Mallorca 11 – 17 April 2024 Issue 2023

Street art live

Amy Watts

FOR the fifth consecutive year, Port Adriano is hosting the colourful street art competition which ushers in the AfterSun Fest boutique pop-up market, in which street artists paint shipping containers to win €400 in prizes.

They have carte blanche to do whatever they like, and proposals are being accepted until April 16.

The Street Art Live celebration will be held on May 17, when the chosen artists will start painting the containers, inspired by lively music and

SOME 214,451 international tourists travelled to The Balearic Islands during February, 18 per cent more than in the same period last year.

According to data published by the National Institute of Statistics (INE) on Tuesday April 9, spending by tourists was up 41.5 per cent to €260 million, which is a record high for February in the region.

Almost 60 per cent of those tourists were from Germany (124,896), versus roughly 10 per cent (22,157) from the

performances.

Guest artist Joan Aguiló will embellish three stacked containers, creating a wall of 6 x 9 metres positioned in the middle of the AfterSun Fest zone.

Once the containers are ready, the seventh edition of the colourful AfterSun Fest can begin!

The AfterSun Fest is considered the best pop-up market in the Balearic Islands. As well as the 20 shipping containers transformed by urban artists and more than 20 fashion, accessories and decor brands, there

Historical highs

United Kingdom.

will also be food trucks, music and fun activities for all the family. The Fest will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from May 25 to June 9. Saturdays from 5pm to 10pm and Sundays from 11am to 4pm and will take place in the central square of Port Adriano.

If you have a creative project, a music band, a design, decoration or accessories brand, you are an artisan or you have an eatery or food truck, sign up before April 16 at hola@after sunfest.es and join the coolest cultural festival of the year.

A total of 353,718 tourists from January to February collectively spent €434.21 million.

Each tourist spent €169 daily on average in February and stayed just over seven days. In total, people spent €1,213 each, which was almost 20 per cent more than last year.

34 evacuated in Soller

FIRE broke out in the the Béns d’Avall urbanisation in Soller during the night of Sunday April 7, destroying pine and olive groves and requiring the evacuation of 34 people.

Residents sounded the alarm at 12.30am on Saturday, having noticed the fire near the road junction between Soller and Deia.

The evacuees were lodged in a hotel in Soller.

It took almost 12 hours to bring the fire under control due to high temperatures, low humidity and strong gusts of wind.

The all-clear was given the next morning. Some people decided to return to their homes to check for damage and collect some personal belongings, before going back to the hotel.

It is usually forbidden to light fires on or within 50 metres of forest land from May 1 to October 15. The date has been brought forward to April 1 in Ibiza and Formentera this year due to climactic conditions.

StreetArt Fest.

Credit: Public domain

The fire destroyed pine and olive groves.

Credit: StreetArt Fest FB

British TV star in free concert

Amy Watts

TOWIE Star James Argent is set to wow a Palmanova crowd in a Saint George celebration concert.

British TV star from The Only Way Is Essex and weight-loss sensation, James Argent, takes centre stage for a special concert in the early evening of Friday, April 26.

Joining the charismatic Argent will be lo -

cal singer Albie Davies and the renowned DJ Richie Embleton.

The stage will be set by Palmanova’s beachfront fountain.

This free event is taking place as part of the St George celebrations in Calvia.

James Argent rose to stardom through his notable stint on the ITVBe classic The Only Way Is Essex from 2010 to 2018. With

his infectious energy and talent, he went on to become a popular figure in various reality shows, including the All-Star Family Fortunes, Sugar Free Farm and The Jump, where he showed off his sportsmanship.

A regular visitor to Mallorca, James Argent has also played at the popular Stadium63 venue. His concert on April 26 is due to start at 5pm.

Beach kiosk conflict

REGULAR visitors to Alcudia beach will be wondering what is going on with the six beach kiosks-bars on the beach.

Smoking ban

Terraces

At least one has been out of action for several years, and now all the wooden structures have been removed and the foundations are being dug deeper. On Thursday April 4, the environmental group GOB weighed in on the matter. They say the concession granted in March 2020 has expired and that an appeal they lodged against it on the grounds of unfair competition and lack of transparency has not been resolved.

THE Balearic Islands are at odds with the Spanish government over the terrace smoking ban. Resistance from various regions challenges the government’s proposed plan.

The Spanish government aims to designate terraces as smoke-free zones. On Thursday April 4, regional health authorities conveyed their stance to Spain’s Health Minister, Monica Garcia, on the proposal to outlaw smoking in bar and restaurant terraces.

Certain regions, including the Balearic Islands, oppose prohibition, favouring a voluntary approach to transform terraces into smoke-free areas. Consequently, the Balearic proposals entail offering ‘enticing tax incentives’ and quality endorsements that denote smoke-free establishments.

The Balearic government’s propositions align with those of local restaurant associations, while the Balearic delegation of the Spanish Association against Cancer advocates for a ban.

Moreover, the building work is going ahead even though deadline for start of the works set by the Ministry of Ecological Transition has not been met. The work was supposed to start by November 1, 2023, but did not begin until March 2024.

According to GOB, access regulations stipulated in the coastal legislation have not been respected. This is a ‘serious infraction’ which incurs fines of between €1,000 and €5,000 for each day that traffic is impeded.

to be designated smoke-free zones.

Orange fair

THE orange fair in Soller is taking place from April 12-28 to promote citric fruit in the Soller valley. Restaurants in Soller and the Port of Soller will be offering special menus featuring oranges.

Star chef

AS part of the St George celebrations Palmanova, chef Marc Fosh will be at Ciros restaurant from 1pm on April 23.

Crown filmed

ALSO as part of the St George celebrations, at 5pm on April 23 the Managing Director of Palma Pictures, Paul Abrey, will be explaining how the The Yellow Castle scenes in Netflix hit The Crown were filmed on the island.

Mallorca Files

THE detective series The Mallorca Files, filmed on Mallorca last summer, will debut on Amazon Prime Video on August 8. The last two series were on BBC1. The series is about two detectives, one Welsh and one German, who solve crimes on the island.

Football coach

JAVIER AGUIRRE, the RCD Mallorca coach, promised that if his team won the cup, he would make a pilgrimage to Lluc, saying: “It’s a tradition for coaches to go there after they achieve something.”

Plane surprise

IN the early hours of Friday April 5 there were two unscheduled landings at Palma airport involving commercial flights from Morocco and Namibia to Germany. Emergency services attended.

Calvia’s commitment

CALVIA Town Council launches funding initiative to manage and sterilise feral cat populations.

A total of €29,500 has been earmarked to assist associations and non-profit entities which deal with feral cat colonies in Calvia. The additional €12,000 represents a 40 per cent increase on the previous budget and is in response to the growing demand and to adhere to animal protection laws.

The aid will cover expenses related to the trapping, sterilisation, and release of feral cats, along with any necessary veterinary care. It is destined for entities recognised by

the Ministry of Agriculture.

Applications are open until April 24 and must be submitted online, with a detailed report of the proposed activities and a compliance statement.

There is a points system to select the most feasible projects which are to receive funding.

In response to feedback from Socialist Group of Calvia and the SOS Animal Foundation, among other

€13.6 million in aid

THE Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sports has announced new aid packages worth €13,632,302.

They are to nance innovative projects that implement and digitise innovative sustainable solutions in tourist establishments in the Balearic Islands.

The subsidy forms part of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan nanced by the Next Generation EU funds.

The remit is to direct the tourist sector in the Balearic Islands towards improving competitivity by developing sustainable tourism while conserving tourist resources.

This will guarantee the sustainability of cultural heritage artistic, natural and social resources which contribute in a balanced way to the economic growth and well-being in general.

The aid is divided into two programmes. The rst is centred on research projects, experimental development and drawing up viability studies. The second goes towards organisational and process innovation.

stakeholders, Calvia Town Council has also adjusted its animal protection service fees and extended exemptions for non-profit animal welfare organisations.

Love Island moves

SEASON 11 of Love Island will still be filmed on Mallorca but a move to the Algarve is on the cards.

Producers of the popular ITV2 dating show are rumoured to be looking for a change of scenery next year, with Portugal emerging as the leading contender.

They are reportedly willing to significantly increase their weekly budget to secure a novel backdrop for the popular series, which has been running for a decade. A luxurious villa in the Algarve which previously featured in a French reality series is a likely candidate.

The location of the villa in Mallorca is meant to be secret but the location in San Llorenç is now named on Google maps.

Maya Jama is poised to reclaim her role as the host for Love Island UK Season 11, set to premiere on June 3.

Meanwhile, Love Island Australia continues to make Mallorca its picturesque playground and will be filmed in the usual sprawling villa on the island for the foreseeable future.

Wealthy hoteliers

MALLORCAN Hoteliers occupy slots 1,573 and 2,436 on the Forbes Real Time Billionaires list.

The elite ranks of billionaires typically include Mallorca hoteliers Miquel Fluxà and Gabriel Escarrer Julià, who hold respectable positions.

Miquel Fluxà of Iberostar stands at 1,573 on Forbes’ Real Time Billionaires List, with a wealth of $2.1 billion. Gabriel

Escarrer, linked with Meliá Hotels International, secures spot 2,436, with a net worth of $1.2 billion.

Gabriel Escarrer founded Melia Hotels International, now one of the world’s biggest hotel chains, when he was 21. The empire now comprises more than 350 hotels and resorts in 35 countries.

Miquel Fluxà is the executive chairman of Grupo

Iberostar. The Group dates back to the 19th century when the Fluxà family started a shoe business in Mallorca, an industry which was booming at the time.

The wealthiest individual in Spain is Amancio Ortega, head of the Inditex retail empire (Zara, Pull&Bear, etc), in the 12th position globally, with an impressive fortune of $113.3 billion.

RCD Mallorca sported their new kit during the Copa del Rey nal to promote the Balearic Islands as a tourist destination.

The president of the Government, Marga Prohens, introduced the new kit in Sevilla, where the cup nal took place.

Club owner Andy Kohlberg and business CEO Alfonso Díaz also took part. Marga Prohens emphasised the important role the Mallorca football club plays as ambassadors for the Balearic Islands.

The sponsorship agreement, spanning two seasons until 2025, will see the islands’ names featured on the team’s playing kit on a rotational basis.

The club has partnered with the Balearic Islands Tourism Strategy Agency (Aetib) to promote the brand beyond the summer season.

Stricter regulations for motorhomes

Annette Christmas

A FORTHCOMING civic ordi nance in Palma, anticipated to be implemented by the end of May, will address the issue of motor home and ca ravan parking on the streets.

According to the new regula tion, parking a motorhome, camper van, or caravan in one location for more than 10 days will be prohibi ted.

The arrival date and time must be visibly displayed on the windshield, after which, the vehicle must be relocated at least 250 metres away.

Other regulations include a prohibition on leaving the engine running while stationary, meaning batteries cannot be charged, nor air-conditioning systems kept going.

stipulates that motorhomes and towed caravans cannot camp in towns except in designated areas specifically signposted by the town hall.

Penalties for violating these regulations will range from €750 to €1,500.

Caravan associations in Palma express support for the new regulations, which aim to address the housing affordability issue that has led many people to start living in motorhomes.

The updated regulations, expected to take effect by the end of May, aim to deter motorhome settlements from being formed, such as the ones in Ciudad Jardín in Palma and the Son Güells industrial

Opposition parties at the town hall are voicing criticism of the new ordinance. They argue that its emphasis on fines masks a fundamental issue overlooked by the ruling Partido Popular administration: the scarcity of affordable housing.

Soft start for Ballermann

EASTER is the traditional start to the season at the ‘Ballermann’ stretch of the S’Arenal beach resort at Balneario number six. Usually a hotspot for night life, the pre-season started without any noticeable incidents.

The pre-season soft opening attracts keen partygoers. Many establishments opened for the occasion, including the Mega Park and Bamboleo beer gardens, the Upper Bavaria and the long-established Rutschbahn (‘slide’) disco.

Big names were brought in to the Megapark to boost crowds: pop star Mickie Krause, Austrian DJ Lorenz Büffel, plus party pop singer and model Isi Glück, among others. And the Bier König had an equally attractive lineup.

Fares from Germany rose for last-minute bookings during the spring break, reflecting the pre-season popularity. One-way fares were going for €300, while rooms remained a modest €80 for a double room.

Some windy and grey weather over the holiday weekend did not spoil the party mood.

‘Ballermann’ is a composite of the Spanish word for ‘spa’ (Balneario’) and a colloquial German expression for a firearm. ‘Ballern’ has come to mean to party or make a noise.

Miguel Ferrer, president of business association

Playa de Palma, says the Easter week was different from that of other years.

One of the positive aspects was the increased police presence at the resort. For the first time ever, Local Police were reinforced in March, in time for the opening of the big attractions for nightlife in the area. This aims to prevent problems from arising in the high season.

Hotel Corazón wins hearts

THE Hotel Corazón, conceived by British fashion photographer Kate Bellm and Mexican artist Edgar Edgar López, is now open.

The name Corazón of course means ‘heart’ and the hotel is run ‘for artists and by artists’. This luxury, 15-room hotel is for a new generation of travellers.

Having lived on the island for 10 years, the couple chose their location well: on a bend in the road in the wild, olive-strewn landscape of Serra de Tramuntana between Soller and Deia, where the cliffs plunge to the sea.

The property has been lovingly restored and remodelled by local artisans, using traditional materials. Everything is designed to make guests feel at home.

Artists have always been attracted to this part of Mallorca: English poet Robert Graves in the 1950s, painter Matti Klarwein, musicians Mick Jagger and Mike Oldfield, not to mention Chopin, actors Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones, have all left their mark on local history in the region.

Jules Phillips

FOOTBALL fans from England and Scotland have been given a headsup about the potency of German beer ahead of Euro 2024. The Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) has issued official advice, urging fans to drink responsibly during their visit to the continent for the summer tournament.

The FCDO cautioned that getting too drunk and causing trouble could result in fans being banned from entering stadiums, especially considering England’s strong chances in the competition.

The advice stresses the importance of knowing one’s limits and adhering to local laws to avoid any issues.

Unlike the average strength of lager and ale in the UK, which is around 4.4 per cent, German beers tend to be stronger, ranging from 4.7 per cent to 5.4 per cent. This difference in alcohol content means

Potent beer

fans need to be extra cautious while enjoying the local brews.

In addition to responsible drinking, the FCDO also reminded fans to respect local customs and cultural sensitivities to avoid any unintended consequences. With around half a million Britons expected to travel to Germany for the tournament, it’s crucial for

everyone to be mindful of their actions.

Euro 2024 will see matches played across 10 German cities from June 14 to July 14. Scotland will kick off the tournament against hosts Germany in Munich on the opening day, while England will begin their campaign two days later against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen.

Sweden in secret

SINCE Brexit, approximately 4,000 British nationals have had to leave the EU. Sweden issued at least 1,185 people with leaving orders.

But the Brits are still living in Sweden, secretly undercover.

The Swedish Police reported 38 open cases of UK citizens with an expulsion order, 24 of these being presented by the Migration Agency.

The Police Press spokesperson, Irene Sokolov, revealed to the Press: “22 people from this category have absconded, meaning they are avoiding the authorities.”

These people are suspected to be living underground, as a result of failing to obtain a Swedish residency.

Sweden’s Migration Minister, Maria Malmer Stenergard, expressed her concern for the current laws in the country, which make leaving orders expi-

re after four years.

“This of course contributes to the fact that many individuals go underground, which as a result makes return efforts more difficult and less efficient.”

After four years of the expulsion order, these runaways will be able to reapply for residency in Sweden, in the case that they succeed in hiding.

BE CAREFUL: Beer is stronger in Germany. Credit: Creative Commons

Cooking a revolution

A COOKING school for Down’s Syndrome children has opened in a villa confiscated from the mafia.

Casa Mehari belonged to Camorra boss Nicola Imbriani but now the confiscated villa has be come a cooking school where children with Down’s Syndrome can as pire to become chefs. Be lieving in the ‘Cooking a Revolution’ project is Mi chelin-starred chef, Gen naro Esposito, who had gathered the support of other colleagues to put together the neces sary funds for the purchase of a profes sional kit chen.

The villa is in Na ples, in the south of Italy where chef Gen naro has his own res taurant, the Torre del Saracino in Vico Equen se near Sorrento. “I am

sure that this learning opportunity proposed for the children will be well received. Kitchens are places of inclusion where teamwork and mutual respect win out,”

Gennaro told Ansa.

“A professional kitchen for young people has always been one of our dreams and today we have finally realised this goal,” said Maria Trapanese, of ‘La Bottega dei Semplici Pensieri’, a non-profit association set up by family members of people with Down’s Syn-

The inauguration of the cooking school was held on Wednesday April 3 and Gennaro told those present that, “the kitchen is a magical place. A magic that, judging by the smiles and a few tears that escaped the boys at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, has already taken up residence in this place ready to christen the first chef trained at Casa Mehari.”

Sir Penguin

Anna Ellis

IN the realm of animal tales, one story stands out: the remarkable journey of Nils Olav, a penguin at the Edinburgh Zoo in Scotland.

While it’s true Norway didn’t knight a penguin, the Norwegian King’s Guard did bestow upon him a series of honorary military titles.

Nils Olav’s story began in the early 1960s at the Edinburgh Zoo, where he lived among his penguin pals.

His life changed when a Norwegian regiment visited the zoo in 1961.

The soldiers took a liking to Nils Olav, sparking a special connection.

In 1972, during another visit, the Norwegian King’s Guard named Nils Olav as their official mascot.

This marked the start of his unique military career.

Over the years, Nils Olav rose through the ranks within the Norwegian King’s Guard.

He received promotions during their visits, with ceremonies attended by royal family members and dignitaries. In 1987, he became a Corporal, and in 2001, a Sergeant.

A highlight came in 2008 when the Norwegian King’s Guard knighted Nils Olav in a grand ceremony witnessed by thousands.

SIR NILS OLAV: Now Major General.

He became Sir Nils Olav, Knight of the Norwegian King’s Guard, solidifying his status as a symbol of friendship between Norway and Scotland.

Nils Olav’s knighthood was just the beginning and he has continued to receive honours.

In 2023, Nila was promoted to Major General in the presence of 120 guardsmen.

Michelin chef Gennaro Esposito.

Photo: Facebook / Gennaro Esposito

Image: Edinburgh Zoo

Animal advocacy

VOX Pop

THE great debate, the question of whether animals are more deserving of support than humans often sparks heated discussions. While some argue that animals, being voiceless and vulnerable, deserve special attention others say that human needs should always take precedence. We took to the streets of Mallorca to talk to the Euro Weekly News readers directly.

BIANCA: “I’d help animals because the soul in an animal cannot speak for itself and is 100 per cent dependent on human beings.”

MICHAEL from Dublin on holiday said “I think we must look after animals as well as wildlife and the environment but at the moment we have to focus on more pressing issues facing humans like homelessness and poverty.”

CHRISTINA: “Humans, especially human children. Children are in the same position as animals. When it comes to drugs, alcohol, wars and so on, the main ones hurt are children, who have no say. They are the victims and when they grow up, they carry the burden.”

THIRZA: “It would be better to help humans rst. When everyone starts working on themselves, becomes humbler and begins to realise that animals have feelings too, they will be kind to animals and ask themselves why they eat meat and other questions. Charity is a cheap solution.”

JOHN from Scotland paused brie y to say “I love dogs don’t get me wrong but do we really need so many animal charities?”

CHRIS from Burnley who has a holiday home in Spain said “I have a dog but at the end of the day we have to remember that animals when it comes down to it they can fend for themselves. We are the ones who are struggling to put food on the table and pay our bills. Don’t get me wrong donate your old clothes to the dog charities and that but we have to come rst.”

RENATE: “It’s not a question of ‘either-or’. We need both.”

This collection of opinions by the international and Spanish residents and visitors of Mallorca offers a glimpse into the daily outlook of the local community, highlighting the diverse spectrum of opinions on the subject. It perhaps highlights the impact of current global issues, such as widespread conflicts and escalating inflation, which inevitably influence our current perspectives. What do you think, should animals care be prioritised, or should we put our welfare first?

Bianca Fink, visiting from Germany.

Christina Greenslade, from UK, resident of Mallorca.

Thirza Schächterle from Stuttgart, moved to Mallorca three months ago.

Renate, visiting from Germany.

The UK Spring Budget and new tax year

UK Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, delivered his Spring Budget 2024 to parliament last month. Expected to be his last budget before the General Election, it included various tax changes.

UK non-domiciled status abolished

The biggest announcement was the abolishment of the UK’s non-domiciled status. This reform will go through the consultation process, to come into effect in April 2025.

Much of this reform affects foreign nationals living in the UK and their tax liabilities. But the domicile regime also has a significant impact on an individual’s liability to UK inheritance tax.

The UK government now plans to replace these non-domiciled rules with a residence-based regime for inheritance tax. It will consult on a 10-year exemption period for new arrivals in the UK as well as a 10year ‘tail-provision’ for those who leave the UK and become non-resident.

By Cathal Rochford, Partner, Blevins Franks

Other changes

• The higher rate of capital gains tax for residential property gains reduced from 28% to 24% from the 2024/25 tax year starting on 6 April 2024.

• From 6 April the main rate of primary Class 1 National Insurance contributions has been cut from 10% to 8% and Class 4 contributions from 8% to 6%.

• From this April, new legislation restricts the scope of agricultural property relief and woodlands relief to property actually in the UK.

• The Furnished Holiday Lettings tax regime will be abolished from April 2025, eliminating the

tax advantage for landlords who let out short-term furnished holiday properties over those with long-term tenants.

• An additional Individual Savings Account (ISA) with a £5,000 allowance was announced. The government will consult on the details.

• A consultation will seek views on the implementation of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) amendments to the Common Reporting Standard (CRS2), the international tax transparency regime for the automatic exchange of information on financial accounts.

Tax allowances remain frozen

Many of the UK’s tax allowances have been frozen since April 2021, instead of increasing with inflation, including the income tax personal allowance and higher rate threshold. As announced in previous budgets, the freeze will last until April 2026 – there was nothing in this 2024 budget to change this.

Freezing allowances has a similar effect as raising taxes – hence often referred to as ‘stealth taxes’. As incomes and assets increase with inflation while allowances remain static, more people pay more tax, an effect known as ‘fiscal drag’. The impact for taxpayers increases considerably when freezing is accompanied by high inflation.

Following the March budget, the Institute for Fiscal Studies illustrated that the National Insurance cut, though very welcome, would not compensate for the impact of the other tax measures introduced over the government’s term in office.

The inheritance tax nil rate band has been frozen at £325,000 since 2008, while the residence nil rate band remains at its 2021 level until 2026. This pushes more families into the IHT net and increases their tax bill.

2023/2024 tax allowance reductions

The UK’s Autumn Statement 2022 included cuts to tax

allowances and thresholds.

The income tax additional rate threshold was reduced from £150,000 to £125,140 from April 2023. The capital gains tax annual exempt amount was halved from £12,300 to £6,000 last year and is reduced to £3,000 from 6 April 2024. The dividend allowance, previously cut from £2,000 to £1,000 is now £500.

British expatriates who retain UK assets could be impacted by some of these tax measures. Seek personalised cross-border advice for clarification and to establish how to improve your position.

The tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; an individual should take personalised advice.

Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at www. blevinsfranks.com.

Street food with soul - The Pacifico Soul Kitchen

JAVI FERRA knew he was offering something unique when he opened his restaurant and cocktail bar, The Pacifico Soul Kitchen.

Having studied catering at university, Javi went on to spend six years as maitre-d’ at a highly acclaimed restaurant before working at Canela, a pioneering street food and cocktail bar.

With his solid background in catering and many years honing his business skills, Javi knew he wanted to offer a new take on Tex-Mex. And his South American delicacies with a Californian twist are as authentic as it gets.

The Pacifico Soul Kitchen is a vibrant blend of flavours and cultures: tangy ceviche, pert tacos with fresh ingredients, succulent barbecue ribs, all manner of wings, there is something for everyone.

Javi also prides himself on his refreshing cocktail menu featuring classic sours, chilled margaritas, and a selection of tequilas. The ample terrace overlooking the beach in vites guests to while away

the balmy summer evenings in good company, perhaps even to make new friends.

And not just the enticing cocktails provide great visuals: the colourful street art murals add a perfect, authentic interactive backdrop to social media posts.

The Soul Kitchen opens its arms wide to people from all over, whether local or just passing through, thirsting for a cocktail of hankering after a tasty bite to eat.

The flawless five-star review rating reflects Javi’s attention to detail and the hard work he puts into giving his guests the

best possible experience.

Seren W enthuses: “We went here three times during our week’s holiday because we loved it so much! Amazing food, we loved the shrimp, chicken tinga and hoisin duck tacos … the velvet margarita is a must try … definitely go here if you are in the area!”

And Alw00058 from Glasgow says they are “Guaranteed the best nachos and chicken quesadillas we have had anywhere, considering our extreme love for Mexican food.”

Others praise the “lush roof terrace” and “great vibe”.

Locals and visitors, foodies and connoisseurs will all find something fresh to enjoy and a unique experience at the Pacific Soul Kitchen, the beating heart of Santa Ponça.

Address: Plaza Santa Ponça 1, local 20 (on the first floor, up the external steps), 07183 Santa Ponsa

Telephone: 691 022 372

Opening hours: 1pm until 11pm, closed on Wednesdays.

Summer star concerts

THERE is a great lineup for summer concerts at Trui Son Fusteret, the ‘bestknown venue in Mallorca’ on the Camí Vell de Bunyola.

James Blunt, of You’re Beautiful fame (2005, went to platinum), is playing Son Fusteret on July 23.

His latest album, Who We Used To Be, is James’ first studio album since the acclaimed top 3 hit Once

Upon A Mind in 2019. Tickets start at €70.20.

Simple Minds have a 40year career to look back on, as one of the most successful bands ever in the UK, selling over 60 million records worldwide. They still have a good time on tour and will be playing at Son Fusteret on July 17 at 8pm. Tickets start at €64.80.

The powerful and

much-loved voice of Sir Tom Jones is still going strong, undiminished at the age of 82. It’s not unusual to be a fan of Sexbomb

Tom Jo nes, whose other hits in clude What’s New Pussycat?

The living legend will be giving his all at Son Fuste ret on July 30. Tickets start at €70.20.

Alcudia cuttlefish fair MALLORCA

DIVE into the delicious world of the annual Alcudia Cuttlefish and Nautical Fair from April 12-13. Follow the culinary trail to ensure you don’t miss any mouthwatering dishes. There is also plenty more to visit at the fair: an exhibition, craft market, boat show, children’s parties, playground, food market and tapas tastings served in stalls under a marquee, a parade featuring the giants of Mallorca, and lively live music to keep the fun going well into the evening.

Companies in the nautical sector set up stands to showcase their products and services during the

Saturday afternoon is dedicated to various traditional activities. There will be concerts from sunset (about 9.00pm) until late.

On Sunday there are more activities and games for children, and a funfair playground.

Admission to the event is free and vouchers will be on sale to spend at the food market.

James Blunt during the opening ceremony to 2016 Invictus games in Orlando, Florida.

Braised cuttlefish.

INTERVIEW

Spain is now home

Simone Elster, originally from Germany, was pursuing her studies in hospitality management when she made the decision to relocate to La Marina, where her parents were operating a restaurant.

VIEWING it as an opportunity for an international experience and career advancement, she embraced the move. However, upon arriving in Spain, she quickly found her self falling in love with the country and its lifestyle.

Twenty-five years later, Simone remains happily settled in Spain, with no intentions of returning to Ger many.

Her life took a signifi cant turn with the arrival of her two sons, prompting her to prioritise family over her demanding career in hospitality. Transitioning to a new role at Falken Tours, she has spent the past 13 years spreading joy to others.

ly and certain cultural elements like lush green landscapes and traditional sausages, Simone expresses a deep affection for her adopted home. She highlights Spain’s warm, open minded and friendly people, the sunny climate, picturesque palm trees, delicious cuisine, and relaxed lifestyle as reasons why she considers it home.

Killing the Bear

John Smith

GOING back to Roman times, pagan festivals celebrated the New Year and this still carries on across Europe with Silio’s Vijanera being Spain’s most famous version.

Soon after Franco gained control of the country, bowing to complaints from the Catholic Church, the many Vijaneras which took place across northern Spain were banned.

Although she admits to missing aspects of Germany, such as her fami-

Reflecting on her early days in Spain, Simone recalls the initial challenges she faced, but also the immense support she received from the local community. Through dedication and immersion, she quickly mastered the Spanish language, describing it as “beautiful” and expressing her love for its elegance.

It wasn’t until 1981 that a group of residents of the town of Silio (a suburb of Moledo in Cantabria) decided that the time had come to resurrect the festival although in that first year, it took place in the summer.

From 1982 onwards it returned to the turn of the year and is celebrated on the first Sunday of January each year when at 6am youngsters go through the town ringing bells and shout out that this is a special day.

As there were still a number of people alive who

remembered the Vijanera prior to its banning, it was relatively easy for the new version to follow the traditions of the past.

Around 150 mainly male locals dress up in 80 different costumes representing animals, wood sprites (Trapajones) men, women, hun-

ters (Los Zarramaco) and many more.

The Zarramaco are dressed in sheepskins with large cowbells and it is their duty to hunt the Bear which represents evil and once it is killed so the New Year may be welcomed in with the promise of a fresh start.

Simone Elster.

Some of the 80 different characters.

Credit: Vijanera Facebook

The Bear captured by the Zarramacos. Credit: Vijanera Facebook

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Shelling out

BRITISH taxpayers will have to cover part of the expense of dismantling some of Shell’s most polluting North Sea platforms. The Ospar Convention governing marine pollution ruled that waste should be removed from the oil rigs and both the UK Treasury and Shell must pay the £400 million (€467.2 million) cost between them.

Broken toys

IMAGINARIUM, which in 2021 closed most of its toy shops in Spain, announced on Facebook that it was closing its last store in Zaragoza, leaving 101 redundant employees without compensation. The sale of shares to investors in Costa Rica could not revitalise the chain and the company went into receivership in 2022.

Chelsea pad

SHEIKH Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MbZ), the United Arab Emirates president, has paid £65 million (€75.9 million) for a mansion in exclusive Chelsea, Bloomberg revealed. Located on the site of a former telephone exchange, the transaction is one of the biggest home purchases in London since the pandemic.

Grifols mission

NACHO ABIA, a former executive with Japanese firm Olympus and a Grifols board member since February 2024, took over as chief executive of the Barcelona-based pharmaceuticals company on April 1. His initial objectives involve demonstrating greater transparency and reducing Grifols’ €9.420 billion debt.

Family affair

DAVID AL-MUDALLAL, Frasers Group’s 31-year-old chief operating officer, was promoted to its board, making him one of the youngest directors of an FTSEs 100 company. He is also dating Matilda Ashley, whose father founded the £3.6 billion (€4.2 billion) company and is a majority shareholder.

€15 billion STAT OF WEEK

in dividends is due to be paid out by 12 leading Spanish companies between April and June, with CaixaBank, Inditex and BBVA all paying more than in 2023.

Can Royal Mail deliver

ROYAL MAIL owner Distribution Services (IDS) wants regulator Ofcom to allow it to reduce second-class deliveries to two or three days a week.

That would mean cutting almost 1,000 jobs while saving an annual £300 million (€350.4 million, IDS said.

Ofcom calculated that delivering the existing universal service obligation (USO) costs between £325 million (€379.5 million) and £675 million (€788.2 million) a year. Reducing the number of delivery days could cut costs by up to £650 (€759 million), it predicted.

The Royal Mail sugges-

tion followed consultations with Ofcom on restructuring regulations in light of the declining volume of letters now sent, although IDS emphasised its commitment to continue delivering first-class letters from Monday to Saturday.

This pledge was received with relief by wee-

NATURGY shares have lost a quarter of t eir worth this year, giving the company a stock market value of €20 billion.

Nevertheless, Naturgy shareholders voted in favour of all proposals at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on April 2 although some smaller investors were dissatisfied.

“I bought at €25 and now the shares are worth €20. Their price is lower than Endesa, Iberdrola or Repsol’s,” one pointed out during the AGM.

Naturgy is Spain’s leading natural gas company and second-largest electricity supplier however its sha-

kend magazine publishers as well as greetings card manufacturers and small businesses who rely on Saturday deliveries in time for celebrations like Easter and Mother’s Day that fall on a Sunday.

Ofcom suggested a series of options for solving Royal Mail’s problems

which included reducing the service from six to five or, possibly, three days a week. Some plans would have involved changing regulations but IDS said its own scheme would not entail legislative changes and called on Ofcom to “take swift action” and introduce reforms by April 2025.

Together with its ”alternate day” plan, IDS said that first-class letters could be delivered via the Royal Mail vans that are used for parcels, while business mail including utility company bills, would become second-class mail delivered within three weekdays instead of two.

Highs and lows

Nice little earner No trains today

ALSTOM’s Litchurch Lane plant in Derby, the UK’s largest rolling stock factory, is making plans to lay off hundreds of workers.

Its final production run has been completed and with no further government orders on the horizon, the management is launching a voluntary redundancy programme.

So far, however, Alstom has not mentioned closing the Derby site although this could be ‘inevitable’ unless more orders materialise to cover the two empty years that the France-based company must fill until it starts building the HS2 trains.

SPAIN’S First and Second Division football clubs earned €4.349 billion during the 2022-2023 season. This was 11 per cent more than the previous season, which was 6.4 per cent up on 2020-2019, a survey by DBK Sectors Analysis found.

Excluding players’ transfers, last season’s income of €3.985 million was 8.7 per cent more than in 2021-2022, with €3.644 billion from the First Division and €341 million from the Second.

Real Madrid and FC Barcelona accounted for 41.4 per cent of the revenue between them, four percentage points more than during the 2021-2022 season.

Real Madrid’s €843 million – 21.1 per cent of the total - not only outstripped other Spanish clubs last season but all European clubs, including Manchester City. Barça contributed 20.2 per cent of the total with €806 million.

res began dropping in late 2023 but exclusion from the influential Morgan Stanley Capital International indexes (MSCI) in February this year was the biggest blow.

The MSCI moves multibillions in worldwide investments and Naturgy shares have fallen by 14 per cent since then.

Despite Naturgy’s lower share capital, the company made a €1.2 billion profit in 2021, €1.65 billion in 2022 and €1.98 billion in 2023.

REVOLUTION BARS shares were suspended on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) as the company tried to raise cash.

The chain, which runs more than 50 bars and clubs as well as 20 pubs across Britain, could close up to 25 per cent of its venues to prevent its collapse.

Revolution Bars lost £22.2 million (€25.9 million) in the year ending June 30, 2023, and its shares have dipped by nearly 70 per cent over the last six months.

Increased energy costs, the cost-ofliving crisis and Generation Z’s lack of interest in alcohol were responsible for the company’s problems, insiders said.

MERGED Orange and MasMovil, now called MasOrange, hosted a meeting for 3,000 employees at the WiZink Centre in Madrid on April 2.

Another 2,000 staff members attended online as chief executive Meinrad Spender and chief financial officer Ludovic Pech outlined the new company’s future plans which include making a combined profit of €490 million within four years.

MasMovil would move from Madrid’s Alcobendas to the Orange headquarters in Pozuelo’s Finca business estate.

Spenger stressed there were no plans for compulsory redundancies but the new telecommunications company might be offering early retirement and voluntary redundancy options.

First appearance Blown away

MORE than £16 billion (€18.7 billion) could be squandered this decade because Scotland produces more wind power than it can send south.

Owing to regulatory and planning delays, there is insufficient infrastructure to transmit the renewable energy from Scotland, where most is produced, to England, where it is needed. Windfarms are currently paid to switch off their turbines while gas-fired power stations in the south have to be paid extra to produce more electricity. This cost more than £700 million (€817.3 million) in 2023 alone, the Carbon Tracker thinktank said.

Sevilla in Saudi Revolution revelations

AYESA recently won a €95 million contract to design 190 water distribution and wastewater treatment plants in Saudi Arabia.

The company’s Saudi deal with the National Water Company (NWC) will incorporate ‘innovative and sustainable technologies’ for water treatment, as well as measures to reduce energy consumption.

The agreement with the Sevilla-based company is part of NWC’s commitment to spend approximately €200 billion on providing safe drinking water and effective sanitation for the entire country by 2030, explained Jose Ramon Delgado, Ayesa’s manager for Saudi Arabia.

Photo credit: CC/Naturgy Energy Group

Photo credit: CC/Kolforn

ROYAL MAIL: First-class letters could be delivered with parcels.

FRANCISCO REYNES: Naturgy chief executive announced increased profits

Fare play

SPAIN’S National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) is analysing the track access charges that train operators Renfe, Ouigo and Iryo pay state-owned infrastructure-providers

Adif and Adif AV. These charges are amongst the highest in Europe after France and the UK.

Double trouble

EVERTON FC lost £89.m (€103.9m) during the 2022-2023 season, almost double the £44.7m (€52.1m) losses of 2021-2022), which the club attributed to the suspension of sponsorship deals. The club’smajorityshareholder

Farhad Moshiri said he “remained confident” the takeover by Miami-based investment company 777 Partners would soon be completed.

On track for Egypt

BRITISH STEEL has won a contract to supply railway tracks for Egypt, the company announced.

The deal involves producing approximately 9,500 tons of rails at British Steel’s Scunthorpe works for the Green Line railway linking the Red Sea and the Mediterranean.

The route will be Egypt’s first fully-electrified mainline and freight network, with trains capable of reaching 250 kilometres per hour.

“We are delighted that British Steel will be involved in such a transforma-

tional project for Egypt,” the company’s Commercial manager Jerome Bonif said.

Dorna Sports takeover

LIBERTY MEDIA CORPORATION, which owns Formula One motor racing, now controls MotoGP after acquiring 86 per cent of Dorna Sports.

Liberty Media Corporation’s president and chief executive Greg Maffei confirmed motorsport’s most important corporate transaction for many years in a €4.2 billion deal on April 1. The remaining 14 per cent stake remains in the hands of Madrid-based

Dorna Sports’ management.

The deal, due to be officially concluded in late 2024, also includes exclusive rights to Moto2 and Moto3 races as well as the FIM Enel MotoE World Championship for electric bikes.

Carmelo Ezpeleta remains as Dorna’s chief executive and continues at the head of the company, which will maintain its headquarters in Madrid.

Without disclosing the sums involved, he revealed that supplying rails for the 660-kilometre network would involve “multimillions.”

The April 2 announcement followed February 2024’s protests over future job cuts in Scunthorpe if blast furnaces were closed and replaced with an environmentally-acceptable electric arc furnace in line with British Steel’s objectives of creating ‘a green and sustainable company’.

These plans would put up to 2,000 people out of work, the unions warned.

Meanwhile, owners China’s Jingye Group maintained earlier that it had invested £330 million (€385.3 million) in steelmaking in the UK.

The first shipment of track will be sent from Britain to Alexandria in North Egypt in April with a further delivery scheduled for June.

Office jobs

BIG FOUR accountant

Deloitte is renting three floors of a Farringdon block near its New Street Square headquarters, two years after reducing its London office space by 250,000 square feet (23,226 square metres). This helped to reduce overheads during the pandemic as employees worked from home, although more are beginning to return to the office for team projects.

Flight plan

CONSTRUCTION starts in two years’ time on what will be one of the biggest plants in Europe for generating renewable kerosene (SAF) from hydrogen and carbon dioxide. Once in full production, the €780 million site in Garay (Soria) is expected to produce an annual 60,000 tons of kerosene, enough for 12,000 flights between Madrid and Palma de Mallorca.

Photo credit: CC/Geograph Britain and Ireland

SCUNTHORPE WORKS: British Steel plans blast furnace closures.

It’s all a charade

‘POLITICIANS come and go but governments go on forever’. Didn’t this quote hit the nail squarely on the appendage? As I have observed in this blurb on a number of occasions, the whole political masquerade is merely an illusion. Because we freely elect our politicians, we are under the almost laughable impression that we also in some way control our own future.

Ha! Pure naïve bunkham. We are all players in a subversive system implemented by the shadowy billionaires that are our true masters. A preconceived plan to keep us all happy and firmly convinced that our democracy and ‘freedom’ are so important to us they are ultimately worth dying for. The truth is the more chaotic and precarious our societies become, the more the money manipulators like it. Keeps us all nicely occupied ya see.

I was recently speaking to a member of the Home Office and asked him if a newly elected government made

THE difference between Webbs and other removals firms is their honesty, reliability and human touch. Webbs does not try to sweet talk clients or mislead them, they tell it how it is.

Webbs removals was founded in 1985 by Bill Webb in Saint Peters, Broadstairs in Kent. The recession that began in the mid80s was an impulse to reorient the company and start operating in Europe, eventually absorbing a small business operation based in the Baleares.

After that, Webbs removals just grew and grew, because most local firms could not compare. A Spanish firm was set up in 2001, and since 2003 the main company has been Webbs International Removals SL and holds all the necessary licences for international transportation.

Webbs has 30 plus vehicles and three depots, with around 15 to 20 staff overall, including two ladies in the UK office and two more in the Mallorca office, as well as the lads.

One of the big differences with Webbs is the depots at ei-

any difference to the workings of his department. With a barely detectable smirk he told me that, apart from a few small ‘irritations’ at the outset nothing changes at all, the department simply carries on just as before. In fact, he went on to say that many new politicians are so inexperienced, they actually ask the department to advise them on what procedures they should follow. This is precisely what happens with the world’s faceless financiers; they simply carry on business as usual, irrespective of governments or politicians. And they all cover each other’s backs.

Remember that Khashoggi, embassy murder affair a few years back? Did you honestly think the King of Saudi Arabia, (Family worth an estimated $2.4 trillion!) would have his position threatened in any way by the actions of these assassins; even though, in my opinion, he almost certainly instigated the whole unsavoury affair himself? Why not? Because he’s in league with the true rulers of the planet - as any leader of that oil-soaked country of corruption will always be. Murder means nothing to them.

These people are a law unto themselves, an elite ‘club’ of secrecy and subterfuge who don’t care what government or dictator happens to be in power, just as long as they don’t threaten their own exalted positions. Among the many disruptions to society these faceless few revel in war, it’s a wonderful source of income and keeps the participants thoroughly occupied and out of their hair. They are no doubt also revelling in all the Mideast war and unrest, which is also keeping enormous numbers of the peasants extremely busy.

It’s all a charade and they the all-powerful puppet masters. Their aim is to make us fear life itself. They want us to hate ‘the other’. They love confusion. They want us to practise aggression. They seek to divide us all. With division comes chaos and chaos is their greatest ally. And there ain’t a darn thing either you or I can do about it.

On a lighter note ra tah! I see the pests of summer are already arriving. Flies, mosquitos, tics, cyclists, etc!

Keep the faith

Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

Feathered fiasco

A BIRD caused disruption at Brighton train station on April 2 by wandering onto the tracks during rush hour.

Thameslink had to shut down three platforms around 7.00pm to safely remove the bird, which was identified as a herring gull.

This affected services such as the Brighton to London route and the Gatwick Express, causing delays until around 8.20pm.

Thameslink advised passengers to leave 20 minutes earlier for their journeys and to check for updates on departures.

Some passengers joked about the situation being an April Fool’s prank or questioned if herring gulls are truly endangered.

One traveller expressed frustration over cancellations and feeling stranded in bad weather.

Thameslink later apologised for the inconvenience and reassured passengers that the bird was removed safely, even sharing a picture of the young gull.

Despite being common in coastal areas, herring gulls have been on a conservation watchlist since 2009 due to declining populations.

This status indicates increasing concern for their conservation, as determined by leading bird conservation organisations in the UK.

You get no bull out of Bill

ther end where you can talk to a human being. So many other companies are purely Internet based and ‘you don’t know what you’re getting’.

Bill says the best thing about his business is their staff: “You are only really as good as your frontline staff and we’re really, really good, I mean the office girls are fantastic.”

Since Brexit, Bill has helped over 3,000 households relocate from Mallorca, not just to the UK but also to Portugal from mainland France. He notes that plenty of people are still moving to

Mallorca from the UK. The top shelf clients are still relocating here, and Bill is very grateful for that business, and feels very fortunate to have a lot to do with the yachting side.

Other clients are moving to the mainland, which Bill says is fine if you don’t have to work. While property prices can be tempting, job competition is a lot higher and wages are lower. Webbs is known for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. So how do they do it?

The trucks leave the UK Sunday night/Monday morning, clear cus toms on Tues day at the border, and come to the Mallorca depot on Wednesday. Webbs has depots both ends and a trailer spot. The trailer is unloaded and the already preloaded trailer here in Mallorca taken back. This efficiency means they can move 200 cubic metres from the UK to Mallorca and back in one standard working week, with one driver.

“That is unbeatable” says Bill, “there’s no company who can match us for doing what we do.”

“We’ve got a service for everybody and believe me, we have moved some of the most notable people on this island” Bill laughs, “and a few of them off again. And that’s another chapter in my book.”

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

Image: Thameslink

• News Across The Regions •

Costa del Sol Restrictions more flexible?

THE rains that fell during Easter Week have brought good news to Andalucia. The Concepción reservoir has gained 10 cubic hectometres of water, and the level now exceeds 66 per cent, the highest since July 2023.

The Regional Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, headed by Carmen Crespo, confirmed the region will reduce the current restrictions on average per capita water consumption, irrigation in the countryside and use in the industrial sector.

According to the councillor, thanks to the intense rainfall, the summer is expected to have “more capacity and possibilities,” which is why it might be possible to make the restrictions more flexible.

The committee will now analyse whether or not to relax the ban on filling private swimming pools for the summer.

Axarquia

Nerja uncovered

IN a quest to unearth the hidden treasures of Nerja, one family from a well-known social media account made up of three influencer families from Navarra, collectively amassing over 68,000 followers on Instagram under the alias ‘Se Me Cae la Casa Encima,’ (The house is falling on me) enjoyed an expedition through the town. Specialising in chronicling travels, accommodations, and experiences across Spain, these families are celebrated for their insightful content.

One of these families graced Nerja’s shores, getting to know the stunning coastal town. Welcomed by Tourism councillor Ana María Muñoz at the local Tourist Office, they were warmly thanked for selecting Nerja as their destination. This visit not only showcases Nerja’s attraction but also underscores the growing influence of social media in shaping travel preferences.

Costa Blanca South Shipmates’ support

THE shipmates of the Torrevieja Branch of the Royal Naval Association (RNATB) make donations to different charities each year.

This year one of the shipmates’ four chosen charities to receive a donation was the Movers & Shakers.

The Association of Movers & Shakers (AMS) is a charity supporting people with five neurological diseases and their families.

The local Almoradi-based group working across the Costa Blanca meet regularly each Friday.

AMS also have a Facebook page and their website amscb.org.es has more details of the five diseases including Huntington’s, Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis.

RNATB shipmate Brenda Maw nominated the Movers & Shakers as one of the charities for this year and was at the presentation of the donation from RNATB Treasurer, Carl Louden to AMS President, Marion Smith.

Costa Blanca North The Ghost Pipers

THE Ghost Pipers of the Somme marched the streets of Denia to the sound of live bagpipes and the colours of the Scottish flag, commemorating their ancestors lost to the First World War.

On April 5, the centre of Denia united the community in the streets where native music, costumes and flags were exhibited to honour the soldiers who lost their lives in the Battle of the Somme during the First World War.

With the collaboration of Denia’s Culture Department and the Denia-Fane Ouverture Francophone Association, the day was marked to remember some of the bravest Scottish and Irish soldiers who fought in the Battle of the Somme and who after the war had to rebuild their lives in France.

Traditional Irish hymns swayed the town, performed live by the French band made up of descendants of the courageous Scottish and Irish soldiers.

Almeria Saving lives

A MAN from Almeria has saved five lives by donating his organs, as reported by Torrecardenas University Hospital. The generous act of his family made it possible for different organs and tissues to be transplanted, with teams from various countries and provinces collaborating in the process.

The hospital management expressed gratitude towards the donor’s family for their solidarity during such a difficult time. They also thanked the professionals involved in the transplant procedures, both within the hospital and those from other parts of Spain.

Transplant coordinators provide families with information and support during the grieving process, emphasising the positive impact of organ donation on the lives of others. Increasingly, families are volunteering to donate organs and tissues upon learning of critical illnesses with poor prognoses.

Costa Calida Skydive success

IN a remarkable display of courage and compassion, Mark Wilson soared through the skies in support of MABS Cancer Support Fundación. Wilson’s daring skydive served as a fundraiser for the organisation, which provides crucial assistance to people suffering from cancer.

The event garnered widespread praise, with supporters expressing immense pride in Wilson’s accomplishment.

MABS Cancer Support Fundación is dedicated to offering practical aid and solace to those impacted by cancer in Spain. Their unwavering commitment revolves around the mantra of ‘To care, comfort, and counsel people affected by cancer.’

MABS emphasises that their services are available to those directly diagnosed with cancer, as well as people affected by a loved one’s diagnosis or loss.

Eco chic nails

ACHIEVING strong, resilient nails doesn’t always require harsh chemicals or artificial treatments.

Embracing organic methods can promote nail health while minimising exposure to potentially harmful ingredients.

Start by nourishing your nails from the inside out with a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like biotin, vitamin E, and protein. Incorporate foods like nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and lean meats to support nail growth and strength.

Externally, opt for organic oils like olive oil or coconut oil to moisturise and condition your nails and cuticles. Regular-

doing household chores and avoiding harsh chemicals. By prioritising natural nail care prac-

strong, beautiful nails without compromising your health or the environment.

Effortless style

AS we usher in spring, the modern pompadour emerges as the hairstyle of choice for fashion-forward men. This contemporary twist on a classic look combines sleek sophistication with effortless style, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Characterised by its voluminous top and neatly tapered sides, the modern pompadour offers a fresh take on traditional barbering techniques. With its ability to be tailored to suit individual preferences, from subtle to bold variations, this hairstyle is versatile enough to complement any face shape or hair texture.

Whether styled with a matte finish for a casual daytime look or slicked back for a more polished appearance, the modern pompadour adds an element of refinement and confidence to any ensemble. Embrace this timeless trend and elevate your spring style with the modern pompadour.

PETS

Dog talk

Jules Phillips

NEW research suggests that dogs are not only clever enough to follow simple commands like “sit” and “stay”, but they can also understand words related to their favourite toys, such as “fetch the ball”.

A study conducted in Hungary discovered that dogs could learn to link words with specific objects, a skill called referential understanding. This means that when dogs hear the name of an object, they can conjure up a mental image of it in their minds. This suggests a deeper level of language comprehension than previously thought possible for dogs, similar to how humans understand language.

The research, which was published in the science journal ‘Current Biology’ and involved 18 dogs, used a non-invasive EEG procedure to measure

Dogs understand more than you think.

brain activity. Dog owners played audio clips saying the names of their dog’s toys, then showed the corresponding objects. The study found that dogs reacted differently in their brain patterns when the object matched the word compared to when it didn’t, indicating an understanding of the words. While some experts praised the study, others remain sceptical. Professor Clive Wynne from Arizona State University believes the study only demonstrates dogs’ ability to respond to stimuli, rather than truly understanding the meaning of specific words.

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ON Friday, March 29, the new law imposes strict regulations on the ownership of certain wild and exotic animals. However, some have criticised the shortage of centres able to accommodate these pets.

Individuals who possess pets that are now deemed illegal, face a crucial dead-

Animal welfare law

line. They are required to report ownership to the authorities or face penalties.

Such pets include venomous creatures like scorpions, reptiles weighing over two kilos such as iguanas, any primate species, and wild mammals

heavier than five kilos such as the Vietnamese pig. The legislation not only bans the captivity of wild animals and their use in entertainment but also ends a six-month grace period for circuses to comply.

The law’s reach extends beyond public entertainment, impacting private pet owners who now confront the end of a grace period to declare their animals.

Those found guilty of illegal possession or trafficking of protected or banned species could incur fines up to €30,000 for the most severe breaches, €2,000 for significant infractions, and up to €500 for minor offences.

Despite the law’s intent, there’s a growing chorus of concern over its practical implications. Many have highlighted a lack of preparedness for the law’s consequences. They argue that there has been no infrastructure brought in to house the potential influx of animals.

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Paris Olympics news

IN what is denied as being a U-Turn, the British government has reportedly written to the Presidents of the Olympic and Paralympic Committees given an unexpected approval.

Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2023 which was supported by Belarus, the then (and still) Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lucy Frazer was quoted as saying that “any plans to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate in Paris are not credible.”

This followed a decision announced by the two Committees that both countries would be banned from competing in Paris in 2024 and this in turn was supported by a 36 country summit chaired by Lucy Frazer.

Now however the Olympic Committees have had a change of

heart and are prepared to allow athletes from Belarus and Russia to compete in Paris provided that they are not part of any team and should they win medals their national anthems would not be played, no flags would be raised and their kit would not bear any country emblems.

In addition, they must not have publicly supported the invasion nor could they be in any way associated with the military of either country.

With the impositions of these restrictions, the UK government has confirmed that it supports the decision so, some athletes from the two countries may appear in the 2024 Olympics which run from July 26 to August 11 and the Paralympics which take place from August 28 until September 8.

Smiles and tears at Copa del Rey final

Sven Larson

OPTIMISM soared at the 20-minute mark in the final of the Copa del Rey when a long-range shot by Mallorca’s Vedat Muri- qi gave Mallorca their first

nalty area before Dani Rodríguez shot it in.

Bilbao then relentlessly went on the attack, but Mallorcan goalkeeper Dominik Greif thwarted numerous attempts to score.

llorcan team’s hard work defeating the onslaught of Athletic Bilbao throughout the match ultimately unravelled during the penalty shootout.

Controversial number withdrawn

SPORTS clothes manufacturer Adidas has made the decision to withdraw a particular numbered shirt from Germany’s national side.

The decision was announced on Monday, April 1, when Adidas, the German sports clothing giant, decided to remove and block the sale of the German national football team’s shirt bearing the number 44 on their online store.

The move came after the design, earmarked for EURO 2024, sparked an uproar over its perceived resemblance to the Nazi ‘SS’ symbol, a principal organization under Hitler’s regime responsible for many of the atrocities of the Second World War.

The decision underscores Adidas’ commitment to inclusivity and its firm stance against any form of hate.

Adidas reacted swiftly to feedback from the public and various communi ties online. The specific style of the numeral ‘four’, especially when doubled to ‘44’, bore an uncomfortable similarity to the insignia used by the Nazi SS units, entities infamous for their roles in operating concentration and death camps.

Oliver Bruggen, a spokesperson for Adidas, made it clear that the resemblance was completely unintended, reinforcing the company’s dedication to fighting ‘xenophobia, anti-Semitism, violence and hatred in every form’.

The German Football Federation (DFB) alongside Adidas, took the criticisms seriously, despite none of the parties involved recognising the controversial similarity during the design process.

A statement from the DFB highlighted their routine process of reviewing numbers from 0-9 and submitting 1-26 to UEFA for approval, admitting that the similarity was overlooked.

Mallorca scored two penalties but let in four shots by opponents Athletic Bilbao, whereas opposing goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala managed to fend off the Mallorca penalty shots.

Athletic Bilbao thus scored a perfect four in a row to win 2-1.

Mallorcan fans felt that it was frustrating to come so close to such an important victory only to lose on penalties, but that Mallorca had played magnificently.

In a post-match interview with IB3 mid-fielder Sergi Darder said, with tears in his eyes, that perhaps in years, months or weeks to come we would recall the day’s events with more joy but that “right now it is very complicated and hard.”

Trainer Javier Javier Aguirre emphasised that the team is “beyond reproach” and that he was “very proud and glad to be here” at the final.

Mallorca last won the cup in 2003.

Superstitions unveiled

IT turns out that superstition is alive and well among sports enthusiasts, with four out of 10 admitting to having their own rituals to boost their team’s chances of winning.

A study involving 2,000 sports viewers revealed that 25 per cent engage in pre-game rituals, such as sitting in the same spot on the sofa or kissing their team’s badge, to bring good luck.

Some fans take it even further, avoiding watching games with certain people they consider unlucky, or even refrai ning from washing if their team is winning during tournaments.

When attending live games, 22 per cent stick to a “lucky” seat in the sta dium, and an equal percen tage won’t

wash a “lucky” clothing item.

Some even turn to prayer for their team’s success.

Overall, 58 per cent of respondents believe in both good and bad luck, with many attributing their team’s fortunes to superstition.

Over half have had a gut feeling about their team’s success in the past, with one in three always trusting their instincts about game outcomes.

The spokesman for OLBG. com, which conducted the research, noted that sports fans can sometimes become overconfident in their teams, relying on superstition to secure a win.

Vedat Muriqi fends off Oscar de Marcos.

Credit: RCD Mallorca