Costa Blanca South 28 March – 3 April 2024 Issue 2021

George Cunningham

MARIA and Pink Ladies, located at Playa Flamenca Beach CC, sadly have to close their office because of ongoing flooding issues.

For months, around 50 litres of water have been coming in daily from a leak in a unit two floors above.

Despite efforts to clean up by Carl, a member’s husband, the situation has become too difficult.

The damage is pretty severe, with cupboards falling off walls, the ceiling collapsing, and electrical problems happening often.

Because of safety concerns, the Pink Ladies have come to the difficult decision to stop working from this location.

However, they are still very much committed to helping the community and will keep arranging screening appointments for the public.

You can book appointments by calling them on (+34) 633 487 595 , emailing info@pink-ladies.org, or visiting their website www.pink-ladies.org.

You can also find them at Zenia Boulevard on Mondays from midday until 2.00pm.

The ladies are now looking for a new place to

Relocation request

work and are asking for help from the community to find an affordable place to rent.

If you have any leads, please call (+34) 633 487 595

The Pink Ladies want to thank PSI Consultants, who have very kindly let them use their office for free for the past 10 years. Their generosity helped the Pink Ladies do important work in the community.

•

FREI GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS

GRATUITO VRIJ LIVRE ILMAINEN G F E GRATIS GRATUIT S G

Costa Blanca South

The Pink Ladies.

Image: Pink-Ladies Org

Counting on you

UNDER the slogan ‘We are counting on you, the Club is counting on you’, the Royal Club Nautico (RCN) Torrevieja has introduced a new initiative.

The goal is to enhance communication between the President, the Board of Directors, and the members through the Member’s Mailbox, reachable via email at socio@rcnt. com. The Member’s Mailbox, or suggestion box, is designed to gather feedback, suggestions, and information from RCN Torrevieja members.

This feedback can cover various aspects such as facility usage, operating hours, services provided by the Club, departments, and activities.

THE Zenia Artichoke Fest, held at La Zenia Boulevard on March 23, was a resounding success, celebrating the cherished artichoke, often called the ‘Jewel of the Garden’.

Attendees were treated to 1,000 perfectly cooked artichokes, highlighting the culinary excellence of this vegetable.

The festival also offered various activities for youn-

It’s important to note that this process is not intended for situations governed by specific legislation or regulations.

To facilitate communication with the Board of Directors, three channels are available.

A physical ballot box can be placed in the RCN Torrevieja lobby, email communication can be made at socio@rcnt.com, or, pre-scheduled appointments with the President can be arranged at reception.

Members can fill out suggestion forms and deposit them in the ballot box. Each form should include the member’s name and number. The suggestions will then be reviewed and assessed by the Directors.

Harvesting success

ger visitors, including show cooking, a painting workshop, and an artichoke-themed game.

The Vega Baja region is renowned for its high-quality artichokes, making it one of Spain’s leading producers.

Covering over 2,000 hectares, the area yields approximately 25,000 tons of artichokes each season,

from November to May.

Vega Baja holds a significant position in Spain’s export market, with around 50 per cent of national artichoke exports originating from this region.

Key export destinations include France and Italy, with lesser quantities reaching Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK.

Exploring Alicante

Anna Ellis ALICANTE has reintroduced the Turibus service just in time for Holy Week.

The recently revamped Turibus now offers guided tours in six languages: Spanish, Valencian, English, French, German, and Italian.

The one-hour tour takes passengers to 11 iconic landmarks and monuments across the city. Passengers can hop on and off at each stop

throughout the day to visit monuments or go shopping.

Carlos de Juan, councillor for Urban Mobility and Transport, praises the Turibus as a great way to explore Alicante’s famous sites and attractions.

The councillor confirmed: “The Turibus depart from Plaza Puerta del Mar hourly between 10.00am and 1.00pm, and then from 4.00pm to 6.00pm, every day of the

week.”

Stops are made approximately every five minutes at key tourist attractions, including Santa Bárbara Castle, Provincial Archaeological Museum (MARQ), Rambla, Plaza de España, Central Market, Plaza de los Luceros, Federico Soto, Maisonnave, Bus Station, and Port.

It also connects with main TRAM stops and urban and interurban transport lines.

TURIBUS SERVICE: Now offers guided tours in six languages.

Image: Alicante City & Beach

NIBS EXTRA

Clocks go forward

DAYLIGHT Savings Time begins on Sunday March 31 at 2.00am. At this time, clocks will ‘spring forward’ as we welcome in the longer days and sunnier seasons of spring and summer.

Police patrol

ELCHE has invested €1.1 million to acquire 20 new patrol cars, boosting the Local Police fleet to a total of 82 cars and 25 motorcycles. The investment allowed for the acquisition of 20 hybrid SUV vehicles through a fouryear lease agreement.

Almoradi Fair

FROM April 12 to 14, Almoradi’s Plaza de la Constitución will enjoy its 24th fair. This year’s fair promises to be exceptional, showcasing stalls from local businesses. With a Sevilla-themed atmosphere, visitors can enjoy an array of exciting activities and live music.

Pinoso’s visitors

STUDENTS from the University of Alicante’s master’s programme in biodiversity conservation recently visited the Pinoso Environmental Area to gain firsthand insight into its conservation efforts. Their journey included a visit to the restored quarries of Monte Coto.

Lighting up

VÍCTOR VALVERDE, the councillor for Orihuela’s Department of Infrastructure confirmed the works on the lighting system on the Los Arcos walkway have been carried out. The new lighting system, embedded at the height of the handrail, has not worked for about four years.

SANTA POLA has been hard at work getting the beaches ready for Easter.

Starting from Maundy Thursday to Easter Monday, lifeguard services will be active at Levante and Gran Playa beaches. They’ve also made sure accessible points are available for everyone.

Ángel Piedecausa, the Beaches councillor, confirmed that the council have been prepping the coastline for over three weeks to ensure everything is in top shape for the expected crowds during Holy Week. This includes thorough cleaning and freshe-

ning up the sand, tidying up areas near walls, and making sure all services

Ready, steady, beach Full of Life

CAIXABANK has kicked o the ‘Full of Life’ (Llenos de Vida) project in Santa Pola, teaming up with the town’s council to promote active ageing.

The initiative includes workshops covering various topics, digital skills, and healthy lifestyle habits.

Starting from April 2 until June 14, morning sessions will be held at the Santa Pola Civic Centre.

To sign up, you can call (+34) 966 696 208 or email parti cipa@santapola.es.

The goal of this CaixaBank programme is to encourage active ageing, foster healthy habits, promote ongoing learning, and enhance social connections.

By optimising opportunities for physical, social, and mental well-being among older individuals, the programme aims to improve their overall quality of life.

The healthy lifestyle workshops will introduce guidelines and habits for enjoying a balanced diet.

Meanwhile, the digital skills workshops will help participants understand and utilise social networks for communication and content sharing, including WhatsApp for messaging, calls, video calls, and group management.

and facilities are in tiptop condition.

Lifeguards will be on duty at Levante and Gran Playa beaches from Holy Thursday to Easter Monday, from 11.00am until 5.00pm.

They will also be available at the two accessible points for people with reduced mobility.

Additionally, public toilets on these two beaches will be open until April 1.

Tests have been conducted on natural beaches, confirming excellent water quality.

Legal help

IF you are grappling with legal questions or concerns related to inheritances, mortgages, land clauses, separation or divorce, alimony, defaults, labour issues, or other legal matters, the San Fulgencio Council recommends the JUSTIPROP legal advice service.

JUSTIPROP offers consultations and guidance on a variety of legal issues.

You can access this service every Tuesday at the Civic Centre offices in San Fulgencio from 4.00pm to 8.00pm, but appointments are required.

To schedule an appointment, you can reach JUSTIPROP by phone on (+34) 966 794 201 or via WhatsApp on (+34) 610 630 269.

This accessible and reliable legal advice service is dedicated to assisting residents of San Fulgencio in navigating their legal concerns, providing clarity and guidance when it’s needed most.

Scooter chaos

TORREVIEJA now has new rules and nes of up to €1,000 regarding the safety and use of electric scooters in the city.

It’s particularly crucial given the worrying data indicating that at least 100 of the 1,300 accidents recorded in the urban area of the city in 2023 involved this type of vehicle.

The presence of scooters in Torrevieja’s urban landscape is now com-

monplace, but their usefulness is overshadowed by the reckless behaviour of many users.

From driving on pavements in dangerous competition with pedestrians to travelling in prohibited directions and carrying more passengers than permitted, these practices pose serious risks, especially when carried out by underage drivers.

Despite explicit pro-

hibitions against minors using these vehicles, their increasing popularity among adolescents for daily commutes to secondary schools is evident.

While there is already a Local Police o cer tasked with disseminating tra c regulations in educational institutions, the escalating controversy surrounding scooter use among young people underscores the need for decisive action.

THE Rotary Club Guardamar recently hosted its big event of the year, the annual classic motor festival, held on March 23 at the Plaza del Ayuntamiento in Guardamar.

The festival was led by Francisco Jurado, who’s been part of the Rotary Club for over nine years and has served as president since 2023.

The event showcased over 150 classic motorcycles and cars, making it the biggest gathering in its 12-year history.

The festival drew thousands of people who enjoyed live music, dance performances, and delicious paella.

What’s more, the charity bar proceeds went to support the book bank of the IES Les Dunes School, making the event not just fun but also contributing to a good cause.

BEACH READY: Cleaning and tidying up taking place.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Santa Pola

Easter rush

ON Easter Sunday, March 31, Alicante-Elche airport will be very busy with 341 scheduled flights.

This is slightly less than Holy Saturday last year, which had 343 flights.

Compared to Easter Sunday in 2023, there will be 44 more flights, with 297 on that day.

The flights on Easter Sunday will be divided into 147 to European countries, 126 to the UK, 60 within Spain, and eight outside Europe.

Most of the tourists expected to arrive by plane for Easter come from the UK, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.

This is supported by search data from the JetCost portal, which shows that Alicante is the top choice for British travellers and the third for the Dutch during the Easter holidays.

The airport will be very busy.

Many tourists prefer to spend their Easter break in the Valencian Community, especially in Alicante.

Valencia is also a popular destination, ranking third for Italians, fourth for the Dutch, sixth for Germans, ninth for the British and French, and 11th for the Portuguese.

George Cunningham

AT the end of February, a month before Holy Week, Orihuela was gearing up for beach season.

They had set up wooden walkways on the sand to provide easy access to the 11 beaches in the area.

Orihuela boasts 16 kilometres of coastline, making it a hotspot for tourists and second-home owners, especially during Holy Week.

million.

One proposal even includes offering water sports.

Despite ensuring essential services like walkways, lifeguards, and functional toiletsall highly sought after by beachgoers - there’s a holdup with the beach bars which have been closed since January 2023.

The city is still waiting for the necessary documentation from the selected companies to finalise the contracts.

Several companies have bid for the beach bar contracts, which cover four years with a total value exceeding €2.5

The contracts are divided into four lots, with La Caleta and Aguamarina being the most coveted, while Cala Bosque, Cala Cerrada, and Cala Capitán are also up for grabs.

The lifeguard service is secured under the previous contract, but a new tender worth €3.8m until 2027 (with a possible extension to 2028) has been put out, ensuring safety on the beaches for the coming years.

Music concerts

ORIHUELA has arranged a series of sacred music concerts to enhance the cultural experience for residents and visitors during Holy Week.

These concerts will take place on the night of Holy Thursday and the early hours of Good Friday at various iconic locations throughout the city.

The programme kicks off with a performance on the façade of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Monserrate at 8.30pm, followed by two more concerts. One on the façade of the Santas Justa y Rufina Church and another in the Church of Santiago at 9.30pm.

These concerts will precede the Procession of Silence on Holy Thursday night.

The musical journey continues into the early hours of Good Friday, starting at 00.15am with a concert on the façade of Santo Domingo, followed by another at 00.30am on the Cathedral façade in Plaza del Salvador.

The concerts will feature quartets comprising esteemed professors from the Orihuela Professional Conservatory of Music.

They will perform a curated selection of sacred music, carefully chosen for this special occasion.

Chiringuito Cala Cerrada, Paseo del mar, s/n. Urb. La Zenia.

Image: Orihuela Turistica

Palm Sunday

ON Sunday, March 24, the day kicked off with a special blessing ceremony at the Santa Catalina hermitage in Pinoso.

The Parish Priest, Juan Bautista Llinares, blessed the palms and olive branches to mark the beginning of the day’s events.

The Procession-Pilgrimage commenced after the blessing, with a reenactment of Jesus and his Apostles making the first prophecy.

They proceeded along Calle Ancha, Maestro Domenech, and concluded their journey on Calle 12 de Febrero de 1826 next to the church.

The entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem was a grand affair, accompanied by the Bands of Bugles and Drums of the Holy Christ of the Good Death and Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno.

Upon reaching the Pa-

Easter bus

ORIHUELA is o ering up to ve free buses for residents of Orihuela Costa to visit Orihuela during the Holy Week festivities on March 29 and 30.

Departures will be from the Playa Flamenca roundabout, behind the town hall, at 5.00pm on both Friday and Holy Saturday, with a stop at the Entrenaranjos Urbanisation.

The return trip is scheduled for

rish Church, a Palm Sunday liturgical celebration took place, involving participation from the Apostles and the ‘San Pedro Apóstol’ Parish Choir.

The presidents of the brotherhoods and sisterhoods, who lead the processions during Holy Week in Pinoso, were present for the Procession-Pilgrimage, along with a large crowd of spectators.

11.00pm at the Gabriel Miró Glorieta in Orihuela.

Residents can reserve their seats through the Department of Tourism website using the link: orihuelaturistica. es.

This initiative aims to give coastal residents the chance to experience and enjoy the traditions and culture of Orihuela during Holy Week.

Salt, sea, & towers

TORREVIEJA: Its history is brief, but rich.

TORREVIEJA owes its existence to the sea, two saltwater lagoons, and the towers that gave it its name.

These elements played crucial roles in both the economy and defence of the coast for centuries.

While Torrevieja is a relatively young city, archaeological finds dating back to Roman times, like amphorae, anchors, and human remains, suggest an early human presence in the La Mata area.

Evidence also indicates Roman use of the salt flats, with remains of a factory found on the northern shore of La Mata lagoon used for salt extraction and processing.

The history of Torrevieja is brief but rich.

The first documented settlement was a

small fishing village near Cornuda Cove during the Middle Ages.

However, it wasn’t until 1770 that Torrevieja began to take shape as a village around the Torre Vieja tower.

Its growth was fuelled by activities like salt extraction, fishing, and maritime trade.

Salt mining was the primary driver of population growth, but agriculture also played a significant role.

Nearby farms produced various crops such as cereals, vines, almonds, and figs.

One such ancient farm, La Ceñuela, dates back to 1308 and underscores the importance of agriculture in the region’s history.

Image: Autoridad Portuaria de Alicante

Boosting adventure

ELDA recently embraced the growing popularity of via ferrata, which are mountain climbing routes equipped with steel cables, rungs, or ladders for safety.

They introduced three routes by the end of 2022, each with varying difficulty levels, and included the longest zip line in the Valencian Community.

This achievement attracted significant attention.

In its first year, around 3,200 people registered to try these routes, but it’s estimated that the actual number of participants may have been around 13,000.

Surprisingly, 80 per cent of these participants came from outside Elda, providing a considerable economic boost to the area through vertical tourism.

The province of Alicante is leading the way in via ferrata tourism within the Valencian Community.

In recent years, notable routes have been established in Redovan and Callosa de Segura.

Redovan’s route, launched in 2018, quickly became a top tourist attraction with its two sections of varying difficulty.

Initially, it held the record for being the longest in the Valencian Community at 900 metres, with plans for expansion.

Callosa de Segura’s route, introduced in 2020, surpassed Redovan’s length at 1,135 metres, making it the second longest in Spain.

More recently, Ibi joined the via ferrata trend with a new route providing access to Font Roja. This route crosses Barranc de les Raboses, located near the natural park’s access road.

VIA FERRATA: Mountain climbing routes.

Image: Elda Turismo

Easy Horse Care

THE Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre is on a noble mission to extend a compassionate hand to the equine community, providing a haven for those who have suffered abuse, neglect, or

This sanctuary not only offers solace and rehabilitation to horses, ponies, and donkeys but also serves as a beacon of advocacy for animal welfare across the country. Founded by Sue Weeding and her husband Rod, the sanctuary’s origins stem from a profound sense of duty and empathy towards animals. Sue’s lifelong affinity for horses propelled her to action when faced with distressing scenes of animal cruelty upon their relocation to Spain from England in

Operating without external funding, the sanctuary relies on the generosity of sponsors, donors, and revenue generated through their charity shop and guided tours. Despite financial constraints, Sue and Rod’s

unwavering commitment to their cause has propelled the sanctuary forward, garnering support from the local community and beyond. Their partnership with Rojales Council and its mayor has been instrumental in navigating the challenges of running a sanctuary of this magnitude.

Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness, individuals from all walks of life have the opportunity to contribute to this noble cause and make a tangible difference in the lives of animals in need.

Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre, +34 652 021 980 rescue@easyhorsecare. net easyhorsecare.net/

Sue envisions a future where compassion and empathy prevail, where every individual recognises their responsibility towards the welfare of animals. “I firmly believe in education to raise awareness of these horrible situations where humans mistreat innocent animals,” Sue says.

RESCUE CENTRE: A sanctuary for horses and donkeys.

Credit Eckhard Strittmatter for Easy Horse Rescue Centre

Unique event

ONCE again, Elche celebrated its cherished Palm Sunday procession, a unique event in the world. Over 65,000 locals participated, filling the streets with white palms of various sizes and intricacy, marking a day of tradition and festivity.

Blessed with good weather, this year’s procession, recognised as a Festival of International Tourist Interest since 1997, saw the entire municipal government in attendance, including the President of the Valencian Government, Carlos Mazón.

Before the iconic Jesus Triumphant procession commenced, palms were blessed at the Paseo de la Estación.

Mayor Pablo Ruz expressed his gratitude for the support of Elche’s tradition, especially with the presence of the President of the Generalitat. He remarked on the city’s vibrancy

ELCHE: A spectacle of tradition.

and eagerness to showcase its identity to the world.

President Carlos Mazón lauded Elche’s unique celebration of Palm Sunday, reflecting on the challenges faced by the white palm artisan sector during the pandemic.

He emphasised the importance of preserving traditions and praised Elche’s artistic display, which fills the streets with beauty.

Digital twin

THE Natural Park of the Torrevieja and La Mata lagoons now has a digital twin, cleverly named ‘Chan Twin’, in reference to the local slang used to identify foreigners in the area.

This digital twin serves as a technological representation of the protected physical space within the park, utilising advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, sensor data, cameras, and other sources of in-

formation. After a year of development, the application has been unveiled, offering real-time indicators such as visitor numbers, temperature readings, water salinity levels, noise levels, camera images, social media feedback, and ornithological observations.

The aim is to promote the park from a tourist perspective and provide a management tool for park authorities.

Step into history

CALLING all walkers! Take a step into history and join Orihuela’s hiking adventure on the Cross of Christ Path, known as the Camino del Lignum Crucis.

This path, beginning from Granja de Rocamora in the Valencian Community, connects towns and temples where a piece of the Cross of Christ is revered.

The first leg of this journey, a 19.5km stretch to Mahoya, passes through Orihuela, specifically La

Murada and Virgen del Camino.

The official route comprises six stages, totalling 130km from Granja de Rocamora to Caravaca de la Cruz.

On Saturday, April 6, there’s a hiking day planned, starting at 7.30am from Los Huertos fairgrounds in Orihuela.

The hike will kick off from Granja de Rocamora, pass through La Murada, and end in Mahoya.

Gonzalo Montoya, the

councillor for Tourism, encourages interested folks to sign up through the website www.orihuela turística.es, by phone at (+34) 965 304 645 or WhatsApp at (+34) 673 836 385.

The Lignum Crucis Way spans six stages: Granja de Rocamora-Mahoya (via Orihuela), Mahoya-El Fenazar, El Fenazar-Ulea, Ulea-Puebla de Mula, Puebla de Mula-Bullas, and Bullas-Caravaca de la Cruz.

HIKING ADVENTURE: The official route comprises six stages.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Orihuela.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Elche.

White palms

Anna Ellis

ELCHE has faithfully followed the yearly tradition leading up to Holy Week by sending white palms to various authorities for Palm Sunday, a Festival of International Tourist Interest.

Elche’s mayor, Pablo Ruz, described the palms as “five pieces of art,” representing the soul of Elche.

Every year, Elche sends curly palms to Pope Francis, adorned with a cross and the ‘magrana’ from the Misteri d’Elx, to mark the 75th anniversary of the Dogma of the Assumption in 2025.

Easter figures

WHITE PALMS: Five pieces of art.

Palms are also sent to the President of the Government, Pedro Sánchez, featuring a Lady emblematic of the city; to Queen Letizia, with a crown and the Virgin’s ‘M’ in the centre.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Elche

The mayor emphasised Elche’s pride in this tradition and its significance on Palm Sunday, particularly the palm presented to the Pope adorning the main altar in St Peter’s Square.

He thanked everyone involved in making this tradition possible, including the palm workshop members, the Serrano Valero family, and the people of Elche.

The white palms are carefully packaged in water and sulfur, wrapped in plastic, and secured in a wooden frame to prevent damage.

WEATHER forecasts heavily influence reservations for Easter on the Costa Blanca, leading tourists to wait until the last minute to finalise their plans.

Despite this uncertainty, forecasts already indicate a high occupancy rate of around 70 per cent in the province. HOSBEC, the hotel management association, emphasises the importance of last-minute bookings in boosting these figures, as many travellers are waiting for confirmation of favourable weather

conditions for their holiday.

From March 28 to April 1, the occupancy forecast for the Costa Blanca is close to 70 per cent.

A blustery day

CARP-R-US started their Spring Series on a cloudy, blustery day at El Bosquet. With many of the same pegs being used for matches on three consecutive days, fishing proved a bit hard on some pegs although there were some decent weights.

First and second were the two oldest members fishing with Doug Hornblow

just pipping Jean Pierre (JP) van de Cruyssen. Both fished a straight lead and used maggots to record weights of 17.68kg (Doug, peg 4) and 16.52kg (JP, peg 6). Third from peg 12 was Vinnie Smith who fished floating pole and maggot for 11.28kg.

Visit website www.carp-rus.weebly.com.

Door to door

MAYOR Joaquín Hernández of Dolores has confirmed the launch of the new door-to-door waste collection service starting on April 4.

This service, already successful in rural areas for over a year, will now extend to the urban area.

The mayor emphasised that this initiative reflects the town’s commitment to sustainability and environmental protection.

By implementing door-to-door collection, Dolores aims to increase recycling rates and reduce landfill waste.

The new system has been designed with residents’ needs in mind, with different collection times for each type of waste

Until 2022, Dolores has lagged behind the recycling average for the Valencian Community.

EU legislation mandates efforts to achieve specific recycling targets by 2025, with penalties for non-compliance.

The implementation of door-to-door waste collection in scattered areas of the municipality has proven successful. This service not only increases recycling rates and reduces landfill waste but also improves town cleanliness by eliminating rubbish containers from the streets.

Moreover, the cost of the service is expected to decrease as recycling increases.

Residents are encouraged to separate waste at the source, whether containers are present or not, to support these efforts.

The weather dictates.

Image: Turismo Costa Blanca / Facebook.

Mayor of Dolores, Joaquín Hernández.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Dolores

Las Fallas

Anna Akopyan

DATING back to the 18th century, Las Fallas is included in UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and continues to be an event which touches the hearts of families across Spain and beyond.

During the festive week, it is impossible to miss the Falleras. Dressed in traditional costumes, the young girls and women from the local towns parade proudly down the spring streets.

Being a Fallera is a commitment. The majority of the Falleras come from families in which generation after generation, women have been partaking in the celebration.

Dressed in traditional Valencian silk, embroidered and costly, the women and girls shine in family jewels as they compete for the prestigious title of the Fallas Queen.

It is not only the royal title which is associated with wealth and status, but the mere participation, being costly due to the exceptionally crafted costumes and jewels, is well-respected in the community.

As grandmothers watch their granddaughters in family heirlooms, one can see their excitable faces, remembering their past and looking forward to the future: a spring rebirth which Las Fallas represents.

Saved by the

SPAIN’S National Court ordered a temporary ban on the country’s fourth most-used messaging service, Telegram, on March 22.

FACUA (an NGO for the defence of consumer rights) released a statement that Telegram would cease to offer a service sometime the following day but complained that it would cause “enormous harm” to millions of users

The Court made the decision based on copyright infringement claims from a number of companies including Mediaset, Atresmedia and Movistar Plus.

bell

The businesses declared that Telegram was granting users to upload content without permission.

The service however continued over the weekend without any interruption.

It then transpired on Monday March 25, that the Judge had rescinded his order to allow for a police report on the platform to be reviewed as well as give an explanation of how a ban would affect users.

He also commented that to ban Telegram would be an “excessive and disproportionate measure.”

Cherry buds blossom

THE buds are appearing and will soon explode into a shower of pink petals.

The TV-Asahi cherry blossom avenue on the popular Berlin wall trail in Teltow is beginning to bud.

The best time to see the cherry blossoms is from mid-March and mid-April.

The trail was built on the border strip directly after the fall of the Wall, with financial support from a Japanese television station.

The Asahi channel launched a fundraising campaign to send this positive messa-

ge after the reunification of Germany.

Over 1,000 Japanese ornamental cherries were planted between 1990 and 2010 and still bloom once a year.

For the past 20 years people have been flocking to the area to enjoy the blossoms and take selfies.

Artist Christian Badel from Berlin is among them. “It’s nothing short of a miracle,” he says: “Where a wall once separated East and West Berlin, flowering cherry trees now line the path, scattering their petals across the street.”

LAS FALLERAS: Dressed in traditional costumes.

Credit: Anna Akopyan

Luxury uniforms

Nora Shephard

IN the world of luxury hospitality, the days of generic uniforms are over.

Now, hotels are opting for custom-made outfits designed by top fashion names.

At Istanbul’s Vakko Hotel, you’ll find doormen in stylish black tailcoats, peaked caps, and cream gloves, giving the place a timeless feel reminiscent of Europe’s historic luxury hotels.

While travellers don’t pick hotels solely based on staff outfits, uniforms play a big role in shaping the guest experience.

That’s why hotels are teaming up with fashion designers to make their uniforms stand out, reflecting the brand, identity, and location.

One example is NO Uniform, a company specialising in creating modern, eco-friendly attire tailored for the hospitality industry.

Inspired by Japanese culture, Nobu Hotel in London wears uniforms with kimono-style layers and obi-like sash belts, honouring the brand’s roots.

Started in 2002 by British designer Nicholas Oakwell, NO Uniform has worked with top hotels like Claridge’s, Raffles & Fairmont, and Rosewood, giving each collection a touch of luxury and flair.

The designer calls their approach “silent storytellers,” turning fabric into tales that capture each hotel’s spirit.

Their collaborations include Raffles Doha, blending Indian patterns with London’s classic style, reflecting the city’s diversity.

Meanwhile, Rosewood’s uniforms put a modern twist on British tailoring with lavish fabrics, adding to the brand’s elegant image.

NO UNIFORM: Working with top hotels.

Image: NO Uniform

Learning from their grandchildren

GRANDPARENTS are taking lessons from their grandchildren to learn how to use technology, the use of computers and the potential of mobile phones.

The initiative is part of a project set up by the Liceo Scientifico Galileo Galilei of Ancona, in collaboration with pensioners’ unions which involves all the pupils of the fourth year. Among these, a group of students will run a workshop to bring grandparents (their own or others from the city) closer to technology.

The initiative consists of three meetings at the school and involves an intra-generational activity of tutoring adults and elderly people on the use of computers and smartphones. In particular, the 30 students involved will guide the grandparents in setting up an e-mail account, how to use videoconferencing, and teach them how to use certain apps of interest, such as WhatsApp, Facebook, apps for downloading audio books and music, or apps for commercial use.

“This is a way of bringing two ge -

Learning how to use technology.

nerations even closer together and thus bridging a gap that should not exist,” said headmistress Alessandra Rucci. The meetings are open to all grandparents in Ancona, regardless of whether their grandchildren are enrolled at the school. “I would like to invite all grandparents to participate in this important initiative that brings generations together and is open to the entire community,” said Rucci.

Bargain or bust

Anna Ellis

A NEW solution to deal with the waste from excessive online shopping has emerged in Brussels: a store called Pile ou Face (Heads or Tails in French), dedicated to selling lost Amazon parcels.

The name hints at the uncertainty of buying something without knowing what’s inside.

The Userstam family, who started the shop, got the idea when they realised that many parcels from Amazon weren’t reaching their intended recipients.

These undelivered packages were piling up with courier companies because of address mistakes or packages not being claimed.

To tackle this problem, they talked to Amazon and finally got a contract to start Pile ou Face.

“Eighty-five per cent of the parcels we sell are from Amazon,” said Arnaud Userstam.

ONLINE SHOPPING: Selling lost Amazon parcels.

The shop has become popular, with lots of sales.

They even had to order “at least 100,000 parcels” to keep up with demand, showing that there’s a consistent supply of undelivered items and people are interested in buying them.

Deciding how much to charge for the mystery items in these boxes was tricky.

So, the shop decided to use a pay-per-kilo model, similar to some second-hand clothing stores.

Customers are encouraged to look at and shake the boxes to try to figure out what’s inside before buying.

The price is €16 per kilo.

This pricing method has let customers buy things like smartwatches, electronic gadgets, and even smartphones for much less than their normal prices.

The most valuable thing they’ve found so far was a Moncler jacket worth €1,500.

From ashes to glory

SINCE a devastating fire in April 2019, Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris has been on a restoration journey filled with obstacles and victories.

Over five years, efforts have been underway to meticulously restore the iconic landmark, to complete the work by the end of 2024.

French President Emmanuel Macron set an ambitious timeline of five years to complete the restoration.

Important milestones include removing charred scaffolding around the spire, restoring the cathedral’s organ, and selecting historic French oak trees to rebuild the spire.

In September 2021, efforts to secure the cathedral’s structure were finished, thanks to the work of carpenters, scaffolding experts, and climbers.

In spring 2022, master craftsmen from across France began the careful process of cleaning and restoring Notre Dame’s famous stained glass windows.

Restoration efforts also received assistance from abroad, with Germany’s Cologne Cathedral helping with four windows.

A significant moment in the restoration occurred in July 2023 when massive oak trusses were installed onto Notre Dame, coinciding with preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

In December 2023, a symbolic moment took place as a golden rooster, symbolising a phoenix, returned to the top of the spire, symbolising Notre Dame’s rebirth.

Religious relics, including fragments of Jesus Christ’s Crown of Thorns, were placed in a time capsule inside the golden bird.

In February 2024, the unveiling of the cathedral’s new spire, adorned with the golden rooster and a cross, offered a glimpse into Notre Dame’s future as it approached its grand reopening.

Restorers are optimistic that the cathedral will reopen to the public by the end of 2024, marking the conclusion of years of meticulous restoration efforts.

Notre Dame is being restored.

Image: Notre Dame Cathedral Paris / Facebook.

TRANSPARENT luggage filled with water rolling down the baggage reclaim belt at Faro Airport will raise awareness among arriving tourists to save water during their stay. The idea is part of a new Turismo de Portugal campaign under the slogan, ‘Be futuristic, save water’.

See-through suitcases OnlyFans attitudes

“We need to mobilise tourists, we should be concerned about leaving the right footprint in the destinations we visit. This is even more relevant and pertinent when we are witnessing worsening climate change, which has an ever-increasing impact on the pressure of our natural resources,” said Lídia Monteiro of Turismo de Portugal.

“The truth is that we use more water than we need, but most of us don’t realise it. And that’s exactly what we’re aiming to do with this campaign: to challenge tourists, those who visit the Algarve, to do things differently during their holidays, that they can visit the Algarve in a more conscious way,” she said.

One way of making an impact, “is precisely to materialise what is most symbolic about a trip, in transparent suitcases that represent that you

are travelling and, in this case, by showing how much water per day you can save.” There will be six transparent, water filled suitcases, mixed in

with tourists’ luggage, “which we believe will create interesting reactions among the new arrivals,” said Monteiro.

“We deliberately chose to stimulate the adoption of behaviour in a surprising, intriguing way, with some humour that will also arouse curiosity,” she concluded.

PEOPLE generally have more negative views towards a potential partner who uses OnlyFans compared to those who watch regular pornography.

In fact, attitudes towards dating someone who uses OnlyFans are similar to those towards dating someone who has paid for sex.

A recent survey on attitudes towards sex workers found that most people in Britain wouldn’t want to date or be in a relationship with a sex worker.

But the survey also asked if people felt the same way about those who use sex services compared to those who provide them.

The survey revealed that 18 per cent of Britons would consider dating someone who has paid for sex in the past, which is

close to the 14 per cent who would date a former sex worker.

However, a majority of people, especially women, would be unwilling to date someone who has paid for sex.

People are even more hesitant to date someone who subscribes to content creators on platforms like OnlyFans, especially if they interact with the creators.

Nearly two-thirds of respondents said they would be unwilling to date someone who subscribes to such accounts, with even more reluctance if there’s interaction involved.

Women are particularly put off by this behaviour compared to men, with a significant majority expressing unwillingness to date someone who subscribes to OnlyFans or pays for sex.

TRANSPARENT LUGGAGE: Raising awareness among arriving tourists.

Photo: Turismo de Portugal

The Virgin de la Pieda

John Smith

SOME Spanish towns are known for street art, Smurfs or witchcraft whilst others stand out for a single event which takes place annually.

In the 15th century, a worker from the town of Guadix in Granada, Juan Pedernal, was demolishing a wall of an abandoned mosque in neighbouring Baza when his pickaxe almost destroyed a hidden 12th century statue of the Virgin.

Legend says that the Virgin uttered the words “Baza - Guadix, have mercy on me” as the pickaxe just touched her cheek and since that day she has been known as the Virgen de la Piedad (pity or compassion).

Where should the Virgin reside though? Both towns claimed her and it went to the courts but no formal decision was made, however it was agreed between the Burgers of the two towns that

it would stay in pristine state in the Merced church in Baza and once a year on September 6, a representative from Guadix could try to claim it. Whilst it sounds easy, this is not the case as the person chosen, known as Cascamorras, a semi-religious character, dressed in a multicoloured costume, similar to that of a harlequin, leaves Guadix en route for Baza.

At 6pm on September 6, a rocket is fired and a drum is beaten and the

festival begins and to be successful the Cascamorras must recover the Virgin without a single stain appearing on his costume but locals who are out in force are armed with thick black paint and they chase him around the town ensuring that he and most of them are painted black.

From time to time, the people of Guadix are allowed to borrow the Virgin for a few days on the understanding that it is returned home on September 9.

The clean Cascamorras on his way to Baza.

Credit: Baza Council

Good Neighbours

John Smith

THESE are the last of those commended for the Good Neighbour Awards 2024 as announced by Age in Spain.

Kimberly Olsson, from Torrevieja, has a reputation locally for caring for the feral cats in the neighbourhood. But recently, while feeding the colony of cats that come to her, she found a man whom she initially thought was dead.

When she discovered he was still alive, she took responsibility for finding him shelter, washing and ironing his clothes, and dealing with the bureaucracy around getting him into the social care system.

She registered him with Helping Hands in San Luis to provide food for him and has followed this up by ensuring that he is in contact with a

social worker. Says the neighbour who nominated this Good Samaritan “He is a gentle Spanish man who had fallen on hard times. Without Kimberly I don’t know what would have happened to him.”

The final commendation was for Esther de Veer from Lloret Blau, nominated by her 90-year-old neighbour whom Esther has been helping in all sorts of ways since the neigh-

bour had a bad accident.

Apart from shopping and cooking for her neighbour, Esther has been walking her dogs and dealing with all the requirements of daily life. Her neighbour commented “As I live alone and recently celebrated my 90th birthday, it gives me great peace of mind to know Esther is at the end of the phone.

“I believe she helps others, but she doesn’t talk about it.”

Kimberley Olsson. Esther de Veer.

IRELAND

Opposing views

MICHAEL HEALY-RAE, chairman of the Joint Committee on Assisted Dying, was accused of undermining the findings of the final report which recommended legalisation “in very limited circumstances.” Healy-Rae personally opposes the measure and fellow committee members said his position was now “untenable.”

From afar

FOREIGN AFFAIRS minister Micheal Martin announced that the Irish government is committed to contributing $2 million (€1.36 million) to developing a new venue for the Canada Ireland Foundation in Toronto. It will be housed on Eireann Quay near the memorial to Irish immigrants who arrived there during the Famine.

NORWAY

Scandi noir

NETFLIX plans to begin filming a series based on Joe Nesbo’s thriller, The Devil’s Star, which will be directed by Oystein Karlsen and produced by the UK production company Working Title. Nesbo, who is also responsible for the scripts that feature his antihero Harry Hole, will be making his debut as a screenwriter.

Cold call

PARATROOPERS from the Eleventh Airborne Division parachuted down to Norway’s Lake Takvanet on March 18 after taking off from Alaska and flying over the North Pole as part of their cold-weather field training. Together with 100 soldiers from Norway’s army, they were taking part in Nato’s Arctic Shock exercises.

EURO PRESS

DENMARK

Gender bias

ONLY five of Copenhagen’s 101 statues depict women, although 70 are dedicated to men and 16 to animals. Culture minister, Jakob Engel-Schmidt admitted that “mythical beasts and horses” outnumbered women and said the government would spend 50 million Danish kroner (€6.7 million) on addressing the imbalance.

ITALY FRANCE

Lost legend

MARCELLO GANDINI, the Italian car designer responsible for the “Lamborghini doors” also known as “scissor doors” used on luxury sports cars, died aged 85 on March 13 in Turin. Gandini created his first concept car when he was only 20 years old and joined the Italian industrial design company Gruppo Bertone aged 27.

Taxing times

ITALY’S tax authority, Agenzia delle Entrate, hopes to encourage more people to pay their taxes by making the system more user-friendly. Innovations include making more of the Agency’s services available online and introducing a system for a prior appointment instead of taking a number and joining a long queue.

GERMANY PORTUGAL

Flying visit

SMART detectors, which use robotic technologies and belong to Andalucia’s Astrophysics Institute, registered a fireball travelling at 61,000 kilometres per hour on entering the atmosphere over Portugal early on March 16. It broke up 87 kilometres after entry at an altitude of 19 kilometres near Cano (Alentejo).

Early settler

PORTUGUESE, Spanish and German paleontologists identified a new type of dinosaur that lived 150 million years ago in the Lourinha area. The relatively small herbivorous species, which would have walked on two legs, was first discovered in 2021 during excavations at the fossil-rich rock at Porto Dinheiro beach.

Sly spy

A PROFESSIONAL soldier posted to the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support, was charged with spying for Russia. Held in custody since August 2023, he offered his cooperation to the Russian consulate in Bonn and the Russian embassy in Berlin, Public Prosecutors said.

Plain speaking

THE Bavarian government approved a regulation that limits the use of gender-sensitive language in official documents and in public places. Officials and teachers in the region may no longer use asterisks, colons and other symbols to make nouns more inclusive “because language must be clear and understandable.”

Big honour

PRESIDENT Emmanuel Macron presented the world’s richest man, LVMH-owner Bernard Arnault, with France’s most prestigious award, the Legion of Honour, at a state dinner on March 14. Also present were Beyonce and Elon Musk as Macron declared that Arnault “knew how to sell a form of eternal Frenchness.”

Drink up

THE outdoor terraces of cafes, bars and restaurants will be allowed to remain open until midnight instead of having to close at 10pm during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Paris City Hall announced. The ruling will benefit 3,000 of the city’s 15,000 business owners who have licences for summer terraces.

FINLAND

Not popular

AN online exit poll revealed that only 10 per cent of Russian citizens living in Finland voted for Vladimir Putin in the recent elections. Forty-four per cent had voted for Vladislav Davankov, 20 per cent deliberately spoilt their voting papers and approximately 25 per cent declined to reveal how they voted.

Drive on

FOLLOWING the March 15 “transition period” deadline, Russian-registered vehicles will be legal so long as the driver can demonstrate their legal right to use it. The Enforcement Department explained that the concession also covered individuals who have fled the Ukraine war and are under international protection.

SWEDEN

Drinking less

ALCOHOL consumption in the over-15s fell to 8.6 litres per head in 2023, according to the Swedish Council for Information on Alcohol and Other Drugs (CAN). Except for 2020 during the pandemic, this was the lowest level in almost 10 years, which CAN’s experts attributed to the economic situation.

Milk run

DRONES will soon be delivering milk in an initiative that debuts in May in Varmdo, near Stockholm, but will eventually reach the entire country. Customers using the existing Foodora food and grocery deliveries app can place orders that are delivered by Aerit Nimbi drones which can carry up to four kilos.

Protected past

FLEMISH HERITAGE minister Matthias Diependaele announced that the remains of a Carolingian-era fort in Lanaken will receive official protection as an archaeological site. Discovered by chance seven years ago, the fortress would have controlled the access road to the River Maas (Meuse) and Maastricht in approximately 750 AD.

Second-hand

ORANGE BELGIUM opened an online store for reconditioned smartphones, as the operator emphasised its commitment to a “green and circular” economy. In 2023, the operator collected 37,000 mobile phones and sold 13,500 refurbished devices in Belgium, where more than three million new smartphones are unused.

NETHERLANDS

Flower power

ROBOTS now patrol tulip fields examining plants for sick flowers, which they then remove along with virus-infected bulbs if necessary. The back-backing job was once carried out by human checkers but, as one grower said, “The robot is expensive, but there are so few people left who can detect sick tulips.”

Bank spoof

CENTRAL bank De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) warned that scammers are sending out fake emails, messages and phone calls from supposed employees. The tricksters persuade victims to transfer money or give access to their accounts after demonstrating that the number they are calling from appears on DNB’s website.

LITTLE MERMAID: Copenhagen landmark is a mythical female.

No Need to Paint are looking for promotional homes

NO NEED TO PAINT, the number one Spray Coating for property exteriors have been established on the Costa Blanca since 1991.

One of our very first clients Mrs Ballmer of Javea has recently had her property recoated with No Need To Paint unique Andura, Long life Coating. It is proven to last in excess of 15 years and is fully washable which is important when the Sahara Sand rain comes.

It is breathable and will stop penetrating damp also, it will not fade appreciably in colour. No Need To Paint have a unique 15 year insurance back guarantee, which is testament to the quality of the product.

The treatment No Need To Paint we will carry out on your property is not a decoration. It is a renovation! The first process is to thoroughly wash all

the walls, using a treatment to remove surface contamination and algae etcetera. Once all the surfaces have been cleaned, any cracks are filled with

flexible fillers, loose render is repaired and reinstated. When the surfaces are 100 per cent sound all the walls are primed and stabilised.

The next stage is to mask, with paper and tape, all doors, windows and floors, not requiring treatment. The Andura Coating is then applied with a

heavy duty airless spray machine, applying a minimum of two coats to each section.

Finally, once the property has been fully coated the masking tape is removed and the site cleared.

The homeowner can now look forward to a minimum of 15 years, peace of mind! No regular repainting every three or four years, no more penetrating damp, which is a problem in Spain and walls that can be hosed or power washed to keep them looking their best No Need To Paint is offering a FREE survey and quotation service, where everything is put in writing and valid for up to three months. No Need To Paint is always looking for Promotional Homes to showcase their work with the homeowner enjoying a special discount, subject to certain terms and conditions.

John Smith

AN interesting petition has appeared on the Change.org website which suggests that the Junta de Andalucia is wasting significant amounts of money.

Elena Alba Escribano explained that her fatherin-law recently had a hip replacement and was supplied with a large number of very helpful appliances such as a zimmer frame, crutches, raised toilet seat and more.

Once he was properly recovered, the family wanted to return the items, only to be told that the Health Authority really didn’t want the material back and it could effectively be thrown away.

The retail cost of a cheap zimmer frame is around €50 and a pair of crutches about €30 but when you consider the number of people living in Andalucia, the cost of purchasing these absolutely necessary items is going to be colossal especially if they are not re-used.

Spain boasts about its

Dump it

ability to recycle and be green, but this is such an obvious and easy way of saving tax payers’ money and also stopping the wasteful use of materials when in most cases the appliances can be cleaned, disinfected and put straight back into use.

It’s not as if all regional health authorities follow the Andalucian model as

in Castilla y León there is a set procedure for dealing with the return of most of these items.

The petition calls for the Ministry of Health to urge all autonomous communities to make responsible use of public resources and implement a loan and return system for implements that can be sensibly re-used.

IT’S arrivederci to Starbuck’s much hated palms and banana trees in Milan’s Piazza Duomo. Operations to dismantle the tropical flowerbed designed by Starbucks in front of the cathedral began on the morning of Wednesday February 21.

Palms and banana trees have been decorating the flowerbed in front of the cathedral since 2017: the tender for the arrangement of the small garden in the city centre was won at the time by Starbucks. A choice that aroused much controversy at the time and divided the city, between supporters of the initiative for its originality and detractors for its lack of adherence to the city’s history.

Renewed in 2019, the contract expired in 2023. The new tender was won by the luxury group Zegna, which proposed a radical change: instead of palms and banana trees, plants typical of the Piedmontese Alps.

Zegna’s project will bring to the centre of Milan more characteristic elements of the vegetation of the Oasi Zegna, an area of about 100 square kilometres in the Biellese Alps owned by Ermenegildo Zegna since the 1930s and planted with over half a million conifers.

The new flowerbeds will feature a permanent basic structure consisting of four evergreen, leafy groves of bus -

Banana trees replaced Britons’ hopes

IN a recent YouGov survey, Britons were asked about their foremost hope in life at present.

The findings reveal a diverse spectrum of aspirations.

For 29 per cent of respondents, health emerges as the paramount hope.

Among them, 16 per cent prioritise maintaining their existing good health, while 4 per cent yearn for personal health enhancements.

Additionally, 6 per cent express a desire for the well-being of their family, and 4 per cent simply seek longevity and prosperity.

Notably, individuals aged over 65 exhibit the highest inclination towards health-related aspirations, with 48 per cent selecting this category, whereas a mere 7 per cent of 18-24-year-

hy camphor trees of different ages. These will include, in rotation, rhododendrons from autumn to late spring, followed by philadelphus plants, which guarantee the creation of a favourable habitat for the presence of butterflies and pollinating insects in the centre of the city.

olds align with this preference.

Following closely are hopes entwined with finances, accounting for 15 per cent of respondents’ top priorities.

Within this group, 9 per cent aspire for financial stability, which might encompass debt clearance or maintaining a steady financial state.

Meanwhile, 3 per cent express a general desire for increased financial resources, while another 3 per cent harbour dreams of a significant windfall, such as winning the lottery.

Family-centric hopes hold sway as the leading choice for 15 per cent of Britons.

These aspirations often interlace with other spheres, encompassing wishes for the improved health of family members or the overall happiness

and well-being of loved ones.

Some respondents also express aspirations related to initiating or expanding their families, or fostering greater quality time together.

The pursuit of happiness takes precedence for 12 per cent of respondents, with many extending this aspiration to include the happiness of their family members.

However, for many, the focus remains on their contentment and fulfilment.

Career-related aspirations claim the top spot for 4 per cent of respondents overall, though among 18-24-year-olds, this category garners greater favour, with 15 per cent expressing hopes for securing a new or improved job, achieving promotion, or advancing within their careers.

Zimmer frame could be used by many different people.

Credit: Rawpixel

The tropical flowerbed in Milan.

Photo: Flickr CC / Arcansel

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

World Brain Week Guardamar tour

Marina Lorente

JOIN the enriching guided tour in English, curated to unveil the captivating history and picturesque landscapes of Guardamar. Led by professional tourist guides, embark on an unforgettable journey through the town’s most remarkable historic sites and scenic landscapes. Embark on an enriching exploration of Guardamar.

The adventure commences at the illustrious Guardamar Castle, where a knowledgeable guide will unravel tales of its rich history, legendary narratives, and intriguing anecdotes.

After a delve into the tranquil allure of the Pinada, an emblematic Mediterranean forest adorned with sprawling pine trees. Engage in an

insightful exploration of the ecosystem and its significance. The tour continues unearthing the mysteries of La Fontenta, an archaeological site steeped in antiquity. Conclude the expedition at the remarkable La Rabita, an ancient Islamic prayer site dating back to the 10th century. Celebrate its pivotal discovery, marking a significant milestone in Spanish history.

Practical Information:

Duration: The tour spans two hours, covering a 1.5km walking

Fitness walks

FITNESSWALK® is coming to Torrevieja, promising a delightful experience for all. The goal is to infuse every step with joy and positivity, creating an atmosphere filled with excitement and good vibes.

This event offers a perfect blend of walking and aerobic exercises designed to tone and invigorate your body and nervous system. Suitable for all fitness levels.

Regular exercise not only boosts energy levels but also combats depression, reduces stress, enhances sleep quality, and improves muscle tone and balance.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to socialise, and our event provides.

For more information

You can find tickets for

the cost of €10 on their website.

https://fitnesswalk.eu/

distance.

Ticket Price: Entrance is priced at €5 per person, with a reduced rate of €4 available for youths aged eight to 18, students, and retirees.

Ticket Purchase:

Secure your tickets from Monday to Friday at La Casa de Cultura, ensuring your place on this captivating journey. Or visiting Guardamar Council website.

THE cultural association

Ars Creatio, on the occasion of World Brain Week, organised free guided tours for the whole family to the Natural History Museum of Torrevieja.

The Brain and Cajal at the museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into neuroscience while commemorating the 170th anniversary of Santiago Ramón y Cajal’s birth.

Cajal, a Spanish physician and Nobel laureate, made groundbreaking contributions to understanding the nervous system’s structure.

The event, hosted at the Torrevieja Natural History Museum, showcases marine species alongside educational exhibits translated into English, catering to both locals and tourists, highlighting the city’s maritime heritage.

Visitors can explore the Mediterranean’s biodiversity and engage in brain workshops, delving into how our brains function and their similarities with other species like dolphins.

Guided tours, available on select days until March 31, offer in-depth insights

into Cajal’s work and neuroscience. Registration for these tours is free but mandatory.

This event not only celebrates Cajal’s legacy but also promotes scientific literacy and appreciation for marine life. It serves as a testament to Torrevieja’s cultural richness and commitment to education and outreach in science.

Entrance to the museum is free and opening hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10am to 2pm.

Credit: Guardamar Turismo

Guardamar castle where the adventure begins.

IN the realm of culinary delights, time seems to have sprinted with astonishing speed, heralding nearly a decade of savoury sensations at Punjabi Palace I in La Marquesa, nestled snugly at the base of the golf course. Meanwhile, Punjabi Palace II in Cabo Roig is poised to commemorate its sixth year in the culinary landscape. Both establishments are veritable beacons of gastronomic excellence, renowned for their delectable North Indian cuisine.

Punjabi Palace is not just a restaurant; it’s an odyssey through the rich tapestry of Indian flavours. With a sprawling menu offering an array of options, from succulent meat dishes to flavourful vegetarian dishes, every palate finds its paradise here. Whether you adhere to a vegan, halal, or gluten-free diet, your preferences will be catered to with meticulous care, ensuring a deeply satisfying dining experience.

Despite modest increases in prices, Punjabi Palace remains

Punjabi Palace - A rich tapestry of Indian flavours

determined in its commitment to delivering generous portions of high-quality food at reasonable rates. The hallmark of their success lies in their unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction. This personalised service, coupled with a genuine concern for customers, has earned them a devoted following, with enthusiasts travelling from distant areas to partake in the Punjabi Palace experience week after week.

Step inside, and you’ll find yourself enveloped in a vibrant

atmosphere, where people of diverse nationalities converge to revel in culinary bliss. The La Marquesa branch boasts a spacious interior delicately adorned and complemented by a sun-kissed terrace with beautiful plants, exuding warmth and tranquillity - an idyllic setting for family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or convivial evenings with friends.

Their culinary expertise has not gone unnoticed, having clinched the TripAdvisor Excellence Award thrice, along

with culinary accolades and recognition as the finest Indian restaurant in the region, cementing their status as culinary connoisseurs.

Both establishments welcome diners seven days a week, offering a fabulous lunchtime special from noon to 3pm for a mere €12.95 per person, followed by evening service from 6pm until late, with the exception of Tuesdays when afternoon closures are observed.

For those yet to embark on a gastronomic voyage at Punjabi

Palace, there’s no better time than during their upcoming anniversary celebration. Mark your calendars for April 11, as they commemorate a decade of culinary excellence. Priced at €59.95 per couple, the anniversary soirée promises an evening of indulgence, accompanied by live music courtesy of Paula - a fitting tribute to a decade of delectable delights. Treat yourself and your partner to the pinnacle of Indian cuisine amidst an ambiance steeped in celebration and sophistication.

You can call the restaurants on the following numbers and also make reservations via Facebook:Booking is highly recommended.

Punjabi Palace I – La Marquesa Golf, Quesada – Tel: 966 714 963 • Punjabi Palace II – CC Lomas de Cabo Roig – Tel: 865 754 972

ASTER’S E

COMING !

Easter Tree

THE Easter Tree is often overshadowed by its more famous counterpart, the Christmas Tree.

While the tradition of decorating trees for Christmas gained popularity in Britain thanks to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s German roots, it’s lesser known that Germans also have a tradition of decorating trees for Easter.

In Germany, it’s customary to adorn trees with painted eggs during Easter, a tradition known as Ostereierbaum or ‘Easter egg tree’.

The Ostereierbaum

tradition is steadily gaining popularity around the world.

It involves adorning small trees or bushes with colourful Easter eggs tied with ribbons.

Unlike traditional Christmas trees, there’s no need for stands or lights; simply hang the eggs and start celebrating.

The exact origins of this tradition remain uncertain, with various rumours circulating but none definitively verified.

However, what is clear is that families in Germany have been practising this custom for centuries.

Image: aprilante / Shutterstock.com

One of the most renowned examples is the Saalfelder Ostereierbaum, which boasted over 10,000 decorated eggs in 2012.

However, the Guinness World Record for the most eggs on a single tree belongs to a tree decorated by the Rostock Zoo, with an astonishing 79,596 eggs.

Traditional Spanish food

THERE is very little time left to enjoy Easter, and with it, the gastronomy that this special time of the year offers us.

Spanish Easter recipes vary across the different parts of the territory, but it is certain that the ingredients used observe the Catholic tradition, which is why none of them incorporates meat.

Torrijas (French toast), buñuelos (fritters) and potaje de vigilia (stew) are the best-known dishes, but beyond that, there is a wide variety of dishes specific to each Spanish region.

Valencian titaina

The origin of this dish is to be found in the maritime neighbourhoods of Valencia, specifically the Cabanyal, and its recipe has been passed down from generation to generation. It is a kind of stir-fry made with tomato, roasted red pepper, pine nuts, garlic and salted tuna belly (tonyina de sorra). It can be served hot or cold.

La Aceitada, in Zamora

Aceitadas are traditional Easter Week pastries from Zamora that do without any animal fat, that is to say, they only use oil as fat. By avoiding the use of butter or lard, products of animal origin, they are ideal for these dates.

Mona de Pascua

This dessert is reminiscent of the Roscón de Reyes because it contains orange blossom water and is very popular in Valencia, Murcia, Catalonia, Aragon and some regions of Castile-La Mancha, which is why each area has its own variant, as it is so widespread. However, the tradition remains the same, and consists of the godparents giving their godchildren a mona mona on Easter Monday

Hornazo, in Jaen

For this reason, it is one of the main dishes in Spanish homes on Good Friday.

This stew made with chickpeas, spinach and cod has its origins in the late Middle Ages, when the consumption of salted fish, ie dried with salt, became widespread in Spain.

Torrijas

There is no Easter Week without torrijas. This dessert is part of Spanish gastronomy and consists of a slice of bread (usually not of the day, as it is somewhat hard) that is soaked in milk or wine and, after being coated in egg batter, is fried in a frying pan with oil. It is sweetened with honey, treacle or sugar and flavoured with cinnamon. It is similar to French toast.

Garlic soup

Garlic soup, also known as sopa castellana, is a humble recipe, which is traditionally eaten in Castile and Leon all year round, but especially at Easter.

This dessert is similar to the Mona de Pascua. It is a pastry of dough made with extra virgin olive oil, flavoured with aniseed, topped with an egg and dough in the shape of a cross. Hornazos are made and eaten throughout Holy Week, particularly on Easter Sunday in the city of Jaen.

Porrusalda

Originally from the Basque Country, it has become a very typical Easter and Lenten recipe. This stew is characterised by its simple preparation and its humble ingredients.

Its name means ‘leek broth’ and although leek is its main ingredient, potatoes, onion and even carrot or pumpkin can be added.

Vigil stew

This spoon dish is made with cod instead of pork, so it is suitable for observing religious precepts that call for no meat to be eaten at this time of year.

The ingredients are: water or broth, bread (usually stale bread left over from previous days), paprika, bay leaf, garlic, olive oil and poached egg.

Buñuelos

Of course, fritters are a must in this list. This buñuelos are fritters that differ from the rest in that the dough is flavoured with white wine, the zest of a citrus fruit and aniseed.

The recipe is very simple: a paste of flour, water, oil, milk, eggs and yeast is prepared and fried in the form of small balls that inflate due to the heat, making them very, very fluffy.

Don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional Spanish food at this special time of year, you won’t be disappointed.

Cheese hurling at Easter

Kevin Fraser Park

IT’S ‘Pasquetta’ as Easter Monday is called in Italy and the hills and valleys of the country echo with the sound of very competitive games of ‘ruzzolone’, a traditional sport of ancient origins.

The game was already practised by the ancient Etruscans. The tomb of the Olympian of Tarquinia depicts the so-called discobolus; the throwing a wheel of cheese, usually very hard and resistant mature sheep’s cheese, which shepherds threw along the sheep-tracks.

Today the game is also played with a wooden wheel but the same rules apply: a long strap is wrapped many times around the cheese, the player then takes a run up and hurls the cheese along the road giving the strap an extra whiplash motion at the end to really make it fly.

A wooden wheel.

The winner is the one who hurls the cheese the furthest after a number of throws or reaches a set distance with the fewest number of throws. Traditionally he (and it is invariably a ‘he’) took an opponent’s cheese home as the prize.

Why this is the tradition on Easter Monday nobody really knows. It is said a certain Signor Baraccani on a mid-Lent afternoon sometime in the 17th century, lost his family’s entire possessions which included the castle of Monterastello near Modena, on a throw of a wheel of cacio pecorino cheese.

Gambling on the result of the game was stopped as a result and there have also been attempts to ban it because of the inherent danger.

Procession of the Palms

THIS centuries-old tradition, steeped in religious significance, has earned international recognition as a Festival of International Tourist Interest.

At the heart of the Palm Sunday procession lies a profound symbol: the reenactment of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Elche’s rendition of this ancient ritual is truly distinctive, owing to its steadfast preservation of the traditional art of weaving the iconic white palm fronds.

Sourced from the lush groves of the Palmeral de Elche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these meticulously crafted palms are renowned for their exquisite beauty and symbolic significance. Each year, artisans produce approximately 500,000 palms of varying sizes, with a portion remaining in the city as cherished mementos, while the majority are exported to destinations worldwide, adorning the homes of dignitaries and devout followers alike.

The procession, which traces its origins back to the 14th century, commences promptly at 11.00am on Palm Sunday, setting off from the picturesque Paseo de la Estación. Drawing crowds of over 10,000 visitors annually, the event captivates spectators with its vibrant display of faith and tradition. Local residents, adorned in their finest attire,

proudly carry their palms, symbolising their reverence for the sacred occasion. Notably, the procession also showcases the winning entries from the Palm Contest organised by the Junta de Cofradías de Elche, adding an element of competition and artistry to the proceedings.

In anticipation of the procession, the Mercado de la Palma Blanca (White Palm Market) springs to life across various locations in the city, including the town hall, Plaza de Barcelona, Plaza de Madrid, and Altabix.

Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, perusing an array of meticulously crafted palms and selecting the perfect keepsake to commemorate the occasion. Additionally, on the morning of the procession, palms are available for purchase at the Paseo de la Estación, conveniently located next to the tourist office.

Image: palms / visitelche.com

Photo: Flickr CC / stezano

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Powering up

ROLLS-ROYCE will invest £55m (€64.4m) and create 300 jobs as demand grows for engines for large non-military aircraft, chief executive Tufan Erginbilgic announced. Half of the investment and 200 of the new jobs will go to the Derby plant while the remainder will go to Dahlewitz in Germany.

Tesla hike

OWING to stalled sales, the cost of Tesla’s Model Y went up by €2,000 on March 22 after the company announced price increases in several Europeancountries. Although the electric carmaker did not specify the countries involved beforehand, sources revealed that Spain, where the cheapest Model Y cost €42,900, would be affected.

Going further

ASTRAZENECA will pay

$2.4 billion (€2.2 billion) for Canadian cancer specialist Fusion Pharmaceuticals, which is developing nextgeneration treatments that minimise damage to healthy cells. This follows the UK company’s $1.2 billion (€1.1 billion) purchase of Chinese cell therapies company, Gracell Biotechnologies.

Slim chance

MEXICAN business magnate Carlos Slim controls practically all of Spanish property developer, Realia, after acquiring the 15 per cent owned by the Polygon Group for €138 million via FCC, which he bought in 2016, and his company Finver Inversiones. Slim now owns 92.6 per cent of Realia, valued at €865m.

Ads slump

AS advertising revenue dips, ITV is cutting jobs at its inhouse advertising agency and introducing £150m (€175.6m) cost-cutting plans a year earlier than intended. Chief executive Dame Carolyn McCall also reported further restructuring that would save an additional £50 million (€58.5 million) each year.

€2.98 billion STAT OF WEEK

turnover in 2023 for MasMovil - a 3 per cent increase on 2022 - during the company’s last year as an independent operator prior to its merger with Orange.

Going down, down

INFLATION in the UK dipped to 3.4 per cent in February, its lowest for two and a half years.

The decline in the consumer prices index (CPI) from January’s 4 per cent was partly due to slower price rises for food and restaurant price, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said on March 20.

Second-hand car prices have fallen by 7.3 per cent over the last year compared with an annual decline of 5.9 per cent in January. The figure for core inflation, which omits unpredictable items like oil and food, dro -

pped from 5.1 to 4.5 per cent.

Services inflationclosely watched by the Bank of England for clues of an easing in domestic inflation - fell by 0.1 percentage point less than expected

TENDAM, best known for its Cortefiel, Springfield and Women’s Secret labels amongst others, is preparing to go public.

As predicted, based on October 2023 Reuters reports, Tendam has selected Paribas, Citigroup and JPMorgan as the lead managers and global coordinators of the initial public offer (IPO) with an estimated value of €2 billion.

Societe Generale, Credit Agricole, BBVA and CaixaBank will join the investment banks as co-managers, with the further addition of a ‘third line’ expected in coming weeks, the financial daily Cinco Dias revealed

from 6.5 to 6.1 per cent.

Earlier, analysts had predicted that the CPI would fall to 3.5 per cent instead of the 3.4 per cent that took inflation to its lowest level since September 2021 when it stood at 3.1 per

cent. It was also the fastest fall in inflation since 1978.

“Good news for you, your family and the country,” Britain’s PM Rishi Sunak said on March 30.

It was also good news for Sunak as well as the Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, now that inflation gives every indication of being on track to reach its 2 per cent target by April 2024.

The February figures also give weight to the assumption that the Bank of England will now be able to cut interest rates in the summer.

Getting ready to float

on March 20.

The private equity groups CVC and Pai Partners, Tendam’s owners since 2005, have also appointed Rothschild as the operation’s financial adviser.

During the first nine months of Tendam’s financial year, which finished in February 2024, the company reported a turnover of €884.3 million, 5.2 per cent more than the previous year. It now expects a gross profit of €310 million for 2022-2023.

Inventive Spain Colour it green Nice work

TWENTY-THREE Inditex executives earned €116.5 million between them in 2023, an 11 per cent increase on 2022 and a new record for the company.

This does not include Inditex chief executive Oscar Garcia Maceiras, but covers members of the boards of Zara, Pull & Bear, Massimo Dutti and Bershka, together with high-ranking employees responsible for Inditex’s Finance, Sustainability, Human Resources and Online departments.

As well as the executives’ salaries and bonuses, the €116.5 million included severance pay for those who left the company in 2023.

IBERDROLA, Spain’s biggest electricity company has accused Repsol, the country’s biggest oil company, of greenwashing.

Months of behind-the-scenes skirmishing were finally made public on March 18 when Iberdrola launched legal proceedings in Santander (Cantabria) where it is based.

Repsol’s advertising campaigns included “deception and misleading omissions” regarding the company’s environmental commitment, Iberdola said.

Repsol attempted to depict itself as an energy transition leader but was Spain’s “largest emitter of greenhouse gases”, a 107-page document submitted to the Santander court maintained.

This also pointed out that Repsol had already been sanctioned on two occasions by the UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) for making similar greenwashing claims in its British campaigns.

SPANISH designers and innovators presented a record 2,111 applications to patent their inventions in 2023.

According to figures released by the European Union, the European Patent Office (EPO) processed 199,275 patents in 2023, an average increase of 2.9 per cent on 2022.

Spain’s applications rose by 6.9 per cent, the EPO revealed, most coming from the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC).

Global technology company Amadeus filed 47 applications, followed by Multiverse Computing (24), Telefonica (17) and the Tecnalia Research & Innovation Foundation (17).

MIKE REGNIER, chief executive of Santander UK, said that Britain was an “unattractive” place for investment owing to its high taxes.

Talking to the Treasury Select Committee, Regnier explained to MPs that Britain’s tax rates were higher than those of many other countries which Santander UK had to contend with.

“Even in a really good year, the level of returns that we’re able to make in the UK aren’t as high as the shareholders of our parent company would expect,” he pointed out, in an oblique reference to Spain-based Santander.

Veiled warning Virgin doubts

NATIONWIDE is facing calls to consult its 16 million members regarding £2.9 billion (€3.7 billion) plans to take over Virgin Money.

On March 7, the building society announced a preliminary agreement to pay its rival’s shareholders 220p (€2.58) for each share, a 38 per cent premium on Virgin Money’s current price. The deal, if allowed to go ahead, would produce the UK’s second-largest savings and loans group with 700 branches and assets of £366.3 billion (€428.8 billion).

It would also mean taking on the Northern Rock mortgage business while providing Sir Richard Branson with an a £400 million (€468.3 million).

Lighten up

THE British American Tobacco (BAT) dismissed rumours that it could leave London to list in New York.

Tadeu Marroco, BAT’s chief executive, told the Financial Times that he doubted the benefits were as evident as some reports claimed.

“There is nothing to suggest that it’s a no-brainer to go to the US,” he said, insisting that BAT was committed to Britain despite legislation disclosed at the Conservative party’s 2023 conference.

This would eliminate smoking by increasing the legal age by one year from 2027 onwards.

Photo credit: CC/ZaratemanSuzuki

Photo credit: Simon Dawson/No 10

GOOD NEWS: Britain’s Prime Minister and Chancellor welcomed February inflation figures.

TENDAM: Cortefiel owners preparing an IPO

That’s rich

BENTLEY, now owned by Volkswagen, delivered 13,560 cars in 2023, making an operating profit of €589m with sales of €2.9bn that gave the luxury carmaker its bestever year after 2022, the company announced. “Our customers can still afford our cars,” Bentley’s chief executive Adrian Hallmark said, “even if some hesitated at first.”

Home truths

FIFTY-ONE per cent of Spanish employees whose work could be carried out remotely told an EADA Business School survey they preferred this to working in an office, and felt they were more productive. Fifty-seven per cent said they would change jobs if their company was not prepared to let them work from home.

Ice-cream spinoff

UNILEVER will de-merge its ice-cream division as part of plans to save approximately €800 million over the next three years.

The Anglo-Dutch whose brands include Marmite, Dove and Domestos bleach, also intends to dismiss 7,500 of the 128,000 people it employs worldwide, although staff will be consulted about the reductions beforehand.

Cutbacks will affect office staff at Unilever’s

WALL’S ICE-CREAM: Owned by Unilever.

London headquarters as well as employees in other countries, said chief execu-

Grape profits

SPANISH private equity firm, ProA Capital, has engaged Deutsche Bank to sell its holding in seedless grape production company, Moyca.

ProA paid €200 million for a 50 per cent stake in 2016, ahead of other funds like Alantra or MCH.

Moyca president Enrique Moya has a 15 per cent holding in the company, while founders, the Canovas family, own more

than 30 per cent.

In 2021, the last year for which official records are available, Moyca reported a €144 million turnover and net profits of €5 million.

After eight years, ProA calculates that Moyca, which finished 2023 with a gross profit of €25 million, should bring in approximately €400 million, double its original investment.

The company produces five of the world’s 10 best-selling ice-cream brands which include Wall’s, Magnum, Ben & Jerry’s and Carte d’Or as well as the popular US make Breyers.

Industry sources believe that a spinoff of Unilever’s ice cream division, whose annual revenues of €7.9 billion account for 16 per cent of the group’s sales, was the most likely result of Unilever’s future plans.

The demerger is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, insiders said. Schumacher avoided revealing where the subsequent ice-cream business, currently run from Rotterdam, would be listed.

All options were being considered, the chief executive said. “But this doesn’t mean that icecream will be a Dutch company or a UK company,” he added.

Next up

FASHION and home products retailer Next said that despite the Red Sea chaos, its prices were 2 per cent lower than in 2023 and it foresaw a 0.5 per cent deflation by the end of the first half of 2024. Shipping times had increased by up to 10 days but this was factored into prices, the company said.

Fizz fears

CAVA, Spain’s answer to Champagne, enjoyed a record year with 252 million Designation of Origin (DO) bottles sold worldwide in 2023 and €2.2 billion in sales that were 8 per cent up on 2022. Bodegas nevertheless warned that drought will take a toll, especially in Catalonia where grape production has fallen by almost 30 per cent since 2021.

tive Hein Schumacher who took over from Alan Jope in 2023.

Photo credit: CC/Chris Sampson

Spring is in the air

OTHERS THINK IT

DON’T be drawn into the misconception that the immigration foray may be letting up. Just because the biased British media has decided to ease up on its reporting; this year another 4,500 migrants have already traversed the channel to the UK’s ‘promised land’.

With the majority still appearing to be young fit men, does it not strike anyone that it is highly suspicious how they all manage to survive with no visible means of support? Many are wearing pricy designer gear and trainers, and just about all seem to carry expensive phones.

They also have to find the equivalent of £3,000-£5,000 to pay the people smugglers. Most, if not all, have travelled through a number of countries in their quest to reach soft touch Britain. How did they manage to even eat over the many months these treks lasted? They are all supposed to have originated in war torn impoverished countries, so where does all their mo-

ney come from? Someone somewhere is obviously bankrolling them. Are the women and children they’ve left behind being somehow supported? This of courses raises the obvious question as to why? Whatever the reasons, you can bet your lives it’s not from the kindness of anyone’s heart. There has to be an ulterior motive. Well I personally think someone is generating a sleeping army. There are now thousands of these fighting age Middle Eastern men entrenched all over the UK. If a non-friendly nation is paying the bills you can rest assured they will also have underground contacts creating arm caches and bomb factories everywhere.

Putting them up in hotels and lavishing them with benefits is actually verging on naïve lunacy. Don’t even bother to mention Rwanda! They should all be put into camps and intensely interrogated as to their origins, and specifically where their finances are coming from. You can rest assured that if it ever does become necessary for them to pay their particular piper; the UK could finish up looking like the aftermath of the Second World War.

The irony of that particular scenario is they will then have managed to turn the UK into something resembling the places they’re all supposedly trying to run away from! I also consider it highly suspicious, that of the thousands that have made successful crossings, one of the extremely rare sinkings usually turns out to be one that just happened to be a boat carrying women and children.

As I mentioned in a past column, if you want to throw the enemy off the scent, what better way to create a red herring than sacrificing a few female and children’s lives? Easily done; simply make their boat faulty, sit back, and when they all drown, watch the UK’s bleeding heart woke brigade give it maximum, sympathy provoking publicity. Far-fetched? I think not.

The Mid-Eastern masters of war have very little regard for human life - particularly when it suits their own evil ends. Ah well, spring and a possible election is in the air. Onwards and sideways. Never ends.

Keep the faith

Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

Jimmy Page replica guitar

THERE are a lot of very expensive ‘boy’s toys’ about at the moment, but one of the newest is a limited edition double neck Gibson guitar with a price of $49,999.

This is the same type of guitar that Jimmy Page played live with Led Zeppelin on such blockbuster numbers as Stairway to Heaven and The Song Remains

The Same and he has been personally engaged in this project as Gibson celebrates 130 years of involvement in the music business

This is officially entitled the Jimmy Page 1969 EDS-1275 Doubleneck Collector’s Edition from Gibson Custom, produced in a limited run of just 50 guitars and not only has Page been invol-

ved in development at all stages, but will have personally played each one.

But that’s not all, as it comes with a Certificate of Authenticity Book, a wooden Pick Display with Herco® Flex pick played by Jimmy Page on the specific serialised guitar, a Premium Cherry/Black Leather Strap and Vintage Replica Strap, Schaller Strap Locks, an Embroidered Dragon Guitar Shroud, and a Gibson Doubleneck Stand. For some lucky people this will be a dream come true, but for others, they’ll stick to their somewhat cheaper Air Guitars!

Leapy Lee’s opinions are his

Premier Removals:

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Marina Lorente Catasús

FOR over two decades, Premier Removals has been dedicated to assisting individuals with their relocations. Specialising in both domestic and international moves, they have facilitated countless transitions, turning dreams into reality. From within Spain to destinations such as the UK, Ireland, France, and Holland, they’ve helped families start anew.

However, with Brexit, the relocation landscape underwent significant changes. What was once a straightforward process became mired in complexities, particularly due to customs clearance procedures and taxes. Despite these challenges, Premier Removals navigated through, mastering the intricacies of paperwork to ensure seamless moves for their clients.

With fully insured storage facilities in the UK and Spain, equipped with 24hr surveillance, Premier Removals offers unparalleled peace of mind. Operating from their base in Spain, with their own

vehicles. They offer services including collection, delivery, and short or longterm storage solutions.

Whether it’s a local relocation or a move across borders, Premier Removals rise to the occasion, tackling any size of job with expertise and dedication. They also regularly feature enticing monthly promotions, such as free storage for European moves.

At the helm is Emma who has inherited the family business and who isn’t afraid to roll up her sleeves and pitch in alongside her team, who pride themselves on giving their clients 110 per cent.

Get in touch today if you would like a FREE no obligation quote.

To contact 966 190 643 - 634 191 061 info@premiermovesspain.com - www.premiermovesspain.com www.facebook.com/premiertopdivisionremovals

HELEN’S TRUCKS is a reliable business that has become an institution in the area. Helen’s Trucks’ main business is transporting customers’ personal and household goods. The spacious warehouse is situated between Crevillente and Catral.

Here is located the nest for operations where Helen and her team formed by Kevin, Barry and Trev, who has been in the business 22 years in May this year, spends her time helping people to move.

The company’s main business is transporting personal and household items from Spain to the UK and vice versa and are on hand to help with all the new paperwork with customs. They can also provide administration help thanks to Kevin who can also act as an agent if required, for all the TOR1 paperwork (Transfer of Residence ) back to the UK.

They also offer a wrap and pack service, If the thought of packing everything, seems a bit daunting. Helen’s Trucks also undertakes local removals wi-

HELEN’S TRUCKS, THE BEST TRANSPORT OPTION

thin the Costa Blanca and further afield. The team is willing to help and is available to arrange a personal visit too, to discuss all your removal needs. They have normal storage options relating to furniture. But they can accommodate your necessities offering you storage, from one cubic metre, to full households, for long and short term. They can now accommodate cars, trailers and caravans offering both internal and exter-

nal storage options. They offer their service without any problem even if your items come in with another removal company.

The warehouse is fully alarmed with Securitas Direct and insured with Mapfre and offers a new dimension to Helen’s Trucks, providing a safe place for your belongings.

Helen’s Trucks is a small family-run business dealing with removals and storage within Spain for the last 18 years. And

their success relies on the personal touch that represents the heart of their core values. On their website you can find valuable information for your move, including a section dedicated to tips on how to make your move calmly and peacefully. Or even another section dedicated to the efficient and correct packaging of your possessions. There is no doubt that Helen’s Trucks are attentive to every detail to make this crucial moment for you a

How to contact them: Partida Derramador 86b-Nave 1 Crevillente, 03330 Alicante, Spain Email : helenstrucks1@yahoo.co.uk • 965 400 616 or 667 815 081 • www.helenstrucks.com Follow them on Facebook and Instagram at helenstrucks

positive experience.

The years of experience, the care and attention to detail with which they carry out their work are worthy of the comments, reviews and recommendations of their clients.

There is no better company to handle your possessions than Helen’s Trucks, where your belongings will be looked after from the beginning and the respect for your necessities will be covered.

Helen helps people to move. HELEN’S TRUCKS: Dealing with removals and storage for 18 years.

WASPI Women compensation

FOLLOWING several years of investigation, the Parliamentary Ombudsman issued its findings on the way certain women were not properly advised on pension changes.

Effectively, it had previously found that those born in the UK between 1950 and 1960 discovered, often too late to do anything about it, that their rights to receive State Pension su-

pport had changed but now its March 21 document goes one step further.

It was known in advance that the British government wanted to increase the pension age for both men and women and to ensure that in the expectation of equality they should match each other. In essence however, the Ombudsman believes that the UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)

did not give adequate warning to those women who were likely to be affected, meaning that in many cases there were unable to take measures to allow them to take out private pensions to cover them.

Town delays time change

THE small town of Tobarra in Albacete, Spain, has decided to put long-held tradition before secular convention.

This unique municipality has decided not to adjust its clocks for daylight saving time on March 30, setting a precedent as the sole town in Spain to do so.

This decision, made by the local council, aims to honour a deeply entrenched Holy Week tradition. ‘The time change will not take place until after Easter Sunday (at 2.00am on Monday, April 1)’, the council explained.

This allows Tobarra to maintain its uninterrupted 104-hour drumming session, a cultural spectacle that begins on Holy Wednesday and concludes on Easter Sunday.

The DWP, whilst claiming that it has helped the enquiry at all times, doesn’t accept the findings which call for compensation of between £1,000 to £2,950 so the office of the Parliamentary Ombudsman is calling for the government to accept responsibility.

WASPI (the female pressure group) which claims that already more than a quarter of a million women have died without receiving compensation continues to campaign vociferously, being seen by many as the natural descendants of the Suffragettes.

This event, was acknowledged in 2016 as an Asset of Cultural Interest and since 2018 as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, underscores the town’s commitment to its historical customs.

The 104-hour drumming marathon, which commences from 4.00pm on Wednesday until Sunday 12.00pm, is not just a display of endurance. The spectacle is a pivotal part of the Holy Week celebrations, intertwining with significant processions that narrate the Passion of Christ.

This drumming vigil, is a testament to the community’s dedication to its faith and heritage. By delaying the switch to daylight saving time, Tobarra ensures that this centennial tradition remains unaltered, marking a rare deviation from national timekeeping norms.

The town has previously delayed daylight saving time in 2002, 2005, 2013, and 2016 in order to accommodate its marathon drumming event.

They have kept a very high profile and in an election year are reminding all parties that there are an estimated 3.5 million women who are affected and have the right to vote and they are lobbying Leader of the House of Commons, Penny Mordaunt to table this matter in the Commons for a debate and vote.

There are potentially billions of pounds involved if compensation is offered but equally 3.5 million votes could make a huge difference in the coming election.

WASPI women continue to campaign.

Credit: Councillor Julie Cambridge X

Meteorite squabble

Linda Hall

A METEORITE fell to earth on private property in Uppland province on Sweden’s east coast at 10pm on November 7, 2020.

But does it belong to the person who found it? Or the owner of the land where it fell to earth?

Geologists Anders Zetterqvist and Andreas Forsberg believed it was theirs, but the landowner Johan Benzelstierna von Engestrom claimed it was his.

Days after the meteorite fell over Sweden, Zetterqvist located the area where it hit the ground and after weeks of searching, another geologist, his friend Andreas Forsberg, found the 14-kilo lump of iron.

“It was the find of a lifetime,” Forsberg told the New York Times.

It was the 10th fresh-fall meteorite found in Sweden, and one of just a few iron meteorites found worldwide, the geologist said.

Fosberg and Zetterqvist took the meteorite to the Swedish Museum of Natural History in Stockholm, where it has remained since 2020.

“It was the first time I’d laid my hands on a newly-fallen meteorite after almost 40 years in geoscience,” Dr Dan Holtstam from the museum’s Geosciences department said.

Meanwhile, Johan Benzelstierna von Engestrom wrote to the museum, claiming that it was his.

The claim reached court and an initial ruling found

in favour of the geologists as the meteorite “was movable property without an owner.”

An appeals court has now reversed the decision, maintaining that the iron meteorite was composed of substances already present on the Earth’s surface.

“Meteorites or space rocks should be considered part of immovable property just like other stones,” Judge Robert Green stated.

Talking to the Swedish media, Benzelstierna von Engestrom, welcomed the ruling.

MUCH MORE THAN A CARD & GIFT SHOP

WITH LOVE decided to relocate its shop in Quesada. They have become a reliable shop for Quesada citizens. It was clear for them to open a shop in the popular area, and when the occasion came they got a fantastic location close to a supermarket, petrol station and close to the main town entrance, with plenty of parking.

This shop has a big offer of cards of all kinds and gifts like candles, partywear, jewellery, and other types of accessories. Since the beginning this family business wanted to help people in their daily lives, and that’s why they started to offer passport renewals, and it has become one of their star services. They can take the photo passport in the shop, but also to help people arrange and organise all the paperwork.

Also they offer a complete photograph restoration service for all

ADVERTISING FEATURE

kinds of damaged, torn and faded photographs. Another useful service is their canvas printing and they have recently expanded their partyware selection. Without a doubt, With Love has got their purpose: becoming a helpful point for the community of Quesada.

With Love has continued to expand since 10 years ago they opened a shop in Mazarron (Murcia), and also they took the chance to expand themselves online. In their online shop you can have a look closely at their services and products in an easy and fast approach.

Don’t hesitate to pop by the shop for any essentials or to treat your partner or friend with a cute and loving card!

Monday - Friday 9am-5pm • Saturday 10am-2pm

Avenida de las Naciones 1A Local 17, Ciudad Quesada, Rojales 03170, Alicante. +34 865 481 601

https://www.facebook.com/shopwithlove.es

https://www.instagram.com/shopwithlove.es

STOCKHOLM: Temporary home to iron meteorite that fell in November 2020.

Photo credit: CC/Gumisza

My words of wisdom

MIKE SENKER IN MY OPINION

VIEWS OF A GRUMPY OLD MAN

SINCE I haven’t moaned to you all for some time I’ve got a bit a backlog of things that get on my nerves and stuff that’s just not right. For instance, what’s all this nonsense about a cashless society? Who does it benefit? Only big brother governments, banks and people that want to control everything we do. Many will say it helps stop tax evasion. Well bitcoin has already got round that one apparently. And what tax evaders? The girl that washes your hair at the hairdressers? The waiter that serves you that you bung a couple of euros to? I’ve already been told by a couple of waiters that they aren’t allowed to add a tip to your bill if you are paying by card, too much admin for the owner. I’ve watched people pay 80c on a card to park. It must cost more than that to process payment.

But I’m also worried about the bigger picture. What if ‘they’ actually want to control how much you spend? For example, you go to buy a new pair of trainers, you present your card and up comes a message in the shop and on your phone - ‘You’ have

already purchased three pairs of trainers this month. This purchase exceeds your limit. Please try again in three months.’ Ridiculous? I don’t think so. Just think about how many times you are discussing some product and suddenly you get these products, or similar, appearing on your phone apps like Facebook or Instagram. Lots of people complain about things that happen on social media but forget one thing - we are not the customer, we are the product. We’re being sold and traded to massive corporations and there is nothing you can do about it unless you get rid of all your technology. Be warned - remember Mr Grumpy’s words of wisdom.

Anyone watch Martin Lewis? He’s a great consumer warrior. But it made me think how things have changed from when, in 2011, he was advising how to get 20 per cent discount on your duvet purchase to now how he’s desperately telling you how not to get evicted, manage to eat and heat your house at the same time. I fear for our kids.

Also, how come fat chance and slim chance mean the same thing? And why do all aerosols pack up when only half used and it doesn’t matter how hard you shake just a feeble dribble just comes out?

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

SECURE YOUR HOME FROM YOUR PHONE

PETE and Steve from englishtvinspain and safeandsimplealarms have both worked in Spain for over 20 years assisting all nationalities with receiving TV from their own country be it Nordic, Belgian, Dutch , German, French, Spanish and of course English, and many others. They can source almost anything you want television wise, talk to us, we are here to assist you. From the Alicante and Murcia regions, working from their base in Orihuela Costa.

Making sure your home and possessions are safe and secure can be a stressful and costly job,incurring monthly fees and often involving confusing technology that can be difficult to use. Here at Safe and Simple Alarms on the Costa Blanca, they offer peace of mind wherever you are, no monthly fees and solutions tailored exactly to your needs.

Their alarms are designed to safeguard your home effortlessly,

giving you and your loved ones roundthe-clock protection and security.

Customise your security system by incorporating interior or exterior cameras that not only record but also instantly notify you upon detecting any intruders, with rapid message forwarding within seconds of a breach, stay informed and in control.

Take your security a step further with additional door or window sensors, bolstering the defence of your property, as well as video doorbells or our external 100-decibel flashing siren to add an extra layer of security. Break glass detectors, Smoke Alarm, Carbon Monoxide/Smoke Alarms also available for total peace of mind. You and up to two others get a message instantly anything happens on your property.

Sponsored by

Tips for a radiant summer

AS the temperature rises, it’s time to adjust your beauty routine for the sunny days ahead. Start by protecting your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen to shield against harmful UV rays. Hydration is key, so opt for lightweight, oil free moisturisers to keep your skin supple wi thout feeling greasy.

Swap out heavy foundations for tin ted moisturisers or BB

creams for a natural, dewy look. Embrace vibrant hues with colourful eyeshadows and lip tints to complement the season. Don’t forget to pamper your feet with regular exfoliation and moisturising to keep them

make.up in place during hot summer days.

Lastly, remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and incorporating juicy fruits and veggies into your diet for a radiant summer glow.

Sweat smart

SWEATING excessively can be bothersome, but natural remedies can help manage it effectively. Begin by maintaining proper hygiene with daily showers and using anti bacterial soap to combat odor. Choose loose, breathable clothing, preferably made from cotton or linen, to allow air circulation and minimise sweat accumu lation.

Stay hydrated by drinking ample water throughout the day to regulate body temperature and flush out toxins. Incorporate stress-reducing practices like yoga or deep brea-

thing exercises into your routine, as stress can trigger sweat production.

Adjust your diet to include foods rich in magnesium and potassium, such as leafy greens, bananas, and nuts, which can help regulate sweating. Additionally, consider herbal remedies like sage tea, known for its natural antiperspirant properties. By implementing these simple yet effective strategies, you can naturally control sweating and enjoy greater comfort and confidence, even in the warmest weather.

Build muscle

THE 46-year-old established athlete, Linda Stjernsten, prompts Swedish women to build muscles.

Linda Stjernsten became Hedemora’s first woman in 45 years to compete in fitness at the local athletic club, becoming an inspiration to local women.

Linda began strength training as a teenager and spent 30 years preparing for her triumph on the sports stage,

Lucia Cup last year.

“I think it’s cool and stylish. We also want to show our muscles,” stated an aspiring young athlete, Emelie Hammarström about women’s position in fitness.

The main sports centre of Hedemora now has 20 per cent of women members and the 26-year-old Emelie is thrilled to work as a recruiter, empowering

gym,” she says.

A recent study by Martha Gulati from Cedars Sinai, Los Angeles, proved the benefits of strength training for women.

“Of the 400,000 people in the study, only one in five women did regular weight training.

And women who do muscle strengthening had a reduction in their cardiovascular mortality by 30 per cent,”

Eat your garden

A YOUNG entrepreneur, Allie Botold, encourages people to eat invasive plants: “There are a lot of natural treats here,” she shared when presenting her cookbook to the Press.

Invasive plants are non-native species which spread out of control and can cause environmental, economic and human harm, yet Allie Botold, from Sweden, argues that eating invasive plants can be absolutely safe: “How many know that several of the invasive plants are edible - and actually considered good?

In collaboration with five classmates

at Hitachigymnasiet in Västerås, Allie began selling her cookbook, which presents recipes based on invasive plants and has sold more than 100 copies so far: “We have found four invasive plants that can be eaten and have developed 20 recipes for them.”

The cookbook includes dishes made with parkslide, park lettuce, Canadian goldenrod, and ragwort, all of which are considered to be invasive plants.

These plants are difficult to control and can out-compete other species. Is adding them to the human diet a way to combat this issue?

Credit: Jill Burrow

AI detecting breast cancer

RESEARCHERS have discovered that using a tool known as Artificial Intelligent Assessment (MIA) raises the chance of detecting breast cancers that might otherwise be missed.

NHS Grampian in the

UK has been working with Kheiron Medical Technologies at the University of Aberdeen to evaluate the effectiveness of this tool.

Currently, mammograms are ‘double read’ by two readers from three professional groups: Ra-

diologists, Radiography Technicians and Breast clinicians, but a shortage of staff has led to a workforce crisis in radiology, with fewer qualified staff available and staff ‘burnout’.

Such staff pressure can also lead to longer waiting times for women, and the risk of unnecessary recalls and biopsies due to staff erring on the side of caution.

The study of 10,889 patients discovered that MIA helps to increase accuracy, lowering ‘false positives’, and mitigates staff shortages, so saving costs. It is estimated that MIA increases efficiency by automating up to 30 per cent of reading workflow.

The researchers argue that more than two million women are screened for breast cancer in the UK every year, but about 20 per cent of tumours are missed by mammogram screening.

A help or hindrance

HEALTH trackers have become obligatory in our quest for wellness, offering a myriad of benefits but not without their drawbacks. On the positive side, these devices provide real-time insights into our physical activity by counting our steps, monitoring our heart rate, and sleep patterns. They serve as motivational tools, encouraging users to set and achieve fitness goals. The ability to monitor progress fosters a sense of accountability, empowering individuals to make healthier lifestyle choices.

However, the reliance on health trackers has its downsides. Some users may become overly fixated on meeting daily targets, potentially leading to stress or an unhealthy obsession with numbers. Accuracy can also be a concern; not all devices provide precise measurements,

raising questions about the reliability of the data they generate.

Privacy issues loom large as well. Sharing intimate health data through these trackers raises questions about data security and potential misuse. Additionally, some individuals may find constant monitoring intrusive, impacting their mental well-being negatively.

In conclusion, health trackers offer valuable insights into personal well-being, motivating positive lifestyle changes. However, users should navigate these devices mindfully, addressing concerns such as accuracy, privacy, and the potential for obsessive behaviour. Striking a balance between leveraging the benefits and mitigating the drawbacks is crucial for harnessing the full potential of health trackers in our pursuit of a healthier life.

Credit: Shutterstock/ Andrey_Popov

Sleep better, live better

SLEEP disorders, particularly insomnia, represent a significant health concern globally. A staggering 62 per cent of adults worldwide express dissatisfaction with their sleep, highlighting a widespread issue.

In Spain, chronic insomnia affects over four million people, impacting their quality of life and increasing the risk of health complications such as hypertension, diabetes and obesity.

Adopting effective sleep practices is a natural, cost-free way to combat insomnia. These habits foster a conducive sleep environment, helping you drift off more easily.

• Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can significantly improve your sleep quality.

• Use your bed only

for sleep to strengthen the association between bed and sleep.

• If sleep eludes you after 30 minutes, try a low-energy activity like reading in another room.

• Avoiding daytime naps can help ensure you’re tired at bedtime.

• The WHO advises 150 to 300 minutes of aerobic activity per week for adults.

• Consistent pre-sleep rituals, such as brushing teeth or preparing next day’s clothes, can signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.

• A bath at body temperature can ease you into a state conducive to sleep.

• Cut out caffeine in the afternoon and eat your last meal at least two hours before bed.

• A cool, dark, and quiet bedroom environment supports better sleep.

• Reducing fluid intake in the evening can decrease night time awakenings.

• Avoid mobile and computer screens for at least two hours before bedtime.

• News Across The Regions •

Costa del Sol

The 20 happiest towns

RONDA is the ‘happiest’ town in Spain and four towns in Cadiz and Malaga Province are in the top positions.

Also making the top 20 is Benalmadena according to a study in which more than 1,000 inhabitants participated and voted for the happiest towns in Spain.

March 20 was the International Day of Happiness as proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013. And to mark the occasion, every year the international ranking of the happiest countries in the world is presented.

A study was carried out which set out to discover which are the happiest people in Spain. The study concludes that these towns have conditions that favour the well-being of their residents, including a warm and friendly atmosphere, a slow and calm pace, free of stress, the enjoyment of the outdoors, and local cuisine.

Axarquia Care crisis

THE Cudeca Foundation, renowned for its palliative care for cancer and advanced illness patients, faces increasing demand yearly. As the number of patients seeking their services rises, the foundation emphasises the crucial role of community support in sustaining its mission.

“Our patient count escalates each year, underscoring the significance of your collaboration to maintain our entirely free care for individuals nearing the end of life,” stated a spokesperson.

The foundation appeals to individuals to become members and contribute to their cause. Interested individuals can sign up at cudeca.org/hazte-socio or reach out via email at socios@cudeca.org or phone 692 257 053.

By extending a helping hand, supporters not only aid in providing essential care but also offer comfort and dignity to those in their final stages.

Mallorca

Calvia culinary delights

THE Calvià Destino Gastro conference on March 25 presented a new concept to promote Calvia as a culinary destination.

Mayor Juan Antonio Amengual explained that the aim of promoting Calvia as a fine dining destination is to extend the tourist season. Deputy mayor for Tourism, Eli Montserrat, wants the municipality to become a benchmark for culinary excellence.

The culinary show in April, known as La Mostra takes place twice a year, in April and October. Many of the 52 restaurants participating in the Mostra have been collaborating for many years. The Gastro Menu offered by some establishments is a tasting menu with a free format and price (from €50).

During the weekends of April, complete menus are being offered at reduced prices.

Costa Blanca North Save My Life

ON April 28, Save My Life, is holding an impressive day of live entertainment at Benidorm’s largest event venue, the Benidorm Palace.

After successful donations in the past, the charity returns to the Benidorm stage for the 11th edition of Save My Life.

The shows in the past marked the life-changing rehoming of the local cats and dogs into the homes not only of Costa Blanca’s residents but also visitors across Europe.

Last year, Save My Life raised more than €23,000, €8,000 of which were spent on Vet fees, €2,500 on food supplies, and a large amount donated to local animal charities.

Imagine Benidorm’s grand venue, filled to its 1,660-seat capacity, every ticket saving the life of an animal in need.

If you want to donate, PayPal savemylife charity@gmail.com.

Almeria

Coffee morning

COMMUNITY Choir All Aloud hosted a charity Coffee Morning in Oria on Saturday March 23 to support the Children’s Ward at La Immaculada Hospital in Huercal-Overa.

The event surpassed expectations, raising over €1,100, with more donations still coming in. Attendees enthusiastically participated in activities like lucky dips, raffles, browsing the New-to-you clothes rail, and trying their luck at winning bottles of gin. However, the real highlight was the cake and pastry stand, where treats sold out rapidly.

All Aloud chose to support the Children’s Ward after learning their yearly budget for activities was a mere €100 and the group’s Treasurer, Dr Jan Wilson, organised the Coffee Morning to kickstart fundraising efforts.

This successful event marks a fantastic start to the group’s fundraising endeavours for the year.

Costa Calida

Underwater wine

IMAGINE wines ageing not in traditional cellars but beneath the sea’s surface. In Aguilas, Murcia, Bodegas Verónica pioneers this unique process, maturing wines at a depth of 40 metres below the sea, where darkness and marine silence contribute to their transformation. Spearheaded by entrepreneur Pedro Martínez Cáceres, this venture requires extensive knowledge of both winemaking and marine environments.

Over a decade of experimentation has refined the process, with wines of various origins and varieties undergoing underwater ageing, resulting in a reduction of acidity, moderation of alcohol sensation, and enhanced tannin definition. Despite challenges like preventing seawater contamination and adapting to marine conditions, the venture has garnered success, attracting partners and expanding operations to Cartagena.

SPANISH NUMBER PLATES

has successfully registered over 3,500 vehicles in the past 12 years. The team handles the entire Spanish registration process of all types of foreign vehicles from start to finish right down to the installation of the number plates on your car. They will also process the paperwork for the transfer of ownership of Spanish registered vehicles when you buy or sell in Spain.

Run by Leigh Blann and located in the Vega Baja area their focal regions are Alicante and Murcia, although they do re-register vehicles across the entire Spanish Peninsular and the Balearics.

Customer satisfaction is paramount to Spanish Number Plates, which prides itself on delivering exceptional, rapid, and professional service. They are a One Stop Shop. Working with a team of legal experts, mechanics, engineers and insurance professionals, they manage the whole process for

Spanish Number Plates, putting you on the right side of the road

you from start to finish. Why re-register? If your inspection or road tax is due to expire or has expired, re-registration may be the most

viable option rather than re turning to the country of regis tration. If your vehicle remains in Spain for over six months, Spanish registration becomes

Megatrucks

THE European Parliament has taken the first steps to approve the introduction across the European Union of huge lorries known as gigaliners or megatrucks.

In the same way that we now accept (even if we can’t afford them) Superyachts, these megatrucks can measure up to 25 metres in length (roughly the size of a basketball or tennis court) and can weigh up to 60 tons.

Whilst some of these huge lorries are already on the roads of Finland, Germany, The Netherlands and Sweden they do

need good roads to operate on and in Spain, there are already ‘black spots’ where ordinary size lorries regularly tip over.

The argument in favour is that by increasing the size of lorries, it is possible to save fuel and carbon emissions but perhaps understandably both environmentalists and railway companies take a completely different view.

The EU seems to be putting out mixed messages as it has told Spain not to remove fees on toll roads as it wants to see more people using cleaner trains and even suggests

that internal flights of two hours or less should be banned.

At the same time however it wants to see these monsters on roads within the 27 member states without apparently taking into account the quality of roads and bridges and the potential for real congestion as well as the dangers involved in much greater braking distances.

The matter has to go before the European Council for final consideration and it is possible that Member States will have the right to refuse a right of passage across their roads.

nish-number-plates.com is simple and easy to use, just enter your name, email and phone number on their home page or fill out your vehicle details in the quote section and one of the team will get back to you, alternatively you can WhatsApp them on +34 671 608 503.

With a high percentage of referrals, Spanish Number Plates offers an exceptional service, backed by years of experience and high client satisfaction. Whether it’s cars, motorcycles, motorhomes,

Huge lorries.

Credit: Dan Boman /Scania Creative Commons

ABBA royalty

Claude Norris

ONE of the world’s most cherished bands, ABBA, has been given a special honour by the King of Sweden, Carl XVI Gustaf, for exceptional contributions to music and culture.

The members, Benny Andersson, Bjorn Ulvaeus, Agnetha Faltskog and Anni-Frid Reuss have all become the Commanders of First Class of the Order.

This marked a historic

achievement, as the King welcomed the musicians to the Order of Vasa; one of the most esteemed orders of chivalry in Sweden. This was the first time in half a century that new members have been included.

The candidates were nominated by the public, and the government and the King made an official approval statement.

King Carl XVI Gustaf has shown his value of the band in the past, as ABBA

performed for the marriage celebration of the King and Queen Silvia in 1976.

After 52 years of the band’s formation, ABBA’s songs continue to light up the lives of many with enchanting melodies and touching lyrics, elevating pop music to a royal level.

On May 31, an official ceremony to award the band will be held at the Royal Palace in Stockholm; a city where ABBA was born in 1972.

Waiting lists

THOUSANDS of residents in need of healthcare have been on lengthy waiting lists across the Netherlands; the number of patients needing medical assistance continues to rise.

In December 2024, approximately 5,300 Dutch residents were registered on waiting lists, and by March, the situation only declined, reported the Dutch Healthcare Authority.

Not only does the waiting time for treatment appear to rise, but the majority of general practitioners no longer register new patients, with mental healthcare specialists holding the patients on hold for more than four weeks at least.

THE Netherlands introduced ‘Amsterdam rules’ to reduce nuisance tourism with the use of specialised websites and campaigns.

The website, largely addressing visitors from England, Scotland and Ireland, holds quizzes which ask potential tourists about their plans in Amsterdam and targeting potential issues.

The city centre chief, Sofyan Mbarki, spoke about the campaign: “We are taking a different approach this time. Now we are focusing on the things some tourists associate with the city, associations which we want to demolish.”

INTERVIEW

The most critical cases occur in Heerenveen, Tilburg, Enschede, Leeuwarden, Apeldoorn, and Zwolle.

As the salaries and office costs hold fixed amounts across the country, the practitioners working in areas with higher living costs struggle the most. “This is a poor decision and is unfair to doctors,” argued the Association for General Practitioners in Amsterdam, Huisarten Coöperatie Amstelland.

The city council is now developing a plan of action by allocating the professionals to their own workplaces, according to what they can afford in each case.

Stay away

Videos in the ‘Stay Away’ campaign display the problematic situations which many tourists create when visiting Amsterdam.

“The site is now live for British nationals and will soon be published in Italian, Spanish and French. There will also be a website focused on Dutch tourists from outside the capital,” stated Sofyan Mbarki.

The city centre chief said: “We want a different image for our city.”

Loves the lifestyle

FROM an early age, Antti Pekkarinen visited the Costa del Sol from his home in Finland as his parents owned a property here.

IT was in 2005 that he finally decided that the lure of what is known as Finland’s southern-most town (Fuengirola) was just too much to ignore and he moved over and settled here.

His first really successful venture was a weekly Finnish language publication Fuengirola.fi which was a great success and is still going strong all these years later.

Antti and his wife love the Spanish lifestyle and the fact that unlike his homeland things move at their own pace, so that if something isn’t done today, it will happen but there might be a bit of a delay and “let’s not get stressed.”

make a point of returning to Finland for a month to enjoy the very short summer, that’s long enough and I don’t really miss anything except my family.”

He works hard and apart from the newspaper also runs a very popular restaurant Kukko Events at Avda de Los Boliches 4, Fuengirola which is open for breakfast and lunch Monday to Friday and then in the evening with entertainment seven nights a week.

“One of the reasons that I moved here was for that lifestyle which is helped so much by the climate and although I

When asked whether he had any advice for fellow countrymen thinking of moving to Spain, he said “it is different for everyone depending on age, whether they have families, want to set up a business or are retiring, but my one recommendation is simply come over and enjoy it!”

Antti Pekkarinen your host at Kukko Events.

CHERISHED BAND: ABBA in 1974.

Credit: ABBA, Facebook

Magic of baby talk

ENGAGING in baby talk with your furry companions is more than just a heartwarming gesture, it’s a powerful tool for building a stronger connection. Speaking to your pet in a higher-pitched, softer tone, often associated with baby talk, has been shown to soothe and comfort animals. This gentle approach communicates affection and reassurance, fostering a sense of security for your pet.

conveys warmth and love, establishing a positive association with interaction. Not only does this benefit your pet’s emotional well-being, but it also contributes to your own sense of joy and companionship. So, go ahead and indulge in those sweet, silly conversations with your pet.

Furthermore, baby talk can enhance the human-animal bond by creating a unique form of communication. It

The magic of baby talk is a delightful language that transcends species, creating a harmonious and loving connection between you and your cherished companion.

Do you have dogs who love company? Find dog-sitters

FINDING dog-sitters through Hou sesit Match gives peace of mind

Benji and Jonty’s owner travels quite a bit. And she can’t always find sitters nearby. So she places an advert on HouseSitMatch and the checked house-sitters apply through the site. The house-sitting is undertaken as a fair exchange for both parties. No money changes hands the dogs are cared for by pet lovers, in the dogs’ own home.

It’s a fair exchange

All our sitters offer a fair exchange - free accommodation for free pet care and an online review. It’s a win win!

If you’re planning a trip for the holidays, don’t delay. Register today as a member of our network to find affordable home and pet care.

Plan ahead to secure great sitters

However long your trip pets need someone with them at home. Young and senior pets in particular benefit from routines undisturbed.

Benji and Jonty tend to stay at home when their owner travel. She finds dog-sitters for them.

Plan ahead of time to find house and pet-sitters who will come to you for free!

Next steps to join Choose Housesitmatch.com for affordable travel, home and pet care. These are the steps to take:

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 helps you find sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert with trip dates. House-sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter you want.

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.9 / 5

Excellent

10 out of 10 for housesitmatch. com

I have had nothing but good and helpful service from the people who run this site, and my experience has been excellent. Tristram Cosgrave – Dog and cat owner, Malaga READER OFFER

Register online via www.House sitmatch.com.

House-sitting is a win-win for both parties, free house and pet-sitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation! Register as either house-sitter or homeowner with a 20% discount code 20EWN.

UK’s illegal pet trade Playing around

A PLAYFUL chase with your furry friend might just be the secret to longevity, suggests a recent study. This research indicates that incorporating short bursts of activity into your daily routine, such as a spirited game of fetch or a romp around the garden with your dog, could be linked to a lower risk of death.

These findings are a breath of fresh air for those who struggle to fit lengthy gym sessions into their schedules. The study posits that these mini workouts, however informal, count towards the recommended 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.

Engaging in these spontaneous acts of movement not only strengthens the bond with your canine companion but also provides cardiovascular benefits, akin to more structured forms of exercise.

The implications are significant: every sprint and frolic with your dog contributes to your body’s overall health. Such activities can enhance heart health, improve agility, and elevate mood, combining the joy of pet ownership with practical health advantages.

In a world where sedentary lifestyles are common, this study provides a compelling argument for embracing the joyous chaos of playing with a pet. It’s a delightful and accessible approach to health that emphasises the fun in functional fitness, with man’s best friend as the perfect workout partner.

THE UK government has announced its support for a significant step in combating the illegal smuggling of cats and dogs.

On Friday, March 15, a pivotal advancement was made with the introduction of the Animal Welfare (Import of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Bill.

Spearheaded by Selaine Saxby, this bill aims to plug the gaps that dishonest breeders and dealers use to unlawfully bring pets into the UK.

The UK is a pioneer in animal welfare, being the first country in the world to outlaw cruelty towards animals, and according to World Animal Protection’s Index is the highest-ranked G7 nation.

This new bill is a testament to the nation’s ongoing commitment. Each year, the UK sees a large number of pets entering the country, with 320,000 under the

Pet Travel Scheme and 44,000 as commercial imports in 2023.

The legislation seeks to amend the Pet Travel Scheme, limiting the number of animals per vehicle to five and three per pedestrian or air traveller. It ensures that pet movements coincide with the owner’s travel within a five-day window. This measure is designed to prevent the fraudulent import of animals under the guise of pet ownership.

Under the bill, future regulations will increase the minimum age for importing puppies and kittens to six months.

This change aims to spare young animals from stressful journeys that could affect their development and behaviour.Moreover, the bill will prohibit the import of pregnant pets and those subjected to cruel alterations like ear cropping or declawing.

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

BUILDERS

BALUSTRADES

BOILERS

ARTIFICIAL GRASS

BLINDS

CONSTRUCTION

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

DRAINS

ENERGY

ELECTRICIAN

GRILLS

GLASS CURTAINS

LOCKSMITHS PAINTERS/DECORATORS

POOL MAINTENANCE POOLS

WINDOWS

CLASSIFIEDS

ARCHITECT

BUILDING SERVICES

J & J PAINTERS. Insideoutside - clean - fast - low cost. Torrevieja - Orihuela Costa and surrounding areas. Tel: 650 363 159 (1296232)

BUY & SELL

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

OVER 400 DVD’s for sale. As new. €300 ONO. 0044 7971 459588 (WhatsApp) (305596)

CARE HOME

PRIVATE CARE HOME Full Board and Care. Also, Dementia care. British Owned near Alicante. Luxurious Villa. €1,200 per month. Call 747 438 225 (305146)

CHARITY

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS IS ALCOHOL COSTING YOU MORE THAN MONEY? Drinking to excess not only affects your health it can spill over into every other aspect of your life - damaging everything that is important to you. English-speaking AA meetings are held throughout the Costa Blanca from Valencia City to Murcia. Anyone wishing to attend a meeting or discuss a possible drinking problem contact Costa Blanca North:

648 169 045 or Costa Blanca

South: 625 912 078 or Costa Calida 679 385 105 All calls are treated in the strictest confidence. AA in German: 645 456 075; Spanish: 679 212 535; Flemish: 635 047 053; and Scandinavian: 659 779 222. www.aa-costablanca.org (93323)

CAMPELLO CONTRA

CANCER in conjunction with AECC Association Español Contra Cancer. Please support your local Cancer charity and if you wish to obtain literature or simply talk to someone. Please contact Mina or Trisha. Tel 650 071 278 or 610 921 413 e-mail aecc_campello@ hotmail.com (95475)

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MABS) MURCIA/MAR MENOR

Help and support is just a phone call away, Avda Rio Nalón, Tel: 693 275 779 (95462)

CHURCH SERVICE IN ENGLISH Tel: 950 617 549 www.givinglight.com.(10006)

FREEMASONRY Are you aware that Freemasonry is thriving on the Costa Blanca? There are various Lodges meeting up throughout the Valencia region. If you already are a Mason or simply wish to know more about Freemasonry in Spain please contact  sec@ glpvalencia.com Tel 600 841 064 (95477)

HELP VEGA BAJA. We are a non-profit making organisation that helps and supports anyone, without prejudice, in times of need or crisis within the Vega Baja area. Our offices are based in San Miguel at Calle Lope de Vega 46 (Tel 966 723 733), Torrevieja at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia 4 (Tel 965 704 282). We are online at www. helpvegabaja.com and also on Facebook. You can email the San Miguel Centre at office@ helpvegabaja.com. We also have a 24-hour Emergency helpline which is available to both members and non-members on 966 723 733 (95456)

INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY, TORREVIEJA

Calle Beniajan 16, Torrevieja

03185, Alicante Evangelical non-denominational church.

Sunday morning Services at 11.00am. All nationalities welcome - Contact 966 752 543 / 966 799 273. For other church matters phone: 966 799 273 / /617 215 463 www. icatorrevieja.org (95476)

LA SIESTA EVANGELICAL CHURCH on Urbanisation La Siesta, Torrevieja is a friendly, English-speaking church. For more information, including details of our services, see our website www.lasiestaevangeli calchurch.org (10005)

PHILIP SCOTT LODGE No 10671 of the RAOB. Please call the secretary, Colin Bird on 693 287 614 for further information. (95459)

PILAR CHRISTIAN COMMU NITY CHURCH. All welcome from any church background or none. For further information, www.pilarchurch.org Reg No: 2009-SG/A (95463)

ROYAL Air Force Association

Costa Blanca Registered Members Group:  The RAFA Costa Blanca RMG replaces the RAFA Costa Blanca Branch 1359 which is now closed. The RMG is a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Association. Contact with the Royal Air Force Association and the RMG can be made via the RAFA website  rafa.org. uk Tel:0044 800 018 2361. (238593)

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION

- Why not make this year the year you volunteer? See how you can help either as a caseworker (with full training) or as a Telephone Buddy. We also visit beneficiaries who are housebound or in hospital. If you feel you could support us here in Spain, and you have a Spanish phone number then why not email us for more info tbuddyhhvisits@gmail. com. If you or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us using the details on the card, we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control. It can be a personal

need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly, just call and have a chat with Pam who will try to guide you to where you need to be. If you would like to go to a branch meeting then find your nearest one at, http:// branches.britishlegion.org. uk/branches/orihuela-costa - covering from Punta Prima to San Javier. More info can be found on branch website www.orihuelacostarbl.co.uk. (95457)

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Gran Alacant & La Marina Branch. For info, contact the branch Secretary at granalacant. secretary@rbl.community

ROYAL MARINES ASSOCIA

TION (Costa Blanca) The aim of the Association is to bring together not just ex Royal Marines, but ex Service personnel with an affinity to the Royal Marines. For further details contact Hon Sec P S Wilkins Tel: 966 194 158 email: inkinspain@yahoo. co.uk (10004)

ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION

For information please contact Chairman Anthony Jenkins +34 693 866 709, Vice Chairman Dusty Miller +34 711 006 670, Secretary Mike Cockman +34 670 224 822, Treasurer Carl Louden +34 678 518 202, email rnatorrevieja@aol. com (95455)

STROKE  ASSOCIATION Spain (formally known as Torrevieja stroke support) Our aim is to help and support stroke survivors and their carers, with rehabilitation, speech therapy, OC therapy and a very active social group. For info please contact 653 588 475 English and 620 907 474 Spanish or email  strokesu pportgroup@hotmail.com , website: torreviejastrokesupport.org. We are always looking for volunteers who have the skills and knowledge to support. (95473)

THE ANGLICAN CHURCH, La Fustera. For more info: contact Frank Bentley on 966 495 188. (95461)

THE BAKER Foundation

Spiritual Centre Playa Flamenca. Calle Luis Gordillo, 1 Playa Flamenca Alicante 03189. You can join us on Facebook, The Baker Foundation spiritual centre. Or contact Linda Schug Tel. 606 990 665 for more details (95458)

THE PATIENCE LODGE No

2177 of the R.A.O.B Please call Secretary Dave Tonge on 688 704 091 for further information. (253807)

THE SPIRITUALIST CENTRE, Benijofar meets at Hamilton’s Bake House, 62 Calle Vicente, Blasco Ibañez, Benijofar 03178.  We hold a Sunday Sevrice at 11.30am. For further information: www.spiritu alistcentre-benijofar.com Telephone 711 060 171. Email martindroute66@ hotmail.com . Fiscal G54713789

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

We are a non-profit organisation that supports people and their families with neurological diseases such as; HUNTINGTON’S, ATAXIA, MOTOR NEURONE, MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS and PARKINSON’S. Our MOVERS AND SHAKERS CLUB held every Friday @ 1pm – 3pm, is a chance for members to meet up socially, for a drink and a chat on a full range of topics and to exchange ideas and information. The club is held at O’Briens Bar in El Raso, Guardamar del Segura (except July and August). For more details, contact Marion Smith on 711 008 250, or email: marion.smith@amscb. org.es, or you can find us on Facebook : fb@movers and shakers www.amscb.org. es (295976)

ELECTRICIAN

MR FIXIT. For all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance & boiler repairs. No call out charge. 698 320 434 (294487)

FOR SALE/WANTED

WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Call telephone: 678 716 693 (288662)

GOLD WANTED

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

PERSONAL TRAINER, WEIGHT LOSS, TONING, RESULTS GUARANTEED. CERTIFIED WITH 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE. FORMER US KICKBOX CHAMPION. CALL 747 438 225 (301319)

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

BATHROOM & KITCHEN Conversions Costa Blanca, contact 698 320 434.

INSURANCE

FED UP OF NOT BEING

SENT YOUR RENEWAL?

CUT YOUR INSURANCE COSTS AND STILL HAVE 100% COVER. YOU HAVE TRIED THE REST NOW TRY THE BEST WITH SOS INSURANCE. WE CAN EVEN INSURE YOU FOR UP TO A €1,000 OF WATERLOSS. CALL 686 116 297 (WHATSAPP TO) OR VISIT www.sosinsur anceinspain.com or email tracey@sosinsurancein spain.com (305189)

BENEFICIAL INSURANCE

SERVICES. Car, Home, Business, Travel, Life, Funeral, all insurances available. Policies in English. BEST rates, covers & service. Immediate quotes. Tel 961 129 215 / 622 275 561, (WhatsApp) info@ beneficialinsuranceinspain. com or visit www.beneficialin suranceinspain.com for online quote. (303245)

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

MASSAGE

FRENCH, ELÉGANTE, slim, Sophie, 3 languages spoken. Experienced in a large variety of full body massages. Villamartin apartment or can travel to all areas. 693 357 526

EXPERIENCE the best with a 1hr unique massage with Veronica. Shaving or permanent hair removal available. For appointments call 679 292 678 (303934)

MAGIC TOUCH, French, speaks 3 languages, professional masseuse, tantric. Apartment in Villamartin and home visits. Tel 693 357 526

CLASSIC MATURE

SPANISH LADY, Playa Flamenca area, private premises, all massage services from 50€. Ana 657 603 495

TORREVIEJA centre 5 Spanish and Colombian girlfriends, transvestites, very affectionate and dominant masseuses 24 hours a day Call outs . 613 664 558 (304917)

SLIM captivating lady, 46, offering a pleasant massage. Mil Palmeras. OUTCALLS ONLY. Contact leilapuss@ yahoo.co.uk (303976)

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)

MOTORHOMES

MOTORHOME / Campervan wanted. Left or right hand drive. Cash waiting for right van. Tlf 650 722 905

MUSIC

FOR SALE 2 brand new Grundig Hi-Fi speakers 50watt, 26 x 18cm. €25. 699 321 591 (304542)

MUSIC TUITION

PIANO, Keyboard, Organ, Qualified Teacher. Please call 606 984 535 (303913)

OTHERS

KAMAGRA Gold 100mg plus Kamagra Jellies. Collection or Delivery Roy- 613 584 915 (295447) tp

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

PERGOLAS

TAILOR-MADE in durable canvas, made to measure

pergola covers, cushions, sails, umbrella, spa and CAR COVERS. Mazarron based, and reaching Almeria to Costa Blanca, plus mail order.  Google: KrugerCanopies.com WhatsApp: 667 879 399  krugercanopies@ yahoo.co.uk (301485)

PET CHARITY

EASYHORSE CARE RESCUE CENTRE. We aim to rescue HORSES. If you would like to DONATE please call 965 967 033 or sales@easyhorsecare. net www.easyhorsecare.net or call Sue 652 021 980 (95706)

GATAMI ORGANISATION, to help kittens and cats, looking for good homes, also spaying wild cats in the community. Kittens require adoption, fully vaccinated, de-wormed, de-flead. volunteers to Tel Anna: 966 806 976 / 654 729 977 (95709)

P.E.P.A. VOLUNTEERS & FOSTER HOMES URGENTLY NEEDED. By fostering an abandoned dog or spending a few hours each week on our telephone helpline, you could help save the lives of many animals. Please call: 650 304 746. For more information browse our website: www. pepaspain.com (95708)

SPAMA GANDIA SHELTER. Dog and cat rescue registered charity, La Safor area. 500 animals awaiting rehoming. Phone Gail 962 896 118. Visit our website for directions. www.spama.org and view our new blog at www.spama-safor. blog.com.es PLEASE HELP US TO HELP THEM (95707)

PLUMBERS

MR FIXIT. For all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance & boiler repairs. No call out charge. 698 320 434 (294487)

POOL MAINTENANCE

POOL MAINTENANCE Repairs, Spares and Leak Testing. Call 865 758 056 / 676 945 360 www.pooltechspain.com (294206)

SPAS AND JACUZZIS

IS it surprising that in this day and age, some still neglect the basic safety requirement of wearing a seat belt?

Until Sunday, March 17, Spain’s Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) ran a significant initiative aimed at enhancing seat belt usage across all road types, using a variety of monitoring tools.

This move sought to

Refusing to belt up

ensure that every vehicle occupant, front or back, adult or child, adhered to this crucial safety practice.

Last year, the stark reality was that 139 individuals lost their lives in Spain due to not wearing seat belts at the time of

their accidents, provoking an urgent wake-up call.

This accounted for 25 per cent of all road fatalities. The DGT’s recent campaign, leveraging the Guardia Civil, regional, and Local Police forces, highlights an intensified

Guardia Civil’s flag signals

FROM time to time, drivers in Spain may encounter a Guardia Civil traffic officer signalling with coloured flags.

Although the practice is quite rare, it is still one of the methods used by authorities charged with exercising traffic regulations.

Although it may seem obvious it is important that drivers are aware of this method, as understanding the instruction behind each flag colour is crucial to safe driving.

Grasping the meaning behind the colours - green, red, and yellow - is essential. Not heeding these signs might not only endanger lives but could also result in fines of up to €200 and the loss of up to four points on your driving licence, as ignoring them is considered a serious

offence.

The yellow flag, similar to amber in traffic lights, advises extreme caution. It suggests while it is permissible to continue, there could be potential hazards ahead so drivers should proceed carefully.

A green flag signals that traffic can proceed. This is usually after an incident has been cleared, allowing drivers to continue on their journey.

When a red flag is displayed, it means access is barred and drivers are required to bring their vehicle to a halt. This could be due to an ongoing incident, such as an accident or a breakdown.

By adhering to these signals, drivers can avoid not only legal penalties but also protect their lives and those of others.

patrol across different types of roads.

Aerial surveillance via helicopters and drones, complemented by 245 cameras on various roads, underscores the comprehensive nature of the campaign.

The regulations are particularly stringent for younger passengers.

Children measuring 135 cm (approximately 4’5”) or less are required to use child restraint systems, though it’s advised to continue their use until they reach 150 cm (approximately 4’11”).

Research conducted by the National Road Safety Observatory has revealed that men are less likely to wear seat belts compared to women.

Additionally, it was found that age and seating position influence usage rates, with older individuals and those seated in the front more inclined to buckle up.

Suzuki Swift SZ-T – hatchback impresses

By Mark Slack ROAD

TEST

SUZUKI’S Swift has always offered value for money and although the company has undoubtedly moved more upmarket the Swift continues to be an integral part of their range.

Priced from €20,041/£17,199, all Swift models are generously equipped with even the lead-in model benefitting from adaptive cruise control, rear parking camera, Car Play and Android Auto, auto lights, powered and heated door mirrors, privacy glass, tyre pressure monitoring and air conditioning.

All models come with mild hybrid assistance and a straightforward line-up sees three models in the standard Swift range with the entry level car having a manual five-speed gearbox and the other two a CVT automatic transmission. Just one engine, a 1.2-litre, 16-valve, four-cylinder petrol unit is utilised across the range.

My SZ-T middle of the range model adds additional equipment including high beam assist, rear parking sensors and a CVT automatic gearbox. I’m no fan of CVT boxes (not just Suzuki) because when you accelerate the engine revolutions remain high while the car

gathers speed. There’s not the immediacy of throttle control, it’s not a fault it’s just how CVT gearboxes work. If

CVT gearbox apart the Swift is a delight to drive with a peppy engine, despite its on-paper less than quick

Performance: 0-100 kmh (62 mph) 12.2 seconds/Maximum Speed 175 kmh (109 mph).

Economy: 5.1l/100km (55.3 mpg) Combined driving.

Emissions: 115 g/km

Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets

at its best in towns and on cross country drives. The ride comfort is as fine as one might expect with our awful roads, although others do perform better in that regard all be they quite a

the decent

Suzuki has resisted the march of oversized cars so the Swift is neatly compact yet offers decent interior space even for rear seat passengers. The interior is where you can see costs have been carefully managed with a lot of hard plastics on display. That said it all feels very well bolted together and is a pleasant place in which to travel.

All told the Swift is an enduringly likeable car that’s fun to drive, economical to run and feels like it will more than last the course of every day car ownership. Suzuki’s seeming policy of evolution rather than revolution with its design and character helps in that regard.

Personally the lead-in SZ-L model represents the best value and, crucially, with that manual gearbox proves to be the most fun.

Female Olympian retires

LAURA KENNY, the United Kingdom’s most accomplished female Olympian, has announced her retirement from competitive cycling.

At 31 years old, with five Olympic gold medals under her belt, she decided not to go ahead with the Paris Games this summer. She shared her thoughts with the BBC, marking the end of an era.

“I always knew deep down I would know when was the right time. I have had an absolute blast but now is the time for me to hang that bike up,” Kenny said, now that prioritising family time has become her main focus.

This decision comes after a celebrated journey in the sport, alongside her husband, Jason Kenny (seven Olympic golds), who holds the title of Britain’s most decorated Olympian.

Laura’s illustrious career includes victories in team pursuit and omnium gold at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, plus a madison gold in

2020.

With a haul that also features seven world championships and 14 European championships titles, her decision reflects a desire for new beginnings rather than a lack of achievements.

“Going on to win another gold medal, as much as I would love to do that, it wasn’t giving me the energy I wanted anymore,” she reflected on her decision.

Laura took the time to post a brief message on Instagram: ‘Thank you cycling for everything you’ve given meincluding a husband and our growing family!

‘Having people say I have inspired women and girls to get active and get on a bike means the world to me. Thanks to Team GB, British Cycling and all the partners who have supported my journey.

Looking ahead, although she rules out coaching due to the pressure, she is eager to support young talent in other ways.

F1 – A night-time spectacle?

THE Spanish capital, Madrid, is poised to make a grand entrance into the F1 scene in 2026 with the possibility of an innovative night race in the Ifema Valdebebas zone, drawing inspiration from the resplendent Arabian nights of Jeddah.

In January this year, representatives from Spain’s forthcoming Grand Prix visited Jeddah to observe the Saudi Arabia GP, which this year marked its fourth edition.

Their goal was to gather insights into hosting a night race, scrutinising not only the spectator and VIP accommodations, but also the logistical complexities of setting up a paddock for potentially more than 20 teams, including F2 and F3 contenders.

Organising such an event is no small feat, with considerations ranging from electrical installations to catering services for the numerous workers expected in 2026.

Madrid’s ambitious plan, heralded with the promise that ‘Madrid will be the best F1 experience in the world,’ aims to

blend a unique track design by Dromo with the allure of a night race, potentially a first in a major European city outside of the traditional Monaco Grand Prix.

The concept of night racing adds an extraordinary layer of spectacle, with plans for emergency lighting and generators stretching over 5.5 km.

After witnessing Jeddah’s dazzling setup, Madrid is seriously contemplating embracing this nocturnal approach, which could distinguish its race as an unmatched visual and sporting event on the F1

calendar.

While the event’s promoters are yet to be disclosed, speculation hints at a collaboration between Ifema, the Madrid Chamber of Commerce, Liberty Media F1, and possibly international entities like Mexico’s Ocesa.

Madrid’s return to the Formula 1 roster after 45 years promises not just a race but a spectacle, blending tradition with modernity.

As preparations continue, all eyes are on Madrid to deliver an unforgettable race night in 2026.

Credit: SaudiArabianGP/X

Ariel view of the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix.