 1954, and make it today. But since there is bacon, garlic and Gruyere cheese in this recipe, this made people a little crazy.” Luca Cesari was shocked after reading the comments of some on social media: “When they used words like ‘die’ to me, well, I honestly didn’t expect it,” he said. In Italy there are rules about food and you break them at your peril. Maybe then it’s best not to get into the pineapple on pizza argument!

INTERVIEW

Karolina from Lithuania Every year more and more people from all over Europe move to the sunny coast of Spain, one of those travelling souls is Lithuanian born, Karolina Da. EURO WEEKLY NEWS caught loves “Spanish culture and the up with Karolina, to ask attitude towards children.” her about her move When we inquired as here over seven years to her least favourite ago. part she paused befoShe told us that re answering, finally she “always had a admitting that it was nice feeling about “probably the legal Spain, but Marbella I system,” explaining heard was a very costhat “sometimes you mopolitan city, clean, adhave to wait a long time to vanced and beautiful, that get an appointment.” Loves the mountains. was the reason why I chose The biggest difference Marbella.” between her hometown in Lithuania and When asked what her first impression here in Marbella is “the weather of courwas, she responded, “I loved the moun- se! Because of this, in my hometown all tains and sea view straight away. I could the action happens indoors, while here feel the salty air that reminded me of ho- everything is mostly outdoors.” lidays.” Smiling that, “well life is like a holiFinally, we asked Karolina after seven day here if you get too lazy!” years where her favourite spot on the EWN asked Karolina what has changed coast is, to which she told us it was defihere in the years since she first arrived. nitely “Marbella old town.” We agree that “Firstly the population has changed remar- the beauty of Casco Antiguo is magnifikably for sure. Summers are busier and the cent! winters are busy as well, which wasn’t so Karolina plans to continue her life here seven years ago.” for the foreseeable future, with her two Her favourite thing about the coast is “of handsome sons and British husband, Nacourse the climate,” adding that she also vid.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM

20 EWN 4 - 10 January 2024

euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE

COMMUNITY

COMMENTS

ON December 31, 2023, we suggested that water will be the most precious asset in 2024 (visit the Euro Weekly News website to read the story) and this attracted a large number of reader’s comments. Many believe that the main reason is the amount of development that has taken place over the past 20 years and as soon as there is a shortage of rain, the reservoirs simply can’t cope. Others suggest that the growing number of golf courses sees even more water being used in order to ensure that the courses stay green and this encourages more tourists.

“

Andalucia’s population has grown hugely since 1961 and they are still encouraging tourists even though they are suffering a significant shortage of water. Surely if the area is running out of water they should be discouraging people from visiting the place at present. Sheree Ruiz

Sheree Ruiz and build more storage facilities. Michael Lindsay

And not to forget all the new developments that are being built !!! Surely if there was a problem with supply that should reflect in the planning permissions given to developers in my opinion. Glenn Aland

Glenn Aland duh, that’s too sensible!!

Nigel Baker

Because of all the new building an easy option would be to increase the size of the reservoirs where possible, a few days with a JCB, not expensive. Jenny Church

For sure it will be.

Trisha Rodgers

Water has always been the most precious asset and there’s still people irrigating their gardens with potable water whilst mine looks half dead due to lack of rainfall. And I expect golf courses are still being irrigated, though allegedly 80 per cent use recycled water. What about the other 20 per cent? Brenda Jones

Water, or the lack of it in the right places, will destroy the world . Norman Waterhouse

Never seen so little rain in 10 years of living in Spain. There’s definitely a big problem. Particularly for farmers. But maybe they are to blame in the first place. There were rivers in this area before intensive farming and ploughing dust. Ruby’s Kennels

Agenda 30!

Amanda Isbitt

Can someone tell me why there’s millions of litres of clean water running in to the sea at Kalafto every day for years? Donald Delanougerede

Our town near Martos had overnight cuts for weeks. A week ago the cuts have started again this time earlier than midnight. Told not to empty swimming pools or if empty not to fill them. Tonight for New Year the water is not rationed. Tim McMahon

Tim McMahon but it does fall mainly on the plain. Andrew Field

Andrew Field, how musical a reply but it’s a drought everywhere. Affecting everything, agriculture and house supplies. We should be singing ‘Singing in the Rain’ but not any for months. Tim McMahon

Maybe golf courses can spare some of the water they use to keep their greens so green. Michael Hannis

Michael Hannis most golf courses use re-sanitised water not clean water. Lisa Blyth

Lisa Blyth you don’t think that water would be better used on food crops? Michael Hannis

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 • 4 - 10 January 2024 SPONSORED BY

THE Animal Welfare Law, effective a few months ago, has introduced significant alterations in pet care, particularly for dogs during car travel. The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT), led by Pere Navarro, stressed: “Animals that are not carried properly in the vehicle represent a significant risk of injury to all their occupants.” However, the DGT hasn’t provided detailed guidelines, leaving it to the law itself to clarify. Article 18.1 of the Ani-

Credit: eva_blanco/Shuttersock.com

New rules for car travel Cat finds a new home

NEW RULES: Jack Russell safely secured.

mal Welfare Law requires drivers to ensure pets are comfortably and safely po-

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

sitioned in the vehicle. This is crucial to avoid any interference with the driver. Dogs must have adequate space, with advice on addressing their physiological needs such as water, food and regular breaks. During summer, proper air conditioning and ventilation are essential for their well-being. The law also mandates suﬃcient rest periods for dogs, alongside access to water and food, ensuring their health isn’t compro-

mised. Carrying the dog’s documentation is another key requirement. According to the DGT, ‘dogs usually go in a carrier in the back, ﬁxed to the seats, or with a device that anchors them to the seat belts, which must be a harness, not a collar.’ This two-hook harness prevents the dog from moving forward, ensuring no undue pressure is placed on the driver. A short connection system is advised to prevent the pet from hitting the front seats. This legislative change aims to enhance road safety and animal welfare, ensuring pets are treated with care and respect during travel, with hefty ﬁnes up to €10,000 for non-compliance. It’s a step forward in acknowledging the needs of our canine companions, and integrating them more safely and comfortably into our journeys.

A FORMERLY fat street cat that became the top-rated tourist attraction in the Polish city of Szczecin has recently found a new home. Gacek, a blackGACEK: Lived on the streets. and-white cat who lived in a covered wooden box on the city’s Kaszubska Street for years, has also slimmed down since shooting to fame in a YouTube video. The clip, which has around one million views, shows the cat going about his daily life and receiving plenty of attention from locals. An Instagram account documenting his life currently has around 40,000 followers. Gacek and his wooden box gained thousands of reviews and a five-star rating on Google Maps, making him the highest-rated ‘tourist attraction’ in the city. One listing for Gacek reportedly had around 2,500 reviews before it was removed. According to a news source, locals expressed concerns over the cat’s health after he experienced problems with his teeth and joints. The city’s Animal Welfare Association took him in to be treated, then announced he had found a new home in September 2023. In a more recent Facebook post, the Association gave an update on Gacek’s situation, which read: “I’m no longer Gacek. From today, call me George.... George Clooney in the cat version, that’s the new me! The post also urged people to donate cat food in order to help other cats, saying “the shelves near their cages are empty” and they are “sitting in cages, waiting to be adopted”.

Charlie needs a dog-sitter a few times CHARLIE is a Cavapoo who simply loves company. He loves to have the friendship of a dog-sitter to be with him when his owner goes away. As a young and active Cavapoo he needs at least two long walks a day and a lot of stimulating play in between. He’s a playful dog who benefits from a regular daily routine so house-sitting with a resident dogsitter 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

Do you have a dog like Charlie needing a companion when you’re away?

our pet and house-sitting network, and the sitters come for free! Choose Housesitmatch. com for aﬀordable travel, home and pet care. These are the steps to take: 1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSit Match.com 2. Choose a Standard account (£69 per year) to

ensure you can help online when needed 3. Create a proﬁle with photos of your pet and the house 4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose. 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. Housesitmatch.com.

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

CLASSIFIEDS AWNINGS

BLINDS SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for large glazed areas to reflect heat / glare and stop furniture fading and still keep the view. SAVE HEAT IN THE WINTER to improve your living environment. ian@ solarshadetinting.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (287972)

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

CHARITY New Life Church Whether you live in Nerja or are visiting our area, you are very welcome to come and join us at our Sunday gathering. Join us for a time of Holy Spirit led worship and experience the presence of

our God. Our teaching is Bible based as we honour God and obey His Word. During this time of uncertainty, God’s Word reminds us that the Gospel shines brightest in times of darkness. Our service lasts for about 1 hour and 30 mins. With Tea and Coffee afterwards. Sunday Service 11.00am; Prayer Meetings Wednesdays 11.00am; Pasaje San Miguel, Nerja, 29780 Email: info@ nlcnerja.com Website: w w w. n l c n e r j a . c o m Facebook:www.facebook. com/nlcnerj

in Charge, Father Nigel Thomas. Tel: Church House 951 815 736, Mobile: 608 695 756, e-mail: cofenerja@gmail. com.

CARS FOR SALE

THE ANGLICAN Chaplaincy of Nerja & Almunecar. Every Sunday there is a Holy Communion service at midday in San Miguel church in Nerja. Every Wednesday morning at 9.30 we have an online ‘Zoom’ HC service - please contact Fr Nigel with an e-mail address if you would like to join us. Priest

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

MOTORING

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

CHARITY Shop Pocapecunia we need things for the house/kitchen, decoration, vases, plates, cups, saucers, kitchen tools, paintings, pottery pots and pans etc. Prolongacion Avd. Rodgriguez Acosta, Nr the Parador Roundabout, opposite café Trébol, Nerja (294373)

CHURCH SERVICES

4 - 10 January 2024

OTHERS

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

INSURANCE STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www. abbeygateinsure.com

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

SITUATIONS VACANT DISTRIBUTION DRIVERS wanted for Costa del Sol and Costa Tropical. One day per week. Must be legal to work in Spain, have own transport, know the areas and be reliable. Please send CV with covering letter to Martyn by email distribution@ demon-distribution.com (292475)

SOLAR ENERGY SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for Large Glazed Areas to Reflect Heat / Glare and Stop Furniture Fading and Still Keep The View. Save Heat in the Winter to Improve Your Living Environment. ian@solarshade tinting.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (258409)

WINDOW TINTING

MOBILE SERVICE. ITV Legal. Solar Reflective tint for glass curtains, balconies, yachts. Stop fading, heat & glare. 958 496 571 - 644 546 176 ian@ solarshadetinting.com (287972)

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MOTORING II euroweeklynews.com

ROAD TEST By Mark Slack WHEN does a car become interesting? To some it will be practicality, others economics, driveability will hit the spot for some and of course style plays a big part too. So many things make a car interesting but as the car industry continues to contract and merge, with the onset of EVs, many cars share the same underpinnings and consequently drive very much alike. Therefore style becomes a particularly strong selling point to differentiate one purchase from another. Korean manufacturer Hyundai is part of a large manufacturing group that incorporates Hyundai, Kia and Genesis in their automotive arm. Hyundai in particular has garnered a reputation for styling eye catching cars that don’t tend to fall into being marmite cars i.e. you either love ‘em or hate ‘em. While styling is always down to personal taste most people I have met when driving

4 - 10 January 2024

EWN 23

Hyundai Kona Hybrid - a perfect package Hyundai cars, and my own acquaintances, view them as pleasingly different and or very stylish. The Kona range may not be as radical as the Ioniq 6 but still has head turning ability with its chunky looks and bold stance. Prices start from €29,671/£25,725 and the whole gamut of engine power is on offer. There are petrol, mild hybrid, hybrid and all-electric

KONA HYBRID: Has practicality on its side.

FACTS AT GLANCE

MODEL: HYUNDAI KONA N-LINE S FULL HYBRID ENGINE: 1.6-LITRE PETROL, WITH ELECTRIC MOTOR, DEVELOPING 141PS GEARS: 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC PRICE: €39,475/£34,225 PERFORMANCE: 0-100KPH/62MPH 11.2 SECONDS/MAXIMUM SPEED 193KPH/100MPH ECONOMY: 4.7 L/100KM/60.1MPG COMBINED DRIVING – WLTP EMISSIONS: 106 G/KM – WLTP MODEL TESTED WAS UK-SPECIFICATION AND EQUIPMENT LEVELS AND PRICES MAY VARY IN OTHER MARKETS.

DURING a week in November, the General Directorate of Traffic launched an extensive surveillance campaign. It targeted the vast number of vans on the roads, in which they paid particular attention to the mandatory Technical Vehicle Inspection, according to a recent report. There are approximately two and a half million vans that circulate on Spanish roads, a figure which represents seven per cent of the total vehicles. Among the inspected vans, a startling 28.3 per cent, amounting to 2,354 drivers, were reported for driving without a valid MOT. Furthermore, 325 vans were found with tyres in poor condition, while another 218 were deemed unfit for the road and immobilised. The Guardia Civil Traffic Group was involved in inspecting 137,143 vans, which is almost 13,000 more than in 2022. They discovered 8,319 drivers violating various traffic laws. Speeding, often above the permitted limits of 90km/h on motorways and 80km/h on conventional roads, was a common offence, with 1,852 drivers reported. Another alarming discovery was the number of drivers under the influence. Out of the drivers tested within the seven day period, 371 tested positive, with 121

Credit: Interior.gob.es

Frightening statistics

Image capture of van surveillance.

for alcohol and 250 for other drugs, which poses a significant risk to road safety. Additionally, 492 occupants were reprimanded for not using seat belts, an essential safety feature. Vehicle loading was another key focus, with 451 drivers reported for exceeding their vehicle’s weight limit and 305 for improper load arrangement. Ineffective load management can have serious repercussions in case of an accident. Lastly, documentation irregularities led to 551 complaints, and 204 drivers were cited for lacking mandatory insurance. These surprising figures highlight the importance of adhering to regulatory standards for safe driving.

with either a 1.0T three-cylinder petrol engine in both manual and automatic transmission or a 1.6-litre petrol. In EV form there’s a 48.4 kwh or 65.4 kwh battery with a range of 376km/234 miles or 513km/319 miles respectively. Looking like a mini SUV the Kona has practicality on its side with decent luggage space, very good interior space for passengers and storage for all the in-car oddments that seem to

accumulate from nowhere. There’s a distinctly premium feel in both the look and feel of the Kona, it drives with a refined and comfortable ride and while no performance machine it is more than capable of holding its own. Standard fare across the board includes climate, smart cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, keyless entry and start, auto lights and wipers and powered, heated and folding door mirrors. On my N-Line S this was upgraded to include such items as heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, Bose sound system and a nicely done external styling kit. Such things can look a little downmarket but Hyundai have endowed the N-Line with a subtle and stylish aethstetic upgrade. If you want practicality, while dipping your motoring toes into greener motoring, then the Kona Hybrid is a perfect package.

that synthetic fuels could substitute traditional fossil fuels. This flexibility allows combustion cars to remain on the market after the deadline of 2035, under the condition they are adapted for synthetic

fuel use. Spain had set 2040 as the deadline to ban combustion vehicle sales, aligning with the Climate Change and Energy Transition Law. However, as an EU member, Spain will now adjust to the earlier 2035 EU deadline.

Deadline brought forward A RECENT report indicated that the end of diesel and petrol cars in Europe is closer than we thought. In a landmark move, the European Parliament has set 2035 as the deadline to stop the sale of new internal combustion engine vehicles in Europe. This decision originally made in June 2022, brings the deadline five years closer than its initial 2040 target. The European Parliament’s resolution marks a seismic shift for the automotive industry. Manufacturers must now aim towards electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles. Recognising the policy’s ambition, industry leaders acknowledge the significant industrial adaptation challenge it presents. Currently, the electric vehicle market has not met expectations, especially in Spain where sales are below 10 per cent of the total. This scenario has led the European Union to offer a concession. They stipulate

24 EWN 4 - 10 January 2024

World Tour THE International Cycling Union (UCI) has granted the Danish Cycling Federation a licence for an initial three years. World Tour Copenhagen, starting in Roskilde and finishing in Copenhagen, is now a reality for 2025, 2026, and 2027. The UCI World Tour cycling race includes both a race for women and for men. Here, the world’s best cyclists will compete in two professional races, starting in Roskilde and taking on the roads of Zealand with tricky Danish crosswinds, beautiful coastal stretches, and historical sights. The races conclude with a spectacular final as the field races through a challenging circuit in the streets of Copenhagen. President of the Danish Cycling Federation, Morten Anderson says: “It has been a dream for many years to secure a permanent spot at the highest level of the international cycling calendar, so it’s a big day for the Danish Cycling Federation and Danish cycling. “The awarding of the World Tour licence and the right to hold World Tour races shows that Danish cycling culture and our fantastic audience have really been noticed abroad of which we should be proud. “Having the world’s best female and male riders race on Danish roads should also support the great work in clubs and local teams, and help breed new talents, so we can continue the incredible success of Danish cycling.”

euroweeklynews.com II SPORT

Ref makes history

THE English Premier League etched a new chapter in its history books as Rebecca Welch took charge of the Fulham-Burnley clash on December 23, becoming the league’s first female referee. Welch’s milestone moment was marked by a poised and assured performance as she officiated Burnley’s 2-0 victory at Craven Cottage. Welch, already a seasoned referee, received a warm reception as she emerged onto the pitch, greeted by applause from the spectators. Her journey to this groundbreaking moment had been a series of milestones: from officiating FA Cup fixtures to commanding Championship matches. She had previously served as a fourth official in the Premier League in November, laying the groundwork for her historic debut. A referee since 2010, Welch initially balanced her officiating duties with a job in the National Health Service before committing full-time to her passion for match officiating. Her trailblazing feats included being the first woman to referee an EFL match and over-

REBECCA WELCH: Premier League’s first female referee.

THE life of a professional football manager (or coach as they are often referred to) is precarious to say the least and the latest victim is Wayne Rooney. He was appointed as Birmingham City manager just 83 days ago and in that time his team which were sitting in sixth place in the English Football League Championship (formerly the Second Division) has lost nine games out of 15 and dropped to 20th. Commenting on X (twitter) on January 2, the 38-year-old Rooney said ”I would like to thank Tom Wagner, Tom Brady and Ga-

rry Cook for the opportunity to manage Birmingham City FC and the support they all gave me during my short period with the club. “Football is a results business - and I recognise they have not been at the level I wanted them to be. “However, time is the most precious commodity a manager requires and I do not believe 13 weeks was sufficient to oversee the changes that were needed. “Personally, it will take me some time to get over this setback. I have been involved in professional football, as either a player or manager, since I was 16. “Now, I plan to take some time with my family as I prepare for the next opportunity in my journey as a manager. “Finally I wish Birmingham City FC and its owners my best wishes in the pursuit of their ambitions.” At least one of his backroom staff has also been

Credit: Wayne Rooney Facebook

Wayne Rooney sacked

The unveiling of Wayne Rooney as Birmingham manager.

given their ‘marching orders’ and it will probably be up to caretaker manager Steve Spooner to advise the owners on the others. One positive that comes

out of this and other manager’s sackings is that there is invariably a significant ‘golden farewell’ so he can at least afford to consider his future.

seeing FA Cup encounters. During the Fulham-Burnley clash, Welch confidently controlled the game, issuing bookings, including the first of her Premier League career to Fulham’s Calvin Bassey. Despite the escalating intensity, she remained a picture of calm authority, displaying astute awareness and never faltering under pressure. As the match progressed, Welch’s presence continued to command respect. A couple more yellow cards were brandished, yet her composed demeanour prevailed, earning her praise for her adept handling of the game. Welch’s seamless performance stands not just as a breakthrough for women in football but as a testament to her expertise and capability, affirming her place among the elite referees in the sport. Her debut paves the way for more inclusive representation in top-flight football, inspiring future generations of referees, regardless of gender.

Rankings reshuffle

THE Rugby World Cup 2023 had a significant impact on the World Rugby Men’s Rankings, with only two teams in the top 20 - New Zealand and England - ending the year in the same position as they started. South Africa, after successfully defending the Webb Ellis Cup, claimed the top spot, gaining 5.57 points over the year. Ireland dropped to second place after failing to progress beyond the quarter-finals. Fiji and Portugal had a notable impact on the rankings. Fiji, despite a setback against Portugal, ended the year in 10th place after gaining over one-and-a-half points and moving up four places. Portugal reached their highest-ever ranking of 13th after wins against Georgia and Fiji, along with a historic first win against Australia. Australia, having failed to qualify for the quarter-finals for the first time, dropped from sixth to ninth place. Samoa also fell in the rankings, moving from 11th to 15th. Spain fell four places to 20th after more losses than wins in 2023. In Eastern Europe, Croatia, with wins over Ukraine and Lithuania, climbed seven places to 40th. Latvia, Slovenia, and Serbia also made significant gains, with Serbia moving up eight places to 37th after winning the Victoria Cup and defeating Tunisia twice. Tunisia and Ukraine experienced double-digit falls in the rankings, being the only teams to suffer such declines in 2023.