Costa Calida 6 – 12 June 2024 Issue 2031

Catherine McGeer

THE Day of the Region of Murcia, celebrated on June 9, is a significant occasion that honours the rich history, culture, and autonomy of the Murcia region. This date commemorates the establishment of the Statute of Autonomy of the Region of Murcia in 1982, marking its recognition as an autonomous community within Spain.

Festivities on this day are vibrant and varied, reflecting the region’s unique identity. Parades, traditional music and dance performances, and cultural exhibitions fill the streets, showcasing Murcia’s heritage and pride.

Local cuisine, including specialties like Caldero (a fish and rice dish) and Pastel de Carne (meat

Day of Murcia Cartagena quakes

ACCORDING to the National Geographic Institute, Cartagena experienced two earthquakes in the early morning of May 31. The first quake, with a magnitude of 2.2, struck at 2.50am, in the Cartagena district of La Palma at a depth of two kilometres. Less than two hours later, a second earthquake occurred north of Cartagena, this one measuring 1.6 in magnitude. Despite their relatively low magnitudes, these tremors were noticeable.

Residents reported feeling the quakes, but no significant damage or injuries have been reported. The events serve as a reminder of the area’s seismic activity in the Region of Murcia.

pie), is enjoyed by both residents and visitors, adding flavour to the celebrations.

In addition to public festivities, official ceremonies are held, where regional leaders reflect

on Murcia’s achievements and future aspirations.

The Day of the Region of Murcia not only promotes a sense of community and regional pride but also serves as a reminder of the region’s journey

towards greater self-governance and its contributions to the broader Spanish society. This year as it falls on a Sunday it is not classed as an official bank holiday and does not carry over to Monday.

Green Fingers

GREEN Fingers Camposol, a group of committed volunteers, dedicate their free time to maintaining the area. From weeding and rubbish collection to nurturing communal spaces, they ensure Camposol flourishes. At their annual fundraising street party, attendees soaked up the Murcian sun and enjoyed Carl Thomas’s tunes. The atmosphere was delightful, and the event was a success, raising over €500 for future projects. A warm thank you extends to all who participated and contributed to the pleasant afternoon. This gathering not only formed community bonds, but also highlighted the invaluable efforts of Green Fingers Camposol in preserving the beauty of the area.

Costa Calida • Issue No. 2031 •6 - 12 June 2024

Image: IGN

Cartagena hit by two minor quakes.

Image: Green Fingers Camposol

Image:

Celebrating Murcia.

Heartfelt heroes

Transforming lives, one paw at a time.

Catherine McGeer

IN the heart of San Javier lies an oasis for abandoned animals Casa del Sol run by the organisation PAPS. Their mission: is to rescue, nurture, and nd homes for stray dogs and cats in San Javier and surrounding areas. PAPS doesn’t just o er shelter; it provides comprehensive medical care, ensuring each animal receives the attention they deserve.

Collaborating with like-minded groups, PAPS advocates for responsible adoption practices, aiming

to curb the alarming rates of animal abandonment in the region. Their dedication extends beyond rescue e orts; they actively work to promote a community that values and cares for its four-legged members.

Supporting PAPS comes in various forms. You can donate or become a member, contributing to veterinary expenses, food, and supplies. Adoption is another meaningful way to make a di erence, o ering a loving home to a deserving pet. Simply spreading the word can help raise aware-

ness and attract more support from the community.

But perhaps the most impactful contribution is volunteering your time and skills. PAPS welcomes volunteers to assist with animal care, maintenance, and other essential tasks. Their recent Country Line Dancing Fundraiser exempli ed the community’s dedication, raising €278.59 to support their cause.

With every act of kindness, PAPS can continue its vital work, providing comfort and care to animals in need.

Rescue rally

HUGOS’s Home Farm, established as a rescue centre by Helping Coco Horse Rescue, a registered charity in Spain, is calling for support. A small donation of just £1 can make a big difference. The idea is simple: thousands of people each contributing a little will collectively have a huge impact.

To expand and improve the facilities, the farm needs a stable block and food storage installed. This is essential to secure the REGA licence, which will allow them to rescue and care for nine more horses, increasing their capacity to 18.

Donations via PayPal, preferably sent as ‘family and friends’ to avoid fees, will go directly to the charity account, ensuring every cent is used for the cause. The PayPal link is ht

tps://www.paypal.me/helpingcoco

Every small contribution helps, and only donate if you can afford to. They have shared a message of thanks to the hundreds who have already supported them; your help is what makes this possible.

For more information about Hugos Home Farm see hugoshomefarm. com or call 633 819 499.

Donate to Hugo’s Home Farm today.

High-speed

SPAIN’S rail travel sees an increase with foreigners booking half of the tickets to top destinations. High-speed ticket sales doubled for the second year, making Spain Europe’s fastest-growing market.

Samaritans

FROM June 1 the Samaritans in Spain have extended its hours. The Freephone number 900 525 100 service will now be available until midnight every day. This extension is for the next three months, but they hope to make it permanent.

Noah’s Arc

NOAH’S ARC animal rescue charity has fab new t-shirts for dog walking. With the message ‘This Dog is for Adoption’ emblazoned on the back they hope to highlight the gorgeous dogs they have up for adoption. So keep an eye out for them around Mazarron.

Ibizan market

THE Al Kasar Shopping Centre Condado de Alhama is holding an Ibizan Market from Friday, June 21 from 6 pm until Sunday, June 23. There will also be face painting, a water party, a foam party, and live music.

Discover Águilas

ÁGUILAS is located on the coastal stretch of the Bay of Mazarron and is a vibrant area within the Region of Murcia. With a population of approximately 36,862 residents, Águilas is renowned for its stunning 28 kilometres of Mediterranean coastline, attracting both local and international visitors. It’s beaches are often recognised as some of the best in Spain.

Águilas is uniquely surrounded by protective mountain ranges, including the Sierra de la Carrasquilla and the Sierra de la Almenara, recognised for their ecological signi cance. Notably, the Sierra de la Almenara has been designated as a Site of Community Importance (SCI) and Special Protection Area (SPA), underlining the area’s environmental value.

only celebrated for its natural beauty but also for its cultural heritage and festivities. The carnival, honoured as an International Tourist Interest festival since 2015, captivates visitors

Food Festival

Discover the charms of Águilas.

Hornillo Pier

THE Embarcadero del Hornillo or Hornillo Pier in Águilas, a grand architectural marvel constructed by British engineer Gustavo Gillman and the Great Southern of Spain Railway Company Limited, once served as a vital mineral dock. Its iron and concrete structure facilitated the seamless transfer of ore from the Sierra de los Filabres directly onto waiting ships. After its closure, the pier lay dormant until the 1980s and 1990s when it was repurposed as a marine sh farm.

Situated against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea, the pier, recently converted into a museum, o ers panoramic views of the coastline and serves as a popular spot to enjoy the scenery. Despite its age, the Embarcadero del Hornillo continues to stand strong, attracting visitors with its weathered charm and historical signi cance. Whether for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or to catch a glimpse of the town’s past, the pier remains a notable landmark in Águilas.

Local party

GET ready to mark your calendars as the Huerta de la Roja neighbourhood gears up for an exciting weekend of community celebrations on June 8 and 9. It will take place on Plaza de la Region de Murcia in honour of the Day of Murcia festivities.

From thrilling foam parties to mouthwatering gastronomic experiences and toe-tapping tunes, there’s something for everyone. Saturday, June 8 starts with bubbly fun and transi-

tions seamlessly into an array of activities for the little ones, including in atable playtime and dance lessons. The evening nishes with the electrifying beats of Los Ratones Rockones.

Sunday, June 9 promises even more excitement with a communal feast featuring a giant paella, followed by more kids’ activities, a charitable bingo session, and performances by local talents like Cuadrilla Cuesta de Gos and the beloved duo, Los clásicos de Chema y Esme.

And fear not, El Cachulero Bar will be there all weekend long to keep everyone hydrated and satis ed. It’s going to be a weekend to remember in Águilas!

with its colourful and extravagant parades and lively celebrations.

Economically, Águilas thrives on a mix of tourism and agriculture. While its sun-kissed beaches draw in summer tourists and second-home seekers, the region also boasts a thriving agricultural sector, specialising in the cultivation of fruits such as peaches, oranges, and melons.

As Águilas continues to enchant visitors with its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and economic vitality, it remains a cherished destination along the Mediterranean coast of Spain.

THE best avours of the region are coming together at Plaza Antonio Cortijo in Águilas, which will host the eighth Mar & Huerta Sabore Águilas Gastronomic Fair on June 7, 8, and 9. Organised by the Águilas Hospitality and Tourism Association (HosteÁguilas) in collaboration with the town council and 1001 Sabores Region de Murcia, this event is a delightful culinary experience.

Once again, this central square will transform into a hub of gastronomic activities, including live music, a kids’ zone, and giveaways.

The fair opens at 7pm on Friday, June 7, and o ers a diverse programme throughout the weekend. Notable events include talks by renowned chefs, theatrical tours with tapas tastings, show cooking sessions, and live music performances. With 15 stands o ering a variety of foodie treats, including dishes from local restaurants, cheese, wine, cocktails, and fruits, visitors are in for a treat. Access to the fair is through €2 tickets, from the venue’s ticket booths. Visit www.saboreaguilas. com or Águilas Tourist O ce.

Scorching summer

THE upcoming summer in the Region of Murcia is set to be scorching, with the Spanish State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) issuing a warning of above-average temperatures and minimal rainfall. According to Juan Esteban Palenzuela, the agency’s delegate in the region, there are clear indications that Murcia is headed for another season of record-breaking heat.

With a 70 per cent probability, forecasts suggest a hotter-than-normal summer, a trend that aligns with recent years. This prediction, combining various climate models and historical data, underscores the likelihood of exceptionally high temperatures.

Furthermore, the forecast indicates limited rainfall, with only weak precipitation expected. This dry spell follows a pattern observed in recent years, with Murcia experiencing a signi cant increase in tropical nights, primarily in uenced by the Mediterranean Sea’s temperature. Recent months have already shown signs of this trend, with April ranking as the fth warmest on record and March as the fourth.

Housing trends

Friendly clash

MAZARRON FC has organised a friendly match against KEA FC from Bicester, England. KEA FC, celebrating its 60th year, competes in Division One of the Oxford Senior League.

The match is set for Saturday, June 8, at 7pm at the Municipal Stadium in Mazarron. Admission is free, so fans can easily go and enjoy the game.

THE housing market in the Region of Murcia is on a steep upward trajectory, with prices soaring by 13 per cent in just a year, making it the third-highest increase in the country. With an average cost of €1,326 per square metre, Murcia still remains one of the most affordable regions, ranking fourth in the nation, trailing behind Extremadura.

Nationwide, the average housing price reached €2,269 per square metre, marking an annual increase of 10.51 per cent.

Ferran Font, director of Studies at pisos.com, explains that de-

mand-concentrated areas are experiencing a supply shortage, driving prices higher. This phenomenon is no longer confined to town and city centres but extends to more remote areas.

The recent shifts in European monetary policy have failed to curb this trend, and with the prospect of further relaxation by the European Central Bank, affordability may become even more challenging.

Despite these dynamics, Murcia remains one of the more affordable areas and Murcia City is the 11th most accessible capital in Spain.

The teams will be competing in the Megarsa Cup, generously sponsored by Megarsa Specialists from Camposol.

At the end of the match, Pedro Gines Méndez, the owner of Megarsa, will present the trophy to the winning team.

It promises to be an exciting event for both local and visiting supporters.

UPWARD TREND: Murcia’s housing market.

Red flags Coach trip

AUTHORITIES have prohibited swimming along a stretch of Entremares Beach in La Manga. Emergency services from the Copla Plan have marked o approximately 30 metres of the shoreline at Sirena Beach and 50 metres at Galúa Beach. This action was taken in response to strong winds and currents that prompted the raising of red ags across several beaches in La Manga del Mar Menor, Cartagena.

The decision to prohibit swimming and diving is a precautionary measure due to the potential risks posed by high waves, strong currents, adverse weather conditions, pollution, or dangerous marine life. The red ag indicates the most severe warning level, signalling hazards to swimmers’ health and safety. E ective rescue e orts by Copla Plan personnel saved four individuals struggling in the waters o La Manga del Mar Menor, none of whom required medical attention. Protección Civil de Cartagena promptly noti ed the Coordinating Centre for Emergency Services about the situation, leading to a successful rescue operation.

Catherine McGeer

ANDREA’S Animal Rescue and The Henrietta Foundation, located in Mazarron, is a devoted sanctuary for abandoned donkeys, currently providing care for 117 precious animals. The team is tirelessly committed to their rescue, rehabilitation, and overall well-being.

To support their noble cause, they are organising a fundraising coach trip to Mojacar and Garrucha market on June 28, offering an opportunity to contribute while enjoying a day out. Tickets are priced at €20 per person. For those interested, contact 690 906 565 or 604 129 024 email andreasanimalrescuemurcia@hot mail.com , or visit the AAR shop in Mazarron. Multiple pick-up points will be available for convenience.

Moreover, every Monday from 11am to 1pm, the team can be found at sector B car park, collecting any unwanted items for donation. For larger items, arrangements for collection can be made. Look out for the volunteers in yellow t-shirts.

Those unable to attend can still contribute by donating through PayPal at https://www. paypal.me/AARHF?locale.x=en_ES

Your support will make a significant difference in the lives of these animals.

PILARMONICS CHORUS is bursting with pride following the remarkable performance of its Musical Director, Marina Mew, and former Director, Dawn Ritch, at the prestigious BABS 50th Anniversary convention in Harrogate. The duo showcased their talents with the Lux A Cappella chorus, led by Simon Lubkowski, securing a Silver Medal in the Mixed Chorus category. This outstanding achievement highlights Pilarmonics’ commitment to excellence in a cappella music. In an open invitation to music enthusiasts, President Sue Airey welcomes inquiries at pre sidentpilarmonics01@gmail.com. Join the harmonious journey every Thursday, 6.45pm to 9pm, at Teatro Cívico, Dolores de Pacheco. For more updates, visit Pilarmonics’ Facebook page: https:// www.facebook.com/Pilarmonics.

BEACH CLOSED: Safety first.

Beach tragedy

A YOUNG man who disappeared while swimming at Playa Percheles in Mazarron was found dead by emergency services involved in the search operation.

The 22-year-old had gone missing early Sunday morning, June 2, after entering the water for a swim. The emergency services took his body to the port of Mazarron as part of the Plan Copla operation.

The search began around 7.42am when Civil Protection alerted that two people had entered the water, but only one had come out. The survivor, a 22-year-old woman, reported her companion’s disappearance, having lost sight of him while in the water. In response, the Emergency Coordination Centre of the Region of Murcia and the Maritime Rescue Coordination Cen-

Award winners

THE restoration of the Snow Wells in Sierra Espuña wins the ‘Europa Nostra’ Prize 2024, recognising the ‘conservation, recovery, and enhancement of regional heritage’. This accolade joins the likes of Espinardo’s Tonita Mill, the churches restored in Lorca post the 2011 earthquake, and Cartagena’s Roman Theatre.

The Snow Wells restoration project in the

tre immediately deployed a land, sea, and air search operation.

The operation involved Local Police, Guardia Civil patrols, the Red Cross, Civil Protection boats from Mazarron, a Maritime Rescue helicopter, and an ambulance to treat the woman for hypothermia. The Red Cross also dispatched a psychosocial team to support the deceased’s family.

Sierra Espuña Regional Park, spearheaded by the regional government, clinched the European Heritage Prize awarded by the European Commission and Europa Nostra organisation, among 25 other heritage projects across 18 EU countries.

These wells served as ice factories since the 16th century, storing snow in winter for ice production in summer. €321,754 was invested in restoring both wells, with 80 per cent funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the rest by the Ministry’s own funds.

The awards will be presented October 7 at the European Heritage Awards held at the Romanian Atheneum in Bucharest.

Nature watch

Grace Meredith THE Environment Department has kicked off a service to keep an eye on and control access to extremely popular Salto del Usero’s bathing spot from June to September, investing €64,804 in the area and its protection. They’re all about preserving the local biodiversity and making sure visitors have a great

time too.

With as many as 500 folks showing up daily in summer, they’re serious about looking after both nature and the visitors. The team they’ve hired will chat with visitors about how to take care of the area and keep an eye on who’s coming and going. They’ll be on duty from 10am to 2pm and 4pm to 8pm, star -

ting on weekends and holidays from June 1 to 14, then every day from June 15 to September 15, and finally on weekends and holidays from September 16 to 30.

On top of that, they’re sprucing up the place with better parking, visitor spots, and safety gear, with some help from the FEDER Programme for Murcia.

Salto del Usero’s new guardian service.

SPANISH CONSUMER

AFFAIRS has fined low-cost airlines Ryanair, Vueling, easyJet, and Voltea €150 million for anti-customer practices.

The Directorate General for Consumer Affairs led an investigation into their practices in 2023 when associations such as FACUA (a

Airlines fined

non-profit consumer association independent of political parties and companies) denounced the airlines for practices they considered ‘abusive’. This case has now been resolved, and a steep fine has been imposed.

The fine is for the following four infringements: charging for carrying hand luggage on board, charging for seat selection when travelling with children or dependents, lack of transparency in contractual information and excluding cash payments when buying tickets at the airport.

The report noted that initially displayed prices were not always what the customer paid, making it difficult to compare competitor offerings and therefore, an ‘unfair commercial practice’.

In addition, Ryanair has been criticised for charging unreasonable fees for printing paper tickets at the airport. Consumer Affairs considers the charges - sometimes as high as €20 - disproportionate to the actual cost.

Along with the fine, the outlined infringements are also ‘technically’ prohibited from this point forward. However, as the airlines have a right to appeal, this may not necessarily lead to a complete change in their business models.

INTERVIEW

Nosy typist

VINOD KUMAR

CHAUDHARY’S latest record-breaking feat has set a new benchmark in an unconventional category: typing the alphabet with his nose.

The 44-year-old Indian man, known as the ‘Typing Man of India’, has once again

surpassed his own record for the fastest time to type the alphabet with the nose.

After achieving his first record in 2023 with a time of 27.80 seconds and improving it to 26.73 seconds later that year, Vinod has now reduced the time to an impressive

Speaking EuropeanCecilie Gamst Berg

CECILIE GAMST BERG, a Norwegian by birth, has an enduring love for islands. After spending 30 years in Hong Kong, the tightening political climate there prompted her to seek a new island home - “You got out in time” is something she frequently hears from people in Hong Kong.

Cecilie chose Mallorca, noting that it “looked big enough and with fewer typhoons.”

Despite her Norwegian roots, it’s Hong Kong and China Cecilie misses the most, particularly the Cantonese language seminars she conducted in southern China.

The shift to Mallorca led to a significant change in lifestyle - “In Palma I feel free to move the way I want, without being hindered. There are no skyscrapers crushing me down and the air is better.”

The open spaces and lack of towering skyscrapers offer Cecilie a sense of freedom she found lacking in Hong Kong’s restrictive environment.

However, Cecilie finds the Spanish bu-

reaucracy challenging compared to the efficiency she experienced in Hong Kong“Spanish bureaucracy is so well organised, a whole industry has sprung up around it! There are lawyers and gestors and agents, all ready to tackle problems that don’t, or shouldn’t, really exist.”

After mastering Mandarin and Cantonese, Cecilie turned her attention to Spanish. She explains - “I must admit, after learning Mandarin and Cantonese, I find Spanish not as easy to pick up. I can speak but not well. So I thought, if you want to learn something, write a book about it!” ‘Plonkers Abroad: Learn Spanish Without Really Trying’ is a humorous take on language acquisition through the mistakes of foreigners.

25.66 seconds.

To successfully claim this record, Vinod had to type out the Roman alphabet on a standard QWERTY keyboard, ensuring he included a space between each letter.

His dedication to perfecting his nose-typing skills has earned him considerable recognition in the computer industry, where he works.

In addition to this achievement, Vinod holds several other typing records.

He boasts the fastest time to type the alphabet backwards with one hand (5.36 seconds) and the fastest time to type the alphabet with hands behind the back (6.78 seconds).

Vinod’s journey into record-breaking began as a means to combine his professional skills with his passion for typing. He explains that his profession has always involved typing, prompting him to pursue records that align with both his career and interests.

Despite the physical challenges, such as experiencing dizziness and seeing stars during practice, Vinod believes that dedication can overcome any obstacle.

Cecilie Gamst Berg.

VINOD: Known as the ‘Typing Man of India’.

Pension inequality

Trelawney Bresic POLITICAL parties are being urged to support the Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI), as the upcoming general election approaches.

In March 2024, a government watchdog called for the UK government to apologise and compensate women born in the 1950s/60s who were affected by the increase in the state pension age. These women, according to the report, are ‘owed’ money because the changes to the pension age were not communicated properly. The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman investigated whether women were adequately informed of the rise in the state pension age to bring it in line with that of men.

The government responded by stating it would consider the report and respond in due course. However, the ombudsman condemned the Depart-

ment for Work and Pensions (DWP) for its stance, stating that the department has ‘clearly indicated it will refuse to comply’ with the pay-out proposal, deeming this stance ‘unacceptable.’

Angela Madden, chair of the Waspi campaign, has stated that a solution needs to be started within the first 100 days of a new government.

Women affected by these changes continue to seek justice and adequate compensation for the financial hardships they have endured. The call for a fair resolution remains strong, with

campaigners and affected individuals urging the UK’s political parties to announce a meaningful action plan.

Ophelia Smith, 70, now living on the Costa del Sol, shared her experience - “I got the worst of all worlds because I spent nine years working for the Civil Service in Gibraltar, where the pensionable age for women is 60. But because I spent more time working in the UK, I wasn’t able to obtain my Gibraltar pension until I was 65 as well. I guess the change of pensionable age has cost me about £30,000.”

Dozens of MPs have backed calls to compensate women affected by State Pension age changes.

Summer Lineup

COSTA CALIDA

GET ready for an exciting summer at El Auditorio El Batel in Cartagena with ‘Los Veranos de El

Batel’ (El Batel Summers).

From July to August, the stage will come alive with a lineup of performances, catering to all tastes.

Sergio presenting 1st promising a

Kicking off the festivities on July 5 is the renowned Sergio Dalma, presenting his latest album and showcasing his ‘80s-inspired sound. On July 11, the Joven Orquesta Sinfónica de Cartagena (JOSCT) takes centre stage with Gustav Mahler’s monumental 1st Symphony, promising a symphonic journey filled with dynamic themes.

Marwán brings his eclectic blend of music on July 12, celebrating 20 years

in the industry by featuring various exciting collaborations across various genres. But the highlight of the summer comes on July 27 with the ‘Totally Tina!’ show, a spectacular tribute to the iconic Tina Turner. Audiences will be treated to electrifying renditions of Turner’s greatest hits, promising a night of soulful nostalgia and rock ‘n’ roll energy.

With these shows and much more, ‘Los Veranos de El Batel’ promises an unforgettable summer filled with music, laughter, and cultural delights for all.

For tickets see auditorioelbatel.es or at El Batel ticket office from Monday to Saturday 10am to 3pm.

THE Tourism Department of San Pedro del Pinatar presents Tacones de Arena 2.0 (Heals of Sand) - ‘The Essence of Flamenco by the Sea,’ every Tuesday in July at 9pm. Held on the beaches of La Puntica, Villananitos, and El Mojón, this free event promises an authentic experience of traditional flamenco. With its roots deep in Spanish culture, flamenco music and

Jazz Afternoon Beach Flamenco

dance captivate audiences worldwide. Against the backdrop of the Mediterranean and the Mar Menor, Tacones de Arena 2.0 adds a unique touch to the summer evenings, blending the passion of flamenco with the tranquillity of the sea. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the rhythm and soul of Spain’s rich artistic heritage.

AGE CONCERN Costa Calida, a dedicated charity serving people over 50, is set to host a fundraising event on Saturday, June 8. The charity provides essential services, including advice and information, befriending, hospital and care home visits, and medical equipment hire, all free of charge.

Volunteers also manage the charity’s phone lines during advertised hours, returning calls as soon as possible if they are busy. Managed entirely by unpaid volunteers, Age Concern Costa Calida relies solely on fundraising activities and donations from

local residents. The charity does not receive any funding from Spain or the UK.

The upcoming fundraiser promises an afternoon of jazz featuring music from the Trio Latino. The event will take place from 2pm to 8pm in the charity’s social centre garden, and attendees can enjoy a delicious BBQ and buffet. Tickets are available for €10. For more information about the event or services, contact Age Concern Costa Calida via call or WhatsApp on 634 344 589 or 623 118 062. Support this wonderful charity organisation and enjoy a soulful afternoon of jazz for a good cause.

Catherine McGeer

Image: San Pedro del Pinatar Town Hall

QUIRKY TOWN

La Tomatina of Buñol

John Smith

IT was in August 1945 that a number of young men attended a Giants parade in the town of Buñol (Valencia) but there was a bit of an unscheduled scuffle. Suddenly the peace was shattered and members of the crowd raided a vegetable stall and started pelting each other with tomatoes until the Local Police brought the battle to an end.

The following year, va-

rious groups of friends turned up with their own tomatoes and started a tradition that was banned for some years but in 1957, there was a formal burial of a giant tomato in a coffin accompanied by a band playing the funeral march. From then on it was all systems go for the event which was recognised in 2002 as a Festivity of International Tourist Interest and takes place on the last Wednesday of August

each year.

Thanks to TV coverage, up to 50,000 people have descended upon Buñol and it became very difficult to control so nowadays there is a maximum of 20,000 allowed and they have to purchase a ticket costing €12 to take part even to watch.

The tomatoes are shipped in from Extremadura as they are cheaper than local tomatoes and in theory the event can’t start until one person climbs a greasy pole and liberates a ham but because that take so long, invariably mayhem breaks out as people get hold of the red fruit and start throwing it.

There is one major rule which is that you should squash the tomato first so it doesn’t hurt too much and that you are only allowed to battle for one hour and then you have to stop and

the town starts hosing down the streets immediately.

If you are thinking of going, visit https://latomatina.info/entradas/ to apply for a ticket, or a number of travel agents offer a range of options including coach trips and overnight accommodation with entry.

Kids are not allowed to take part but they have their own event, normally on the following Saturday when those aged from four to 14 can enjoy their own mini-battle (with no parents allowed in the area) for about half an hour and this is a free event with no advance booking.

La Tomatina at Buñol is not for the faint hearted.

Enjoying a tomato bath.

Credit:

La Tomatina

de Buñol

IRELAND

US visitor

BIRDWATCHERS from all over the country and even the UK are descending on Belcarra (County Mayo) to see the North American yellow-crested night heron which has been spotted in Ireland for the first time. Experts believe the bird must have arrived after it was caught up in one of last autumn’s hurricanes.

Gun law

TRANSPORT minister Eamon Ryan is to introduce legislation that will permit random checks of civil aircraft and non-military planes to ensure that neither weapons nor ammunition are on board. Although the law already prohibits this on Irish soil without an exemption, the current law does not allow for random checks.

NORWAY

Don’t intrude

NORWAY’S Consumer Council opposed proposals to introduce a social media age limit although spokeswoman Inger Lise Blyverket said she understood the government’s wishes to protect children and young people. But age verification was so intrusive that the Consumer Council “simply could not support it,” she added.

Cold War

A RESEARCH conference ending on June 3 in the Arctic town of Bodo could be targeted by intelligence agencies, the authorities believe. The Police Security Service (PST) warned that spies from some of the countries attending would be especially interested in the participants who possessed sensitive information.

ITALY

No cameras

ITALY has approximately 11,130 speed cameras but after new regulations come into force, local prefectures and not town halls will be responsible for their locations. The updated rules will also include the removal of speed cameras on roads in built-up areas where there is a speed limit of 50 kilometres per hour or lower.

Tragic fall

THREE members of the Guardia di Finanza (GdF) force’s Alpine Rescue unit, aged 22, 25 and 33, died during a climbing exercise in Val di Masino. A rocky spur gave way as they negotiated the Asteroid Precipice and the three men, who were roped together, fell 30 metres as their colleagues looked on, unable to intervene.

EURO PRESS

PORTUGAL

No charge

ON International Museum Day on May 18, when entry was free of charge, Culture minister Dalila Rodrigues announced that it would soon be possible to visit any of Portugal’s 38 heritage sites without having to pay. The scheme incorporating a mobile app would be implemented “before long”, Rodrigues said.

BELGIUM

Rolling stock

THIRTY people in two carriages of a train that was being uncoupled at Mechelen station found themselves leaving the station without a driver, only coming to a halt when a quick-thinking passenger pulled the emergency cord. Other trains were then halted while the passengers were safely evacuated, rail operator NMBS said.

New batch

BELGIUM could develop antibiotics capable of tackling growing antimicrobial resistance (AMR), now that existing medicines are ineffectual and only 10 new drugs were approved worldwide between 2017 and 2023. It was vital to secure support and incentives, said Antwerp University’s Professor Herman Goossens.

DENMARK

Foodora leaves

THE Foodora food and groceries delivery service which operates in northern Europe announced that it was leaving Denmark where it launched in late 2022 and now covers most of the country. Citing “economic developments”, Foodora said it would redistribute the company’s resources to other active markets.

Less red tape

THE government announced that it would save 1,000 man-years of work in 2025 by cutting down on bureaucracy, with further savings in coming years. Finance minister Nicolai Wammen said that having asked Denmark’s towns, cities and regions to streamline procedures, the state also had to play its part.

FRANCE

Quiet please

EIGHTY per cent of the Paris region’s 9.7 million inhabitants endure noise levels exceeding the World Health Organisation’s recommendations, a monitoring organisation said. Noise pollution increased the risk of serious diseases in the area and had an annual social cost of €43 billion, according to Bruitparif.

DNA clues

INVESTIGATORS from France’s Cold Case Unit requested fresh DNA analyses of evidence in the 2012 shooting of a British family and a French cyclist in a remote Alpine village. Detectives believe that re-examining clothing, cigarette ends and fragments of the gun used could throw fresh light on the murders.

FINLAND

Dug up

PARTICIPANTS in the Crowdsorsa mobile phone game can earn up to 25 per cents a square metre for removing non-native plants like Himalayan balsam and lupins from the Helsinki countryside. Every helping hand was needed, the city’s Environment department explained, as mechanical removal was impractical.

Lagging behind

HELSINKI was at risk of being overtaken by Denmark, Norway and Sweden in wooing tourism during the post-pandemic era, a study carried out by the city’s Tourism Foundation concluded. Foreign visitors accounted for fewer than two million overnight stays in 2023, just 78 per cent of the total registered in 2019.

SWEDEN

Storm damage

TWO buildings located between Gothenburg and Boras were struck by lightning on May 27 during violent thunderstorms, although firefighters soon had both fires under control and there were no reports of injuries. Several areas in western and central Sweden were also affected by flooding during the torrential downpours.

Sweet music

STIM, Sweden’s performing rights organisation, announced record revenues of 3.095 billion krona (€269.6 million) for 2023, an increase that was 14 per cent up on the previous year. Forty-two per cent of STIM’s income came from digital sources, which rose by 8 per cent to 942 million krona (€82.07 million).

GERMANY

New residents

APPROXIMATELY 200,100 people became naturalised German citizens in 2023, more than at any time since the beginning of this century and a 19 per cent increase on 2022. Fifty-six per cent, of whom more than half were male, were from Romania, Syria, Turkey, Iraq or Afghanistan, with an average age of 29.3 years.

No jab

MEMBERS of Germany’s armed forces no longer need to provide proof that they have been vaccinated against Covid 19, an obligation introduced in November 2021. This requirement has been dropped on the advice of the military advisory committee and replaced with a “strong recommendation” in favour of vaccination.

NETHERLANDS

Top job

DICK SCHOOF, a 67-year-old senior official at the Netherlands Justice ministry with no current link to a political party, is on course to head the coalition government. As a former head of Dutch intelligence, Schoof is an expert on security and migration, which are key issues for the four members of the coalition.

Going ahead

JUDGES in The Hague revoked a permit to drill for natural gas off the North Sea island of Schiermonnikoog following an appeal from environmentalists in April. Despite the potential risks to nature, the Economic Affairs ministry said the permit has been restored after the drilling firm provided more information.

HERITAGE SITE: 16th century Jeronimos Monastery in Belem.

Will you vote? VOX Pop

WE asked a number of people at random whether they were eligible to vote in the upcoming European elections and if so were they likely to bother or are MEPs a bit of a waste of time?

Dana Dushullina from Russia, living in Altea, is not eligible to vote and is unsure whether she would if she was. “I’m not so confident that my vote would even count… From my personal experience and knowledge of other countries and the systems across the world. In the modern day, there are too many artificially created levers of pressure to count on fair elections, so even if voting, I wouldn’t expect too much of the results.”

election as I am a pensioner are of far more interest to me.”

Dave McGuire, who lives in Santa Ponsa, Mallorca and is from Ireland said “I can vote, but I won’t. I think MEPS are a bit of a waste of time. They don’t seem to make much of a difference in our daily lives.”

Duncan G Inglis from Canada, living in Altea de la Vella has no interest in voting even though he could.

“Voting in general, in any country, is seriously flawed because most people don’t know what they’re voting for; they vote based on tradition and slogan. Voters don’t go into the details of election promises or what the Party will actually do once in power.

“The politicians take advantage of this by omitting details or outright lying. There is too much hypocrisy from both sides. It is a lie when Democracy claims you have the right to choose. There really is not much to choose from. So I don’t bother.”

Debbie Jones originally from Wales but now living in Mojacar commented, “To be honest I don’t take much notice of the European Election, from my point of view, the local elections followed by the Spanish government election and even the UK

Marion Oprel , from the Netherlands living in Javea is not eligible to vote in Spain but would definitely voice her opinion if she could.

“I would absolutely vote if I could.

I think, certainly these days, every vote counts and matters. Democracy, diversity and peace are now under pressure.

“The vote for extremist and radical rightist parties in Spain is bad news for tolerance, freedom of expression and our culture in general. I wish I could have a say in the general elections.”

Kathleen Misson from England, living in Moraira is only eligible to vote for local elections and has doubts about the elections in general. “Voting is complicated because we don’t know what the truth is. I rarely watch Spanish news because I know the media only tells people what they want them to know and I don’t bother following the votes and the results.”

DUNCAN G INGLIS

KATHLEEN MISSON

DANA DUSHILLINA

MARION OPREL

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Homing in

PERSIMMON, which has a market value of £4.7 billion (€5.5 billion) and is the UK’s third most-important property developer after Taylor Wimpey and Barratt Homes, is said to be considering a takeover of its competitor Cala. Owned by Legal & General, the Cala deal would cost around £1 billion (€1.17 billion).

Take a seat

CRITERIA CAIXA, CaixaBank’s investment company, and the Real Automobile Club de Catalunya (RACC) are returning to the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce. They left owing to the business association’s former proindependence stance and following board changes, both will now pay at least €75,000 to occupy Cambra seats.

Sob story

ONLINE fast fashion retailer Boohoo has given up on plans topaya£1million(€1.75million) bonus to each of its three top executives. Shareholders have rebelled after sales fell to £1.8 billion (€2.12 billion) and the company racked up a £95 million (€111.7 million) debt for the financial year that ended in February 2024.

Wedding blues

PRONOVIAS, famed for its lavish wedding dresses, announced losses of €93.1 million in 2023 following a 9 per cent reduction in sales and setbacks stemming from the pandemic. The company also revealed plans for a series of “staff adjustments” expected to affect 85 employees at its Barcelona offices.

Numis numbed

DEUTSCHE BANK, which acquired London-based stockbroking group Numis for £410 million (€482 million) in April 2023, has halted its US operations. Nunis’s value has been slashed to £200 million (€233 million) and US staff will either merge with the Deutsche Bank’s own New York head office or relocate.

STAT OF WEEK

€10.4 million

in sales for Spain’s cosmetics industry during 2023, a 12 per cent increase on 2022, the National Perfumery and Cosmetics Association (Stanpa) announced.

Czech-mate for Royal Mail Try later

ROYAL MAIL’S parent company International Distributions Services (IDS) has agreed to a £3.57 billion (€4.2 billion) takeover by Daniel Kretinsky.

The Czech billionaire, who has a stake in Sainsbury’s and West Ham Football Club, is already IDS’s largest shareholder through his company EP Group and will acquire the 73 per cent of Royal Mail that he does not yet own.

“The EP Group has the utmost respect for Royal Mail’s history and tradition,” declared a statement from the man known as the Czech Sphinx. “I know that owning this business will come with enormous

responsibility, not just to the employees but to the citizens who rely on its services every day.”

The deal includes the legal obligation to maintain Royal Mail’s Saturday deliveries and the first

TENDAM, which owns Cortefiel and Women’s Secret amongst other labels, is working flat out to list in Madrid before July 12.

The clothing chain, now pre sent in 79 countries, was acqui red by private equity firms CVC Capital Partners and PAI Part ners in 2017.

With a float that would value

Tendam at an expected €2.5 bi llion, the company headed by Jaume Miquel hopes to attract the big US-based hedge funds whose investments are tied by a norm requiring an inter-

Teknia results

CAR component manufacturer Teknia, based in Zaldibar (Vizacaya) posted a record €460 million turnover for 2023.

Although this was a 19.5 per cent increase on the previous year, its net profit fell by 12.5 per cent to €14 million, the multinational manufacturer said.

The company, which has 1,000 employees inside Spain, explained that it had doubled spending on equipment, which grew from €13.98 million in 2022, to 31.2 million in 2023.

class one-price-goes anywhere pledge. Kretinsky has also guaranteed that he would protect the Royal Mail brand, which goes back 500 years, and that there would be no job cuts. The company will re-

tain its headquarters and tax-residency in the UK for at least five years, he stated.

The Royal Mail deal needs the approval of IDS shareholders at the annual general meeting in September and could still be obstructed under the UK’s National Security and Investment Act.

Meanwhile, although IDS shares rose by 3 per cent to 331p (€3.89) when markets opened on May 29, the price fell short of EP’s Royal Mail offer of 360p (€4.23) per share.

This suggested the markets were not entirely certain that the deal would definitely go through, City insiders said.

Deadline for Tendam

val of fewer than 135 days since the end of a company’s financial year.

Tendam’s ended on February 29, and the company needs to list by Friday, July 12. As the process takes a month, it should make a decision “within days” according to analysts.

The last day that it can formally announce its intention to float is June 12, although the same sources said they believed this deadline would be met.

Uranium

spat

AUSTRALIAN mining group Berkeley is seeking $1 billion (€921 million) in damages from the Spanish government.

The company launched arbitration proceedings with the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes via its Spanish subsidiary Berkely Energia on May 28 after Madrid refused definitive approval for a uranium mine in Retortillo (Salamanca).

Permission for the mine was granted in 2013, but the government announced in 2021 and again in 2023 that it intended to prevent the project from going ahead.

An Environment ministry spokesperson explained that Spain’s Nuclear Security Council report had raised concerns regarding the storage of radioactive waste at the facility, but declined to comment on the arbitration request.

THE UK government temporarily shelved plans to sell part of its remaining shares in the NatWest bank, whose 2008 bailout cost £45.5 billion (€53.4 billion).

The sale, preceded by an M&C Saatchi advertising campaign, should have taken place in June, but with a General Election announced for July 4, the Treasury confirmed that a retail offer “would not happen” during the election period.

Any sale was unlikely until the end of this year, and the new government would have to review the proposals, Treasury sources said.

HARLAND & WOLFF might have to close its Arnish and Methil shipyards in Scotland and concentrate on Royal Navy contracts.

The company, always remembered for having built the Titanic at its Belfast yard, is counting on a £200 million (€235.16 million) loan. This will fall through if it cannot secure a guarantee from the government, Harland & Wolff chiefs warned.

According to UK media sources, 500 Arnish and Methil workers have been told that they risk being laid off if the loan does not arrive.

In decline

THE Evening Standard, a London daily since 1827, is to become a weekly paper.

It has lost £84.5 million (€99.3 million) over the last six years and now relies on funding from co-owner Evgeny Lebedev. Other owners include a bank allegedly linked to the Saudi government.

Distributed at the capital’s Underground stations, the Standard has been hit hard by the introduction of Wi-Fi on the Tube as well as changing consumer habits and a switch to working from home.

Industry sources also maintain that Lebedev would have sold the publication some time ago, but was unable to find a buyer.

THE Carulla family, which owns GB Foods, received €52 million in dividends in 2023 via its Agrolimen and Coveral Inversiones companies.

This was the biggest payout in the last 14 years and the first since 2020, according to accounts submitted to the Registro Mercantil, Spain’s equivalent of Companies House.

These revealed the company, which is best known by its former name of Gallina Blanca, had a consolidated net profit of €143.4 million, 14 per cent more than in 2022.

Gallina Blanca payout

NEW OWNER: No change to Royal Mail, Kretinsky pledged.

Photo credit: Flickr/Kai Hendry

JAUME MIQUEL: Tendam’s chief executive.

3I Group 2.896,00 2.928,00 2.895,00 101,00K

Admiral Group 2.734,0 2.750,0 2.723,0 23,05K

Airtel Africa 124,10 125,21 122,70 147,06K

Anglo American 2.478,5 2.557,8 2.468,0 524,32K

Antofagasta 2.215,00 2.277,00 2.213,00 131,14K

Ashtead Group 5.744,0 5.822,0 5.714,0 40,43K

Associated British Foods 2.585,8 2.590,0 2.575,0 78,98K AstraZeneca 12.202,0 12.356,0 12.088,0 253,59K

Auto Trader Group Plc 827,00 833,80 820,00 426,73K

Aviva 482,50 485,80 482,50 769,38K

B&M European Value Retail SA 551,93 556,40 551,20 154,13K

BAE Systems 1.404,00 1.409,50 1.396,50 1,22M Barclays 222,25 224,25 221,95 5,63M

Barratt Developments 507,60 513,00 506,80 120,18K

Beazley 696,50 701,00 694,00 147,92K

Berkeley 5.325,0 5.335,0 5.297,9 13,02K

BP 491,15 494,35 489,70 3,51M

American Tobacco 2.438,0 2.445,6 2.430,0 364,97K BT Group 132,40 132,75 130,80 2,63M

2.968,0 2.998,0 2.946,0 166,00K Burberry Group 1.054,5 1.059,1 1.036,5 109,59K

142,52 145,85 142,25 2,17M Coca Cola HBC AG 2.700,0 2.710,0 2.686,0 141,36K

Euro

EUR/GBP: Down from £0.86 to £0.85

EUR/USD: Up from $1.06 to $1.08

Trade in the euro has been mixed over the past month ahead of a widely expected interest rate cut from the European Central Bank (ECB) in June.

Supporting EUR exchange rates in recent weeks has been a downturn in the US dollar, as well as some upbeat Eurozone data releases, including a continued uptick in growth in the bloc’s private sector.

However ongoing ECB rate cut bets have ultimately capped the single currency’s upside potential through May.

Looking forward, while a rate cut from the ECB next month is largely priced in, the outlook beyond that is less clear. EUR investors will

Currency outlook: US dollar slides on renewed Fed rate cut expectations, pound strengthens in upbeat trade

be paying close attention to the bank’s forward guidance, with the euro poised to slump if the ECB signals plans for another rate cut before the end of summer.

Pound

GBP/EUR: Up from €1.15 to €1.17

GBP/USD: Up from $1.23 to $1.27

The pound trended broadly higher over the past four weeks, with the increasingly risk-sensitive currency finding strength amid a more optimistic market mood.

However, Sterling got off to a rocky start in May. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation’s (OECD) slashing of its UK growth forecasts, coupled with dovish forward guidance from the Bank of England (BoE) both took their toll on GBP.

GBP exchange rates then

rallied through the second half of May. Sterling initially drew support amid an improving market mood, before a stronger-than-expected UK inflation print propelled the pound to new multi-month highs as GBP investors scaled back bets the BoE may cut interest rates in June.

While a June rate cut now appears less likely, there’s still the potential for the BoE to

surprise markets next month. Even if the bank leaves rates on hold, any dovish signals could reverse the pound’s recent gains.

US Dollar

USD/GBP: Down from $0.81 to $0.78

USD/EUR: Down from €0.94 to €0.91

A clear US dollar selling bias has emerged over the

past month. This has been driven primarily by a repricing of Federal Reserve interest rate cut expectations.

Weaker-than-expected US inflation and payroll figures, coupled with cautious comments from Fed Chair Jerome Powell following the US central bank’s latest policy meeting, revived bets that US interest rates will be cut multiple times in 2024

The Fed will next meet in June. If the US central bank continues to strike a dovish tone then the USD selloff may persist.

Currencies Direct have helped over 500,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

Trade in the euro has been mixed over the past month.

I have never voted

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

DEAR Lord; for all our sakes, please reincarnate Screaming Lord Such and his raving Loony Party. Despite the gobbledygook this hippy style bunch of nutty volunteers spouted in days of yore they at least advocated a peaceful co-existence on this utterly war torn globe of ours. Well not any more. Let’s just have a look around, if you actually care that is! The utterly pathetic Westminster woke ticket inspectors are once again traversing bus routes across the country.

Prime Minister Sunak, whose election campaign is probably directed by his multi-millionaire wife Akshata (I bet she’s expensive!) continues to babble unattainable nonsense.

Starmer, ’The Changer’ still carefully disregards what an extreme leftie he was during the reign of Corbyn and remains well under the cosh of Ms ‘Two Houses’ Rayner, who has not only managed to slip out from under the threat of legal action, but made sure to pick up a few black votes by

recommending the reestablishment of Diana Abbot; a woman who appeared to originally gain her status in the party by the positions she managed to accomplish with Jeremy Corbyn during their somewhat torrid affair in the late 70s.

Looking a little further afield we meet up with Mr Putin, the Russian president who has managed to assassinate all his rivals and now runs his non democratic country with a rod of iron as he negotiates his position with other nations ruled by despots of the same ilk. South Africa’s money grabbing, family infested party the ANC, who I warned about years ago, has now churned the country into the dirt and poverty of the farms they destroyed by the assassination and crushing of the conscientious farmers. A bunch of inferior racist racketeers who stood by witnessing the infrastructure and success achieved by the white minority fall into utter rack and ruin. Still don’t trust them. The column is far too short to mention all the countries whose Western and Eastern leaders are still lurking in the luxury lounges of supremacy and command. Many of them, par-

ticularly Islamic regimes, possess power mad and soul destroying destructive policies. Spain and Ireland, two basically peaceful nations that I do admire, have actually been run by coalitions for some years - probably the answer! And so we come to America. I bet Putin is rubbing his hands. If Trump, who has now attained a criminal record, manages to utilise his new reputation to gain even more popularity and becomes the next president, be assured, both he and the Russian premier will be sharing diplomacies long before America’s new head of state totally conforms with Europe’s Western leaders.

I will also be amazed if doddering Biden, who is undoubtedly controlled in the vice of Kamala Harris and whose son is this week actually facing 25 years in prison for gun offences, actually wins. Once again I reiterate, as an advocate of peace and love I have never voted in my life. And casting an eye around, unless I am reincarnated in about 1,000 years, never will.

Keep the faith

Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

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

Phone bans

DUTCH researchers revealed that prohibiting phones at school does not benefit students.

The Dutch Ministry of Education banned the use of phones in 2023, aiming to improve the experience of students, but the results were not impressive.

A study by the Radboud University in Nijmegen surveyed 1,000 teachers, parents and students on their experience of phone-free schools and found that while parents and teachers were in favour, students rated their experience an average of 4.8 out of 10, compared to 6.8 before the prohibition.

The researcher, Loes Pouwels, shared that increased personal contact led to more cases of ‘offline bullying’ and physical violence. Forty per cent of the students said that their school breaks were better without a phone, while 37 per cent said they missed them.

“I am forced to socialise when I’m not in the mood, which is often,” shared one of the students. Many mentioned the disadvantages of not having a phone and being unable to consult school schedules.

For students with health conditions, including mental disorders, this was particularly difficult, as they were unable to be in touch with family members.

Phone use at school.

Extreme measures

WHERE money is involved people can be very inventive. In the past, Ryanair passengers have worn multiple layers of clothes to avoid check-in fees and now a traveller from Malaga broke off the wheels of his suitcase to avoid paying the €70 that the airline wanted for checking in his luggage as it was slightly oversize.

Other passengers on the Palma to Malaga flight recorded what happened and videos appeared immediately on social media showing the young man pulling hard on the wheels, until he finally manages to pull off all four, to the cheers and applause of the rest of the people in the boarding area.

Traveller pulled the wheels off his suitcase.

After this display of strength and ingenuity, the Malaga-born man checks that his suitcase, now minus

those extra centimetres, is within the measurements required by the airline to avoid having to check it in. Amused Ryanair staff confirm it now complies with the regulations and he heads off to board his flight without having to pay the check-in fee for his case.

Sure thing for e-scooters

IT won’t happen immediately, but there are big changes in store for anybody using an electric scooter in Spain.

A Cabinet Meeting on Tuesday May 28 approved modi cations to the proposed Vehicle Insurance Law which included obligatory insurance for the owners of all types of personal mobility vehicles.

That means mobility scooters and, above all, the increasingly popular e-scooters.

Once the law comes into force, all these vehicles must be covered by third-party insurance and they will have to be registered with the national Tra c Department (DGT) by January 2, 2026.

Some town and city halls as far apart as Benidorm in Alicante Province and Bilbao in the Basque Region already require the owners of e-scooters to insure them, but this

E-SCOOTERS: More protection for anyone involved in an accident.

has not been mandatory nationwide until now.

The insurance means there will be fair compensation for anyone involved in an accident caused by an e-scooter or a mobility vehicle.

“We want to reconcile the use of sustainable urban transport with better protection for the victims of accidents involving these new vehicles,” a Ministry of the Economy spokesper-

Accidents involving e-scooters are on the rise, with one leading insurance company alone dealing with 300 serious cases in 2023, when 11 people lost their lives and least 287 people were injured.

Having received Cabinet approval, the draft law will now make its way through the national parliament, a process that will take several months.

Costa del Sol Funding success

THE Mijas Association of Relatives of Alzheimer’s Patients (AFA Mijas) has received funding of just over €90,000 towards the digitalisation of its services, an amount that makes it possible to optimise the treatments received by users.

The mayor of Mijas, Ana Mata, together with the government delegate of the Junta de Andalucia in Malaga, Patricia Navarro, visited the headquarters of AFA Mijas because, as the mayor explained, she wants to continue to work with the association to improve the care provided to patients.

The funding that has been awarded comes from the European Next Generation funds and AFA Mijas was the only organisation to obtain this grant in Malaga Province. The money is being used to buy new computers and digitial whiteboards.

AFA Mijas is a non-profit organisation whose aim is to promote an active lifestyle that maintains the autonomy of people affected by Alzheimer’s.

Axarquia World Oceans Day

CALLING all Almuñecar nature lovers! Saturday, June 8, marks World Oceans Day, and 10 local associations, including Los Nórdicos de Almuñecar, are joining forces for a beach clean-up event.

Los Nórdicos will be focusing on Playa Puerta del Mar, and everyone is welcome to pitch in! Grab your friends, family, and neighbours for a meaningful morning. The meeting point is 9.30am next to Chiringuito La Corrala (on the beach opposite Las Gondolas). Look for the municipal tent.

The plan is to split into two groups, tackling the east and west sections of the beach. The clean-up will take about an hour, wrapping up at 10.45am back at La Corrala.

To show their appreciation, Chiringuito La Corrala will be offering a drink with tapas to all participants after the clean-up. Don’t forget to bring a large plastic bottle (or similar) to collect cigarette butts, along with some gardening gloves (or any type of gloves).

Mallorca Alucudiamar Regatta

ON June 1 and 2, the port of Alcudiamar hosted the fourth edition of the ‘Trofeo Alcudiamar - Projecte Home Balears’ regatta. This charity competition for ORC/RI cruise boats has firmly established itself within the Balearic regatta calendar, blending intense competition at sea with engaging social activities on land.

Throughout the two-day event, both sailors and visitors enjoyed a variety of activities designed to enrich the experience. Environmental and sustainability workshops, such as the ‘Microplastic Watcher’ organised by Cleanwave Education and ‘Paddle and Snorkel for Science’ by Mar de Fondo, provided educational insights.

Attendees also learned to tie nautical knots with the Fishermen’s Guild of Alcudia and explored the electric sailboat ‘Galaxie’. The Palma Aquarium Foundation educated participants on the dangers facing the Mediterranean, while boat trips and concerts added to the festive atmosphere.

Costa Blanca North Hidden gem

VILLAJOYOSA, the picturesque town on the Costa Blance, has been named the number one hidden gem in Europe by European Best Destination, a platform dedicated to promoting tourism across the continent.

This year, they’ve picked some real rare finds! Among the highlights are Naantali in Finland, Pico Island’s volcano in the Azores, the charming half-timbered houses of Ulm in Germany, the colorful painted village of Cicmany in Slovakia, Wuppertal’s unique suspended metro, the green-roofed houses of Bour, and the floating houses on Lake Bokod in Hungary.

But it is Villajoyosa that steals the spotlight this year.

Known for its wonderful climate, Villajoyosa is “shielded from the north winds by the Sierras de Aitana”, providing a pleasant microclimate and comfortable temperatures year-round. The town’s unique architecture is another major draw.

Almeria

Top destination

ACCORDING to travel portal, Destinia, the number of reservations in Spain for the summer months has already increased by 54 per cent compared to the previous period.

One of the reasons for this increase is the fact that potential travellers are looking to book early in order to try to obtain the best deals and guaranteed cheapest prices.

Beatriz Officialdegui, Destina Marketing Director, said: “We Spanish are getting a long way ahead of ourselves compared to other years. We increasingly see that the cost of holidays are going up so what we do is to get in early to combat this steady increase.”

There has been a huge surge in popularity for Almeria in general and Mojacar in particular with the province jumping from last year’s fifth place to this year’s first.

Mojacar leads the way as top destination and other popular provinces are Tarragona, Gran Canaria, Malaga, Cadiz and Alicante.

Costa Blanca South Buyers beware

SPAIN is cracking down on tourists who buy from unlicensed street vendors.

In Costa Blanca, undercover police will be patrolling the streets, ready to fine unsuspecting shoppers.

The government are taking action against illegal street sellers who sell everything from trainers and sunglasses to fake designer handbags and watches.

Tourists are often tempted by the low prices, but now those who buy cheap souvenirs could face a £170 fine.

Plainclothes police will be on the lookout throughout the busy summer season, and anyone caught buying from these unlicensed sellers, known locally as ‘manteros’ or ‘top mantas’, could be fined up to €200 (around £170) on the spot.

Recently, the Guardia Civil seized several tonnes of counterfeit products from a warehouse in Alicante intended for these street sellers.

Mindful motion

SOMATIC yoga, a practice combi ning traditional yoga with somatic movement, focuses on enhan cing body awareness and releasing physical tension. This gentle, mindful approach helps practitioners tune into their bodies, promoting re laxation and reducing stress. Unlike more vigorous forms of yoga, somatic yoga involves slow, deli berate movements, making it accessible to people of all ages

proves flexibility, posture,

viating chronic pain and

nection between mind and body, it also aids in managing

Ideal for those recovering from injury, dealing with chronic pain, or seeking a gentle form of exercise, somatic yoga is especially beneficial

torative way to stay active and

Protect your skin

MAY was deemed to be skin cancer awareness month worldwide to educate and prepare us for the sun exposure of the summer months.

While Spain has some of the lowest incidences of recorded melanomas, compared to the rest of Europe, it is still important to be ‘skin smart’ this summer.

The easiest and most effective way is to wear sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF). This will ensure adequate protection against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays (UVB and UVA).

The rule of thumb is that the fairer you are, the higher the SPF factor you need. This is because SPF is the amount of additional time you can be exposed to the sun compared to without it. So, for those who burn within 10 minutes unprotected, an SPF 50 should protect you 50 times longer.

Wearing sunscreen should become part of your daily ritual, even if you are walking to the supermarket. Experts recommend applying it at least 30 mi-

nutes before exposure to the sun to allow for effective absorption.

You may be interested to know that chemist Eugene Schueller launched the first commercial sun product in 1936. The founder of L’Oreal developed the first tanning oil to contain UV radiation filtering.

In 1938, Franz Greiter, a Swiss chemist, was mountaineering and got sunburnt. This led to the invention of the first modern sunscreen. In honour of the mountain that inspired the product, he named his brand Piz Buin. Greiter is also credited with inventing SPF, which wasn’t until 1962.

Tongue in cheek First erotic restaurant

A YOUNG art student, Alec Geluykens has decided to combine his irritation at the way cyclists are treated in his home Antwerp with his Master’s Degree.

He has created a special art installation the BTS_200X which looks at the difficulty that cyclists face in the city and it is imbued with humour as well as anger with the authorities.

The name stands for Bike To Survive and the 200X refers to the Antwerp post codes.

Describing his creation he said “despite significant government efforts, cycling infrastructure in Antwerp remains inadequate and sometimes even dangerous in many places. With the elections just around the corner, this is the perfect time to highlight the social importance of safe cycling to policymakers.”

Main problems as he sees them are the quality of roads and cycle lanes, long waits for traffic lights to change, dangerous tram tracks and a cycle bridge which leads to steep stairs. His answers include special suspension taken from

a moped to make the ride more bearable, airbags, five wheels forming a roll cage although they do make the bike somewhat higher than norm, an extendable arm to press unreachable light buttons and even a coffee machine so that he can brew up whilst waiting for

Credit: Alec Geluykens

traffic lights to change.

Looks and sounds rather odd but this is a working bike and having demonstrated it to Belgian TV crews, he was due to join the monthly Critical Mass bike demonstration through the city on May 31.

IT promises ‘an unprecedented culinary and artistic experience, celebrating passion in all its forms’.

Voglia, Italy’s first ‘erotic restaurant’, has opened in the heart of Milan’s Porta Venezia. It is the brainchild of entrepreneurs Claudia Mangano and Stefano Vaccaro who have created ‘an ode to elegance and sensuality, where every detail is designed to stimulate the senses and enchant the soul’.

Walls and furnishings with erotically inspired images, dishes with ambiguous and alluring names, even a private area with spicy games. This is Voglia Milan’s newest gastronomic experience and Italy’s first erotic restaurant.

The room features a fusion of luxury and suggestive elements, with a combination of brass, red and pink velvet; even the wallpaper has an erotic design. The custom-made plates depict elements and positions from the Kama Sutra.

The menu has been created, ‘to seduce the senses and ignite passion’, it features predomi-

Elegance and sensuality.

nantly fish and shellfish dishes and the names of the dishes are deliberately ambiguous: ‘Carne Fresca’ (fresh meat) is a beef carpaccio with cream of ginger carrot and spring onion; ‘Juicy’ a lamb loin with courgettes and honey, and ‘Meat Me’ a beef fillet with gremolada, black truffle and fondant leek.

Open Tuesday to Sunday, Voglia offers a varied live performance programme including Retro Burlesque, Old Circus, fire dancers and snake shows.

San Isidro showdown!

FORGET the fancy footwork, the talk at the recent San Isidro festival in Madrid was political, not bovine! The scrapping of a €30,000 national bullfighting prize has ruffled feathers.

The Culture Minister Ernest Urtasun believes bullfighting is on its, err, last legs, hence the left-wing government’s decision to scrap the prize. This has naturally caused a right royal rumpus among aficionados, particularly younger fans. At Las Ventas Bullring, cheers for the matadors were laced with defiance.

Urtasun defends his stance with figures - apparently, only 1.9 per cent of Spaniards attended bullfights in 2021-22. Animal rights concerns are clearly on the rise.

But wait! Enter Isabel Ayuso, the popular conservative Madrid government region’s head. She’s appointed a retired matador, Miguel Abellán, as bullfighting champion, even creating a new prize to replace the axed national one. Other regions are following suit.

Abellán argues bullfighting, an inspiration for artists like Goya and

Picasso, is an economic ‘bull by the horns’, creating 15,000 jobs in Madrid alone. Ironically, some newspapers claim these political spats have rekindled interest in bullfighting amongst the young.

So, much like the sunny and shady sides of the bullring, Spain remains divided on this age-old tradition. With 45 per cent for a ban, 24 per cent in favour and 30.3 per cent undecided, this cultural and political clash is far from over. What’s your view? Anyway, buckle up for a wild ride!

Nora Johnson’s 12 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Couple across the Street’ (www.no ra-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

Photo: Instagram / Voglia

WORKING BIKE: The New BTS_200X.

No cattle class

KEEPING your dog’s breath fresh can be a challenge, but healthy snacks can make a big difference. Carrots and apple slices are excellent choices, providing a crunchy texture that helps clean teeth while delivering essential vitamins.

Blueberries are another fantastic option, rich in antioxidants and promoting overall oral health.

Green beans are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a great snack

Fresh bites

for dental hygiene. Additionally, parsley is known for its breath-freshening properties and can be added to your dog’s meals or snacks in moderation.

For a ready-made solution, dental chews specifically designed to reduce plaque and tartar are effective and enjoyable for dogs

These natural, wholesome snacks not only contribute to fresher breath but also support your dog’s overall health and well-being.

John Smith

WE have all heard the saying ‘pigs might fly’ but now thanks to an American company BARK Air, dogs will fly.

With effect from May 23 BARK Air have started regular flights between Los Angeles, New York and London using specially chartered aircraft which

Find animal loving pet-sitters for your pets

LEAVING pets anywhere when you travel on holiday can be stressful. And many believe it is always best to keep them at home in their own surroundings, if at all possible, ideally with a caring pet lover who’ll watch over them. By joining a house-sitting platform like HouseSitMatch we can help you meet checked house and pet-sitters who will travel to your home and care for your pets for free!

Plus HouseSitMatch Saves Money because the Pet-sitting is Free!

If you use HouseSitMatch.com you find free checked pet-sitters who pay their way to stay in your home caring for your pets in your absence. It’s an arrangement facilitated by a managed online system. Our house and pet-sitting works as an exchange of services - free accommodation for free pet care!

HouseSitMatch is Safe - All Members Are Checked All members are checked for

safety, and you choose which house-sitters come to care for your pets in your absence. Your pets stay at homeSafe and Undisturbed

All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed. Choose House sitmatch.com for affordable travel, home and pet care and peace of mind for you and your pets. If you’re travelling in 2024 join now and get organised today:

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2. Choose a Premium account (£89 pa) to ensure you get help online

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How does it work? Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety, then build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your advert, respond and you choose from the applicants.

Trustpilot Testimonials – 4.9 / 5 Excellent Sherel and John looked after Harry… Sherel and John looked after Harry early April. They sent photos and mails to inform us how he was getting on. My neighbours tell us Harry had plenty of walks. Sherel and John are very nice people, and we highly recommend them as excellent sitters.

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have a capacity of 15 dogs and their human partners, although they undertake not to take bookings for more than 10 pairs.

Until now, apart from assistance dogs, if you wanted to travel with your dog, you would sit in the cabin and depending on size, your dog would either be in a bag with you or in a container in the hold.

There’s none of this with BARK Air, the dog is the guest and the human is there for the ride!BARK Air has taken the white glove experience typical of a human’s first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches - from

booking to arrival, to in-flight services and disembarkation, dogs will truly be the VIPs and treated to a positively luxurious, curated experience. They are assigned seats, only have to wear leads for take off and landing, will be offered a range of treats and the concierge is even on hand to clean up after any unfortunate accidents.

It’s not cheap with the New York to London flight costing $8,000 one way although the human travels at no extra cost, but it is easy with the flights leaving small private airfields such as Biggin Hill in the UK.

Credit: BARK Air

Meet Nicky originally from Wales who loves to travel by pet-sitting.

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Audi A3 Black - Sporting and classic saloon

By Mark Slack ROAD

TEST

THERE are few companies that build sa loon cars in the traditional sense, such is the dominance of the SUV that even es tate cars are few and far between nowa days. One company that still builds fine examples of both is Audi. Their A3 mo del is a perfect example of a compact saloon that looks both classy and stylish along with a suitably sporting drive.

However, that classy and stylish look might not be upheld to some people if you had an A3 in Python Yellow, to say it’s bright is somewhat of an understatement. That said, the bright colour with black badging does make a statement compared to the myriad of muted tones that seem to adorn most cars there days.

Facts at a Glance

• Model: Audi A3 Saloon Black 35TFSI stronic

• Engine: 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, petrol developing 150PS

• Gears: 7-speed S tronic automatic

• Price: €44,942/£38,260

• Performance: 0 – 100kph/62mph 8.4 seconds, maximum speed

The A3 saloon range starts from €35,366/£30,080 and encompasses a wide range of trim levels, body styles and equipment. Engine options of 1.5-litre in two power outputs along with a 2.0-litre diesel are offered with both manual and automatic transmission. High performance S3 and RS3 models offer larger, twin-turbo engines.

Standard equipment across the range

232kph/144mph

• Economy: 5.2l per 100km/54.3mpg

• Emissions: 133g/km

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

includes sports front seats, powered, heated and folding door mirrors, auto dimming door and rear view mirrors, tri-zone climate control, navigation, wi-

2 years for EV refund

THERE has been quite a lot of discussion in Euro Weekly News and our social media sites with regards to the introduction of electric vehicles.

Generally speaking the overall opinion of those readers who spoke to us was a definite thumbs down, but the speculation prompted one of our readers John Cavett to share his story.

He explained that “in the summer of 2021 I had decided that my trusty 22 year old Hyundai had to go and after looking around, decided that a fully electric vehicle was the way to go. More research lead me to the Dacia Spring, a new model which was eligible under MOVES.”

MOVES is a Spanish Government Scheme whereby if you buy an electric vehicle of an approved sort and scrap an old petrol/ diesel vehicle at the same time, you are eligible for a contribution from the go-

vernment of up to €7,000 and at that time a 70 per cent contribution for the purchase and installation of a home charging point.

John visited his Local Renault/Dacia Agents in Torrevieja and placing an order took delivery of the vehicle in December 2021.

“The agents took copies of all of my documents they needed and were ‘dealing’ with the MOVES claim for me but were unsure as to the timescale. I had a home charging point installed by a legal Spanish electrician, paid the bill of nearly €1,000 and took a copy of the factura to the agents.

“This is where the problems started. I was asked to provide a Tax Residency Certificate which I obtained and took a copy to the agents. All goes quiet for a while. I did get my Spanish solicitor, a real abogado, to call the lady in Madrid who was processing my claim and he seemed content

with the conversation.

“The following year I was asked to bring the car to the agents so photos could be taken at the request/ demand of the authorities together with a document for me to sign. Duly done. Quiet again. December 2023, yet another demand for photos and another form to sign. Shortly followed by demand for ‘proof of purchase’, followed shortly for a request from the agents for the matriculation document so they could copy it.

“This they had previously done but had not included a blank page of the document, quite sensibly in my view, The page in question is blank for new vehicle matriculation documents. As I understand it, these later items were from the Valencian Authorities to whom the claim was sent.

“Here I am just under two and a half years later and I still haven’t received a eurocent back!”

adaptive cruise control and matrix LED headlights.

Mention must be made of Audi’s confusing naming of engines, you don’t get the engine size but power, and then it doesn’t seem to correspond to the actual power.

For example my Black Edition 35 TFSI S tronic has an engine that develops 150PS, so where’s the 35 come in? Thankfully this apparent illogicality doesn’t translate to the car.

Priced at €44,942/£38,260 the 35 TFSI Black Edition model I was driving is adorned with more sporting looks, yet with a 0 to 100kph/62mph time of 8.4 seconds the performance isn’t exactly lacking either. On the road the Audi’s typically firm ride still manages to soak up the bumps and potholes and handling wise it’s a delight. The S tronic gearbox provides smooth and responsive changes making for an all-together enjoyable drive.

If you think being a saloon hampers the practicality, well not as much as you might imagine. A trip to the garden centre saw two largish bags of compost and a couple of planters fit in the boot. All told the A3 offers a terrific choice of sporting credentials and classic saloon style in compact form.

reless phone charging, Apple Car Play and Android Auto. Various packs provide additional choice from powered front seats and panoramic sunroof to

Los Blancos beat Die Schwarzgelben

BOTH King Felipe VI and Spanish President Pedro Sánchez took to X to congratulate Real Madrid on their success at winning the UEFA Champions League Cup.

The match took place at a crowded Wembley Stadium on the evening of Saturday June 1 and was a fairly even match in the first half, although it appeared that Borussia Dortmund had a passion that might well allow them to break through.

In the event, it wasn’t to be as Dani Carvajal and Vinícius Júnior earned Los Blancos a 2-0 win meaning that they had won the cup for the 15th time.

Both goals were gifted

to Real Madrid by defender’s mistakes but in both cases, as there was so much riding on the outcome, the goal scorers had to keep their wits about them rather than panic in front of goal.

It was a night of success for both the old guard and new guard taking centre stage as German midfielder Toni Kroos played his last match for Real Madrid and 38-year-old Luka Modrić came on as a subs-

titute whilst England’s Jude Bellingham who will be 21 on June 29 showed why he is in such demand.

Manager (Don) Carlo Ancelotti has now been involved with five European Cup wins, two with AC Milan and three with Real Madrid and he certainly has to be considered one of the greatest managers of mo-

Basketball honoured

THE unexpected silver medal collected by the Spanish men’s basketball team in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games undoubtedly promoted the sport in Spain.

Despite the fact that Russia and Hungary withdrew from the event in a tit for tat response to the USA boycott of Moscow 1980, the previous Gold Medal winners Yugoslavia did take part as did the USA which went on to take Gold.

Spain beat Yugoslavia in the semi finals but were, in turn well beaten by the USA but this shouldn’t take away any of the glory of that team.

On May 31, the surviving members of the team and relatives of those who have died were invited to La Moncloa in Madrid to receive the Gold Plate of the Royal Order of Sports Merit from President Pedro Sánchez in honour of their achievement 40 years ago.

Also invited and presented with the Grand Cross of the Royal Order of Sports Merit was female basketball player Laia Palau who is credited with fighting to see women’s basketball recognised here in Spain.

In his speech, Pedro Sánchez said “we honour two relevant sporting careers,” one individual and the other collective, “that have marked the history of Spanish sport,” but, “above all” “great people, bearers of extraordinary values.”

He also spent some time praising the persistence of Laia Palau in fighting against the “the machismo that, unfortunately, still exists in our society.”

This match brought the European football season to a close, but don’t worry football fans, the UEFA European Football Championship 2024 opens in Germany on June 14 and lasts for a month.

Mallorca Championships

THE list of players for the Mallorca Championships presented by Waterdrop has been unveiled. Toni Nadal, sports director of the ATP250 tournament, emphasised the significant presence of emerging stars and top-level players:

“Local favourite Jaume Munar is in the best moment of his career, and with Ben Shelton, we have a clear contender for the world number 1 spot. Combined with fan favourites like Gael Monfils, probably the most spectacular on the circuit, and defending champion Christopher Eubanks, entertainment and high performance are guaranteed for tennis fans around the world.”

The player line-up for the Mallorca Championships includes - Ben Shelton (USA)Ranked 15, Ugo Humbert (FRA) - Ranked 16, Adrian Mannarino (FRA) - Ranked 22.

The Mallorca Championship will take pla-

Irish record

MORE people than ever before participate in sports in Ireland, revealed the Sport Minister, Thomas Byrne in the Irish Sport Monitor 2023 report.

Byrne shared that almost two million people practise sports regularly, breaking a record in Ireland’s history.

Participation rates have grown from 40 per cent in 2021 to 47 per cent in 2023, showing a recovery from Covid-19.

The Sports Minister highlighted: “As a government, we are making real progress in delivering on our key policy targets for sport and we will continue working to ensure that every person, of every ability, can enjoy the right to participate.”

Byrne encouraged the importance of gender equality:

ce from June 22 to June 24 at the Mallorca Country Club, a premier facility created in cooperation with Wimbledon. Combining traditional lawn tennis with a modern lifestyle, this club is set to become the new hub for lawn tennis in southern Europe.

“As Sports Minister, I am particularly heartened to note the progress being made in female sports participation,” referencing the low 3 per cent of difference in participation rates, with women’s participation increasing by 6 per cent in just one

The 2023 report stated that 46 per cent women and 49 per cent men make sports a lifelong habit. Moreover, 40 per cent of people aged 35 and more play sports regularly, indicating the growth of health and fitness in Ireland, which would not have been possible without the government’s efforts.

Real Madrid were triumphant winners.

Credit: Real Madrid X

Top level tennis at the Mallorca Championship in June.