Mallorca 21– 27 March 2024 Issue 2020

€40,000 given

CARE

Angela McGrath was delighted to present cheques for € 20,000 each to AECC Cancer Care in the Balearic Islands and to Aspanob (Association for Of Parents of Children With Cancer in the Balearic islands).

In the centre of the picture, Angela McGrath is presenting a cheque to Jaime Coll, president of Aspanob children’s can-

cer.

is Rachel Watkinsa, vice British Consul, and next to her is Jaime Bellido, vice president of AECC.

None of the volunteers in the organisation receive any payment for their work. They were warmly thanked for their tireless dedication.

Thanks also went to everyone who donates their unwanted items to the three charity shops and to the committed

customers who then buy them, without whom these remarkable donations would not have been possible.

Bronwyn Griffiths, the President of the Cancer Support Group, CSG expressed thanks for a €3,000 cheque from Cala Nova Cancer Care. These funds are earmarked for taking patients to and from hospital, offering counselling and support and also providing wigs.

Audience with the Pope

THE president of the Consell de Mallorca, Llorenç Galmés, had an audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican on March 20.

The Council of Mallorca is starting celebrations for the year of Saint Catalina Tomàs with a series of events in Rome and the Vatican to commemorate the 450th anniversary of the death of the only Mallorcan saint.

The first minister of the Council, Llorenç Galmés, accompanied by the bishop of Mallorca, Sebastià Taltavull, and the mayor

of Palma, Jaime Martínez, told Pope Francis that the event will be “very memorable, because she is the only Mallorcan saint.”

Dime, the association of palliative care volunteers in the Balearic Islands, also received € 3,000.

Almost everyone has family or friends who have had cancer, and together we can help alleviate suffering.

To donate furniture, bedding, or other items, or to volunteer, contact Calanova Cancer Care Charity Shop on Joan Miró, San Agustín on 971 708 664.

Pupils against graffiti

YOUNG people lobbying for damaging graffiti removal have been awarded a prize by the Association for the Revitalisation of Historic Centres (ARCA).

Pupils from Sant Francesc school in Palma, led by teacher Jordi Carulla, have won a prestigious award for their hard work cataloguing graffiti. This beautiful initiative aims to tackle defacement in a district in the old town of Palma known as Canamunt.

Pupils at Sant Francesc school were indignant to discover ugly graffiti on historic buildings in the area. After considering various options, including cleaning the walls and demonstrating, their teacher organised them into groups of six 12- and 13-year-old children, who then spent three hours a week for two months mapping the graffiti. They subsequently presented the results to the city mayor, demanding the buildings be cleaned of the inscriptions.

These bright young people are proof that the future is in good hands.

• Issue No. 2020 • 21 - 27 Mar 2024 FREE FREE FREI GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS GRATUITO VRIJ LIVRE ILMAINEN G F E GRATIS GRATUIT S G Mallorca on

CALA NOVA CANCER

charity founder

To her right

Cheque presentation ceremony for cancer care.

Credit: Cala Nova Cancer Care

Graffiti on historic building in Palma.

Credit: Z. Thomas, Creative commons

21 - 27 March

Walk Against Cancer 2024

Linda Bottle

ANITA had breast cancer in 2014. As part of the healing process, she decided to organise a walk over the Tramuntana mountain range with friends.

Every year since the first walk in 2016 Anita and her crew have walked the GR221 to raise money for Cancer Support Mallorca, always during the Easter period.

They have raised over €15,000 for cancer charities in Mallorca to date. With just two weeks to go before the Walk Against Cancer 2024 starts, the organisation is encouraging anyone who hasn’t signed up yet to do so this week. The registration form is on their website.

Some participant packs are still available and can be collected from The Olive Tree on Saturday March 23 between 10 and 12.

Other collection points can be arranged for those who cannot make it.

Everyone can set their

GR221: Walking over the

own goal, and people who prefer running, cycling and swimming can do so instead of walking.

It is important to check the website for the dates of various preliminary activities.

On April 1, Anita and her team will be walking the final leg of the GR221 from the Son Amer Refuge (near Lluc) to Pollença, and everyone is welcome to join them.

The end of the walk will

Tramuntana mountains.

be celebrated at Sa Vinya, Es Capdellà on April 30.

Hands-on history for children

Annette Christmas

THE Institute of Education and Libraries of Calvià (IMEB) held a hands-on teaching activity at the Puig de Sa Morisca archaeological park in Santa Ponsa.

Primary schoolchildren aged eight to 10 from the Ses Rotes Velles and Son Ferrer schools took part.

These practical sessions were led by researchers from Ciudad Ciencia science park in Calvia, which has been showing pupils how to explore the natural environment of Puig de Sa Morisca and other locations for more than 10 years.

The joint initiative between the Milá y Fontanals Institution and the Spanish School of History and Archaeology in Rome was presented by the researcher Berta Morell and a specialist in archaeo-

logical replicas, Gerard Remolins.

Children said the best part about the workshop was handling the replicas Gerard Remolins presented of tools used by our ancestors.

These utensils were made with raw materials common at the time, such as stone, bone, antlers or wood.

Pupils thus experienced the feel and weight of the tools and had the chance to try them out.

The children also participated in a virtual excavation, documenting each find, and had a go at unearthing pieces in an archaeological dig.

The IMEB hosts this activity within the framework of the Ciudad Ciencia science park dissemination project in collaboration with more than 50 Spanish city councils.

Reforestation in Genoa and San Agustín

BY the end of April, Palma City Council will have planted 2,803 trees in various locations in the Genoa and San Augustín districts.

During the summer campaign a further 100 palm trees will be planted, according to the deputy mayor for Infrastructure, Belén Soto.

Together with the general director of the area, Pedro Led, she visited the

reforestation work being carried out in the areas of Genoa and San Agustín.

The planting work began last September in the winter campaign and is being carried out by the Department of Parks and Gardens.

Six hundred trees have already been incorporated into borders and green areas of Palma. A further 1,200 trees have been ad-

ded to the Bellver forest surrounding the castle and the remaining approximately 1,000 will be planted during March and April.

One hundred and seven olive trees have been sown in the surroundings of Genoa and Sant Agustí. Belén Soto said the aim is “to achieve a more sustainable borough that is more welcoming to citizens.”

Road closures

EASTER processions are likely to cause road closures in town centres at dusk during Easter week. The different guilds will be wearing their distinctive hooded robes and marching to bands, except on Friday, when the march is silent.

Crucifixion act

ON Good Friday, the crucifixion will be acted out live in many towns at 7.30pm, such as Inca and Pollença, when an actor playing Christ will be lowered from the cross. In Palma the procession starts at 7pm.

First event

PAKITA RUIZ has been selected to compete in the first women’s motorcycling world championship. Five of the 22 participants are Spanish nationals. With 12 races in total, six of the stages will coincide with those of the WorldSBK superbike world championship.

Ensaimada fair

SANTANYÍ is hosting the Fair and Exhibition of the Ensaimada all day on Saturday, March 23, with activities for the whole family. Bakeries from all over Mallorca are participating and there will be traditional dancing in the afternoon.

Rare kite released

ON March 20, the Regional Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Natural Environment released a kite (Milvus milvus) into the Natural Park es Trenc - Salobrar, in Campos. The bird had spent eight months recovering at the Consortium for the Recovery of Fauna of the Balearic Islands (COFIB).

THE CCA Contemporary Art Gallery is opening its doors again, with three new exhibitions in Andratx and one in Palma.

Contemporary art at Andratx is o to a great start to the season, with events and exhibitions in connection with the Art Palma Brunch and the gallery’s own Open Studios programme, plus another exhibition at La Misericordia in Palma.

The CCA opening and Open Studios event is on Saturday March 23 between 11am and 4pm. As part of the CCA Artist-in-Residence programme, four talented artists are invited to live for a month at the CCA studios. These are currently Andrea Maria Breiling (US), Stefan Rinck (Germany), Tariq Oliver (Nigeria) and Stephan Rinck (Germany).

Exhibits include The bliss of Ignorance by Stefan Rinck and Philip Grötzinger, and The Softness group show from the

Contemporary art gallery Grants available

CCA ANDRATX: Is reopening with three new exhibitions.

CCA collection.

The Artist-in-Residence programme has been running for 21 years, welcoming more than 800 artists from 20 di-

THE Ministry of Business, Employment and Energy is now accepting applications for grants from small businesses.

A total of €2.7 million have been earmarked for brickand-mortar establishments in the Balearic Islands, to subsidise investments in technological equipment and digitalisation. This represents a 7.4 per cent increase on grants awarded last year.

The investments must be destined towards reducing the carbon footprint, improving energy e ciency and sustainability, or removing architectural barriers.

The subsidies can be used to buy furniture, machinery, alarm systems and security, POS terminals and intelligent automatic payment boxes, among other things.

Business premises can also be improved and modernised. Those eligible are self-employed people or owners of micro-, small and medium-sized businesses in the retail trade, as well as certain service companies.

The grants cover investments made between September 16, 2023 and September 15, 2024 and must be applied for before the end of this period.

erent countries.

There will also be an Easter lunch on March 31, with details to follow on the CCA Andratx website.

1,000 reasons

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 located in and around Les Avenguidas, Calle Aragón and the Parc de les Estacions.

Rare treat for horse lovers

MALLORCAN horse show returns to upcoming Sineu fair.

Until 15 years ago, there used to be a horse show to rank the most beautiful native Mallorcan horses. Now it is returning, giving visitors to the May fair in Sineu the chance to see these impressive black beauties.

The 19th Morphological Contest of the Mallorcan Horse to be held at Sineu on May 5 will be a rare opportunity to see these magnificent horses.

Sineu town councillor Joan Simonet stressed that “the Mallorcan horse is an endangered native breed.

“There are currently 156 registered females and 184 males, bred and managed on 85 farms.”

The Mallorcan horse is a rare breed, and like the Menorcan horse is pure black. Its history probably dates back to about 800 BC, when Celtic bloodlines were infused with those of larger, faster North African stock.

JET2 has issued a warning that travellers to Palma de Mallorca may experience slight delays due to terminal changes and maintenance work. Holiday-goers could “be waiting slightly longer than normal” in both departures and arrivals.

Jet2 apologises for any longer wait times, which are beyond their control: “We are working with the airport to ensure that any disruption to your airport experience will be kept to a minimum.”

Due to this ongoing work, passengers may have to wait slightly longer than normal to clear immigration in both departures and arrivals. Customer Helpers from the airline will be on hand to help.

All Jet2.com flights will be using check-in desks 31 to 33 and boarding for all flights will be from Module C. Information will be displayed on the airport information screens.

Homeless help Mallorca Interviewing Cumie

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 individualised model of care focused on the

Working on providing habilitation.

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.”

CUMIE misses the hot Buffalo wings of New York but loves Mallorcan life for many reasons, for example the lower cost of living, village life and having friends from all over the world.

She says a car is not absolutely necessary in daily life because everything is within walking distance in towns, unlike in the US. Another pleasant surprise was finding that the Internet was much faster than in New York.

She enjoys “the funny mix of traditional and modern.” For example, the farming town of Sa Pobla was quick to adopt a new system of separating rubbish and organic residues, with nightly pickups.

Cumie also appreciates the Spanish language. She found that two things helped when learning it: the pure vowel sounds and the clear spelling system. Also, certain words are fascinating because they

have no exact equivalent in English, such as alucinar, entregar, and approvechar.

Cumie immensely enjoys the island’s spectacular and charming beauty. She finds great pleasure in exploring the island as a family and always finding magical new places,

such as beaches and coves, where you can spend hours and hardly see any other people.

The view from the window when flying back to Mallorca from a trip abroad or travelling in the countryside from Sa Pobla to San Joan always brings a smile to her face.

Walking holidays

MORE people than ever are enjoying mountain stays in Mallorca as the mountain refuges of the regional council 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 times 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 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.

CUMIE: Enjoys the island’s spectacular beauty.

Credit:

“I’ll buy myself a Vespa”

AT the age of 103, Giuseppina Molari was stopped by the carabinieri while driving her car with no licence or insurance. The incident occurred at around 1am on Monday March 11 in Bondeno, in the province of Ferrara in Italy.

Giuseppina Molari, known to everyone as ‘Giose’, said, “The carabinieri were good. I’ve always cared about my autonomy and now I’ll use my bicycle to get around or I’ll buy myself a Vespa.”

The sprightly old lady was returning home after spending a quiet evening with friends when she ended up getting disoriented and could no longer find her way back to her home. It was a citizen who reported to police her unmis-

Photo: Shutterstock / Emilia Kohn Montero

takable white Fiat Panda proceeding in a dangerous manner, continuing to drive around the same streets.

The Carabinieri stopped her and got a surprise after checking the elderly woman’s driving licence and learning her year of birth - 1920. Her car was picked up by a tow truck, which loaded it and transported it to the place she had requested. The lady was finally driven home by the carabinieri, thus putting an end to her night out.

The news of what happened caused hilarity in her home town, where the woman, who will soon blow out her 104th birthday candle, is well-known and has many friends.

Woman had no licence or insurance.

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,

New ambassador to Spain

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 pi-

votal 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 fen ce.

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

Ellis, coming from his po sition as British High Com missioner in New Delhi and former National Security Advisor, has a rich back ground in international ne gotiations.

His previous roles include Director of the Department of Exiting the European Union, ambassador in Brasilia, Lisbon, and Madrid.

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 nego-

tiations, 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.

This experience is expected to be invaluable as he navigates the complex

Alex Ellis will become ambassador to Spain in September 2024.

Lower prices

9 OUT 10 CUSTOMERS RECOMMEND US

Person’s Night-time Assistance.

And their car insurance includes helpful services such as Legal Assistance that can provide help when applying for or renewing your driving licence in Spain.

EXPAT2EXPAT REWARD PROGRAMME

In a recent survey of our customers after using Línea Directa’s Roadside Assistance and breakdown services, over 90 per cent said they would happily recommend our insurance services to a friend or colleague. Línea Directa would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to answer the questions in our survey as it has given us valuable feedback on our services and enabled us to integrate positive changes and continue to provide expert solutions for overseas residents in Spain.

ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING IS IN ENGLISH

Car, bike and home insurance, with absolutely everything in English. The emergency and claims hotline is fast and efficient, with quick no obligation quo tes over the pho ne. The customer service team will help you decide on the best policy and there are easy payment options so you can spread the cost of your premiums.

DID YOU KNOW?

All Línea Directa insurance policies offer additional features specifically designed for expatriates living in Spain. Their home insurance includes Pet Assistance, IT Assistance, and Home Maintenance. All motorbike policies come with Replacement Motorbike, Technical Equipment cover and even Young

When an existing Línea Directa customer recommends a new customer, they both receive €30. Línea Directa’s Expat2Expat programme is free and open to all existing customers. You can recommend up to 10 people and earn up to €300 in cash per year. Simply ask your friend to call 917 002 006 and quote your full name. Then once their application for car, bike or home insurance has been approved, Línea Directa will pay the reward straight into the bank account following payment of next or first premium. For more information, see terms and conditions at lineadirecta.com.

LOWER THE PRICE OF YOUR INSURANCE

Change to Línea Directa and they will lower the price of your insurance. Línea Directa has been providing comprehensive car, motorbike and home insurance to British expatriates and residents in Spain for over 25 years. With over three million customers nationwide, Línea Directa makes sure you get the best possible price for the kind of insurance you really need.

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.

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

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

OVER many years Neater Heaters have become the first choice of many expats living in Spain.

Behind our stylish Scandinavian designs are a modern state-of-the-art convector heater that can match any on the market for economy and efficiency and beats all the serious competition hands down on price.

The real secret of these heaters is the computer-age technology in the form of extruded aluminium in the construction of the heating element. This material and the design creates a huge surface area for heat transfer, which means more air can be heated for less cost.

Neater Heaters use convection principles and are designed so that the electricity you put into the heater is converted to heat as cheaply as possible. When you turn on the heater the element warms up rapidly and heats the air around it, this

air rises and draws more cold air into the heater.

Because the element is extremely efficient and is designed to have a huge surface area, a large quantity of air is heated very quic kly. If your room has the co rrect sized heater, it will take about 20 minutes to warm up from cold, after which the heater eases off and works at about two thirds capacity, (depending on various external influences).

Our heaters are not only efficient, effective, and economical, but as you would expect from a Scandinavian product, they are extremely stylish and prac-

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

tical. There is a model that will suit anyone, from the BEHA, (Bluetooth option or Wi-Fi option) and the NEO Wi-Fi, so that you can control your heaters easily via a Wi-Fi APP but still being able to

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.

control them manually if preferred, or the trendy original style Neo with digital controls and a choice of colours and if you are limited for wall space then available for purchase are factory designed feet to enable the heater to be freestanding.

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

A unique species.

• 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.

Axarquia Charity Craft Fayre

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 is a globally recognised charitable organisation affiliated with the Catholic Church.

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.

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.

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.

Sponsored by

Unlock exclusive savings

IN the ever-changing landscape of expat life in Spain, securing comprehensive and affordable health insurance is a priority for many. NowCompare.es, a seasoned player in the international insurance comparison arena, is making waves with its exclusive campaign to offer expats in Spain an unparalleled opportunity. Save up to 40 per cent on top-tier health insurance while ensuring compliance with Spanish residency requirements.

Discover the NowCompare Advantage

Established in 2009, NowCompare has been a trusted ally for expats seeking financial relief without compromising on essential services. With almost 15 years of experience, the platform has evolved into the largest expat advisory service, supporting over 10 million expats globally.

NowCompare’s international insurance comparison service empowers expats in Spain to make informed choices. The company’s commitment to transparency has earned it a reputation for unlocking savings of up to 40 per cent, a game-changer in an industry where every euro counts.

Exclusive Savings Await You

NowCompare invites expats to capitalise on exclusive savings that are typically hard to come by in the realm of health insurance. By comparing the best providers in the market, individuals can now access prices that were once considered unattainable. It’s an opportunity to secure a residency-compliant health insurance plan at a fraction of the cost.

Why NowCompare?

Before NowCompare entered the Spanish market, expats were grappling with high health insurance premiums. The platform’s arrival has disrupted the status quo, empowering expats with the ability to compare, save, and secure the best health insurance coverage. The company’s licensing in Europe underscores its commitment to facilitating the expat experience in Spain.

Seize the Moment: Save Before It’s Too Late

The clock is ticking, and NowCompare encourages expats to take advantage and

save up to 40 per cent on health insurance by acting now. The process is easy, quick, and, most importantly, cost-effective. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to unlock exclusive savings that could reshape the way you approach health coverage while living overseas.

The Path to Peace of Mind Navigating life as an expat comes with its own set of challenges, but health insurance shouldn’t be one of them. NowCompare is not just a comparison service; it’s a partner in ensuring your peace

www.nowcompare.es

of mind. With offices around the world, the company is uniquely positioned to understand the diverse needs of expats, offering tailored solutions that prioritise both health and financial well-being.

NowCompare.es invites expats in Spain to embark on a journey towards cost-effective and comprehensive health insurance. Seize the opportunity to save, compare, and secure the best health insurance before it’s too late. NowCompare: Your gateway to a healthier and more affordable expat experience in Spain.

Get a quote today, visit www.now compare.es or scan the QR Code.

Gone to pot

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.

Meet Milo who loves keeping his cat-sitter company Do you need a cat-sitter to keep your feline company in your absence?

DO you have a cat like Milo? He only has to hear the kettle boil or the keys in the door and he is suddenly there at your feet, ready for a catch up on the day. He really misses his owner when she goes away on holiday. That’s why she finds house-sitters to keep him company and look after him when she goes away.

When you know the sitters are checked and come from House SitMatch you know we have your back. What is more, they won’t charge you a cent! Our house and pet-sitting works as an exchange of services. You offer free accommodation and the pet-sitters house-sit for free! You review each other at the end.

If you’re travelling in 2024 join our network now to find sitters, sooner rather than later. Get organised today! All pets benefit from staying

at home, so their routines are undisturbed. Choose Hou sesitmatch. com for affordable travel, home and pet care. Next steps:

1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com

2. Choose a Standard account (£69 per year) to ensure you can help online when needed

3. Create a profile with photos of your pet and the house

4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose.

How does it work?

HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety, then build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your advert, respond, and you choose the sitter of your choice.

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.9 / 5 Excellent

I have used HouseSitMatch for the last three years and would highly recommend it. Very easy to communicate with and very helpful by phone if needed.

Janet Bryant, Pet owner. How do you join?

Please register online via our website www.Housesitmatch. com.

Need a pet or house-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting is a win-win for both parties, free house and pet-sitting, and the house-sitters get free accommodation!

Reader exclusive offer - 25% Off Any New Membership Register as either house-sitter or homeowner. Get a 25% discount - Use coupon code PERFECT20.

Pet maintenance ruling

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 ex-husband to contribute €40 monthly towards the pet’s expenses, with

any extraordinary and veterinary costs split between the two.

Under the new framework, pets are awarded considerations similar to other family members, including children.

This approach mandates the continued assurance of their well-being 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 integrates pets fully into a family unit’s post-divorce financial arrangements, reflecting their status as beings with rights and needs.

CLASSIFIEDS

INSURANCE

PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

FOR SALE/WANTED

WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www. abbeygateinsure.com

MISCELLANEOUS

GOLD & SILVER Bought & Sold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

MOTORING

WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive

quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)

OTHERS

EDS?  We have the solution , Kamagra pills & jells, Ciali s,  Sidenafil, over 7 products for men & ladies, mixed trial packs.Available by mail-order. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394

INSURANCE

MOTORING

Bees stop play

THE score stood at 1-1 on court one at Indian Wells, California, when the umpire yelled at Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev to leave the court.

The ATP tournament was in the grip of a ‘bee invasion’.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz gamely tried to dodge the critters while swatting them away and was

ding. According to APT Tour.com, he then transferred them to a cage, which was transported away from the stadium to be deposited in one of the beekeeper’s own hives.

There were still bees on the court, so the beekeeper came back on court with a spray bottle, to the enthusiastic cheers of the crowd. Some people began to shake his hand and others took selfies

Mr Davies vacuumed more bees off the spider camera and shooed them off the scoreboard with his spray bottle. The delay lasted an hour and 48 minutes, considerably longer than the match it-

Carlos Alcaraz went on to win the match 6-3, 6-1 to enter the semifinal against Jannik

Formula 1 boys toy

John Smith

THERE is little doubt that Formula 1 which has now returned for the 2024 season is loved by ‘petrol heads’, many of whom can afford to pay big for their enjoyment.

Now if they need something special for their ‘mancave’, the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team has teamed up with Memento Exclusives to offer stateof-the-art AMR24 Show Car Simulators.

The simulators are made using the team’s

CAD drawings used to design and manufacture the actual car.

Made to order and painted in iconic British racing green, this is a rare opportunity for fans and gamers and is the closest thing to driving the real car claim the manufacturers as they look to persuade potential customers to part with €143,266.95 provided that they are prepared to wait a minimum of 12 weeks for construction.

For the man (or wo-

man) who has everything however, there will be a one off special edition signed by two-time World Champion, Fernando Alonso and Canadian F1 driver, Lance Stroll, which will be auctioned online and the price could surprise everyone.

As the simulator is made in and shipped from the UK, any potential buyer in the EU should be prepared for an interesting discussion with customs once it arrives at the border.

Something special for the mancave.

Credit: Memento Exclusives

Victor Carlos Alcaraz.

Credit BNP Paribas X