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Catherine McGeer THOUSANDS gathered in Murcia to enjoy an Alicante-themed celebration as the two regions united to host a San Juan festival in Murcia. San Juan is usually celebrated on June 24 for the Summer Solstice and Alicante celebrates the bonfires of San Juan from June 20 until June 24. The bonfires of Alicante are well-known for their tradition since ancient times and are declared of International Tourist Interest.
Over the weekend from March 8 to 10 Murcia transformed into an ‘Alicante-like city’ welcoming the mayor of Alicante. Festivities kicked off with a giant paella in the Plaza Julian Romea, distribu-
IN a heartfelt plea, MABS Mazarron, a prominent cancer support organisation, urgently seeks additional volunteers to assist in transporting cancer patients to and from crucial hospital appointments.
With the staggering statistic that one in two people will face the impact of cancer in their lifetime, the need for community support is more vital than ever.
MABS Cancer Support Foundation is committed to providing emotional and practical aid to those affected by cancer. If you can spare some time to make a difference, join MABS in their noble cause.
Contact mazvolunteers @mabscancerfoundation. org or call 634 362 954 for further information and to contribute to this essential mission.
ting around 800 servings of the typical dish. On March 9 they enjoyed the traditional ‘mascleta’ a firework show in Plaza Circular, and a concert at the Almudí Palace by the
Alicante Municipal Symphonic Band.
The celebrations concluded with the symbolic burning of the Murcia Bonfire, where they traditionally burn artistic mo-
numents made of wood, cardboard, cork, and paint. The monument that was burned was titled ‘La fiesta, esencia de Alicante’ (The party, essence of Alicante).
AGE CONCERN is set to host two exciting events for the community. The Age Concern Afternoon Tea & Bingo is scheduled for Wednesday, April 10, from 2pm to 4pm at the Social Centre on Camposol C Sector. Tickets, a steal at €5, offer a spread of home-made sausage rolls, sandwiches, cakes, scones, and more, complete with tea and coffee.
In addition, don’t miss the Crafternoon at Age Concern’s Social Centre on Tuesday, March 26, at 1.30pm. For just €5, participants can engage in a card-making masterclass, creating three beautiful greetings cards. All materials are provided, and the event promises a free-flowing supply of tea and coffee.
For reservations, reach out to ageconcerncostacalida @gmail.com or call 623 118 062.
SAN PEDRO DEL PINATAR concluded February with unprecedented hotel occupancy rates, breaking records for this month. The town experienced a 60 per cent occupancy rate in hotel rooms, with a notable increase to 65 per cent for higher-category hotels, highlighting a positive trend in the tourism sector.
This remarkable increase, compared to the 50 per cent occupancy in February 2023, reflects the success of efforts by various local departments and private entities in promoting off-season tourism.
Javier Castejón, the Tourism councillor, attributed the increase to the collective commitment to attracting visitors
IN a noteworthy milestone, the Ministry of Development and Infrastructure has officially handed over the keys to the Sustainable Sports Park in La Manga’s Estacio Canal to the San Javier Town Council.
The completion of this four-month project, aligned with the Sustainable and Integrated Urban Development Strategy (DUSI)
‘La Manga Abierta 365,’ (La Manga Open 365) marks a
throughout the year.
In February, local businesses benefitted from around 20 per cent of tourist vouchers issued by the Region of Murcia. Additionally, the Tourist Initiatives Centre witnessed a significant uptick in visits, welcoming 378 visitors, marking a 25 per cent increase from the previous year.
Castejón praised these figures, emphasising the positive impact on the local business community and the overall well-being of the town. The success in promoting off-season tourism is evidently yielding favourable results, benefiting both residents and entrepreneurs in San Pedro del Pinatar.
significant enhancement to the local community.
The 15,000-square-metre park now features state-of-the-art outdoor sports facilities, including basketball courts, a climbing wall, a seven-a-side football field, an athletics track, and a calisthenics park. Minister José Manuel Pancorbo emphasised the government’s
commitment to improving residents’ lives, stating, ‘This Sports Park is designed to be a natural hub for sports enthusiasts, open 365 days a year.’
Under the ‘La Manga Open 365’ initiative the park not only adds to the region’s tourist appeal but also provides a recreational space for locals.
Catherine McGeer EXCITEMENT soars in San Javier as plans for the return of the International Airshow Festival set to take place from May 3 to 5 2024, are unveiled.
The Tourism councillor announced the thrilling event, which will grace the skies above Santiago de la Ribera on the coast of Murcia with the participation of top aerobatic teams from across the continent.
The picturesque beaches of the Mar Menor will transform into a stage for aviation enthusiasts, visi-
tors, and residents.
The event usually draws thousands to the small town on the Costa Calida, many set up on the beach for the day, and enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of their sunbeds!
The event is not only great for aviation enthusiasts but also for local businesses.
Keep in mind the airshow may affect flights over these days and plan your trip with traffic of-
ten coming to a standstill around the town of San Javier and Santiago de la Ribera during the show.
Adding to the anticipation, construction is set to begin on the Aeronautical Cultural Centre for the Patrulla Águila, covering an expansive 5,000 square metres.
This centre promises to be an aviation hub where visitors can immerse themselves in flight simulations and much more.
THE International Ballet Company: Gala Solistas Ballet (Soloists Ballet Gala) will perform at the El Batel Theatre in Cartagena on April 28 at 7.30pm. Tickets start at €22 with discounts for the retired, students, unemployed, and members of El Batel.
THE WarmUp Estrella de Levante 2024 Festival will take place on May 3 and 4 at La Fica in Murcia. It will feature headline acts like Murcia’s own Arde Bogota. The Blaze, Editors, La La Love You, Tommy Cash, and many more.
THE Clubhouse Camposol hosts a variety of shows for its Saturday Dine & Dance. Coming up they have Neil Diamond a tribute show by JJ Jones and on March 23 Reb’s on the Rocks. To book call 602 420 167.
THE stunning Teatro Romea in Murcia will host a five-star rated magic show titled ‘Magia en Familia’ (Family Magic) on April 14 at 12.30pm. For tickets bacantix.com.
LOS Alcazares will host the European Kite Surfing Championship titled Formula Kite from March 16 until March 24. Sportspeople and their teams will travel from 40 different countries to take part in the competition.
THE cinema in Lorca Cine Almenara Lorca schedules a movie in its original version (VOSE) which is usually in the English language every Thursday at 6pm.
MURCIA, in collaboration with Aguas de Murcia the water company, is launching the ‘No Excuse, Just Drink It’ campaign to dispel citizens’ reluctance to consume tap water. Environmental and health bene ts, coupled with ‘absolute assurance’ of quality and safety, were highlighted by campaign organisers.
A promotional video, featuring local actor Carlos Santos and 10 other well-known personalities, systematically dismantles reasons cited for not embracing the water owing from over 200,000 taps in the city. A four-metre-high tap on Avenida de la Libertad in Murcia, along with an informational stand, contributes to the campaign’s visibility.
The campaign aims to alter daily consumption habits, emphasising the water’s mineral content (calcium, magnesium) essential for the body. The argument that tap water tastes bad can be easily addressed, suggested Envi-
ronmental councillor Antonio Navarro:
“Fill a glass jug with water and let it rest in the fridge for a few days.” He also hi-
IN a heartwarming turn of events, emergency responders successfully rescued a distressed dog from a well in the Mazarron area recently. The young dog, who has since been named Roux, had been callously thrown down the well, a shocking act that de es compassion.
The Local Police and re ghters, displaying commendable dedication, managed to pull Roux out unharmed, contradicting initial doubts about the possibility of such a rescue. Roux expressed gratitude to his rescuers in the best way a dog knows - with pure a ection.
Now, in the care of the charity Friends of Mazarron Animals, he is with foster parents pending adoption. Despite being underweight, dehydrated, and with a matted coat, he is expected to make a full recovery.
To continue aiding dogs like Roux, your support remains crucial in promoting a world where compassion triumphs over cruelty. To support Roux’s recovery and other animals in similar circumstances contact Friends of Mazarron Animals by emailing fma.mur cia@gmail.com.
THE Friends of Mazarrón Animals (FMA) association continues to make a positive impact on the lives of unwanted animals. FMA, a registered organisation, is dedicated to enhancing and improving the well-being of these furry friends.
To raise funds and awareness, FMA is hosting exciting events that promise fun and support for a great cause. The Easter ra e, set to take place on March 31, o ers par-
ghlighted economic advantages, noting 1,000 litres cost only €1, promoting sustainability by reducing plastic usage.
THE director of the International Jazz Festival of San Javier, David Martínez, unveiled the star-studded line-up for the 26th, much-anticipated music event. Iconic jazz gure Diana Krall, known worldwide for her warm and sensual voice, tops the bill. She’ll grace Jazz San Javier for the rst time.
Joining Krall are Tex-Mex band Calexico, whose unique sound draws from the border between the US and Mexico. Also, Cuban pianist Roberto Fonseca brings a festive homage to the golden era of Cuban music, blending mambo, rumba, and bolero.
Soul enthusiasts can look forward to the energetic Ste en Morrison from Amsterdam and a special tribute to the late amenco guitarist Paco de Lucía featuring Niño Josele and jazz harmonica virtuoso and Grammy award-winning Antonio Serrano.
The festival, running from June 28 to July 22, promises a diverse programme, including free outdoor concerts, emphasising the piano and guitar. Stay tuned for much information about the upcoming San Javier Jazz Festival.
ticipants a chance to win delectable prizes like chocolate, food, and alcohol. Tickets, priced at a mere €5, can be purchased at La Vista Bar, providing an opportunity to indulge in treats while contributing to the welfare of animals.
Following the ra e, FMA invites the community to their much-anticipated Fashion Show at
Zambucca. For just €3 per ticket, attendees can enjoy a fantastic afternoon with models showcasing stylish clothes and accessories, all while knowing that every penny goes towards caring for the animals under FMA’s watchful eye. Your support is invaluable in making a di erence in these animals’ lives.
MURCIA is set to embrace high-speed rail connectivity with Burgos and Valladolid starting April 8.
On this date, Murcia will initiate services connecting Burgos via AVE and Valladolid through Avlo.
Tickets for these high-speed journeys will be available in the coming days, o ering residents and travellers enhanced travel options.
The move establishes two daily connections between Murcia and Castilla y León, without altering existing routes. The AVE service to Madrid will extend its route to Burgos, while the Avlo service will cater to the journey to Valladolid.
Despite these expansions, Murcia will maintain its current daily trips to Madrid.
THE line-up for the ‘Best Burger in Spain 2024’ competition has been revealed, featuring 15 contenders, including an entry from the reigning champions of 2023, from the Region of Murcia - the ‘MISOYAKI’ by Tokio Burgers in Bullas.
The grand finale was to be held in A Coruña. The event will showcase the finalist burgers with a blind tasting by the esteemed panel, including Madrid Fusion’s President Jose Carlos Capel, culinary communicator Alejandra Ansón, and Michelin-starred chefs Pepe Solla, Fernando Agrasar, and Iría
Espinosa.
The awards ceremony will follow at the MEGA, the Museum of Estrella de Galicia in A Coruña, where accolades will be announced, and the top three burgers in Spain, including the winner, will be revealed.
Regional winners will also be disclosed. This year, 24 burger joints from Murcia participated, with customers casting over 250,300 votes and 130 inspectors evaluating 350 restaurants.
CORVERA Airport is gearing up for a busy season with 24 confirmed routes, including the exciting addition of Marrakech. Airlines have announced their flights for the April-October period in the region, featuring seven domestic routes, and expectations are high for further expansions. The season kicks off in late March and runs throughout October, with the possibility of more routes being added during peak times.
Noteworthy highlights for the spring and summer include Volotea’s substantial increase in national offerings, covering six destinations, and Ryanair’s strong return with nine routes. The airport aims to surpass one million passengers this year, striving to reclaim pre-pandemic traffic levels after welcoming 878,000 travellers in the previous year.
UP:
Tokio Burgers’ ‘MISOYAKI’ features a 100-day aged beef patty, miso and ginger BBQ sauce, crunchy bacon, double American cheese, pickled ginger relish, Chinese scallions, and teriyaki cheese cream.
Notably, Tokio Burgers’ ‘Tik Toker’ will also represent Murcia in ‘The Champions Burger’ final.
The standout addition to the route map is Marrakech, complementing the existing connections to Oujda and Casablanca, reflecting a growing demand from the region’s Maghrebi population and the attraction of Morocco’s tourism.
IN a landmark decision, the Spanish Ministry of the Environment has proposed a hefty fine of €1.105 million for G’s Spain, a multinational headquartered in Torre Pacheco, over environmentally
With plans for at least 82 weekly flights during the peak season, Corvera Airport anticipates a 10 per cent increase compared to 2022. The confirmed routes are: AIR ARABIA: Oujda, Casablanca, Easyjet: London Gatwick, London Luton, Manchester, Bristol, Ryanair: London Stansted, London Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, East Midlands, Dublin, Bournemouth, Glasgow, and Marrakech, Tui Fly: Antwerp, Bruges, Volotea: Asturias, Barcelona, Bilbao, Madrid, Menorca, Santander, Charter: Porto.
damaging discharges into the Mar Menor. The company is held responsible for the release of brine with high
levels of agricultural nitrates between 2012 and 2016 through two illegal desalination plants. The plants were dismantled by authorities during large-scale operations targeting pollution in the Mar Menor.
The brine spill, equivalent to 767 Olympic-sized swimming pools, contained elevated concentrations of salt and nitrates diverted to the Albujón riverbed. The water, extracted from the degraded aquifer in Campo de Cartagena, irrigated 435 hectares of crops across 75 plots. Investigations revealed that the sealed desalination plants expelled untreated brine directly into the Albujón riverbed and subsequently into the Mar Menor.
G’s Spain is implicated in the initial phase of the Topillo case, where it emerged as the primary contributor of brine rejection into the lagoon.
IN a groundbreaking move, the Murcia Council has greenlit a €24.3 million contract for the initial phase of Murcia’s multimodal transport hub in the Logistics Activities Zone
(ZAL). Aiming to ease road congestion and promote eco-friendly transport, the terminal will link with the Mediterranean Corridor.
With 70 per cent funded by the Community and
the remaining 30 per cent from the Connecting Europe Facility, this investment marks a step toward more sustainable logistics.
The ZAL project, embedded in the 2024 Community budget, allocates over €29 million for the AgriFood and Transport City, Murcia’s railway connection, and a truck parking facility. Meanwhile, the Free Warehouse consortium has invited proposals until March 21 for the Transport Centre and Free Warehouse in Los Camachos, part of the ZAL.
Additionally, the council approved a substantial investment of €238 million for the University of Murcia and the Polytechnic University of Cartagena, an €18 million increase from the previous year. This boost aims to support public universities in managing rising Social Security contributions and meeting research and teaching staff needs.
IN a coordinated effort led by airport management Aena, over 300 people, including emergency responders and actors, participated in a mock airplane crash exercise near the international airport in the Murcia Region (Corvera Airport). Emergency services from the region took part in the simulation, evaluating the effectiveness of emergency plans and coordination among various agencies.
The scenario simulated a passenger plane making a forced landing about 4.5 km from the runway, resulting in 100 occupants (95 passengers and five crew members) with various injuries. Airport services, first on the scene,
assessed the gravity of the situation and called for external assistance.
The Murcia Region activated its Territorial Civil Protection Plan and the Sanitary Sector Plan. Regional administration contributed firefighters and vehicles from the Consortium for Fire Extinguishment and Rescue of
HELP Murcia Mar Menor is a charity that loans out mobility equipment in return for a reasonable donation and deposit (cash only).
You can borrow walking sticks, crutches, rollators, walking frames, toilet raisers, shower stools, commodes, wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
The office is to be found at Calle Pene-
the Murcia Region to the intervention group. The health group included personnel and ambulances from the Emergency and Health Management of 061.
The simulation also involved activating facilities for assisting victims’ families, who received support from airport staff.
lope 11, Los Narejos. (behind restaurant A Estribor).
For more information call: +34 968 570 059 or email: helpmmm@gmail.com.
Opening hours are 10 - 12.30 Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
RECENTLY, Dario Bressanini, a chemist and science communicator, tackled the misconceptions surrounding Spain’s tap water during a presentation.
There is a common perception that bottled water is safer and healthier than tap water, particularly in regard to its lime content, blamed for kidney stone formation.
However, Bressanini emphasised the nutritional benefits of limestone-rich water, highlighting its essential minerals like calcium and magnesium.
Bressanini’s insights, supported by the Higher Institute of Health, refute the idea that tap water contributes to kidney stone formation.
He went on to explain that the concentration of calcium in domestic drinking water does not contribute to the formation of kidney stones, dismissing the common fear that tap water might be harmful.
This clarification challenges the widespread preference for bottled water in Italy, underscoring the general safety and suitability of tap water for consumption.
The Organisation of Consumers and Users (OCU) has also weighed in, advocating for tap water over bottled water based on cost and quality.
Despite this, many opt for bottled wa-
ter due to taste preferences or the hardness of their local tap water. The OCU’s ranking reveals cities like Burgos, Vigo, San Sebastian, and Las Palmas leading in tap water quality, with Madrid, Granada and Leon also scoring high.
Conversely, cities such as Zaragoza Ciudad Real, Palma de Mallorca, Huelva, Logroño and Barcelona face challenges with water hardness and taste, prompting recommendations to drink natural mineral water with low mineralisation in these areas.
A UNIQUE ITV station in Spain has made headlines for being staffed entirely by women, a significant milestone in the traditionally male-dominated industry.
The vehicle technical inspection (ITV) sector in Spain has witnessed considerable progress towards gender equality. Currently, women constitute about 21 per cent of the workforce in ITV stations, a figure significantly higher than in past years, as reported by AECA-ITV.
This includes 6 per cent of women working as inspectors and 16 per cent in engineering roles. Furthermore, women make up 31 per cent of the management staff and a remarkable 71 per cent of the administrative staff. Despite these advances, the journey towards full equality is ongoing.
The Montijo station in Badajoz stands out as a
beacon of change in this evolving landscape, where the staff of eight are 100 per cent women. Directed by Sonia Santo, the station is pioneering a female-driven approach, that ‘10 years ago was unthinkable.’
“We wanted to bet on a station run only by women, to give them the possibility to demonstrate that women can do this work under the same conditions as a man,” Santo explains.
This initiative not only showcases the capabili-
ties of women in the sector but also aims to foster an environment of equal opportunities.
It emphasises the shift in perceptions, with customers no longer surprised to see women in these roles.
The Montijo ITV station is a singular example of how gender equality is being pursued within the sector. While it represents a significant step forward, it is just the beginning of a broader movement towards achieving parity between genders.
John Smith
TO mark World Book Day which took place in the UK on March 7 (as opposed to April 23 in other countries) Euro Weekly News has been asked to alert readers to a great opportunity.
There is a long history of best selling books about moving to another country and two of the top 10 chosen by PropertyGuides.com, Driving Over Lemons by Chris Stewart and Snowball Oranges: One Mallorcan Winter by Peter Kerr amusingly relay two epic stories of settling
in Spain.
Property Guides, has a network of expatriate writers who keep their audience of would-be overseas property buyers inspired, informed and amused and EWN readers are being invited to join in and if successful will be offered the chance to write a minimum of 12 blogs over one year and will be paid £100 per article
If you have moved to Spain or are just about to and would like to write about your experiences, visit https://www. property guides.com/earn-mo-
ney-by-writing-about-livingabroad/ to get some ideas and then enter your article of 500 to 1,000 words on any aspect of moving to your new home and submit by the closing date of May 1, 2024
To qualify you need to be a native English speaker who has moved abroad in the past 10 years, or are about to.
You should be prepared to cover the details of your move, including property buying or rental, getting visas and just dealing with the everyday in your new country, with accuracy and verve.
IN the last edition of Euro Weekly News, we announced the winner of Age in Spain’s latest winner of their Good Neighbour Award.
She is Alison Brophy, of Corralejo, Fuerteventura, who created ‘Stronger Together’ an organisation which exists for the benefit of non-Spanish residents.
There was a very strong field of finalists and a number of people were awarded special commendations and among them were Alison’s friend Elaine Berry, who is President of Stronger Together and helped Alison set it up.
Elaine has worked with the Spanish courts as a legal translator and has also helped the British Consulate and several holiday tour operators when visitors have met with difficult circumstances while on holiday.
She commented that she has developed a specialism - helping people cope with bereavement, guiding people through all that is involved and arranging funerals, cemetery arrangements, dealing with the banks and with the deceased’s will.
Similarly, Alan and Sarah Groves of Villena, Alicante were nominated for the assistance they gave a grateful neighbour following the death of her husband.
Sarah said “My own experience in losing both parents in Spain taught me what is involved, and I have used that experience to help others.
“The speed with which burials and cremations must be arranged in Spain can make it di-
Alan and Sarah Groves were commended for being good neighbours.
fficult for people who are not familiar with the system and have no family support on hand. Spanish people depend on their families in times of crisis like this. Others don’t have that support.”
Giulia de Santo Wood lives in Iznajar, Cordoba, a community she describes as 50 per cent Spanish and 50 per cent incomers of different nationalities, particularly British and Dutch. She arrived in Spain eight years ago and “not being someone to sit back and do nothing” immediately got involved in helping others.
She accompanies people as their interpreter to hospital visits, helps people through bereavement, goes to house viewings, helps when a car has broken down. She was nominated for doing all the things that a good neighbour might be expected to do and received commendation.
DESPITE what the CO2 alarmists would have us believe our glorious planet has been warming up for thousands of years. Although the air polluting emissions released by the vehicles and factories of modern society are certainly unacceptable, the prophets of alarmist doom have managed to have us all running around like headless chickens in pursuit of worldwide solutions that are not only near impossible, but despite what Saint Greta and her followers (who have been somewhat silent of late) would have us believe, is rather like throwing a cup of water on a forest fire!
What we should be doing is concentrating on an adaptive response to the potential advantages of global warming. It is my belief that all things in creation have an equally positive and negative side - Ying Yang, Newton etc. If this were not the case the whole planet and all that reside on it would have disintegrated eons ago. With this in
mind, I decided to do a little research into the positive effects of so-called global warming. The results were eye opening to say the least. According to reports some 70 countries or more stand to gain by the changes in our climate. In the main, countries that exist further to the north of the planet are those set to benefit the most.
Russia’s Siberia and Alaska could likely become vast fertile areas that could be developed at extremely reasonable cost. China would also profit by bringing rain to its northern drought areas and easing the flooding in the south. Canada, most of the Netherlands, Iceland and even further north, are all set to benefit as the earth’s temperature warms up.
Unfortunately most of Europe and the southern most parts of the USA don’t fare so well. Flooding, monsoons, tornadoes, crippling heatwaves and severe weather fluctuations will be the order of the day. None of this is a present day phenomena. Human civilisation goes back some 10,000 years or so. Over the last 400,000 years, long before we started changing the planet, there have been several periods of warming
and cooling. Ice core readings show that CO2 measurements have at times been 10 per cent higher than current levels, with global temperatures similar and even lower than they are today. There is simply no correlation between the two events. Left wing and Liberal governments believe power to stop climate change rests in controlling people; their solutions to the problems always give more power to ever growing government bureaucracy. Well I don’t buy it.
While we are succumbing to the pathetic brainwashed protesters and illogical electric transport innovations, the West is slowly but surely being taken over by Eastern forces that are assailing from all sides and on all levels. Using every opportunity to take advantage of our ridiculous mistaken priorities, non-Europeans are infiltrating Western civilisation at a far more dangerous rate than global warming or CO2 emissions. Time to wake up and tackle the true problems that threaten our existence on this wonderful planet.
Keep the faith.
Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail.comLee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
THE countdown to Germany’s biggest sporting event of the year, UEFA EURO 2024, is nearing its peak. March 5 marks just 100 days until the opening match in Munich.
Berlin, the capital city, is expected to see a significant economic boost from UEFA EURO 2024, with an estimated €90m in economic activity.
Visitors won’t just come for the football; they’ll also explore the city’s attractions, go shopping, and enjoy cultural activities.
Burkhard Kieker, CEO of visitBerlin, is thrilled to welcome visitors from around the world, saying, “What could be better
than welcoming Europe to the biggest football event of the year! We’re setting up the world’s biggest football goal in front of the Brandenburg Gate. We’re not just rolling out the red carpet for football fans but the green pitch.”
Berlin anticipates around 2.5 million football fans during the tournament, with approximately 1.9 million visitors from 120 countries.
Air travel bookings for UEFA EURO 2024 have already surged, and hotel room rates are rising.
The average rate in March 2024 is currently €181 but is expected to reach €253 in June.
High quality of life
MIRA PRANGER is Dutch but has lived in London for 13 years, and spent the past year and a half in Valencia.
FINDING daily life a challenge, Mira and her husband decided to move out of London.
“London was getting too expensive and we couldn’t have a good quality of life there.”
Mira’s husband is half-Spanish and Valencia was already dear to them, being the location of their first holiday together.
“I love Valencia! It is so much calmer than my life back in London, and it’s definitely what I needed,” said Mira about her move.
trainer, and interior designer. She mentioned that transitioning was easy due to the “amazing expat community” of Valencia.
“We have friends from all over the world, a diverse mix.”
Mira works as an actress, personal
Mira also has Spanish friends and is learning Spanish: “We have a friend group of proper Valencians, and they introduce us to the city and the culture.”
Mira confessed that in Spain, she found a “high level of life quality,” uncomparable to anyplace else.
TWO years after its launch
Rupert Murdoch’s TalkTV is to be taken off air amidst heavy losses that were not helped by the departure of one of its star turns, Piers Morgan. Scott Taunton, TalkTV’s president of Broadcasting said that by early summer, the channel would now be focusing on online streaming.
MOODY’S, which rates the creditworthiness of companies and governments, “quarantined” Barcelonabased pharmaceuticals company Grifols already under attack from short-seller Gotham City. Moody’s said the company and its subsidiaries were under review owing to “poor results, its governance risk and refinancing.”
GREGGS staff will share a £17.6 million (€20.57 million) bonus as the bakery chain sells ever-increasing amounts of pasties and sausage rolls. After a year which saw 2023’s profits climb to a record £188 million (€219.7 million), the company said that it had no plans to introduce further price rises in 2024.
BTECH, owned by EV motors, has acquired all of the Decarbonisation Hub in Barcelona’s Zona Franca industrial area after buying the remaining 40 per cent from electric vehicle manufacturer QEV Tech. The reindustrialisation of the old Nissan plant will pave the way for producing the first 50 Zeroid cars, BTech said.
KPMG was fined £1.5 million (€1.75 million) by the UK’s Financial Reporting Council (FRC) for ‘basic’ failures in its 2018 audit of advertising firm M&C Saatchi. KPMG partner Adrian Wilcox must also pay £48,750 (€56,982) after M&C Saatchi found accounting errors which required a restatement of its accounts.
is the announced 2026 sales target for Spanish multinational Indra which leads in the electronic defence sector and reported revenues of €4.34 billion in 2023.
Linda Hall
HARLAND & WOLFF are in line for a multimillion contract to build a port in the Falkland Islands.
The Belfast-based shipyard, remembered for building the Titanic, was its “preferred bidder” the Falklands’ government announced after putting out to tender the contract for a new floating dock in late 2023.
The company explained on March 5 that the contract was subject to final negotiations on pricing and commercial arrangements but would be worth between £100 million (€116.9 million) and £120 million (€140.3 million) spread over two years.
The Falklands deal provides a further boost to the fortunes of Harland and Wolff which had to close a subsidiary in 2022 over an unpaid £92,275 (€107,839) tax bill.
The non-payment was an administrative error, insisted Harland, which
shortly afterwards saw an improvement to its fortunes on winning a £55 million (€64.3 million) contract to revamp a Lithuanian minesweeper formerly owned by the Royal Navy.
The company, founded in 1861 by Edward Harland
SPANISH multinational Cellnex Telecom is selling its Irish subsidiary to Phoenix Tower International for €971 million.
The telecommunications infrastructure company, whose network of mobile phone towers is the largest in Europe, said on March 5 that it was reviewing its portfolio and would “focus on core markets and businesses.”
Cellnex is setting its sights on revenue of between €4.5 and €4.7 billion by
2027, excluding energy costs, which will be passed on to clients.
This represents an average annual growth rate of 6 per cent, with adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation of between €3.80 and €4 billion, averaging 7 per cent.
The company will be introducing a cost-efficiency plan aimed at improving profitability and intends to return cash to shareholders through dividends and
CHINESE fast fashion company Shein’s plans to list in London could be affected by not naming a physical owner.
All UK companies must declare a human “person with significant control” (PSC) but Shein UK’s filing lists Singapore-based Roadget Business as its PSC.
The omission was spotted by Dan Neidle, founder of the Tax Policy Associates thinktank, who has now notified Companies House that Shein had failed to list an individual.
Shien, valued at $66 billion (€60.56 billion) said it was “grateful” that the error had been brought to its attention.
“We are currently working to rectify this,” a spokesperson said.
IBERICA has launched a takeover bid for Spanish chemicals manufacturer Ercros.
The subsidiary of Portugal’s principal chemicals manufacturer, Bondalti, would pay €329 million, offering €3.60 per Ercros share, a premium of 40.6 per cent on March 4’s closing price of €2.56.
Bondalti Iberica’s proposal requires acceptance of more than 75 per cent of the share capital as well as authorisation from both the Spanish government and regulators.
Should the transaction go ahead, the Ercros headquarters would remain in Barcelona, as would all jobs at the company’s facilities in Catalonia, the Valencian Community, Aragon, and Madrid.
The deal would allow Bondalti “to anticipate the challenges facing the European chemicals industry,” the company said.
and his German business partner Gustav Wolff, then went on to share a contract to build supply ships for the Royal Navy.
The existing Port Stanley dock that Harland installed in 1984 is now obsolete, and work on its replacement is likely to begin later in 2024.
Involving the construction, transportation and installation of four 90-metre floating pontoons, work will be shared amongst the shipbuilder’s multiple facilities. Its four sites in Belfast, Devon, Scotland and Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides all have the capacity to build the pontoons, a company statement said.
buybacks between 2026 and 2030, it said.
The Cellnex statement added that earlier payouts might be possible, depending on its debt ratio and credit rating.
SPENDING on drinking outside the home fell 1.4 per cent in Spain in 2023. The decline - the first since the pandemic - was due to higher prices in bars, cafes, restaurants and hotels, especially for beer and bottled water. Both rose by 9 per cent, said market data analyst Nielsen, attributing the cutbacks to the increased cost of living.
Bars and cafes saw the biggest difference, Nielssen said, where people spent 3.3 per cent less on drinks, while hotels and restaurants noticed a fall of 1.6 per cent.
In contrast, nightlife venues saw a slight increase of 0.8 per cent.
ASTRAZENECA, which was instrumental in developing Covid vaccines during the pandemic, will spend £450 million (€526 million) on a new vaccine hub in Liverpool.
The ‘green’ factory in Speke will be powered by renewable energy, revealed the pharmaceutical company.
It is also allocating a further £200 million (€233.8 million) to expanding its life sciences research laboratories in Cambridge, where it plans to build an additional facility.
The announcement of the new investments coincides with AstraZeneca’s talks with UK government ministers to secure public funding of around £100 million (€116.9 million).
AFTER 17 years of private ownership, Boots is preparing to return to the London Stock Exchange, Boots’ owners, the US-based Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA), believe that a £7 billion (€8.18 billion) valuation could return it to the FTSE100, Bloomberg said in December 2023.
Meanwhile, thousands of Boots UK staff must work a five-day week in the office, as director Seb James told staff that he was determined to make the company more efficient.
The new regime will affect office workers in London, Nottingham and Weybridge.
A DELEGATION from Spain’s Ministry of Defence visited India, seeking €5 billion in naval, aeronautic and electronics contracts.
New Delhi wants to sever its traditional ties with Moscow by looking for technological partners capable of helping it to become less dependent on outside expertise and develop its own arms’ industry, Defence sources explained in Madrid.
After negotiations lasting 10 years, Spain has already agreed to supply India’s air force with 56 Airbus C-295 transport planes, delivering the first of the €2.1 billion order last September.
THE UK’S Chancellor Jeremy Hunt expects to raise £1.5 billion (€1.75 billion) by extending the windfall tax on North Sea oil and gas profits, which will now end in 2029 instead of March 2028. The tax was introduced in May 2022 when producers’ profits soared as gas prices rocketed following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
DESPITE Ford’s ERTE furlough scheme which laid off Almussafes (Valencia) workers until the end of March, the car manufacturer has long-term plans for the plant. “We are producing the Kuga and intend to do so for many years,” insisted the director of Ford’s electric vehicle division, Martin Sander.
Linda Hall
THE BODY SHOP administrators are investigating claims that millions were removed from the business before its collapse last February.
The Telegraph revealed that FRP, which took over the cosmetic chain’s British arm after it fell into administration, is exploring allegations of unaccounted-for funds prior to the sale to private equity group Aurelius. The investigation remains
BODY SHOP: Stores are already disappearing
PUBLICLY-OWNED Spanish company
Ineco will design the extensions to Casablanca’s international airport.
The Moroccan National Airport Office (ONDA) has awarded Ineco the €500,000 contract to draw up plans for extending and remodelling Casablanca’s two terminals as well as its ramps and runways.
The project is an important one for Morocco, as the airport will see vastly increa-
sed traffic in 2030 when it will be hosting the Football World Cup together with Spain and Portugal,
Although French companies have traditionally dominated Morocco’s infrastructure market, Ineco also developed the country’s air navigation system. The company, attached to the Transport Ministry, has previously designed airports in Spain, Greece, Colombia and Mexico.
Figures seen by the Telegraph have shown that The Body Shop’s UK division posted profits of £19 million (€22.2 million) on revenues of £163 million (€190.5 million) in the period before its collapse.
These figures covered The Body Shop’s 198 shops across the UK in 2023 but not the costs incurred by the company’s global operations.
FRP revealed that when the company went into administration, figures which included The Body Shop’s operations outside the UK showed a 2022 loss of £60 million (€70.14 million).
The chain’s apparent financial vigour could prompt questions regarding the circumstances surrounding the company’s decline into administration and Aurelius’s role, the Telegraph said.
LUIS GALLEGO, chief executive of IAG, owner of British Airways and Iberia amongst other airlines, obtained his first pay rise after taking over from Willie Walsh in 2020 and riding out the pandemic. Gallego received €979,000 in 2023, 4 per cent more than the previous year, as well as €2.95 million in variable pay which depended on IAG’s performance.
THE price of gold remains historically high amid investors’ fears of continuing Middle East tension and the assumption that the US will cut interest rates by the summer. On March 5 its price reached $2,141 (€1,965) for an ounce at one point, overtaking the previous record of $2,135 (€1,959) in December 2023 before falling back to $2,128 (€1,952).
THE COSTA CALIDA property market is experien cing a steady rise, making it crucial for both buyers and sellers to find a trusted currency exchange ser vice. Lumon, an experienced player in this field, shi nes brightly with its reliability and swift international payments, earning the trust of its clients.
With a commitment to stellar service and a per sonal touch, Lumon has expanded its reach across the Iberian Peninsula, as evidenced by the inaugu ration of its new office in Los Alcazares. CEO Vic Darvey emphasises the significance of this miles tone, highlighting Lumon’s strength and ambition to evolve.
The opening of the new office presents a golden opportunity for British expatriates in the Mar Menor and Costa Calida. Lumon’s reputation for offering competitive rates and secure transactions precedes it, making it a go-to destination for various currency exchange needs, from property transactions to daily expenses abroad.
Costa Calida is the perfect location for the new office as it stands out as an enticing destination for property investment due to its Me diterranean climate, scenic coastal landscapes, and excellent accessibility via international airports and road networks. Offering relatively affordable property prices compared to other coastal areas in Spain, the region presents a diverse property market catering to various preferences and budgets, from beachfront villas to modern apartments. Boasting a high quality of life with abundant amenities, including restaurants, shops, leisure facilities, and healthcare services, Costa Calida provides residents with a fulfilling lifestyle.
With Spain’s stable political environment, well-established legal framework, and robust infrastructure, investors can have confidence in the reliability of the market, making Costa Calida an attractive choice for those seeking to capitalise on Spain’s vibrant real estate opportunities.
Central to Lumon’s success is its emphasis on cultivating enduring relationships with clients and partners. This commitment to personalised service has earned Lumon a solid reputation, making the opening of the new office a strategic move in further consolidating its position in the market.
Lumon’s expertise extends beyond mere currency exchange; they facilitate property transactions, cover living expenses overseas, and streamline payments for goods and services. Recognising the importance of simplicity and efficiency in currency exchange, Lumon ensures a seamless experience, whether through in-person consultations or online transactions.
The celebratory event marking the inauguration of the Los Alcazares office saw Lumon’s dedicated team, including representatives from their London headquarters, coming together. The presence of esteemed partners like Pinar Properties underscores Lumon’s standing within the industry and its commitment to fostering mutually beneficial collaborations. To have an idea of their
“
The CEO said the opening of the new location is a declaration of intent that we are strong and our business continues to expand.
it has had an impact on how he manages the business, having customer satisfaction at the core centre of the business values.
huge reputation and impact it is worth mentioning that Lumon works with over 2,200 referring partners.
Probably the secret to their high level of client retention is due to their professional, knowledgeable and friendly team. There are currently more than 5,000 verified five-star Lumon reviews on Feefo and Trustpilot, and they point out that they still provide services for clients who signed up in their first year of business 20 years ago. It’s certainly remarkable.
The event was held in the vibrant square where the office is located. The team, other partners, businesses and individuals came to celebrate the big moment. The neighbours Fresco bistro bar catered the event with delicious fresh and local products like olives, cheese and other tapas, alongside other beverages. An ideal event for the special launch.
Vic Darvey articulates the strategic significance of the new location, situated in the vibrant 525 Square, as a catalyst for Lumon’s accelerated growth. This locale, renowned for offering British expatriates exceptional value for their investments, holds immense potential for Lumon to expand its clientele and consolidate its presence in the region.
Darvey stands out as a CEO, having more than 25 years of experience working with different international consumer brands. He has held senior leadership positions across several businesses including PurpleBrick, MoneySuperMarket and lastminute.com . He loves spending time with his family and there is no doubt that
For those contemplating currency exchange and seeking optimal value for their money, Lumon emerges as the ideal choice. With a track record spanning over two decades and over 69,000 satisfied clients, Lumon stands as a model of trust and reliability in facilitating Mediterranean relocations while safeguarding clients’ financial interests.
Lumon wants their clients to realise the benefits of using a specialist international payment provider over a bank. With extensive experience they can deliver unbeatable services and benefits to their partners and clients.
Some of the benefits which Lumon stands out for are: savings compared to bank exchange rates, fast and secure payments, free consultation with market specialists, currency market insight, access to currency risk mitigation tools, knowledgeable dealers available to deliver timely information, clear and simple processes and simple and secure online trading platform.
Lumon’s dedication to excellence, personalised service, and strategic expansion positions it as a leading player in the Spanish property market and beyond. As the region continues to attract international investors, Lumon remains steadfast in its commitment to providing top-notch currency exchange solutions and fostering long-lasting relationships with its clients.
Lumon is poised to assist businesses and individuals from the outset, providing outstanding service with a familiar and friendly approach. Their dedication to understanding each client’s unique circumstances ensures a seamless and excellent experience. Lumon will make your currency exchange journey hassle-free and efficient.
WE are based in Horley town centre, just five minutes’ drive from Gatwick airport and a short walk to Horley mainline railway station.
On offer is a range of cars starting with small everyday cars and up to family-sized vehicles to include manual and automatic transmission. We also have a variety of both petrol and diesel fuelled engines. All cars are well maintained and presented in a clean condition.
We have full 24-hour AA breakdown cover. The most popular brands used include: Ford, Vauxhall, Nissan, Citroen and Renault.
We meet our customers just outside the arrival terminal at Gatwick Airport at the authorised collection points at both the North and South terminals. We will then drive to the car rental office in Horley town centre, where the paperwork and payment are processed followed by a demonstration of the car controls and directions to the motorway if required.
The collection procedure is very efficient, taking a small amount of time
A range of cars are on offer.
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ANNE BOWLES, member of la Cala Lions, was surprised and honoured to receive an award from Ana Mata, the mayor of Mijas.
Anne was selected with five other ladies to receive an award for their services to the community at a gala event in Mijas celebrating International Women’s Day.
Ana Mata, said, “Anne Bowles, founder of the diabetes group of the Lions Club of La Cala, has been chosen for her more than 20 years of raising awareness about this disease.”
After thanking the mayor, Anne explained that the award was only possible because of all the enormous help La Cala de Mijas Lions Club have given to her and her late husband Frank in the fight to raise awareness of the hidden causes of diabetes.
THE charming Rula Lenska, a renowned British actress and TV personality, added a touch of glamour to the Trapiche weekly market recently. The lovely Rula, with her unmistakable grace, was spotted indulging in some wine shopping at the bustling marketplace. Notably, she chose to explore the delightful offerings at ‘Tastes of Spain & Olé’. The actress known for her roles in Coronation Street, Minder, Special Branch, and much more was happy to stop, chat, and take pictures with fellow shoppers.
The Trapiche market is held every Tuesday from 9.30am to 1.30pm, at Carretera de Benamargosa, Km 0.5 29719 Trapiche (Malaga), El Trapiche. There you can find, artisan products, handmade gifts, fruit and vegetables, local businesses, and second-hand stalls. For more information call 627 877 164 or email TrapicheMarket Spain@gmail.com.
THE Golf 50 Anniversary Drive, organised by Gaston Westphal of Classic Car Club Mallorca, promises to be an exhilarating journey for motoring enthusiasts. Scheduled for Saturday, March 23 at 10.30am, the event will celebrate half a century of passion for the iconic German marque.
Participants can expect a scenic drive, culminating in a delicious three-course lunch at the picturesque Restaurant Ca N Josep Ca Vostra in Port de Pollenca at 2.00pm. At €40 per person, with a small additional fee for non-members, the gathering not only offers a feast for the taste buds but also an opportunity for petrolheads to indulge in the car’s rich heritage.
Due to limited seating, people are urged to book promptly to avoid disappointment. This occasion is an opportunity to blend the love for cars with the joy of community.
THE city council of La Nucia released its budget for 2024, amounting to €31.8 million of investment in the future of its residents.
The annual budget has increased by 1.4 per cent from last year.
The mayor of La Nucia, Bernabe Cano, announced the allocation of €2.1 million to projects of the Department of Social Welfare.
“At the end of 2024, we will begin the construction of the third school,” revealed Bernabe Cano.
Alongside the school building, the mayor highlighted the improvement of the city’s infrastructure, with the creation of a new drinking water tank and the expansion of the water treatment plan.
The city’s new sports complex, Edifici de I´Es port, is also to be complete.
ALTHOUGH no-one could claim that Almeria Airport is a gateway to the world, it will have many more flights to new destinations effective from March 30.
During the winter period it serves 11 destinations, but after Easter that is going to expand with many additional destinations being served.
According to the latest news, internal flights will take you to Asturias, Barcelona, Bilbao, Madrid, Melilla, Palma de Mallorca Santiago de Compostella, Sevilla, Valladolid and Zaragoza with some flights cheaper than catching a train!
As far as international flights are concerned, the UK is the busiest destination with flights to Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, London Gatwick, London Stansted and Manchester. Other European destinations include Brussels, Luxembourg, Paris, Prague and Rotterdam.
ONCE again, Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport has proven itself by winning the title of the best airport in Europe in its category. This is the fourth time it has achieved this award.
The Airports Council International (ACI) awards this honour, which shows the airport’s commitment to providing excellent services and facilities.
The airport’s success is measured through the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) programme, which relies on feedback from travellers, which gives a clear picture of their satisfaction with the airport’s services.
Laura Navarro, the director of the airport, highlighted the airport’s dedication to prioritising passengers’ needs and mentioned the ongoing efforts to improve facilities and services to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for every traveller.
SPAIN has a rich tradition of her bal medicine.
There is still a great deal of knowledge about wild medicinal plants and most families have, or even make their favourite remedies.
There are 1,376 wild plants in Spain which have been do cumented as having potential medicinal uses. Only 8 per cent are classified as endangered, so most are commonly available and thriving. Families collecting small parts of the plants for their own use has no measurable effect on the species overall survival. Spain’s flora is diverse and, due to small farm production rather than agricultural monoculture, widespread.
Far from being lost to cultural his-
tory, herbal knowledge and use of plants as medicine is increasing, particularly after the global pandemic. This resurgence draws
upon a body of knowledge which, until the late 1950s, was the foundation for self-care and healing in the country. The use of natural herbal remedies to boost health and well-being is no longer confined to villages. It is becoming increasingly popular in our towns as well. A visit to your local ‘Herbolaria’ (herb shop) can be an interesting way to learn more.
CHAPPED lips are a common woe, therefore embracing natural remedies can offer effective relief and restore softness to your lips. Begin by staying well hydrated, as dehydration can exacerbate chapping. Regularly apply natural oils such as coconut oil, almond oil, or olive oil, which possess moisturising properties. Beeswax-based lip balms with added natural ingredients like shea butter or cocoa butter provide a protective barrier against dryness. Gently exfoliate your lips with a homemade sugar scrub to slough off dead skin cells, promoting smoother lips. Aloe vera gel, known for its healing properties, can be applied to soothe and repair chapped skin. Lastly, maintain a nutrient-rich diet, including foods high in vitamins A and E, which contribute to overall skin health. By incorporating these natural remedies into your routine, you can nurture your lips back to a supple and healthy state, ensuring a comfortable and beautiful smile.
THE remarkable story of Coco, a cat from Campanar, Valencia, suggests there might be some truth to the old adage that a cat has nine lives.
On Friday, March 1, firefighters discovered Coco alive amidst the debris on the 13th floor of the burned-out building after the devastating fire eight days ago.
The fire engulfed the residential complex in Campanar, leaving utter destruction in its wake. Among the affected was Andrea, Coco’s owner, who lived on the 11th floor. The discovery of Coco, two floors above her apartment has baffled everyone on how he managed to survive the inferno.
Coco is now safely back with Andrea, who gave way to tears during the emotional reunion. The circumstances of Coco’s survival remain a mystery, which only serves to add to the mystique of cats’ reputed nine lives.
The search team, while combing through Andrea’s apartment, stumbled upon Coco, who was found hiding in a niche with water outlets from the dry column of the building and after a visit to the vet was found to be in good health.
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ON Tuesday, March 5, the UK government announced a revolutionary change, prohibiting the domestication of primates as pets.
This ground-breaking law, effective from April
6, 2026, will require that anyone wishing to keep primates must adhere to stringent welfare and licensing criteria up to zoolevel standards, in effect banning the practice of keeping primates as pets.
The initiative aims to enhance the lives of an estimated 5,000 primates currently housed in UK homes. These animals, known for their intricate social and welfare needs, often suffer in inadequate domestic environments.
Animal Welfare Minister Lord Douglas-Miller stated, “We are proud to have some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world, including these new restrictions which will help tackle the inadequate conditions that some of these inquisitive creatures are kept in.
“Anyone who fails to provide the same welfare standards as found in a zoo faces a fine and having the primate removed from their care,” he added.
This law is a continuation of the UK’s commitment to animal welfare, following the Action Plan for Animal Welfare unveiled in 2021.
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FORMER two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua made short work of his latest opponent Francis Ngannou in Riyadh on the evening of March 8.
This was only Ngannou’s second professional bout having moved over from mixed martial arts but the French-Cameroonian had given current world champion Tyson Fury a bit of a fright in his first match which he just lost on points in a split decision.
Joshua had a point to prove and when he stepped into the ring for his 31st professional fight he was all muscle and ringcraft.
He needed to make this a real fight if he wants to return to the upper echelons of world boxing and fight for another world title and he had to do it quickly and efficiently.
He caught Ngannou with a beautiful straight right two minutes into the first round which saw the un-
Credit: Anthony Joshua Facebook
derdog hit the canvas but he recovered from that and carried on boxing.
Come round two and near the end, a right then left put Ngannou back on the canvas and then, looking shaken he returned to his feet to literally walk into an overhand right punch which knocked him out and the doctors were called in to the ring immediately with the fight over.
He eventually came to and congratulated Joshua who had earlier called him an African Giant and added that he should continue boxing despite this loss.
A
study by Spsg Consulting unveiled the sporting preferences across Spain in 2023, showing a clear inclination towards certain activities.
The findings, derived from over 1,000 participants, reveal that 22.5 per cent favour running, significantly outpacing other sports. Football was the next choice, with 17.9 per cent participation, closely followed by swimming at 17.6 per cent.
These figures highlight the dominant sports trends in Spain last year, with cycling also making a notable appearance in fourth place with 13.7 per cent.
2023 saw a concentration in the popularity of a few sports, with traditional activities gaining momentum. Running surged back to levels seen in 2021, capturing over 20 per cent interest.
However, football’s participation slightly decreased, trailing by two percentage points from its 2021 peak.
On the other hand, CrossFit emerged as a revelation,
claiming 3.5 per cent of respondents, an increase from previous years. Similarly, athletics saw a rise, from 3.6 per cent in 2021 to 5.6 per cent in 2023.
One surprising statistic saw golf quite low in the results, gathering only 1.6 per cent of those who were quizzed.
The study also highlighted gender disparities in sports choices. Men predominantly preferred running, football, cycling, and paddle tennis, whereas women showed a greater inclination towards swimming.
Specifically, 24.8 per cent of men chose running over 19.6 per cent of women. Football saw a significant gender gap, with 26.4 per cent of men participating compared to 7.5 per cent of women.
Interestingly, the sports that captured the most attention did not necessarily correlate with participation levels.
Football led as the most followed sport, with an 83 per cent viewership.
Basketball at 39 per cent and tennis with 38 per cent were also popular among spectators.
Motor sports also feature strongly with Formula 1 claiming 18 per cent and motorcycling with 11 per cent.