Costa del Sol 29 Feb – 6 March 2024 Issue 2017

Monty Don appears on the Costa del Sol.

Photo: Flickr

TWO officers from the Marbella Local Police saved the life of a two-year-old girl who had choked and was unable to breathe.

The incident took place when the unit was patrolling along Avenida Playas del Duque, in Puerto Banus, and saw a car driving with its emergency lights on and, on seeing the police officers, stopped.

From inside the car, a woman came out of the car running with a child in her arms and went to the police asking for help and shouting, “my little girl has choked and is not breathing.”

Her mother told them that she thought she had choked on a pistachio nut and were on their way to the hospital but had stopped to call for help when they saw the police patrol. One of the officers called for an ambulance, while his colleague managed to remove the blockage that was obstructing her breathing.

The little girl, who has Down’s syndrome, began to breathe again, she was taken by ambulance to hospital for examination and later discharged completely recovered.

ESTEPONA Town Council has reported that work is nearing completion on the implementation of a remote management system for public lighting which will reduce electricity consumption by 30 per cent.

The councillor for Services and External Control, Blas Ruzafa, explained that in this first phase of the project, it will be possible to efficiently manage a total of 46 control centres in the town centre, which equates to more than 3,000 points of light.

The councillor explained that, with this pioneering system in the town, the council will be able to improve the energy efficiency of public

Lighting costs cut

lighting by being able to instantly regulate the lighting of the roads according to their activity. In addition, the new IT service will provide automatic warnings in the event of breakdowns or malfunctions, as well as an alarm system

that will automatically warn of attempted theft and sabotage.

Remote management of public lighting will improve response times in the event of a serious anomaly and allow a rapid reaction to circum-

Estepona’s green project

Episode 2 to be aired on Friday March 1, finds the presenter on the Costa del Sol in which he learns about Estepona’s green project, where over 16,000 pots of flowers decorate the streets and lanes of the town.

“In Estepona, it’s about reclaiming the streets,” says Monty. “It’s restoring the former charm and making it a better place to live in - it’s like a huge communal garden.

Over 100 streets have been renovated.” Ronda is also about to star on TV, the town is the setting chosen by the international platform ABC for the filming of the latest season of the reality show ‘The Bachelor’, a TV show that is available in more than 100 countries around the world through digital platforms such as Amazon Prime.

stances that increase energy consumption. All these advantages provided by remote management will result in the town reducing its emissions by more than 60 tonnes thereby also reducing its current carbon footprint.

This reduction in energy consumption will also have a favourable impact on the municipal coffers, as it is estimated that each year there will be savings of more than €45,000 in electricity bills.

New facility

THE extension works of the Health Centre of Los Boliches has started. “In a few months, and with the forthcoming start-up of the Los Pacos Health Centre, we will soon see an improvement in the health care provided to the people of Fuengirola,” said Mayor Ana Mula.

The project will be completed in seven months and will convert a centre that is more than 40 years old into a primary care facility with the capacity and equipment necessary to attend to and respond to the healthcare needs of a growing town.

The aim of these works is to improve both the centre’s facilities and its range of services. To this end, it has been planned to build a two-storey building above ground level, with a consultation wing that will serve as an extension of the current health centre creating 12

At the same time, the new Los Pacos Health Centre, which serves the eastern part of the town, will provide the residents with 26 consultation rooms, six paediatrics, one dentistry, one rehabilitation with physiotherapy, one room for minor surgery, a nursery and an X-ray room, as well as administrative offices and storage rooms. It will also require the recruitment of some 50 professionals.

These are the first new facilities to be created in the last 30 years.

Photo:

from Front page

Public lighting set to have a favourable impact.

Tourist zone

MANILVA has been recognised as a Zone of Great Tourist Influence. With this notification, local businesses will be free to open during the weekends and public holidays in order to cover the number of tourists and local residents who visit the area during these periods.

Half marathon

THE registration period for the ‘Sierra Blanca Estates Half Marathon Marbella 2024’ will open on Friday March 1 and will have an initial discount for local athletes who will be able to register for €10 between March and April. 1,000 runners are expected to sign up.

Scooter rider

AN 18-year-old man is in a very serious condition after being hit by a car in Estepona in the early hours of the morning on Saturday February 17. The driver, who is 43 years old, was drunk at the wheel when her vehicle hit the scooter which was being ridden on the road.

Desalination

WORK has started to increase the capacity of the Marbella desalination plant to 20 hm3, which will increase the amount of drinking water supplied to the population of the Western Costa del Sol. The estimated investment for these works is €4.5 million and will take nine months.

Holiday rentals

MARBELLA Town Hall approved a motion to regulate tourist accommodation in the municipality. Councillor José Ignacio Macías said this, “does not aim to suppress tourist rentals, but to stop their uncontrolled expansion and prevent them damaging residential rentals.”

Kevin Fraser Park

THE magazine ‘Padel Spain’ has declared the Nueva Alcantara club as, “the best club in the world.”

These are the Padel World Awards, an annual award in which 25 experts and almost 360,000 people voted, evaluating dierent clubs all over the world.

Nueva Alcantara club has a total of 16 courts, as well as other services such as a restaurant, beauty salon and gymnastics. All of this has been evaluated in order to achieve this recognition.

Best padel club

The club’s CEO, Miguel Matía, thanked the town hall for its support and expressed his pride at having achieved recognition

Darkness Into Light

IT’S that time of year again to get ready for the Darkness Into Light Charity Walk. The 2024 walk will be on Saturday May 11 starting at 6am and venues along the coast have been confirmed: this year there will be walks in Estepona, La Cala de Mijas and Benalmadena.

Darkness Into Light Costa Del Sol works with Afesol Salud Mental Health charity. Every day stresses can take a toll, especially on those affected by suicide and self-harm. So, this year everyone needs to come together again and walk side by side to say to those in crisis: You are not alone. There is hope. We are here for you.

So please, save the date and help make this the biggest and brightest Darkness Into Light ever. Registration is now open, you can find the link here: https://www.darkness intolight.ie/sign-up

Also, keep an eye out for updates on the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/DarknessintoLightCosta delSol/

The organisers would like to encourage anyone with a t- shirt from previous years to reuse them to save the environment and to allow more much needed funds to go to Afesol.

after passing the evaluations of an expert jury

and the fans themselves.

“After a €9 million investment, we are generating a wealth of nearly €15 million,” said the head of the sports complex. The general manager of the complex, Pedro Cabral, added that the project has created, “more than 200 jobs directly and indirectly.”

The mayor of Marbella, Ángeles Muñoz, said that, “it is a source of pride for the city to have a club of this caliber,” and added, “having the best club in the world shows that the combination of tourism and sport works.”

Easter photo contest

THE Photographic Association of Alhaurin de la Torre has organised the rst Photography Contest for Easter.

This free contest will take place between Friday March 22 and Easter Sunday, March 31. To participate it is necessary to register by lling out the form at: https://rb.gy/6etcc7. Once registered you will receive an email with con rmation and information.

To participate it is simply necessary to be of legal age and resident in Spain. A maximum of three works can be entered. On Easter Sunday, no more entries will be accepted and within two weeks the jury will choose the three winning photographs from among 20 that will be shortlisted. The following prizes will be awarded: rst prize, €300; second prize, €200; third prize €100.

The photographs will be exclusively related to Semana Santa in Alhaurin containing a recognisable Easter element. The works are anonymous and will only have an identifying number to guarantee transparency.

Miguel Nogues, president of the association, thanked the council for their collaboration and encouraged photographers to focus on the best of Semana Santa.

Race against cancer

THE 10th Women Against Cancer Race in the city of Malaga will be held on Sunday March 17 at 10.30am. The race is a distance of 4.3 kilometres starting and nishing at the cruise terminal of the Port of Malaga.

In last year’s edition nearly 4,500 people participated to raise awareness of cancer and raise funds to nance projects and actions for training, awareness and care for patients and families.

The registration fee is €10 and can be paid through the web unidoscontrael cancermlg.es or dorsalchip.es. The bib numbers can be picked up from March 8 to 14 at Primor Stores and each participant will receive a commemorative t-shirt and water, soft drinks and fruit at the nish line.

All funds raised will go to the associations that are part of the Development Partnership United Against Cancer:

Olivares Foundation, Ronald McDonald Children’s Foundation, Association of Children’s Oncology Volunteers (AVOI), Fundación Malagueña de Asistencia a Enfermos de Cáncer (FMAEC), Cesare Scariolo Foundation, Asociación para la Atención a las Mujeres Mastectomizadas u Operadas de Cáncer de Mama (ASAMMA), CUDECA Foundation and the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC).

YOU’RE on holiday, you open a beer, go out onto the terrace and enjoy a cool drink with some crisps. Crunchy and completely addictive.

Spain is a great producer of potato crisps and, speci cally in Malaga, one of the best on the market according to experts in the eld, where they detail that the ve leading potato crisps in Spain as reported in the press, are: Bonilla a la Vista (A Coruña), La Montaña (Madrid), Vallucas (Cantabria), Sarriegui (Guipúzcoa) and Paco José in Malaga.

Potato crisps are, without a doubt, a symbol in Malaga, where there are numerous companies that are dedicated to their production.

Among them, the Paco José freiduría stands out and has been making them for more than 45 years.

PADEL AWARDS: The best club in the world.

Photo: Marbella Town Hall

Triple discrimination Torremolinos transformation

Kevin Fraser Park

SPAIN’S political party, Partido Popular (PP) has proposed suspending the AP-7 toll until there is a train on the coast as far as Estepona.

They say that triple discrimination is suffered by residents and visitors to the municipalities of the Costa del Sol, who are penalised with no train and whose only option is to use the road, they are also forced to pay tolls on many occasions due to traffic congestion along the coast of Malaga, and because they are also excluded from the free

tickets for the Cercanías local trains in the areas it serves.

In response to the statements made by the Junta Vice-President, María Jesús Montero, in which she rejected the removal of the AP-7 toll, José Ramón Carmona, secretary

+34 951 38 61 61 euroweeklynews.com

general of the PP in Malaga, said that there are reasons that fully justify the temporary suspension of the toll on the AP-7, which is why he has asked her to explain the reasons she gives for refusing to do so.

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The AP-7 toll is the the most expensive in Spain and, “while Catalonia is given €6,000 million for its Cercanías network and Galicia is given a 75 per cent toll rebate, Malaga is denied the Costa del Sol train, when it is essential for the connectivity and mobility of this area, one of the fastest growing in the next decade in Spain,” said Carmona.Sol”.

THIS is how Torremolinos wants to transform its La Nogalera Plaza: it will be filled with pergolas and fountains.

Torremolinos Town Hall is taking a decisive step in its commitment to transform and improve one of its most iconic spaces: La Nogalera Plaza and is inviting tenders for the regeneration of this urban space for just over €3.2 million.

The plaza, a central point for a large part of the civic activities which take place in the Costa del

Sol town, is going to undergo a major regeneration project. The project, which has been planned to be carried out in different phases, has been agreed with the business owners and traders of La Nogalera and surrounding streets, so that the works do not impede the social and cultural life of this part of the town centre. Work is projected to start in the second quarter of 2024 with the aim of concluding in the middle of 2025.

It is intended to create

new open spaces with 34 canopies that will function as pergolas to provide shade and, a large central pergola some 500 square metres in size, which will also help lower the temperature of the space.

The project, which has already started to take shape, seeks to provide this emblematic area of the town with a makeover that will allow it to adapt to the large number of events that take place there and turn it into a meeting place for locals and visitors alike.

AP-7 TOLL ROAD: The most expensive in Spain.

Photo: Flickr CC / ricfer

LA NOGALERA PLAZA: Will be transformed with pergolas and fountains.

Photo: Torremolinos Town Hall

SO far this year, the Local Police of Torremolinos have issued a total of 260 fines to pet owners for not cleaning up urination and faeces after their pets.

Torremolinos Council has highlighted the need for greater involvement

Pet owners fined

by all people who have pets to take responsibility for them and keep the streets of the town clean. Dog urine is corrosive and damages street furniture,

Better healthcare Spare a copper

CUDECA are asking, please could everyone save those smaller copper coins between now and the end of April?

Literally every penny (or cent) counts: small change, those little coins lying at the back of the sofa, in a pocket or a drawer, it can all be used to make a huge difference to cancer charity, Cudeca.

Have a rummage and collect up the ‘shrapnel’ of 1, 2 and 5 cent coins (plus any 10 cent coins even though they’re not copper!), bring them to one of the collection points in each of the venues that have kindly agreed to help where there will be a Cudeca collection tin: Caribbean Mermaid in Fuengirola; Clarky’s Cafe in Torreblanca and The Lemon Tree in Mijas Pueblo.

buildings and vehicles, so when dogs are taken out for a walk, owners should take a bottle with soapy water and a little vinegar or bleach to clean their urine, to eliminate smells and damage.

An awareness campaign also reminds owners that the Local Police will impose sanctions on those who fail to comply with the Ordinance for the Protection and Keeping of Animals, article 11 which states that, “people who walk dogs and other animals must prevent them from leaving their faeces and urine in any place intended for pedestrians” and that “whenever droppings are left in any space, whether public or private, the person with the animal is obliged to clean it up immediately.”

It’s also worth remembering that fines of between €75 and €500 can be issued as a deterrent to this type of uncivic behaviour.

Kevin Fraser Park

WORK is progressing on the extension and refurbishment of the La Carihuela health centre, which will be completely renovated and have 40 consultation rooms.

Patricia Navarro from the Junta de Andalucía along with the mayor of Torremolinos, Margarita del Cid, visited the site to report on the work being carried out, which has an investment of €1.4 million.

The works began in November 2023 and are expected to end in July,

culminating in a new health centre, “that will expand its capacity, improving the service to citizens and the working conditions of professionals,” said the mayor, while Navarro added that this, “responds to the model of public, free, universal and quality healthcare that we promote in our community.”

Del Cid also said that, “Torremolinos is a tourist town that triples its population at various times of the year and this means that our health system has to adapt.”

SITE VISIT: Work is progressing on the refurbishment in La Carihuela.

Photo: Flickr CC / Marco Verch

Photo: Torremolinos Town Hall

Chips add up

Kevin Fraser Park Marbella has accumulated the highest collection of ‘Orphan Chips’ in its 45 years of charity donation. ‘Orphan chips’ are the gambling chips that customers leave behind, forget or lose in the casino and never claim.

The remarkable sum of €12,308 raised in 2023 and marks a significant milestone in the history of the Casino highlighting the importance and effectiveness of this valuable initiative.

The cheque was handed over to the Marbella councillor, Isabel Cintado, who said, “The ‘Orphan Chips’ represent much more than just forgotten gaming chips; they are a tangible symbol of social commitment. With the delivery of the money

raised to Marbella Town Hall, projects that directly address the needs of the most vulnerable citizens will receive much needed funds,” she added. Casino Marbella takes its responsibility towards social and human develo -

Bike donated

TWO young brothers have given their bike to a delivery rider in Marbella so he can continue working after his was stolen. The young man reported on social networks that his bicycle had been stolen, so he could not continue his delivery job.

Jeison is a 22-year-old young man who arrived from Venezuela almost two years ago and lives in Marbella. When he arrived in Spain, he bought a bicycle and started using

it to work as a delivery boy but, when his bicycle was stolen while he was picking up an order, he not only lost his bike, but also his job because he couldn’t continue to work. So, he posted a message on social media to try to get it back.

The mother of brothers aged eight and 11, saw the post on Marbella Se Queja and said aloud, “they’ve taken away how he earns his living,” to which her youngest son replied, “Give him mine, mummy.”

eBoats make waves

MARK your calendars, Banus eBoat Show by Galaxia is set to make waves in Puerto Banus from April 12-14 with a gathering of the best electric and hybrid boats in Europe.

Spain’s premier Electric Boat Show brings international clean tech players presenting the latest innovations in eBoating in glamorous Marbella for a very special celebration.

Galaxia is at the fore-

front of the electric and sustainable revolution showcasing the most disruptive concepts and cutting-edge technology in environmentally conscious boating.

Galaxia aims to create awareness and inspiration within and around the eMarine industry unveiling the latest innovations in digitalisation, electrification and care of the marine environment.

pment very seriously and works in collaboration with local organisations in order to contribute to the progress and well-being of those most in need.

To date, Casino Marbella has donated more than €260,000 to the mayor’s office.

Sarah wins again

THE Junta has awarded the Andalucian Medal for Sport 2024 to the Marbella parasurfer Sarah Almagro as a shining example of self-improvement.

The Junta de Andalucia has announced the awarding of the Andalucian medals in nine different categories. The awards were presented on February 28 in Sevilla, coinciding with the celebration of Andalucia Day.

Sarah Almagro achieved an excellent hat-trick in 2023 as Spanish, European and World Champion in Adaptive Surfing.

After winning silver and bronze in the previous two years, in November 2023 she finally became the best in the world and won a well-deserved title in the Prone 2 category at the ISA World Parasurfing Championships held in Huntington Beach, California.

With the addition to these four awards and the Marbella-born Sarah Almagro, the local and provincial flag is flying high.

CHARITY DONATION: Marks a significant milestone.

Photo: Marbella Town Hall

New routes

RYANAIR reaffirms its commitment to Malaga with an announcement that it will reinforce its flights at Malaga airport and will connect the capital of the Costa del Sol with 89 destinations in the summer season with routes which have increased capacity by 19 per cent to more than 5.3 million passengers.

The Irish airline’s schedule now includes five new routes to Bari (Italy), Bucharest (Romania), Lodz (Poland), Ostrava and Prague (Czech Republic).

The company will also expand its base at Malaga airport with three new aircraft, bringing its total to 16 Boeing 737s, and will create 90 new jobs for pilots and ca-

ESTEPONA Council is extending the inclusive play area on the promenade with an accessible swing for older children who use wheelchairs.

The councillor for Services and External Control, Blas Ruzafa, announced that the children’s playground on the seafront promenade will see its inclusive play area extended much to the delight of Verónica Romero, the mother of Mario, a child with cerebral palsy who due to his age, situation and physical build can no longer use the existing ones in the park.

The councillor explained that the Este-

bin crew, according to a statement. In total, it claims to maintain more than 4,400 local jobs, of which 480 are pilots, cabin crew and engineers at Ryanair.

The head of Ryanair in Spain, Elena Cabrera, said that this is the biggest summer schedule for Malaga, offering Malaga residents and visitors more options for weekend city breaks and holidays.

She added that the company’s investment of almost €1,500 million demonstrates Ryanair’s commitment to tourism growth and connectivity in Malaga. To celebrate the launch of the new schedule, the company has launched a special offer with fares starting from €21.99 on its website.

Access to play

pona Town Hall, following a meeting between the mayor and the mother of this child, began last May to coordinate the assembly and installation of the new playground equipment, which has an investment of around €20,000.

Due to the dimensions of the new play equipment, which allows older and disabled children to use with their wheelchairs, the council must readapt an area of the park and, in the coming weeks the new equipment will be installed.

A melting pot

Kevin Fraser Park TORREMOLINOS has exceeded 70,000 registered inhabitants for the first time in its history, according to the latest official data provided by the National Institute of Statistics (INE), which shows the population of the city in 2023.

Torremolinos has been progressively gaining population since the records of the National Institute of Statistics began.

In 1842, the first year, INE counted 785 people in the town, a figure that has been increasing and in the last decade has remained close to 70,000 inhabitants but without ever breaking this barrier.

The multiculturalism and diversity of Torremolinos is reflected in its municipal census, which today includes 125 nationalities, a melting pot of cultures that shows the cosmopolitanism of the municipality.

By nationalities, the Moroccan population is the most present in the town with 1,757 people, closely followed by Italians with 1,625. In third place are citizens from the United Kingdom, with 1,300 inhabitants.

The Colombian community is also very numerous with 1,024 citizens. Ukrai-

nians (985), Chinese (894) and citizens from the Netherlands (705) are also present in Torremolinos.

The diversity of the population of Torremolinos is reflected in the presence of citizens from countries as diverse as Togo, Cape Verde, Namibia, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Congo.

TORREMOLINOS: Steadily gaining population.

Photo: Wikimedia CC

Xerogarden

FUENGIROLA Town

Hall is beautifying more than 100 planters in the town with ecological materials that will reduce by 75 per cent the water needed for irrigation in these public spaces.

“We are facing a major drought. The Junta de Andalucia has already approved several drought decrees which mean that the municipalities are obliged to take measures in all the areas we can and from the Urban Ecology Department we are developing actions aimed at reducing water consumption,” explained the councillor for Urban Ecology, José Sánchez.

The councillor explained that, “the planters are being renovated under the concept of ‘xerogardening’, which is a technique that reduces water consumption and maintenance, and which guarantees a better state of the soil for the conservation of the plants.”

The term ‘Xerogardening’, comes from the Greek term ‘xero’ meaning dry and Xerogardening arose as a necessity in Australia to solve problems of severe drought.

Funeral planning

Brian Bamford

IT’S not a subject that any of us want to think about but it’s something that we will all need. If we don’t make our own arrangements, it will be left to our loved ones to cope on their own.

Whilst dealing with grief, you don’t need to be second guessing what your loved one would have liked.

That is why Age Concern Marbella - San Pedro has asked an expert to give a talk on Friday March 1 at 11am at the San Pedro Social centre and explain the options that are available and how things work in Spain.

Ruth Forder will be talking about wills and funeral arrangements. Ruth has been explaining about the Spanish funeral process and how it differs from your home country for 13 years.

She can help you navigate through the minefield of different insurances and funeral plans, which are available. She can also check that what you have in place is current, whilst also making sure there are enough funds to pay for the funeral.

The space in the Social Centre is limited, so please register for this informative talk on: cen tre@ageconcernmarbella. com so they can get a good idea of how many people will attend.

Los Motos Locos

FUENGIROLA buzzed with excitement as the Los Motos Locos scooter club, a group of 15 scooter enthusiasts geared up for their adventure. On the crisp morning of Monday February 19, they revved up their classic Lambrettas and Vespas and set off on an epic journey to the Canaries. The combined age of these recycled teenagers reached an impressive 850 years, a testament to their enduring passion for the open road.

As the convoy of scooters rumbled through the streets, they carried not only riders but decades of shared memories and a camaraderie that has blossomed since the formation of Los Motos Locos in 2007. The air was filled with the distinctive hum of two-stroke engines and the laughter of friends who had weathered the passage of time together.

THE Costa del Sol stands out as one of the leading destinations for Active Tourism at a national level according to a Travellyze report.

The information comes from biannual surveys of more than 20,000 travellers. Esperanza González, CEO of Turismo Costa del Sol, has positively noted the results of the report: “They clearly reflect the strong po-

Their journey across the azure waters towards Lanzarote and Fuerteventura promised breathtaking landscapes and new horizons. The group, fuelled by the spirit of adventure and a love for scooters that had only deepened with age, embraced the wind

Active tourism

sitioning of the Costa del Sol as an attractive destination for active tourism. Our region has managed to stand out in comparison with national and international competitors.”

The term ‘Active Traveller’ refers to those individuals who seek tourism experiences that involve physical

in their hair and the freedom of the open road.

As they roll into the Canaries, their scooters adorned with travel-worn stickers, the Los Motos Locos will not only conquer miles but will create an unforgettable chapter in the story of their lives.

activity, adventure and active participation during their trip. According to Travellyze surveys in 2023, there is an equal distribution between men and women, with diversity in age.

“The high approval rating among those who have already visited the Costa del Sol is a testament to the positive experience of the active traveller in our region,” said González.

WILLS AND FUNERALS: Make sure that you are fully covered.

Photo: Shutterstock / Yuri A

SCOOTER CLUB: Set off on an adventure.

Photo: Facebook / Los Motos Locos

The first Urban Art Gallery

John Smith

SOME 25 years ago, the village of Fanzara high in the mountains in the interior of Castellon Province in eastern Spain, was in danger of becoming a ghost town.

There were plans for the installation of a toxic waste incinerator and whilst villagers demonstrated against it, their children played at demonstrating as well.

In the end, it wasn’t constructed but this didn’t help the villagers actually nd work or sustain their families.

Two locals Javier López and Rafa Gascó thought that Fanzara could become a thriving community if they could come up with a new idea which would encourage visitors to spend some time and some money there.

Their simple idea, which has now been copied and expanded upon by many towns throughout Spain was to invite gra ti artists to visit the village and paint really attractive designs on the walls of di erent houses, turning the village into an urban art gallery.

Sounds simple but in those days, urban art was seen as potentially mindless vandalism but eventually

the pair persuaded some of the elderly residents to allow the walls of their properties to become ‘blank canvasses’.

Next step was to nd artists prepared to visit the village and create some work, but it escalated beyond all expectation.

In fact 23 artists, mainly Spanish, answered the call and in that rst year, no less than 44 murals had been created in what was then dubbed the MIAU, or Museo Inacabado de Arte Urbano (Un nished Museum of Urban Art).

At the time, the Fanzara Council contributed €2,000 to help the costs

and the artists raised funds themselves online and by selling merchandise. Each year, since then, there has been a festival inviting new artists from around the world to add to the artwork in the village, although there was something of a hiatus in 2023 when there was a change in the make-up of the council with the Partido Popular taking control and allegedly imposing certain restrictions on what wording could appear accompanying the artwork.

Despite this, the village of Fanzara is arguably the rst and most complete example of concentrated Urban Art in Spain.

Most visited

WHILE the Colosseum, Eiffel Tower, and Disneyland Paris are undoubtedly famous spots, Europe’s most visited attraction is the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.

With nearly 14 million visitors yearly, the cathedral remains a magnet for tourists, even following the tragic fire of 2019, as people contribute to its ongoing restoration.

Located on the Île de la Cité in the heart of the Seine, Notre Dame’s construction began in 1163 under King Louis VII and was finished in 1345. Its stunning medieval Gothic architecture showcases the skill and creativity of its builders.

Flying buttresses were a key part of Notre Dame’s design, added to support its slender, towering Gothic walls and prevent structural issues.

These features not only strengthen the cathedral but also enhance its distinctive Gothic look.

Despite facing neglect and damage, notably during the French Revolution in the 1790s, Notre Dame gained widespread attention thanks to Victor Hugo’s novel ‘Notre Dame of Paris’, also known as ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’.

Hugo’s work highlighted the cathedral’s deteriorated state, leading to extensive renovations from 1844 to 1864 by architects Jean-Baptiste-Antoine Lassus and Eugène-Emmanuel Viollet-le-Duc.

They focused on restoring the spire and flying buttresses, preserving Notre Dame’s beauty for future generations.

Credit: MIAU Fanzara Facebook

Just one of the numerous urban murals in Fanzara.

Paris gets ready

THE Paris booksellers whose distinctive dark green stalls line three kilometres of the Seine will not have to move during the Olympics.

When the 2024 Games begin on July 26 with all national teams sailing down the Seine on a fleet of 100 boats, this will be the first time that an opening ceremony is held outside the main stadium.

During the early planning stages for the event, police ordered that 600 of

Mystery picture

Linda Hall

A POSSIBLE Van Gogh self-portrait has come to light in Ghent in Belgium.

Hannes and Lore discovered the painting during extensions to their home, Lore explained to the VRT broadcaster.

As the family had outgrown the house the couple bought in 2008, they recently purchased the neighbouring property which they are currently converting into a single home.

They immediately recognised the Dutch artist Vincent Van Gogh in a picture painted directly onto plaster which until then had been covered with insulation.

The previous owner is no longer alive but her son has told VRT that the picture must have been there before 1993 when she went there to live.

Their first thought was

the 900 stalls needed to be removed amid concerns they would be ideal for concealing explosive devices.

The (booksellers) immediately complained, comparing the absence of their stalls to ‘a tooth extraction’, while announcing that they intended to take legal action to prevent their removal.

After negotiations failed to find a ‘consensual and reassuring solution’, France’s president Em-

manuel Macron had to intervene, asking the Interior Ministry and police to ensure that none of the bookstalls would be forced to move.

The spire should be entirely visible in time for the Olympics, the Etablissement Public, which is attached to the Ministry of Culture confirmed.

“Dismantling the scaffolding has started and will continue over the coming months,” a spokesperson told the AFP news agency.

to contact the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam but after failing to receive a reply, they contacted a local art expert, Lore told VRT.

An initial examination was inconclusive, although the age of the plasterwork suggested the painting was old. On the other hand, although the style was ‘awkward’, that did not rule out the possibility that it was Van Gogh’s work, the expert explained, as the artist often made rough preliminary studies for the pictures he painted later.

Could Van Gogh have painted it?

The dates add up, as the district where Hannes and Lore live was built between 1875 and 1890, while Van Gogh’s letters reveal that he passed through Ghent in 1885 after leaving Paris for a three-day journey to the Netherlands.

Jannes and Lore also have a theory that Van Gogh could have painted the picture to pay for his stay in the house which, rather than a lodging house, was possibly a brothel, Lore believes.

Meanwhile, Ghent University is interested in analysing the painting, as the pigments used could help to date it.

HIDDEN TREASURE: Could this be a Van Gogh selfportrait?

Photo credit: VRT News/Ward Schouppe

SEINE BOOKSELLERS: Will not be forced to move during the Olympic Games.

Photo credit: CC/Ninara

Internet training for rural residents

SPAIN grants €21 million to internet training of rural residents across the country.

The Spanish government is allocating millions in subsidies to integrate the technology into the lives of farmers and other residents of rural towns.

The Reto Rural Digital has organised a technology training programme, aimed at residents of small towns with a popu-

lation of less than 5.000 people.

The training includes a minimum of 7.5 hours of training and digital consulting, in which farmers are taught basic skills in navigation, information discovery, data management and digital content tracking.

The digitisation of neglected rural regions of Spain has been a key priority in the government’s management of depopu-

lation.

The top three aims of the Spanish National Digital Agenda include the policies of broadening the infrastructure, public services and rural digital innovation skills.

In 2019, a similar and effective campaign was carried out, providing support of €5-6 million to boost the digital transformation of rural areas, including technical training for the residents.

Pollution regulations

NORWAY is set to revolutionise its coastal aquaculture industry with the introduction of stringent pollution regulations and minimum permit requirements.

The country’s Minister for Fisheries and Oceans, Cecilie Myrseth, and Minister for Climate and Environment, Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, jointly announced a shift in aquaculture operations.

The key change involves replacing individual permits with standardised environmental requirements, creating uniformity for all open fish farming facilities in the sea.

Myrseth emphasised the positive impact, stating, “With these changes, pollution regulations become more predictable, streamlining authorities’ application processing while ensuring environmental protection.”

The new regulations aim to enhance environmental monitoring, enabling authorities to closely track emissions and respond

effectively to environmental conditions.

To make sure everyone follows these new rules, the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries, the Norwegian Food Safety Authority, and a government representative will work together to keep

an eye on things and make sure companies are doing what they’re supposed to. This big change is Norway’s way of showing how much they care about taking care of the environment while still letting the fish farming industry grow.

Night ban on alcohol

AFTER six months of restricting alcohol sales at night in shops and supermarkets in Krakow, city authorities and police have noted tangible results in figures released in February 2024.

In July 2023 a resolution by Krakow City Council came into effect, which placed restrictions on the hours of night-time retail alcohol sales.

The ban is in effect between midnight and 5.30am, throughout Krakow, with the exception of restaurants and bars.

There has been a very significant decrease in police interventions during the hours the resolution on restricting sales was in effect: in total, the months of July-December 2023 saw a decrease of almost 50 per cent of alcohol related offences compared to the same period in 2022.

There was also a significant decrease in offences committed throughout the day in Krakow when alcohol was still readily available.

IT training classes.

Linda Hall

A ROME Appeals Tribunal has overturned a 2019 law obliging local authorities to use only the terms ‘mother’ and ‘father’ when registering a child’s birth.

Until then, some town and city halls were making it easier for same-sex couples to register births by using the gender-neutral ‘Parent One’ and ‘Parent Two’.

This came to an end when the current deputy PM and Transport minister Matteo Salvini headed the Interior Ministry and brought in a 2019 decree re quiring the authorities to revert to the traditional words.

Limiting the terms used on ID cards to ‘pa rent’ was an example of “political correctness going too far,” he maintai ned.

So, too, did the now-PM Giorgia Meloni who con demned the ‘Pa rent One, Parent Two’ formula when still in opposition “I am a woman. I am a mother. I am Italian, I am

Gender-neutral victory Fake medicine

Christian,” she declared. “You will not take that away from me!”

Meloni is also on record as saying that a child “deserves only the best: a mother and a father.”

Italy’s LGTBQ+ community accused Giorgia Meloni’s right-wing government of ‘trampling’ on the parental rights of same-sex couples, although in any case these hardly compared with those of most other European countries.

EUROPOL has revealed that in a sweeping crackdown carried out in 2023, a coalition of law enforcement, customs, and health agencies from 30 countries joined forces in the fight against the trafficking of counterfeit and misused medicines.

Dubbed Operation SHIELD, the initiative was spearheaded by a steering group from France, Greece, Italy and Spain, with the Guardia Civil playing a crucial role. The operation’s efforts were bolstered by several European institutions, including the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), and resulted in significant seizures valued at over €64 million.

Spain’s involvement through the Guardia Civil underscored the operation’s comprehensive approach, targeting not only the trafficking networks but also the online platforms facilitating these illegal sales.

The trafficking of pharmaceuticals has emerged as a lucrative venture for

One same-sex couple appealed against the Salvini decree, insisting that their child’s identity card should show them as legal parents while giving an accurate indi-

An initial lower-court hearing found in their favour and that decision was upheld the Rome Appeals Court on Fe-

The Appeals Court verdict was ‘wrong’, Salvini insisted the next day. “It is absurd and reprehensible to cancel the words ‘mum’ and ‘dad’,” the Ansa news agency reported him as

organised crime, posing significant risks to public health and burdening healthcare systems across the EU. The operation uncovered a disturbing pattern of large-scale trafficking, with the sale of counterfeit medicines leading to severe health consequences.

The crackdown led to 1,284 individuals being charged, with 296 arrests and 988 prosecutions underway. Authorities dismantled four underground labs, shut down 92 websites, and carried out

thousands of inspections and anti-doping controls. These efforts underscore the scale of the problem and the determination of the authorities to combat it.

Operation SHIELD

IV marks a significant step forward in the fight against the trafficking of counterfeit and misused medicines. With the collaboration of international agencies, the operation highlights the ongoing battle to safeguard public health and integrity in the pharmaceutical sector.

Photo credit: Flickr/European Parliament MATTEO SALVINI: Appeals Court overrode his 2019 birth registry decree.

Credit: europol.europa.eu

Illegal medicines seized.

Historic bracelets returned

John Smith

AFTER considerable investigation, the premier of the Flanders region of Belgium, Jan Jambon was able to return three antique gold bracelets to a Romanian delegation.

The presentation at the Antwerp Museum on February 19 was the culmination of months of investigation by archaeologists and a police team following the discovery of two supposed Belgian gold bracelets entered into an auction in Monaco and said to date back to 1,000 BC.

If this was true, then they would have been an important find for the history of Flanders but experts considered that the explanation by the owner that they had been found after dredging a moat around a property in Flanders unconvincing.

Nothing of this type has ever been found in Belgium and the style was typical of the type of bra-

celets found in the Eastern Carpathians.

The bracelets were immediately classified as of historical importance which meant that they were withdrawn from the auction where they had an estimated value of €80,000 to €100,000 and the ‘owner’ was interviewed.

It then emerged that

he had obtained three rather than two bracelets in Romania from an illegal excavation and they had been exported without a licence which then allowed the authorities to confiscate them and return these important examples of Romanian heritage back to the country that they had been removed from.

Seals feel at home

DEN HELDER is the home of Holland’s naval base, the Royal Naval College and the Admiralty Building.

Its canal is also home to two seals who are in trouble because they are feasting on the fish, a local fishing club complained.

Five years back, a pregnant seal entered Den Helder’s inland water network through one of the locks and after giving birth to a pup neither mother nor offspring has shown any interest in leaving.

Hans Koopman from the HSV Angling Club, which organises annual competitions, explained to local broadcaster NH that members spend €4,000 each year on stocking the canal with fish, which the seals demolish at the rate of four kilos a day.

Irritatingly, they often decide not to eat the entire fish but merely take a bite out of it, before moving on to the next one.

“Fish stocks are completely destroyed,”

Koopman said. “Just move the seals out to sea.”

The association has asked on several occasions to have the seals removed, but the Pieterburen seal sanctuary, which is both a rehabilitation and research centre, can only do so if the request comes through a local authority, a spokesperson said.

The sanctuary also explained that it was not unusual for these marine mammals to swim in canals.

“Seals often swim in inland waters. So long as they look healthy, there is no reason to move them.”

As responsibility lies with the municipality in question, the Pieterburen shelter steps in only when animals are in need of assistance.

Moving a seal is not easy. “Seals cannot be lured,” a spokesperson told a local newspaper.

QUITE COMFORTABLE: The seals are at home in Den Helder canal.

Return of the three bracelets.

Credit: Jan Jambon Facebook

Photo credit: Flickr/Ian Carvell

Fast delivery

A MCDONALD’S restaurant in Dublin became the unlikely location for an unexpected delivery of its own, as a mother had her baby in the car park.

In what may seem like a scene from a movie, how often does a fast-food parking lot become a delivery room? This became reality for a Dublin mother on Wednesday, February 21, after she gave birth in a McDonald’s car park in

Tallaght, just southwest of Dublin City.

Dublin Fire Brigade received an urgent call to the McDonald’s location, stepping in to support a sudden childbirth.

The event unfolded rapidly, yet both mother and the newborn emerged from the situation healthy and in good spirits, marking a truly unexpected series of events.

The situation was in-

deed urgent, with the statement revealing, ‘A baby girl was in an Uber hurry and couldn’t wait for hospital. The crew assisted the new Mammy with the delivery and all are doing well.’ The community on social media quickly caught on to the humour, engaging with light-hearted comments. One user named Bi quipped, ‘Surely she has to name him Ronald?’

Colossal fine

THE European Union is expected to impose a ne of over half a billion euros on Apple, marking a signi cant milestone in the tech industry’s legal landscape.

This landmark penalty, estimated at around €500 million, is expected to be unveiled in early March.

It concludes an extensive antitrust investigation by the European Commission, initiated by Spotify’s complaint in 2019, concerning Apple’s music streaming service operations within the EU.

The crux of the investigation revolves around Apple’s alleged preferential treatment of its services on its platform, potentially side-lining competitors.

According to the Financial Times, the probe looked into whether Apple restricted apps from notifying iPhone users about more economical alternatives for music subscriptions outside the App Store.

Insiders expect the Commission to declare Apple’s behaviour as unlawful and violate the bloc’s regulations that promote competition within the single market.

Furthermore, the EU plans to prohibit Apple’s practice of hindering music services from directing users to less expensive options outside its App Store, accusing Apple of leveraging its dominant position

to impose anti-competitive trading practices on rivals.

This ne represents one of the most substantial nancial penalties imposed by the EU on a major technology rm. It comes in the wake of a series of penalties against Google totalling approximately €8 billion, which are currently under legal challenge.

Previously, Apple had not faced antitrust nes from Brussels, though it was ned €1.1 billion in France in 2020 for similar accusations, which was appealed and later reduced to €372 million.

The EU’s stern action signals a renewed con ict between Brussels and major tech companies, underlining the importance of compliance with the Digital Markets Act, aimed at fostering competition and enabling smaller tech entities to ourish.

Dublin Fire Brigade to the rescue.

Credit: DubFireBrigade/X

APPLE: Expected to receive a fine.

Credit: TonyV3112/Shutterstock.com

Airlines issue ultimatum

IN a recent clash over Dublin Airport’s future, global airlines have issued stark warnings that they will take their business elsewhere.

This dispute unfolded as the powerful US-based Airlines for America (A4A) and other major carriers demanded an urgent increase in Dublin Airport’s passenger capacity.

Their ultimatum: approve expansion plans or face a business exodus from Ireland, potentially taking major multinationals with them.

The contentious issue came to a head as planners at Fingal County Council received submissions urging them to permit an increase from 32 million to 40 million passengers annually.

The cap on passenger numbers must be lifted ‘if Ireland is to sustain and grow current levels of US tourism and foreign direct investment,’ A4A stated.

Highlighting the gravity, A4A reminded that three US giants - Apple, Microsoft, and Google - contribute sig-

ni cantly to Ireland’s economy.

Their stance is clear: failing to meet US-Ireland travel demands could severely impact Ireland’s economic prosperity. A4A’s roster boasts heavyweights like American Airlines, United, and Delta, emphasising the broad industry consensus on the need for expansion.

British Airways and its parent company IAG, which also owns Aer Lingus and other airlines, reinforced the urgency. ‘IAG cannot stress enough the urgency for Fingal County Council to make a decision to increase the passenger cap,’ they warned.

Aer Lingus, Vueling, Emirates, and other airlines underscored the importance of lifting the cap for maintaining and growing international routes.

However, the expansion proposal has met with resistance. Residents living under ight paths and environmental advocates argue against the increase, citing noise pollution and climate impact concerns.

Blow against cybercrime

AN announcement on Tuesday February 20 revealed how an international investigation has disrupted the world’s most harmful cybercrime group.

The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) has declared a significant victory against LockBit, labelled as the most destructive cybercrime syndicate in the world.

The NCA, in a covert operation, infiltrated and commandeered LockBit’s operations. This strategic move has neutralised their cybercriminal network entirely. LockBit, known for its ransomware attacks over the past four years, has victimised thousands internationally, inflicting financial damages in the billions of pounds, dollars, and euros.

This disruption targeted LockBit’s ransomware services, a scheme offering malicious tools for global hackers. When LockBit infected a system, it encrypted data and demanded ransom in cryptocurrency, threatening to leak the information online. The NCA’s seizure of LockBit’s administrative environment and leak

site marks a significant blow to their operations.

The NCA now plans to use the seized dark website to expose LockBit’s operations. They’ve also gained access to the group’s source code and detailed intelligence on their activities. This operation, na-

med Operation Cronos, involved close collaboration with the FBI and international partners from nine other countries.

In a coordinated effort with Europol, arrests were made in Poland and Ukraine, with over 200 cryptocurrency accounts frozen.

Credit: Peter Krocka/Shutterstock.com

Dublin Airport under pressure.

Glass houses

THEY are called ‘starlight rooms’, 5-star rooms made of glass and wood, set above an altitude of 1,600 metres in the Dolomites.

The rooms consist of cubes made of fir and larch wood whose walls and especially the ceiling are completely made of glass so you can literally sleep under the stars. The price per night is €700.

But they are struggling to get approval in the regional council. Since February 2023, the creation of these facilities is already possible but only if they are connected to existing structures. Approval might be a long way off for ‘starlight rooms’ built from scratch.

“There are 86 municipalities above 1,600 metres in Veneto so, even if there are only two per municipality, we are talking, potentially, about 172 new facilities,” said councillor, Andrea Zanoni who leads

the opposition in the council adding that, “a bed under the stars is not enough, sewers and roads will also be needed to bring VIP tourists to the altitude, maybe pitches to land helicopters disturbing wildlife and bird migration.

Between helicopters and generators to light the new structures, those who walk two to three hours to enjoy the silence and

sounds of nature, will have a nasty surprise.

The regional urban planning law currently imposes an absolute ban on new construction above 1,600 metres with exceptions only for mountain huts, refuges and alpine bivouacs. It is now up to the regional council to decide whether the ‘starlight rooms’ can be classified as such.

Straight shooting

FINLAND which shares a 1,340-kilometre border with Russia, joined Nato in April 2023 after decades of non-alignment.

Even during Finland’s former period of amicable relations with Moscow, the country’s males aged between 18 and 60 have had to complete national service. Now, as Russia becomes a more serious threat, the government wants them to combine the skills they learnt as recruits with shooting as a hobby.

To help them do so, the Defence Ministry announced that the government would open 300 more shooting ranges, bringing the total up to 1,000 by the end of this decade.

Jukka Kopra, an MP in the national parliament, pointed out to the Guardian that Fin-

land’s defence model “benefits from people having and developing their shooting skills on their own.”

Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the number of reservists and civilians volunteering for training courses in defending their country doubled, while there has been a notable increase in applications for gun licences.

The National Defence Training Association of Finland (MPK) organised 116,000 training days in 2023, significantly higher than the 50,000 average of previous years, revealed MPK’s executive director, Antti Lehtisalo,. Finns’ eagerness to defend their country was strong, Lehtisalo, added

STARLIGHT ROOMS: Set in the Dolomites.

Photos: starlightroom.it

MILITARY SERVICE: Obligatory in Finland for males aged 18 to 60.

Photo credit: CC/JIP

Turning sunshine into gold

NO one doubts the health benefits of Spain’s greatest asset: Olive Oil, but in a corner of the Andalucian olive grove, a woman, in a world led by men, growing organically when everyone around her was working in conventional agrochemical production, Bioluz was born, and Esperanza Marín’s organic adventure began.

Anyone who has driven through the Cordoba countryside will have seen the olive groves with the land around and between the trees stripped bare to the pale soil. The Euro Weekly News spoke exclusively to the woman who pioneered a more ecological way of growing olives and in the process produces the highest quality oil using only nature and the warmth of the sun.

Esperanza Marín grew up helping her parents in the countryside and she tells of the days when she saw the birds falling from the trees after the chemical treatments. Her love of nature made her determined to change this, and the practices which had become common in the olive growing world.

In springtime, her olive grove looks more like an English wild flower meadow than the stark clean skimmed earthy surroundings of many of her neighbours. She tells how, in 2007, the received wisdom was that that the environment now needed chemicals, and that if you didn’t spray your olive trees, they would not produce a harvest due to being attacked by pests. “But I knew this wasn’t right and I looked for the

opportunity to learn about organic farming,” Esperanza recalls. She met with some other producers who were equally concerned about the direction things were moving in, and Subbética Ecológica was founded. Esperanza instinctively knew that bugs needed to live, too, and if you removed their environment, of course they would attack the trees. She immediately started to convert the land she had inherited from her pa-

rents into an ecological paradise.

“At that time, if I said I was going green, and talked about it among the men, they didn’t see it as viable,” she tells EWN

It took years of hard work, but Esperanza gradually created an oasis of diversity and natural vegetation in an environment dominated by olive trees and poor soils. Tragically, her husband Paco, who, with Esperanza, was a well-known face at the local farmers’

markets, died in January of this year, but accompanied by her sister, Nati, she continues her work. Esperanza explains how the price of her oil is set. After harvesting and pressing the olives at a carefully chosen mill, the volume of oil has to meet her production, distribution, and living costs. She sets the price for the year, and reviews the following January based on the new harvest. Drought has severely impacted on the volume of oil produced. Hence, the price of Olive Oil has risen sharply. Ecological Olive Oil producers can be found on subbeticaecologica.com.

Photo: Subbética Ecológica

A springtime garden.

Esperanza Marín, and sister, Nati.

IRELAND

More hope

TAOISEACH (Prime Minister) Leo Varadkar announced an €800 million investment in cross-border projects, which he said was the largest-ever package of this kind. “The return of the power-sharing executive is hugely important for the people of Northern Ireland,” Varadkar said, “and has brought renewed hope.”

Penny-wise

IRELAND’S national debt works out at €42,000 for every member of the population, making it one of the highest in the world, the Department of Finance said. It also warned that by 2030, the Irish state would need an additional €8 billion a year to maintain current funding levels for areas like healthcare and pensions.

EURO PRESS

BELGIUM

No romance

THERE was no truth in rumours that Princess Elisabeth of Belgium, who is first in line to the throne and studying at Oxford, was “in a relationship with a fellow student named Nicholas,” the young man’s family said. “They merely go to the same college and study together,” a relative told a UK newspaper.

ELISABETH: Belgium’s crown princess with King Charles.

SWEDEN

Boar off

WILD boars were found dead near Fagersta, 145 kilometres north-west of Stockholm, in August and September 2023 although Swedish expert Karl Stahl said there was currently “zero” risk of more swine fever in Sweden. The last wild boar to test positive died in September and the disease was no longer circulating, Stahl said.

False alarm

A SUSPICIOUS package found amongst luggage on an SAS flight taking off from Arlanda Airport turned out to be harmless, said police who were called to the scene on February 21. Passengers were evacuated while the aircraft was cordoned off but later allowed to return and continue with their journey.

NORWAY DENMARK

Less rich

NORWAY had Europe’s highest disposable income in 2022 but its average of €8,337 by late 2023 put it in sixth place after Belgium, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands and Austria according to Eurostat, the European data agency. Economic experts attributed the decline to higher interest rates on mortgages and bank loans.

Jellyfish peril

A TOTAL of 65 million farmed salmon perished in Norway’s fish farms in 2023, a 27 per cent increase on 2022, the Institute of Marine Research reported. The “dizzyingly” high number was caused by jellyfish attacks on fish farm pens as well as outbreaks of diseases which required the destruction of millions of fish.

ITALY FRANCE

Dog danger

A GIRL of two was helicoptered to a Rome hospital in a serious condition after she was attacked by her grandmother’s two dogs, one of which was a German shepherd. The attack occurred in her grandparents’ home in Anguillara Sabazia, where they were looking after the child while her parents were at work.

In a hole

THE occupants of a parked car and another that was moving were rescued with minor injuries after a sinkhole in a Naples street swallowed both vehicles in the early hours of February 21. Gaetano Manfredi, Naples’ mayor, said the incident was the result of neglecting the city’s sewage system “for many years.”

Hot stuff

NINE HUNDRED tons of lithium batteries recently went up in smoke at a Viviez (Toulouse) recycling plant. Essential for items ranging from mobile phones to electric cars, the batteries’ combination of inflammable materials and stored energy meant they ignited easily when exposed to heat, firefighters explained.

Veg pledge

THE French Nutrition Society (SFN), a body of public and private sector nutrition experts, together with Climate Action Network (RAC), issued a document stating that the French needed to change their eating habits. They were also advised to reduce meat consumption “for the sake of the planet’s health.”

Keep out

DENMARK is fighting a UK ban on fishing for sand eels on Dogger Bank in the North Sea, maintaining that Britain is reneging on the Brexit agreement. The sand eel is an important primary source for the country’s produce fishmeal and fish oil industry in Denmark, Foreign minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said.

Toxic buildup

WASTE from an abandoned steelworks in Frederiksvaerk is contaminating Roskilde Fjord with hazardous manmade PFAS chemicals and equally dangerous phenols. The pollution, which accumulated over decades, could “probably” put the fjord at risk, a report by the Greater Copenhagen regional authority maintained.

Back home

FOREIGN residents who work in Portugal sent €570 million to their countries of origin in 2023, an increase of 7.39 per cent on 2022, when they sent back €530.96 million and comfortably above the €504.17 million sent in 2021. Much of this went to Brazil, which accounted for around half of the remittances.

Revenue loss

ELIMINATING tolls on the former motorway in the Interior and Algarve would cost the state around €113 million, Miguel Cruz, stated-owned Infraestruturas de Portugal’s chairman, told the Portuguese media. He also confirmed that the Beira Alta and South International Corridor railway lines would be completed in 2024.

NETHERLANDS

Nice and warm

FEBRUARY 15 was the warmest February 15 ever known, with temperatures reaching 15.5 degrees, announced the De Bilt weather station near Utrecht where official records are set. “We have broken a lot more heat records than cold records over the past few years,” said Marco Verhoef, the NOS broadcaster’s weatherman.

Wrong snow

SKI accidents were 10 per cent up in the Netherlands so far in 2024, compared to 2023, the Eurocross emergency response centre said, with “breaks, knee injuries and torn ligaments.” The problem was warm weather which produced the slushy kind of snow responsible for accidents like these, a spokesperson said.

FINLAND

GERMANY PORTUGAL

Moving out

HUNDREDS of Finns who received more than €50,000 a year in unearned income moved abroad between 2019-2022 to dodge or reduce the amount of capital gains tax they had to pay, a report from the Finnwatch organisation maintained. Sweden, Switzerland, Spain and the US were the most popular boltholes.

In tune

GRAMEX, Finland’s copyright organisation, quoted figures which showed that a record-breaking number of songs were registered in 2023. The 21,785 new songs, many of them the work of social media influencers, that were registered with Gramex last year was 30 per cent higher than those copyrighted in 2022.

Empty pews

FIVE Catholic churches closed recently in Kiel, where most of the population are Protestant and buildings are being deconsecrated and demolished to make way for housing. By last year only 50 per cent of Germans belonged to the two principal Christian faiths, which have lost hundreds of thousands of parishioners.

Tesla tussle

RESIDENTS in Grunheide, a rural community under 8,000, voted against authorising a rail goods depot and storage facilities which would have been used by Tesla’s batteries and car assembly plant. Plans, which included building a goods depot and storage facilities, would have entailed felling 250 acres of trees.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Filling up

SPAIN now has 12,636 independent petrol stations, overtaking the Repsol, Cepsa or BP chains and accounting for 45 per cent of the country’s network, the National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) figures revealed. Selfservice outlets are also due to increase from 13 to 20 per cent of the total this year.

Looking better

BANK OF ENGLAND governor Andrew Bailey told the Treasury Select Committee on February 20 that there were “clear signs of an upturn” although the economy went into recession at the end of 2023. He also told the MPs that current investor bets on a cut in the bank rate were no longer “unreasonable.”

Arms race

CHARLES WOODBURN, chief executive of the British armaments multinational BAE Systems, revealed that the company had accumulated £70 billion (€81.7 billion) of orders by late 2023. He also warned that although global conflict boosted arms sales, ramping up production after post-Cold War cutbacks “took time”.

Eagle eye

AN EU directive now in force throughout Spain means that the Agencia Tributaria tax authority will want more extensive information regarding earnings that are made via digital platforms like Wallapop, eBay, Vinted or Airbnb. Tax returns must be made after taking an annual €2,000 or making 30 transactions.

Bodywork

THE BODY SHOP confirmed that it was closing almost half of its 198 UK stores for good, with seven that shut down on February 20. New owners, the European private equity firm Aurelius which specialises in turning round failing companies, is also cutting 40 per cent of jobs at its London headquarters.

€1.46 billion STAT OF WEEK

outlay for the latest share buyback programme announced by Santander bank, together with a 50 per cent increase in its dividend for 2023 compared with 2022’s.

Hunt’s wiggle room

Linda Hall

BRITAIN’S Chancellor

Jeremy Hunt has a £9.2 billion (€10.7 billion) surplus to play with for his March 6 pre-election Budget.

During the first 10 months of the government’s financial year, which ends on March 31, borrowing amounted to £96.6 billion (€112.8 billion), the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed.

This was below the expectations of the tax and spending regulator, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), which anticipated government borrowing of £105.8 billion (€123.6 billion) at this stage. The record figure was boosted by a £16.7 billion

Green

(€19.5 billion) surplus in January, which is the month when British taxpayers file their returns and was also helped by lower interest payments on government debt. This was more than twice January 2023’s £7.5

billion (€8.7 billion) surplus.

Nevertheless, financial markets had foreseen an £18.7 billion (€21.8 billion) surplus. Jessica Barnaby, deputy director of the ONS’ Public Sector division revealed that “in nominal

for Orange

AFTER a lengthy in-depth scrutiny of the €18.6 billion deal, Brussels cleared the Orange-MasMovil merger on February 20.

But there are strings attached as the EU’s Competition regulator had previously feared that creating the largest operator in Spain would push up prices for mobile customers by more than 10 per cent.

As a result, Brussels is obliging the newly-formed company to cede three of its frequency spectrum bands to Romania-based Digi.

SPAIN’S trade gap fell by 40 per cent to €40.56 billion in 2023, thanks to a 7 per cent reduction in energy imports, particularly gas.

Xiana Mendez, the country’s junior minister for Commerce, announced exports which reached €383.68 billion last year, the second-highest yet after the record year of 2022, with imports of €424 billion. The European Union remained Spain’s principal export market and accounted for 62.7 per cent of the total although exports to Australia and other Oceania countries rose by 8.7 per cent, followed by Latin America (8.1per cent) and European countries outside the EU (4.6 per cent).

“The commitments offered by the parties will enable Digi, the largest and fastest-growing mobile virtual network operator in Spain, to replicate the strong competitive pressure exerted by MasMovil,” announced Competition commissioner Margrethe Vestager.

Digi will also receive an option for a national roaming agreement, the commissioner said.

Between them, the merged companies will have 7.3 million broadband clients, more than 30 million mobile phone clients and approximately 2.2

THE National High Court in Madrid upheld National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) claims of a price-fixing milk cartel.

This provided nine companies with cheap supplies while preventing farmers from negotiating prices, the tribunal ruled.

The court rejected appeals from Calidad Pascual, Central Lechera Galicia, Grupo Lactalis Iberia, Nestle and Schrieber Food España, but lowered the fines totalling €86 million which the CNMC recommended to €28 million.

Appeals by Comercial Alimentaria Peñasanta, Danone, Industrias Lacteas Granada (Puleva), and Asociacion de Empresas Lacteas de Galicia were partially accepted, as the time limit for some of the periods under investigation had expired.

terms” the January surplus was the greatest since modern records began in 1993, although borrowing in the 10 months ending in January 2024 was only marginally lower than in the same period in 2023.

Falling inflation measured by the retail prices index resulted in lower payments to those holding government bonds, Barnaby added, while an end to last year’s support for energy bills also reduced state spending.

National debt as a share of the economy had continued to increase and represented 96.7 per cent of Britain’s gross product (GDP) in January, an increase of 1.8 percentage points.

television subscribers. This gives them more customers than any other Spanish telecommunications company, pushing Telefonica into second place for the first time in its history.

The new company, which will continue to be headquartered in France, envisages annual revenues of €7.4 billion.

Tower power

LONDON’S Grade II-listed BT Tower will become a hotel.

The telecoms company announced that it was selling the 189-metre tower to the US hotel chain MCR Hotels for £275 million (€321.2 million). The technological value of the tower completed in 1964 was now ‘limited’ owing to the evolution of both landline and mobile networks, BT Group explained.

Converting the Fitzrovia site into a hotel will need time, as BT Group expects to take years to vacate the tower because of the ‘scale and complexity’ of removing all its technical equipment.

TWENTY-FIVE

per cent of Britain’s capital gains went to Londoners between 2015 and 2019.

Even then, the gains were concentrated in five London constituencies of Kensington, City of London and Westminster; Chelsea and Fulham; Hampstead and Kilburn and Richmond Park.

Residents in Notting Hill, which belongs to Kensington and is an enclave of 6,400 people, earned as much in capital gains during this four-year period as Liverpool, Manchester and Newcastle combined. All would have benefited from a lower tax rate than the tax which must be paid on income earned from a salary.

Meanwhile, researchers from the University of Warwick and the London School of Economics who analysed unidentifiable personal tax returns between 2015 and 2019 found that 97 per cent of the population received no capital gains at all.

SPAIN’S government is scrutinising the €632 million Talgo takeover by Hungarian group, Magyar Vagon.

As rolling stock manufacturer Talgo is strategically important, the government reserves the right to veto the proposed deal. “Should it give permission, it would do so with the assurance that it could maintain strategic control,” Industry minister Jordi Hereu added.

Magyar Vagon said jobs and Talgo factories would remain in Spain, although the government is analysing possible links with Hungary’s government headed by Viktor Orban and the possible involvement of Russian cash.

BARCLAYS will lend a minimum of £30 billion (€35 billion) to UK families and businesses over the next three years.

Demonstrating its faith in Britain’s economy, the bank is forsaking lending restrictions that were imposed first by Brexit and later by the pandemic, Barclays’ chief executive CS Venkatakrishnan - known as Venkat - said.

Instead it would invest more money in UK credit card lending, mortgages, unsecured loans and business loans.

Photo credit: orange.com

Photo credit: HM Treasury/ Andrew Parsons

MERGER: Orange-MasMovil will be headquartered in France.

BUSINESS EXTRA

It’ll cost you

NET ZERO emissions will cost more than the public realises, the International Monetary Fund’s former chief economist Olivier Blanchard told the House of Lords Economic Affairs Committee on February 20. The low-carbon economy was “necessary”, Blanchard conceded, but it was essential to send out the message it was going to be expensive, he said.

Up and down

TELEFONICA reported 2023 revenues of €40.65 billion in 2023, 1.6 per cent more than 2022 and its highest since the pandemic. Despite this increase, the telecoms company was €892 in the red for the first time since 2002 after spending €1.3 billion on redundancies and €3.6 billion on its UK subsidiary, Virgin Media 02.

Significant Gibraltar

NIGEL FEETHAM, Gibraltar’s Minister for Justice, Trade and Industry, recently met several senior leaders from the gambling sector.

They included Stella David and Per Widerstrom, respective chief executives of Entain Group and 888 Holdings.

The 888 company acquired the William Hill brand in July 2022 and is currently integrating both businesses in Gibraltar. Entain has also been through some structural changes.

FASHION multinational Hennes & Mauritz (H&M) is losing out to rivals.

H&M reported a €775-million profit for 2023, compared with €316 million in 2022, although its share price has dipped 16 per cent over the last six months and it closed 28 stores in Spain alone. Underlying problems were demonstrated by the sudden departure of chief executive Helena Helm on

January 31. Bankinter analyst Elena Fernandez-Trapiella Janssen explained to national daily, El Pais, that Helm’s departure came as a surprise although it was obvious that her turnaround plans were not gelling. “They closed offices and improved efficiency, but profit margins remained below 7 per cent, compared with Inditex’s 23 per cent,” Fernandez-Trapiella said.

“These companies have significant substance in Gibraltar and are major contributors to the local economy,” Feetham said.

The gambling sector accounts for around 28 per cent of Gibraltar’s gross domestic product (GDP), the minister pointed out.

“Our meetings provided an opportunity to discuss several issues,” Feetham continued. “These included regulation, taxation, business optimisation and the substance that gambling firms were required, and expected, to maintain in Gibraltar as part of the licensing proposition.”

The minister also expressed satisfaction with the companies’ commitment to Gibraltar as an important hub for multi-jurisdictional businesses.

He was very grateful for the time invested in these discussions and agreed to remain closely engaged with both companies, Feetham added.

UNION negotiations with the finance sector revealed that thanks to internal restructuring and record profits, Santander had 357 executives who earned more than €1 million in 2023, 30 per cent up on 2024. Two top earners were newly-recruited executives whose ‘golden hello’ bonuses put them on salaries outstripping that of the bank chairman Ana Botin, Santander sources disclosed.

Big earners Luton boost

ITALY-US vehicle manufacturing conglomerate Stellantis announced from 2025 it would produce medium-sized electric vans at the Vauxhall plant in Luton for the Citroen, Peugeot and Fiat Professional brands. The move will safeguard the jobs of the plant’s 1,500 employees following difficult times for the automotive sector owing to Brexit trade complications and a shortage of semiconductor chips.

Photo credit: Nigel Feetham

NIGEL FEETHAM: Gibraltar’s Minister for Justice, Trade and Industry.

Complete control

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

ALMOST two years ago I wrote that Labour had to make sure their anti-governmental actions must continue unabated if they had any chance of winning the next election. Almost unbelievably Starmer’s brigades are still managing to do precisely that.

With the assistance of the unions and biased media, they have maintained strike after strike, continuing to depress and demoralise a British public into such a climate of misery and dejection that it will do almost anything to bring a little sunshine and hope into their beleaguered lives.

This week the Unions announced that the train drivers’ strikes could continue for another six months (surprise, surprise). An action which will extend the long suffering of the public perpetrated by a group of employees, already actually earning in advance of £1,250 a week!

If Labour does get in, the Union bosses, before returning to relax in their Costa villas, will triumphantly converge on number 10 and amid the pints of beer and me-

dium sherries, congratulate each other on a successful conspiracy well-coordinated and organised. The biased media will ease up on all depressive reporting and smile broadly at their ‘relieved’ viewers as the solutions to long term problems appear to miraculously come to pass.

In the first hundred days, the Rayner brigade will be a gleeful party to the rejuvenation of their beloved ’workers rights’ bill, which has of course been their objective all along. This bill, honed down by the incoming conservative party, will then be the forerunner of complete disaster for the whole utterly browbeaten British populace. The act was bad enough all those years ago.

In these times, with immigrant numbers already swollen to almost unmanageable heights, it will be a catastrophe. Basically it actually means that employers are from day one, not allowed to sack anyone. Should an employee appear to deserve the sack for almost any reason, they can then declare unfair dismissal, appeal the decision and will automatically await the verdict of a tribunal.

While waiting, possibly for months or even years, they will of course be retained on full wages, while they sit watching tele

waiting for the pubs to open.

Can you imagine the sheer numbers of immigrants obtaining jobs they are nowhere near familiar with (or actually capable of) and even after a fully-deserved dismissal, continue to collect wages and benefits, while the employers face the wrath of the unions and their cohorts? A high number of other disasters emerge from these situations.

New business investment totally dries up. Companies, who carry on, naturally have to be extremely careful who they employ and can no longer put new employees on a probationary period, which dramatically pushes up unemployment. Non workers, who claim their newly available exorbitant Labour government benefits, then proceed to create run down areas steeped in crime containing huge numbers of party supporters, who would rather not work anyway.

All of this produces exactly what the Labour party and unions desire; complete control over an anti-royalist, communist, diversified and brainwashed population. Good luck.

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.

WITH winter still upon us many people will be deciding how best to keep their homes warm. The choices seem endless, confusing, and contradictory. There is no simple answer, or single best solution. Tony and Richard at Neater Heater have, however, got one solution that deserves serious consideration.

There are many reasons to choose electricity as your heating option. It is clean, requires no effort to maintain, and has a comparatively small installation cost. In fact Tony and Richard claim to be able to install a five heater system for the same price that many people pay just to have a gas bottle casita built. But once you have decided on electricity then you have even more choices to contend with.

The Neater Heater team sympathise with you, because that is exactly where they were 15 years ago. After discarding the unhealthy Gas Estufas, and deciding to ‘Heat Electric’ they tried various options - as

easyJet - elevating Eurovision

EASYJET has been confirmed as the Eurovision Song Contest’s Official Airline Partner, symbolising a fusion of travel and music that promises to connect the European continent.

Announced on Tuesday, February 20, easyJet will serve as the Official Airline Partner for the Eurovision Song Contest over a span of three years, beginning with this year’s spectacle in May.

The airline is gearing up to transport thousands of Eurovision enthusiasts from across Europe to Copenhagen Airport, offering direct access to Malmo, Sweden.

Nearly three decades ago, easyJet revolutionised travel, making flying accessible for countless individuals

Fighting the winter blues with Neater Heater

customers - and realised one thing. There were no affordable good electric heaters on the market. Elec tric heaters tended to fall into one of the following categories.

• Very expensi ve (€400-€800) but make a virtue of be ing economical,

• Cheap to buy (But horren dously expensive to run) oil-filled heaters,

• Economical to run (but inefficient) panel heaters.

With a great stroke of luck, it was while actively looking for a heater for his son’s room that Tony came across, and insta-

lled, some Norwegian BEHA convector heaters. That decision was life changing.

Discovering just how good these heaters were, Tony saw a business opportunity and

approached his friend Richard Winter and between them they started Neater Heater.

As Richard explains: “The beauty about Neater Heaters is that they are simple but are built to the highest quality. It also helps that they look good. They use modern, state of the art technology, such as extruded aluminium for the element, and a highly sensitive thermostat. This produces an affordable no-nonsense heater that works efficiently and economically to keep your home warm through those long cold winter nights.”

NEATER HEATER DISTRIBUTORS: COSTA DEL SOL

CALAHONDA: The Bed Warehouse Spain. Tel. 634 187 700

Heaters also available for purchase at our online shop with free home delivery WWW.NEATERHEATER.ES or Tel. 634 312 171 (WhatsApp available)

and heralding a new era of European exploration. Presently, the airline boasts a workforce of over 17,000 individuals from 97 nationalities, speaking more than 43 languages across eight European countries.

With a commanding presence on Europe’s most frequented routes, easyJet offers flights to over 150 airports in 35 countries, ensuring that over 300 million Europeans are just an hour’s drive from an easyJet flight.

The 2024 contest in Malmo, Sweden, promises to be a spectacular affair, with 37 broadcasters vying for the coveted title, underscoring the EBU’s commitment to fostering public service media for a sustainable future.

Our heaters are not only efficient, effective, and economical, but as you would expect from a Scandinavian product, they are extremely stylish and practical. There is a model that will suit anyone, from the BEHA, (Bluetooth option or Wi-Fi option) and the NEO Wi-Fi, so that you can control your heaters easily via a WiFi APP but still being able to control them manually if preferred, or the trendy original style Neo with digital controls and a choice of colours and if you are limited for wall space, then available for purchase are factory designed feet to enable the heater to be freestanding.

However, a few years ago we added the NEO Wi-Fi Compact model. This heater shares the design technology and ethos of the current NEO heaters, but it has two differences: It is much smaller in length, thus able to fit into tighter wall spaces, plus this model has the added bonus of a 2.5 kw version as well.

Which country works the most hours?

IN the wake of the Spanish government’s push to reduce weekly working hours, it raises the question: which countries are the most hard-working?

The Spanish Minister of Labour and Social Economy, Yolanda Diaz, has proposed reducing the workweek from 40 to 37.5 hours.

This move, aimed at improving work-life balance, wouldn’t uniformly impact all sectors or workers. This initiative has ignited discussions about work hours in OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) countries, leading to an intriguing comparison of international work patterns.

According to the most recent data, Colombia tops the list in the OECD with a staggering 2,405 hours worked per year

per active person.

Mexico and Costa Rica follow closely, both surpassing the 2,000-hour mark annually. This data positions these countries at the higher end of the working hours spectrum.

Conversely, Denmark, Norway, and Germany sit at the lower end, clocking in at around 1,380, 1,384, and 1,386 hours per year respectively. These figures represent a significant 36 per cent reduction compared to Colombia.

Spain currently sits in the mid-range of the OECD table, with an average of 1,686 hours wor-

ked per year per employee. This is slightly below the OECD average of 1,726 hours.

Should Yolanda Diaz’s proposal be implemented, Spain’s annual working hours would potentially decrease to 1,580. This adjustment would still position Spain above many European counterparts.

It’s crucial to note, however, that several sectors in Spain already have workweeks shorter than 40 hours due to specific collective agreements and regulations for civil servants.

The workweek landscape across OECD countries is diverse, reflecting a range of socio-economic and cultural factors. As Spain considers a shift in its work hours, it joins a global conversation on balancing productivity and well-being.

No abdication for King Harald

Linda Hall

KING HARALD of Norway has no abdication plans and the population has no wish to see him go.

A survey for Norwegian Broadcasting (NRK) showed that 72 per cent of the population supported the monarchy. Although this has dropped from 81 per cent in 2017 and 78 per cent in 2022, only 16 per cent of Norwegians want to replace the country’s constitutional monarchy with a republic.

The remaining 11 per cent admitted that they were undecided.

At the same time, support amongst the 18-29 age group has declined from 82 per cent in 2018 to 62 per cent in 2024.

The poll’s findings, which coincided with King Harald’s 87th birthday on February 21, revealed that 64 per cent of Norwegians do not want him to abdicate in favour of his son, Prince Haakon.

Harald has made it clear that he has no intention of following the lead of Queen Margarethe of Denmark who at the age of 83 abdicated in favour of her son, Frederik on January 24 this year, exactly 52 years after coming to the throne.

“I swore an oath to parliament and it is for life,” the King has said on

more than one occasion, although he has been admitted to hospital several times in recent months with respiratory infections. He underwent successful cancer treatment in 2003 and in October 2020 had surgery to replace a heart valve after being treated for breathing difficulties.

Even Norway’s leftwing press had praise for the King on his birthday. Despite lacking political power, Harald possessed “moral authority”, the historian, philosopher and author Rune Slagstad wrote.

NORWAY’S MONARCH: King Harald on his 87th birthday.

Global work statistics.

Photo credit: royalcourt.no

A quality removal & storage service

THE BRITISH REMOVAL COMPANY is located in Malaga, offering a removal and storage service for the Costa del Sol.

We have been based in Alhaurin de la Torre near Malaga Airport since 2002 and provide a quality and competitively priced service for all your moving requirements.

The British Removal Company is a Spanish SL registered business (CIF number B92524909) and has a Spanish and European Transport Licence. We are very experienced and knowledgeable regarding the undertaking of removals within Spain.

We specialise in local moves within Andalucia using our fleet of smaller vans which can easily get to those difficult locations within the Spanish villages and campo areas.

We also undertake international removals between Spain, Gibraltar, UK and Ireland. We provide a regular international transport service with our large pantechnicon lorries

leaving Malaga every month for the UK. Let our expertise ease the pressure and make the journey between Spain, Gibraltar and the UK (in either direction) a simple stress-free experience - including full customs clearance.

The international removal industry has completely changed since Brexit. Our knowledgeable office staff will guide you through the customs process, assisting you with all the required paperwork.

Our UK depot is a BAR member (British Association of Removers) and is located in Preston, Lancashire, providing a removal service for the whole of the UK.

Our fully trained operative staff can provide a full export packing and wrapping service using quality packing materials. We also sell quality, competitively priced boxes, bubble wrap, paper and tape should you wish to pack your own personal effects.

The British Removal Company has an excellent storage facility. Our modern 1,200 square foot warehouse offers clean, safe and secure containerised storage.

Our fully alarmed warehouse provides 24-hour security and easy access. It consists of 6.5 cubic metre wooden storage containers that have been specially constructed to hold household and personal effects. Containerised storage is the cheapest and easiest way to store goods long term.

We welcome potential clients to visit our warehouse. Before you decide to use The British Removal Company our office staff will be more than happy to discuss your removal and storage requirements and show you around our high quality facility.

All removal and storage work undertaken by The British Removal Company has Extended Liability Insurance Cover.

For all your removal needs contact The British Removal Company for advice and a free without obligation quotation. We will arrange for our surveyor to visit you, discuss your requirements and advise on the best course of action specific to your move.

We also have an online quotation form that can be used if required which can be found at our website - www.brcspain.com.

Hit and run

Nora Shephard

IN a curious event, a food delivery robot in Helsinki had a bit of a mishap with a parked car, making it the rst incident of its kind in the Nordic climate.

Last summer, the S Group grocery chain introduced robots to help with food deliveries in nine Finnish cities.

These robots, made by Starship Technologies and looking like mini rovers with six wheels, became quite popular among customers as they zoomed around the streets.

But then came winter, and people wondered how well these robots would handle the cold and snow.

The company responded by giving the robots special winter tyres to help them navigate through the winter weather. However, despite these preparations, unexpected things can still happen in the real world.

According to reports, one of the delivery robots had a small accident when it bumped into a parked car in Helsinki before continuing on its way as if nothing had happened.

It was the rst time such a thing had occurred with an autonomous vehicle, as noted by Finnish media.

Food delivery robots.

Eyewitnesses shared what they saw with local media.

The robot was travelling along a pavement covered in snow that hadn’t been cleared, causing it to lean towards a parked car because of the icy edge.

Struggling to move on the slippery surface, the robot accidentally scratched the car while trying to get unstuck.

It was only with the help of a passerby that the robot was able to get free.

Once back on the pavement, it continued its delivery route, seemingly unaware that it should have exchanged insurance information.

MORE women are choosing to give birth alone for various reasons. Some seek a deeply personal and empowering experience, desiring full control over their birthing process without external pressures.

Others may opt for solo births due to dissatisfaction with past hospital experiences or the desire for a serene, intimate setting.

The rise in home births and unassisted childbirth reflects a broader shift towards personalised healthcare, where women are increasingly advocating for their preferences and autonomy in the birthing experience. However, it’s crucial for those considering this path to research, understand the risks involved, and consult professionals first.

Realistic goals Free eyeglasses and contact lenses

SETTING and sticking to realistic exercise goals is paramount for sustained fitness progress. Start with specific, measurable goals that align with your fitness level and preferences. Incorporating variety in your workouts, such as a mix of cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises, can prevent boredom and promote overall fit-

ness. Break your goals down into smaller, achievable milestones for regular motivation boosts.

Consistency is more important than intensity; regular, moderate activity is better than sporadic, intense workouts.

Find activities you enjoy to ensure long-term commitment. Accountability is crucial; consider a workout buddy or a fit-

ness app to keep track of your progress.

Adjust your goals as you progress, allowing flexibility in your plan to accommodate changes in lifestyle or fitness levels. Remember, setbacks are part of the journey; stay patient and resilient. Celebrating small victories along the way can also boost motivation and commitment.

DURING a congressional committee meeting of 2024, the newly appointed Health minister, Monica García, announced that eyeglasses and contact lenses will become free of charge.

In a progressive measure to improve the Spanish healthcare, the Health minister affirmed that the social security system intends to provide the financing for people with eyesight issues.

The target is to ensure future benefits for Spanish citizens. It has been predicted that half of the Spanish population will become affected by myopia within 27 years, due to the heightened use of technology.

According to recent research, at present, seven out of 10 Spanish citizens use glasses or contact lenses daily, so this proposal could affect up to 30 million people in Spain.

In France, the purchase of new glasses every two years is financed by the government for everyone above the age 16 and in Germany glasses and lenses are already free for people below 18 and with serious eye conditions.

Monica Garcia in conversation with the health councillor of Salut.

Feel best at House Hairdressing

ADVERTISING FEATURE

FOR millennia the art of hairdressing has been at the forefront of ensuring that everyone, male or female looks and feels at their very best.

For 10 years now, Anita and Tomas McMillan have practised their craft at House Hairdressing Calahonda following years of success including numerous awards in the UK.

They have built an exceptional team of experienced stylists who are expert in cutting, colouring, extensions, styling and beauty treatments.

From a child’s first haircut (which they know can be traumatic) to simple cuts, blow dries or a spectacular style for special events such as weddings, House Hairdressing offers a complete professional service.

One tends to think of styling for ladies, but Tomas is an expert in men’s grooming and is assisted by two trained stylists so in fact the entire family can benefit from the expertise on offer.

It’s not just about the quality of the

style or the cut, but as a client can spend quite some time being worked on, it is equally important that they should enjoy the experience in comfortable surroundings with friendly and knowledgeable stylists.

The majority of their clients are not only residents, but return time and time again because of the quality of the service they receive and the simple fact is that hair just keeps on growing and if you want to look your best, then only the best should be trusted to look

after it!

It’s that expertise that means Anita explains to clients that blow dries don’t last in the heat and humidity of the Costa del Sol when compared to colder climates, so the salon uses vegan products which are sulphate, paraben and silicone free which are much kinder to the hair.

Nowadays, hair extensions are a huge business and House Hairdressing can offer consultation with their extension specialist who will explain about wefts, I-tips (no heat), K-tips

The House Hairdressing, Local 8, CC Los Olivos, Calle Los Adarves, Calahonda, 29649, Mijas, Malaga

Open Tuesday to Saturday 10.00am to 6pm

Contact details 951 666 774 / 604 477 910

The House Hairdressing Facebook, Instagram @the_house_hairdressing

(using heat) and tapes but in addition, thinking of clients’ pockets, they also offer an extension rental service.

As well as offering a range of traditional and innovative hairdressing options, Anita has recently qualified in the art of mesh integration which is a unique way of dealing with problems encountered by Alopecia sufferers as well as those with trichotillomania.

There is a wealth of expertise at House Hairdressing and because different stylists have been crafting their trade for different periods of time, there are many price options so whatever your budget, there is bound to be an affordable option.

The salon is open Tuesday to Saturday and although walk-ins are possible, it is always best to make an appointment in order to ensure that you are attended to by the stylist of your choice and those working there offer a choice of Spanish, English and Hungarian.

With Mother’s Day falling on March 10 in the Channel Islands, Ireland and the UK why not spoil yourself (or your partner) with a special makeover or buy a House Hairdressers’ voucher to use later in the year.

Spain is 8th

WITH an impressive array of 173 production sites and a €20 billion turnover, Spain’s footprint in the global pharmaceutical landscape is undeniable, ranking as the eighth largest market worldwide. However, the high degree of external dependence is still worrying.

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, Spain saw a dramatic spike in Paracetamol usage, witnessing a 36.9 per cent increase between 2021 and 2022 alone.

The bulk of Paracetamol tablets in Spain are imported from India and China, and a smaller portion coming from the US.

The Spanish government has identified 903 different types of medications, including amoxicillin and several antidiabetic drugs, that could face supply issues. This situation is attributed to a sudden rise in demand and that production is being outsourced to other countries.

Sculpting strong arms

ACHIE

VING we

ll-de fined arms involves a combination of tar geted exercises and the right equipment.

Dumbbell curls stand out as a classic yet effective choice, targeting the biceps for noticeable re sults. For overa ll arm strength, incorporating tricep dips is essential, requiring no more than a sturdy chair or bench.

SOMETIMES we forget to pay the required attention to our health thereby forgetting to perform routine health checks. In our clinic not only will you find the best health care professionals who can help you with this, but they also help you obtain results quickly. You will find the best professionals and the fastest results. Don’t leave it any longer, if you were thinking about having to visit a specialist, call us and let’s schedule an appointment FOR YOU! Avenida de España 20, Local 5 sitio de Calahonda, Malaga. +34 952 933 377

To enhance your arm workout, consider investing in resistance bands.

These versatile tools add resistance to various exercises, challenging your muscles for optimal growth. Push-ups, a bodyweight favourite, effectively engage the entire arm and chest muscles, requiring no additional equipment.

For a more advanced approach, kettlebells offer a dynamic range of motion, promoting muscle stability and endurance.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, a combination of these exercises, coupled with the right equipment, will help you sculpt strong, toned arms that showcase your dedication to fitness.

Are you looking for a summer school for your child?

Come and enjoy our new programme

THE International School Estepona is offering a brand-new summer school programme; an exciting and entertaining local favourite for all children aged four-12 years old. This will run from Monday July 1 until Friday August 2 inclusive, starting at 9.30 until 15.00. There are two options available; you can either book the full five weeks’ programme, receiving a discount, or choose your own sessions.

The prices are only €35.00 per session or €850.00 for the full programme (€25.00 discount included). Lunches are included in the price and will be provided by the school’s official catering service.

Whether you are living here on the coast or just visiting on holiday, the summer school is a great opportunity to experience what ISE has to offer to younger members of

the family.

ISE has great facilities; secure, enclosed gardens, a fabulous sports ground and airy classrooms with air conditioning.

Summer is the ideal time for your child to enjoy their hobbies and boost their level of English. Therefore, ISE is the best option for children to learn English, whilst having fun and discovering new interests.

The New Summer School Programme is designed to activate children’s learning through fun activities; cookery, art and crafts, physical activities and music, with content adapted to each age group.

The school will help to allow the children to express themselves with self-assurance, develop their creativity, provide them with multi-sensorial activities and improve their agility, along with their team-working skills. In addition, there will be

activities to help ESL children, gain the confidence they need to acquire new vocabulary and grammar and in turn speak English with fluency.

The summer school also allows children that are new to the area, to experience the school and its surroundings.

The ISE also provides holiday clubs all year round. The holiday clubs are available during half terms in October, February and May. They are also available during the main holidays, such as Christmas and Easter. Visit the school website marbellaschool.com for more information or check out our social media pages on Facebook ( @InternationalSchoolEstepona ) and Instagram ( @isemarbellaschool ).

Our goal is to create a safe and happy environment so that children can learn new skills, socialise and make new friends.

Say it with sweets

LOVE HEARTS: forget Tinder, in the 70s and 80s all you needed was a packet of sweets. There are currently 105 different Love Hearts messages according to the manufacturer, Swizzels, who started making the sweets in 1954.

There have been some short-lived messages that haven’t stood the test of time: both ‘FAX ME’ and ‘PAGE ME’ came and went in the 80s and, in the last 66 years, Love Hearts have evolved. There was brief rebranding when Swizzels collaborated with YoungMinds, the UK’s leading charity fighting for young people’s mental health. Called ‘Kind Hearts’, there were eight new messages including: ‘STAY STRONG’, ‘LOVE YOURSELF’, and ‘BE KIND’.

Then at the start of 2024, the US equivalent, called ‘Sweethearts’ started selling limited-edition ‘Situationship Boxes’, with, ‘messages

LOVE HEARTS: Be Happy is the UK’s favourite one.

as blurry as your relationships’.

Oxford University Press, named ‘situationship’ a finalist for 2023 word of the year and defines it as, “A romantic or sexual relationship that is not considered to be formal or established.” Those in situationships are more than friends, but less than committed romantic partners. Sweethearts said that the messages in the new boxes are just like today’s dating landscape whereby your dating app matches can also be hard to read.

More importantly, in 2023, Swizzels set out to discover the answer to the burning question: what is the UK’s favourite Love Hearts message? The number one Love Hearts message favoured by UK sweets fans was: ‘BE HAPPY’!

These are the UK’s top 5 Love Hearts messages:

1. BE HAPPY

2. I LOVE YOU

3. BE MINE

4. ALWAYS

5. LOVE YOU

What was your favourite Love Hearts message?

Photo: Flickr CC ru_anderson

• News Across The Regions •

Costa Blanca North 14 million investment

THE Valencian Community Council, Carlos Mazon, affirmed an investment of over €14 million into the Costa Blanca region.

The regional Deputies are adjusting to the needs of the Valencian municipalities, changing their approach by, “lowering taxes and committing to social policies.”

Mazon had highlighted, “improving primary care and implementing the Mental Health Plan,” as his priority, using the funds to empower the people of the Marina Alta.

One of the projects from the investment is the legislature of the Gandia-Denia tram, which as the Council of the Valencian Community stated, will result in, “No more waiting and delays. It is only fair that this historic and necessary demand now begins to be a reality.”

Axarquia Desalination deadline

IN a recent meeting at the Palacio de San Telmo, Sevilla, President Juanma Moreno, and Minister Teresa Ribera affirmed the joint commitment to combat drought in Andalucia.

The focus lies on the anticipated desalination plant in Axarquia, expected to be operational by 2027 or 2028. While the start date for construction remains uncertain, efforts will also involve boosting existing desalination capacities and exploring water transport by ship.

Ribera clarified that the complex approval process influences the desalination project’s timeline, making 2027-2028 more realistic. The collaboration includes urgent measures like reactivating hydraulic projects, advancing pending desalination initiatives, and considering water sources outside Andalusia. President Moreno emphasised preparedness, revealing plans for water transport via ships as a last resort.

Mallorca

Ukraine remembered

ON Saturday, February 24, nearly 150 individuals gathered in La Misericordia’s gardens to mark two years since the onset of the Ukrainian conflict. The event was predominantly attended by Ukrainians who displayed flags, photographs of casualties, and banners protesting the ‘genocide’, urging for the conflict not to be forgotten. ‘People continue to suffer from this war … including many children, and we need you to continue supporting us, helping us,’ stated Anastasia Kvach, head of the Associacio Amar Ucraina. A march from Dalt Murada to Plaza España followed. Irina Zubko, of the Ukraine Aid Association, highlighted, “Today our soul aches for Ukraine, we gather here to remember two years of the day that changed our lives and the destiny of our country.”

Costa Blanca South Naval tradition

THE February meeting of the Royal Naval Association Torrevieja Branch (RNATB) was filled with pride and special recognition for dedicated members.

Chairman, Ship Mate (S/M) Tony Jenkins was awarded special RNATB certificates to honour his commitment and loyalty.

Margaret Forshaw BEM received a Gold Certificate for her 20 years of support alongside her late husband, John Forshaw, who was also a founding member.

S/M Bryan Dalton was awarded a Bronze Certificate for his 10 years of membership.

Additionally, the meeting included the usual events, such as the Ex RN Ditty, where retired RN personnel share anecdotes from their service, and Tot Time, where toasts are made to various events, including Valentine’s Day, St. David’s Day, and the health of King Charles III.

Almeria Wings of Freedom

ACCORDING to the Cuevas del Almanzora Council “Equality gives us the wings of freedom” and this will be the main theme on March 8 in the fight against Gender Violence.

It is International Women’s Day on that date but the council wants to highlight the fact that women are still being abused around the world.

Councillor for Equality, Melchora Caparrós made her opinion clear as she said “Being a woman today, in many places in the world, is almost a tragedy, because simply by being a woman, her rights and freedom are eliminated.

“That is immoral, unfair, it is indecent, but, furthermore, it is unsustainable, since there is no progress in a society if equality between men and women does not exist.”

Costa Calida

Michelin sandwich

IN the latest Madrid Fusión event, one of the most significant events in Spain’s culinary scene, the 11th Bocadillo Contest (Sandwich Contest) took centre stage, awarding a Murcia-based establishment with the third prize.

CaféLab, a specialty café in Murcia and Cartagena, clinched the honour with their creation, the ‘Bocadillo de Autor by Magoga,’ crafted by María Gómez, the Michelin-starred chef of Magoga restaurant in Cartagena. The sandwich boasts a Pretzel bread base, featuring smoked coffee butter - a unique ingredient symbolising the collaboration between CaféLab and Magoga.

Available at any of their three cafés in Cartagena and Murcia, the ‘Bocadillo de Autor by Magoga’ (Signature Sandwich by Magoga) is a testament to the rich gastronomy of the region.

Elke has had a long career in IT

THE Barona Service Centre in the centre of Fuengirola already employs more than 350 sales, IT, and customer service employees in modern office space. There are people of many ages and in many different life situations, as well as space for new Barona employees.

One of the service centre’s employees was Elke, who headed to Fuengirola and has already had a long career in the IT industry in Finland.

“I wanted to stop the treadmill, which I felt was spinning a bit too fast in Finland, but also to learn new things professionally and get to know new people under the Spanish sun. Moving here has been a very positive culture shock for me in all respects,” Elke says.

He recommends working at Barona’s service centre to everyone and all ages, as there are good opportunities for both beginners and longterm ICT experts.

“I would like to emphasise that it is also possible to change fields or landscapes in adulthood. Working at a service centre can also be a

good start to the careers of those who apply for IT jobs through retraining, for example. For me, working here has been a great opportunity to look at working life and life in general a bit outside the sandbox,” Elke says.

Work in remote support is challenging and motivating

Elke works at Fujitsu’s remote support desk, where he helps Fujitsu’s end customers in Finland. According to Elke, the job offers a suitable number of challenges, even though it does not require an extensive network and server management as many other tasks in the IT sector.

“Even

though I myself went straight from school to become an IT expert, for many people the service desk is the first step into the world of information technology. It is possible to get to grips with the job quickly even with a little experience, and it provides a good foundation for progress,” Elke says.

“In this job, how good service you can give customers over the phone makes a concrete difference, and it motivates you to do your best,” Elke points

The work community supports at work and outside “In my previous job, I kept a couple of steps ahead all the time, and work matters were easy to re-

member even after the working day. Here at the Fuengirola Service Centre, most of the work takes place at the office, and the working day typically ends at three o’clock at the end of working hours. After that, there is plenty of time for hobbies and recovery from work,” Elke rejoices.

Barona is the second largest employer after the town of Fuengirola and, according to Elke, has “good rules within which to operate and no decisions”. He feels that the sense of community among those working at Barona’s service centre is strong - together we can overcome even challenging situations.

“The support provided by the work community has been amazing and our team has excellent supervisors. I don’t remember ever in my 40-year career getting as good an orientation as I did when I started here.

“You get good instructions for self-study, and in addition, the atmosphere here is such that anyone who knows about it will tell others about it. It also makes learning on the job easier,” Elke points out.

Norway’s no to au pairs

Linda Hall NORWAY’S government announced that it will no longer grant residence permits for au pairs.

Labour Party MP, Per Vidar Kjolmoen, explained to a TV2 interviewer that what should be a mutually beneficial arrangement was increasingly exploited as a cheap labour source.

“The au pair scheme was supposed to be about cultural exchange,” he said. “It was a way of giving young people the chance of a job and somewhere to live in return for providing help with childcare and housework.”

In Norway, where the average monthly wage reached 56,360 kroner (€4,961) in 2023, an au pair receives 5,900 kroner (€519.36) a month, plus food and accommodation.

She - or he - is supposed to work 30 hours each week with one day off.

This arrangement was not always adhered to, Kjolmoen told TV2.

HOUSEHOLD CHORES: Au pairs often used as cheap servants, Norway said.

Although the legislation came into effect mid February, au pairs currently living in the country with a Norwegian residence permit have two years to conclude the arrangement.

Applicants who had already booked an appointment to present their paperwork to the Norwegian Immigration Directorate (UDI) by March 15, 2024, will still receive a permit.

The new law has not come as a surprise, as Labour minister Marte Mjos Persen announced the measure in March 2023.

“The system is being used to obtain cheap domestic help,” Mjos said.

Peggy Hessen Folsvik, who heads the Norwegian Confederation of Trade Unions agreed at the time that the au pair scheme resulted in exploiting women, citing the 2017 case of a wealthy couple who received a hefty fine and a five-month prison term for abusing au pairs from the Philippines.

“I am simply relieved that this scheme has now been put to an end,” she said to a local newspaper.

INTERVIEW

There’s always joy

BORN in Holland, raised in Antwerp, Amber moved to Dubai to work but would come to Spain on holidays, as her parents had visited Javea for over six years.

Amber’s parents dreamt of moving to Javea for their retirement, and after spending so much time in Spain, she found her second home here.

“I came to Ja vea for a holiday and the holiday never ended. I felt like I was moving to a place that was already familiar.”

Amber has now lived in Ja vea for over two years and is wor king as a real estate agent at Key2Properties: “I know what it’s like to move, searching for property, so I enjoy sharing my experience with people.”

She is currently learning Spanish, infusing her daily life with the language: “I watch Spanish films, listen to Spanish music and talk to people. People here like hearing someone learning Spanish, don’t worry about making mistakes.”

Amber thinks she has finally found happiness in Spain: “I’ve changed so much since I’ve moved here. Seeing the sun every day gives me energy I didn’t have before. There’s always joy. A true happiness.”

Photo credit: Pixabay/Maria Kray

Amber de Rave.

Credit: Amber de Rave

Grape expectations

PLANS for expanding Florence’s airport have taken an intriguing turn with the proposal of adding a 19-acre vineyard on its roof.

Rafael Viñoly Architects, based in the US, presented designs for renovating the airport’s international terminal, which include this unique feature paying homage to Florence’s association with Tuscany, famous for its wine.

While details are still somewhat scarce, the vision outlined by the architects involves a terminal covering 50,000 square metres, topped by a sloping roof adorned with skylights and hosting around 38 rows of grapevines.

This concept is expected to introduce Europe’s first airport vineyard, a rare combination seen previously only at the Halter Ranch vineyard in California, catering to li-

censed pilots and wine enthusiasts. The cultivation and production of wine are likely to be managed onsite, with a spokesperson from Rafael Viñoly Architects mentioning that a respected local winemaker will oversee the vineyard’s care and that

wine production and ageing will occur in specialised cellars beneath the terminal.

The project is set to be executed in two phases, with the first phase scheduled for completion by 2026 and the second phase by 2035.

World of Banksy

John Smith

IF someone asked you what Barcelona, Brussels, Paris, Prague and Rome have in common you could come up with many answers, but probably not this one.

Very simply each of those capital cities boasts a World of Banksy ‘museum’ and they proudly boast that “In the spirit of Banksy’s famously known claim that “Copyright is for losers”, our exhibitions are proudly and openly “100 per cent unauthorised” and have been organised entirely without his involvement.”

Banksy of course is a British grati artist, who is considered one of the main representatives of contemporary street art. His works, often satirical, address universal issues such as politics, culture or ethics.

His work pops up all over the place, mainly in the UK, but he has worked under-cover in many countries and cities including Bethlehem, Calais, Chicago, Jerusalem, Kyiv, Los Angeles, New Orleans and Paris.

The main irony is that although his work tends to be anti-establishment, he has been adopted by the art world, meaning his work is worth a fortune and

even the famous shredded artwork at the infamous Sotheby sale which sold for just over £1 million in 2018 was resold in 2021 for more than £18.5 million.

People ght over the right to remove his gra ti from walls not because they are opposed to gra ti but because they know how much it is going to be worth.

Each of the World of Banksy exhibitions has more than 100 copies of his work, often recreated by other street artists and there are regular pop-up shows in other cities such as Berlin, there is an ongoing tour of his copied work in the USA and iBANKSY is a video examination of his work.

Just one of more than 100 Banksy artworks on display.

Tuscany is famous for its wine.

Car Treasure Hunt

INDULGE in the best Bottomless Brunch experience in Marbella as La Sala Puerto Banus extends its popular promotion to every day of the week.

Whether it’s a midweek treat or a weekend delight, you can now enjoy the fabulous two-course Bottomless Brunch Menu at La Sala from 10am to 2pm, every day. Revel in a delightful spread accompanied by free-flowing Bucks Fizz or Orange Juice for a duration of two hours, all for just €30 each.

Get started with freshly baked croissants and seasonal fresh fruit to share before tucking into the main

event with a choice between La Sala’s fabulous Full English Breakfast, Smoked Salmon with Scrambled Eggs, Three Egg Omelette, American Pancakes, or a wholesome Full Vegan Breakfast.

Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration, hen party, stag party, or a leisurely golfing trip. Make your brunch experience even more special with a Champagne upgrade available for an additional €17.

If you want to book Bottomless Brunch in Marbella, reserve today at: reservations@LaSalaBanus. com or call 952 814 145.

LA CALA LIONS

have organised a Car Treasure Hunt on Sunday March 24. It’s a leisurely drive through the Spanish countryside for just €10 per person (with a halfway pit-stop where drinks and food are available).

There can only be a maximum of 12 cars so, get your tickets from the Charity Shop as booking closes on March 17. Report for the start at 11am and the event starts and ends at Olé’s Restaurant in La Cala de Mijas. Please drive carefully, respect other road users This is not a race so drive slowly!

La Cala Lions Club was formed 26 years ago and has since then,

tirelessly to help the less fortunate locally: feeding families, supporting children needing specialised medical care, paying for equipment to enable children to enjoy many sports played locally, funding educational aids for schools, helping to feed the homeless, animal shelters, and many more associations and charities.

Members are able to serve others through the public’s generosity, supporting their social activities and charity shop. Tickets are available now for this great event with proceeds going to a worthy cause.

Brian Bamford

Photo: Shutterstock / MichielTon

Historic parade

THE seventh edition of the Historical Recreation and Romantic-Liberal period parade ‘Homage to Salvador Manzanares and Pedro Manrique’, will take place on Saturday March 2, through the streets of the historic centre of Estepona. Some 200 people will participate dressed in the costumes of 1831. The parade will take place between 11am and 2.30pm, stopping at 11.30am at the monument

Grease is the word

to Salvador Manzanares in Calle Villa. At midday, the route takes the parade to Plaza del Reloj and at 12.45 to Plaza de las Flores. The cultural association ‘Manzanares Estepona 1831’ works to preserve the cultural heritage of Estepona, particularly the Spanish hero, politician and military leader, Salvador Manzanares, killed and buried in Estepona in the chaotic period following the Napoleonic wars.

THE world’s favourite rock ‘n’ roll musical, Grease, comes to Teatro Salón Varietes in Fuengirola on Thursday March 21 to Sunday March 31, nightly at 7.30pm, Sundays at 7pm, a matinee

Kevin Fraser Park

ESTEPONA is hosting the FAD Andalucian Federation of Darts which will hold the Andalucian Championship of Steel Darts 2024 from Friday March 1 to Sunday March 3, at the Hotel Ona Valle Romano Golf Estepona. The matches will start

performance on Saturday March 23 At 3pm. (there is no performance on March 28 and 29).

The show stars Dylan Perez Gale and Gracie Cooper plus a cameo appearance by John-

Andalucian bullseye

on Friday March 1, at 6pm, with the blind pairs tournament, and at 7pm the selection tournament will begin.

On Saturday March 2, the games will start at 6pm with the teams, and at 7pm with the individual rounds. Finally, on Sunday March 3, at

ny G. Box office hours are 11am to 2.30pm Monday to Friday and one hour before each performance. For more information phone 952 474 542 or email boxoffice@salonvarietes

theatre.com. Grease debuted Off-Broadway on February 14, 1972 at the Eden Theatre in New York City. The show transferred to Broadway’s Broadhurst Theatre, and later to the

9am, the pairs will play, and at midday, the Junior and Baby categories. The awards ceremony will take place between 1pm and 3pm, once the couples championship is over. The event is organised by the Andalucian Federation of Darts with the collaboration of the town council of Estepona

Royale Theatre, closing on April 13, 1980 after a record-breaking 3,388 performances.

The stage show meanwhile has spawned more than 123,000 productions worldwide.

Photo: Wikimedia CC

Photo: Facebook / Manzanares Estepona 1831

TORREMOLINOS has scheduled more than 20 activities to celebrate International Women’s Day.

Always invincible

A concert, exhibitions, a series of workshops and sports activities, are among the proposals and, on Friday March 8, a march will be held under the slogan, ‘Never invisible, always invincible’.

The mayor of Torremo-

linos, Margarita del Cid, together with the councillor for Equality and the Women’s Centre, Francisco García Macías, and the president of the DIMEE Association, Luisa Giráldez, presented the programme planned for the month of March on occasion of International Women’s Day.

“A complete, cross-cutting programming, which starts from a slogan that is an absolute declaration of intent: never invisible, always invincible.”

The main event will take place on Friday March 8 with a march that will start at midday from the town hall to the Pablo Ruiz Picasso Cultural Centre, where a series of awards will be presented to several women in the field of communication.

During the event there will be performances by students of the School of Dramatic Art (ESAD) and the Dance Centre of Torremolinos.

Los Rebeldes

Michael Carrington

FAMOUS Spanish band, Los Rebeldes, have joined the line-up of Locos por la Música (Mad for Music) on Saturday July 20, as the second confirmed band, in this festival of the 80s and 90s to be held at Marenostrum Fuengirola. The legendary band celebrates its 45 years of artistic career with a show of authentic rock and roll and tickets are already on sale at marenostrumfuengir ola.com. “What is considered the rock and roll band par excellence of this country, led by Carlos Segarra, celebrates 45 years on the stages of Spain,” said the Fuengirola councillor for Culture, Rodrigo Romero, who explained that the celebration of its 40th anniversary was partly truncated, like so many other tours, by the pandemic of the co-

ronavirus of 2020. From their meteoric rise in the early 80s to the present day, Los Rebeldes have recorded 15 studio albums and four live albums, as well as performing countless gigs that have made them one of the bands that have travelled the most kilometres in Spain.

During their 45-year career, Los Rebeldes have sold almost a million records and are listed in rock encyclopaedias as the first and most important rockabilly band on the Spanish music scene. It is said that their strength and power lie in their live performances, as in 45 years of history they have never stopped touring. The current band contains the same essence and spirit with which Los Rebeldes were born, and that is what you will be able to see and hear in Fuengirola on July 20.

A great evening

!

Happy birthday from the EWN team

RESPLENDENT in her dress, designed and made by Brian Piccolo, Val Williams celebrated her 85th birthday in style, and the EWN was delighted to be able to present Val with a memento in the form of a framed copy of her birthday wishes as printed in the paper, and, of course, the customary bouquet of flowers.

The setting for this celebration was the wonderful La Sierra Restaurant in Cerros del Aguila, and the restaurant was packed to capacity, a sign of the affection in which Val is held. Acting as Master of ceremo-

nies, Brian made sure that everyone was carried easily through the evening, including adding his own serenade to the proceedings.

Of course, Val’s celebrations would not have been complete without Elvis making an appearance. Val began preparing for his performance last year at a community celebration in Cerros, and he kindly obliged.

The atmosphere was as it should have been, happy, joyful, and everyone ready for a good chat over an excellent dinner washed down amply with refreshments. Over the last

years, Val has not only become an even more well-known character in the Costa del Sol social scene, she has been a tireless fundraiser for good causes.

She didn’t miss the opportunity on her birthday celebrations, with a collecting tin for Last Chance Animal Rescue at the entrance.

Congratulations must also go to Jeremy of La Sierra and his team for the service and the experience for all who attended. Again, from the EWN team, may you see many more, Val Williams.

Photo: Vicky Anderson

Scrap metal motor racing...

Michael Carrington

ON Saturday March 16, Castellar de La Frontera, near Sotogrande, will be the setting for the official start of Chatarras Raid, one of the craziest motor racing events on the European scene. The race will feature 220 vehicles and teams from various countries and consists of 3,000 kilometres and six stages, from the town of Castellar de la Frontera to Marrakech, where it will finish on March 22.

In addition to the delivery by all the participating teams of 10 kilos of basic food products, the Food Bank Campos de Gibraltar, in collaboration with the town council of Castellar de la Frontera and Chatarras Raid, are setting up a special collection point where they invite all people who come to watch the event to collaborate with this charity initiative.

“For us it is important to integrate charity into Chatarras Raid and contri-

bute from this sport to support a good cause. We believe that this gives even more sense to the race, so we want to encourage everyone who wants to contribute their bit to join the ‘soliRALLYdad’ in the collection of food at the start ceremony,” said a spokesperson from Chatarras Raid.

“Any car of any make and model is welcome. The only rule is that cars and vans must be more than 15 years old, and SUVs more than 20 years old. The only thing that matters is to enjoy yourself and try to get to Marrakech in the craziest way possible,” said organisers.

Chatarras Raid has experienced strong growth in recent years and is now one of the most popular events of its type in Europe. The fusion of sport, adventure and fun, as well as a philosophy based on the ‘scrap metal’ concept, have managed to build a community that currently has thousands of followers all over the world.

Sponsored by

Singing for Aspandem

GET ready for a unique evening on Saturday March 16 at 7pm at El Trapiche Cultural Centre in San Pedro Alcantara. The 20th Meeting of Singer-Songwriters will bring a night full of emotions and memorable moments, all in support of Aspandem, the association in favour of people with disabilities on the Costa del Sol.

It will be an opportunity to enjoy good music and let yourselves be carried away by the talent of great artists such as Luis Quintana, Jesus Garriga, Jose Antonio Delgado and Miguel Perez, who will captivate the audience with their art and

passion.

The artists are ready to offer a unique show, with their instruments and their enigmatic voices to start an emotional journey that will awaken senses and immerse everyone in an ocean of sensations.

This is not just a concert, but an experience that invites the audience to connect with music in a unique and profound way. And the best thing is, it’s all in aid of a great cause.

Reserve your place and experience a memorable evening, call Aspendem on 952 787 650, tickets are €15.

Gwledd Dewi Sant ar y Costa del Sol

BENALMADENA

prepares to celebrate the Welsh feast of Saint David at the beginning of March, the biggest festival of the Welsh community in Benalmadena and an event that has been held in the town since 2012.

The St David’s Day events will be held on Friday March 1 in the Plaza de la Mezquita, between 1pm and 10pm,

with food and drink stalls featuring typical Welsh food and drink accompanied by musical performances.

A concert by the famous Welsh choir Cor Meibion Morlais is scheduled for Monday March 4, to be held in the Casa de la Cultura, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost €5, with the proceeds going to the Cudeca Foundation charity. Every year the Welsh Association, through the St David’s

celebration, raises funds for charity. Over the years they have raised more than €22,000.

“We invite everyone to join in the celebration of an important festival for the community of foreign residents in Benalmadena, allowing residents and visitors to get to know their traditions better while supporting a good cause,” said councillor for Tourism and Foreign Residents, Presi Aguilera.

Photo: Facebook / Luis Quintana

Kevin Fraser Park

Photo: Benalmdena Town Hall

Sponsored by

EASTER’S COMING!

Egg battles, Sofia, Bulgaria

THE buildup to Easter in Spain is gaining momentum and little by little the local authorities are planning for Semana Santa. In the meantime, we look at Easter traditions around Europe. Each country has its own traditions: some will be familiar to us, but others may seem quaint or a little quirky. We will bring you up-to-date with the Spanish celebrations as the information comes in, but for now, enjoy Easter around Europe.

Easter food

THE Bulgarian capital boasts the magnificent Aleksander Nevski Cathedral at its heart, offering an unforgettable setting to partake in Orthodox Easter festivities. Similar to many Eastern European nations, the midnight Mass stands out as the pinnacle event: elegantly dressed worshippers gather within churches, enveloped in a blend of prayer and incense smoke, welcoming Easter Sunday (Mass typically commences at 11pm on Easter Saturday).

Following tradition, Bulgaria, along with other Balkan countries, hosts a lively egg-cracking competition the morning after. Families, friends, and church communities engage in friendly rivalry, each member wielding a hardboiled egg in hand. With a single tap,

eggs collide in a test of strength, determining whose shell proves the toughest. Victory signifies a prosperous year ahead, while a shattered egg marks defeat. This cherished tradition ensures a festive and spirited celebration of renewal and vitality.

EASTER in Spain is an important time. Parades and solemn religious observances go handin-hand with music and ritual at this time. Spain is also famous for its culinary arts which usually centre around the sharing of food between family and friends.

these is possibly the ‘Mona de Pascua’ (Easter Cake), which can be seen everywhere. This is a round sponge cake topped with boiled or chocolate eggs and colourful decorations.

Spain.

Credit: https://curatetrips.com

The most famous of

‘Flores fritas’ (fried flowers), are sweet and crunchy with a cookie like texture, found in many bakeries throughout

‘Borrachuelos’ (fried dough), are pieces of dough soaked in wine or brandy and dusted with powdered sugar. The name is derived from the word ‘borracho’, which means ‘drunk’ in Spanish!

‘Bacalao’ (cod) in pilpil sauce was particularly popular in the past during

Lent, since fish was the only flesh that people could eat. Oil from the fish is released during cooking then whisked with olive oil and vinegar to form a rich, thick sauce.

Lastly, ‘Torrijas’ (French Toast ) is a Spanish version of the French classic, dusted with cinnamon and sugar.

A summer of Jazz

Sohail Jazz

Marenostrum Fuengirola with Kurt Rosenwinkel and Telmary on July 4 and 5 and tickets are already on sale now at https://marenostrumfuengirola.com

This was announced by the councillor responsible, Rodrigo Romero, who said that, “Every year we receive a large number of artists and musical styles to offer attendees a variety worthy of excellence. This summer 2024, the stage at Sohail Castle will see two great international artists: Kurt Rosenwinkel with his new show ‘The Next Step Reunion’, on July 4; and Telmary with Habanasana for July 5.” The American composer, multi-instrumentalist, bandleader and producer Kurt Rosenwinkel has more than 30 years of experience in composing and performing and will visit Marenostrum Fuengirola for the first time with his voice and guitar. The artist is considered among the best guitarists in the world. On July 5, the leading street poet at the forefront of hip-hop and urban music in Cuba and the fresh and vibrant sound of the Habanasana collective will share the Fundación Unicaja stage. A unique performance that fuses traditional Cuban rhythms with the dynamism of contemporary hip-hop.

David Hart

THE

Festival returns to

Photo: Kurt Rosenwinkel

Sponsored by

Exhibiting local talent

Michael Carrington

THE Casa de la Cultura of Fuengirola is hosting a painting exhibition ‘Maktub’ by Yurdana Ríos until March 31 with free admission.

“This is a new painting exhibition with an artist from Fuengirola, Yurdana Ríos who has spent her whole life dedicated to drawing every time she has a pencil and paper in

front of her”, said Coun cillor Rodrigo Romero who opened the exhibi tion.

Yurdana Ríos, “draws in oils, she also draws in pencil; she likes realism, and above all she likes to characterise and draw characters. So we are going to be able to enjoy a new exhibition where once again we are betting on local talent” added Romero.

Inspired by nature

THERE’S a new exhibition of paintings by the artist Ana Villalobos in room 2 of the Casa de Las Tejerinas, located in Estepona’s Plaza de las Flores, which can be visited free of charge until March 6.

The pictorial exhibition, which consists of 15 works all inspired by nature, is open Tuesday to Friday, from 9am to 8pm, and Saturdays from 9am to 2pm and from 4pm to 8pm.

Ana Villalobos was born in Barcelona, and discovered, at an early age, a passion for art and, specifically, for painting. Although she had no academic training she always felt the need to express herself through art.

Born in Fuengirola, Yurdana Ríos is a lover of art in all its aspects. With a degree in Dramatic Art in Sevilla, she always takes advantage of any kind of paper to draw on. Her techniques are oil and pencil, although what she really enjoys most is drawing in pencil.

“I prefer a realistic drawing but without losing the unique essence that this technique provides. As art calls for art, I find inspiration in films, series, scenes and phrases that move me so much inside that I need to capture them. I can’t explain very well why I paint what I paint. I just know that I couldn’t live without it,” said the artist.

When she was still very young, she moved to Estepona with her family for work reasons, where she has lived for more than 30 years. During that time she combined painting with part-time education and her work and family life. But it has been a few years since she found the time to devote herself to full time painting.

Throughout her life she has worked with different painting techniques, but it is oil at the beginning and acrylic at present, the techniques with which she feels most comfortable.

The artist also finds in the female portrait a source of inspiration, which she reflects in most of her works. She also works on recycled surfaces, such as cardboard, wood, cork or feather cardboard, which she mixes with other arts such as decoupage or collage.

Photo: Fuengirola Town Hall

Personal support network?

WHEN I was thinking about the content for this article I mused that it might be a little self indulgent as it focused on my personal support network - but then we all have to start a story somewhere.

My wife Sally and I were embarking on a special holiday cruise taking in Eastern Australia and New Zealand. All was going well until we reached our final destination, Auckland, when I started to feel unwell.

What I thought was a cold turned out to be acute bronchitis and when we arrived back home I went to bed for the next 10 days. Sally nursed me day and night and when family and friends found out that I was ill, she was constantly taking calls from well-wishers.

I want to draw your attention to the incredible work of Age Concern

Marbella-San Pedro.

Through them I joined Helicopteros Sanitarios the home doctor service.

As an Age Concern Member we get a special discount which means we both have access to a doctor 24 hours a days for the cost of a single cup of tea each day.

Age Concern also operate an amazing Helpline which is open five days a week from 10am

to 6.00pm. So please put this number in your phone book, Age Concern Marbella Helpline 689 355 198.

Or why not pop in to one of our regular local coffee mornings where it’s so easy to catch up with old friends and make new ones.

There is so much help that is readily accessible which means that before you know it you’ve established your own personal support network.

Sponsored

Alhaurin Rock

THE Vites Association, in collaboration with the Council of El Portón, has launched the second edition of the contest Alhaurin Rock 2024 Awards, with the aim of promoting new talent in the province of Malaga. With this objective, Alhaurin Rock 2024, will feature a performance by the three finalist groups or bands. It will be held on Saturday June 8, on the stage of the Municipal Park Mirador de Bellavista where the group Malavé will also perform.

Participants must include a photo of the band or group and one or two URL links to a YouTube or Vimeo, where you can view and listen to the songs of the band or artist. They must contain original songs of the band or group and may or may not include a video clip.

The requirements to qualify for the contest are that at least one of the band’s members has Spanish nationality or residence; that at least one is registered in Malaga Province; that they do not have a multinational recording contract in force before March 14; that they have a repertoire fully prepared to be performed live of not less than 40 minutes of which at least 20 must be original compositions.

The jury, composed of four people, will select the three finalists according to the criteria: interpretative quality, innovation, compositional creativity and projection. For Andrés García this initiative was a success last year and that is why the prizes have increased: the first classified will receive €1,200 plus the recording of a song in the Impala Recording Studio, located in Mestanza. The second prize wins € 600 and the third €400.

Open from Tuesday to Saturday, dinner only.

Kitchen open from 1 8.30 to 23.30, last ord ers 23:00.

Ever y night with

Phone: 952 888 077

Phone: 670 604 392

Michael Carrington

THE Andalucia Performing Arts Society (TAPAS) has organised a ‘Gentle Walking Group’ on Wednesday March 6, starting at 11am from the Periurbano Urique park in Alhaurin el Grande (near Finca La Mota).

The cost is a €2 donation which goes to the group’s charities including Asociación Huellas Terapéuticas a non-profit association that provides dog-assisted interventions for children with functional diversity, the elderly and others.

They help many people to promote social inclusion and achieving autonomy.

The TAPAS group meet every Wednesday morning for a charity walk with different locations each week and, depending on the route, usually pets are very welcome.

For further information please contact 685 386 923.

Photo: pxhere CC

Photo: Alhaurin Town Hall

PROPERTY SPECIAL THE

Costa del Sol

IN 2024, purchasing property on the Costa del Sol remains an attractive prospect for many individuals seeking a slice of Mediterranean paradise. The region, situated in the southern part of Spain, continues to be renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and excellent climate, making it a desirable destination for both vacationers and those considering permanent residence.

The Costa del Sol property market in 2024 is marked by a diverse range of options, catering to various preferences and budgets. From luxurious beachfront villas to modern apartments in bustling coastal towns, there is something for everyone. Investors and homebuyers can explore areas like Marbella, Estepona, and Malaga, each offering

a unique blend of amenities and charm.

Purchasing property

The real estate market on the Costa del Sol has seen steady growth, driven by both domestic and international demand. With a reputation for excellent infrastructure, healthcare, and educational facilities, the region has become particularly appealing to retirees, expatriates, and investors looking for a stable market.

In terms of pricing, the Costa del Sol’s property market can be diverse. Luxury properties with panoramic sea views and high-end amenities may command a premium, while more affordable options can be found in the inland areas or smaller coastal towns. Additionally, favourable financing options and a competitive mortgage market

enhance the accessibility of property ownership for potential buyers.

Legal considerations are crucial when purchasing property in Spain, and it is advisable to engage the services of a local lawyer to navigate the intricacies of the process. With a well-established and transparent legal framework, the Costa del Sol offers a secure environment for property transactions.

As the region continues to evolve, the Costa del Sol in 2024 presents an enticing opportunity for those looking to invest in a Mediterranean lifestyle, combining modern conveniences with the timeless allure of Spain’s southern coast.

Benahavis top

Three Costa del Sol towns are the most expensive in Spain according to Idealista.

IN the latest assessment of the Spanish property market by real estate portal Idealista for the last quarter of 2023, Andalucia stands out particularly Benahavís, Marbella and Estepona, all of which have significantly high prices compared to the rest of the country.

Benahavis tops the list with an impressive average price of €2.21 million, followed by Marbella with €1.49 million and Estepona with €608,600, with the region standing out for its luxury market, especially on the Costa del Sol. At a national level, the property market shows a trend of high demand in locations on the outskirts of large cities, with Las Rozas de Madrid leading the way with an average price of €590,200.

Valencia, with an average price of €248,250, and the Canary Island capitals of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, with prices of €248,850 and €255,400 respectively, reflect the diversity of the market and demand in different regions of Spain. These figures contrast with the high prices in the Andalucian real estate market.

The comparison reveals a varied Spanish market, where demand is distributed in both peripheral urban areas and luxury coastal areas. Andalucia, with its prominent luxury centres of population, is positioned in a higher segment of the market, attracting buyers and investors interested in exclusive, high-value properties, while other regions show a different dynamic, with a greater concentration of demand in accessible suburban areas and provincial capitals.

Making dreams come true!

IT is true that many people are desperate to become property owners in Spain, not just for the investment potential, but to have a home away from home in the place of their dreams.

But, of course, not everyone’s budget can stretch to a beautiful villa in an exclusive area, or closed community. Investing in an apartment is still a very good option. Buying through a reputable agent and using a good locally based lawyer is still highly recommended. Countless numbers of people have had great experiences through their purchase of an apartment in communities and there are some advantages to this.

Many communities on the Costa del Sol have a high number of foreign residents, some living full time and some part time. Communities can be very friendly places where people can share their knowledge and experiences of the area, help to solve problems, explain what the role of the Community Administrator

is, and provide you with useful contacts and recommendations for builders, plumbers, or equipment suppliers which you may need.

useful

Your neighbours can also give you hints about keeping cool in the summer and warm in the winter, where to go shopping, find Spanish lessons: the list is endless. There are some luxurious apartments available on the Costa in beautifully kept communities, so having budget restrictions doesn’t mean you can’t make your dreams a reality.

Buying in a community with other foreigners around can make a simpler transition to your new home when a lack of Spanish may be a hindrance. English is still the most widely spoken foreign language among the international community regardless of where they come from. Prices of apartments are rising in relation to the overall increase in property prices on the Costa del Sol, so it is still a great investment.

Licensed to rent

ANDALUCIA recently approved legislation which will give local councils the power to restrict the number of short-term holiday rentals in ‘saturated’ areas.

In order to avoid being caught up in this growing regulation of the market, it is essential that property owners who already rent their homes to holidaymakers (or intend to do so), make sure that they are up to date with all the legislation. And that starts with the tourist licence.

The procedure is relatively simple; many property owners use the services of specialist firms who know their way around the legislation while others go it alone. The important thing to remember is that failure to comply with the law can leave property owners exposed to the possibility of hefty fines from €2,000 up to €150,000.

The application for a tourist licence, once successful, culminates with the registration of the property in the tourist register of Andalucia. Whether the property is in Mijas, Marbella or Manilva the steps to take are the same but, before you start this is what you are going to need:

Documents:

• Licence of first occupation

• Title deed

• Latest IBI receipt

Property must have:

• Ventilation

• Adequate furniture

• AC and heating

• First aid kit

• Tourism information

• Complaints forms

• Cleaning on arrival and departure

• Bed linen and kitchenware

• Contact number

• Instructions for appliances

• Energy efficiency certificate

• Civil liability insurance

Once you have your Tourist Licence you need to register your property with the Local Police as you are required to submit ID details of each guest over 16 years of age.

If you plan to rent out your property, secure your tourist licence now and help keep the market transparent and well-regulated.

Developments streamlined

ANDALUCIA has taken a giant step forward in speeding up the processing of urban development projects

the

.

The Junta de Andalucia is taking another step forward in its bid to simplify the enormous administrative procedures faced by numerous urban development projects in the region. A decision which, pending further developments, should have a major impact on the province of Malaga, a major real estate reference point.

Particularly relevant in this context are the changes introduced to lighten environmental authorisations, one of the major bottlenecks facing urban development procedures. The Junta’s move will allow, according to its report, 40 per cent of the environmental authorisations to be resolved in a simplified manner.

Among the most important measures are the updating of the Law on Integrated Environmental Quality Management (GICA), the streamlining of procedures, the adaptation of the entire regulatory framework (including the system of environmental authorisations) and the implementation of a one-stop shop model for environmental procedures.

“With all of this, the processing of metropolitan transport, urban developments and industrial projects will be improved,” a spokesperson for the regional government said, adding that these actions will reduce the time taken to process applications from eight to five months.

million massive construction plans €600

MALAGA is the province with the most housing projects completed at the end of 2023 and has over €600 million of new construction currently underway.

The largest investment for housing completed in 2023 was in Marbella followed by Malaga City. Marbella had new builds completed in 2023 to a

value of €160 million compared to Malaga with €140 million.

In the opinion of the Architects of Malaga in the province, during 2023 there has been a “consolidation” in the pace of construction with a return to the figures of the years prior to the real estate crisis.

Almost every national and

many international developers are involved in construction projects in and around the Marbella area together with many smaller developers with projects of two or three properties.

The location with the most projects currently underway, is Mijas with 76 projects approved and a budget of

almost €140 million over a surface area of over 200,000 square metres. Projects currently being developed in Marbella amount to €290 million, €136 million in Mijas and €85.5 million in Benahavis. In the capital, there are 125 projects already approved with a total budget of €100 million.

However, the Architects’ Association has once again pointed out the scarcity of finished or ongoing subsidised housing, with only one project underway in the capital. In the rest of the province, for the time being, there are no new developments of subsidised housing, nor are they expected.

COSTA del Sol is an area of contrasts, including the real estate market.

€80,000 to €38 million

RESALES ONLINE is the database used by the majority of agents on the Costa del Sol and, as at the beginning of February 2024, there were 12,724 properties listed for sale. Average prices don’t tell the whole story though as there are several extremes.

At one end of the scale, the cheapest property currently for sale is a one-bedroom studio in Benalmadena Costa for €81,500 and, excluding garages and plots of land, there are just 83 properties currently for sale on the Costa del Sol for less than €150,000. Of course, if you are looking for a 30 square metre parking space in Estepona there’s one for you at €55,000.

Contrast that with over 600 properties currently available for sale with an asking price in excess of €5,000,000. And that includes a 2,000 square metre villa on the Mijas beachfront for €38,000,000, the most expensive property on the database.

Often referred to as the most luxurious Villa on the Costa del Sol, the property has 10 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms and 7,000 sqm of beautifully landscaped gardens overlooking the Mediterranean.

Royalty, Presidents, Billionaires, Sheiks and Superstars have graced its beautiful rooms. Even the boy band ‘One Direction’ gave their début performance here in the X Factor ‘judges homes’ episode. We imagine you’ll be getting your cheque book out immediately for that one!

Photo: Facebook / Villa Moana

SVENSK HEMSERVICE

SVENSK HEMSERVICE are a company, located in Fuengirola, that cares about each and every one of their clients. They offer a high level of personal engagement and a value for all customers, whether their requests be small or large. They cater for many nationalities and are accustomed to helping people from all over the world find, and love, their new life in Spain.

Svensk Hemservice are fluent in Swedish, English and Spanish.

However, this Swedish home assistance company can actually do much more than just help you manage the tasks of daily life and to perfect the household, they can also start by finding you your perfect home, right here on the sunny coast of Spain. Johan is the co-owner of the company and an experienced property expert who manages all of the Svensk Hemservice real estate proceedings. He has recently

created his own unique application that can be downloaded onto your smartphone which has been designed especially for buyers and renters that are interested in the Costa del Sol area.

He has many years of practical experience in the real estate industry and is committed to finding the perfect fit for each and every one of his clients. Svensk

Hemservice will assist you throughout the entire process of buying your new home, from finding a property that suits your unique needs, to purchasing, and complete management of local taxes, not forgetting of course the best part, moving in!

They provide their clients with the essential local contacts regarding lawyers and banks with whom they have extremely

good relations and experiences. Svensk Hemservice will ensure that you get settled in your new home in the sun as quickly and smoothly as possible. They take care of all the hard work and hassle, so that you can focus on the important thing: enjoying your new dream life in Spain. They can also help you to find properties to be rented for a short or longer periods, in order to try out living everyday life on the beautiful Costa del Sol before deciding to buy a property here, and moving out permanently. Svensk Hemservice have a wide network of contacts and properties on the coast, alongside a deep and thorough understanding of the current real estate figures and trends in the area. Their committed staff possess the language and personal skills needed to ensure you get the best possible deal on your new home.

To take the first step to a new adventure on the Costa del Sol, or for any more information on the services Svensk Hemservice can offer, contact Johan on +34 622 664 237 and have a chat today about how he can assist you in any of your real estate needs. Alternatively, email Johan at johan@svenskhemservice.com

Meet property expert Johan

EURO WEEKLY NEWS sat down with the man behind the magic of the Svensk Hemservice real estate service. Johan is originally from Sweden and has been living on the Costa del Sol for a number of years working in the real estate business. Johan is not only committed to providing an impeccable property finding experience, but he is also deeply passionate about his work too.

Johan explained to EWN that he has been working in real estate for many years and specialising in the Costa del Sol area since 2019. He stated that: “I am lucky, because I can help people find their dream home, to start a new life. Each time that I succeed at this it means that I not only reached my goal, but also my client’s too. I am grateful that I get the opportunity to meet new people and learn about them, at the same time learning how to help my clients even better. I believe we can always become better

as people and as real estate agents.”

We asked this real estate expert what makes the Costa del Sol area so special in terms of buying a property. Johan explained that: “The market in Costa del Sol is special because it covers a lot of land, and people from all over the world find themselves living or wanting to live here. You can always find your place, either at the beach or in the mountains or in a city, and the properties are from one bedroom apartments to a mansion or a big farm inland.”

Another question that many are surely curious about, is whether or not this is a good time to buy, and what the coast can expect from Costa del Sol’s property market in 2024. He told us, “Yes, during 2024 we can expect the market to point upwards, especially down here on the coast and many people are always looking for a great property in the area.”

Finally, we asked Johan what advice he would give to anyone who wants to buy a home in Spain but does not know where to start. He said his best advice would be: “Think about what you need in terms of size, easy access, views and whether you are looking to be close to the airport or other public transport services.

“You also need to think about if you are looking for a holiday home, investment or to a new start in life. Concentrate on one area, or it will be too much input. Go on holiday and get a feel for different places, and since the market is fluent don’t go looking at a property until you are ready to buy, otherwise it will be gone next time you come here.”

C. José Cubero Yiyo, 3, 29640 Fuengirola, Málaga 622 664 237 johan@svenskhemservice.com svenskhemservice.com

We support you all the way

WITT ESPAÑA ESTATES is a real estate agency with Danish and Austrian roots, consisting of the owner Tobber Witt along with Cemil Kantur. Our passion lies in embracing the Spanish lifestyle, culture, and the incredible sunny weather that graces this region.

As fellow homeowners on the Costa del Sol, we understand the excitement and challenges of finding your dream home. Drawing from our own experiences and expertise in the real estate industry, we are always eager to share valuable insights with you.

As your trusted buyer agents on the Costa del Sol, we prioritise your satisfaction and ensure you are in safe hands. Whether you seek guidance on property purchases or assistance in finding a home on the Costa del Sol, we are fully prepared to guide you throughout the entire process. Our most important task is to guide you and provide the necessary buyer advice throughout. Providing a secure, and seamless experience based on a real and honest relationship.

We will go above and beyond to help you find the exact property you envision, negotiating the best possible price on your behalf. Although what you think is perfect might be different than you first assumed.

Having worked as real estate agents in Costa del Sol for many years, our knowledge of the entire Costa del Sol is unparalleled. Whether you are searching for a holiday retreat, investment opportunity, or a permanent residence, we are dedicated to guiding you in finding a property that aligns with your requirements

and price range. But remember haste is a burden - it will hardly be sold out

As agents living in Costa del Sol, we can be your eyes down here and access a wide range of properties for sale on the Costa del Sol. From distressed sales to luxurious homes, we collaborate closely with local real estate agents and banks along the South Coast. This allows us to present you with Spanish resale properties at reduced prices, as well as new developments designed in a Scandinavian style, with spacious terraces and

breathtaking sea views.

Are you ready to embark on the journey of finding your dream home on the Costa del Sol? We are here to support you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable process. We eagerly anticipate learning more about the type of property you are looking for.

Throughout the years we have built up a large range of network, being able to help with anything from the idea of finding a home/ holiday home/investment all the way to purchase and beyond … Because we’re also there for

you after the signature, if it’s for help with rentals, renovation or whatever questions you may have.

Buying a Townhouse or Apartment on the coast

WHEN considering the purchase of a townhouse or apartment on the Costa del Sol, it’s essential to navigate the real estate market with care and consideration. Start by defining your budget and preferred location, whether it’s the vibrant Marbella, charming Estepona, or any other picturesque coastal town.

Research is key; explore various neighbourhoods, amenities, and nearby attractions. Assess your lifestyle needs and determine whether you prefer a beachfront property, golf course views, or proximity to city centres. Engage with local real estate agents who specialise in the Costa del Sol market; their expertise can guide you through available options and negotiations. Consider property types, such as new developments, resale units, or offplan purchases. Understand the associated costs, including property taxes, community fees, and maintenance expenses. Legalities are crucial, so ensure all paperwork is in order and consult with a local lawyer to navigate Spanish real estate laws.

Visit prospective properties to assess their condition and ambiance. Evaluate the community vibe and facilities, such as pools, gyms, and security measures. Lastly, be patient and vigilant throughout the process, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice to make an informed decision. With diligence and research, finding the perfect townhouse or apartment on the Costa del Sol can be a rewarding investment in your dream Mediterranean lifestyle.

INTRODUCTION

High quality craftsmanship combined with functionality and a modern look are key factors for the international furniture chain BoConcept.

“BoConcept is a very strong international concept with more than 250 units around the world and with their knowledge of design, service and high quality furniture we are proud to open up a store which will inspire anybody who has a desire for modern furniture,” explains owner, Jan Petersen.

The interest in furniture with roots in the Scandinavian design tradition is increasing and BoConcept with its origin in Denmark in 1952 has a long tradition for producing and designing modern furniture with respect for its strong design heritage.

“We are really looking forward to welcoming all design lovers to our new fantastic BoConcept store,” explains store manager, Susanne Brant.

BOCONCEPT CONCEPT

One of BoConcept’s strong competencies is customisation. “Our customers have different needs and tastes, and a new piece of furniture has to have measurements and functionality that fits with our customer. Therefore, most of the furniture we sell is customised,” explains Jan. The variations are almost endless. When it comes to sofas the choice is between different modules, armrests, legs and of

ADVERTISING FEATURE

course leathers and fabrics. And even wall systems, tables, chairs and beds are based on this intelligent modular design.

INTRODUCTION

Since 2007, PlusStore has been providing the best of Scandinavian and European design to it’s customers on the Costa del Sol. PlusStore is a store within a store located on the top floor of the BoConcept Malaga showroom in Mijas.

“At PlusStore, we strive to give you an exceptional shopping experience - from the moment you walk into our store until the last piece of furniture is delivered and assembled in your home. Your satisfaction is always our priority,” explains Susanne.

PLUSSTORE CONCEPT

Knowing everyone has different needs and budgets, we want to help you find the best solution. For example, you might want a customised interior design solution: we will work with you to tailor our wide range of furniture and accessories to your needs. We will show you what the furniture will look like in your space and provide you with a collage, 3D views and a floor plan. Our interior design service is always free of charge. PlusStore offers a variety of different brands, each special in it’s own way. We urge customers to mix and match, to create a unique, unified look for their home.

Here you can find Carl Hansen, Fritz Hansen, Louis Poulsen, Montana, HAY, Hilding Anders, Cane-line, plenty of styles, views and examples, so the client can have too many different possibilities for interior decoration.

“The idea which represents PlusStore Mijas, Marbella and Puerto Banús is to offer the customer a high quality interior design, durable and guaranteed, offering the best products, from the best brands and with best designs; giving them the opportunity to create, combine and design their own space from the variety of products and brands that we offer.”

Carr. de Mijas, KM. 3, 5, 29650 Mijas, Malaga 951 242 092 | malaga@boconcept.es

Maintenance !

PROPERTY maintenance offers a multitude of benefits that contribute to the longevity, value, and overall well-being of a property. First and foremost, regular maintenance helps prevent costly repairs by addressing minor issues before they escalate into major problems. This proactive approach not only saves money but also ensures the property remains in good condition.

Furthermore, consistent property maintenance enhances the aesthetic appeal of the property. Well-maintained buildings and landscapes create a positive impression, attracting potential buyers or tenants and increasing the property’s market value. Additionally, a properly maintained property provides a safe and secure environment for its occupants, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.

Property maintenance also plays a crucial role in energy efficiency. Regular checks and upgrades to essential systems, such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, contribute to lower utility costs and a smaller environmental footprint. Moreover, well-maintained properties are more resilient to natural disasters and weather-related damage, minimising the risk of extensive and costly repairs.

In summary, property maintenance is an essential investment that pays off in various ways, from cost savings and increased property value to creating a safe and aesthetically pleasing living or working environment. Maintenance of a property typically falls under the responsibilities of property owners or landlords. However, some real estate agents may offer additional services or have connections with professionals in the industry who can help with property maintenance.

If you need assistance with property maintenance, it’s advisable to clarify this with your real estate agent upfront or discuss it with your property management company if you have one. Some real estate agents work closely with property management firms that can handle maintenance tasks on behalf of property owners. Alternatively, your agent might be able to recommend reliable contractors or maintenance services to assist you.

Martinez Echevarria Law Offices

Quality and professional excellence for companies, families and individuals in Spain and Portugal.

MARTÍNEZ-ECHEVARRÍA provides both legal advice as well as litigation services in Spain, Portugal and Turkey for companies, families and individuals.

The firm was founded in 1983, striving for quality and professional excellence. Today, these cornerstones on which the law firm was built remain as strong as ever. Martínez-Echevarría has always been known for our strong commitment to achieving our clients’ objectives and meeting their expectations.

Martínez-Echevarría is currently comprised of just over 250 professionals and can be considered a modern office, fully adapted and prepared to meet the most demanding needs of national and international companies operating in Spain and Portugal. In addition, our private client department does not forget those who, despite not being in the corporate world, require quality legal services adapted to their needs for their family and personal matters.

What we offer

We strive to offer the best legal advice, making it accessible to everyone. Each department is led by coordinating partners who are highly specialised in their area of expertise, who are also Attorneys General, prosecutors, judges, magistrates, professors or lawyers with proven and successful experience at the highest professional level in international legal advice.

Real Estate and Urban Planning

A team of highly specialised lawyers will advise you on the negotiation, drafting or review of all contracts relating to the different areas in the real estate sector, both on the acquisition or transfer of the property, as well as on its

different phases of development.

Our advice covers all types of property, plots (rural and urban), residential (free and subsidised housing), industrial, offices, commercial premises, shopping centres, hotels, residences for students and for the elderly and golf courses. Development and construction

• Acquisition of plots for development

• Real estate, town planning, tax and environmental due diligence

• Professional service agreements with project management, architects and technical architects

• Construction contracts with supply of materials

• Bank financing of the project. Guarantee line. Ten-year insurance policy and OCT

• Deed of new build under construction, horizontal division, division of plots of land

• Contracts for marketing homes with real estate agencies

• Compliance with money laundering regulations

• Reservation and sales contracts

• Work completion deed for the complex and for each

Prices on the rise

THE price of new housing in Malaga Province in 2023 led the growth of prices, not only in the whole Mediterranean coast of the country, but at the level of the whole of Spain, according to a new report prepared by Sociedad de Tasación (ST).

The capital and several municipalities on the Costa del Sol are confirmed for yet another year as areas of very high demand. The shortage of supply is one of the factors keeping prices high despite the fact that the rise in interest rates has cooled the market by reducing the number of sales and purchases, according to ST’s analysis.

The shortage of stock is a particular problem in

individual property

• First Occupation Licence

• Title deeds

• Housing delivery protocol

Purchase and sale of real estate and real estate companies

• Due diligence

• Off-plan buying and selling

• Study of direct and indirect taxation

• Bank and non-bank project finance, refinancing, restructuring of mortgage-backed debt

• Groupings, segregations and divisions

• Rectification of surface areas in the Land Registry

• Town planning, development and management

• Administrative concessions

Leases

• Home rental; holiday rental

• Registration of properties with the tourism Board for holiday rental

• Leasing for uses other than housing, commercial premises, offices, shopping centres, industrial buildings, management of residences (for the elderly and for students), hotel management

Communities of Homeowners

• Creation of Communities of Homeowners with the drafting of by-laws and internal regulations, where appropriate

+34 952 765 000 info@martinezechevarria.com martinezechevarria.com

locations with a strong tourist influence which, of course, includes Malaga and the Costa del Sol.

According to spainhouses.net, the most affordable area to buy property on the Costa del Sol is Manilva which includes the popular location of La Duquesa.

The average price of property in the three most economical locations are: Manilva with an average price of €388,356; Torremolinos at €489,088 and Fuengirola at €614,211.

These are current asking prices so actual

sales prices are likely to be lower.

Looking at secondhand properties, there are currently 42 apartments for sale in Manilva for €200,000 or under. At the other end of the Costa del Sol, nearer to Malaga and the airport, there are just under 100 properties for sale in the €100,000 to €200,000 price bracket in Mijas, Fuengirola, Benalmadena and Torremolinos.

So, although you might have to do a bit of digging (or get your agent to do it for you), there are still affordable homes to be found.

German Quality for Your Kitchen

FOR those seeking a certain and special level of quality in kitchen design, Novo Küchen is your ideal destination. Our commitment lies in offering you the best, from living and experiencing to touching the perfect finishes of our German kitchens, from the prestigious Häcker brand. At Novo Küchen, we understand that your kitchen is the heart of your home, and that’s why we strive to provide winning kitchens where you and your loved ones are the protagonists.

What sets us apart from the rest? The answer lies in our constant pursuit of the latest innovations in the market to ensure that our kitchens are always at the forefront. In addition, our extensive catalogue, endorsed by the German manufacturer Häcker, ensures that you find the personalised and attentive solution for the most important place in your home: the kitchen. At Novo Küchen, we pride ourselves not only on offering high-quality German kitchens, but also on committing to a manufacturing concept that combines stateof-the-art technology, impeccable aesthetics, superior performance, and a values-focused approach in all our customer interactions.

The name Häcker Küchen is synonymous with reliability, modernity, and quality at fair prices. Our strong position in the market is due to the capability of our sales and production units, as well as the development of innovative products that adapt to current times, backed by the excellent quality that characterises our products. If you’re ready to transform your kitchen into a unique space where you can enjoy and share everyday moments, contact us today!

A buyers’ guide to property U

THERE is no doubt that one of the most exciting times in a person’s life is the purchase of a home whether it’s a permanent home in the sun or somewhere to spend holidays. Although it is an exciting moment, it is important not to get carried away by emotions and to be rational when making the purchase.

In order to make the right decision when buying a home, it is important to bear in mind a number of issues. Firstly, the most advisable thing to do is to know the price of the property in order to choose one that best fits the budget.

Thanks to RealAdvisor and its use of Artificial Intelligence you can find out the price of property in Andalucia via the website: realadvisor.es.

Beyond the price, there are other factors to take into account though starting with the location of the property. A better located property is a more expensive property, but it does not have to be especially better for you. Consider whether you really need to be walking distance to the beach as that will push the price up.

As well as the location of the property, you should also consider the size: don’t

buy a property that is bigger than you need, as you will be spending money on something you won’t use.

Before buying a property, make sure you know first-hand the condition of the property especially if it’s second-hand. Bear in mind that renovation costs in Spain are almost certainly lower than you might be used to. Also, if the property is part of a community check the urbanisation; if it looks run-down there might be problems with its funds.

Finally, assess whether there are any related costs associated with the property and there are no debts as these will pass to the new owner. Check the costs related to the purchase: in Andalucia you will pay 7 per cent stamp duty and in total, to include lawyers’ fees and notary costs, you should allow 9-10 per cent for a second-hand home and 13-14 per cent for a new property.

Keeping all these aspects in mind and trying to stick to your budget will allow you to make the right decision when buying your home. That way, you can be sure that you have made a good investment and that you are getting what you paid for.

Photo: Shutterstock /Andrey_Popov

Discover custom comfort with Paul Phillip Custom Sofas

PAUL PHILLIP is a firm dedicated to the bespoke manufacturing of furniture, specialising in the production of sofas, thus meeting the needs of our clients. With the expertise of top professionals in the decoration sector, we provide comprehensive projects. We cover a wide variety of products ranging from living room and dining furniture, through to bedrooms, and outdoor furnishings, without forgetting the needs of professionals in the hospitality sector. We always strive to adapt to all types of budgets and styles. Therefore, our main objective is to assist in fulfilling the wishes of our clients, to have the home of their dreams. It is an honour to be included in their life projects. There are so many stories...

Couples purchasing their first home and needing to furnish it, families requiring a larger sofa as they grow, individuals deciding to take the leap of leaving their childhood home and facing a completely new world, partners opting to start a business and relying on us for that new venture... but all share something in common, hope for the future. And we are pleased to be part of that future. This challenging task is made possible thanks to over 25 years of experience we have in the industry. Our manufacturing process is artisanal, carried out by the finest experts and using the best raw materials: solid woods, stain-resistant fabrics, thickened leather, German motors, highdensity memory foam...

Continuing with the spirit of helping to fulfill dreams, we have decided to launch a promotion subject to limited units, offering up to a 40 per cent discount. The promotion includes the complete customisation of sofas, with measurements, format, choice of fabric and colour, selection of legs, and the addition of extras such as massage, electric relaxation, music system... Ultimately, a unique sofa, designed exclusively to satisfy the desires of each individual.

Marbella remains a symbol of International Prestige

If you want to give your home a makeover come and visit us

C.C. Los Olivos, Unit 1, 29649, Calahonda, Málaga 608 245 517

Email: losolivos.paulphillip@gmail.com

Opening hours:

Monday - Friday Morning: 10:00-14:00. Afternoon: 16:00-19:00.

Saturday10:00-14:00.

The Marbella Luxury Weekend and the Marbella International Film Festival draw high-profile attendees, solidifying the city’s position on the global stage. These gatherings not only celebrate luxury but also contribute to Marbella’s reputation as a destination of choice for the discerning.

MARBELLA, ensconced on the sun-drenched Costa del Sol, retains its stature as an enduring symbol of international prestige. The city’s allure is multifaceted, combining a rich historical tapestry with contemporary opulence, creating a haven for those seeking the epitome of luxury living. The Old Town, with its narrow winding streets, showcases Marbella’s historical charm. Centuries-old architecture, adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, creates a picturesque setting where the past seamlessly intertwines with the present. This historic ambiance is complemented by chic boutiques, art galleries, and Michelin-starred

restaurants, reflecting Marbella’s evolution into a cosmopolitan destination.

The Golden Mile, an iconic stretch of coastline, exemplifies the city’s opulence. Lined with lavish villas, high-end boutiques, and exclusive beachfront properties, this enclave has become synonymous with affluence. It is a playground for the global elite, attracting celebrities, entrepreneurs, and royalty who seek refuge in its luxurious surroundings.

Marbella’s international prestige is further accentuated by its hosting of world-class events.

The allure extends beyond events, encompassing a vibrant nightlife, championship golf courses, and a flourishing cultural scene. Puerto Banus, an internationally renowned marina, stands as a testament to Marbella’s commitment to providing a sophisticated lifestyle. Lined with upscale shops, gourmet restaurants, and super-yachts, Puerto Banus exemplifies the city’s dedication to offering unparalleled experiences.

Marbella’s upscale resorts, such as the Marbella Club Hotel and Puente Romano Beach Resort, contribute to its reputation for excellence in hospitality. These establishments, set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean, cater to the desires of the global elite, providing a luxurious escape that epitomises the city’s commitment to world-class service.

The Property Agent: Your Partner in Real Estate in Sotogrande

CELESTE ALONSO, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the Real Estate Industry, has embarked on a new venture by launching her own company, aptly named The Property Agent. With years of expertise under her belt, Celeste aims to revolutionise the property market with a personalised and client-centric approach.

For many individuals, purchasing a new home stands as one of life’s most significant decisions, laden with complexities and uncertainties. However, Celeste endeavours to redefine this narrative. Her primary objective as your property agent is to transform the daunting process of acquiring a property into a seamless, stress-free journey. Central to her methodology is the art of listening intently, working tirelessly on behalf of her clients, and ultimately facilitating the discovery of their dream home.

At the heart of Celeste’s ethos lies a commitment to empowering her clients with the knowledge and insight necessary to make informed decisions regarding their investments. Transparency is paramount; there are no hidden clauses, convoluted sales jargon, or obscured fine print. From the initial consultation to navigating the intricacies of property search, financing, legalities, and beyond, Celeste pledges

FINDING the right real estate agent is crucial when navigating the complexities of buying or selling a property. A skilled and compatible agent can make the process smoother and more successful. Here are key steps to help you find the right real estate agent for your needs:

1| Define Your Needs and Preferences: Before beginning your search, outline your specific requirements. Consider factors like the type of property, location, budget, and any unique features you desire. This clarity will guide your agent selection process.

2| Research and Recommendations: Start by seeking recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have had positive experiences with real estate transactions. Online reviews and testimonials can also provide insights into an agent’s reputation and track record.

3| Check Credentials: Ensure that the real estate agent is licensed and a member of relevant professional associations. This guarantees a certain level of expertise and adherence to ethical standards. You can

unwavering support and guidance, available round the clock, seven days a week.

Specialising in the sale of both established and offplan new developments, spanning from Sotogrande to Benahavis in the picturesque Costa del Sol region of southern Spain, Celeste offers a diverse portfolio of apartments, townhouses, and villas. These properties boast prime locations near pristine beaches and world-class golf courses, characterised by impeccable quality and craftsmanship. Whether you seek a holiday retreat, an investment opportunity, or a permanent abode, Celeste guarantees a tailored solution to suit every taste and budget.

For those embarking on their property journey or seeking expert guidance in real estate matters, Celeste Alonso and The Property Agent stand as unwavering allies, ready to turn dreams into reality.

Urb. El Casar Floresta 44, Sotogrande, Spain

637 227 986

celeste@thepropertyagent.es

Skype: Celeste Alonso thepropertyagent.es

Finding the right Agent

verify this information through state licensing boards.

4| Experience Matters: Look for an agent with a proven track record in your target market. Experience not only indicates competence but also suggests that the agent has a deeper understanding of local trends, property values, and potential challenges.

5| Interview Multiple Agents: Don’t settle for the first agent you come across. Interview several candidates to assess their communication skills, market knowledge, and overall compatibility with your needs. Ask about their approach to negotiations, marketing strategies, and how they handle potential issues.

6| Communication and Availability: Effective communication is crucial in real estate transactions. Ensure that the agent is responsive, keeps you informed, and is available when needed. Discuss preferred communication methods and expectations upfront.

7| Negotiation Skills: A skilled negotiator can make a significant difference in the outcome of your transaction. Inquire about the agent’s approach to negotiations and their ability to secure favourable deals.

8| Market Knowledge: The right agent should have a deep understanding of the local market. They should be aware of current trends, pricing dynamics, and future developments that may impact your investment.

10| Trust Your Instincts: Lastly, trust your instincts. Choose an agent with whom you feel comfortable and who aligns with your goals. A successful real estate partnership relies on mutual trust and understanding. Taking the time to find the right real estate agent can result in a more positive and successful property transaction. By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can identify an agent who meets your specific needs and ensures a smooth real estate experience.

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Recognising the importance of effective communication, Energy Nordic offers personalised assistance in various languages. Our multilingual team is prepared to guide you through each stage of the process, ensuring you feel confident and well-understood.

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At Energy Nordic, we go beyond services; we establish enduring partnerships. Connect with us today and discover your energy ally.

Calle Higueras del Lagarejo 6, 29651, Mijas, Malaga 900 696 820 info@energynordic.com | energynordic.com

MAKING an offer on a property is a crucial step in the real estate process that involves several key elements. Firstly, it requires determining the appropriate purchase price based on market analysis, comparable sales, and the property’s condition.

The offer typically includes the proposed purchase amount, earnest money deposit, and the desired closing date. It may also involve contingencies, such as inspections or financing approval, outlining conditions that must be met for the sale to proceed.

In addition to the financial aspects, the offer often comes with a time frame for the seller to respond. This

The offer

negotiation period allows for backand-forth communication between buyer and seller, with potential adjustments to the offer terms. Buyers may also include personal letters or other persuasive elements to strengthen their case.

Once the seller accepts, rejects, or counters the offer, the negotiation process intensifies. A successful offer results in a binding contract, signifying a commitment from both parties to move forward with the sale. It is essential for buyers to approach this process with careful consideration, balancing their interests with market conditions and the seller’s expectations.

Unique Development in La Quinta, Nueva Andalucia

Please contact us for more information

The multinational, multilingual team at Roc Estates are dedicated to finding you your dream home on the coast of Spain, specialising in bargains, bank repossessions and distressed sales in the most sought-after areas including Benalmadena, La Cala de Mijas, Calahonda, Marbella, Puerto Banus and Estepona.

At Roc Estates, their business model is about quality rather than quantity, so you can be sure the team will be with you throughout your journey, providing you with honest and transparent advice.

With unrivalled experience and expertise gained from over 20 years of selling properties on the beautiful Costa del Sol and in Scandinavia, the team at Roc Estates focuses on negotiating the best price for their clients, making the process as enjoyable as possible!

This small and friendly company has access to over 20,000 properties and over 150 agencies across Andalucia, and can provide you with a huge range of contacts such as lawyers, architects, builders, management, rentals and tax through their associates.

Not only do Roc Estates have access to every single property for sale on the Costa del Sol, they can also help you to build your dream home, matched exactly to your taste and lifestyle. Their team of experts in consulting, project management, and reforms work with some of the most recommended architects and designers on the Costa del Sol to enable you to create the perfect property.

Perhaps you have found the property of your dreams but you want renovations? Roc Estates helps their clients to renovate or reform smaller properties and larger jobs such as transforming an Andalucian villa into a modern contemporary style Villa. And, if you are looking for a new build Spanish property on the coast, Roc Estates have over 150 developments of all types including charming townhouses, luxury new build villas and modern apartments.

With Roc Estates´ expertise and professionalism, all of their clients benefit from a personal and honest service, enabling you to make informed decisions. So, whether you are looking for a bargain holiday or retirement home, investment property, or to build your own new home, Roc Estates are committed to finding you the right property at

Website:

https://www.rocestates.com/home

the best price. The team can also provide you with rental and management assistance, their sub constructors to rent or built you the perfect new home, or why not take a look at their incredible renovations and new builds?

Address: Av. Salvador Vicente, 10, 29631 Benalmádena, Málaga

Telephone: +34 650 95 20 84

Email: info@cestates.com

Dive into the world of rest with Hästens Beds

IN today’s bustling world, finding moments of genuine rest and rejuvenation is crucial. Hästens beds, with their legacy of craftsmanship and top-quality natural materials, stand out as an oasis of serenity and unparalleled quality.

Since its inception in 1852 in Sweden, Hästens has been committed to offering the most restorative sleep possible through expert craftsmanship and natural materials. Each bed is a masterpiece of engineering and ergonomic design, intended to elevate rest to a higher level.

Hästens’ Swedish craftsmanship is unrivalled. Each bed is handmade by skilled artisans who have honed their craft over generations. This meticulous dedication is reflected in every detail, from material selection to the construction of the bed itself. Natural materials are the cornerstone of each Hästens bed. From organic cotton to sheep’s wool, each component is carefully chosen for comfort, durability, and sustainability. These materials not only offer luxury but also a healthy, toxinfree sleep environment.

When choosing Golf Property

WHEN selecting a golf property, several crucial factors should guide your decision to ensure it aligns with your preferences and lifestyle. Begin by assessing the property’s location, focusing on accessibility, proximity to amenities, and the overall atmosphere of the area. A desirable location enhances your overall experience.

Evaluate the quality of the golf course itself, considering the maintenance of fairways, greens, and facilities. The reputation of the golf course designer and its standing within the golf community can provide valuable insights into its overall quality.

Explore the additional amenities offered by the community. Golf properties often come with access to clubhouses, fitness centres, swimming pools, and social activities. Ensure these amenities complement your lifestyle.

Consider the size and layout of the property. Some golf properties offer larger lots or unique architectural features. Choose a property that aligns with your space requirements and provides the desired level of privacy.

The ergonomic design of Hästens beds focuses on providing the ideal environment for restorative sleep. From the even distribution of weight to proper spinal support, every aspect is designed to promote quality sleep.

Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for a healthy, balanced life, and Hästens beds make it possible. By sinking into layers of softness and comfort, one enters a world of dreams and renewal every night.

In summary, Hästens beds offer an unparalleled rest experience. With expert craftsmanship, natural materials, and ergonomic design, these beds transform the simple act of sleeping into an art. Discover the luxury of true rest with Hästens and elevate your sleep to new heights of well-being and comfort.

Contact us at bdhome Marbella:

Calle Antonio Herrero 3, Marbella. 952 861 122 info@bdhome.es bdhome.es

the club’s rules and regulations to ensure they align with your preferences.

Assess the features and condition of the home. Look for modern amenities, sufficient bedrooms and bathrooms, and a layout that suits your lifestyle. Consider potential renovations or repairs that may impact your investment.

Understand the golf club’s membership structure and associated fees, including initiation fees, annual dues, and any additional costs. Be aware of

Consider the potential resale value of the property. A golf property in a well-established and sought-after location is likely to hold its value better over time. Investigate any planned developments in the surrounding area, as future developments can impact property values and the overall atmosphere of the community. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing a golf property that meets your current needs and aligns with your long-term goals and preferences.

Processionary problem

Processionary Problem

THE emergence of processionary caterpillars in early spring has prompted warnings from the Spanish government due to the early presence of these pests, which is believed to be linked to climate change.

These caterpillars, characterised by their orange, green, or brown colour and covered in tiny poisonous hairs, typically move in long chains, hence their name.

While they were first discovered in oak trees in the UK, they are more

IS it time for a change in the carousel tradition?

Advocates for animal rights argue that British fairgrounds should cease using animal figures on carousels as it promotes exploitation.

Recently, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) proposed that fairgrounds could instead highlight human achievements. They suggested a shift towards featuring mechanical objects and other fantastical designs.

Peta spokesperson, Elisa Allen suggested: “It would be wonderful to see UK fairgrounds replace animal-shaped carou-

Image: DeRebus / Shutterstock.com

commonly found in pine trees in Spain.

Despite efforts by local councils to control them, even urban areas with pine trees remain at risk.

Of particular concern is the danger these caterpillars pose to humans and animals. Their toxic hairs can cause skin irritation or rash upon contact, similar to a nettle sting.

Pets, especially dogs, are vulnerable to the toxic effects of these caterpillars. There have been reports of pets being fatally affected by the caterpillars’ toxic hairs.

Meet Quincy - A dog-sitter’s delight

KEEPING your pets at home when you travel can give you real peace of mind. Our house and pet-sitters can also entertain your pets and keep them company while you are away. We’re rated 4.9 / 5.0 on TrustPilot.

When you know the sitters are checked and come from HouseSit Match you know we have your back. What is more, they won’t charge you a cent! Our house and pet-sitting works as an exchange of services. You offer free accommodation and the pet-sitters house-sit for Free! You review each other at the end.

If you’re travelling in 2024 join our network now to find sitters, sooner rather than later. Get organised today! All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed. Choose Housesitmatch.com for affordable travel, home and pet care. Next steps:

Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com

Choose a Standard account (£69

Quincy is the friendliest Bichon Frise ever.

per year) to ensure you can help online when needed

Create a profile with photos of your pet and the house

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

HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety, then build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your

advert, respond, and you choose the sitter of your choice.

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.9 / 5

Excellent

I have used HouseSitMatch for the last three years and would highly recommend it. Very easy to communicate with and very helpful by phone if needed. Janet Bryant, Pet owner. 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 house-sitters get free accommodation!

Reader exclusive offer – 25% Off Any New Membership Register as either house-sitter or homeowner. Get a 25% discount - Use coupon code OLIVE25.

Changing times

sel figures with vehicles such as cars, unicycles, tractors, aeroplanes, rockets, and bulldozers - or more whimsical designs like shooting stars, rainbows, or brooms.”

The animal rights campaigners have voiced the same concerns in the Netherlands and also contacted the American company Chances Rides, arguing that depicting animals in carousels inadvertently glorifies the exploitation of sentient beings.

However, the sentiment was not shared by many

members of the public, “Have you lost your minds ?” wrote one individual, “Leave deeply mythic traditional fairground rides alone.”

Oscar posted: “You are going to make yourselves

a laughing stock with this nonsense. Sane people don’t associate wooden horses with real ones.”

Carousels have a rich history, originally inspired by medieval cavalry games. They have evolved significantly since their inception in 12th-century Europe and Asia.

WOODEN HORSE: Is not the same as a real one.

PROPERTY

CLASSIFIEDS

AIR CONDITIONING

AIR CONDITIONING by Cool and Cosy. The family company that cares. Installation and repairs. Quality machines. Ecosense movement sensors supplied and fitted from 100 Euros. For other energy-saving products visit www. coolandcosy.es. 952 935 513. We are Junta de Andalucia authorised installers as the new law states (real decreto 115/2017). On the Costa del Sol since 1993 (303640)

Quality Air Conditioning Installations.  Economical heating, & silent in operation. 28 Years installation history in Spain.  EnviroCare. All Areas Covered.   952 663 141/670 409 759  info@ envirocarespain.com www. envirocarespain.com (305304)

MR COOL – Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, Heating Systems, Sales & Service –Call Christian +34 629 527 587 or Nick +34 618 678 853 – www.mrcool.es (305074)

AIR-CONDITIONING

installations. Service & Repair to any make or model, commercial air conditioning, as well as Bar bottle coolers. Suppliers of catering equipment. All work guaranteed. All areas covered including campo. Contact Williams Refrigeration 952 596 404 / 679 284 959. (305317)

AIR CONDITIONING SERVICING

28 Years Servicing & Installing in Spain.  EnviroCare. All Areas Covered.   952 663 141/670 409 759  info@ envirocarespain.com www. envirocarespain.com (305304)

AWNINGS

ACE OF SHADES – All colours available. Urbanisations catered for, electric and manual operation; also recovery service available, largest selection of colours and designs on the coast. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades. design T1(101730)

90

SUNSHINE AWNINGS/ BLINDS Awnings, Persiana, Shutter & Rejas Specialist. New & Repairs. 25yrs on the coast. 680 323 969 / 952 199 640 (304742)

BLINDS

ACE OF SHADES - Vertical, Venetian, Roman, Roller, Wooden blinds, various colours available, also black-out blinds. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design (101730)

BLINDS, awnings, mos quito screens, curtains, vast choice. All areas covered. Coast and inland. 655 825 931 (303730)

MOSQUITO screens, sliding, pulldown, pleated, colours call Mosquito Nick 647 072 861 www. mosquitonick.ws (304439)

SOLAR BLINDS

SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for large glazed areas to reflect heat / glare and stop furniture fading and still keep the view. SAVE HEAT IN THE WINTER to improve your living environment. ian@

29 Feb - 6 March 2024

solarshadetinting.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (303296)

BUILDERS

BUILDING SERVICES

JIM’S HOME IMPROVE

MENTS. Bathrooms / kitchen reforms, repairs, plumbing, carpentry, painting, tiling, maintenan ce. Give us a call no job too small. 692 207 799 / 645 559 423 (304610)

GENERAL BUILDER, Tiling, plastering, painting, electrici an, plumber, carpentry. Reasonable prices. 635 913 885 (References available)

SWINGLES CASAS SL. For all your building needs. Visit www.swinglescasas.com for more details or call 635 999 765 / 666 960 262 (303441)

PLUMBING & GENERAL

BUILDING All your plumbing needs. Bathroom, kitchens, tiling & painting. Benalmadena based, travel no problem. Glen 669 073 773 or Paul 642 098 115 (304246)

QUALITY renovation: Kitchens, bathrooms, tiling, windows, doors, plastering, Total property renovations  info@ masterbuildspain.com

Telephone: 952663141 /670409759 Over 28 years renovating history in Spain (302479)

METALWORK

NEW REJAS, GATES, Carports & Fencing, repairs & alterations. Work Guaranteed. Reliable. 19yrs on Coast. Steve the Welder. Call/WhatsApp 655 040 648 (305256)

CARS FOR SALE

BUY & SELL

HOUSE CLEARANCE SPECIALISTS, FULL OR PART CLEARANCE. ALL FURNITURE WANTED, WE PAY MORE. TEL 634 324 914 OR EMAIL houseclearanceman@ hotmail.com (303629)

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

ALHAURIN FURNITURE EMPORIUM Buyers & Sellers of quality furniture. Top prices paid. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071

SHOWER UNIT, white tray 100cm x 80cm with corner opening glass panels. Hardly used €150 ONO 952 464 731 (305379)

CAR HIRE

ALH RENT A CAR – SHORT & LONG-TERM RENTALS

FROM €15 A DAY.

INSURANCE INCLUDED IN OUR PRICES. - TLF: 638 846 909 or reser vasalhrentacar@gmail. com (303303)

CHARITY

COLLECTIVE CALLING are urgently requesting donations of clothing, homeware & furniture, so if you are having a House Clearance, Please call us for FREE COLLECTION. We sell good quality items, which then supports low-income families and the homeless in the community. These items can be dropped directly to our charity shop Tienda Solidaria: Av. Pablo Ruiz Picasso, 4, San Pedro de Alcantara, alternatively, call us to arrange collection on +34 711 006 961 (295137)

CHIMENY SERVIES

CHIMNEY SWEEP. Clean reliable professional 608 377 497 (303436)

APEX CHIMNEY SERVI

CES, professional chimney sweeping and smoke testing.

NACS Qualified. Clean and efficient Tel: Bob 696 320 202

CHURCH SERVICES

BENALMADENA Elim Family Fellowship. Elimfamilyfellow ship.com or call 951 912 525 or 952 446 627. (10011)

CALAHONDA: Encounter Church (Elim), Family church with kids’ activities, Iglesia San Miguel, Sundays 4.30pm, Rev. David Hodgson, 695 115 496 (10012)

THE Ark Christian Church. We meet at The Ark Christian School, Calle Río Darro 2 y Plaza Juncal, 29651, Mijas Costa (the road behind the Mijas Aquapark) on Sundays at 11.00am. Pastor, Andrew Seale Tlf 682 713 491 www. thearkspain.com (293850)

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE

ADVANCED Cleaning Services. Professional carpet, upholstery cleaning, 27 years experience, wet/dry clean.  Honest, reliable service 678 808 837 / 952 669 701 or email  acservs@outlook.com (290189)

UPHOLSTERY including leather cleaned also carpets. 685 524 921 (290189)

STARLIGHT Property Cleaning & Maintenance. All types of cleaning. Any size of property. All Areas. Residential & Holiday Lets. 682 636451 www. starlight-spain.com (303728)

DECORATORS

ATD DECOR. British Painter. 30 Years’ Experience. Punctual. Great Rates. Call for free quote. 602 431 968 Facebook: @ATDDecorMalaga (304784)

RAINBOW PINTURAS

Spray painting, professional finish of kitchens, doors and furniture. All aspects of interior/ exterior paint and decorating under taken. Call/ Whatsapp: 628066308  www. rainbowpinturas.com Facebook. Instagram: rain bowpinturasmalaga (303387)

DOMESTIC APP REP

DOMESTIC appliance repairs washing machines fridges cookers ovens water heaters gas electric professionally repaired 608 337 497 (303436)

DRAINAGE

BLOCKED DRAINS? Leak detection, CCTV survey, root removal, Tel 952 568 414 / 661 910 772 / drainspain.com (296441)

ELECTRICIAN

ALL TYPES OF ELECTRICAL work, re-wiring, fault finding. Certified, Reliable & Guarantee. Frank Tel or Whatsapp 650 561 629 (304788)

FLOOR POLISHING

MARBLE FLOOR (2.50€/ m2) WHY PAY MORE. WE CLEAN, CRYSTALLISE, SEAL THEN POLISH YOUR MARBLE TO HIGH GLOSS, NON-SLIP.

PROFESSIONAL GUARANTEED, FAST SERVICE. 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE. ALSO REPAIRS DAMAGES TO MARBLE, CLEAN AND SEAL TERRACOTTA TERRACES, COVERS ALL COSTA DEL SOL. TEL: 671 244 683 (303059)

MARBLE FLOORS polished high shine non-slip. Fast Service Reliable, family-run business. TERRACOTTA CLEANED and sealed. No job too small. Cleansol 10am – 10pm 7 days all areas.

952 930 861 / 607 610 578

Discount code: EWN 1 CLEAN (206437)

MARBLE POLISHING, CRYSTALLISING, LASTING, HIGH SHINE. REGRINDING, RESTORATION OF SALTY, DEAD FLOORS. 27YRS EXPERIENCE. RELIABLE. REFS AVAILABLE. CYRIL. 645 840 199 (305107)

FOR SALE/WANTED

WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel678 716 693 (288662)

FURNITURE

FURNITURE wanted, same day collection, also house clearance and removals. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071 (304097)

GARDENING

IRRIGATION

IRIS-IRRIGATION and landscapes. TRENCHLESS NO DIG Irrigation installation, Cables, Fibre Optic, Electric & Lighting Cables. New Installations & problem-solving. Turf (supply and laying). Garden constructions. Tree surgeon. Clearing. Astro Turf (Free Quotation) 676 747 521 (303376)

GATE REPAIRS

ELECTRIC GATE/GARAGE DOOR automation repaired. Free, no obligation quotation. Call Colin - 636 394 641 (304223)

GATES

ELECTRIC GATES/Garage Doors. Intercoms/access control systems and replacement remotes. New installs and repairs. For all your electric gate and garage door requirements call us on 605 356 469/952 786 178. The Garage Door Co & 2 Way Gates. tgdc@hotmail.co.uk www.2waygates.com (302680)

GLASS CURTAINS

GLASS CURTAIN repairs, specialist in replacement of discoloured plastic strips that act as a seal between the glass panels. Call Julian 655 825 931 (303730)

HEATING

Fires:  Electric, Gas.  Quality guaranteed.  EnviroCare.  All areas covered.  952 663 141 / 670 409759.  info@ envirocarespain.com www. envirocarespain.com (305304)

HELP WANTED

PERSON REQUIRED to assist in inputting document information onto a computer. Must be computer literate. 1 week’s work available. Torreblanca area. Call 952 464 731 (305379)

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

VINYL WRAP

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

HOT TUBS AND SPAS

HOT TUBS new used, bought, sold, hired. Also move & repairs. Used good Hot Tubs for sale. 691 973 131 / +44 7836 379122 (304541)

HOUSE CLEARANCES

ALHAURIN FURNITURE EMPORIUM furniture wanted, same day collection, also house clearance and removals. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071 (304097)

INSURANCE

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

STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www. abbeygateinsure.com (291234)

LOCKSMITHS

ENGLISH LOCKSMITHS,  SECURITY & SHADE EXPERTS. FREE HOME SECURITY SURVEY. 636 770 865 / 952 660 233 WWW.SECURITYOF SPAIN.COM CONTACT DAREN (303056) T1

ENGLISH LOCKSMITH emergency & appointment, locks changed, patio doors & windows secured. All locks supplied insurance approved. Fast & reliable service. No hidden extras or nasty surprises. 657 466 803 www. a1locksmiths.es (290138)

MASSAGE

SAN PEDRO. Sandra. Professional relaxing, tantric massage. Young, slim, work alone, unforgettable moments. Nueva Andalucia. 641 346 278

PURE RELAXATION in Nueva Andalucia with attractive independent masseuse. Tantric and other special massages in private apartment. For gentlemen and couples, with no rush attention to your needs 656 350 401

ENGLISH ELEGANT independent & affectionate lady in late 40s, gives a sensual golfers massage to relieve tension in her discreet private apartment. Satisfaction guaranteed. Call 680 177 569 (305079)

MARBELLA CENTREthe ideal place for relaxing massage in the city centre.

Available 24h and prices from €50. For reservations and information call 620 366 817. (302600)

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

BENALMADENA lovely lady, offering you a very relaxing body massage. Call for an appointment 634 209 427 (305306)

FUENGIROLA. Japanese Shiatsu & Zen Ki relaxing and therapeutic massage. Excellent service guaranteed. Home Visits. WhatsApp for appointment 693 988 340 (304785)

AT MY Wellness Massage Studio your first visit will be the first of many. Telephone: +34 623 492 262 (304620)

JAPANESE massage. Marbella. Relaxing, less stress. Telephone: 664 177 216 (MI 559)

MARBELLA Tantric ritual massage with aromatherapy to leave completely renewed. 642 751 070 (2907)

FUENGIROLA. Vanesa, 25 years old, beautiful brunette, Brazilian, massage and relax 672 056 595 (FU 3202)

SARA Venezuelan, professional relaxing therapeutic & sensitive massage. I can visit you. For more information contact me 632 770 051 (303021)

BENALMADENA Private Villa: DANIELA from Colombia 19yrs Masseur. New on the Coast. in C/ Imperio Argentina N.1 in Benalmadena. Incalls Outcalls 24hrs. Tel. 679 267 197 (305321)

BENALMADENA: IRINA Russian Masseur, model, slim, Russian, Spanish, English. Incalls & Outcalls 24hrs. Tel. 604 181 157 (305321)

BENALMADENA Masseur, massage, jacuzzi, outcalls 24hrs. Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs. Tel. 679 267 197

NEW FUENGIROLA. Ruby 21 years old mulatto beautiful, massage and relax 672 056 595 (FU 3202)

BENALMADENA: MariaColombian Masseur - blond long hair, Incalls & Outcalls 24hrs. Tel. 604 181 157

BENALMADENA: Alicia Spanish professional & relaxing Masseur.. Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs. Tel. 679 267 197 (305321)

FILIPINA/Thai, exclusive prostatic, deep, hard, soft massage pleasure to body mind therapy, exotic proffessional relaxation, clean, good atmosphere. Elviria. Marbella. 604 457 672 (MI 578)

NEW IN FUENGIROLA private Villa, four friends, total discretion, massages and relax 672 056 595 (FU 3202)

BOLICHES: Celina Https:// celina-16.jimdosite.com.

Elegant loving kind lovely delightful lady for educated very discreet, respectable gentleman. Unique relaxing moments, hot sensual massages, private quite place. Enjoy full deep complete, excellent treatment, special attention of your needs and total satisfaction. Demanding impeccable hygiene. Previous appointment 11am/6pm. 622 210 797 (FU 3180)

BENALMADENA: Sandra Spanish Masseur and Amalia - duo massage & relaxing. Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs. Tel. 604 181 157 (305321)

ASIAN lady tantric sensory generate self esteem body technique, fantastic relaxation massage Marbella. 671 442 664 (MI 578)

VANESSA Benalmadena excellent massage services. Relaxing & therapeutic. Home premises. Call me 624 811 098 (305274)

ASIAN Touch Oriental European massage, prostatic, tantric, very relaxing relief pain stress, private luxury. Elviria. Marbella. 604 473 831 (MI 578)

ASIAN MASSUER offers relaxing full body massage. Home Visits. WhatsApp 641 980 066 for details (304011)

OLGA Mature Masseure relaxing & sensitive. Outcalls & Incalls. 24 hrs. Marbella –Tel: 632 467 580 (304040)

FUENGIROLA - Johanna Brazilian 45yrs Slim Mature Masseur. Relaxing Massages. Best relax guaranteed. Tel: 617.818.615 (305174)

ORIENTAL ladyboy pretty professional traditional, tantric massage relieving. Marbella. 604 428 812 (MI 578)

ASIAN PROFESSIONAL Massage, sensual, relaxing & therapeutic, to release tension & stress. Fuengirola. Call 613 592 062 (304091)

ASIAN ladyboy and gay, authentic professional/ traditional massage therapy unique treatment, clean atmosphere. Marbella. 603 257 690 (MI 578)

GENESIS blonde explosive masseur, men and women, from Venezuela. 24 hoursoutcall / incall - visa & amex - Tel. 680 55 614 (304861)

CASSIE. Mature English lady. Discreet and clean. Fuengirola. 667 914 732 (FU 3031)

FILIPINO MASSAGE

CENTRE, where hearts of Asian proffessional massage daily. 604 421 973 (MI 578)

BARBARA mature masseur educated 42yrs, private, 24hrs, Marbella. Tel 613 213 030 (304740)

CRISTINA and MIA - duo masseurs on holiday in Marbella - infall & outcalls 24hrs - visa & amex - Tel. 680 55 614 (304861)

ORIENTAL ladyboy pretty professional traditional, tantric massage relieving. Marbella. 604 428 812 (MI 576)

THAI Benalmádena Costa. Body-body full massages. Visits, hotels. Whatsapp 689 387 448 (MI 579)

FUENGIROLA. Relaxing massage, Venezuelan Ladyboy masseuse Violeta. Chiropractor. 660 867 374 (FU 3201)

FUENGIROLA. Marisa, 38 years old, mature, all kinds of massages. Only WhatsApp. 631 659 408 (FU 3188)

LOS BOLICHES - Carolina Pretty Masseur, Slim 45yrs Relaxing Massage, Guaranteed relax - Tel: 634.703.111 (305174)

SAN PEDRO BEACH RELAXING AND SENSITIVE MASSEUSES WELCOME YOU IN A PRIVATE AND DISCREET PLACE. YOUNG, PLEASANT. WITH APPOINTMENT. EASY, PRIVATE PARKING. 666 194 079 - 674 679 757. (305229)

BENALMÁDENA. FRIENDLY attractive masseuse, relieve muscle tension. From 50€. 613 106 153 (FU 3194)

WWW.CASAKINKSPAIN. COM. Heated pool, Jacuzzi and private bar. Inland private retreat with a full massage service. 662 913 428 (FU 3191)

PROFESSIONAL massage on the table. Fuengirola. Irina. 605 076 407 & 640 357 128 (FU 3189)

MARBELLA. Karina trans, 29, Brazilian masseuse feminine blonde. Whatsapp 667 846 464 (FU 3200)

COLOMBIAN. Yeraldin, I do massages and something else. I am independent 45 years old I am in Nueva Andalucía. 611 245 461 (FU 3197)

SHAVING & Massage sensitive area by mature Japanese masseuse. Fuengirola. 610 396 186 (FU 3199)

MISCELLANEOUS

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

Available in enrollable, slider and pleated. Large choice of colours including wood effect. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@ aceofshades.design (101730)

MOSQUITO Screens for windows, doors and a high-quality sliding patio door screen. All finishes available. Quick service. All areas covered. Call Julian 655 825 931 (303730)

MOSQUITO screens, sliding, pulldown, pleated, colours, call Mosquito Nick 647 072 861 www. mosquitonick.ws (304439)

MOTORING

CAR SERVICES

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

IMPORT/TRANSFER

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

WANTED

CARS, Vans, Bikes wanted. Any Reg, Anything Considered Call or Whatsapp 687 049 592 (305254)

WANTED, wanted, wanted!! All cars, all years, all models… from exotic to classic. Spanish, English, Dutch plated. Call us on 951 977 329 or 606 647 597. (304490)

WANTED CARS AND VANS, FREE COLLECTION, SAME DAY 685 524 921 (290189)

CARS, VANS BOUGHT WITH / WITHOUT PAPERS. CASH WAITING 678 808 837 (303115)

EURO CAR Established since 1998. All Cars / Commercials wanted, runners or no-runners. Cash. Buyer Collects. Transfer included. 605 109 796 (303389)

PEST CONTROL

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

PETS

LAGUNAPETHOTEL.COM

Loving care for cats and dogs TEL 646 066 351 (302996)

KENNELS

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

PET CHARITY

CAMPER VANS, CARAVANS, MOBILE HOMES, BOATS AND ALL PLANT, DIGGERS, DUMPERS, MOTORBIKES, CARS AND COMMERCIALS WANTED. BEST PRICE PAID, CASH TODAY, ANY REGISTRATION WITH OR WITHOUT PAPERS. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 (290189)

CARS, VANS, ANY RESGISTRATION, INSTANT CASH, FINANCE / EMBARGO UK OR SPANISH 685 524 921 CARS, VANS UK OR SPANISH BOUGHT FOR CASH. FREE COLLECTION IN SPAIN / UK. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 OR 952 669 701 (290189)

FOR SALE

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

OTHERS

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

PASSPORT RENEWALS

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

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

ACE CHARITY ‘El Refugio’ in La Cala de Mijas is a registered charity. We have on average 275 dogs in our care and we receive no help from the town hall or the Andalucian government. We desperately need foster homes and adoptants for our many dogs, especially the small ones and puppies who do not do well in a big shelter. We are grateful for any help offered, including donations of food and blankets. Visiting times are from 13.00 to 15.00 and you can always turn up or make an appointment by calling Denise on 669 018 736. Our website is www. ace-charity.org where you can view all the dogs in our care.

ADANA THE ANIMAL SHELTER IN ESTEPONA. We always need volunteers to walk and socialise with our dogs and help with cleaning. We also need good homes for our animals that you can see on www.adana.es. Kennels open every day 10-1.30, Camino de Casares, near Parque de los Pedregales, Estepona. (5 minutes from the Poligono) For more information call 952 113 467, available from 10.00am until 2.00pm. (93319)

PLUMBERS

MOSQUITO SCREENS

ACE OF SHADES - Don’t let the bugs get you!

LAWYERS

ANIMEX Foundation offers free will upgrading when leaving something for abandoned animals. Contact animexfoundation@gmail. com or call 692 166 434 now for this absolutely free service (288287)

ARCH - The Andalucian Rescue Centre for Horses, registered charity 8448, the Centre is open to visitors every Sunday from 9am until 2pm. Working closely with the Spanish authorities, we rescue, rehabilitate and rehome abused and abandoned horses and donkeys. Come and meet our current rescues, learn about our work and how you may be able to help. Run solely by a small team of dedicated volunteers, the Centre is located between Alhaurin el Grande and Coin in Comm. de Viña Borrego behind Venta Miralmonte. For more information and directions see our website www.horserescuespain.org, our Facebook page Centro Andalusi de Rescate de Caballos or tel. 610 845 491 or 656 935 613 (93322)

SEPE the horse and donkey charity is open to the public at weekends from 10.00 to 5.00. Volunteers are much needed in all departments and are welcome at any time. For our riding for the disabled classes, we are also in need of extra helpers. We are nationally registered by the Spanish Ministry of the Interior (164640) but only with your support can we give the equine a voice. If you can just commit to 2 or 3 euros a month it will really help make a difference. You can find us at Lauro Golf Equestrian Centre, Alqueria, Alhaurin de la Torre. Tel. 608 258 950 info@sepeonline.net www.sepeonline.net (93321)

SOS ANIMAL REFUGE we have dogs, young and old looking for homes. Some of our dogs have been with us for some time and would love to find a cosy spot to curl up in and a knee on which to rest their heads. If you have room in your heart and home we would love to hear from you. We do not put our dogs to sleep - no matter how old, they are safe with us. For day to day needs and to pay for veterinary care, we much appreciate the support we receive. We desperately need items to sell on our market stall to help raise funds and are happy to come and collect. So, if you are having a clear-out, please contact us on 605 227 155. If you would like to know more about rehoming, please call 653 257 875. Visit our website www.sos-animals.org

or please phone Sandy on 952 385 923 or 666 814 056 if you would like to make a donation or help in any way. (93317)

PLUMBING

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

POOLS PROPERTY

Thinking of selling your property or interested in a current valuation?

We have clients actively looking for properties from Torremolinos to Calahonda. List with us and let us sell your property.  Call Joe 626 864 683 (305376)

PROPERTY FOR SALE

WWW.INTERMARBELLA.

COM Costa del Sol Property for sale. All areas / all budgets / all types. Spain +34 951 708 422. UK +44 208 144 5008 Email info@intermarbella.com

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

MIRAFLORES, Beautiful

2 bed, 2 bath, 2 terraces, south facing apartment with virtually private garden, easy walking to beach, shops and restaurants, close to bowls and tennis club. Call owner direct –Melanie 692 504 977 (305322)

PROP MAINTENANCE

STARLIGHT Property Cleaning & Maintenance All Areas. Residential & Holiday Lets. Persiana repairs, Decorating, Electrial & Plumbing repairs. 682 636451 www.starlight-spain.com

PROPERTY TO LET

WWW.INTERMARBELLA.

MAN AND VAN removals / storage service. House clearances Collections and deliveries Waste removal NO JOB TOO SMALL Call Mike on 604 380 570 (304093)

A&J REMOVALS For all your clearance, delivery and removal needs. Moving never looked so good. Call us on 662534877

NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL

PROFESSIONAL LOCAL REMOVALS AT AFFORDA BLE RATES. 1/2 DAY FROM €90. FULL DAY FROM €175. WE ALSO PROVIDE A FORTNIGHTLY DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE TO UK AND EUROPE (INCL SCOTLAND).

WORLDWIDE SHIPPING TO USA, AUSTRALIA, ETC AND FULL STORAGE FACILITIES.

TEL (0034) 952 578 507 OR (0034) 637 892 278 / EMAIL garymoveit@yahoo.co.uk

JDS EURO TRANSPORT & REMOVALS - Regular trips throughout Europe. Call or WhatsApp Julian 0044 7884 908 929. See Facebook Page for recommendations (304139)

moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (301129)

STORAGE

moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (301129)

ROLLER SHUTTERS

covered. Quality guaran teed. 952 663 141/ 670 409 759  info@ envirocarespain.com www. envirocarespain.com

SOFT FURNISHINGS

CURTAINS, blinds, cushions and much more. Free estimates and home visits. Tel 657 369 343 or rosannacarmella8@ gmail.com (304143)

SPECIALITY SERVICES

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

SWIMMING POOLS

POOL MAINTENANCE, & Repairs, including heaters & regrouts. Friendly & reliable service. Malaga to Estepona & inland areas. 678 791 495 / 951 536 389 www. sparklenripple.net (304345)

SWIMMING Pool Heating Pumps, Pool Covers, Rollers, Filtration Systems.  28 years installation history in Spain. Envirocare.  All areas covered.  Quality Guarant eed. 952663141/6704097

59 info@envirocarespain. com www.envirocarespain. com (305304)

POOL MAINTENANCE

TV/SATELLITE

REPAIRS to TV’s, LCD, LED, -Videos, Hi-Fi, & Microwaves, Mag Boxes, UK channels installed. 35 years experience. Free Estimates, Can Collect. John 952 491 723 or 600 706 201. (305199)

UPHOLSTERY

ADVANCED Cleaning Services. Professional carpet and upholstery cleaning, 28 years experience, wet/dry clean.  Honest, reliable.  678 808 837 / 952 669 701  acservs@outlook.com (290189)

UPHOLSTERY including leather cleaned also carpets. 685 524 921 (290189)

CARPETS AND SOFAS cleaned. Reliable, fast service. Family run. Cleansol 952 930 861 / 607 610 578. 10am - 10pm 7 days, all areas Discount Code: EWN 1 CLEAN (206437)

WATER HEATERS

ELECTRIC & Gas Water Heaters.  Quality Installations.  28 years installation history in Spain.  EnviroCare.  All Areas Covered. 952 663 141/670 409 759  info@ envirocarespain.com www. envirocarespain.com (305304)

PROPERTY WANTED

WWW.INTERMARBELLA.

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

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

PRIVATE BUYER looking for properties between Marbella to Malaga at realistic prices. Quick decision and cash purchase if suitable. Any condition but must be legal. Call or Whatsapp 0034606 526 618 (305263)

COM Costa del Sol Property Long Term Rentals All areas / All budgets / All types. Spain +34 951 708 422 UK +44 208 144 5008. Email info@ intermarbella.com (303052)

REMOVALS/STORAGE

15 CUBIC metre van returning to the UK 15th March 2024. Space available each way. Tel. 639 928 090 (305057)

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

2 MEN, Van €30 p hour. House Clearances & Storage. 651 081 610 moveit-storeit.com Tel David 696 810 618 (301129)

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

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

ROLLER shutter repairs, 7 days a week, conversion from manual to motorised, new installations. All areas covered. Coast and inland. 655 825 931 (303730)

SITUATIONS VACANT

PROPERTY LISTER to join our successful team operating in the Fuengirola/ Mijas area. Spanish speaking an asset. Not commission based. Lister will be paid for each property listed. Please contact Robert 608 764 774 or email robert@ araproperty.com (305378)

SOLAR

SOLAR Hot Water heating: FREE HOT WATER.  28 years installation history in Spain. Envirocare. All areas

& repairs. Special Winter Maintenance offer for Dec / Jan / Feb /Mar. Call NOW for more info 603 312 588 (304816)

TRANSLATORS

OFFICIAL TRANSLATIONS

All Languages. 952 789 204 Mobile 654 613 094 sanpe drotranslations@gmail.com (304238)

WINDOW TINTING

SOLAR PROTECTION

Vehicle rentals

IN a significant shift, the landscape of car rentals is evolving as the industry embraces digital documentation. The latest service, aptly named ‘DNI-Car’, is spearheaded by the collaborative efforts of the National Business Federation of Vehicle Rental (FENEVAL) and the General Directorate of Traffic. With over 10,000 vehicles already registered, this in novative approach is transforming the way we interact with rental paperwork.

The implementation of ‘DNI-Car’ required the issuance of clear instructions for the digitisation of rental vehicle documents. Additio nally, a virtual communication platform has been established to facilitate seamless interaction between car rental companies and users.

This transition holds promises of efficiency and convenience for renters. No longer burdened by physical paperwork, renters can expect a streamlined and eco-friendly process. The digital format not only reduces environmental impact but also ensures a quicker and more accessible experience for both parties involved.

The collaboration between industry stakeholders and traffic authorities signifies a commitment to embracing modern technology for the benefit of users. As the digital wave continues to reshape various sectors, the vehicle rental industry istands at the forefront of this transformative journey.

In conclusion, the introduction of ‘DNI-Car’ marks a significant milestone in the evolution of car rentals, paving the way for a more sustainable and user-friendly future.

Who’s the worst?

INTRIGUINGLY, a recent poll sheds light on the correlation between one’s profession and their driving habits, revealing some fascinating insights into the demeanour of various professionals on the road.

At the forefront of this revelation, doctors have been pinpointed as the most aggressive drivers. This finding might stir a bit of surprise, considering the calm and composed nature required in

sure environment and the constant race against time in their work could potentially spill over into their driving style.

Conversely, the poll finds hairdressers to encapsulate the opposite end of the spectrum, being dubbed the friendliest drivers. This could be attributed to the nature of their work, which involves engaging in pleasant conversations, fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere for their clients. Such traits seemin

more courteous and considerate approach when they’re navigating the roads.

These insights offer a fascinating glimpse into how the demands and characteristics of one’s job can influence behaviour in entirely different contexts. While the connection between occupation and driving habits might appear unexpected, it underscores the profound impact our professional lives can have on everyday actions, including how we handle the steering

Our

Misuse of indicators

THE correct use of vehicle indicators in Spain is a hot topic among British expatriates, often prompting numerous comments. But many have wondered what if any are the DGT fines for misusing turn signals.

The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) insists on the judicious use of turn signals to enhance road safety and imposes fines for non-compliance.

In its commitment to road safety, the DGT has set fines reaching up to €200 for drivers failing to use their turn signals where required. Additionally, if turn signals are not activated at the right time, the penalty may be as high as €80.

Paying the fine within 20 days of notification can halve the amount due. These measures highlight the DGT’s aim to curb accidents and promote orderly traffic flow.

Indicators, serve as a critical communication tool among drivers and pedestrians, signalling intentions to change lanes, turn, overtake, merge, stop, or park.

• In turns and changes of direction: It is mandatory to signal with the indicator before making any turn or change of direction on the road.

• When changing lanes: For example when we are on highways, the driver must signal sufficiently in advance to

Important to use your indicators.

alert nearby vehicles.

Credit: LastMan21/Shutterstock.com

• During overtaking: It is essential to indicate the manoeuvre with the corresponding turn signal before leaving the lane we are occupying.

• When entering traffic: Turn signals must be used to inform other drivers of the manoeuvre.

• At roundabouts: It is important to use signals when entering and exiting roundabouts to indicate direction and exit intentions.

• When parking or stopping: Thereby informing both other drivers and pedestrians travelling on the streets.

Habitually using indicators for every manoeuvre, ensures clear intent and integrates signal use into driving habits, safeguarding against penalties.

Paving the way.

Mazda 2 - worth adding to your small car pick list

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

IF you think of small cars then not unnatura lly cars like Ford’s Fies ta, Vauxhall’s Corsa and Renault’s Clio, plus others, spring to mind. One car that arguably gets overlooked is Mazda’s 2. It offers everything you would want from a small car but with the added bonus of Mazda’s reputation for quality.

Other Japanese car makers such as Honda all make small cars, but Mazda’s 2 is perhaps a more complete proposition. There’s a more obvious styling link to the larger models in Mazda’s line up.

outputs

The range offers four trim levels, petrol and hybrid powertrains with one engine option, a 1.5-litre petrol allied to either manual or automa-

75PS, 90PS and 115PS. Standard fare across the line-up includes climate, cruise control, powered and heated folding door mirrors, navigation, Car Play and Android Auto, auto lights and wipers, LED headlights, rear parking sensors, auto dimming mirror, engine stop/ start push button and

€21,744/£18,615 and my the-range Homura Aka at €24,955/£21,365, added

Facts at a Glance

• Model: Mazda 2 Homura Aka

• Engine: 1.5-litre petrol developing 90PS

• Gears: 6-speed manual

• Price: €24,955/£21,365

such items as black roof film, half-leather upholstery, privacy glass, smart entry and start, reversing camera and heated steering wheel.

I find the build quality on all Mazdas is superb and the cars, even at this entry level to their line-up, feels premium. The instrumentation displays, both in front of the driver and the central screen, are easy to assimilate when on the move and thankfully the Mazda 2 eschews the trend for mass digitalisation in favour of dials and buttons. Hurrah! These are so much easier, and safer in

• Performance: 0-100kph/62mph 9.8 seconds/Maximum Speed 183kph/114mph

• Economy: 4.7 l/100km/60.1mpg combined driving – WLTP

• Emissions: 107 g/km – WLTP

my view, to operate with little need to take your eyes off the road.

I found that over the hilly terrain here in the Derbyshire Peak District of the UK the 90PS unit needed copious use of the delightfully positive and slick six-speed manual gearbox. The ride quality is good and once on the move it can be quite good fun along twisty roads if you keep the revs high and gears slightly lower.

As mentioned earlier the Mazda 2 seems to fall under the radar, which given its many virtues is a shame. It offers something a little different to the standard small car choices and in terms of equipment a very good array of standard features.

It’s a car that’s as capable on longer runs as it is for a city runabout and well worth adding to your small car pick list.

Good choice of features.

Roy Hodgson retires

John

Smith

THE Premier League’s oldest manager, at 76, Roy Hodgson of Crystal Palace stepped down as manager of the club hours before their match with Everton on February 19.

He was taken ill a few days earlier during training and spent some time being examined in hospital before being released but clearly he had seen the writing on the wall.

It was always intended that he would retire at the end of this season after having (until recently) a successful return to the club which he first mana-

ged from 2017 to 2021 but results had suddenly gone against the club with 10 defeats in their past 16 Premier League games prior to his departure.

In a club statement announcing his departure, Hodgson said: “I understand, given recent circumstances, it may be prudent at this time for the club to plan ahead, and therefore I have taken the decision to step aside so that the club can bring forward their plans for a new manager, as intended for this summer.”

Having managed 17 clubs and four national

teams including Liverpool and England over a 48 year career, Roy Hodgson can certainly hold his head up high.

A new manager, the Austrian Oliver Glasner was in the stands to watch the 1-1 draw with Everton and whilst he may not be a well-known name in England, he previously found some success with Vfl Wolfsburg and then Eintracht Frankfurt who he led to the Europa League Final, which they won.

ANDALUCIA WALKING FOOTBALL LEAGUE

League and Cup Action

AWFL Over 60s League

AC Benahavis 7 v 5 Malaga WFC

The hosts very quickly got into their stride and in scintillating fashion scored four goals in the first 10 minutes and went in 6-0 up at half time! There seemed to be no way back for the visitors, but a change of personnel as the second half began and a couple of wicked deflections helped to put a different complexion on the game with Malaga pulling the score back to 6-5 with goals from Tony Johnstone, Bryan Richmond (2), Chris Burt and Steve Reynolds. Benahavis then knuckled down, stemming the tide and putting the game out of their opponents’ reach with the last strike of the match to seal a 7-5 victory and further cement their place at the top of the league. Benahavis scorers were Colin McGeary (2), Charles (2), Rob F, David O’Hara and Marc Morris.

Having been let go by Frankfurt in 2023, one year before his contract expired, the Austrian now looks forward to getting Crystal Palace back into winning ways especially if their two vital players Eze and Olise make a speedy return from injury.

Axarfusion Over 60s Cup

Real Calahonda 0 v 1 Malaga WFC

Although Real took a while to get going, once they did, Malaga were

firmly pinned back in their own half for long periods. However, the hosts were unable to capitalise on their sustained pressure and a Malaga breakaway earned a free kick, resulting in a well-struck goal from Mark Sargent. In the second half, try as they might and despite hitting the underside of the bar, Real could not break their visitors down and Malaga held on to secure their second cup win, putting them into the semi-finals. Real can still progress if they beat AC Benahavis in their next cup game.

AC Benahavis hosted Malaga team.