Axarquia 21– 27 March 2024 Issue 2020

Charity Craft Fayre

Catherine McGeer

THE recent Caritas Craft Fayre held in Competa proved to be a resounding success, raising a commendable €900 in support of the Caritas charity’s initiatives. Caritas, a globally recognised charitable organisation affiliated with the Catholic Church, operates locally from its office above the Social Services Office on Avenida de Constitution.

The funds generated from the event will exclusively benefit people and families within the town of Competa, providing essential assistance without discrimination. Caritas’s mission includes various forms of aid, including the provision of basic food supplies, assistance with medication and vaccinations, support for educational needs such as school books, and access to clothing through their charity shop.

Moreover, Caritas extends its support beyond material aid, offering companionship and care to the sick and elderly in their homes, as well as visits to residential care

homes and hospitals. The organisation fosters a sense of community and familial support, with many recipients staying

connected even after moving away, reflecting on the enduring impact of Caritas’s assistance during their times of need.

Blue trails

IN a ceremony held in Las Rozas, Madrid, the mayor of Nerja José Alberto Armijo proudly accepted flags distinguishing two blue trails in the town. Awarded by the Association for Environmental and Consumer Education (Adeac), these flags symbolise the commitment to sustainable tourism and the value of these routes in promoting outdoor activities and environmental education.

Accompanied by Councillor Javier Rodríguez and Environmental Technician Alberto Portillo, Mayor Armijo received the accolades for the Pico del Cielo and Cueva de Nerja-Almijara trails. Nerja stands out as the only town in the province of Malaga boasting two trails honoured with blue flags.

Armijo emphasised the significance of these distinctions, citing them as prime examples of sustainable tourism. ‘These trails not only offer locals and tourists a unique opportunity to revel in our municipality’s natural beauty but also play a crucial role in environmental awareness, conservation, and protection,’ he stated.

The event was also attended by José María Domínguez, the manager of the Nerja Cave Foundation, highlighting the collaborative efforts toward environmental responsibility in the area.

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Image: Deborah Haywood

Caritas Craft Fayre makes a difference in Competa.

OVER 1,000 bikers from 14 clubs in the province will take to the streets of Rincon de la Victoria. The Sports and Culture Councils of the Rincon de la Victoria Town Council, in collaboration with the Torresol Neighbourhood Association of Torre de Benagalbon, have unveiled details of the third Biker Meeting, scheduled for April 13.

This year a significant increase has led to over 1,000 bikers confirming their attendance, doubling the figure from the previous event. This growth is attributed to the rise of new clubs, totalling 14 from the province.

Councillor for both areas, Antonio José Martín, ex-

Biker rally

pressed his enthusiasm by stating that this year’s gathering will surpass all previous expectations, consolidating the event as ‘a benchmark biker meeting.’

The day, starting at 11am will feature a motorcycle route through the main avenues of the town, starting and ending at the old Railway Station of Torre de Benagalbon. Additionally, the esplanade will host various activities, from a popular paella for approximately 800 people, to live performances and a DJ playing music from the 80s and 90s. The awards

ceremony for participating clubs and the distribution of gifts will be the final highlight.

Easter Fayre

APAA Nerja Dog Rescue is holding its Easter Fayre on Saturday, March 23, from 11am to 3pm. The event promises a mix of fun and furry companionship at Marazul by Fitzgeralds on Avenida Mediterraneo. The fayre offers an opportunity for animal lovers to interact, learn about adoption, and support the noble cause of animal welfare. With pet-themed stalls, a Tombola, cakes, gifts, toys, and much more, the event promises a delightful outing for families and pet enthusiasts alike. Join APAA Nerja in their mission to find loving homes for these deserving rescue dogs.

Coastal crisis

Catherine McGeer

THE mayor of Almuñecar, Juanjo Ruiz Joya, has raised concerns over the ‘regrettable’ condition of the Aquatrópic sea wall in Velilla. He demands that the Spanish government ‘take responsibility and finally solve this problem, which has persisted for over six years.’ Accompanied by the councillor for Environment and Beaches, Lucia González, Mayor Ruiz Joya inspected the deteriorating state of the breakwater near the Aquatrópic water park. He denounced ‘the deplorable situation it’s in, which has led to the collapse and disappearance of the path bordering the park on its southern side.’ Moreover, he stated, ‘It’s even more serious as it has forced a business where over five families from Almuñecar were employed to close and evacuate due to the danger posed by its facilities.’

Ruiz Joya emphasised

that they’ve been dealing with this issue for many years, urging action from the Ministry of Ecological Transition and the Directorate General of Coast and Marine Environment. Despite numerous appeals, he lamented their lack of response.

In a political plea, Mayor Ruiz Joya urged the Socialist government to intervene. He concluded by highlighting that repairing

the sea wall and path would allow affected families to return to work and restore the beauty of this corner of Almuñecar.

Rural tourism capital

COMPETA has been announced as one of the top contenders for the esteemed title of Rural Tourism Capital 2024. Competing against nine other finalists from across the country, including Altura in Castellon and Artajona in Navarra, Competa seeks to clinch the coveted title.

Until April 15, residents and enthusiasts alike have the opportunity to cast their votes, influencing the outcome of this prestigious competition. This year marks the eighth year of the Rural Tourism Capital contest.

The winner, both the destination and the participant, will be unveiled on April 18, sparking anticipation and excitement among Competa’s residents and supporters. With competitors hailing from regions such as La Rioja, Asturias, and Guadalajara, the competition will be fierce.

Cómpeta invites everyone to rally behind its bid, urging supporters to vote and help secure its position as the epitome of rural tourism excellence in Spain for 2024. Voters will have the chance to win a getaway and a €100 fuel voucher courtesy of BlaBla car. To vote go to the website: esca padarural.com.

Mayor demands action on coastal decay.

Image: Almuñecar Town Hall

Rincon race

THE Costa Rincon-Vithas Malaga Popular Race is set to take place on May 5, featuring an 8 km route along the town’s coastal path. With proceeds benefiting the Sweet Dreams association, around 500 participants are expected. Registration opened on March 19, on dorsalchip.es.

Mobile unit

THE mobile unit for early detection of breast cancer will be stationed in Rincon de la Victoria until June 19 at Plaza de la Constitution. Women aged 50-71, with appointments received via mail, can participate. For inquiries, contact 677 007 017 or info@cribadoenandalucia.es.

Cruise season

THE 2024 cruise season kicks off in Motril with 39 scheduled stops, expecting over 60,000 passengers and 28,000 crew members. An investment of over €50,000 introduces an efficient shuttle system between the Port and Motril’s centre.

Todo Ayuda

CONTRIBUTIONS from NaturVets and their supportive clientele amassed €104 for the Todo Ayuda Project, affording 48 tins of Royal Canine Puppy Mousse. The charity extends an invitation for more establishments to host collection tins.

Art lecture

THE Arts Society Nerja announced their upcoming lecture on April 9 at 6pm titled ‘The Disruptive Power of Art: Banksy and Ai Weiwei.’ The event will be broadcast live from Centro Cultural Nerja and accessible via Zoom, offering in-person and virtual attendance options.

Catherine McGeer

NERJA’S Municipal Exhibition Hall welcomes a prominent display of works by Ceuta-born artist Diego Canca. The exhibition, inaugurated on March 15 in the presence of Nerja’s Culture councillor, Ana María Muñoz, and Deputy Mayor Ángela Díaz, promises a feast for the senses until March 31.

Born in 1948, Diego Canca’s artistic journey began early in life, with a passion for art. This showcase marks Canca’s debut in the province of Malaga, presenting a prime opportunity to appreciate an artist who masters hyperrealism like no other.

Diego’s work is renowned globally, with exhibitions spanning New York, Berlin, Frankfurt, Ghent, London, and, notably, the Iberian Peninsula. During the exhibition, the artist himself will grace the Nerja Exhibition Hall, offering insights

Nerja’s exhibit

Volunteer call

ARE you looking for a meaningful way to spend your spare time? The Velez-Malaga branch of the Cruz Roja (Red Cross) is on the lookout for enthusiastic volunteers to join their English-speaking group. Covering the entirety of the Axarquia region, volunteers play a vital role in various community services.

Tasks include accompanying individuals to medical appointments, arranging the loan of mobility aids, providing support during Social Services appointments, and assisting vulnerable members of the community with tasks like shopping and visits.

Additionally, the organisation is seeking a Volunteer Coordinator. This role requires a valid driver’s licence and a good grasp of Spanish.

If you’re interested in making a di erence, please reach out via email to axarquiasocial@cruzroja.es for further details. Your help could be the lifeline someone desperately needs. Join us in spreading kindness and support throughout the community!

Phoenician Routes

IN a bid to delve into the rich history of the Axarquia region, Velez-Malaga proudly inaugurated the rst-ever ‘Phoenician Route’ along the coastal stretch of Axarquia. This journey traces the footsteps of Phoenician settlements in the Axarquia, speci cally within the towns of Velez-Malaga and Algarrobo.

Led by Mayor Jesús Lupiáñez, in collaboration with Culture councillor Alicia Ramírez and Algarrobo’s mayor, the initiative began with visits to iconic landmarks like MUVEL, the Fortress, Toscano, Trayamar, and Mezquitilla.

The mayor emphasised the signi cance of reconnecting with the region’s ancient roots, marking this inaugural event as the beginning of a series to be continued throughout the year. The ‘Phoenician Route’ promises not only historical insights but also cultural enrichment, o ering locals and visitors a chance to explore the fascinating legacy of Phoenician civilisation embedded within the coastal landscapes of Axarquia.

Seismic activity

RESIDENTS of Axarquia were jolted awake by a seismic event registering 4.3 on the Richter scale late on March 15, followed by up to 14 aftershocks into early the next day. The quake, originating in the southern Alboran Sea region, primarily a ected Melilla inhabitants, with tremors felt across coastal towns in Malaga, Granada, and Almeria.

Although its epicentre

lay in the southern Alboran Sea, the quake’s impact reverberated as far as Jaen. Melilla residents reported a prolonged shaking lasting several seconds, rating the intensity at level III. Surrounding areas, including Torrox, Torre del Mar, and Velez-Malaga, also felt the quake at intensity levels IIIII.

Cities like Malaga and Alhaurin El Grande expe-

rienced minor tremors, as did Almuñecar, Roquetas de Mar, and Aguadulce. The seismic activity, part of a heightened period in the Alboran Sea, began on March 13, with multiple smaller tremors preceding the main event. Aftershocks, including magnitudes of 3.5 and 3.2, continued throughout the weekend, felt particularly in Melilla’s vicinity.

THE Tourism councillor, Ana María Muñoz, has revealed that hotel occupancy in Nerja during February reached 77.40 per cent, with some establishments even surpassing 90 per cent. Last year’s February hotel occupancy was 66.56 per cent. Muñoz highlighted Nerja’s consistent leadership in hotel occupancy in the province of Malaga, starting the year with 73.66 per cent in January, according to data from the Hotel Entrepreneurs Association of the Costa del Sol (Aehcos).

Looking ahead to Easter, Muñoz expressed optimism, citing reservations already exceeding 90 per cent in some establishments. This trend underscores Nerja’s appeal as a tourist destination and suggests a promising season ahead. The town’s scenic beauty, cultural attractions, and hospitality infrastructure continue to attract visitors.

CELEBRATING MASTERY: Diego Canca’s art exhibition.

Image: Nerja Town Hall

Grace Meredith VELEZ-MALAGA authorities are diving into the details of a proposed Park Project for Torre del Mar and Almayate, presented by GENA-Ecologists in Action. The project, supported by the Velez Society of Friends of Culture and the Axarquia Climate Emergency Group, has gained traction through media coverage, social media, and various activities like rallies and signature collections.

Initially introduced on February 18, at the Torre del Mar Town Hall, the project underwent a detailed discussion on March 11 with Mayor Jesús Lupiáñez and other local officials in Velez-Malaga.

The initiative’s primary aim is to establish a forested

area resembling a wild, natural woodland in non-urban land between the levees of the Velez River delta, near Torre del Mar and Almayate.

This envisioned space will incorporate diverse habitats,

footpaths, and bird and reptile observation points, along with a collection of native and climate-resilient exotic trees. The plan includes dune regeneration along the coast.

LUX MUNDI APRIL EVENTS

LUX MUNDI are sorry to advise that the coach trip to Gibraltar which was planned for Tuesday April 9 has had to be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.

However, there will be a coach trip to Cabra on Thursday April 18. Please join us on the excursion to Cabra, a municipality in the province of Cordoba with great monumental heritage, situated in the foothills of the Sierras Subbéticas Natural Park. It is full

of buildings, small streets and monuments of interest. There will be a stop for coffee along the way, arriving in Cabra at approximately 11.00am for a guided tour in English. After the tour there will be free time for further sightseeing and to have refreshments before departing at 16.30. Tickets from the Centre: €36 with a friends card and visitors €40. Basic travel insurance included. Proceeds for fundraising. Pickup times: Al-

garrobo (Lidl) 08.15, Caleta (Vets) 08.20, Torre del Mar (Bus station) 08.30.

A Taize Prayer will be held on Friday April 26 at the Parish Church of San Andrés, Torre del Mar. Time after the Mass.

Lux Mundi Ecumenical Centre, Torre del Mar. Opening mornings only Wednesday and Friday 10.00 till 13.00. For further information please contact Tel. 952 543 334 E-mail: luxmun di@lux-mundi.org .

not only highlighted sporting talent but also brought attention to the noble cause of rescuing and rehoming abandoned and abused dogs.

GENA asserts that besides mitigating climate change effects by cooling temperatures, the project would enhance biodiversity and safeguard the protected wetlands at the Velez River mouth.

During the meeting, Mayor Lupiáñez and council members expressed keen interest in initiating a dialogue with the ecologists. They agreed to conduct an extensive study of the project’s viability.

AT Añoreta recently the spotlight shone brightly on the APAA Nerja Dog Rescue Charity. Amidst a golf competition, Sean and Roz Brittain sponsored the ‘Nearest the Pin’ contest on behalf of APAA Nerja, adding a philanthropic touch to the event.

Golfers Jayne Needham and Bob Bennett emerged victorious in the Nearest the Pin challenge, showcasing their precision on the course. This charitable initiative

APAA Nerja, a registered animal charity, has been tirelessly working towards this cause, having successfully rehomed over 1,000 dogs. Supported by dedicated volunteers and with two shops in Nerja, the charity’s efforts extend beyond rescue to fundraising, event organisation, and even the regular Sunday morning dog walks.

As the Añoreta Golf Club Championship unfolded, the presence of APAA Nerja Dog Rescue Charity served as a reminder of the importance of compassion alongside competition.

Fun event

OFFICIALS in Malaga have announced that water-saving measures may ease up if sufficient rainfall occurs following the extension of Marbella’s desalination plant.

The long-awaited upgrades to the Marbella desalination plant, advocated for decades by the Western Costa del Sol Municipalities Association, will ensure potable water supply along the Malaga coast until late summer. Public company Acosol currently has water supply assurances until early July, even in the absence of spring rains. With 12 cubic hectometres of desalinated water, guarantees will extend until September 1.

The Andalucian Government revealed that the improvements outlined in the new drought decree will increase Marbella’s desalination plant capacity to 20 cubic hectometres.

While this capacity will be reached by year-end, 12 cubic hectometres will be available for this summer.

Recent widespread rains have significantly improved water reserves in the province’s seven reservoirs, now totalling 110 cubic hectometres, a 13unit increase from the previous week.

Public company Acosol reports that the La Concepción reservoir holds 19 cubic hectometres, up by 3.6 from a week ago, now at 33 per cent capacity.

Even La Viñuela, the province’s largest reservoir, has increased its reserves by 2.7 cubic hectometres, rising from 8 to 9.6 per cent capacity.

THE Royal British Legion Nerja Branch will be celebrating St George’s Day on Saturday April 20 from 2pm at the Marazul Hostal, Avenida Mediterraneo 2, Nerja (The New Fitzgeralds).

A fun afternoon is planned with games, food and drinks.

There will also be a tombola stall and all gifts and donations will be greatly appreciated.

Your support for this annual event is essential as all proceeds will go towards this year’s Poppy Appeal.

For further details please contact Dorothy on 643 212 944 or 951 834 488.

NatGeo recognition

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC has just unveiled its list of the top 20 beaches in Andalucia, and Almuñecar beach has claimed a well-deserved spot. Among the wonders of Almuñecar’s nearly 20 kilometres of coastline lies La Caletilla beach, nestled right in the heart of the town next to the Natural Monument of Los Peñones de San Cristóbal or del Santo and beneath the Castle of San Miguel, which boasts remnants of its Roman, Moorish, and Christian past.

with the Argaric culture, Almuñecar’s true origins are steeped in history.

Dating back to 1,500 BC in the Bronze Age

Lorry plunge

A LORRY carrying butane tanks accidentally plummeted into a swimming pool in a residential area of Rincon de la Victoria. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident, prompting the response of the Provincial Fire Consortium (CPB). Initial reports from the Malaga

Additionally, other notable beaches recognised by National Geographic include Playa de Calahonda in Nerja (Malaga), Costa de Maro in Nerja (Malaga), Playa de Calahonda in Motril, Playa de Bajamar in Velez-Malaga (Malaga), and Playa de Burriana in Nerja. These beaches collectively showcase the diverse and stunning coastal landscapes of Andalucia highlighting Axarquia and the Costa Tropical as an area blessed with beautiful beaches.

Provincial Council suggest that the lorry driver had halted the vehicle during their work rounds on Calle Isla Cristina in the high area of Torre de Benagalbon before exiting the vehicle. A potential brake failure coupled with the slope of the road led to the lorry careening out of control, breaching the street’s safety barrier and tumbling down a several-metre incline before landing fully submerged in the residential pool.

Upon arrival, CPB officers confirmed no injuries and proceeded to

Renewable solutions

Catherine McGeer

THE Ministry of Agriculture’s €1.7 million investment in photovoltaic solar plants for the southern Guaro’s irrigation marks a significant step towards sustainable agriculture. Additionally, €500,000 will be allocated for renewable energy installations in the Cerro de la Encina Irrigation Community in Malaga Province.

Minister Luis Planas emphasised Andalucia’s prominence in irrigation

secure the butane tanks. Meanwhile, the supplying company is tasked with the lorry’s retrieval from the pool, with CPB personnel providing assistance in the operation.

modernisation, receiving €308 million, constituting 23.1 per cent of Spain’s total funding under the Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan (PRTR).

These investments aim to revolutionise water usage efficiency, particularly crucial amid the region’s prolonged droughts.

Projects under PRTR, like the €91 million modernisation of the Marismas del Guadalquivir Irrigation Community, will significantly enhance water conservation through pressurised irrigation systems.

This initiative is expected to begin in May and be-

nefit around 800 farmers across four towns, covering approximately 12,000 hectares of crops.

Moreover, in Malaga Province specifically in Velez-Malaga, solar plants will use regenerated wastewater for irrigating mango and avocado crops, benefiting over 1,100 farmers across 2,700 hectares.

Minister Planas stressed the importance of digitised irrigation systems, attracting younger generations to agriculture.

These investments underscore Spain’s commitment to sustainable farming practices amidst climate change challenges.

POWERING AGRICULTURE: Andalucia’s solar revolution.

Butane lorry takes a dive.

Image: Consorcio Provincial de Bomberos de la Diputación de Málaga

RENOWNED chef Rasmus Munk, known for his work at Copenhagen’s Alchemist restaurant, has teamed up with SpaceVIP and Space Perspective.

The trio plan to create an exclusive dining experience called ‘stratospheric dining’, set to launch in 2025.

This unique adventure will take place during a six-hour flight from Florida, USA.

The event offers a special table for six guests, with tickets starting at $495,000 each.

Participants will fly to an altitude of 100,000 feet aboard Space Perspective’s Spaceship Neptune, which uses a SpaceBalloon instead of a traditional rocket.

Stratospheric dining

UNIQUE ADVENTURE: Will take place during a six-hour flight.

be prepared beforehand.

Chef Munk will oversee a small kitchen on the

Image: Space Perspective / Facebook.

craft, using equipment for heating, finishing, and garnishing dishes throu-

ghout the flight.

Munk, also a co-owner of Alchemist, plans to create dishes inspired by six decades of space exploration, aiming to capture the impact of these endeavours on society and philosophy.

He wants to blend food with art and science to raise awareness about social and environmental issues, inspired by his childhood visits to Copenhagen Planetarium.

Sevilla accident

SIX people died and three were injured in Sevilla after a lorry swept into civilian and Guardia Civil vehicles, reported to be accidental.

Guests will wear custom clothing from Ogier and enjoy what’s promised to be ‘the meal of a lifetime’ while flying high above 99 per cent of Earth’s atmosphere, witnessing the sunrise against the planet’s curve.

Because of limited space on board, some food will

At approximately 4.40am on March 19, an accident in the AP-4, near Los Palacios in Sevilla, left four civilians and two GAR (Guardia Civil’s Rapid Action Group) officers dead, with three Guardia Civil officers injured.

The accident occurred when a lorry failed to stop on the motorway after being given signals by the Guardia Civil, and swerved, crashing into the nearest vehicles.

The driver was arrested and reported as uninjured and showing negative results for substance use. The road affected was being investigated by the police.

One of the survivors of the Los Palacios attack stated: “I don’t even know how I’m alive.”

The President of the Junta de Andalucia, Juanma Moreno, stated on X: “Our deepest condolences go out to the affected families and the Guardia Civil officers.”

Lord of the Rings

PRAGUE residents are pushing to rename streets after characters from ‘The Lord of the Rings’.

The news comes as the city plans to develop a new residential district on Rohan Island, located north of the historic centre along the Vltava River.

While the city initially proposed naming the streets after renowned philosophers like Kant and Derrida, some Czech residents are advocating for Tolkien’s fantasy characters instead.

The petition insists that the Rohan Embankment should bear names from the realm of Rohan, as depicted in Tolkien’s epic.

Although Rohan Island shares its name with a Middle Earth kingdom, it was originally named after a local poet, Josef Rohan, rather than the

fantasy novel.

Despite this, the petitioners, who have garnered over 10,000 signatures in support, are unwavering in their desire to honour the fictional heroes of Tolkien’s work.

They humorously question the role of philosophers like Immanuel Kant in battles against the likes of Saruman, the evil wizard from the novels.

Additionally, the petitioners criticise the lack

of female representation among the proposed street names and suggest honouring characters like the shieldmaiden Eowyn to address this concern.

Sharing the petition on his Facebook page, Prague councillor from the Pirate Party and the city’s former mayor Zdenek Hrib hailed the initiative as “a praiseworthy step.”

The councillor said: “I see it (the petition) as a very meritorious act.”

Image: Zdeněk Hřib/ Facebook

Prague’s Pirate Party councillor, Zdenek Hrib.

Fish doorbell

Bob Marquess

ARE you looking for a unique activity in Utrecht?

The Municipality of Utrecht in the Netherlands has just the thing: pressing a digital button to assist fish on their migration journey through the city’s canals.

During spring, fish make their way from the sea upstream to find spawning grounds.

In Utrecht, they often pass through urban canals with lock gates like the Weerdsluis.

A webcam near the lock lets you see if fish are there, indicating that the gate is closed.

DMYTRO HRUNSKYI, a strongman from Dnipro, Ukraine, recently achieved three new world records, adding to his impressive list of accomplishments.

Using his beard, neck, and teeth, he demonstrated incredible feats of strength.

Dmytro faced tough challenges along the way. His first attempt to pull a vehicle with his beard in 2019 didn’t succeed as his beard hairs were pulled out.

But he didn’t give up.

Over time, he let his beard

By clicking the digital button next to the webcam, you let the lock keeper know to open the gates if many fish have gathered.

This prevents a ‘fish traffic jam’ and helps them continue their journey.

This initiative, called the ‘fish doorbell’, has become a cherished local tradition.

It not only assists fish but also raises awareness about the biodiversity in Utrecht’s canals.

Visitors can learn about the fish species passing through and even observe them at night, as fish prefer to travel in darkness.

Last year, the initiative drew 8.2 million website visitors, showing its popularity and impact.

To be a part of the fishy journey, head to the website: visdeurbel.nl.

Beard and brawn

grow longer and tried different braiding techniques to make it stronger.

In his latest triumph, Dmytro broke the previous record set by Antanas Kontrimas of Lithuania by pulling a 2.58-tonne minibus using his beard.

He then showed his strength by pulling a 7.7-tonne lorry with his neck, proving his power.

Lastly, Dmytro beat his

own record for pulling cars with his teeth by towing seven taxi cabs, each with a driver inside.

This required not just strength but also careful precision to keep the cars moving straight.

Despite the heavy weights and challenges, Dmytro succeeded in each record attempt, showcasing his remarkable strength and skill as a strongman.

New ambassador to Spain

ON Thursday, March 14, the UK announced: ‘Mr Alex Ellis CMG has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain and non-resident Ambassador to the Principality of Andorra in succession to Mr Hugh Elliott who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. Mr Ellis will take up his appointment during summer 2024.’

The outgoing ambassador to Spain, Hugh Elliott, took to social media to share his thoughts: ‘After five wonderful years, this summer my term as Ambassador to Spain ends.

‘Although there are still many months (and work!) left, I am delighted to congratulate my great friend

and colleague @Alexwe llis, who will take over as of September.’

What does the change in ambassadors mean for the future of Gibraltar? The diplomatic transition comes after three years and 16 rounds of negotiations between London, Brussels, and Madrid.

As for the time being, talks have yet to yield an agreement on Gibraltar’s status following the UK’s departure from the European Union.

Elliot, who has been a pivotal figure in these negotiations, is departing after a five-year tenure. His efforts were central to the New Year’s Eve Agreement on December 31, 2020, aiming to foster shared prosperity between

Gibraltar and the Campo de Gibraltar in Cadiz.

The Spanish Foreign Minister, Jose Manuel Albares, described the agreement as a step towards dismantling the physical separation fence.

However, several crucial issues, such as border control and taxation, remain unresolved. In October 2022, Elliot mentioned the progress but acknowledged the existence of ‘thorny issues.’

Ellis, coming from his position as British High Commissioner in New Delhi and former National Security Advisor, has a rich background in international negotiations. His previous roles include Director of the Department of Exiting the European Union, ambassador in Brasilia, Lisbon, and Madrid.

This experience is expected to be invaluable as he navigates the complex issues at stake, including the joint management of Gibraltar’s airport and the post-transition positioning of Spanish officials.

The arrival of Ellis marks a crucial phase in the negotiations, with his expertise anticipated to help resolve the longstanding issues, including military and civil movement through Gibraltar.

His appointment signifies the UK’s ongoing commitment to finding a mutually beneficial agreement for all parties involved.

Alex Ellis will become ambassador to Spain in September 2024.

The town of caves

THE word troglodyte has one or two somewhat unfavourable meanings but it was originally used to simply describe someone who lived in a cave.

It is believed that the Spanish town in Cadiz Province, now known as Setenil de las Bodegas was first settled some 12,000 years ago in the Stone Age and the inhabitants found that the many caves there made very acceptable homes. Like so many other areas of southern Spain, the area was taken over by the Moors about 1,300 years ago and they built a fortified town with a castle (and its restored tower still exists) and used the caves for storage.

As the Christians regained the whole of the area, so a new generation of ‘Spaniards’ moved into the area and for some centuries the caves were used by the poor as homes but times change and now they have been taken

Enjoying a sunny afternoon in Setenil de las Bodegas.

over by businesses.

It is a tourist attraction and visitors (generally those who don’t suffer from claustrophobia) flock to the area and enjoy walking along the two main streets, Calle de Sol (Sun) and Calle de Sombra (Shade) stopping for a drink or bite to eat at one of the many bars and restaurants which are basically built into the caves.

On a warm day, with the Rio Guadalporcún running through the town, it

is easy to close your eyes and imaging life in Medieval times, provided you can phase out the sound of vehicles, other people chattering and music.

There is plenty more to see in Setenil de las Bodegas but in reality, it’s the concept of walking along a street that is covered by a huge millennia old slab of rock which encourages visitors and helps employ a good percentage of the 3,000 residents of the town.

Good Neighbours

John Smith

WE continue with details of those commended for the Good Neighbour Awards 2024 as announced by Age in Spain.

Steve Laidlow was nominated and won commendation for his Dream Centre. Arriving in 2019 for retirement in Hondon de los Frailes, Alicante, Steve with his wife Ann quickly forgot about retirement and with their own savings initially converted a warehouse and collected clothing and food to distribute to the poor.

After this came the Dream Centre, a purpose-built facility which houses a café and a thrift shop, as well as providing a venue for social gatherings and activities such as line dancing, poetry readings, a men’s group ‘Men with Purpose’ and a woman’s group, ‘Women of Destiny’. The Dream Centre is also a

venue for church services.

Steve and Ann are missionaries with many years’ experience internationally. They are members of the Acorn International Church. They see their work with people in Hondon de los Frailes as part of the mission of the Church, and

helping people as their ministry.

Both are experienced councillors and pastoral workers. Says Steve, encouraging people to come and join in their activities : “The church that’s alive is worth the drive to help people discover an extraordinary life.”

Credit: Andrei Dimofte Creative Commons

Credit: Age in Spain

THE DREAM CENTRE: A purpose-built facility.

IRELAND

Too fast

ROAD deaths in the European Union fell by an average of 1 per cent in 2023, compared with the previous year, but in Ireland they increased by 19 per cent with 184 people losing their lives, a 33 per cent increase on pre-pandemic 2019. Police attributed the rise to speeding and mobile phone use while driving.

Bog off

REFERRING Ireland to the EU’s Court of Justice, the European Commission claimed it had failed to put a stop to persistent peat-cutting in protection areas for raised and blanket bogs. The sites were continually degraded through drainage and turf-cutting activities, with insufficient action taken to restore them, the EU said.

NORWAY

Royal pacemaker

KING HARALD was fitted with a permanent pacemaker at the Rikshospitalet in Oslo on March 12 to replace the temporary device that was implanted at a hospital in Malaysia after the 87-year-old monarch was taken ill while on holiday. “The operation was successful, and the King is doing well,” the palace said afterwards.

No camping

CRITICS condemned Bergen city hall’s decision to ban overnight camping in parks, public spaces and on roadsides, claiming this was directed at keeping the homeless off the streets. “We’re a city known for promoting human rights, but now we’re distancing ourselves from that,” the Red Party’s Mailiss Solheim Akerblom claimed.

EURO PRESS

Less red tape

GERMANY’S government will cut down on bureaucracy after the Cabinet agreed to a new law that would digitise paperwork and bring savings of €625 million in space, rental and storage costs. “Reducing bureaucracy is one of the federal government’s major tasks, one of our major projects,” Chancellor Olaf Scholz declared.

ITALY FRANCE

Uniform charge

A COUPLE from Mussolini’s birthplace, Predappio, faced prosecution for dressing their small son as a member of the ONB fascist youth movement in October 2022. Public prosecutors said they and others who were celebrating the centenary of Mussolini’s March on Rome should be tried for breaking anti-fascism laws.

Bear facts

EIGHTEEN people are under investigation for online hate crimes after blaming Andrea Papi, who was mauled to death by a bear while out running in Trentino, for the subsequent court order to have it put down. Instead, the female bear thought to be defending her cubs, was eventually reprieved and rehomed to another area.

Frog warning

SCIENTISTS and conservationists said that consumption of frogs’ legs needed stricter regulation. Between 2010 and 2019, France imported 30,015 tons of frogs’ legs, a Nature Conservation study found, which has prompted warnings that continuing demand could ‘decimate’ frog populations in Indonesia and Turkey.

Going for gold

FRANCE’S Ministry of the Economy issued a five-year prospecting permit to Aurelius Resources, a subsidiary of British operator Aurelius Resources. The authorisation covers a 39.19-square kilometre in the Limousin area where the company will seek minerals that include gold, silver, antimony, tungsten, cobalt and lithium.

SWEDEN

Lichen fears

SAMI reindeer herders in northern Sweden said deforestation threatened their way of life and the animals they depend on. The herders explained that reindeer need lichen which only grows in old forests to survive, and they are on the brink of starvation as the ancient trees disappear, together with their own means of support.

Rat trap

AS Malmo prepares to host the Eurovision Song Contest in May, city authorities brought in ferrets and dogs to eliminate the rats they have been combatting over the past year. “We’re putting in extra-special efforts on locations where the Contest will be held,” the company which provides the ferrets and dogs told SVT television.

Picture that!

L’AMI INTIME (The intimate friend) by the Belgian surrealist artist Rene Magritte recently fetched £33.6 million (€39.37 million) at Christie’s in London. Collectors Gilbert and Lena Kaplan bought the painting in 1980 but loaned it to Belgium’s Royal Fine Arts Museums for a 1998 exhibition in Brussels.

Crane drama

A CRANE carrying out track maintenance near Belsele collapsed onto an empty train which derailed, damaging tracks, cables and a gantry as well as an oncoming train, none of whose passengers were affected. The crane operator jumped clear although the driver of the empty train and his assistant suffered minor injuries.

GERMANY PORTUGAL 10 euroweeklynews.com • European Press • 21 - 27 March 2024

May date

THE final of the Festival da Cançao 2024 to select the song and performer that will represent Portugal in the Eurovision Song Contest was won by Iolanda and the composition Grito. The programme had an average audience of 486,000, which amounted to 12 per cent of all viewers but was 74,000 down on 2023.

No problem

THE recently-published European Social Survey (ESS) found that Portugal, along with the UK, Spain and Norway, was one of the countries where respondents were most open to immigration. The ESS study also found that the perception of immigration as a threat was lower than the average for European countries.

Invader shot

A HUNTER in Wadden Sea coastal area shot a raccoon, an invasive species which endangers native wildlife and can be legally killed year-round in Denmark. “Raccoons have spread significantly in Germany and we can expect increasing numbers here,” Jan Boge, director of the Wadden Sea National Park told the DR broadcaster.

Called up

DENMARK’S plans to introduce military service for women will make it one of the few countries requiring females to spend time in the armed forces. Speaking on March 13, Defence minister Troels Lund Poulsen said that “robust conscription, including full gender equality” would contribute to solving defence challenges.

FINLAND

Early birds

TWO bears at Helsinki Zoo woke from their winter hibernation in early December after only six weeks, one of the shortest hibernation periods ever known there. After their December awakening, the two females returned for a seven-day sleep during the February cold snap before abandoning their dens once more.

Smoothed over

SKATERS are enjoying unusually smooth ice on the sea ice off Helsinki, formed after surface snow began to melt in February but froze over when the temperature dropped again, creating a glassy effect. The authorities warned skaters that the ice remained thick but to venture out only with adequate safety equipment.

NETHERLANDS

Help needed

ROUGHLY half of the over-55s, especially the single, find it difficult to manage cooking, housework and finances, figures from the Netherlands’ Central Statistics Agency revealed. Thirty-four per cent of people over 75 admitted that they “struggled” with at least one household chore or could not do it at all.

Time to go

AFTER the EU lifted sanctions against Arkady Volozh, the Russian billionaire can again access his European possessions including an Amsterdam mansion occupied by squatters. As a court ruled in 2023 that they could remain while Volzh’s assets were frozen, the oligarch’s lawyers now argue that this means they must go.

OLAF SCHOLZ: Less red tape is a priority, Germany’s Chancellor said.

A different culture

GABY CONSIDERE moved from Paris to Valencia with her husband and a four-year-old daughter and has defined it as a “growing experience”.

GABY was living in a small apartment in Paris with her family and dreamt about moving to a bigger place. She and her husband already had friends in Valencia, and with their advice, felt ready for the move.

Gaby is a physiotherapist, as well as a yoga and pilates teacher. She was not unaccustomed to moving: “I lived in London and Dublin for seven years, and then Paris for 10.”

She mentioned that she misses her family and friends back in Paris, and her work as a physiotherapist, but is happy to meet new people and continue practising sports every day.

9 OUT 10 CUSTOMERS RECOMMEND US

Credit: Gaby Considere, Facebook

She has friends from all over the world, even now, when living in Valencia and says she “gets by”, for speaking only basic Spanish.

Gaby Considere.

“I like it here. It’ s quite a different culture. I love the weather of course, and being close to the sea,” shared Gaby.

She spoke about the changes she had faced when moving: “Moving here has taught me a lot about myself. It has been extremely challenging; trying to get a job, making friends, and feeling lonely. But it has been a growing experience.”

She confessed that moving countries is not as fast and easy once you have children: “It was easier when I was younger and a student, but when there are children involved, things get more serious and moving can seem quite definite.”

I need a lie down now

VIEWS OF A GRUMPY OLD MAN

I HAVE been prescribed another pill which, at my age, is to be expected. I was reading the instructions and it said it had to be taken with 4 fl.oz of water. No problem except I don’t have a clue what 4 fl.oz looks like, which got me thinking about how confusing all that stuff is.

For instance, what’s the difference between a fluid ounce and an ordinary ounce? Did you know that an American gallon and a UK gallon have a difference of about 20 per cent? UK is bigger, but why? Everything is just so confusing. When buying a car I want to know how many mpg it does. I have an old Jeep and didn’t know, until sometime after I bought it, that the units were US measurement ie gallons or I can change it to litres. Have I lost you yet? Then you get litres to 100km. I don’t even know how to compare it. Stick to mpg.

Then you have shoe size. Im a nine. No sir, in USA you’re a 10. No, I’m a nine unless in Europe then I’m a 43!! Waist size 34. Oh no 44 here. Men’s trouser size in

US - hold on they’re the same in US - result! A 42 jacket in UK is 106 – 111 in Europe??????? But then women’s size 12 in UK is an eight in the US and a 40 in Europe!

Ready for more? Have you sold any gold to free up a bit of cash? Well if you ever decide to here’s a warning for you. Do not weigh it on your kitchen scales and then go to the jewellers and be a clever so and so and tell them how much you think it’s worth. Let them weigh it on their scales because a kitchen oz is 10 per cent less than a jewellers oz, or troy oz, as it’s officially called. Confusing isn’t it and totally unneccesary.

How about diamond weight in carats?

The French word carat came from the Italian carato but almost certainly derives from the Arabic qirat which came from the Greek kerátion meaning Carob seed. In Greek and Roman times it was used as a unit of weight. It was probably not used to measure gold at that time They had to find something else for that. So the most precious thing - a diamond - is valued by a seed off a tree because someone realised that all these seeds weighed the same!

I’m going to go have a lay down now.

Email mikesenker@gmail.com

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

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FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Pay boost

FAST fashion retailer Primark will give 27,000 shop staff pay rises averaging 9.1 per cent from April 1 as it joins other retailers in responding to the increase in the minimum wage. This will increase hourly rates in England, Scotland and Wales to £12 (€14.02) and £12.56 (€14.68) for employees working in London.

Huge numbers

A SURVEY by management consultants Alvarez & Marsal found that following the Bankia merger CaixaBank now holds €587 billion deposited by clients in current accounts, savings accounts, investment funds and pension plans. This corresponds to 29.8 cent of the domestic market, overtaking both Santander and BBVA.

Big boss

AS Britain’s Chancellor Jeremy Hunt prepares to provide another £6bn (€7.01bn) for the NHS, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed that the health service currently accounts for one in three of the UK’s public sector jobs. The NHS payroll has now risen above two million for the first time.

Madrid choice

GOLDMAN SACHS chose Madrid as headquarters for its Newdock centre as it expands its European logistics project.

Newdock, headed by Fatima Saez del Cano, focuses on developing and managing ultramodern logistics spaces in Spain, Portugal, France and Italy for Goldman Sachs Asset Management’s clients and entities.

Stored up

ANN SUMMERS, known for its ‘adult toys and accessories’, posted £105 million (€122.7 million) in sales, with profits of £62 million (€72.5 million) for the year ending July 2023. Despite an increased online presence, its 86 stores were still the most profitable part of its business.

THE UK is on course to emerge from recession as the economy returned to growth with a 0.2 per cent increase in January.

Britain’s gross domestic product (GDP) fell 0.3 per cent between October and December 2023, preceded by a 0.1 per cent dip during 2023’s third quarter, figures that put the country into recession.

Retail spending increased by 3.4 per cent in January and construction rose by 1.1 per cent, although production, which included manufacturing, shrank by 0.2 per cent, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed.

January’s growth will not have surprised Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey, who stated in February that the down-

€79.85 billion STAT OF WEEK

or 13.9 per cent of the cash generated by Spain’s 40 biggest companies including Inditex, Iberdrola and Telefonica, went to the government in 2022.

Growing again

turn would be one of the “shallowest and shortest in 70 years.”

The January figures came as a boost for Britain’s PM Rishi Sunak, who has pledged to grow the economy, and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt who

announced when introducing the Budget on March 6 that the UK “had turned the corner.”

Referring to the January GDP figures on March 13, Hunt admitted that recent years “had been tough.”

Suren Thiru, economics

Another ace for Nadal

RAFAEL NADAL won two Grand Slams in 2022, the same year that Nadal family’s holding company Aspemir made a €19.9 million profit.

This was 75 per cent up on 2021 and 255 per cent on 2020, thanks to the 22 companies in the Aspemir portfolio.

Accounts submitted to the Registro Mercantil, Spain’s equivalent to Companies House, showed that the sports facilities were the most profitable, with Centre Sportiu Manacor contributing €3.7 million and the Rafa

Nadal International School academy bringing in €1.17 million.

Aspemir’s real estate investments made respective profits of €6.7 million and €2.4 million for Naiad 2012 and the Mabel Villa de Paris luxury development in Madrid.

Via Mabel Capital, in which it has a 33.3 per cent stake, Aspemir has holdings in hotels, restaurants - including the successful Tatel chain - plus the Komodo production company behind the Mad Cool music festival and the Netflix series, I am Georgina.

director at the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales (ICAEW), nevertheless warned that the monthly figures could decline again in February when heavy rainfall deterred shoppers.

Quoted in the Telegraph, James Smith from the Resolution Foundation, pointed out that notwithstanding the 0.2 per cent rise, growth remained sluggish.

“Britain is far from ending its period of prolonged stagnation, with the economy yet to return to its pre-pandemic size on a per-person basis,” he said.

Hard to get Another record Rather better

THE Bank of Spain’s quarterly update increased its 2024 growth prediction from December’s 1.6 per cent to 1.9 per cent.

The regulator now expects a more moderate slowdown following a better-than-expected increase in the gross domestic product (GDP) in the last quarter of 2023, bringing its forecast nearer to the Spanish government’s 2 per cent estimate.

Projections for 2025 and 2026 remained unchanged at 1.9 per cent and 1.7 per cent, the Bank said, but despite the recent restraint in Spain’s growth rate, this would still be more than the European Central Bank’s 0.6 per cent prediction for the eurozone.

INDITEX shares climbed by 7.7 per cent after the Spanish fashion chain announced its full-year 2023 results on March 13. Last year’s net profits soared to €5.4 billion, 30.3 per cent more than in 2022, with sales rising 10 per cent to the company’s highest-ever turnover of €35.9 billion.

The Zara company increased its lead over Swedish rival H&M thanks to being able to deliver trends faster from its nearby suppliers and sell more clothes at higher prices, Inditex’s chief executive Oscar Garcia Maceiras said. He also revealed that the company had a strong start to 2024 with sales up 11 per cent between February and March, compared with the same period last year.

Meanwhile, Inditex founder and former chairman Amancio Ortega will receive dividends of €2.846 billion in 2024.

VIRGIN MONEY high-rankers would share in a £6 million (€7.01 million) handout if the Nationwide Building Society takeover goes ahead.

After years of accumulating stock at Virgin Money, the 13 executives, board members and senior staff could expect to receive a windfall from the proposed £3 billion (€3.5 billion) deal.

David Duffy, chief executive of Virgin Money co-founded in 1995 by Sir Richard Branson, stands to gain most as he would be in line to receive £3.5 million (€4.09 million) for his 1.6 million shares.

US hedge fund Elliott discarded plans to take over UK electricals firm Currys after two bids were turned down.

Elliott initially offered £700 million (€818.3 million,) followed by another of £756 million (€883.7 million) for Currys.

Following the double rejection, the American company then said it was not in a position to make an improved offer “on the basis of the public information available to it.” City analysts maintained that the Currys board was “unlikely” to consider any bid below an offer valuing the company at £900 million (€1.05 billion).

BRITAIN’S government intends to introduce legislation that would prevent foreign powers from owning UK newspapers and news magazines.

The far-reaching move would halt the proposed £600 million (€701.2 million) purchase of the Telegraph by RedBird IMI, a fund that is backed by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, vice-president of the United Arab Emirates, and a private US investment company.

Media minister Lord Stephen Parkinson announced that the government would be putting forward an amendment that would result in blocking the deal, in a move that goes further than an early campaign by Baroness Tina Stowell to prevent the sale.

SPAIN’S Cabinet Meeting on March 12 has given the Orange-MasMovil merger the goahead. The government authorised the operation from the point of view of foreign investment in a Spanish company, while bearing in mind the concessions that both companies have made to the fast-growing mobile operator, low-cost Digi.

Consent follows on from recent authorisation from the European Commission, which has subjected the €18.6 billion merger that was first announced two years ago to close scrutiny, owing to the competition and monopoly implications of the deal.

Photo credit: Flickr/Shinya

Photo credit: self-build.co.uk

RAFAEL

Neutral stance

RAUL BLANCO, chairman of Renfe, said that Spain’s state-owned railway company was “absolutely neutral” regarding the possible €619 million takeover of rolling stock manufacturer Talgo by Ganz-Mavag Europe.

Renfe had received “no details” of the operation, Blanco said, although the government is known to fear Russian capital could be involved in the deal.

Power play

BRITISH gigafactories and plants refining battery metals will receive cheaper power from April as the government tries to stem dependency on outside sources. China currently controls 70 per cent of the world’s cobalt, 70 per cent of its nickel. 60 per cent of battery-grade lithium and 90 per cent of some rare earths.

Delayed justice

LEGISLATION introduced on March 13 will quash the wrongful convictions of hundreds of UK sub-postmasters.

This would clear the names of those whose lives were ruined through the Horizon computer programme scandal, the Prime Minister announced on March 13.

Affected sub-postmasters will receive an interim payment with the option of an immediate, fixed and final offer of

£600,000 (€702,024) enabling them to finally start

Paradores doing well

PUBLICLY-OWNED Paradores de España ended 2023 with a €328 million turnover.

This was the highest in the hotel chain’s 96 years of existence and 6 per cent more than in 2022, Paradores’ chairwoman, Raquel Sanchez, said.

With net profits of approximately €25 million, 124 per cent up on 2022, the chain was also in the black for the third conse-

cutive year following the pandemic.

Occupancy averaged 71 per cent, compared with 65 per cent in 2019 and 67 per cent in 2022.

The outlook for 2024 was equally encouraging, Sanchez said, taking into account that occupancy for traditionally low-season January and February had averaged 58 per cent, six percentage points more than in 2022.

rebuilding their lives.

For those not choosing this option, claims will be assessed through the usual process, with no limit to compensation.

There will also be £75,000 (€87,764) redress payments for postmasters who were not convicted but suffered because of the scandal.

Those who have already settled will have their compensation adjusted, bringing them in line with the successful approach taken for members of the Group Litigation Order group of postmasters.

“I want to pay tribute to all the postmasters who have shown such courage and perseverance in their fierce campaign for justice,” Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak MP, said.

“Today’s legislation marks an important step forward in finally clearing their names.”

Profits rise

FRENCH sporting goods retailer Decathlon intended to change its image and transform its 175 stores in Spain - the company’s second most-important market after France - and was planning to open more, chief executive Barbara Martin Coppola revealed. In 2022, according to Decathlon’s last available figures, turnover in Spain rose to €2.1 billion with profits of more than €100 million.

Turn around

THE John Lewis Partnership made a pre-tax profit of £56 million (€65.6 million) in the 12 months ending January 27 2024, compared with a loss of £234 million (€274 million) during the previous year.

The retailer, which also owns Waitrose, nevertheless announced that for the third time in four years, staff would not be receiving an annual bonus.

Photo credit: Flickr/number10.gov.uk

DOWNING STREET: Erroneous Horizon convictions quashed.

Is it any wonder

LEAPY LEE

SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

TWICE, in my oft turbulent life existence I have experienced immigrant status. At present it has of course been here in Spain, happily ensconced for the last 43 years on the delightful and stunningly beautiful island of Mallorca. However before landing here I did reside as a somewhat temporary immigrant of eight years in the early developing days of Saudi Arabia.

Back then of course, apart from the palaces and homes of the mega rich, it had almost nothing to offer except money. Electricity and phone systems were being installed across the land. Football stadiums, sky scrapers, magnificent cities and water supplies were under construction and it was altogether an exciting and often somewhat harrowing time to exist while endeavouring to coin in some of the riches they were lavishly handing out.

Initially I went in under a visa issued by a somewhat questionable Saudi sponsor as one of his lorry drivers. My

main purpose was however to attempt the introduction of entertainment to the fun starved British workers and ultimately the local populace. You’ll have to order my books from Amazon to read the almost unbelievable results of all that. What was important and totally alien was of course the fact that I was residing among a 99 per cent Muslim populace. With Jeddah being in the close proximity of Mecca and the annual Hajj, to show respect for the Saudis (and stay out of jail!) I decided to comply with the local rules and regulations as best I could. There were no churches or places of worship for any alternative beliefs (and still aren’t!) which also meant, with the country now importing thousands of British workers and families, the Christian followers simply had nowhere to gather.

Subsequently a small group of around a dozen or so decided to use one of the small classrooms of the local school, (which catered exclusively for immigrants’ offspring), as a place to hold a Sunday morning prayer meeting. They lasted three weeks. The whole country was riddled with Saudi spies and one harrowing Sunday morning

the dozen or so, perfectly law abiding, Christian worshipers were subsequently raided by the religious police, arrested and thrown into jail. There followed complete uproar among the authorities and bosses of the foreign contracted companies, which finally resulted in at least three perfectly innocent parishioners being deported and the remainder restricted to their own ‘compounds’ on a Sunday.

Is it any wonder therefore, when this ol boy sees vast numbers of mosques being constructed in the UK, many funded by the Saudis, with the Muslim mayor of London allowed to happily pepper the centre of Britain’s capital city with lights celebrating the Islamic religious month of Ramadan, it doesn’t get me utterly miffed? Believe me, if the Muslim immigrant population tries to turn the UK into the same countries many of them ran from (Over 50 where actually being Christian evokes persecution or the death penalty) then parts of the UK will begin to resemble the Beirut I prophesised some 30 years ago. Keep the faith Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail.com

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

HEARING impairment refers to the partial or total loss of the ability to hear. But what impact can this have on our everyday lives?

Having the ability to listen gives you the chance to communicate and express your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. To adopt a listening attitude means to separate our own thoughts and focus on what the other person is expressing.

Is “hearing” the same as “listening”? “Hearing” can happen unintentionally, while “listening” involves a conscious and deliberate action. That is, we listen with the goal of finding something specific.

By listening, we can offer quality and comfort to our loved ones when they are sad. By listening, we show empathy and trust to our grandchildren when they share their troubles. If you allow yourself to listen, you’ll hear your family’s love at every moment of the day. By

improving your listening, you can enhance the quality of life for your friends and family. It is often said that a good friendship is one that listens to everything needed, staying by your side without judge ment or asking for anything in return. A new study bols ters this no

tion of friendship by linking such “solidarity in listening” with increased life expectancy. Specifically, research has found that feeling heard improves cognitive resilience,

Flying squirrels

EU laws mandate the protection of the Siberian flying squirrel, a unique species mainly found in Finland and Estonia, by preventing any unnecessary disturbance to its habitat.

In Finland, projects like the one in Pori need to follow regulations to avoid harming flying squirrel habitats.

Recently, when flying squirrel droppings were found at a proposed construction site in Pori, the project was put on hold.

The city then hired an environmental consultancy to survey the area thoroughly, identifying suitable breeding sites and trees where droppings were found.

The Yyterinniemi peninsula near Pori, known for its port and industrial development, is being carefully planned to balance economic growth with protecting

a brain capacity associated with mental diseases like Alzheimer’s disease. Feeling heard could help you live longer.

Here are four benefits of knowing how to listen:

1. Improved communication. One of the benefits of active listening is that you can understand what the other person is thinking, feeling, and trying to convey. Paying attention to their words and body language will give us a much deeper understanding, which will help us avoid misunderstandings and communication failures.

2. Increased learning volume. Another benefit of learning to listen is that it helps you learn and absorb

the environment.

The survey aims to locate and safeguard habitats preferred by the flying squirrel, preventing the destruction of vital ecosystems.

This isn’t the first time the Siberian flying squirrel has affected development in Finland.

The construction of the Helsinki-Espoo inter-city tram line was stopped four years ago for similar reasons.

Ongoing research, such as tracking flying squirrels with radio collars, helps understand their movements and habitat needs, guiding urban planning decisions.

knowledge from a variety of sources.

3. Closer connections with people. Listening connects us with others, making it a key skill for successful relationships. Listening helps develop other skills like empathy, leading to better understanding and collaboration among colleagues. It also shows respect, concern, and trust in others.

4. Improved mental health. Learning to listen also has positive effects on our mental and emotional health. Listening to others can help you feel guided, understood, and supported in difficult times. It helps to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

That’s why at Auditec we offer you a free hearing test. Come visit us. We take care of you.

Leapy

A unique species.

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• News Across The Regions •

Costa del Sol Linking up

MARBELLA City Council is continuing with its objective of linking the whole of the Paseo Marítimo by means of a pedestrian path with the start of work on a new section in the Los Monteros area, 250 metres in length.

The new link will run from the area of the Palm Beach beach bar to the Morera and will have, as in the other sections, lighting, benches and will be four metres wide.

The mayor, Ángeles Muñoz, visited the works which will be completed in three months with an investment of €350,000 and said, “We are continuing with our roadmap to connect the promenade so our citizens can enjoy this marvellous infrastructure.”

In addition, the whole area will be renovated and protected environmentally.

Costa Blanca South Shamrocks & Support

WHAT a wonderful turnout for this year’s St Patrick’s Day Parade in Cabo Roig on March 17!

The sun was shining, the music was playing, and everyone had a fantastic Sunday afternoon enjoying watching the dancers and floats go by.

The Samaritans volunteers, wearing their branded t-shirts and carrying collecting buckets, were there as the official charity of the event. The crowd was amazing, and their support was truly generous. In just two hours, the charity managed to collect a very impressive €1,582!

The charity would like to say a big thank you to all the volunteers who took part, to the St Patrick’s Day Committee for choosing the Samaritans, and to every person who donated. It is because of this continued support that the Samaritans can provide their freephone service on 900 525 100

Mallorca

€1,000 for spending

A CAMPAIGN to raffle off €1,000 to spend in shops in central Palma is underway.

The employers’ association of small and medium-sized businesses in Mallorca (Pimeco) and the Nou Centre commercial association to revitalise the centre of Palma are promoting the campaign ‘1,000 reasons to make you happy’.

Until April 30, all customers making purchases in one of the participating local shops will receive a coupon to take part in the prize draw. The winner will be announced on the social media accounts of Pimeco and the Associació Nou Centre.

They will have an hour to spend €1,000 in the shops in the area.

The campaign, which has the support of the Consell de Mallorca, aims to boost sales in shops around Les Avenguidas, Calle Aragón and the Parc de les Estacions.

Costa Blanca North Your power to change

JONNY ELRAIZ, the co-founder of Benidorm’s Project4All, reached the €3,509 fundraising target within five days, aiding his contribution to homeless people.

Jonny Elraiz is a rock musician and a friend to all who need support: he has been taking care of approximately 35-40 homeless people around Costa Blanca, delivering meals and hope to those in need.

“Every living person has a power. And I don’t think that people realise the power that they have to change the things around them,” said Jonny in a video filmed by the popular English YouTuber, Mr Wendall.

Jonny said he was struggling to meet the costs of renewing his van: essential to his delivery work. Together, Mr Wendall and Jonny started raising funds and reached their target within five days.

Jonny has expressed his gratitude to all who contributed.

Almeria Race for charity

MORE than 200 people took part in the Junt@s somos más Fuertes (Together we are stronger) charity race in Mojacar on March 16.

Organised by the Mojacar Council, the Red Cross and local athletics group Los Bandidos, it started at noon but prior to that, there were a number of events to get the participants properly warmed up.

Red Cross volunteers hosted a special space for youngsters which included board games, gymkhana, bingo and Twister.

It was all about raising money for the Red Cross and those taking part could treat it as a real race or an enjoyable stroll. At the completion of the race, everyone who took part was invited to share a giant paella.

Costa Calida Smashed it again!

THE annual Mother’s Day lunch at the beautiful Ruf Mari Restaurant in Los Urrutias took place on Mother’s Day, and 100 allocated tickets were sold within a week. They had PLAN B, Graham, and Ian providing great music, and after a delicious meal, most of the ladies were dancing.

Volunteers from the Shelters helped with the organisation and, they targeted themselves to make €1,000 for PAPS, LOS INFIERNOS AND MALCOLMS CATS... raising €1,500 on the day, €500 for each shelter. Veterinary bills are running high, food is more expensive, and the amount of abandoned, stray, and dumped puppies has almost doubled in a year. Please, they need more ongoing help, donations, walkers, admin, fundraisers and volunteers.

Thank you for everyone’s support, it will always make a difference.

PETS

Gone to pot Pet maintenance ruling

Kevin Fraser Park

DOG owners

beware, the initial reaction on discovering that your pet has ingested marihuana might be amusement, but it’s actually very serious as Purdey the labrador’s owners, Andrew and Helen found out.

Contrary to popular belief, dogs do not experience the same effects as humans. They do not get high from marihuana but instead the active ingredient, THC, triggers ataxia, which is a form of clumsiness and loss of movement control.

Andrew and Helen were walking Purdey through a park in Marbella on the Costa del Sol when she started sniffing around under a bench. They thought nothing of it to start with until they noticed the labrador seemed to have a little trouble walking.

They carried on and then decided to stop for a coffee. On getting up again from the table they realised that Purdey couldn’t stand and was completely uncoordinated. “My first thought was that she had suffered a stroke,” said Andrew.

Luckily they knew a vets nearby, where the dog was examined and immediately they realised she had ingested drugs of some sort. Their quick diagnosis meant Purdey received immediate treatment and a few hours later she was ready to go home. The vet confirmed from blood tests that she had ingested marihuana, most likely from eating the discarded stub of a spliff.

IN January 2022, two years following the enactment of the Law on the Legal Regime of Animals, which recognises pets as sentient beings rather than mere objects, the Court of First Instance number 15 in Vigo, Galicia decreed a unique monthly pension for a pet caught in the middle of a divorce. This decision placed the animal in the custody of the woman and required her exhusband to contribute €40 monthly towards the pet’s expenses, with any extraordinary and veterinary costs split between the two.

Under the new legal framework, pets are

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awarded considerations similar to other family members, including children.

This approach mandates the continued assurance of their wellbeing and protection, even amidst family breakdowns.

Courts across Spain have since been adjudicating on matters of custody and visitation rights for pets, but the Vigo ruling pushes the envelope further by establishing a financial

support system for the pet, similar to child support arrangements.

The animal ‘will remain in the care’ of the woman ‘and the extraordinary and veterinary expenses will be paid in half.’

This ruling, issued over a year ago but only recently highlighted due to its appeal, integrates pets fully into the family unit’s post-divorce financial arrangements, reflecting their status as beings with rights and needs.

Photo of Purdey on holiday in Istan

Credit:

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

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