Costa Blanca North 1 – 7 February 2024 Issue 2013 by Euro Weekly News Media S.A.

Costa Blanca

• Issue No. 2013 • 1 - 7 February 2024

GOOD LUCK, LEE ILMAINEN

GRATIS

VRIJ

FREI

Image: AKIRA

FREE

A new challenge.

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GRATUITO

G GRATIS

LIVREE

FFREE

GRATIS S

GRATUIT G

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euroweeklynews.com II LOCAL NEWS

1 - 7 February 2024

A new challenge S for Sustainability LEE HARKER, known for his past fundraising initiatives, has taken on a new and more ambitious challenge to support the AKIRA Dog Sanctuary in Benissa. Having successfully raised €10,000 by completing a 240km walk from Moraira to Valencia and back, Lee has now set his sights on a 500km trek from Barcelona to Moraira. The journey kicked off on January 29 and is scheduled to wrap up on February 10, spanning a total of 12 days. In preparation for this adventure, Lee has been diligently gearing up, and AKIRA is keeping the community updated with daily progress reports shared on their social media and YouTube channels. Lee’s fundraising target for this endeavour is €20,000, with all donations going directly toward supporting AKIRA and the well-being of the dogs under their care. Expressing gratitude for

Image: AKIRA

From Front page

LEE HARKER: Has set a fundraising target of €20,000.

every contribution, Lee underscores that no donation is too small. Even before embarking on the journey, Lee had already reached halfway to his target. Upon hitting the €10,000 milestone, he fulfilled his promise to get a tattoo as a symbol of appreciation for the overwhelming support.

Now proudly displaying a tattoo that incorporates the AKIRA logo and his personal motto, ‘Together we can’t be stopped’. For those interested in more details or wishing to make a donation, visit the website: www.akira-ani mals.com or reach out via phone on (+34) 657 689 567.

THE beaches of Benidorm have renewed the ‘S’ for Sustainability distinction created by the Spanish Tourism Quality Institute (ICTE) last year, in which the city was a pioneer. This year, the new stamp also extends to the tourist offices in Benidorm. The certification was collected by the mayor during Q Night, an event organised by the ICTE held at the Palacio de Cibeles in Madrid, coinciding with the International Tourism Fair, Fitur. At the same event, Hoteles Poseidón, a hotel chain in Benidorm, was recognised for its contribution to quality tourism and the promotion of sustainability in the industry. Pere Joan Devesa, the former president of HOSBEC and a prominent figure in the Hoteles Poseidón chain, received the Q Award from the Minister of Tourism, Jordi Hereu. The former president

expressed gratitude on behalf of the Poseidón Hotels family, emphasising their commitment to quality and sustainability since 1996. The recognition of qua-

lity and sustainability is closely linked to the destination of Benidorm, with the beaches and tourist offices holding the Q for quality for more than a decade.

Artistic licence

El Campello has announced two artistic competitions to select the posters for the Virgin of Carmen festivities in July and the Moors and Christians festivities in October. The deadline for submitting proposals is February 24. Interested individuals can participate in both competitions. Two presentation methods are allowed: in-person or electronically. Proposals should be original and unpublished, and their main motif or design should not have been entirely or partially copied from previously published designs For the Virgin of Carmen festivities, the special theme this year is the centenary of the celebrations, and the legend ‘Centenari de les festes de la Mare de Déu del Carme’ should be highlighted on the poster. The jury, appointed by the mayor, Juanjo Berenguer, will assess the creativity, quality, and technique of the designs, their originality, and their suitability to become the official poster for the festivities. The prize for the winning poster is €1,000. For the Moors and Christians festivities, a prize of €1,000 will be awarded for the winning advertising poster.

LOCAL NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

NIBS EXTRA Doggy heroes

ON January 29, TV channel À Punt’s ‘Animalades’ team visited La Nucia to film the Municipal Rescue Dog Training Camp. Thirteen USAR volunteers and their dogs participated. The report, featuring these ‘rescue dogs’, will air soon on À Punt’s weekly programme.

Beach games

ALICANTE and El Campello are collaborating to host the fourth edition of the Beach Games, spanning two weekends, May 17 and 24. Anticipating 40,000 attendees and an economic impact of £5.6 million, the event will take place on Muchavista Beach, featuring five disciplines: volleyball, handball, tennis, rugby, and soccer.

Cardioprotected

BENIDORM boasts 12 cardio-protected public buildings, equipped with mobile semi-automatic defibrillators for emergencies like cardiorespiratory failure. Additional defibrillators are present in police stations, new Local Police vehicles, and select hotels in the city, enhancing overall public safety.

Busy trains

OUIGO, having started operations in Spain in May 2021, has transported nine million travellers on existing routes, including Madrid-Zaragoza-Tarragona-Barcelona, Madrid-Valencia, and Madrid-Albacete-Alicante. The operator, with rates starting at €9, offers 509 seats spread over a two-storey train.

Quality tourism

THE Tourist Information Office of La Cala in Finestrat has received the Q Prize awarded by the Spanish Tourism Quality Institute (ICTE) in recognition of the town council’s efforts to promote quality and certified tourism sustainability.

Anna Ellis CALPE has formally requested a meeting with representatives from the Ministry of Transport and Mobility to advocate for the construction of a legal access route to Maryvilla. Currently, the absence of a legal entry point from the N-332 poses challenges, forcing drivers to cover additional kilometres for a U-turn, which is not without its risks. Similarly, residents of Maryvilla are unable to access the National Highway towards Altea directly, compelling them to navigate to the northern

1 - 7 February 2024

Maryvilla access Image: Ayuntamiento de Calpe

Improving access.

roundabout in Calpe to reach their destination. This situation, coupled

with occasional violations, poses risks to road safety. In the upcoming meeting,

Calpe Council intends to propose a potential solution to the Ministry, suggesting the construction of central lanes at KP 165+800 on the N-332 in the municipality. This adjustment would facilitate the required accesses, necessitating the widening of the road in that speciﬁc section. The residents of Maryvilla, the largest urbanisation in Calpe and one of the most populated, have been fervently advocating for improved access.

Clean sweep Altea winner

A NEW mural has been added to the San Anton neighbourhood in Alicante. Spanning about 15 square metres, it graces a facade on the corner of Calle Trafalgar and Calle Olvido, courtesy of the space provided by Iberdrola, the electricity company. The artwork portrays an elderly woman wielding a straw broom in various shades of grey. She gazes at a green plant growing at her feet, serving as a tribute to those who dedicated their lives to bettering the central Alicante neighbourhood. Over 100 individuals, including students, teachers, and local residents, contributed to the mural’s creation. The Alicante School of Art and Design presented eight projects, with three selected as top contenders based on the project’s objectives. The ﬁnal choice for the mural was determined through a neighbourhood vote, with 68 people participating. This mural marks the eighth addition to the San Anton neighbourhood, following the seven created in the EDUSI Art project.

IN the ILCA 4 dinghy sailing nationals held in Valencia, the sailor Clara García from the Altea Yacht Club secured second place for women. The competition took place at the Real Club Náutico de Valencia, where sailors from across Spain participated in intense races over three days. The Altea Yacht Club was well represented by two sailors, Clara García and Jorge Santos, who were selected for the Sailing Federation of the Valencian Community’s team. The event featured 143 sailors, making it a highly competitive national championship. Jorge Santos performed admirably, achieving a fourth and a fifth place in his best partials, ultimately finishing ninth in the overall standings. Clara García, on the other hand, secured two sixth-place finishes, earning her the title of ILCA 4 women’s runner-up. The trophy presentation took place at the RCNV Regatta Base, where Clara García received her well-deserved recognition for her achievements in the competition.

Intelligent tourist THE Madrid International Tourism Fair, Fitur, has once again underscored the global interest in Benidorm’s tourism model and management as the first certified Intelligent Tourist Destination (SID). This recognition is particularly noteworthy among established and emerging destinations in Latin America. Mayor Toni Pérez, seized the opportunity to engage with tourism officials from Paraguay, Montevideo (Uruguay), and Cancún (Mexico) during the event. Meetings were held with Angie Duarte, the Minister of Tourism of Paraguay, along with Alejandro Mullor, the Global

Tourism Lead of Microsoft. The mayor emphasised that these interactions are a direct result of the training provided by Visit Benidorm in various tourism forums held in Latin American cities. The city has been invited to participate in these forums, especially in 2023, to present Benidorm’s tourism model and share experiences in the implementation and management of the Intelligent Tourist Destination (DTI). Notable appearances include events in Montevideo, Cartagena de Indias (Colombia), Guatemala, and Medellín (Colombia).

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128 STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Don’t throw ON January 26, Gandia launched its new initiative, ‘The Sea Begins Here - Don’t Throw’, on World Environmental Education Day. Public road maintenance operators painted the campaign’s motto along with the drawing of a sea turtle on the scuppers just installed by the council. The initiative aims to raise awareness and sensitise residents and visitors about the consequences of dumping waste that reaches the water, negatively impacting flora and fauna. According to the Spanish Institute of Oceanography, 66 per cent of seas show severe alteration due to human impact. The campaign serves as a reminder to avoid littering and to protect the environment, especially the marine ecosystem.

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euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE/NEWS

1 - 7 February 2024

Mind your Spanglish

VIEWPOINT BILL ANDERSON SOMETHING a bit lighter this week, but nevertheless important. I have worked with thousands of International residents over the years, and speaking Spanish is a topic that comes up time and again. I have had some humorous moments in my learning Spanish journey. In my early days here, a Spanish teacher arrived at the house to do a class for my now late wife, and after courteous greeting she announced that she was a bit ‘constipada’. I wondered why she was telling me about her toilet habits, not something one expects when asking ‘¿Como estas?’ I reverted to my analogue dictionary and discovered that it meant ‘congested’, ie with a head cold. I was relieved. Sitting one day at a friend’s restaurant

I was amused when a group of young Norwegian tourists began to wish a friend a Happy Birthday, in Spanish. But they hadn’t grasped the effect of the little eyebrow over the ‘ñ’ and were wishing their friend a happy anus. There was raucous laughter when we filled them in. A recurring theme from many of my British acquaintances is how difficult it is to learn a language when you are getting on in years. I get it. And let’s be honest, when you live in many coastal areas, people can get by day to day without a decent level of Spanish. When my now wife immigrated with her family to Australia in the 1970s, it was a different story. Immigrants were scolded for speaking their native tongue in public places. I am not

saying I would like to see that happening in Spain in 2024, but I do get frustrated when I hear people complaining that they have gone to the Guardia Civil ‘and they didn’t speak English’, or to the hospital and an appointment was all but wasted because they couldn’t communicate. If no translator is available, why on earth don’t they take someone with them to help? In many ways, Spain has done its best to accommodate foreign immigrants, but it’s not Spain’s responsibility to make sure we are understood. In fairness, I know a lot of older people who faithfully attend their Spanish classes and still say they struggle to have a conversation with a Spaniard. Learning Spanish doesn’t ha-

ppen by attending a class once a week. It happens by immersing yourself in the Spanish life and culture, by using every opportunity you have to use Spanish, by getting into situations where you either have to remain silent or use the language to be part of the conversation. Of course, this is not as comfortable as being surrounded by our fellow native English speakers, but if we don’t escape our comfort zone, it will never happen. Spaniards don’t care if we get it wrong, but they do get annoyed when we don’t try. I have had many conversations with Spaniards who confirm this. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, or too shy to show what you have learned. Get out there and just do it.

Bill Anderson’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors. bill-anderson@euroweeklynews.com

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George Cunningham THE mayor of Javea, Rosa Cardona, received the Q for Quality badge for the three tourist offices in the municipality. The recognition highlights the excellence and professionalism in serving tourists and visitors at the Tourist Info offices in Pue-

Javea quality

blo, Duanes de la Mar, and Arenal. Rosa Cardona expressed her gratitude to the entire department for their efforts in meeting the de-

manding criteria of the Q. She emphasised that the recognition is proof that their introduction to tourists and visitors is the best.

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PROVERB OF THE WEEK “The dog may be wonderful prose, but only the cat is poetry.”

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This French proverb suggests that while dogs and cats have their own admirable qualities, cats possess a certain elusive charm and elegance that is akin to poetry.

José Marcos Pons, the councillor for Tourism, highlighted the government team’s commitment to tourism excellence. He announced that the town council is working to achieve more recognition of this type for different tourist resources in Javea. The Q for quality is a certificate created by the Institute for Spanish Tourism Quality.

LOCAL NEWS II euroweeklynews.com Nora Shephard JAVEA has conﬁrmed that the Granadella Trail will take place on February 3 and 4 in the Parque Granadella de Forest. The event will have nearly 700 registered participants, with 450 competing in the 26-kilometre race, 100 in the 14k race, and another 100 in the Promotion category. Additionally, there will be participants in the mini trail, for which registration is still open. The tests will commence on Saturday February 3 with the 14k and the Promotion categories. In the afternoon, there will be events for children.

1 - 7 February 2024

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Granadella trail

Image: Ayuntamiento de Javea

REGISTRATION: Is still open for the event.

On February 4, the main race, covering 26 kilometres, will start at 9.00am. Madelene Powel, the

president of the Llebeig Esportiu Club, conﬁrmed that the Granadella Trail has evolved into a weekend

event, oﬀering a combination of athletics, nature, and environmental awareness. The 26k race is also the Regional Championship, attracting top athletes from the community. Powel encouraged participants to approach the event with respect for the environment. In 2023, the trail winners in the queen event were: Antonio Martínez Pérez with a time of 1:52:22 and Julia Font Gómez of the Brooks Trail Runners with a time of 2:08:53.

Nautical cups

Joining forces

OLIVA has oﬃcially announced the hosting of the 2024 Spanish Wing Foil Cup and the Final of the 2024 Spain Wing Foil National Circuit, scheduled to take place from June 14 to 16. Establishing itself as a key player in this nautical competition, Oliva has consistently been chosen to host the national ﬁnal for multiple consecutive seasons. The new national circuit will feature three events, with two national competitions set in Chiclana de la Frontera (Cadis) and Oliva, and a third event on the island of La Palma. The fourth National Wingfoil Circuit is anticipated to attract top-tier athletes in this discipline, boasting support from the entire national industry, the municipalities of Oliva and Chiclana, and the Cabildo of Palma. Moreover, the circuit enjoys endorsements from the Sailing Federations of Valencia and Andalusia, as well as the Royal Spanish Sailing Federation and the GWA. Spain has been granted the honour of hosting the only Junior Wingfoil World Cup in 2024, a testament to the country’s recognition in the sport.

MAYORS Luis Barcala of Alicante and José Luis Martínez-Almeida of Madrid have jointly announced a communication campaign at Fitur to strengthen the bond between their cities under the tourism collaboration agreement. The mayors highlighted the vibrant relationship between Alicante and Madrid, emphasising the city’s signiﬁcance as a major source of tourists. Madrid residents often choose Alicante as their second residence, facilitated by the eﬃcient AVE railway connection taking less than two and a half hours. The recent inclusion of reduced-fare railway operators, Ouigo and Iryo, alongside Renfe and its low-cost line Avlo, led to a record-breaking year with nearly one million passengers on the Madrid-Alicante line. Given the strategic importance of Alicante for Madrid and the success of the AVE connection, joint actions between the two cities aim to enhance their tourism model.

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1 - 7 February 2024

THE women’s 7s rugby team from El Campello is embarking on a journey to Australia to participate in the third series of the Women’s Rugby World Cup. The upcoming competition in Perth holds significant importance, as the season determines the team that will be relegated from the top global competition in the Olympic category. The Spanish team, known as ‘Las Leonas’, finds themselves in a precarious position after the series in Dubai and Cape Town. As of

World Cup now, they are in danger of relegation, but there are more challenges to overcome before the seventh and final series in Madrid, which will play a decisive role. The last four classified teams will compete against each other to avoid losing their place in the competition. Notably, Juanma Stella, a compatriot and a member of the delegation, is highlighted. George Cunningham BETWEEN January 30 and February 2, the third meeting of the European project CoGreenEu, titled ‘European Cooperation Against Climate Change’, will take place in Agros, Cyprus. Representatives from the municipality of Al-

THE stalls on the Alicante Esplanade have been given an end date. October 31 will be the last day for business for the stalls located on the promenade near Canalejas Park. Thirty-one stalls dedicated to the sale of artisan products will need to find a new location, although the

End date

city council has not specified where that will be. Potential locations, such as the Doctor Gadea area or another spot around the Esplanade, have been considered. The suspension of the market in this area is based

Go green tea, including biology professors Jordi Escrihuela and Susana Monllor will participate in the congress. Other participants include representatives

from Denia and Alcoy in Spain, and members of participating partners from Italy, Belgium, Greece, Cyprus, Holland, Latvia, and Lithuania. The CoGreenEu project aims to accelerate the achievement of the sustainable development goals outlined in the United Nations 2030 Agenda at the municipal level. Altea, as part of the project, has already established these objecti-

on the city’s goal to recover the emblematic space, aiming for a broader promenade open to general use and visually connected to the maritime façade. The decision reflects the importance of reclaiming the image of the most emblematic promenade in the city. ves in its strategic planning. The counciñlor for European Projects, Germán Manjón, highlighted the increasing participation of Altea’s schools in various programmes offered by the European Union, especially through the Erasmus+ programme for both teachers and students. For more information about the programmes and projects managed by the city council’s European Projects Office (EuroAltea), you can contact europa@altea. es or follow @euroaltea.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Altea

CLIMATE CHANGE: Representatives will take part in event.

LOCAL NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

Robot gymnastics ON January 26, the gymnastics classes for seniors in La Nucia at ‘La Casilla’ featured a special teacher, the social robot Pepper. In this pilot test, it was confirmed that Pepper could effectively teach classes and even respond to questions from the older participants. The seniors were surprised by their technological teacher, who took on a human-like form. While Pepper conducted the class, the regular teacher of gerontological gymnastics classes was able to correct the movements of the students, a feature not available when directing the classes. Pepper is a humanoid robot standing at approximately one metre and 20 centimetres in height. It boasts an attractive and dynamic design, intuitive programming languages, and the ability to interact with people through its level of intelligence. Equipped with sensors, it can detect both verbal and non-verbal language, recognising the mood of the interlocutor by analysing tone of voice and head position. Designed by the company SoftBank Robotics (formerly Aldebaran Robotics), Pepper’s human-shaped appearance enhances its approachability, capturing the attention of those interacting with it.

AT FITUR 2024, El Xato de La Nucia Restaurant made its debut as part of the gastronomic promotional program of Turisme Comunitat Valenciana. The restaurant, led by chef Cristina Figueira, held a showcooking of rice at the exhibition stand of the Valencian Community. The dish featured rice with

1 - 7 February 2024

Gastronomic debut black truffle from Castellon and red shrimp from Denia, showcasing quality local products. El Xato, a Michelin-starred restaurant, became a ‘gastronomic ambassador’ for La Nucia at the

Tourism quality SICTED: Promotion of highquality services. Image: Ayuntamiento de La Nucia / Facebook

EL CAMPELLO is actively engaged in the Comprehensive System for Tourism Quality in Destinations (SICTED), showcasing a strong commitment to collaboration between the public and private sectors for the promotion of high-quality services. SICTED aims to achieve a consistent level of quality in all tourist services, influencing visitor satisfaction, enhancing the destination’s image, and fostering loyalty while attracting potential tourists throughout the year. Currently, El Campello boasts 27 recognised companies and services under the SICTED framework, with eight more establishments anticipated to achieve certification shortly. El Campello has been among the early adopters of the Network of Destinations in the Valencia Community, reaching level 3. Furthermore, the destination has recently joined the national network of the State Mercantile Society for the Management of Innovation and Tourism Technologies (SEGITTUR). The Smart Tourist Destination model represents a new approach to tourism management and planning, leveraging data collection and utilisation. This model integrates various concepts, including sustainability, accessibility, innovation, transparency, and mobility. Becoming a Smart Tourist Destination facilitates efficient decision-making based on objective information to meet visitor expectations.

2024 International Tourism Fair (FITUR 2024). The cooking demonstration highlighted the culinary expertise of Cristina Figueira, and portions of the rice were distributed to at-

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tendees. Cristina Figueira was joined by her daughter Esperanza Cano, representing the new generation in the kitchen of this century-old restaurant in La Nucía. The rice was paired with a local wine, ‘Els Fustals 2022’ from Celler Mar de Vins in La Nucia, made from the Malvasía variety.

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euroweeklynews.com II LOCAL NEWS

1 - 7 February 2024

Bob Marquess HOTEL data for 2023 shows the recovery and consolidation of tourism on the Costa Blanca. The number of travellers who stayed in hotels in the province reached 4.6 million. Alicante received over 2.2 million travellers, marking an improvement of 4.1 per cent.

Tourism data

The international market now accounts for 52 per cent of the total, representing a 10.1 per cent increase. In the rest of the Valencian Community, the province of Valencia accounted for 38.6 per cent of the total number

of guests staying in hotels (more than 3.6 million), with 57 per cent of travellers of national origin, showing an 8.2 per cent increase. The average workforce in the hotel sector is 16,746 workers on average in the Valencian Community. Despite the positive outlook, the search for professionals in the sector remains challenging, and efforts are needed to encourage specialised training. Economically, Alicante and Valencia City lead with average rates of €114 and €101.4, representing a 32 per cent and 31 per cent increase.

La Cala award

THE La Cala Tourist Information Office has received the prestigious Q Award for Tourism Quality from the ICTE (Spanish Tourism Quality Institute). The award acknowledges the commendable efforts of the Department of Tourism, in promoting certified Tourism Quality and Sustainability. It’s noteworthy that, since April of the previous year, the La Cala Tourist Info relocated right in front of the beach promenade, bringing it closer to the sea. The updated facilities in-

THE Teulada City Council has launched its tourism campaign for the year with the motto ‘Incredible but True.’ The campaign aims to position Teulada Moraira as a year-round tourist destination by offering diverse and unique experiences throughout the year. The goal is to attract visitors during all seasons, challenging the traditional concept of seasonal tourism. The campaign promotes a wide range of activities, including beach days, picturesque

Image: Ayuntamiento de Finestrat

TOURISM OFFICE: Received prestigious Q award.

clude an Information area, a playroom adorned with a mural representing Cala in a child-friendly manner, a touch screen, and an audiovisual room. Donna Plummer, the councillor for Tourism, ex-

Incredible but true landscapes, concerts, sports competitions, dining experiences, parties, and shows. By providing a comprehensive and varied set of attractions, Teulada Moraira seeks to cater to different tastes and preferences. The initiative aims not only to meet but exceed the expectations of tourists, showcasing the destination’s distinctiveness and adaptability.

pressed gratitude for the award, stating, “It recognises the effort we have been making to meet all the parameters of quality and excellence in our service and our facilities.” The ‘Q’ brand for Tourist Quality not only adds prestige and differentiation but also promotes Finestrat as a destination. The councillor added: “We are very proud of this recognition of our Tourist Info in La Cala, an office in which we will soon activate new technologies with immersive experiences to take another step in promoting everything we have in Finestrat.”

ADVERTISING FEATURE II euroweeklynews.com

1 - 7 February 2024

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Are you fulfilling your residency obligations? Any UK resident who would like to spend more than 90 days in one or more of the Schengen zone states are confronted by a time-consuming, paper-heavy visa process.

Court ruling has impacted the situation. It found in favour of an Iranian woman who lost her temporary residence and work permit after being for more than six months.

Whether right or wrong, this perhaps explains why many UK nationals with second homes took the opportunity to apply for a residency permit prior to the UK leaving the EU, even if they had no intention of spending 183 days in Spain – a requirement for its successful renewal, and, incidentally, the point at which you become a tax resident.

After finding a contradiction with Article 19 of Spain’s constitution espousing ‘freedom of movement’ when talking about temporary residence permits, the Court nullified Regulation 162.2 of Spain’s immigration law which restricts absences to no more than 182 days a year. It however confirmed the government can re-introduce it as an organic law in the future.

Swapping a pre-existing residency card for one stating it was issued under the UK-EU Withdrawal Agreement, thus preserving pre-Brexit rights, was more of an exchange than a review of the individual’s actual qualification for the residency permit in the first place. But many of these cards fall due for renewal or upgrade to permanent residency cards from mid-

By Brett Hanson, Senior Partner, Blevins Franks

2025, and many UK nationals might feel concerned about what awaits them. The EU is going through a massive digital immigration upgrade, with the “Entry and Exit Scheme” (EES) expected to come online later this year. This will quickly establish how many days a Briton spends in Spain, though individuals holding residency permits are exempt. Spain court ruling and ramifications A recent Spanish Supreme

This now means each situation will be reviewed on its own merits, with no real security over what scenario will qualify. Residence decisions may be based more on assessing if Spain is the main home, rather than the number of days. The threat of being denied a permit renewal therefore remains.

The Spanish tax authorities are likely to be interested in reviewing the days in and out of Spain and trying to establish if your “centre of economic interests” or “centre of vital interests” (family base) is in Spain – all of which could make you liable to Spanish taxation on worldwide income and wealth. On renewal at five years, you are likely to be denied permanent residence as there is an extra stipulation of no more than 10 months absence over the five years of temporary residence. The risks of fulfilling residence criteria Applying for or renewing a residency permit with no intention of becoming legally resident is potentially fraudulent. It may well result in a large fine, removal of the permit, country ban for several years and rejection of any future visa and residency applications.

The ongoing discussions between UK and Spanish government departments may eventually lead to the annual 180-day allowance becoming flexible across the year, rather than the current maximum of 90 days at a time. This may be sufficient for some people, though this change may need to be agreed at EU level. Any Briton falling foul of a state’s immigration authorities may find they have lost the thing they value the most – the ability to spend time at their villa for several years to come. If any of this concerns you, take steps to rectify your situation before it is too late. Summarised tax information is based upon our understanding of current laws and practices which may change. Individuals should seek personalised advice. Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at www. blevinsfranks.com.

10 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II LOCAL NEWS

Singing for charity DENIA Rock Choir gave two performances of their Christmas Charity concert at the Hostal Loreto, Denia. The programme included a mix of contemporary rock songs dating from the 1960s to today. Also included were seasonal pop songs. The choir, under the direction of Aileen Lightfoot, were delighted by the response of the audience. They were very appreciative of the singing and gave generously to the choir’s chosen charity. Recently, members of the choir’s committee met with Adany from Extiende tu Mano (Extend your Hand), to hand over €800 to help the work of this charity in providing vital support to local families in need during these difficult times. Extend your Hand is a not for profit association of a social nature that aims to help vulnerable groups in a comprehensive manner. They work to channel human and physical resources, to fight poverty, inequalities and hunger in our environment. They say that when one person im-

Image: Comunitat Valenciana Turismo

EXTEND YOUR HAND: Helping others.

proves everyone wins. People with socioeconomic needs can access five programmes: one aimed at people in social exclusion or at high risk of social exclusion, another programme aimed at families without resources, one helping people with mental/emotional needs, and another aimed at women in vulnerable situations, with another aimed at refugees. The association currently has a network of more than 200 volunteers, among whom there are professionals who provide their services for free (psychologists, lawyers and social workers).

LOCAL NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

Gastronomy galore Anna Ellis BENIDORM’S mayor, Toni Pérez, has unveiled a delectable line-up of events for 2024, all falling under the enticing umbrella of ‘Gastronomic Benidorm.’ The gastronomic calendar promises a feast for diverse tastes, catering to both aficionados of traditional flavours and those seeking exciting culinary innovations. The festivities are set to unfold between March and November, commencing with the ‘12th Jornadas de la Cuchara’ from March 1 to 10. Following this, the ‘fourth Tuna Days’ will tantalise taste buds from February 12 to 21, paving the way for the ‘14th Tapas Contest’ taking place between June 14 and 23. LAS FALLAS and Holy Week in Gandia have both been recognised as Festivals of National Tourist Interest. This designation highlights the promotional nature of the festivals and positions the city as a reference in the media, attracting enthusiasts from across the country and even internationally. Gandia now stands as one of the few cities in Spain with recognition for two of

September will witness the latest addition to the ‘Benidorm Gastronomic’ brand, the ‘third Cocktail Competition,’ gracing the city from the 13th to the 22nd. Wrapping up the culinary extravaganza, the ‘13th Days of the Rice of the Earth’ will unfold from October 25 to November 3. Mayor Toni Pérez celebrated the gastronomic wealth of the city and commended local restaurateurs for presenting a diverse and top-notch culinary spectrum. Emphasising the growing importance of gastronomy in travellers’ decision-making, Pérez expressed his hope for widespread and outstanding participation from local establishments in these ‘Benidorm Gastronomic’ events.

National interest its celebrations. In addition to Las Fallas and Holy Week, other festivities in Gandia, such as the Porrats, the night of San Juan, the Grau seafaring festivals, processions, and the Fira i Festes, have been acknowledged as events worthy of similar recognition. The city’s festive calen-

dar, with approximately 300 days of sunshine, contributes to its appeal, drawing thousands of people each year. The Godmother of Holy Week praised Gandia as having one of the best celebrations in its category, featuring 10 days with 30 impressive images.

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Baths of the Queen

Image: Ayuntamiento de Calpe

BAÑOS DE LA REINA: One of the most significant archaeological sites.

CALPE is set to initiate the museumisation of the Baños de la Reina (Baths of the Queen) archaeological site The plan for the site aims to protect and enhance the archaeological remains, making it accessible to the public. The initial work will involve cleaning the site and its surroundings, including the removal of solid waste and vegetation clearance. Excavation work will be carried

out on archaeological structures, and efforts will focus on consolidating damaged walls and structures. The project also includes the installation of gravel of different shades to aid in the visual identification of the intervened spaces for interpretation. A protective cover will be added to safeguard access to the hydraulic assembly, and basic itineraries with walkways will be established for

visitors. The project also involves the installation of new fencing, repair and replacement of damaged fencing, and the creation of an archaeology and restoration work area with prefabricated modules. The Baños de la Reina site, dating from the second century AD to the seventh century AD, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Roman Hispania and was declared a Cultural Interest Asset in March 2022.

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Positive note Image: Visit Benidorm / Facebook

BENIDORM: Witnessed an increase in tourist numbers.

Nora Shephard BENIDORM concluded 2023 on a positive note, witnessing an increase in tourist numbers across all international markets, as revealed in the annual report by Visit Benidorm. The city welcomed a total of 2,766,366 travellers last year, marking a 3.8 per cent growth compared to 2019, which was characterised as a pre-pandemic year with record-breaking tourist arrivals. Mayor Toni Perez provided insights into the international market dynamics, stating that Benidorm experienced a 5.2 per cent increase in UK tourists in 2023 compared to 2019. Remarkably, this growth occurred despite a 7 per cent reduc-

tion in air connections between the United Kingdom and Alicante-Elche Airport. The latter, currently the top choice for British customers in Spain, hosted 832,115 British citizens in Benidorm, representing an increase of 41,239 visitors compared to 2019. Other international markets also contributed to the positive trend, with increases ranging from 3.2 per cent in Belgium to an impressive 88.4 per cent in Italy. Portugal, as the third-largest source market, experienced a substantial growth of 67.7 per cent. Although these markets may not match the absolute numbers of British visitors, they collectively accounted for a significant 242,348 visitors.

360º images

VILLAJOYOSA has introduced a new technological tool for enjoying 360º images, starting with the immersive experience of the Desembarco (Disembarkation) event during the Moors and Christians festivities. This initiative, presented by the councillor for Festivals, Jaime Santamaría, and the councillor for Tourism, Rosa Llorca, is designed to showcase the technological perspective of festivals and make them visible to professionals in the sector. The pilot project focuses on the Desembarco event, where Saracen boats invade the central beach amid a spectacular light show, sound, and gunpowder. The technology allows users worldwide to enjoy the festival virtually through 360º images, immersing themselves in the excitement of the event. Rosa Llorca confirmed the use of new immersive reality technology to promote festivals, which are significant tourist attractions for destinations. The 360º images provide a virtual reality experience, enabling users to feel like participants in the Moors and Christians festivities. Users can choose between experiencing the event from the perspective of a Moorish or Christian festival-goer, selecting various scenarios and moments of the Disembarkation.

14 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024 WHEN two or more individuals are co-owners of an immovable property, all of them must contribute to the payment of the maintenance costs. The conservation of the common thing. Mortgage, etc. However, in practice, many co-owners fail to comply with this obligation. In this week’s article we

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Claim against a co-debtor Non-Resident in Spain. Which country has jurisdiction to hear the proceedings? Action for reimbursement. Repetition action. Mortgage loan. analyse how and where to file a claim against a codebtor. What happens when a coowner stops paying his/her share of the mortgage? Two people purchase a house in Spain with a mortgage. However, one

of them fails to pay his part of the mortgage on the property they share. Furthermore, the co-debtor leaves Spain and moves to another country. Often, to avoid a possible seizure of the property, the other co-owner covers all the expenses. The question is: Can this co-owner claim against the co-debtor? The answer is clear: YES. We discuss this below. The reimbursement action as a basis for a claim against a co-debtor The legal basis of the claim is regulated in Article 1.145 of the Spanish Civil Code, which regulates the action of reimbursement or repetition. It states: “The payment made by one of the joint debtors extinguishes the obligation. The one who made the payment can only

claim from his co-debtors the part that corresponds to each one, with the interest on the advance (...).” In other words, the owner who has fulfilled and paid the mortgage loan in full, can subsequently claim against the other co-owner/debtor. However, the co-owner who has paid does not subrogate in the position of the bank. A new credit with the debtor arises by virtue of the payment that extinguished the initial debt to the bank. What happens when the co-debtor lives outside Spain. Is it true that I have to sue him in his country? As said a few lines back, the co-owner that refuses to pay sometimes leaves the country. This is intended to make it more difficult to claim against him/her. Although this strategy could delay the deadlines (due to the difficulties of serving the claim abroad; depending on the country), it his should

not be an obstacle to the success of the claim. When a co-debtor is served abroad, the main defensive argument is claiming that the Spanish courts do not have jurisdiction. And that since the debtor is domiciled abroad, it could be understood that the claim should be brought in that country and not in Spain. As we will see below, in reality this may not be the case. Loan contract. Provision of services. International jurisdiction. In accordance with the interpretation that judgment CJEU 15.06.2017 - C 249/16 made of the European Regulation 1215/2012 (in particular in relation to the action for reimbursement or repetition); it could be concluded that the applicable jurisdiction is set by the place of fulfilment of the main contract. That is to say, of the loan contract. Thus:

- We would be dealing with a contractual obligation, related to a contract for the provision of services. - In these cases, in accordance with Art. 7, 1 - b (2) of the aforementioned regulation, one would have to turn to the place where the service was provided. In the case of mortgage loans, that would be the bank’s domicile. Therefore, it would be possible to claim in Spain. Conclusions If you are a co-owner who is considering initiating a claim against a co-debtor of a property in Spain, do not hesitate to contact us. At White-Baos Abogados we will offer you expert legal advice on the best way to claim. The information provided in this article is not intended to be legal advice, but merely conveys information relating to legal issues.

16 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024 Anna Ellis THE ‘Local Actiu’ campaign in Denia aims to revitalise and commercially energise the Paris neighbourhood - Pedrera. The campaign focuses on increasing the visibility of empty premises, consolidating and enhancing business activity, and beautifying the neighbourhood. The strategy includes improving the commercial image of

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Energising Denia premises and facades, particularly those currently vacant. The campaign involves beautifying the windows of empty stores with vinyl featuring unpublished images of Denia, captured by photographer César Roa, to

enhance the visual appeal and attract potential tenants. QR codes on the vinyls direct viewers to a website for the neighbourhood business directory and provide contact information for the real estate agency or ow-

ner of the premises. In the initial phase, four neighbourhood stores and seven shop windows on Calle Sagunto (5 and 8), Calle Patricio Ferrandiz (7), and Plaza Archiduque Carlos (9) have been beautified.

The long-term goal is to impact a total of 20-25 commercial storefronts in the neighbourhood. The campaign reflects a broader effort to promote commercial reactivation in different neighbourhoods of Denia. Property owners of vacant premises in the area are encouraged to contact the Department of Commerce to participate in the project.

Protest over cuts

TUESDAY January 23, the Association Gatos Felices Altea (Happy Cats Altea) presented its objections together with a petition signed by 766 people, to the decrease of the annual budget of 2024 designated for the sterilisations of stray cats by 60 per cent. The budget was lowered from €10,000 to €4,000, whereas the new law protecting domestic animals, states that the local government is responsible for all stray cats and so would need far more money to take on that responsibility.

Support the local cats.

Within eight days after the association published a petition on Change.org, 766 people signed it supporting their request not to reduce the budget but

to increase it to €20,000. The reason being that the decrease will cause a large increase of cats in their colonies resulting in more complaints from neighbours, an increase of infectious diseases between the cats, more cats being run over and cats that are injured or sick will suffer enormously before dying. The Association hopes that the councillors will take notice and adjust the budget as requested. If you want to follow us, you can do so on our Facebook page Happy Cats Altea.

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City of Sports

IN 2024, ‘La Nucia, City of Sports’ is set to host a comprehensive calendar of 42 international and national sporting events. Some of the standout events include the Spanish Outdoor Athletics Championship, Shimano Super Cup Massi XCO UCI 1, Spanish Duathlon Championships Supersprint, 21st International Open of Spain Taekwondo-WTF, Boxam International Elite Tournament, Spanish Athletics Championship of Autonomous Federations, Mediterranean Fencing Championship, Radikaldarts International Championship, and Criterium and Gran Fondo de Ciclismo. Many of these events will feature competitions for Olympic qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics, providing athletes with an opportunity to secure their spots. T he sports events will be broadcast live on national and international television as well as streaming platforms, contributing to the global promotion of ‘La Nucia, City of Sports’ through quality sporting events. Mayor Bernabé Cano emphasised the significant promotion that these events will bring to La Nucía, the Costa Blanca, and the Valencian Community.

Showcooking splendour ON Friday, January 26, Teulada-Moraira’s eagerly awaited Showcooking Event was presented at the FITUR Tourism Exhibition in Madrid. The Showcooking focused on the duality between tradition and innovation, showcasing the sardine as the main ingredient. Miguel Noguera, a director of the group Teulada Moraira Fisherman, brought his experience to the authentic flavour of seafood, representing the traditional aspect. Chef Nazario Cano, from the Ritual de Terra Moraira hotel complex, demonstrated haute cuisine techniques to transform sardines into an exquisite dish: Foie in salted boot sardines with syrup and parsnip and muscat molasses. To showcase local gastronomy, two extras dressed in haute couture outfits represented two identifying products of Teulada Moraira: the Moscatel grape and the octopus, drawing attention and promoting kilometre-zero products.

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Showcasing Finestrat George Cunningham FINESTRAT proudly showcased its most significant transformation in recent decades at the Fitur Tourism Exhibition in Madrid from January 24 to 28. In the historic centre, the renovation of the iconic La Penya slope has already begun. Juanfran Pérez Llorca, the mayor, shared, “It is one of the most iconic images of the Valencian Community: the hanging houses on La Penya de Finestrat. “We are working to improve and beautify this massif. This performance will be complemented with a never-before-seen image of La Penya both day and night, thanks to the intelligent LED lighting.” These projects have been funded with €3 million by the European Union-Next Generation EU through the Tourism Sustainability Plan. “It is the year of sustainability. It is the year of accessibility. It is the year of innovation. And Finestrat is an example,” summarised the mayor. The renovation of the historic

Image: Ayuntamiento de Finestrat

FINESTRAT: Renovating its centre.

centre aims to enhance its surroundings and improve accessibility. A notable project includes the installation of an elevator from Plaça de la Unió European to the Castell, where the Hermitage is located. The mayor confirmed: “What we want is for all our visitors to be able to access and walk through one of the most beautiful environments in Finestrat.”

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Q for Quality VILLAJOYOSA has proudly renewed its Q for Tourist Quality certificate, which makes this year the 13 consecutive year for receiving the title. This recognition is a testament to the ongoing commitment and effort of the tourist informants working in the Villajoyosa tourism office. Rosa Llorca, the councilor for Tourism, acknowledged the dedication of the tourist informants, stating that “this recognition is theirs, and I greatly appreciate the daily efforts of the members of the Tourism Department.” Mayor Marcos Zaragoza emphasised the significance of quality and sustainability as fundamental pillars of the municipality’s tourism strategy. The Villajoyosa Council is actively working on the development of the Destination Tourism Intelligence (DTI) and the Destination Tourism Sustainability Plan (PSTD) to revitalise the sector.

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Oldest gorilla dies at 60 Airport boarding streamlined DELILAH the gorilla was the oldest gorilla in the UK and one of the oldest in the world. She celebrated her 60th birthday in late 2023 and lived at Belfast Zoo. Delilah reached this remarkable age due to the constant love and care of

the animal teams at Belfast Zoo. Unfortunately, after recently suffering from a chest infection, and being in ill health for some time, the decision was taken to put Delilah to sleep to prevent further decline in her

condition. Belfast Zoo curator Julie Mansell said: “Because of her advanced years we knew this day would come, but it is still a difficult time for everyone who was involved with Delilah during her life at Belfast.” Delilah was previously featured on the show Animal Magic with Johnny Morris, and had lived at the zoo for 32 years. During recent years, Delilah had been kept on a specialised diet and received baby porridge with her medication each morning. The statement released by Belfast Zoo said: “The team is deeply saddened by her loss. During her 32 years at Belfast Zoo, Delilah was a character and was loved by keepers and visitors.” People from all over the world have flooded social media with messages of love for the gorilla, with many adults reminiscing on visiting her during their childhood.

Passengers can register their facial data.

THE often laborious check-in and boarding procedures can be a tedious distraction for travellers at airports. However, technology looks set to transform the boarding experience, with a new futuristic option already a reality at several Spanish airports, thanks to Vueling, a trailblazer in air travel innovation. Recently, Vueling has introduced a ground-breaking facial recognition system at key Spanish airports, including Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat, Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas, and others in Palma de Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza. This system marks a significant departure from traditional boarding processes, with plans to expand to Tenerife North and Gran Canaria airports. To utilise this new system, Vueling passengers must first register their facial data. This can be done either online during check-in via the airline’s website or app or at designated

kiosks in the airports. Once registered, passengers won’t need to undergo this process for future flights if they opt to use facial recognition which is currently a voluntary choice. The main advantage of this biometric system is its efficiency. Registered passengers can move through security checks and boarding gates without needing physical documentation. This system, initially available at select points, promises to streamline the airport experience significantly. Vueling’s adoption of facial recognition technology signals a major shift in air travel procedures. The airline foresees biometrics becoming the norm in the coming years, not only expediting airport procedures but potentially inspiring other airlines to adopt similar technologies. With this change, Vueling is leading the way in modernising the aviation experience.

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Photo credit: Normandy Victory Museum Linda Hall RANDY BUELENS wants 99-year-old Chester P Sloan, a D-Day veteran nicknamed Buck, to return to Normandy on June 6. Buck, 20 at the time, was posted to Normandy a few weeks after the initial landings and sent to Company B, 38th Infantry Regiment, part of the Second Infantry Division known as the Indian Head Division. As a gunner he took part in the fierce battles to liberate Brest and after fighting in Brittany was wounded during the Battle of the Bulge waged in the densely-forested ArD-DAY VETERAN: Chester P Sloan, nicknamed Buck on dennes region between Belgium an earlier visit to Normandy. and Luxembourg. “I met Buck for the first time five so many years later. It is and always will be years ago, during the Battle of the Bulge a big part of his life,” Randy said. anniversary,” Randy (26) told Vlaamse Ra“Unfortunately, Buck cannot afford the dio and Television (VRT). trip but now is really the time to honour “He was the first veteran I met and that veterans like him. They are all in their late was really an overwhelming experience,” 90s or early 100s and in a few years, there he added. will be no more veterans.” “I sent Buck a letter afterwards to thank Randy hopes to raise €4,000 via crowhim and he invited me to Houston,” Randy dfunding, and at last count had reached said, explaining that he has now visited €3,785. Buck three times. “That money will mainly pay for his Buck celebrates his 100th birthday on plane tickets and stay in Normandy. This June 1 and Randy hopes he can visit Euro- time, his wife Shirley will join him, which pe to attend the 80th D-Day anniversary. means that a decent sum is needed,” he “It is still hugely important to him, even said.

SPAIN’S allure has once again reached pre-pandemic levels, drawing over 84 million visitors in 2023, a statistic that highlights its status as a much sought-after tourist destination. For many years, Spain has become an irresistible holiday spot for the British. But, it’s not just about sun, sea and sand, a recent study has revealed the UK’s top favourite cities in Spain Part of the attraction is of course the Spanish climate. The culture of living outdoors, with bustling bars and restaurants is reportedly one of the biggest draws. Additionally, Spain’s aﬀordability, combined with excellent travel connections, makes it a preferred destination for those seeking a cost-eﬀective holiday. According to Spanish

Credit: Marques/Shutterstock.com

Unsentimental journey Brits still love Spain

CULTURAL HERITAGE: Torre del Oro of Sevilla, Andalucia.

media, certain cities have a special place in the hearts of British tourists. • Barcelona, renowned for its sunny disposition and cultural vibrancy comes top of the list. • Valencia, known for its year-round seaside paella, is the second favourite • Madrid, the heart of authentic Spanish tapas and pinchos, ranks third. The city’s charm lies in its ability to oﬀer long, sunny walks and a vibrant street life, away from overwhelming crowds.

• San Sebastian is next, with its culinary excellence and scenic location make it a year-round destination for food enthusiasts. • Sevilla, described as, a city with a tangible cultural heritage stands out as a non-traditional choice for the British. Far from the stereotypes of sun, sea, or party-style drunken tourism, they cater to visitors seeking to immerse themselves in Spain’s varied gastronomic and cultural experiences.

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20 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024 HOW can someone become a man and a mother at the same time? This is the case of a young person from Rome who, with his transition to become a man almost complete, discovered he was in his fifth month of pregnancy. ‘Marco’, as he was called in the story from an Italian newspaper, did not recognise himself in his body. He felt like a man and not a woman. He thus started the long and difficult process of gender reassignment.

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Italian man is 5 months pregnant First the psychological process to ascertain gender incongruity and then hormone therapies. His physique began to change. His face became covered with a beard and male features slowly became predominant. Marco then began to eliminate what remained of his former body and underwent a mastectomy. The process had reached such

an advanced stage that the Italian court authorised a change of sex attribution and the change of name on all documents. One last step was missing: the hysterectomy, the removal of the uterus. When the operation was performed, however, it was immediately clear that Marco was five months pregnant.

Doctors found themselves in an extremely complex situation in one of Rome’s major health facilities. It emerged that following a relationship, ‘Marco’ had conceived a child. Now, high-level discussions are under way among the doctors who are following Marco’s case and who have never before been confronted with this situation.

Sustainable tourism HOW will climate change affect a top tourist destination like Spain? In 2023, Spain emerged as the world’s premier tourist destination, overtaking France for the first time. Last year, the country welcomed approximately 84 million visitors, with tourist spending surpassing pre-pandemic levels. However, a recent report on the tourism sector from David Cesar Heymann indicated that climate change is taking its effect on tourist spending. The CaixaBank report highlights that climate change is already impacting Spain’s tourism sector. “The main risk in the medium and long term for tourism in Spain is climate change,” Heymann warns. He explains that a rise of four degrees in summer temperatures could result in a decline in tourism by

Credit: Antonio Guillem/Shutterstock.com

FEELING THE HEAT: Promoting shaded spots is key.

up to 15 per cent. One of the factors behind Spain’s success as a tourist destination is it’s price competitiveness. In 2024 security is also expected to play a significant role. “Spain has a very high perception of security among international tourists and when there is tension or instability in the Middle East, historically the Spanish tourism sector has benefited,” says Heymann. British and North Ame-

rican tourists are particularly sensitive to these security situations claims the expert. So, how should the tourism sector respond to these changes? Investment in night-time leisure and dining options becomes crucial, especially during heatwaves. In coastal areas, promoting water activities and shaded spots is key, while urban destinations should focus on air-conditioned or well-ventilated activities.

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1 - 7 February 2024

A TOURIST’S lavish night out in which he treated people to rounds of drinks to the value of €8,000 has ended in him being arrested by police. A 66-year-old Icelandic man, who indulged in a wild spending spree, but then claimed he didn’t have the money to pay has been caught out in Tenerife. The incident happened on a busy night in the south of Tenerife, when the tourist reported being violently robbed. He claimed that the assai-

Credit: bbernard/Shutterstock.com

‘Generous’ tourist arrested

CHEERS: The man generously treated fellow patrons.

Tensions rise

THE protests by French farmers are having a major impact on the lives of Spanish citizens with access roads being closed and even Spanish transporters now being targeted. The Spanish government has publicly denounced the recent vandalism targeting Spanish lorries in France, amidst agricultural protests disrupting road traffic and hindering the transportation of goods. Reportedly, Spanish authorities are closely monitoring the escalating situation in France, and spoke out against the damage inflicted upon their lorries by French farmers. These incidents, involving products like fruit, vegetables, and wine, were described by government sources as ‘absolutely unacceptable’. The Spanish Executive is maintaining an ongoing dialogue with French officials, ensuring a steady flow of information for

addressing potential issues. January marks a peak in Spanish exports, with France being not only a key market but also a gateway to other European destinations. The volume of fresh fruits and vegetables exported in January 2023 reached 1,240,000 tons, valued at €1.6 billion. Disruptions caused by French farmers’ protests in Le Boulou, France, led to significant traffic challenges. On Friday, January 26, the AP-7 was closed near La Jonquera in Girona, as reported by the Mossos d’Esquadra The Spanish government, while condemning the violent actions, respects the right to peaceful protest and free expression. However, the government ‘fully respects the right to demonstrate and freely express one’s opinion,’ as long as it is done ‘peacefully, not with violent means or coercion.’

lants made fraudulent transactions amounting to €8,000 using his stolen credit card. This report was made to the National Police which sparked an investigation into the alleged crime. The police, delving into the case, traced the transactions to a nightclub venue in Tenerife’s vibrant southern region. However, upon further investigation, a different story was revealed. Eyewitness accounts and transaction records showed that the man had spent several hours at the venue. He indulged in numerous drinks and generously offered rounds to fellow patrons. Remarkably the spending spree exactly matched the amount he later reported as stolen. The police, armed with compelling evidence, confronted the tourist at his hotel. They arrested him for falsifying a crime report. It is important to note that pretending to be a victim or perpetrator of a crime, or reporting a non-existent crime, is a legal offence. In such cases, the law stipulates a fine ranging from six to 12 months. This peculiar case serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of deceit. It highlights the diligence of the National Police in uncovering the truth, ensuring justice prevails.

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A NEW era has begun for electric scooter enthusiasts. But what exactly does this mean for the future of urban mobility? As from January 22, electric scooters sold in Spain must possess a certification to legally operate on the streets. This move by the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic) aims to uphold minimum safety and quality standards. Notably, scooters sold before this date can still be used without certification until January 22, 2027. What does it take for a scooter to be certified? First and foremost, they must have a speed indicator and two independent brakes. These scooters, defined as Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs), are single-seat, wheel-based transports powered solely by electric motors. Their maximum speed

Credit: tovsla/Shutterstock.com

Clampdown on scooters

ELECTRIC SCOOTERS: Speed control is now crucial.

is capped between six and 25 km/h. If the scooter is fitted with a seat or saddle, it must also have a self-balancing system. Speed control is crucial. The scooter’s motor will cease to propel the vehicle once it reaches 25 km/h. Additionally, an anti-tampering system is mandatory, preventing any modifications to increase speed. Visibility and safety are enhanced with required indicators for speed and battery level. Reflectors are a must: white at the

front, white or auto-yellow on the sides, and red at the rear. The brake light should be distinct or combined with the rear light. Furthermore, there is a stipulation for minimum wheel diameter, and tyres which must have tread for better traction. Scooters are not permitted on crossroads, interurban roads, highways, or through urban tunnels. pavement usage in cities is also prohibited. As recognised vehicles, their drivers must adhere to all traffic regulations.

24 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024 WINE enthusiasts, mark your calendars for February 3 and join the fun at Martha’s Vineyard in Moraira for a delightful tour of Spain’s diverse wine regions. Kicking off at 5.00pm, your wine journey will commence with the Atlantic region of Spain,

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Wine Tour where you will savour exquisite white wines. Experience the richness of a Basque Country white and the distinctive Albariño grape variety. Sample a refreshing

rosé from Comunidad Valenciana, Utiel Requena, crafted from the Mencia variety. Continuing the exploration, you can indulge in two outstanding reds,

a blend of Pinot Noir, Monastrell, and Syrah from Murcia’s highest vineyards in Europe, and a memorable Tempranillo from Rioja Alavesa. Throughout the evening, you can delve into the unique terroirs, grape varietals, and winemaking traditions that make each region special. Learn about the flavour profiles and how they mirror the characteristics of the land where the grapes are grown. Martha will be your guide, sharing insights into the history, culture, and traditions of Spain’s winemaking regions. This event caters to wine enthusiasts of all levels, whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just starting your wine journey. Martha’s Vineyard is located at Ctra. Moraira a Teulada, 42, Moraira. For more information or to secure your spot, visit the website: mar thasvineyard.es.

Man in the Mirror

Image: Michael Starring Ben - The Tribute Show / Facebook

TRIBUTE ACT: Offers a nostalgic journey back in time.

MICHAEL JACKSON fans will be delighted to hear an iconic tribute act is heading to Benidorm on April 14 at 8.30pm. ‘Michael® Starring Ben’ offers a nostalgic journey back in time to celebrate the life, music, and magic of Michael Jackson. This successful theatre production features the UK’s ultimate Michael Jackson tribute star, Ben Bowman. Known for not only resembling and sounding like the King of Pop but also perfecting his routine to the point where audiences believe they are witnessing Michael Jackson himself. The show includes a live band, dazzling costumes, and iconic dance routines, showcasing Michael Jackson’s greatest hits and songs from The Jackson 5. Expect to hear classics like ‘Beat It’, ‘Billie Jean’, ‘Thriller’, and ‘Man in The Mirror’. Seats are assigned based on the order of reservations received, and if needed, tables may be shared. Don’t miss your chance to witness this extraordinary musical journey at the Benidorm Palace, located at Avenida Dr Severo Ochoa, 13, 03503. For more information and ticket details, reach out via email to info@benidorm-palace.com or give them a call on (+34) 965 851 660 or (+34) 965 851 661.

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Image: Ayuntamiento de Altea

Open-air celebration

EXHIBITION: The outdoor event has been transformed into an open-air exhibition space.

A SECTION of the El Bol promenade in Altea has undergone a transformation into an open-air exhibition space. The exhibition is a showcase of 21 reproduced works by the renowned Altea painter Juan Navarro Ramón. This exhibition is part of the commemorative events organised by the Altea Town Hall to celebrate the 120th anniversary of the artist’s birth, a series of events initiated in March of the previous year. The outdoor exhibition comprises five numbered totems, allowing viewers to follow the chronological jour-

ney of the painter through concise texts and witness a selection of 21 works created by Navarro Ramón between 1925 and 1980. Twenty of these artworks belong to the municipal collection, a generous donation of 232 works - comprising 181 oil paintings, lithographs, engravings, drawings, and mixed media pieces - made by the artist during his lifetime to the town hall. Subsequently, his nephew and heir, Javier Barrio Navarro, contributed to this collection. A notable inclusion in the

exhibition is the reproduction of ‘Et Venjarem’, a painting exhibited in the pavilion of the Spanish Republic during the Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1937. This piece, along with Picasso’s ‘Guernica’ and Joan Miró’s ‘Els segadors’, united three international artists in denouncing the atrocities of the Civil War. ‘Et Venjarem’ remains the property of the Ministry of Culture and is under the care of the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, although it is not currently on public display.

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Dame Dolly ‘Aladdin’, and the towering success, ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ (where Dame Dolly also wowed audiences), this new show promises to be an explosive celebration of musicals, movies, and all things fabulously iconic!

Prepare for a night of glitz, glam, and giggles as Dame Dolly takes centre stage, bedazzling the audience with her trademark wit, charm and fabulous frocks. As if that wasn’t enough, the show boasts a star-stu-

dded line-up, featuring the internationally acclaimed vocalist, Jesus Vidoretta, known for serenading audiences across the seven seas. Jesus is joined by the fabulous Dame Dolly dancers on loan from the Baila con Cameron Dance & Theatre School. So, grab your glitter, strap on your sequins, and get ready for a night of laughter, glamour, and pure entertainment, because Dame Dolly is at it again, and this time, she wants you there!! Book your tickets now via the website: ticketsource. co.uk/bccproductions Catch Dame Dolly at Teatre El Patio de Butacas, Avda de Catalunya, 2, El Pla del Real, 46021 Valencia on February 24 at 7.30pm.

Dolly’s at it again.

Image: Baila con Cameron-Valencia / Facebook.

VALENCIA, Brace yourselves, darlings, because the dazzling diva, Dame Dolly, is back in town, and this time, she’s turning up the sparkle level with her latest extravaganza, ‘Dame Dolly at it Again’. Brought to you by the brilliant minds that conjured up sell-out sensations like ‘Wickedly Ever After’,

euroweeklynews.com II SOCIAL SCENE

Champagne Supernova

Image: Acoustic Moon / Facebook

ACOUSTIC MOON: Will be presenting their Oasis tribute.

JOIN the fun at Saxo in Moraira on Sunday, February 4, at 4.00pm for an enjoyable evening with live music and unforgettable hit tunes. Acoustic Moon will be presenting their Oasis tribute, featuring the iconic songs from the English rock band’s discography. Oasis is renowned for its success in the UK during the late 20th century, making this tribute a must-attend for fans. Entrance is free, all Saxo asks is that you come and have a good time, grab a drink, and immerse yourself in the music! Relax in the Saxo Chill Out Garden, where you can choose from a variety of drinks and food options. The garden opens an hour before the event starts and stays open late into the night. Find your way to Saxo, located at Carretera Moraira-Calpe 03724, Moraira. For more details, reach out via email at info@saxomoraira. com or call (+34) 627 825 732.

SOCIAL SCENE II euroweeklynews.com

1 - 7 February 2024

‘THE Ara Malikian World Tour’ is set to make a return to La Nucia on February 11 at 7.00pm. Ara Malikian, a Spanish violinist of Lebanese origin and Armenian descent, will take the audience on a musical journey through his life with his new album, ‘The Incredible History of Violin’. Having garnered global acclaim, Malikian has graced

Image: Ara Malikian / Facebook

Violinist extraordinaire

Ara Malikian returning.

the stages of major capitals worldwide, including London, Paris, Rome, Moscow, Buenos Aires, Mexico City, Lima, Santiago de Chile, Beijing, Hong Kong, Istanbul, Belgrade, Bratislava, Madrid, Lisbon, Berlin, and more. This concert promises a unique, intimate, and personal experience for attendees.

For more information or to reserve your tickets, La Nucia’s Auditorium can be reached at Plaça de l’Almàssera, 1, 03530 La Nucia, via email at cultura@lanucia.es, or by calling (+34) 966 897 570. The Box Office operates from Monday to Friday, with hours from 9.00am to 2.00pm and 5.00pm to 8.00pm, as well as Saturdays from 10.00am to 1.00pm.

Better World Carnestoltes Fiestas DENIA is set to celebrate Carnival 2024 on Saturday, February 10, starting at 5.00pm. The theme for this year’s carnival is ‘Building a Better World’, focusing on environmental protection, sustainability, and world peace. In an effort to decentralise the carnival celebration and involve different neighbourhoods of the city, the parade will take place throughout the centre. The parade is scheduled to begin at 5.30pm and will start from Calle La Via, proceeding along Calle Quevedo, passing through Plaza de Archiduque Carlos and Calle Patricio Ferrándiz, concluding on Calle Sagunto. The parade will feature a batucada, entertainers carrying buckets of different colours for recycling, and elements made with recyclable materials and symbols associated with peace.

THE Javea Carnestoltes Fiestas are scheduled to take place on Saturday February 10. The fiestas will feature two parades, one for children and another for adults, followed by parties and entertainment. The children’s parade will start at 5.30pm from the Plaza Constitución. After the children’s parade, there will be a children’s show titled ‘Fantasyland’. The adult parade will kick off at 11.30pm starting at the Plaza del Convent, concluding at Plaza de la Constitución. The president of the Commission mentioned that there will be prizes awarded for the best individual, couple, and group costumes, with cash awards of €50, €100, and €150, respectively.

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28 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024 Photo credit: Megan Mallen

euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE/NEWS

PIEDEMONT: One of Italy’s principal wine-growing areas.

Fewer Italians

Linda Hall ITALY is drinking less wine. Analysis by the Unione Italiana Vini (Uiv)-Ismea Observatory based on figures from data specialist Nielsen found that the country’s supermarkets, stores and distributors sold just under one billion bottles of wine in 2023. This was 3.1 per cent less than in 2022, with an 8 per cent dip over the five years between 2018 and 2023. According to the Observatory, 2023 was “a complicated year” owing to changes in post-pandemic consumption habits and generalised price rises. Red wines took the hardest hit, with a 15 per cent slump over the past five years although 19 per cent more people bought sparkling wines and Prosecco in 2023 than they did in 2019, with sales of 139 million bottles. Rose enjoyed a 17 per cent increase

ADVERTISING FEATURE WHAT are Power-lift chairs used for? Power-lift chairs are recliners used to assist a person in standing up. Power-lift chairs are fitted with a single or double electric motor to raise and recline the chair itself. Who should use a lift chair? A lift chair can be perfect for people whose mobility challenges make it difficult for them to rise out of a chair from a sitting position, or to sit down from a standing one due to pain or lack of muscle strength. Lift chairs are not only comfortable pieces of furniture, but also have many physical and emotional benefits. They can help seniors maintain their independence, as they assist with mobility. Research supports the claim that lift chairs help seniors sit and stand faster. Is a power recliner the same as a power lift chair? In short no. While a power recliner facilitates elevating one’s feet and leaning back with just a push of a button, in addition to that, a power lift chair will effortlessly tilt up from the floor and gently tip you forward onto your feet. What is the difference between a single motor chair and a twin motor chair? A twin motor chair enables the back rest and footrest to be used independently of

over this same period. But although the Italians might be drinking less wine than previously, the Observatory also found that they were becoming more discerning. Overall sales of wine with DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) label fell by just two per cent while white wine saw a 3 per cent increase since pre-pandemic 2019. The Observatory also found that people buying online ordered more DOP and TGI (Typical Geographical Indication) wines which accounted for 75 per cent of the total purchases of non-sparkling wines. Online purchases have increased threefold since 2019, the Observatory noted, although internet orders had declined by 21 per cent over the past two years, compared with the high of 2021.

Flight bomb scare

THE National Court has recently delivered a verdict in a case involving a young British man’s ‘joke’ bomb hoax, while he was about to board a flight to Menorca. On July 3, 2022, the accused, a 19-year-old man of Indian origin holding a British passport, sent a Snapchat message to a private group of friends while preparing to board a flight from London to Menorca. The message, which included a photo of himself and a text stating, ‘On the way to fly the plane (I am a member of the Taliban)’, was picked up by British security. The plane, flying over French airspace at the time, was then escorted by a Eurofighter from the Spanish air force to its destination in Menorca. Upon landing, the plane and its passengers

Credit: Juan Ci/Shutterstock.com

NOT GUILTY: The court decided it was meant as a joke.

underwent isolation and a thorough check, which conﬁrmed the absence of any explosives or indications of a genuine threat. In his nine-page ruling, Judge Jose Manuel Fernandez-Prieto of the Central Criminal Court analysed the facts and the legal implications. He concluded that the accused’s actions did not constitute a crime. The judge noted that the message was intended as a private joke among friends,

with no evidence of any intention to provoke the mobilisation of security forces. The court remained uncertain about how British security services intercepted the private message, as this was not substantiated during the trial. This case highlights the delicate balance between personal jokes and public security, raising questions about privacy and the unforeseen impact of seemingly harmless actions.

POWER-LIFT CHAIRS

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each other. With a single motor chair, the footrest would need to be fully raised before the back rest could be adjusted. Either option would require the back and footrest to be in the default position before engaging the lift. What is the average cost of a lift chair? You can expect to pay anything from €600 to €1,600, depending on the speciﬁcations of the chair and the covering, which

could be fabric or leather. An average cost would be around €1,100. Do lift chairs need to be plugged in? Lift chairs do require power, which means plugging them into a regular power socket or running them on battery power. Batteries are available to buy from Harris Furnishings. How long do lift recliners last? On average, you can expect a recliner to last about 10 years with regular use. A chair

infrequently used may last longer, while one exposed to the challenges of kids and pets may not live quite as long. How long should I expect to wait when ordering a power lift chair? It is common for lead times to be much quicker for power lift chairs, compared to the six to 16-week time frame you would usually expect when ordering furniture. In fact, it is not unusual for them to have an express lead time of two to seven days. Do power lift chairs have any additional features? Often power lift chairs have a side pocket for storing small items such as remote controls or magazines. Some come with a feature which allows the occupant to be wheeled around and some can even have an attachable table. Harris Furnishings in Pedreguer stock a fabulous range of power lift chairs to suit all tastes and budgets. With express delivery on selected models, and a personal home delivery and installation service, you could be experiencing the beneﬁts of a power lift chair within days!

Drop in anytime Monday to Friday 10am to 5.30pm or Saturday by prior appointment. www.harrisfurnishings.com - 966 469 371 / 699 836 251

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30 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE

EXCLUSIVE CONVERSATION

John Smith IN 1963, a 17-year-old drummer Barry Whitwam agreed to join Herman and the Hermits on the understanding that they changed their name to Herman’s Hermits. Now just about 60 years on, he is still their drummer and the band is still going strong, touring the world and on Sunday February 11, they will be making an appearance at the Benidorm Palace supported by another 60s band, The Foundations. There aren’t many British ‘pop’ or ‘rock’ groups still playing six decades on with original members and apart from the Rolling Stones with Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, Barry must be one of the few still standing (or in his case sitting as he is a drummer). He kindly spent some time sharing some amazing anecdotes as well as explaining why he is still playing and what the band is getting up to in the 21st century. One of the earliest members of the British invasion of America, between 1964 and 1968 they had two Number 1 Billboard hits with Mrs Brown You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter and I’m Henry VIII, I Am and every one of their singles made the US top 40 in that time. They have actually sold

Credit: Herman’s Hermits Barry Whitwam Facebook

60 years a drummer in the same group

Herman’s Hermits still playing to their fans.

around 80 million records worldwide and Barry said “We were very fortunate in having the legendary Mickie Most as our manager at the start and he just knew what songs we should record in order to get into the charts.” The band, with Peter Noone at the time, were nominated for numerous Grammys, losing out on one occasion to a young Welsh

singer called Tom Jones and they appeared on all of the major US TV programmes of the time. “Our success allowed us to undertake a number of US tours and we were able to choose our support bands, so we invariably tried to help new British acts break in America and they included The Hollies and The Animals, but the band I remember

with the greatest affection was The Who. “I still laugh thinking about the audiences who watched Keith Moon blow up his drum kit whilst Pete Townsend smashed his guitar as they climaxed their act with My Generation, then we appeared on stage playing one of our many melodious love songs! “On that tour I can say I

was part of the rock and roll touring lifestyle as Keith and I both celebrated our 21st birthdays at a Holiday Inn in Flint, Michigan - suffice to say we trashed the hotel and theoretically I am still banned from every Holiday Inn in the USA. “Another time we were in Hawaii finishing a US tour and we got a call from Colonel Tom Parker, Elvis Pres-

965 851 660 • benidormpalace.com

ley’s manager inviting us to meet him on a local film set and Peter and I spent two memorable hours with this true southern gentleman. “I still have a framed photograph of the meeting on a wall in my house and it’s a really proud memory.” Although the band have played in many countries around the world and their upcoming tour of Australia is their 40th, they haven’t played that often in Spain, so they are really looking forward to the Benidorm Palace night. “We visited in September to see what the venue was like and it’s fantastic, great stage, lovely venue and their Fire show is spectacular, so it is going to be really exciting to play there in February. “The audience can expect to hear all of our greatest hits, but because they tend to be fairly mellow love songs, we have written a few rockers which should add to the excitement.” Now in his late 70s, Barry has no intention of slowing down “I love the adrenalin rush whist waiting backstage to get out performing and I still love seeing audiences enjoying our performance.” Visit the Benidorm Palace website to book your ticket to see Herman’s Hermits and the Foundations.

32 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

IRELAND Toy story AN investigation into broadcaster RTE’s Toy Show The Musical found there was no record that the RTE Board ever gave its approval for the musical at Dublin’s Convention Centre in December 2022. Expert advice was allegedly ignored and the project accumulated €2.2 million in losses after a shortfall in ticket sales.

Free trees TRINITY COLLEGE, Dublin, gave away more than 100 birch seedlings that sprang up during 2023’s No Mow May initiative to provide wildflowers for pollinators. As the seedlings grew, the lawns were left unmown until the following September, after which they were potted and cared for by the university’s gardeners.

SWEDEN

euroweeklynews.com II EUROPEAN PRESS

EUROPRESS NORWAY Here to stay KING HARALD once more stressed that unlike Queen Margarethe of Denmark, he had no plans to abdicate in favour of his son and heir, Prince Haakon. King Harald, who will be 87 on February 21 said that he swore an oath to parliament when he came to the throne 33 years ago “and it is for life,” he added. KING HARALD: Norway’s king has no intention of abdicating.

ITALY

GERMANY Joint plan HEALTH minister Karl Lauterbach expects the Bundestag national parliament to pass the Cannabis Act legalising marihuana in February. The new legislation could come into force by April, despite opposition from some regions, including Bavaria, and even members of Lauterbach’s own Social Democrats party.

Keep clear

Photo credit: CC/Samediggi-Sametinget

FRANCE

ANTI-ABORTION activists could soon face fines of up to €5,000 for demonstrating or approaching the public within a 100-metre radius of family planning centres or clinics where terminations are performed. Once a draft law goes through, they are also prevented from displaying intimidating posters or handing out leaflets.

DENMARK

Work permits

Not so hot

All the same

Old words

SWEDEN’S Migration Agency issued 102,139 new resident permits in 2023, a 28 per cent reduction on the 143,179 granted in 2022. These included 36,000 work permits which, again, were down on the previous year’s 41,396, with the majority issued to berry pickers, IT architects, system developers and test leaders.

THE famous calendar featuring ‘hot’ young priests on sale in Rome’s newspaper kiosks and souvenir shops is an annual bestseller, although the photographer responsible for the photos admitted that few are actually priests. “But the intention was to give a profile to priests as a symbol of Rome,” he told Il Post newspaper.

THE French government intends to “erase inequality and create conditions for respect” by introducing uniforms in all state school pupils, beginning with a trial period for 100 chosen centres. According to the national media, the authorities have settled on a white or grey polo shirt, a blue jersey and grey trousers.

RUNES were the alphabet of Denmark’s earliest written language and archaeologists believe they have located the oldest inscription yet discovered in Odense on the island of Funen. Etched 2,000 years ago on an eight-centimetre knife found in a grave there, the five characters spell out ‘hirila’, meaning ‘little sword’.

Hack attack

Foraging mishap

Breathe easy

Careful move

ALONG with other public authorities, the Swedish parliament was affected by a ransomware hit on IT supplier Tietoevry’s data centre by the Russian group Akira between January 20 and 21. This involved Primula, a human resources system that is used by 120 public bodies including the parliament offices.

BRITON Steven Harper (38), who had planned to cycle from Dundee to India, plummeted to his death from a cliff in Ventimiglia, presumably on becoming delirious after eating foraged wild mushrooms. Helicoptered to hospital after he was seen falling, the father of two died of injuries caused by the fall.

ANALYSES carried out for the regional transport system found ‘high particle pollution’ at the Belleville, Oberkampf and Jaures metro stations in Paris. Environmentalists had already attributed the high air pollution in some parts of the metro system to the trains’ mechanical brakes applied each time they came to a stop.

DENMARK will grant more work permits for immigrants who work in the social care sector, after MPs and the government reached agreement on increasing the country’s Positive List scheme for ‘desired professions’. This will now enable 1,000 foreign applicants to enter the country to work in the care sector.

BELGIUM

THE NETHERLANDS

FINLAND

PORTUGAL

Pay up

Eco-friendly

Less aid

Name sakes

BELGIUM’S expatriate tax scheme, introduced in 1983 for residents who were hired from abroad, came to an end in January 2024. Only residents who earn more than an annual €75,000 gross or are engaged in scientific, industrial, technological or academic research are now eligible for the scheme.

A SURVEY by two labour economists found that an increasing number of residents would prefer to work for a climate-conscious company rather than a firm without sustainability goals. Some said that they would be willing to take a ‘considerable’ cut in their wages in order to work for a sustainable employer.

FINLAND’S Foreign Trade and Development ministry confirmed that the government is cutting foreign aid, multilateral co-operation, humanitarian assistance, development loans and investments by more than a billion euros. This includes discontinuing the Afghanistan, Kenya, Mozambique and Myanmar programmes.

PORTUGAL’S Statistics Institute (INE) revealed that the country’s four most-encountered names were Maria for females and Francisco, Tiago and Duarte (a variation on Eduardo) for males. Most common surnames were found to be Silva, Nunes, Santos and Ferreira, the same source announced.

Extra mile FOOD packaging in Flanders will include information about animal production standards, identifying products from companies that follow ethical procedures when raising animals. “The public can now see which producers go the extra mile for animal welfare and which do not,” Flanders’ Animal Welfare ministry said.

Not wanted A TOTAL of 1,040 British residents had to leave the Schengen area as well as Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland in 2023. The Netherlands was responsible for 275 expulsions, more than any other nation, after Brits overstayed, had residence and work permits rejected or, in some cases, committed serious crimes.

Northern lights THE forecasting service introduced 20 years ago to inform the public when they are most likely to see the aurora borealis uses fluctuations in the Earth’s magnetic field to predict the chances of aurora appearances. This has now has been ‘significantly upgraded’ to enhance accuracy, Finland’s meteorological service said.

Fado feature THE Poor Things film soundtrack composed by British pop musician Jerskin Fendrix has been nominated for Best Original Score in the upcoming Oscars to be held next month. This includes a Fado performed by Carminho who has a role in the film, singing and playing the guitar in an imaginary Lisbon.

NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

1 - 7 February 2024

WITH the continual rise in grocery prices, navigating the supermarket without overspending is a challenge. Here are just a few tips on how to optimise your food expenses effectively. An obvious one, but creating a family shopping list is crucial. By collectively deciding on necessary items, you can avoid impulse buys and stick to essentials. It’s vital to follow this list strictly, resisting the lure of unnecessary purchases. Opting for store brands, often referred to as ‘white label’ products, can cut your grocery bill significantly. These products offer good quality at lower prices, with the potential of saving you around 35 to 45 per cent annually. This doesn’t mean forgoing all premium brands, rather, it’s about identifying where brand choice truly matters. In cases where brand isn’t a key factor, switching to more affordable store brands

Credit: Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock.com

Shop smart spend less

MAKE SAVINGS: Avoid impulse buys and stick to essentials.

can make a big difference. The choice of supermarket can impact your budget substantially. The price difference for the same items can vary greatly among stores. Avoid shopping on an empty stomach to resist impulse buys, especially unhealthy snacks. Always compare the cost per kilo or unit, rather than just the total price. This helps in identifying truly cost-effective options. If you have ample storage, take advantage of bulk buying and special offers

like ‘buy one get one half price’ or ‘three for the price of two’ on items you regularly use. Finally, make the most of loyalty programmes offered by supermarkets such as Carrefour, Dia, Consum, or Alcampo for additional discounts and savings. Implementing these strategies can significantly reduce your supermarket spending, leading to substantial savings over time. Remember, small changes can make a big difference.

Spain’s longest wall WALLED cities are not uncommon in Spain, however, one of its most impressive and officially the longest in the country is tucked away near the border with Portugal. Have you ever wondered about Spain’s longest wall? The answer lies not in famous sites like the walls of Lugo or Avila, but in the less well-known location of Badajoz, Extremadura. This city, steeped in a history of border clashes with Portugal, hosts the continent’s most extensive fortification. Constructed between the 17th and 18th centuries, Badajoz’s wall system epitomises an era marked by military innovation. Influenced by the designs of French military engineer Sebastien Le Prestre, Marquis of Vauban, these fortifications are a continuation of earlier defensive structures. The initial walls, dating back to the ninth and 11th centuries, were erected by prominent Muslim leaders, including Ibn Marwan, Abd Allah Ibn Muhammad Ibn Abd al-Rahman, and Abdullah Ibn el-Aftas. The 17th century brought renewed focus on Badajoz’s defences, following Portugal’s independence in 1640. The city’s strategic position demanded an enhanced defensive system, leading to the construction of the ‘Baluarted Wall’. Visitors to Badajoz can explore nume-

Credit: Michael Newman/Creative Commons Attribution 3.0

The city wall of Alcazaba, Badajoz.

rous bastions and gates along the wall. Among them, the 16th-century Puerta de Merida and the 1680 Trinity Gate showcase classicist designs and royal emblems. Notable too are the 16th-century Puerta del Pilar and the 1460 Puerta de las Palmas, each displaying distinctive architectural elements. The wall’s bastions, such as San Pedro, Santa Maria, and San Vicente, highlight strategic points around the city. The wall’s length and complexity, spanning approximately five kilometres, make it a remarkable and historically significant structure, second only to the wall of Pamplona in terms of perimeter.

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FINANCE BUSINESS EXTRA Fizz sells

CHAPEL DOWN, which produces English sparkling wine in Kent, announced sales of £15 million (€17.5 million) in 2023, a 14 per cent increase as the company nabbed part of Champagne’s market share. Turnover had also been assisted by a 12 per cent increase in prices, chief executive Andrew Carter said.

Car sales

THE Spanish government received €724 million from vehicle registration tax in 2023. This was more than at any time since the outbreak of the Covid pandemic, and also the highest figure since the record sum of €1.08 billion charged during the pre-crisis boom year of 2008, tax authority Hacienda’s record showed.

Boohoo move

AFTER occupying the post for two years, Boohoo’s chief financial officer Shaun McCabe resigned ‘with immediate effect’ by mutual agreement on January 23. His role in the company, which owns Karen Millen, PrettyLittleThing and Dorothy Perkins. will be taken over by former Betfair and Zoopla executive Stephen Morana.

Long story short

SPAIN’S National Securities Market Commission (CNMV) is examining documents provided by pharmaceuticals company Grifols, accused of misrepresenting its debts and financial position by short sellers Gotham City Research.

Milk run

WINCANTON, a haulage company founded in 1925 to transport milk, agreed a £765 million (€894.4 million) takeover by a subsidiary of CMA CGA, the French shipping and logistics company. This is owned by billionaire Rodolphe Saade and his family, whose combined wealth is estimated at $9.8 billion (€9.05 billion).

euroweeklynews.com • 1 - 7 February 2024

STAT OF WEEK

€30.3 billion

was paid out in dividends to shareholders in companies quoted on Spain’s Ibex 35 index in 2023, the highest figure since 2019 and 16.6 per cent up on 2022.

Never on Saturday

Linda Hall ROYAL MAIL could save £650 million (€760.8 million) annually by delivering letters three days each week. Eliminating now-obligatory Saturday deliveries and distributing letters five times a week would save between £100 million (€117.1 million) and £200 million (€234.2 million), Ofcom, the UK’s Communications regulator, said. Future changes could include first and second-class deliveries taking up to three days or longer, with a next-day service for urgent letters. Calculating that the universal service obligation

Photo credit: CC/kitmasterbloke

ROYAL MAIL: Saturday deliveries could be phased out.

(USO) costs Royal Mail between £325 million (€380.4 million) and £675 million (€790.1 million), Ofcom also suggested maintaining Saturday deliveries while supporting the company with a state subsidy or a levy on other industry operators.

CRYPTOCURRENCY is joining forces with sport through crypto fan tokens. These allow football fans to invest in their club while giving them a say in management decisions as well as access to some exclusives. But do they make a profit on their investment? Crypto tax experts CoinLedger analysed the actions of fan tokens in 2023. Using this data they calculated how much a $100 (€91.80) fan token investment made on January 1, 2023 would be worth 12 months later. “For context, Bitcoin had a 155.18

Ofcom’s chief executive Dame Melanie Dawes stressed that postal workers were “critical” to Britain’s communities. “But we’re sending half as many letters as we did in 2011 and receiving many more parcels,” she said.

Dawes added that the USO, which has not changed since then, was out of date and would become financially and operationally unsustainable unless action was taken. An Ofcom survey found that reliable letter deliveries was important for 88 per cent of respondents while Saturday deliveries were still important for 58 per cent, compared with 63 per cent in 2020. Meanwhile, Postal Affairs minister Kevin Hollinrake told a Radio Times interviewer that Britain’s PM, Rishi Sunak was “very clear” that a six-day delivery was important for people and businesses.

Highs and lows Photo credit: CC/Beric Dondarrion

BOLOGNA FC: Italian team gave best return on fan tokens.

per cent increase in 2023 so $100 invested in Bitcoin on January 1, 2023, was worth $255.17 (€234.23) on January 1, 2024,” CoinLedger explained.

Football apart, the experts found that Bologna FC gave the best return. Bologna is one of Italy’s few sides with fan tokens, which in January 2023 cost $0.24 (€0.22) each. A $100 outlay would now be worth $273.48 (€251.10) an increase of 173.48 per cent while outperforming Bitcoin by 18.3 per cent in 2023. Barcelona FC, however, languished three from the bottom on CoinLedger’s list, as its $3.49 (€3.20) fan tokens fell to $2.29 (€2.10), with the initial $100 now worth (€60.18).

Hypocritical Thriving regions Vegan rescue

TATA, confirmed on January 19 that it would close Port Talbot’s two blast furnaces, resulting in 2,800 job losses. Citing the need to reduce carbon emissions, the steelworks’ India-based owners said the furnaces would be replaced with an electric arc furnace, prompting accusations of “gross hypocrisy” from the unions. According to reports in the Guardian, they said this environmental excuse was contradicted by Tata’s plans for a giant blast furnace at its Kalinganagar industrial centre in eastern India. The workers and the unions also criticised the UK government, which they said should have offered more financial incentives to persuade Tata to support domestic steel production.

SPAIN’S northern regions are expected to drive the increase in 2024’s gross domestic product (GDP). “Goods manufacturing will continue to be the economy’s principal energiser,” BBVA Research’s latest Regional Analysis predicted, with Cantabria and Navarra leading the country’s growth rate. A slowdown in exports, coupled with still-high energy prices and increased interest rates had combined to produce a generalised cutback in regional forecasts, BBVA Research said. The Basque Region, Aragon, Galicia, Castilla y Leo, Cantabria and Navarra economies were expected to grow by just over 2 per cent in 2024 compared with Spain’s national average of 1.5 per cent, three-10ths less than last autumn’s estimates. BBVA Research foresaw more economic brio in 2025 with growth averaging 2.5 per cent thanks to increased domestic and European demand, as well as tourism.

HEATHER MILLS has saved her VBites company from collapse. A £1 million (€1.17 million) deal brought the business out of administration after escalating overheads and competition from cheaper vegan rivals had left Mills with losses of £3.1 million (€3.6 million). She complained at the time that she received only three days’ notice of the administration notice. Although the rescue covers Mills’ assets and factories in County Durham and Northamptonshire, 64 VBites employees were made redundant, although Beatle Paul McCartney’s ex-wife has pledged to reinstate them.

Big names ONE of the newly-created Hyperion Fund FCR’s partners has been revealed as Pablo Casado, president of the Partido Popular party until April 2022. The venture capital fund will focus on aerospace, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and dual-use defence items, excluding arms and lethal material, which also have civilian applications. “This growth equity fund aims to raise €150 million and invest in emerging European technological companies, paying particular attention to small and medium Spanish companies while supporting their growth,” Hyperion said. Ricardo Gomez-Acebo Botin, nephew of Santander chair Ana Botin, was named as another of the fund’s five partners.

Offer almost accepted TELEFONICA’S holding in its Germany subsidiary increased from 71.81 per cent to 93.10 per cent. The €1.48 billion cash operation was carried out by Telefonica’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Telefonica Local Services. The offer announced in November 2023 was accepted by 7.86 per cent of Telefónica Deutschland’s shareholders although Telefonica had also acquired approximately 13.43 per cent of the German subsidiary’s share capital and voting rights. This included the settlement of financial instruments that gave the Spanish multinational the right to acquire approximately 1.32 per cent of Telefonica Deutschland’s share capital.

Paper woes BRITAIN’s government should intensify the investigation into the Telegraph takeover, former Health minister Neil O’Brien said. RedBird IMI, the Abu Dhabi-backed investment fund mainly financed by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s vice-president and Manchester City FC owner, is settling the Telegraph owners’ £1.6 billion debt with Lloyds Bank. Once the operation was completed, RedBird maintained it would convert the loan to take possession of the publication and it could still decide its ownership even if the bid were blocked.

36 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II FINANCE

LONDON - FTSE 100

Closing Prices 29 January

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

3I Group.....................................2.432,00.............+21,00........... +0,87%...........1,42M Admiral Group.............................2.503,0............... -14,0.............-0,56%........... 17,14K Airtel Africa................................. 123,50................ -1,90.............-1,51%........... 98,50K Anglo American...........................1.875,8............... -12,4.............-0,66%.......... 173,70K Antofagasta................................1.697,00.............. -3,00.............-0,18%........... 32,51K Ashtead Group............................5.234,0............... -10,0.............-0,19%........... 25,13K Associated British Foods.............2.382,4................ -1,6..............-0,07%........... 30,22K AstraZeneca...............................10.602,0..............+56,0............ +0,53%.......... 43,71K Auto Trader Group Plc................ 739,60................ -2,20.............-0,30%.......... 146,53K Aviva........................................... 436,99................ -0,61.............-0,14%.......... 128,51K B&M European Value Retail SA... 537,80................ -0,40.............-0,07%........... 95,95K BAE Systems..............................1.191,50.............+23,50........... +2,01%......... 278,32K Barclays...................................... 149,74................+0,50............ +0,34%...........1,69M Barratt Developments................. 537,60................ -5,40.............-0,99%.......... 105,10K Beazley........................................ 543,50................ -1,50.............-0,28%........... 38,83K Berkeley......................................4.813,0............... -52,0.............-1,07%............ 4,44K BP............................................... 469,70................+8,00............ +1,73%...........2,79M British American Tobacco...........2.373,0...............+40,0............ +1,72%......... 375,83K BT Group.................................... 115,20................ -1,00.............-0,86%.......... 756,32K Bunzl...........................................3.177,0................ -7,0..............-0,22%........... 18,03K Burberry Group...........................1.334,5................ -7,0..............-0,52%........... 57,32K Centrica....................................... 137,22................ -0,43.............-0,31%.......... 725,24K Coca Cola HBC AG......................2.345,0................+3,0............. +0,13%.......... 13,72K Compass....................................2.161,00.............+14,00........... +0,65%.......... 93,92K ConvaTec Group......................... 238,60................ -1,80.............-0,75%........... 57,88K Croda Intl....................................4.697,0............... -59,0.............-1,24%........... 13,04K DCC.............................................5.716,0............... -44,0.............-0,76%............ 4,84K Diageo.........................................2.865,0...............+16,0............ +0,56%......... 241,32K Diploma.....................................3.306,00............. -28,00............-0,84%........... 10,34K DS Smith.................................... 288,10................ -3,20.............-1,10%.......... 135,49K Endeavour Mining......................1.434,00..............+8,00............ +0,56%.......... 14,81K Entain.......................................... 956,80............... -10,40............-1,08%........... 82,07K Experian......................................3.266,0................+8,0............. +0,25%.......... 47,27K F&C Invest.................................. 966,00................ -1,00.............-0,10%........... 55,54K Flutter Entertainment..................16.265,0.............. -60,0.............-0,37%............ 9,21K Frasers........................................ 808,50................+2,50............ +0,31%.......... 68,77K Fresnillo...................................... 510,00...............+11,20........... +2,25%.......... 50,34K Glencore...................................... 419,90................ -2,80.............-0,66%.......... 786,58K GSK plc......................................1.550,60.............+13,60........... +0,89%......... 162,34K HALEON...................................... 320,60................+2,80............ +0,88%......... 755,20K Halma..........................................2.163,0............... -32,0.............-1,46%........... 23,58K Hikma Pharma...........................1.904,00..............+4,00............ +0,21%........... 6,67K Howden Joinery.......................... 808,00................ -4,60.............-0,57%........... 18,38K HSBC.......................................... 621,23................+4,33............ +0,70%...........1,26M IAG.............................................. 151,85................ -2,20.............-1,43%............1,01M IMI PLC......................................1.679,00..............+9,00............ +0,54%.......... 32,97K Imperial Brands..........................1.947,32.............+13,32........... +0,69%......... 137,85K Informa....................................... 774,00................+2,60............ +0,34%.......... 70,09K InterContinental..........................7.484,0................+2,0............. +0,03%.......... 15,14K

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

Intermediate Capital...................1.789,00............. -26,00............-1,43%........... 61,69K Intertek........................................4.506,0...............+48,0............ +1,08%.......... 11,35K J Sainsbury................................. 274,30................ -1,70.............-0,62%.......... 170,23K JD Sports Fashion....................... 117,60................ -0,20.............-0,17%.......... 277,22K Kingfisher.................................... 220,50................ -4,60.............-2,04%.......... 275,78K Land Securities........................... 659,80................ -0,60.............-0,09%........... 44,89K Legal & General.......................... 254,74................ -0,76.............-0,30%.......... 654,80K Lloyds Banking............................ 42,14.................+0,04............ +0,10%...........5,92M London Stock Exchange..............9.044,0............... -26,0.............-0,29%........... 48,73K M&G........................................... 226,50................ -0,30.............-0,13%.......... 202,82K Marks & Spencer........................ 255,86................ -0,04.............-0,02%.......... 273,54K Melrose Industries...................... 585,48................+4,08............ +0,70%......... 123,98K Mondi.........................................1.459,00............. -32,55............-2,18%........... 55,40K National Grid..............................1.056,00.............+12,50........... +1,20%......... 308,72K NatWest Group........................... 223,80................ -0,20.............-0,09%............1,46M Next............................................8.488,0............... -20,0.............-0,23%............ 2,79K Ocado.......................................... 563,39............... -12,41............-2,16%........... 80,41K Pearson....................................... 973,20................+7,20............ +0,74%.......... 50,52K Pershing Square........................3.700,00.............+22,00........... +0,60%.......... 14,80K Phoenix....................................... 518,56................ -3,24.............-0,62%.......... 110,33K Prudential.................................... 846,00............... -12,20............-1,42%.......... 281,97K Reckitt Benckiser........................5.648,0............... -10,0.............-0,18%........... 42,49K Relx............................................3.289,00.............+13,00........... +0,40%......... 137,33K Rentokil....................................... 401,20................ -2,80.............-0,69%.......... 389,32K Rightmove.................................. 558,60................ -4,80.............-0,85%........... 39,61K Rio Tinto PLC..............................5.565,0...............+16,0............ +0,29%.......... 97,73K Rolls-Royce Holdings................. 303,70................ -1,70.............-0,56%............1,08M RS PLC....................................... 765,00................ -2,40.............-0,31%........... 24,19K Sage...........................................1.172,75.............. -5,75.............-0,49%.......... 136,32K Schroders.................................... 407,3................. -17,8.............-4,19%.......... 248,22K Scottish Mortgage....................... 777,00................ -4,40.............-0,56%.......... 121,23K Segro.......................................... 860,60................ -4,60.............-0,53%........... 58,91K Severn Trent...............................2.553,0................ -5,0..............-0,20%............ 9,42K Shell............................................2.469,0...............+39,5............ +1,63%......... 585,72K Smith & Nephew........................1.093,55............. -11,45............-1,04%........... 55,73K Smiths Group.............................1.651,00.............. -5,50.............-0,33%........... 10,64K Smurfit Kappa.............................3.054,0............... -46,0.............-1,48%........... 48,55K Spirax-Sarco Engineering...........9.916,0............... -54,0.............-0,54%............ 3,82K SSE............................................1.677,50............. -20,50............-1,21%.......... 323,99K St. James’s Place........................ 659,00............... -11,80............-1,76%........... 73,64K Standard Chartered..................... 609,00................+3,00............ +0,49%......... 132,07K Taylor Wimpey............................ 145,45................ -0,85.............-0,58%.......... 352,09K Tesco.......................................... 294,60................+1,10............ +0,38%......... 722,18K Unilever.......................................3.828,5................+5,0............. +0,13%......... 154,90K Unite..........................................1.002,00.............. -7,00.............-0,69%........... 17,83K United Utilities............................1.056,00.............. -1,50.............-0,14%........... 36,68K Vodafone Group PLC.................. 70,550............... -0,210............-0,30%............3,78M Weir Group................................1.812,82.............. -4,18.............-0,23%.......... 194,05K Whitbread...................................3.630,0............... -16,0.............-0,44%........... 15,78K WPP............................................ 770,00................+1,40............ +0,18%......... 101,04K

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1.17273

Units per € US dollar (USD)...................................1.0836 Japan yen (JPY)...................................160.27 Switzerland franc (CHF).......................0.9329 Denmark kroner (DKK)........................7.4536 Norway kroner (NOK)..........................11.278 currenciesdirect.com/moraira • Tel: +34 966 265 072 THE ABOVE TABLE USES THE CURRENT INTERBANK EXCHANGE RATES, WHICH AREN’T REPRESENTATIVE OF THE RATE WE OFFER

DOW JONES

Closing Prices 29 January

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

3M............................................... 96,00.................+0,02............ +0,02%...........3,63M American Express....................... 201,41...............+13,34........... +7,09%..........12,22M Amgen........................................ 311,77................+1,51............ +0,49%...........1,96M Apple........................................... 192,42................ -1,75.............-0,90%...........41,89M Boeing......................................... 205,50................+3,62............ +1,79%...........9,80M Caterpillar.................................... 299,41................ -1,36.............-0,45%............2,36M Chevron...................................... 149,15................+0,58............ +0,39%...........7,50M Cisco............................................ 52,14................. -0,19.............-0,36%...........12,58M Coca-Cola..................................... 59,37.................+0,21............ +0,36%..........12,16M Dow............................................. 54,06................. -0,88.............-1,60%............5,11M Goldman Sachs........................... 377,88................ -4,82.............-1,26%............3,38M Home Depot................................ 355,30................+4,33............ +1,23%...........2,95M Honeywell................................... 201,80................ -0,76.............-0,38%............1,74M IBM............................................. 187,36................ -3,07.............-1,61%............9,32M Intel.............................................. 43,65................. -5,90............-11,91%.........126,74M J&J............................................. 159,51................ -0,05.............-0,03%............4,35M JPMorgan................................... 172,28................ -0,66.............-0,38%............7,14M McDonald’s................................. 292,30................ -4,91.............-1,65%............3,98M Merck&Co................................... 120,81................+0,68............ +0,57%...........7,37M Microsoft.................................... 403,93................ -0,94.............-0,23%...........16,33M Nike............................................. 102,73................+1,96............ +1,95%...........8,63M Procter&Gamble......................... 156,15................+0,53............ +0,34%...........6,85M Salesforce Inc............................. 279,96................+0,93............ +0,33%...........4,73M The Travelers.............................. 211,45................ -0,07.............-0,03%.......... 921,82K UnitedHealth............................... 503,13................+9,73............ +1,97%...........6,10M Verizon......................................... 42,40.................+0,11............ +0,25%..........19,33M Visa A.......................................... 267,90................ -4,71.............-1,73%............8,36M Walgreens Boots.......................... 22,85................. -0,26.............-1,13%...........10,06M Walmart...................................... 164,29................+1,45............ +0,89%...........3,68M M - Million Dollars

NASDAQ

Closing Prices 29 January

Company

Change Net / %

Volume

Most Advanced AppFolio, Inc....................................................+28.26%.........................1.859M Galaxy Digital Holdings Ltd..............................+17.10%........................ 409,729 Lonza Group AG...............................................+14.04%........................ 788,176 Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corporation........+13.58%..........................2.37M Rémy Cointreau SA..........................................+13.37%........................ 163,990 Fanuc Corporation............................................+10.20%......................... 15,083 Marathon Digital Holdings, Inc..........................+9.71%.........................87.559M SGS SA.............................................................+9.02%.......................... 53,559 Freedom Holding Corp......................................+8.40%......................... 409,501 Glacier Bancorp, Inc..........................................+8.35%..........................1.595M M - Million Dollars

Most Declined Hub Group, Inc................................................ -50.48%........................ 266,180 WuXi Biologics (Cayman) Inc.......................... -16.20%........................ 559,124 Intel Corporation.............................................. -11.91%.......................127.665M ZKH Group Limited........................................... -9.93%.......................... 66,872 Lenovo Group Limited...................................... -8.53%.......................... 74,559 Chart Industries, Inc......................................... -7.54%..........................1.807M Fair Isaac Corporation....................................... -6.85%......................... 407,235 KLA Corporation............................................... -6.60%..........................2.195M Lattice Semiconductor Corporation.................. -6.52%..........................4.218M RWE Aktiengesellschaft.................................... -5.86%......................... 129,769 CG Oncology, Inc.............................................. -5.76%..........................1.719M 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 £0.86 to £0.85 EUR/USD: Down from $1.10 to $1.08 The euro got off to a poor start in 2024 as some disappointing data raised concerns over the Eurozone’s economic trajectory. The euro’s negative correlation with the US dollar also acted as a headwind for the single currency in recent weeks, amid a revival in demand for the safe-haven ‘greenback’. Hawkish commentary from the European Central Bank (ECB) helped to temper the downside in EUR exchange rates throughout the month, as officials continued to push back against interest rate cut expectations. However, the euro still ticked lower again after the ECB’s first interest rate decision of the year, as President Christine Lagarde wasn’t perhaps as forceful in dispelling rate cut bets as EUR

1 - 7 February 2024

EWN 37

CURRENCY OUTLOOK: EURO TUMBLES ON LACKLUSTRE DATA, US DOLLAR BOLSTERED BY GLOOMY MOOD investors had hoped. Looking ahead to February, the euro may remain on the defensive if Eurozone economic data continues to disappoint. Pound GBP/EUR: Up from €1.15 to €1.16 GBP/USD: Unchanged at $1.27 The pound trended broadly higher over the past month, but its ascent did not come without hurdles. This came as a result of some uneven UK data. While Sterling was supported by stronger-than-expected service sector growth and a surprise acceleration in inflation, it also faced headwinds as underwhelming GDP and retail sales figures stoked UK recession fears. GBP exchange rates were also influenced by Bank of England (BoE) rate cut speculation. Bets that the BoE could begin loosening monetary policy as soon as

EURO: Got off to a poor start in 2024 with some disappointing data.

April infused some volatility into the Pound in the latter half of the month. Looking ahead, the start of February will see the BoE deliver its first interest rate decision of 2024. No policy changes are expected next month, but the BoE’s forward guidance could provide a boost to the pound if it seeks to quell rate cut speculation.

US Dollar USD/GBP: Unchanged at $0.78 USD/EUR: Up from €0.90 to €0.91 The US dollar found its footing again in January, helping the currency to claw back a good portion of its losses from December. This recovery in ‘greenback’ has been driven primarily by risk-off flows as growing tensions in the Middle East and

concerns over China’s economy have stoked demand for the safe-haven currency. USD exchange rates have also been supported by a repricing of Federal Reserve rate cut bets. With the odds for a March rate cut having fallen from over 70% to around 50%. This comes in response to some stronger-than-expected US economic releases. The immediate focus for USD investors will be the Fed’s impending interest rate decision. Will the US central bank lean into expectations for a March rate hike? Or will the Fed adopt a more hawkish tone in order to quash this speculation? 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

Frightening to the core LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT DELIGHTED to see Trump still forging ahead in his race to re-establish the Republican crown; thereby bolstering his indomitable ambitions to regain his position in the White House. Before all you Trump haters start mailing in your, ‘anti Leapy’s opinions’ rhetoric, don’t get me wrong, I personally can’t stand the man. To me he is an egotistical, arrogant and utterly dangerous individual. Unfortunately, in today’s day and age, his reputation is exactly what the West requires to steer it through a minefield of world leaders who are bloated with precisely the same qualities. The soft woke approach of those affiliated to the doddering Biden and his implausible bunch of leftie helpers, especially his woke riddled vice president Kamala Harris is actually inviting disaster. ‘Fighting for the people’, which she continues to advocate, is simply in no way formidable enough to compete and even keep the peace (or pace) in a world that is run by the despotic likes

of Putin, Jinping, Khamenei and Kim Jong-un! If anybody can frighten these tyrants into hunkering down into negotiations it is an imperious autocrat like Mr Trump. One thing is for sure, the presidential contender is frightening all his political rivals to the very core. Have no doubt that those involved in the ‘Trump Hunt’ are wallowing in deep symposiums far into the night; all taking place in boardrooms comprised of individuals totally aware that should Trump be once again ensconced in the oval office, it’ll be bye bye to the lot of ‘em. Excluding of course those who see the popularity of their present administration slipping away and raise their heads above the parapet swearing their allegiance to the new leader before they get drummed into oblivion with the rest. (Heaven forbid they would need to sell the yacht or move into a smaller house!) At this moment however they are attempting just about every twist and turn they can to discredit their formidable rival before the votes pour in. They’ve even come up with a distinctly unwell woman who has managed to win a case against him for a rape accusation occurring years ago. The judgment,

undoubtedly brought about by members of the Biden supporters club, has awarded the ‘victim’ some 83 million dollars even though Trump professes to have never even met her. Maybe he has, maybe he hasn’t. I doubt if those who sat in judgment even actually cared. The important thing is the ‘Trump Hunt’ and the discredit it can bring. I also seem to recall this almost certainly equivalent legal mob, somehow damping down a highly illegal state of affairs concerning Biden’s son during his Dad’s own race for the White House. In fact these investigations have been going on pretty unobtrusively for years. Somewhat unsurprisingly it has recently resulted in a plea deal with prosecutors which avoids jail time and quietly squashes any insensitive talking points in the run up to Dad’s new presidential endeavours. What a bunch. Let’s just hope all these trumped up accusations actually come up trumps for Trumps triumph. Or you can probably deal us all out. 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.

An obvious scam Paul Edwards SOMETIMES one has to wonder who is most stupid, scammers or those who fall for what are obviously ill conceived and simply impossible scams. Happily, the average reader of Euro Weekly News is a lot brighter than the idiots behind what has been an ongoing attempted scam for several years. We were sent this by a reader who lives in Costa Blanca and received an email purportedly from the Head of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Interpol accusing them of all kinds of nefarious activities. They are asked to respond to this email which has mysteriously found its way from Canada to Brazil (it reads cesar@ aluno.edu.jaru.ro.gov. br) confirming which jurisdiction they live in so that the necessary

Credit: hackNY.org flickr

38 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

All a scammer needs is a computer and email account.

warrant can be served on them. Clearly the hope is that the person receiving the email will respond and thus their email address is verified which leaves them open to further approaches from the potential scammers. To some extent it would make some element of sense if you live in Canada to receive an email from the Canadian Police (even though it’s obviously false) but the mentality of those sending this accusation to Spain almost beggars belief.

INTERVIEW

Johanna from Finland Johanna Pesonen’s sister has lived in Spain for over 20 years, so her whole family have always had one foot on the ground here and one foot still in Finland. “THE weather is definitely the thing for me: here than in Finland is the bureaucracy, the sun and the relaxed atmosphere, things “I miss being able to do whatever I need that appealed far more than in my home online. Here you can lose an entire day country. If we could have this climate in in an office to sort out just one conFinland, we would be overpotract.” pulated,” said Johanna. Johanna visits Finland Johanna Pesonen is whenever possible, “I CEO of Fuengirola have my family thereal estate agency re, I have friends Huugo247 and there and I will has no regrets always have about moFinland as my ving here, “if home counanything it has try.” She went only got cleaon to say, “In rer that I may Finland we not be able to wait nine monever move back,” ths every year she said. for the sun so we For her the best can emerge from our thing about living on caves! Here, outside Johanna likes the outdoor life. the Costa del Sol is the activities are available possibility to enjoy outside life alall year round.” most every day of the year. “I am more actiLooking to the future Johanna believes ve in my free time here and have had more she will stay here for the rest of her life. “Of time for my family,” she added. course, you never know, but at the moment The only thing Johanna thinks is worse that’s how I feel,” she concluded.

HEALTH & BEAUTY II euroweeklynews.com

Supplements MAINTAINING optimal health often involves a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sometimes, the right supplements. Multivitamins are a popular choice, offering a comprehensive range of essential vitamins and minerals that may be missing from your diet. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, are crucial for heart and brain health, and have anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin D is another key supplement, especially for those with limited sun exposure, supporting bone health and immune function. Probiotics are beneficial for gut health, aiding in digestion and boosting the immune system. Lastly, magnesium is often overlooked but vital for muscle function, sleep regulation, and stress management. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen, as needs can vary based on individual health conditions and lifestyles.

Hand sanitiser IN our daily lives, hand sanitiser plays a crucial role in promoting health and hygiene. Its primary benefit is the ability to quickly and effectively kill a wide range of potentially harmful microorganisms on hands. This is particularly important in situations where soap and water are not readily available. Regular use of hand sanitiser can significantly reduce the spread of germs, including those that cause illnesses such as colds, flu, and gastrointestinal infections. By using hand sanitiser, especially after touching public surfaces or before eating, you can protect yourself and others from these common ailments. Additionally, it’s a convenient, portable solution for maintaining hand cleanliness, supporting a healthier community and lifestyle.

1 - 7 February 2024

EWN 39

Quality of life Help to stop smoking

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Appointments Landline: 965 837 553 / 965 837 851 • 24H/365D Emergency Number: (+34) 607 255 755 • Opening Times: Mon - Fri: 9:00am / 5:00pm Clinica Britannia Calpe Av. Ejercitos Españoles 16 BIS, 1st Floor, Calpe

TAKING your health seriously from a young age is pivotal for long-term well-being. Early habits set the foundation for future health, impacting how we age physically and mentally. Engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring adequate sleep are crucial. These habits help in building strong bones, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers.

Additionally, mental health is equally important; managing stress, fostering social connections, and seeking help when needed are essential for emotional resilience. Young adults who prioritise their health are also more likely to carry these positive habits into later life, ensuring not just a longer lifespan, but a more vibrant and fulfilling one. The choices made in youth can profoundly influence overall quality of life in the years to come.

40 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II HEALTH & BEAUTY By Clinica Britannia

Don’t suffer silently

ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION (ED) is when there is a persistent inability of getting and keeping an erection firm enough for sex, but men should not suffer in silence as treatment is available. But let’s be clear it is not just the men that suffer when suffering with Erectile Dysfunction but their partners also. Surprisingly it is estimated that half of all men over the age of 40, will have at some degree suffered the problem, causing problems in the personal relationships and self-confidence. Now available is a non-invasive Extracorporeal Shock wave Therapy (ESWT), this is a clinically proven method and has

ED: Treatment is available.

been used for treating various medical conditions in the past. Treatment consists of low-intensity sound waves passing through the erectile tissue, helping to restore the natural erectile function by clearing plaque out of blood vessels and encouraging the growth of new blood vessels. The shockwave

treatment offers a cure in that it reverses the problems that cause the dysfunction in the first place - the most desired win-win outcome coveted by men with ED. Making healthy lifestyle choices like taking regular exercise, drinking less alcohol, and stopping smoking can help with ED.

Don’t suffer in silence and put unnecessary strain on your relationship, contact us at Clinica Britannia on 965 837 553 / 965 837 851 for more information.

42 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

Brain-boosting BRAIN HEALTH: Some foods can affect your memory.

chromosome ends, potentially leading to degenerative diseases. Conversely, certain foods are highly recommended for enhancing cognitive functions. • Oily fish: Salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines,

Credit: Ruslan Huzau/Shutterstock.com

IN a recent study, experts at Harvard University pinpointed specific foods that could negatively impact brain function, particularly memory. Harvard’s research highlights five particular foods to limit or avoid: • Added sugars: Excessive consumption may lead to memory deficiencies. • Artificial sweeteners: These can increase harmful stomach bacteria, adversely affecting mood. • Processed oils: High in Omega-6 fatty acids, they cause brain inflammation and damage to blood vessels. • Fried foods: They have been identified as detrimental to memory. • Ultra-processed foods: Excessive intake can shorten

euroweeklynews.com II HEALTH & BEAUTY

rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and DHA, regulate neuronal function and improve information storage in the brain. • Nuts and seeds: Macadamia nuts, almonds, pistachios, and walnuts, known for reducing dementia and Alzheimer’s risks. • Spinach: Loaded with folic acid and vitamin E, it not only reduces tumours and cancer cells but also slows neuronal ageing. • Red fruits: Strawberries, blackberries, currants, and blueberries are rich in flavonoids and fisetin, enhancing memory and various cognitive functions. • Eggs: Containing vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid, help prevent cognitive decline. • Dark chocolate: In moderation, its flavonoids and antioxidants bolster brain health. • Green tea: Known for fat-burning properties, it also enhances brain health. by stimulating concentration and blocking sleep-inducing adenosine.

Luscious lips

ACHIEVING luscious, healthy lips is a combination of good care practices and mindful habits. Firstly, hydration is key; drinking plenty of water ensures your lips remain moisturised from the inside out. Regularly using a hydrating lip balm, especially one with SPF, protects and nourishes the delicate skin of the lips. Exfoliation is also important; gently scrubbing your lips with a sugar scrub once a week removes dead skin cells, revealing smoother lips. Avoid licking your lips as

ATTRACTIVE LIPS: Just in time for Valentine’s Day.

saliva can dry them out. Incorporating vitamins A, C, and E in your diet supports skin health, benefiting your lips too. Lastly, choose lip products wisely - opt for those with hydrating

WAXING is a popular hair removal method that offers several benefits over other techniques like shaving or hair removal creams. Firstly, waxing removes hair from the root, resulting in a smoother finish and a longer period of hairlessness, typically lasting three to six weeks. This method also exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin cells and leaving the area feeling softer and more rejuvenated.

ingredients and avoid those with alcohol or allergens that can cause dryness. These simple, effective steps can help maintain soft, attractive lips yearround.

To wax or not? Over time, regular waxing can lead to finer and sparser hair regrowth, as the hair follicle weakens. Additionally, waxing reduces the risk of cuts and nicks that can occur with shaving, and avoids the harsh chemicals present in some hair removal creams, making it a safer option for sensitive skin.

By Karan Sud Dental

Minimise teeth staining

TEETH staining is a common dental concern that affects individuals of all ages. Many factors contribute to the discolouration of teeth, including the consumption of certain beverages and foods. In this article, we will delve into the effects of drinking coffee, wine, tea, and consuming spices on teeth staining. Furthermore, we will explore effective methods to remove stains and maintain a bright, healthy smile. Coffee, a popular morning beverage enjoyed by millions worldwide, contains tannins that can lead to tooth discolouration. The dark pigments present in coffee penetrate the enamel, resulting in yellow or brown stains on the teeth. However, with proper preventative measures and treatment, coffee stains can be minimised or eliminated. Both red and white wine can contribute to teeth staining due to their acidic nature and chromogens present in grape skins. The combination of acid erosion and pigments can lead to the appearance of dark stains on teeth. Similar to coffee, tea contains tannins that can stain teeth. Additionally, tea has higher levels of chromogens, especially

black tea, which contributes further to discolouration. Spices like curry, turmeric, and saffron possess vibrant colours that can leave stubborn stains on teeth. These stains are often more challenging to remove compared to those caused by beverages. When teeth staining occurs, individuals seek effective methods to regain a bright smile. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available to remove stains and restore teeth to their natural shade. Prevention is key in maintaining a bright smile and minimising future teeth staining. Adopting good oral hygiene practices and making slight adjustments to our lifestyle can greatly contribute to long-lasting dental aesthetics. - Regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash are fundamental in preventing staining - Scheduling routine dental cleanings and check-ups ensures the early detection and removal of stains - Consuming stain-causing substances in moderation and employing preventative measures can significantly reduce teeth staining.

If you would like to book an appointment with our hygienist you can do this online at www.ksuddental.com or call 603 296 687.

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

46 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE

• News Across The Regions • Costa del Sol Chefs for Children

Costa Blanca South Pink Harmony

Axarquia Nordic events

Almeria Make lemonade

Mallorca Giants and Big Heads

Costa Calida Join Mabs

RENOWNED chefs are raising funds for Autism Spain with the most charitable recipe of the Michelin stars. More than 50 Michelin-starred Spanish chefs will take part on April 22 at the Anantara Villa Padierna hotel in an initiative to raise funds for the social group Autism Spain and to disseminate culinary recipes for children so that they eat healthily. The charity day, supported by the Provincial Council through Sabor a Malaga will begin with healthy cooking workshops with the chefs and 150 children from the Benahavis and Autismo España schools, and will culminate with a gala dinner featuring an exclusive tasting menu prepared by the Michelin-starred chefs who work in Malaga Province.

LOS NÓRDICOS Almuñecar is gearing up for yet another exciting excursion on the third Saturday in February to Nigüelas, nestled under the majestic Sierra Nevada rocks. This outing promises a picturesque journey along Acequias, where members can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of almond blossoms. Los Nórdicos Almuñecar fosters a sense of community among its members. From cultural outings to adventurous trips, the group offers a diverse array of activities that cater to various interests. To stay updated on their upcoming events and enjoy the perks of membership, be sure to visit their Facebook page. Embrace the camaraderie and shared experiences that make being part of Los Nórdicos Almuñecar a truly special experience.

ON Saturday January 27, there was a gathering of Giants in Palma with examples arriving from some 14 different municipalities and suburbs of the city. Each group brought with them their own pipers (xeremiers) and the parade started at 10am with each collection of Giants setting off towards the Plaza de Cort. There have been records of Giants in Palma since 1734 but those made to look human first appeared 1904 when Palma Council commissioned ceramicist La Roqueta de Palma to create Tofol and Bet-Maria who made regular appearances in festivals until 1936, when they became unlikely casualties of the Civil War. There is no doubt that the Giants are well respected in Mallorca.

JOIN the celebration at La Zenia Boulevard on February 3 from 12.00 - 16.00 for a fun-filled day of music, art, and solidarity in support of those battling cancer. Starting with a live broadcast by Radio Sunshine, the event will feature performances by several musicians and singers, with timeless classics to contemporary hits. At 3.00pm, a minute of silence will be observed to honour all those who have faced the battle against cancer. Every donation or purchase contributes to raising vital funds in support of the fight against cancer. Don’t miss this special day where music, dance, and solidarity come together to create ‘Pink Harmony’, leaving a positive impact.

STORIES of kindness stand out in the chaos of the world news. Angie Grenter found her dream home in Mojacar 12 years ago. Her latest visit was to celebrate her 65th birthday. Unfortunately, she found herself feeling quite ill, and shared the information on her Facebook page. Angie took a walk to get some fresh air, and when she got back there were the biggest lemons she had ever seen lying on her doorstep, with a note attached saying ‘get well soon, from Christine’. She eventually found out it was someone she had met in 2017. She won’t make lemonade: it will be lemon drizzle cake. A small gesture can make a big difference.

MABS Mazarron, is a non-profit organisation which stands as a beacon of hope for individuals dealing with the challenges of cancer. MABS Mazarron is on a mission to extend its services, and it urgently needs compassionate individuals to join its volunteer force. Even if people can only spare a few hours a week, that contribution can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those diagnosed with cancer in your community. MABS Mazarron is actively seeking volunteers for diverse roles, including drivers, carers, van crews, fundraisers, and shop workers. If you’re ready to lend a helping hand and be part of a cause that truly matters, reach out to them at mazvolunteers@mabscancerfoundation.

FEATURE/NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

1 - 7 February 2024

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THE 2024 Oscar nominations were recently announced with one of Ireland’s finest in the front-running for best actor. On Tuesday, January 23, in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Cillian Murphy was nominated. The announcement was made by Deadpool star Zazie Beetz and Jack Quaid, one of Murphy’s co-stars from the movie Oppenheimer, as the announcers. The former Peaky Blinders star Cillian Murphy, originally from Cork, is vying for the coveted Best Actor award for his stellar performance in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer. This film not only won critical acclaim, but also dominated the box office last summer. Murphy’s portrayal faces tough competition from Paul Giamatti of The Holdovers, a recent Golden Globe winner, as well as Bradley Cooper in Maestro, Colman Domingo of Rustin, and Jeffrey Wright in American Fiction. However, the intense competition in the Best Actor category meant that Andrew Scott - All Of Us Strangers and Barry Keoghan - Saltburn, both miss out, despite their highly-acclaimed performances. Similarly, Paul Mescal was overlooked for his performance in All Of Us Strangers, missing out on a Best Supporting Actor nomination after his previous year’s nod for

Credit: Maximilian Buhn/Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0

OPPENHEIMER: Actor Cillian Murphy.

Aftersun. There’s more good news for Irish cinema. Element Pictures’ Poor Things garnered 11 nominations. Dublin-born Robbie Ryan also earned his second Oscar nomination for Best Cinematography for his work on the Emma Stone-led dark comedy. They all aim to follow in the footsteps of Everything Everywhere All at Once, last year’s winner. The 96th Academy Awards will be hosted for the fourth time by US talk-show host Jimmy Kimmel, and will be broadcast on March 10, promising a night of celebration and suspense for the film industry.

A RECENT shift in European legislation has brought significant changes to private sellers using online platforms. As of January 1, 2024, platforms for buying and selling second-hand items, like Wallapop, Vinted, and eBay, are required to report to the tax authorities if users exceed certain sales thresholds. This regulation will influence the 2025 tax returns, not the 2023 returns filed in 2024. As a result, sales made throughout 2023 will not be considered as capital gains in the upcoming tax declaration. The types of activities that platforms need to report include property leasing, personal services, goods sales, and transportation leasing. Platforms will collect and send details such as bank data, quarterly income, number of sales, and any collected fees or taxes. The new regulations will

Credit: JHVEPhoto/shutterstock.com

Selling second-hand Irish Oscars

EBAY: Now required to report users to the tax authorities.

not impact all users. Only those residing in the European Union, earning more than €2,000 throughout the year, or making 30 or more sales will be subject to this reporting. The requirement to report does not alter how these transactions are taxed. The tax is applicable only if there’s a capital gain, calculated as the difference between the buying and selling price. For instance, if you buy a car for €2,000 and sell

it for €2,800. These profits are taxed within the savings income at rates from 19 to 28 per cent. If no profit is made, no tax is due, but these cannot be declared as capital losses either. This means most users of these platforms are unlikely to owe taxes under the current rules. However, exceeding 30 transactions or earning over €2,000 will require users to provide tax data to the platform.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

A few words about German box clocks from FixingTime

BOX clocks are frequently brought to our workshop. Changing tastes after the FIrst World War, led to the gradual replacement of ornate Vienna Regulators with more modern looking Box Clocks with a minimalist design. They have a simple rectangular wooden case with clean lines, a simple crown, glazed features and are not complicated by carvings and embellishments like earlier clocks. German manufacturers, such as Gustav Becker, The Hamburg American Clock Company and Hermle, were involved in the design and construction of box clocks. They are either a weight-driven or a spring-driven movement. Spring-driven were within the budget of most households, and are often the type we are asked to repair. They require winding to keep accurate time every eight days. The movement is always housed within a wooden case viewable through glazed pa-

nels. It was often a ritual to wind the clock every Sunday. Most box clocks have black spear or spade hands for contrast against a white or silvered dial. A prominent feature is the pendulum, which swings beneath the clock’s dial, visible thorough a glass panel. The pendulum’s length is adjusted to regulate the clock’s timekeeping. Some clocks strike the number of hours and strike once on Most box clocks were produced in Germany, coming in a variety of designs. the half-hour. Others include a chime on the quarters. Usually Westminsnufacturing. Box clocks were ter Chimes, adding a pleasant widely used in homes, offices, sound to mark the passage of schools etc. Today, box clocks time. are sought after by collectors Box clockmakers were reand enthusiasts for their historinowned for their precision cal significance and craftsmansand craftsmanship, making hip. Germany a hub for clock maFixing Time, have restored

many box clocks. Customers remember them in the homes of relatives. They remember the ritual winding before church on Sunday, the striking of the hour, and they remember the clock falling off the wall and so on. Every clock comes with its own story. Some customers want to keep their clock going in memory of loved ones, others feel they owe it to the clock to keep it going. Many things can stop a clock. The spring driving one of the features (either the time, the strike or the chime) can finally break after many years of winding, the holes in the plates of the movement can become misshapen due to wear and the wheels can no longer drive the mechanism.

Whatever the problem FixingTime will be able to get it working again. If you have one of these clocks, which has given up, and if you hold it in high regard get in touch with us. We are three horologists building our business in Spain. Jeff (FBHI) is also Chief Examiner for the British Horological Institute (BHI), and FixingTime is in the BHI’s directory of accredited repairers. Jeff works alongside David and Gail and we are proud of our good reputation. We can help you with antique and modern clocks and mechanical watches, and with modern high end-quality watches. We are grateful to our customers who put their trust in us. If you can’t bring your item to us, we will come to you. Our workshop is open most of the time, so if we can help give us a call, text, or email to arrange an appointment at your place or ours. Quotes are free with no obligation.

euroweeklynews.com • 1 - 7 February 2024

PETS Humane deterrents Pet-sitters cherish your pets at home SPONSORED BY

ultrasonic devices offer a modern approach. These devices emit a high-frequency sound, inaudible to most humans, that cats find unpleasant. Strategically placing these devices can protect specific areas without causing harm to the cats. Water deterrents, such as motion-activated sprinklers, can also be effective. These sprinklers activate when they detect movement, gently spraying water to startle and discourage cats from entering the area. Importantly, while employing these deterrents, it’s crucial to ensure they are safe and non-harmful to cats. Humane deterrence is about gently encouraging cats to choose other areas for their adventures, maintaining a respectful and kind relationship with our feline neighbours.

KEEPING your pets at home when you travel can give you real peace of mind. This is accentuated when you know the sitters are checked and come from HouseSitMatch. What is more, they wont charge you a cent! The pet-sitters come for free! If you’re planning a trip in 2024 join now to find sitters. Earlier is better than later. Whether your trip is short or long, get organised. All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed. Join our pet and house-sitting network. The sitters come for free! Choose Housesitmatch.com for affordable travel, home and pet care. These are the steps to take: 1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com 2. Choose a Standard account (£69 per year) to ensure you can help online when needed 3. Create a profile with photos of your pet and the house 4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and

Most pets just fare better when they stay in their home when you travel.

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

Paw licking WHEN a dog persistently licks its paws, it’s a signal that warrants attention. This behaviour can be attributed to various causes, ranging from physical discomfort to psychological factors. One common reason is allergies. Dogs can develop sensitivities to certain foods, pollen, or household chemicals, leading to itchy skin and paws. In response, they lick their paws to soothe the irritation. Similarly, environmental irritants like road salt or lawn chemicals can also cause discomfort, prompting excessive licking. Another possibility is the presence of parasites, such as ﬂeas or ticks. These pests can cause intense itching and discomfort, leading to persistent licking. Additionally, injuries or foreign objects like thorns or burrs lodged in the paw pads can cause pain, leading to licking as a natural response to soothe the area. Psychological factors, such as anxiety or boredom, can also lead to compulsive behaviours like paw licking.

Protecting your pets THE UK government has recently endorsed an innovative law, set to transform the handling of pet theft in the UK. The Pet Abduction Bill, championed by MP Anna Firth, introduces severe penalties for those convicted of pet theft, including up to five years in prison, a fine, or both. Recent statistics from the Pet Theft Taskforce revealed alarming numbers, approximately 2,000 dog thefts and over 400 cat thefts were reported in 2020. These figures highlight the significant emotional toll on both the owners and their pets, emphasising the need for stringent laws. Given that 28 per cent of UK adults have dogs and 24 per cent own cats, pet theft has become a pressing issue for the public.

Credit: Bachkova Natalia/Shutterstock.com

IN the quest for a harmonious coexistence between our beloved gardens and the local feline population, finding humane ways to deter cats is essential. A key approach is understanding that cats are sensitive to certain smells and textures, which we can use to our advantage. One effective method is using certain plants that emit scents unappealing to cats, like lavender, rosemary, and lemon thyme. Planting these around the garden not only deters cats but also enhances the garden’s aesthetics and aroma. Another option is to use citrus peels; cats dislike the smell of oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. Scattering these peels around flower beds can keep cats at bay. For those seeking a more high-tech solution,

PET THEFT: New law to safeguard our pets.

Environment Secretary Steve Barclay, empathising with pet owners, stated, “As a dog owner myself, I appreciate deeply what treasured members of the family dogs and cats are. It is a deeply traumatic experience for both the owner and the pet when they are stolen. “This vital Bill will recognise the severity of this shocking crime and should act as a dete-

rrent to anyone considering stealing a dog or cat. We will do all we can to support its swift passage through Parliament.” This announcement is a continuation of broader eﬀorts to safeguard pets, including mandatory microchipping for all cats and dogs. This measure aids in reuniting stolen or lost pets with their owners.

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PROPERTY

CLASSIFIEDS II euroweeklynews.com PROPERTY FOR RENT TEULADA apartment. Long let. Three bedrooms. Sea views. 899€ monthly. johnrthtc@gmail.com (304337)

PROPERTY WANTED RETIRED couple looking for long term rental in La Marina Baixa - prefer two beds. Needed urgently - call Janice on 0044 7736 251 800 (279523) I am a big soppy dog and my little owner and I are looking for a forever home to rent with outside space. A Casita in the Campo / Altamera area would be perfect and hope there is someone out there to help us. Please call 696 213 561 after 4pm. (304400)

www.costalessexpress.co.uk Pet transport also arranged in our air conditioned pet/people carriers. Tel: UK (0044) 01256 244657 (302827)

ROLLER SHUTTERS ROLLER SHUTTER REPAIRS, awnings, motors, mosquito blinds. Calpe + 50 kms. 659 464 992 www.toldosalchemy. com (303757) If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

OBITUARIES

SITUATIONS VACANT BLUE SQUARE REAL ESTATE is currently searching for Sales Executives to work in the Denia / Oliva area. A training package is provided and excellent incentives. Multilingual candidates, Spanish, French, Dutch and German are sought after. Please email hr@ blue-square.com your CV (304549)

STRUCTURAL SURVEYS MARK PADDON BSc Hons. MCIOB, CAAT – for buyer’s

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survey & defects advice. Tel: 653 733 066 / 962 807 247 www.costablancasurveyors. com (294251)

WANTED WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel 678 716 693 (288662) BROKEN or unwanted gold jewellery, watches or coins. IMMEDIATE Cash Payment. Call Peter 617 550 016 (303567)

INSURANCE

REMOVALS/STORAGE BENIDORM and surrounding areas. Two-man removal. 622 658 992 (303512) MAN & VAN for hire, cheap & reliable. Jalon Valley & surrounding area. Call/ Whatsapp 636 100 873 COSTA LESS EXPRESS, small removals and deliveries. Spain/UK budget prices. Urgent jobs undertaken

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

54 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II MOTORING HAVE you ever weighed the cost difference between used electric cars and their petrol or diesel counterparts? Recent insights reveal a striking disparity in the second-hand car market. In December, an annual analysis conducted by a Spanish vehicle sellers association disclosed a significant price gap in the pre-owned car sector. This study which focused on vehicles with a single previous owner or those used in leasing

Used car market

with less than 15,000 kilometres, found that used electric cars were priced at an average of €34,818. In stark contrast, the average costs for petrol and diesel vehicles stood at €19,999 and €17,743 respectively. Statistics show that electric vehicles, despite a €2,000 decrease in value over the year,

were almost twice as expensive as their combustion engine equivalents. This disparity underlines the major hurdle in adopting electric vehicle technology. According to Faconauto, electric cars comprised a mere 0.6 per cent of Spain’s vehicle transactions last year. The Moves III Plan, initiated

Who foots the bill?

HAVE you ever wondered who’s liable for repairs if your vehicle is damaged during a Spanish ITV vehicle inspection? In the unfortunate circumstance that a vehicle incurs damage while undergoing the Technical Vehicle Inspection (ITV) - a process mandatory in Spain for ensuring vehicle safety and environmental compliance - the responsibility for repairs depends on specific circumstances. The ITV station’s insurance typically covers damages incurred during the inspection process. In situations where a vehicle sustains damage during the inspection, such as a broken windscreen wiper, window damage, bodywork scratches, or mechanical faults

caused by technician actions, the ITV station’s insurance is obliged to cover the costs. However, if a fault emerges after passing the ITV and exiting the facility, the vehicle owner must prove that the issue resulted from malpractice during the inspection. This requires evidence the vehicle was in pristine condition upon arrival and that the breakdown is directly linked to the inspection. Repair responsibility during an ITV hinges on when and how the damage occurs. ITV stations hold liability for damages caused during inspections, while proving post inspection damage responsibility falls on the vehicle owner.

in June, aimed to bridge this gap by offering up to €7,000 in subsidies for ‘pre-owned’ electric cars, provided they are less than 12 months old and owned by manufacturers or rental companies. Prices for pre-owned electric vehicles vary across Spain. Murcia recorded average prices around €44,000, while La Rioja saw averages drop to €24,000. Madrid, Catalonia, and Andalucia, with the most transactions, posted figures close to the national average, at €31,800, €34,519, and €37,000 respectively. The Renault Zoe led the used electric car market in Spain, despite a 35 per cent drop in sales to 1,099 units. Following closely were the Smart ForTwo, 1,028 sales; and the BMW i3, with 730 cars sold. The Fiat 500 and Tesla Model 3 rounded out the top five, with 658 and 611 sales respectively. Notably, the Megane E-Tech saw a significant increase, from 30 units to nearly 400 by the close of 2023.

MOTORING II euroweeklynews.com

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SEAT Leon FR Sport e-Hybrid - a tempting package

ROAD TEST By Mark Slack

SPANISH car maker SEAT, part of the Volkswagen group, has a longer history than many realise having been formed in 1950. It was created by Spain’s government-owned Instituto Nacional de Industria, Spanish private banks, and Fiat. After 36 years the Spanish government sold SEAT to the Volkswagen Group in 1986. SEAT has another brand in its stable now, Cupra! It appeared in 2018 and was billed as their sporting brand, and SEAT has always portrayed itself as a more sporting alternative since it became part of VW. The Cupra brand has proved very successful but now the downside is that SEAT has revealed they plan to lose the SEAT name off their range and concentrate on Cupra. Although the SEAT name

may well appear on other modes of transport, for now at least the SEAT name is set to disappear from our roads. Which proves a good opportunity to get behind the wheel of the SEAT Leon FR Sport plug in hybrid. Many SEAT models have a Cupra equivalent but the differentiation between the SEAT Leon and the Cupra Leon is the latter being a more sporting take on the former with lower ride height, bolder styling tweaks and a sportier interior. The SEAT Leon is arguably, therefore, a more liveable daily drive as although it does sit low, and has firmed up suspension, the ride is perfectly acceptable even on our worst roads. It still retains a sporty dynamic with nicely weighted steering and feels agile and sure footed enough to prove quick, and entertaining, on twisting cross country

SEAT Leon FR Sport e-Hybrid makes for an entertaining drive.

roads. The range starts from €27,301/£23,335 and en-

compasses four trim levels and four engines including the plug-in hybrid.

Lead-in models have air conditioning, rear parking sensors, keyless start, LED

Facts at a Glance • Price: €44,318/£37,880 • Engine: 1.4-litre petrol with 75kw battery developing 204PS • Transmission: 6-speed DSG Automatic • Performance: Max speed 220kph/137mph O - 100kph/62 mph 7.5 seconds • Economy: 1.17l per 100km/241.7mpg combined - real world driving probably circa 5.65l per 100km/50 mpg depending on driving style and conditions - 64km/40 miles electric only range. • Emissions: 26g/km

lights, CarPlay and Android Auto. The plug-in hybrid in FR Sport trim, with power from a 1.4-litre hybrid petrol engine aided by a 75kw battery. This means you have 40 miles pure electric driving, subject to weather conditions and type of driving, and three modes - pure electric, pure petrol or a combination of the two, where the car decides which is the appropriate power and can include both petrol and electric. In FR Sport mode standard fare includes three-zone-climate, park assist, auto dimming mirror, wireless phone charging, heated front seats and steering wheel, suede upholstery and interior wraparound interior lighting. For those dipping an automotive pedal into EV motoring the Leon e-Hybrid is a tempting package and an entertaining drive.

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TEENAGE dart sensation Luke Littler who hit the headlines recently has been issued with a word of warning from former darts professional Peter Manley. The former world darts number one, Manley, expressed concern about 17-year-old Littler, who has captured the nation’s admiration with stellar performances at the World Darts Championship, Bahrain Masters, and Dutch Masters. Reportedly, Manly commented: ‘Luke Littler, to me, just looks a big unit. If he isn’t careful and doesn’t look after himself, he won’t last long because of that.’ The advice came after Littler’s frequent mentions of his fondness for kebabs, particularly at Alexandra Palace in early January. “Luke Humphries reminds me so, so much of Luke Littler,” Manley, the chairman of the Professional Darts Players Association, stated to a local news source. He drew parallels between Littler and Luke Humphries, another young player who successfully lost four-and-ahalf stone during the coronavirus pandemic. Humphries’ weight loss positively impacted his career, leading him to a World Championship victory. He credits Humphries’ transformation for improving his physical and mental health, overcoming challenges such as anxiety and pressure. He emphasises the endurance needed in the sport, where players often compete from morning to evening, requiring sustained concentration and physical stamina. Manley himself had a wake-up call in his 40s when diagnosed with heart failure, prompting him to alter his lifestyle significantly. Humphries, on his part, has spoken about the difficulty of eating healthily on the darts circuit.

Replacements wanted! John Smith TWO of the biggest football cubs in the world, Barcelona and Liverpool will be looking for new managers at the end of this season. We know that Jurgen Klopp is off to take a sabbatical but at the moment is still under contract to Liverpool until the 2026, so it’s unlikely that his announcement was a subterfuge to head towards Barcelona. As far as Barcelona are concerned, the appointment of Xavi Hernández in 2021 hasn’t turned out to be a success after his first great season as they are currently only in fourth place in La Liga, way off the top spot and are suffering financial fair play difficulties. He opted to go rather than wait to be pushed, but this then leaves something of a poisoned chalice for whoever is recrui-

Credit: FC Barcelona

Littler warning

euroweeklynews.com II SPORT

OPTED TO GO: Xavi announced he was bowing out.

ted to take over. There were rumours that former Barcelona

player and now Arsenal manager, Mike Arteta was a favourite but he quickly

made it clear that he isn’t currently interested in the job so that also leaves Barcelona in a bit of a dilemma. There are a few ‘big names’ such as Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho who have recently been sacked, but if they weren’t good enough for Chelsea and Roma (plus plenty of other major clubs) are they right for Barcelona? Back in the UK Roberto de Zerbi has been achieving great things with Brighton and Hove Albion, but look what happened to former Brighton manager Graham Potter who couldn’t make the grade when stepping up to Chelsea. Maybe the logical way to go is to trawl former Barcelona players who are now managers or look at some of the more successful La Liga managers who understand Spanish football.