Mallorca 14 – 20 March 2024 Issue 2019

Sharing charity

IN an inspiring act of community solidarity, the Cala Nova Cancer shop in San Agustín has made a significant contribution to aid efforts in Ukraine.

Volunteers, including president Angela McGrath, have gathered a staggering 33 oversized rubbish bags filled with unsold winter clothes and foo-

On the buses

IN January, statistics show that Palma’s buses hit a record with 4.2 million passengers, a 36.3 per cent year-on-year increase, outperforming cities like Bilbao and Malaga. The metro also saw growth, carrying 143,000 passengers, up 28.1 per cent on the previous year. Nationally, public transport usage rose to 444.1 million, marking a 13.6 per cent increase.

twear suitable for men, women, children, and infants. This generous donation marks the change in the shop’s seasonal collections, moving from winter to spring.

As Mallorca welcomes the new season, everyone is encouraged to visit the shop at 354/356 Ave Joan Miro to discover spring

arrivals and support future charitable initiatives.

The items collected were destined for Amar Ukraine, initially based in Arenal, now expanding its reach to Calvia to aid those affected by the crisis in Ukraine. Donations don’t stop at clothing, there’s an urgent call for donations of babies’ nappies, as well

as unused medication. These necessities are critically needed and can be dropped off either in Calvia or directly at the Cala Nova Cancer shop for collection. This initiative not only supports Ukraine in its time of need, but demonstrates a strong commitment to global solidarity and local cooperation.

VW Golfers

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, interested parties are urged to book promptly to avoid disappointment. This occasion is an opportunity to blend the love for cars with the joy of community.

• Issue No. 2019 • 14 - 20 Mar 2024 FREE FREE

FREI GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS GRATUITO VRIJ LIVRE ILMAINEN G F E GRATIS GRATUIT S G Mallorca

Charity volunteers with donations for Ukraine.

Credit: Cala Nova Cancer Charity

CLASSIC CARS: Golf anniversary drive.

Credit: Classic Car Club Mallorca

MORE people than ever are enjoying mountain stays in Mallorca as the mountain refuges of the regional Council of Mallorca registered a total of 33,848 overnight stays in 2023,

This was 23.4 per cent up on the 2022 figure which itself was a record and the

network of shelters managed by the island council comprises six establishments located in public properties that offer 332 places.

The most popular ti-

mes of year for mountain walkers in Mallorca are spring (April and May) and autumn (October), when the refuges are fully occupied.

Overnight stays were in

great demand during the bank holiday week of December 6 to 8, almost twice as many people as during the same period of the previous year.

The lovingly restored

properties along the route are set in some of the most beautiful spots in Mallorca and it is advisable to book well in advance.

Walkers staying overnight in Mallorca’s refuges come from a total of 58 countries although by nationality, the Spanish make

Walking holidays Homeless help

up the greatest proportion of users, with 45.16 per cent of the total number of overnight stays registered in 2023,

Germans account for a quarter of those staying in the refuges with other Europeans making up the balance.

THE Institut Mallorquí D’afers Socials (IMAS, or the Mallorcan Institute of Social Affairs) is working to add around 100 places to the Social Inclusion Network of Mallorca.

The plan is that it should, in time, be able to offer its resources to any homeless person who requests assistance.

The first census since 2109, carried out last November by about 200 volunteers, revealed a total of 440 homeless people in Palma, either living on the streets or in inadequate housing.

IMAS is currently working on two tenders to incorporate around 70 places. The first tender is for the acquisition of a building with a capacity for 50 places for residential use and the second is to habilitate 20 places that will become permanent.

The aim is to develop a much more

SIX schools in Marratxi are diving into the spirit of environmental stewardship this week, as they compete to see which can recycle the most glass in the sixth edition of the ‘Els Petits Recicladors’ (The Little Recyclers) campaign. This initiative sees a total of 40 schools

individualised model of care focused on the specific needs of each person and to support deinstitutionalisation. The councillor for Social Welfare, Guillermo Sánchez, added that, at the same time, “we are also working on the acquisition of the Ca l’Ardiaca hostal, which will add more places in the public network and, at the same time, will allow us to carry out a reform of the facilities.”

Little recyclers

across 15 municipalities on Mallorca taking part, in a competition organised by the Council of Mallorca and Ecovidrio.

The schools will battle it out for a grand prize of €1,000 in school supplies. The campaign is designed

to instil a sense of responsibility towards recycling glass containers from a young age. A unique, themed container has been placed near each participating school to kick off the competition, which will run until May 30.

One of the homeless shelters.

Credit: marratxi.es

Expensive trip

A SPANISH driver, 28, was stopped by Palma Police following traffic offences. As he lacked the proper documentation, he verbally confirmed his identity with another person’s name. Upon further investigation, it was found he only held a moped license. The lie cost him a fine of €2,160.

Canine kiss

IN Palma, a German woman in her 60s needed medical attention after affectionately petting her own dog. The woman recounted how after having a drink and falling asleep, she awoke and gave her dog a big kiss on the lips, the dog responded by biting her lips leading to the woman’s hospitalisation.

In memory

ON Monday, March 11, Palma’s Placa de Cort observed a minute of silence, led by Mayor Jaime Martinez Llabres, marking the 20th anniversary of Madrid’s 2004 attacks, which saw 193 lives lost.

Gastronomic excellence

VORO, Mallorca’s only restaurant with two Michelin stars and two Repsol suns, reopens on Friday, March 15, under Chef Alvaro Salazar at Cap Vermell Grand Hotel. Offering a 24-seat exclusive dining experience, it highlights Mediterranean and Andalucian cuisine with a focus on local products.

Reservoirs fill

FOLLOWING the recent rainfall, Mallorca’s reservoir reserves, supplying Palma, have increased to 56.35 per cent capacity, a 3.54 per cent rise. The Cuber and Gorg Blau reservoirs also saw improvements.

Police recruitment

IN a signi cant move to enhance public safety in Palma, Mayor Jaime Martinez Llabres announced a major recruitment drive for the Local Police. A total of 55 new positions will be added, reversing past deciencies and bolstering the force’s capabilities.

The initiative, supported by major unions and set to feature in the next council plenary session, aims to address the shortfall created by the previous administration, which saw a re-

duction of 297 police roles. With the current force at 800 o cers, this increase

Rising rents

RENTAL prices in the Balearic Islands have soared by 17.3 per cent compared to last year, marking the region as Spain’s third highest in terms of rental price increases. February’s figures revealed an average cost of €17.15 per square metre, a 2.7 per cent rise from the previous month, making it the most expensive region for renters. Palma, saw an average of €16.66 per square metre, placing it fourth among Spain’s most expensive cities.

Despite a 1.6 per cent drop from January, Palma’s prices have climbed 13.7 per cent year-on-year.

Nationwide, the average rental price rose by 0.9 per cent to €11.32 per square metre. Ferran Font from flats.com highlights the interconnected nature of the housing market, pointing out the challenges of high purchase prices and government policies on the rental sector, which may affect property availability and market accessibility.

is a step towards providing the community with enhanced security and su-

pport. The selection process, to be managed by the Balearic School of Public Administration (EBAP), is scheduled to commence with training for successful applicants in October 2024.

Mayor Llabres emphasised the commitment to improving conditions for the police, stating, “Our security forces deserve to have all the human and material means to carry out their work in the best conditions.”

Star locations

MALLORCA is setting the stage for blockbuster magic, having hosted scouts from high-profile film productions such as ‘Dune’, ‘Game of Thrones’, and the upcoming ‘Gladiator 2’.

Over four days, the Mallorca Film Commission, led by Pedro Barbadillo, showcased the island’s diverse locales to some of the industry’s elite UK location scouts.

The initiative, part of a broader effort to position Mallorca as a prime filming destination, underscores the region’s commitment to sustainable, creative production.

The six visiting scouts,

Race deterrent

IN an e ort to combat noise pollution and unsafe driving in the Tramuntana mountains, the Consell de Mallorca has announced the installation of 34 advanced surveillance cameras.

Equipped with sound level meters, licence plate readers, and speed detectors, the cameras are aimed to enforce a more tranquil, not to mention

safer experience for road users. Scheduled to be operational by summer, the initiative hopes to address the long-standing concerns of residents and mayors of ‘uncontrolled races’ in the World Heritage Site.

“The council cannot impose nes, we believe the installation of these cameras will have an important deterrent e ect that will

improve coexistence in the Tramuntana mountain range,” said Fernando Rubio, Minister of Territory. A total of 38 cameras, with a signi cant number positioned along the Ma10 highway, will deliver collected data to the DGT, which holds ning authority. This collaborative measure aims to protect the natural beauty of Mallorca’s beloved mountains.

whose credits include ma-jor hits like ‘Inception’, ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’, ‘Mission Impossible’, ‘World War Z’ and ‘John Wick’, explored Mallorca’s picturesque settings, from the historic streets of Palma to the rugged beauty of the Serra de Tramuntana, along with locations in Andratx, Calvia, Soller and Pollenca.

This scouting mission, co-organised and financed by the Film Commission, promises to bring the island’s unique charm to audiences worldwide, further enhancing its cultural and economic landscape.

ON the evening of March 8, Palma City Council adorned Bellver Castle with a purple glow, commemorating International Women’s Day.

This historic Gothic forti cation, dating back to the 14th century, stood as a beacon of support for gender equality and women’s rights. Visible from vast stretches of the city, the castle’s purple illumination served not only as a tribute to the progress made in the ght for equal opportunities between genders but also as a reminder of the ongoing battle for true equality.

The choice of Bellver Castle, one of Palma’s most iconic landmarks, underscored the council’s dedication to raising awareness and celebrating the achievements of women across all spheres. This initiative was part of a broader programme of activities.

RECRUITMENT DRIVE: Palma’s Local Police.

Credit: noticies.palma.es

Real Estate Women and wine

John Smith

THE Real Estate market in Mallorca is quite different to that in mainland Spain according to long-time resident Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director at Taylor Wimpey España.

First and foremost, whilst on the mainland construction companies such as Taylor Wimpey tend to build large volumes of property, this doesn’t happen in Mallorca and their latest development, (one of six under construction on the island), Es Volor consists of just 13 two-storey townhouses.

This low volume high quality building strategy is working very well and Marc explained that sales of Taylor Wimpey properties in 2021, 2022 and 2023 were exceptional and the best in 65 years that the company has operated in Spain.

The majority of property that the company sells is generally to overseas

buyers looking to settle in Mallorca and there is not a great deal of residential tourism especially after Brexit as British buyers whilst still present have reduced in numbers.

Taylor Wimpey has during its busiest years sold to buyers from some 50 different nations and perhaps unsurprisingly, Germany supplies the largest number of buyers, although there has been a great deal of activity from Poles who are looking to move to the island.

Rentals are expensive

and purchasing affordable property can be difficult for local people with most builders concentrating on luxury properties and in Marc’s opinion the authorities should allow for taller properties to be built, especially in Palma and for large apartments often with four bedrooms to be turned into two, two bedroom properties.

Currently, the market is relatively quiet but as we move towards Easter, things will start to hot up but prospective buyers need to act early to reserve but be patient.

Due to various reasons including a halt on building during the tourist season, the properties on the Es Voltor development are unlikely to be ready to complete until the end of 2025, as what should be a 12-month build will take 24 months due to stoppages and a further three months to obtain final building certificates.

TO celebrate International Women’s Day, on March 8, Vi de la Terra Mallorca (wine from the geographical denomination of Mallorca) organised a brunch meet-up.

The idea was that winemakers, winegrowers, engineers, sommeliers and salespeople from the world of wine could swap stories about their daily business.

The discussions highlighted the need to find more women who are willing to take on responsible tasks in the wineries and estates where wine is grown, as well as in the distribution and marketing business.

It was also noted that women come to the sector with the necessary training to take on any of the responsibilities linked to the wine business, but that its working conditions need to be improved so they can reconcile work and family life and thus take on weightier roles.

During the meeting the women tasted a sample of the wines of the cellars of the IGP Vi de la Terra Mallorca and also those provi-

ded by some of the guests: La Placeta Blanc and Solpost Origen, from Cellers Sant Rafel, both from the DO Montsant.

Horse-drawn safety

IN an unprecedented move to bolster public and animal safety, Palma’s Mobility Area, has announced a comprehensive annual review for all 28 licensed horse-drawn galleys (carriages) this coming May.

This initiative is set to cover the galleys operating across three primary locations: the Cathedral area, Carrer del Conquistador, and Arenal, ensuring a city-wide emphasis on safety and compliance.

The upcoming reviews are detailed and stringent, focusing on both the welfare of the horses and the mechanical soundness of the vehicles. Each horse must be identifiable by a microchip and receive a health clearance from a licensed veterinarian, including upto-date vaccinations. The regulations extend to equipment, mandating licence numbers on harnesses and the exclusive use of rubber horseshoes, aimed at minimising discomfort for the animals.

With penalties in place for non-adherence, the initiative signals Palma’s commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and animal welfare in its historic galley operations. As May approaches, the city’s residents and visitors alike can look forward to safer, more responsible horse-drawn carriage experiences.

Marc Pritchard knows the Mallorca property market.

Celebrating International Women’s Day.

Credit: Vi de la Terra Mallorca

Prioritising human and animal welfare.

Credit: noticies.palma.es

Tap water truths

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.

Women-only ITVs

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.

RUN BY WOMEN: ITV station, Montijo, Badajoz.

Credit: AECA-ITV/YouTub

How safe is tap water?

Credit: New Africa/Shutterstock.com

Good neighbours

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.

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.”

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-

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.

Become a travel blogger

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-money-bywriting-about-living-abroad/

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.

Alan and Sarah Groves were commended for being good neighbours.

Rishi Sunak’s wife Akshata Murty hosted a World Book Day event on March 1.

IRELAND

Measles alert

THE Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) confirmed that it had received notification of a second measles case and was taking all necessary public health precautions to prevent an epidemic. The new case follows the death of a Westmeath man from measles in February, the first in more than 20 years.

Not a laugh

DUBLIN doctors were worried about the number of teenagers they treat for frostbite associated with oxide, better known as laughing gas. When transferring the gas from canisters to balloons before inhaling it, spilled liquid can cause severe frostbite burns consultant Paediatric surgeon Dr Catherine de Blacam said.

NORWAY

Super setting

OPENING scenes for the Superman remake, starring David Correnswet have been shot on location in Adventdalen, Svalbard, director James Gunn confirmed to the Svalbardposten newspaper. “There were a lot of things that sold Svalbard to us above the other places. For one, its natural beauty,” Gunn said.

Tragic fail

A SIKORSKY S-92 helicopter which crashed on a training mission to offshore oil and gas fields west of Bergen on February 28 would have stayed afloat if vital equipment had not failed, investigators concluded. A nurse in her 60s who worked for Equinor died in the accident and five people suffered minor injuries.

Lost and found

A WOMAN of 28 who vanished in October 2023 from a medical facility in Arevalo (Spain, where she was receiving treatment for mental health problems, was located by the Portuguese police on March 6. She disappeared after receiving permission to go for a walk and was said to be in good health when found.

Bank on it

A SURVEY of Portugal’s banking habits found that 53.4 per cent of the population had only one bank account while 29.5 per cent had two or more. The same study found that 59 per cent of the Portuguese habitually used contactless payments, second highest after the UK (69 per cent) and Spain (72 per cent).

EURO PRESS

NETHERLANDS

Harmful herbs

THE Netherlands’ Public Health and Environment Institute (RIVM) warned against mind-altering herbal supplement Tabernanthe iboga (ibogaine). The RIVM said even when used according to instructions it could disrupt the heart’s rhythm and had caused “dozens of deaths” worldwide, including some in the Netherlands.

ITALY FRANCE

Fine gesture

A FLORENCE municipal police chief paid a traffic fine for a jobless ex-employee of the closed GKN engineering plant who asked if city hall would suspend a €74 fine until he was able to pay it. As the fine could not be frozen, the officer said she would pay it herself “to demonstrate solidarity with GKN workers.”

Paint job

THREE climate activists in their 20s received eight-month suspended sentences for spraying the Senate building in Rome with orange paint in January 2023. The Last Generation members, who will elude jail only on payment of €60,000 in damages, announced that they would appeal “and keep going.”

It’s magic

THE Danish Customs Agency (Toldstyrelsen) stopped 921 attempts to smuggle psychedelic mushrooms into the country in 2023, more than double the 453 cases detected in 2022. The mushrooms were usually smuggled in the post, generally from the Netherlands but also from other countries, the Agency revealed.

Strong message

DENMARK’S currency reserves rose from 630.2 billion (€84.5 billion) to 636.7 billion kroner (€85.4 billion) in February 2024, underlining the country’s robust financial stability. International analysts said sent “a strong message” about Denmark’s resilience and expertise in managing its economic policies.

Hands-on

BRITISH artist Damien Hirst who dominated the UK art scene in the 90s launched an exhibition show of his works at Chateau La Coste, a 500-acre estate and vineyard located near Aix-en-Provence. This includes an on-site chapel due to open in 2025 that will feature a 30-metre high bronze hand pointing skywards.

Not fair

SEVENTEEN charities complained that the police were taking an over-tough line with Paris sex workers prior to next July’s Olympics and inflicting ‘heavy-handed’ identity controls. Officers would do better to focus on the criminal organisations which robbed, raped and assaulted them, a joint statement maintained.

FINLAND

Radar ruse

FINNISH meteorologists revealed that military exercises in northern regions of Finland, Sweden and Norway produced unusual images on radar observation maps on March 6. Apparent rain over Finland when none was falling probably originated, they said, in materials used to foil radar-spying by hostile neighbours.

Wages gap

OFFICIAL figures from Statistics Finland showed an overall 1.4 per cent reduction in January 2024 salaries when compared to those of 2023. Private sector wages were 4.3 per cent lower than a year ago, analysts found, although people employed in the public sector saw a 7.7 per cent increase during this same period.

SWEDEN

Not needed

POLICE in southern Sweden want a ban on sales of bulletproof vests, maintaining that they belong to war zones and bring fear to peaceful communities. Dismissing claims that they protected the young from gang warfare, police officer Patrik Andersson said he believed that body armour “has no place in Swedish society.”

Flypast

ESCORTED by two jets from the Swedish air force, two US bombers flew low over Stockholm, Arlanda and Uppsala on March 5. “We are doing this in a clear signal that we are protecting our national territory alongside our allies, creating safety and security for the Swedish population,” one of the Swedish officers said.

BELGIUM

Domino effect

FOLLOWING The Body Shop cosmetics chain’s collapse into administration in the UK, 20 stores belonging to its Belgian operation have now closed and gone into liquidation. Receivers in the Netherlands will be dealing with the bankruptcy as the shops were part of The Body Shop Benelux’s Dutch division.

Work it out

BELGIANS on permanent contracts worked 33.5 hours per week in 2024, compared with 31.8 hours in 2014, a study by HR experts Acerta found. Men now work 19 minutes more each week, amounting to an extra two days each year, but women work almost two hours more, equivalent to an annual 11 days.

Spy game

GERMANY’S ambassador to the UK, Miguel Berger, said former Defence Secretary Ben Wallace had fallen into a Russian trap by slating German intelligence over a leaked phone call where army officers discussed support for Ukraine. “This is what Russia wanted by publishing this phone conversation,” he said.

Hot stuff

ENGINEERS decided that Hartheim, Breisach and Bad Krozingen were possible locations for a geothermal heating project after discovering water-bearing layers between 2,500 and 3,200 metres below ground. They said the geothermal heat stored in these layers should be able to support a heating and distribution plant.

TABERNANTHE IBOGA: Don’t use it, RIVM warned.

I’m glad to be back

MIKE SENKER IN MY OPINION

WELL, well, look who’s back - Mr Grumpy! It might not be every week but I do have some catching up to do. OK let’s start !

I have had the same mobile phone supplier for 20 years. It’s changed names a few times and over the years it’s gone from one phone to two. Then I added an internet/ TV package and I’ve bought phones from them. When I changed to a new plan I got a free subscription to Amazon Prime and HBO Max, both of which are very handy.

So you can imagine how I felt last week when I got a message from Amazon telling me my subscription had run out. I know it hasn’t. My deal was as long as I kept the plan I was on, I would have these ‘free’ subscriptions. So all of you that know me, strap yourselves in for the bumpy ride following my reaction.

First I call Vodafone and after explaining the situation, the very helpful lady tells me she will have to report the problem to technical. They only speak Spanish and I don’t speak enough to have that type of conversation but she says don’t worry she

will interpret for me and they will call me back, which they do and after an hour they can’t solve the problem. We have changed passwords, we have used different numbers, we have even used a new email address. I’ve had six messages giving access numbers and nothing works.

So I phone Amazon - total waste of time - they just tell me it’s a Vodafone problem. This started on Tuesday and it’s now Friday. I am getting two or three phone calls a day and nobody can tell me what’s going wrong. They then let slip this is not an isolated case but is happening to lots of punters. I don’t know why this is so difficult for them to sort out.

I will keep you informed. But if any of you have had the same problem let me know please. Just as an aside three of the six different people that I spoke to on the English helpline may have spoken some form of English but I couldn’t understand a word they said and likewise they didn’t understand my cockney accent. Am I allowed to mention that or am I breaking woke rules? I really hope I am and I’m going to break a load more over the next few weeks.

Glad to be back.

Please email with your feedback Mikesenker@gmail.com

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

VIEWS OF A GRUMPY OLD MAN

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Talk quietly

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.

More woes

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.”

Tastes good

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.

New use

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.

Summed up

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.

€6 billion STAT OF WEEK

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.

Falklands contract

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

Cellnex plans

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

Portugal offer Naming names

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 down

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).

Vaccine factory Office orders

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.

Armed up

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.

BONDALTI

Photo credit: Cellnex.com

Photo credit: CC/August Schwerdfeger

ICONIC COMPANY: Harland and Wolff’s Belfast shipyard.

CELLNEX: Mobile phone tower network is Europe’s largest.

Windfall tax

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.

Long-term

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.

Where did it go

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

Morocco’s choice

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.

Pay rise

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.

Golden high

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).

at an early stage, the Telegraph said.

Photo credit: CC/Edwardx

It’s time to wake up

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.com

Berlin scores big

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.

INTERVIEW

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.”

trainer, and interior designer. She mentioned that transitioning was easy due to the “amazing expat community” of Valencia.

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.

Credit: Mira Pranger

Mira Pranger.

Mira works as an actress, personal

“We have friends from all over the world, a diverse mix.”

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.

OTHERS

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

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

CAPITAL CITY: Will see a significant boost.

• News Across The Regions •

Costa del Sol Well deserved award

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.

Axarquia Celebrity cheers

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.

Costa Blanca South Best in Europe

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.

Costa Blanca North La Nucia - to the future!

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.

Almeria

Almeria taking off

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.

Costa Calida Murcia lights up

THOUSANDS gathered in Murcia to enjoy an Alicante-themed celebration as the two regions united to host a San Juan festival. 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.

From March 8 to 10 Murcia transformed into an ‘Alicante-like city’ welcoming the mayor of Alicante. Festivities kicked off with a giant paella, distributing around 800 servings. On March 9 they enjoyed the traditional ‘mascleta’ a firework show, and a concert at Almudí Palace.

The celebrations concluded with the symbolic burning of the Murcia Bonfire.

Herbal health

SPAIN has a rich tradition of herbal medicine. There is still a great deal of knowledge about wild medicinal plants and most families have, or even make their favou rite remedies.

There are

1,376 wild plants in Spain which have been documented as having potential me dicinal uses. Only 8 per cent are classified as endangered, so most are commonly available and thri ving. 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 history, herbal knowledge and use of

plants as medicine is increasing, particularly after the global pandemic. This resurgence draws upon a body of knowle-

dge 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.

Nourish & soften

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.

Wild herbs growing

Credit: Photo by Ali Kargı: https://www.pexels.com

shutterstock

The gel from Aloe Vera plants can soothe sore lips

PETS

‘Coco’ alive after eight days

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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UK’s new pet ban

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.

Coco reunited with his owner after eight days.

Credit: BombersAjuntamentValencia/X

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Anthony Joshua bout

John Smith

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-

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.

Spain’s favourite sports

A COMPREHENSIVE 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.

Running is most popular.

Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou at the weigh in.

Credit: Anthony Joshua Facebook

Credit: Jacek Chabraszewski/Shutterstock.com