Property Supplement CBN 23 – 29 May 2024 Issue 2029

Costa Blanca North - Issue No. 2029

EURO WEEKL Y YOUR PAPER IS INSIDE

23 - 29 May 2024

Golden Leaves International Understanding Direct Cremation

Why Should I Get a Direct Cremation Plan?

An unattended Direct cremation is for people not wanting to have the fuss and expense of a traditional funeral. It is a low-cost simple option that enables your family to celebrate your life away from the more traditional locations of church and crematorium.

The direct cremation plan allows you to lock in the cost at today’s prices rather than run the risk paying increased fees in the future.

These are the benefits of a direct cremation and a solution to relieve financial and emotional burden from your loved ones;

• Buying a direct cremation will protect your family against rising funeral costs.

• A Golden Leaves direct cremation funeral plan fixes the price at the time of the plan starting. You will never have to pay more.

• Our Plan is fully portable. So if you move anywhere in Spain (including Balearics and Canaries) or back to the UK for that matter, your plan comes with you.

• We also offer flexible payment options to suit most budgets.

• Significant amount of pressure and stress is removed from your families’ shoulders, as everything has been organised already. To activate the plan its just one phone call and they can concentrate on the more important thing… remembering you.

• Your money is held in a trust fund, it’s called the Golden Leaves Trust Fund so you have the peace of mind knowing its protected and your funeral is carried out.

• The company is regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority

What is a Direct ‘Unattended’ Cremation?

Direct cremation can be a much more affordable option than a traditional funeral. Golden Leaves direct cremation plan is from €2,489.

The Golden Leaves fully guaranteed direct cremation plan includes the following:

• Fully guaranteed funeral director costs

• Fully guaranteed Crematorium costs

• 24 hours mortuary expenses in Spain

• You’re covered 24 hours 365 days a year in Spain (from your initial call)

• Ashes returned to family or friends in Spain or scattered at crematorium

• From as little as €37.42 per month*

What is not included?

>Burial of the deceased

>Funeral Service

>Mortuary expenses for more than 24 hours.

>Contribution to repatriation of ashes.

Whether paid in a single payment or over 12 months instalments*, the total cost for the plan is just €2,489. You can pay in instalments over 12 to 96 months. If you pay an €100 deposit, the monthly payments are €37.42 per month over 96 months, with a total of €3,632.17 to pay. *Instalment options are not available if you have been advised by a doctor of a condition or illness that will cause death within 12 months of applying for a plan. Cover for accidental death only in the first 12 months of your plan.

Of course, Direct Cremation doesn’t suit everyone. Some of us would rather have a larger and fully attended traditional style of funeral, which is why Golden Leaves range of plans has been built to offer alternative options. Whatever you wish for your final farewell, Golden Leaves will be able to help you.

Since pre-paid funeral planning was introduced to the UK in 1984, Golden Leaves Ltd has been at the forefront of providers. We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and as such, your purchases are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. We’d like you to be assured that with Golden Leaves, your arrangements are secure. Every funeral director appointed to provide services for a Golden Leaves Plan are carefully selected for their standards of professionalism, including a demonstration of outstanding service records in their local community.

Golden Leaves’ current leadership too, Steve Rowland Chair and Barry Floyd CEO both have extensive histories and impeccable reputations within the funeral planning sector. Both have served terms on the board of the United Kingdom’s established funeral plan national associations, including the original national self regulatory body, the Funeral Planning Authority. More recently they have both served as directors on the executive of the newly formed National Association of Funeral Plan Providers.

In addition, our founder, Tony Rowland, was honoured with an MBE for his dedication to the funeral industry spanning over 60 years.

We have many years of experience in helping families at one of the worst times of their life. If you would like to get some advice on how you can protect your family from the emotional and financial stress of a funeral, or if you would just like to talk more broadly about the funeral system here in Spain, please contact us on the details below.

Barry Floyd CEO

An inspirational journey

THIRTY women rowed 32 kilometres from Benidorm through to Venice, raising more than €6,000 to aid cancer patients.

The Anemona Marina Baixa rowing team, the Self-Help Group for Women A ected by Breast and Gynecological Cancer of Benidorm and the region, undertook a rowing challenge starting from Benidorm and ending in Venice.

The project took a month to complete, as the women travelled through Italy, joined by the Benidorm Nautical Club, the

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Costa Blanca North • Issue No. 2029 • 23 - 29 May 2024 FREE

ILMAINEN

Anemona rowing team.

Credit: Benidorm Council

25th Anniversary Leaving a mark

from Front page

Credit: Calpe Counci

A QUARTER of a century has passed since the foundation of Jaume Pastor i Fluixa; on May 24, the institution will celebrate its heritage at Calpe’s House of Culture.

Calpe Town Council has prepared a ‘broad and ambitious’ programme which will be running until the end of 2024 in honour of the 25th anniversary of the cultural institution.

Dance, theatre, circus, melodies from jazz to opera and flamenco, the programme aims to unite Calpe’s citizens and visitors to honour the town’s rich culture.

The opening day on May 24 will feature the singer Pasion Vega with her performance of Lorca Sonoro; a tribute to the legendary poet and dramatist.

Other notable performances include the award-winning dancer Asun Noales with Clandestino, the Armenian pianist, Sofya Melikyan and the Marina Alta Orchestra.

Calpe’s mayor, Ana Sala, emphasised that by ensuring a free entry to the House of Culture during the programme, “there is no excuse not to come to the House of Culture”; the art and culture of the municipality will be accessible to all.

As a finale, a gala in honour of the 25th anniversary will be held at the House of Culture on November 30.

mayor Ana Pellicer and the councillors of Equality and Sports, Angela Zaragozi and Javier Jorda.

“Multitudinous and memorable,” the journey raised funds for Geicam, a breast cancer research group consisting of more than 900 researchers who work across 200 centres in Spain.

Each of the participants voluntarily donated a minimum of €100, and Anemona as a group, contributed €6,000 to support the battles of cancer patients.

Not only has their inspirational journey left a mark in medical advancements but it also contributed to ecological sustainability, coinciding with the Vogalonga 2024 route, raising awareness of the negative impact of motor boats.

Casa de Cultura Calpe.

Best business

LA NUCIA´S Auditorium hosted the 17th Mediterranean Business Relations Awards to celebrate the most experienced and demanded businesses of the region. Some 250 business representatives attended from the Alicante Province, Italy and Ukraine.

Javea fire

THIRTY vehicles were affected by a fire in Javea’s Port. The Alicante Provincial Firefighters Consortium received a call about the fire on May 18 at 13.04. Seven cars burned entirely and 14 were affected.

Air quality

ALTEA installed PSTD devices in strategic areas of the town to monitor air quality. The sensors track CO2 emissions and measure air quality and noise pollution levels, as part of the development of Altea’s Destination Tourism Sustainability Plan.

Beach hygiene

TWO sanitary modules of public sinks and toilets were installed in Javea’s Granadella Beach for the summer season. The council is currently developing a plan to expand the installation to all of the municipal beaches.

Alfas del Pi

WITH a population made up 50 per cent by foreigners, Alfas del Pi is one of the most international and culturally wealthy towns between Benidorm and Altea.

Languages from across the globe are heard on the streets of Alfas every day, especially Norwegian. Alfas del Pi’s residents include 11 per cent of Norwegians, who cherish the town for its welcoming atmosphere and beautiful sights.

Alongside the Norwegian school Norske Skole Costa Blanca, there are numerous Nordic and international restaurants that re ect the diverse and vibrant culture of Alfas.

man Villa l’Albir, which roots date back to Roman times, is an archaeological site catalogued by the Generalitat Valenciana as an Asset of Local Re-

Police selection

THE Local Police of Alfas del Pi currently consists of 50 o cers who ensure the safety of the town’s citizens. But how is the pro ciency of the police o cers ensured?

The police personnel in Alfas del Pi undergo an extensive selection process.

“We improve the working conditions of our sta and at the same time we increase resources to o er quality service to the entire community,” reported the Human Resources Councilor, Loli Albero.

Before joining the Police, the applicants undergo tness tests; these were recently

‘ALFAS DEL PI for peace and in memory of the victims of terrorism’.

On May 16, Alfas del Pi hosted a tribute to the International Day of Coexistence in Peace in the Johan Galtung Park.

By Agustin Ibarolla’s ve-metre high Paraboloid sculpture, the town’s mayor, Vicente Arques, the PSOE and the Popular Party united to commemorate those lost to acts of violence.

and seventh

held at the Municipal Sports Centre and in the Sports Centre of La Nucia.

According to the Personnel Councillor, 160 applicants were invited to carry out the tests, with 95 attending and 72 achieving to pass.

After the examination, the applicants undertake a psychotechnical aptitude test, which will take place soon. “The tests have been held without any problems and the Personnel Area is doing a magni cent job,” said the councillor for Human Resources about the latest process.

Beach library

THE old ‘biblioplaya’ on Albir’s beach will undergo renovation to improve beach facilities in the area.

The municipality is contributing €48,381 to the development of the new ‘biblioplaya’, to be renovated within two weeks. The new facility will be installed at the beginning of June.

The biblioplaya, as reported by the Urban Planning councilor, Toni Such, was “almost two decades old,” and re-

quired developments which will include not only library services but also “the posts for lifeguards and the service point for people with reduced mobility,” as stated by Such.

He reinforced that due to the “number of people who pass through these facilities during the summer,” the biblioplaya is not only used as a library but also as a relaxing point, children’s location and a snack bar.

With increasing tourism rates, Alfas Council is expecting a large number of visitors this summer, hence the beach will be in its best ever condition by the beginning of summer.

centuries.

Alfas del Pi became an independent municipality in 1836, and its value of freedom and dignity is still visible today in the old pine tree in the Plaza Mayor.

What used to be Alfas de Popol in the name of the former mayor became Alfas del Pi in 1902, relating to the Arabic meaning of ‘Alfas’: ‘fruitful lands’, and ‘pi’ in reference to the Spanish pine tree ‘pino’.

It is nature that reigns supreme in Alfas, with breathtaking views of the sea, lush green spaces and local produce such as almonds, which are considered the best in the Valencian Region.

“Remember that life is the most precious gift and freedom in peace cannot be skewed through violence. Paraboloid Sculpture is between the trees but respecting the space and light because trees are sacred, and we must respect the space,” explained Ibarolla during his lifetime about the sculpture and in Alfas it represents exactly that respect. It was held at the park named in honour of the activist, Johan Galtung, remembering his e orts to build worldwide peace. The council of Alfas del Pi pays this tribute every year on May 16 to remind its citizens of the importance of solidarity, inclusion and care; the core values of the local community.

levance, showcasing the historical heritage from the third

Faro de l’Albir.

Vote in La Nucia

PLACE your vote in the EU elections at La Nucia; 22 polling stations and 14 electoral colleges will be in place across the town.

To ensure equal ac-

cess to voting, La Nucia Council is setting up polling stations across the municipality with the 14 electoral colleges consisting of La Nucia University Headquarters, Youth Centre, Colegio P. Sant Rafel, Salon Social El Cirer, Centro Social Convent de Les Monges, C. Social Nucia Park, C. Social Nou Espai, CS Copet. CS Montecasino. Caravana Library, CS Pinar de Garaita, CS Kristal, CS Tossal and CS Bello Horizonte.

Nature’s routes

BENISSA Council took another step to foster the town’s environment by approving a project to create 12 new sporting routes through nature.

The experience of being surrounded by breathtaking views and well-cultivated landscapes is characteristic to Benissa and continues to attract both tourists and residents.

In these colleges, 22 polling stations will be installed, where the La Nucia citizens will be able to voice their decisions for the EU elections. The voting will take place on June 9.

This spring the council introduced 12 new sporting routes that guide the visitors through the town’s memorable landscapes.

In unity with nature, the visitors of Benissa will be able to take three equestrian itineraries, including a low-difficulty route of 8.5 kilometres at Raco del Caribou, and medium-difficulty routes of 13 kilometres at Binyent-Rapita and Benissa-Lliber.

Renowned for cycling, Benissa is expanding its

mountain cycling routes with medium difficulty itineraries in Benissa-Font de la Mata and Moli del Quisi-Pedramala, as well as the more challenging routes in Benissa-Lleus-Olta and Benissa-Bernia.

The cycling mountain ports will be located at Puerto de Bernia and Pedramala Port.

For trial runners, a beginners’ route will be in place in PR-CV 7 Bernia and two medium-difficulty routes in PR-CV

340 Olta and Trail Running Els Tossals.

Funded 100 per cent by the EU Next Generation, the implementation of the new routes follows the municipal values of promoting a healthy lifestyle and caring for the environment.

€1 million aid

Anna Akopyan CALPE Council launched a new Local Employment Plan on Friday May 17, allocating €1 million to the development of the municipal job sector.

Applications can now be submitted to access work opportunities through the Public Employment Service.

Forty-seven new positions are now available, including ve jobs for administrative assistance, one library assistance, 15 environmental guard positions, two operators of the animal collection service, eight labourer positions, six cleaning sta positions as well as six janitors at the Sports Centre, one janitor at schools and three janitors at the House of Culture.

All the applicants must be at least 16 years old, registered in Calpe and have been registered in the public employment service for at least three months. Entries are open until May 31 through the town hall. In 2023, the Local Employment Plan helped 65 people nd a job in Calpe and with each year it continues to create the bridge from emoployeees to employers and improve the lives of local citizens.

La Nucia Council discussing voting.

Cycling in Benissa.

Credit:

La Nucia Council

Credit: Ajuntament de Benissa, Facebook

A MUNICIPALITY with Roman roots, an international community and breathtaking nature, Alfas del Pi is full of mustsee destinations; these are some of them.

The Roman Villa

The unique museum dates back to the late imperial period.

It is free and open every day except Mondays, 10am-1pm and until 2pm on the weekends.

At Boulevard de los Musicos 28, Playa Albir, Alfas del Pi.

The Serra Gelada Park

The most visited park in the Valencian Region, it rises from the plain of Alfas and Benidorm, with a 300-metre-high

Must-see in Alfas

Klein-Schreuder Sculpture Garden

Klein-Schreuder Sculpture Garden.

view of the nearing municipalities.

Little Hollywood

The Paseo de Las Estrellas of Alfas’ own little

Credit: Tracy Ann Blevins

Hollywood, paying tribute to renowned Spanish film stars and directors. The commemorative floor tiles present the na-

Class and honour

Anna Akopyan

THE Santa Faz Lodge hos ted a superb annual La dies’ Night on April 27 at the Bonalba Spa and Golf Hotel in Muchamiel. The function was well attended with 44 Members, Ladies and guests dressed to their finest. With care and class, following the Cava reception, the guests captu red their fond memories in photographs which will be cherished. After great speeches and toasts, the Gents Choir stunningly serenaded the Ladies, who sang to the highest standard in response, accompanied by the Old Clementine tune.

The Freemasonry met for the annual

event in honour of the ladies of the Santa Faz Lodge, especially expressing gratitude to Pat Beckett, the wife of the Worshipful Master, Ivan Beckett, whom both have been making generous contributions to the community throughout the year.

With great participation, the evening raised €775 for the Lodge Charity MABS Cancer Relief, making a significant difference in the lives of those battling the disease.

It was a night in which traditions, joy and hope were reflected in the attendees’ jubilant chatting, toasting and singing, commemorating the year spent with happiness.

mes of celebrities who have contributed to world cinematography.

The Albir Lighthouse El Faro del Albir dates back to 1863, located at

the tip of the town, 112 metres above the sea. It was used by lightkeepers until the 1960s and offers breathtaking views of the region.

With 3,600 individual plants and more than 230 species, the Alfas Garden also exhibits modern sculptures by Dutch and Spanish masters. Open every weekend from 10am-2pm. At Cami del Pinar 23.

AFPO Meeting

Improved society

JAVEA Town Council has begun the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and the Spanish Urban Agenda, to be followed within the next few years.

Anna Akopyan

THE AFPO (The Foreign Property Owners Association) will withhold their Annual General Meeting until June due to unprecedented circumstances.

The international Association has been assisting foreign residents in Costa Blanca since 1987. By exchanging advice and tips during the meetings, the expatriates of Costa Blanca have formed a closely-knit community which continues to help each other.

The AFPO is a non-profit organisation that allows foreign residents to share their experience of living on the coast, focusing on local concerns and Spanish laws.

With three General Meetings per year, the members of the AFPO discuss the latest updates, tips and areas of concern in the region, often collaborating with Calpe Town Council to improve the lives of foreign residents.

The exact date of the next meeting is not yet revealed. The meetings are held in English but the AFPO members come from all over the world and welcome all foreigners to join their collective. Visit www.afpocalpe.com.

Following these policies, Denia’s UNED (Universidad Nacional de Educacion a Distancia) were hosted in Javea’s town hall on Wednesday May 15, with the project, ‘Her voice, her power, our future! Women leading the way to sustainability’ in collaboration with eight other cities in Poland, Romania, Latvia, Italy, Slovenia, Ukraine and France.

The project emphasised the need to increase women’s participation in civic life and the development of sustainable agendas, focusing on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals in the Cities Network.

The deputy mayor of the local UNED, Mavi Perez, highlighted that this plan “becomes the guide that the local government will have for the coming years,” and will be followed to improve the “quality of life of the residents, as well as the care of our environment,” placing the Marina Alta region higher on the global list of sustainable and equal societies.

AFPO at Calpe’s Red Cross.

Javea Town Hall meeting.

Credit: Calpe Council, Facebook

Credit: Javea Council

Preventing addiction

DENIA Town Council is launching an addiction prevention plan with 78 actions to reduce the risks of drug use among young people. The aim of the project is to “improve the protection of the health of our minors,” as the councillor for Social Affairs, Melani Ivars, explained.

Credit:McCutchean,Pexels

The initiative focuses on cooperation with families, the National Police and educational centres.

A survey of 350 students aged 14 to 18 found that Denia is “below the national average” in alcohol, tobacco and cannabis consumption, but that there are cases of “binge drinking,” and an increased use of va-

BENIDORM validated its 100 per cent inclusivity policy by presenting the Accessible Tourist Transport Development Plan on May 16.

The City Council united 100 tourist establishments to share the developments in the accessible tourism sector.

In the 2024 FiturAwards, Impulsa Igualdad; the platform representing Spain’s disability sector, recognised Benidorm as the most inclusive destination in Spain.

Using cannabis.

ping devices, which will be addressed in the municipal action plan.

The UPCCA (Community Prevention Unit for Addictive Behaviours) will use the data collected to develop strategies to prevent addiction and will work with the National Police and education centres to promote awareness of substance effects amongst young people.

The project will also work directly with local families, managing risk factors of addiction and offering help to vulnerable families in need.

Accessible to all

Benidorm’s Accessible Tourist Transport Development Plan was the result of the platform’s collaboration with the city council.

Benidorm’s mayor, Toni Perez, emphasised: “The DTI (The Smart Tourist Destinations Network) is the inspiration that has made Benidorm an even greater reference than it was in some aspects, including accessibility.”

The mayor referenced the vast number of people with reduced mobility in the Valencian Community which is 325,000 and more than 75,000 in the Alicante Province.

Benidorm’s recent developments in accessibility, include amongst others, the single platform roads, lowered sidewalks and audio guides and braille maps in tourist services.

THIRTY users have already joined Benidorm’s life-changing telecare project, ensuring safety for the vulnerable with AI.

The worldwide project, promoted by Benidorm City Council and developed by the IoTsens (Internet Service Provider) and Moments & Events companies, is entering a new phase since its

AI for safety

launch in Benidorm. The city’s mayor, Toni Perez highlighted the bene ts of the project: “We put technology at the service of people.”

This development allows to process data on electricity and water consumption from its users, establishing

patterns and becoming aware of anomalies in the habits of the elderly and the vulnerable.

Since its launch, the project gained 30 users and collected the data of 73 homes and will be nalised at the end of June.

THE Costa Blanca Tourism Board attended the tourism conference in The Hague on Wednesday May 15, fostering the growth of its Dutch market.

The conference, organised by Turespaña, gave Costa Blanca representatives the chance to promote the region amongst the

Great venue Dutch interest

Dutch population; one of the Coast’s top tourist targets.

The event held on May 15, included a presentation about Costa Blanca and the Tourist Board’s meeting with at least 40 agents and

operators, followed by an awards ceremony for the top hotels and tourist experiences in the region.

The outstanding establishments included Hotel La Milagrosa, Hotel Playas de Guardamar, Cadena Estimar Hotels, Hotel Climia Benidorm Plaza, Hotel Climia Belroy, Vertigen Aventura, Alicante Aventura, Grupo Mundomarino and Alicante Wine Route.

Last year, the Netherlands became the second country to contributed the most visitors to the Alicante Airport, with 1,070,976 passengers, surpassed by the UK.

With a forecast of 2,157 ights from Amsterdam, Eindhoven, Maastricht and Rotterdam, the number of visitors has increased by 8,8 per cent from 2023.

Dutch residents continue using the airlines Ryanair, Transavia, KLM, easyJet and Vueling, with as many as 400,000 people expected to arrive from April to October this year.

A NEW venue for U3A Calpe was visited for the first time in May for their monthly meeting. YODEL proved an excellent venue and was appreciated by the members. Kath Bailey, a former nurse, was the guest speaker and she had everyone laughing at her very amusing stories. Bookings were taken for trips planned and even Christmas was mentioned. Kenny from Kenny’s Cabaret, very kindly lent them a sound system so everyone could hear.

U3A’s next Calpe event is at the Tennis Club on Thursday May 23 when they will be entertained by the Denia Rock Choir. The next visit to YODEL is a pre Wimbledon themed evening on June 18. For further information on U3A Calpe events or to join contact u3acalpe.president@gmail.com.

Adapted sports

Thursday

May 16, highlighting the athletic achievements of people with disabilities Asmibe (The Association

of People with Disabilities of Benidorm and the Region) united more than 300 athletes and 18 sports centres from Benidorm and the nearing municipalities.

The event began after 12pm with assisted races, long jump competitions, goal throwing, minigolf and more, followed by an awarding ceremony and a diverting community meal.

The activities were organised by TAFAD of the Lope de Vega School, with approximately 30 students assisting and encouraging the participating athletes.

Trophies and medals were granted to the most dedicated and skilled athletes to whom the event marked a signi cant recognition to be remembered for a lifetime.

The Games were attended by Benidorm’s councillor for Social Welfare, Angela Zaragozí, the councillor for Sports, Javier Jorda as well as the schools, special education and sports centres across the Marina Alta. Benidorm has been supporting and giving voice to people with disabilities more than ever before and alongside the Sports Games was o cially recognised as the best destination in Spain for accessible tourism.

THE 24th Adapted Sports Games were held in Benidorm’s Guillermo Amor sports centre on

Friendly staff at YODEL.

Ballot winner Daphne.

Income tax return time in Spain

It’s that time of the year in Spain, when we have to compile and submit our personal income tax returns for 2023. If you are tax resident in Spain, this will cover your worldwide income and gains. The system opened on 3 April, with a final deadline of 1 July.

You can file your form online or in person at the tax office. Couples choose whether to submit individual or joint returns (the latter usually only beneficial where one income falls below the personal allowance). There are penalties for late returns, so don’t leave it too late. It can be complicated if you earn income from various sources, particularly from overseas.

Do you need to submit a return?

Most foreign nationals living in Spain need to complete a tax return. Generally, only those on low incomes and taxed at source in Spain are exempt.

By Brett Hanson, Senior Partner, Blevins Franks

If you believe you are not tax resident in Spain, ensure you have this right. If the tax office questions this, it will be up to you to prove otherwise.

Income tax rates and deductions

General and savings income are taxed differently in Spain, but you declare both on your income tax return.

The progressive 2023 rates for general income (employment, pensions, rentals etc.) in Valenciana start at 18.5% for income up to €12,000

then rise over many income bands to 54% for income over €300,000. There are fewer income bands in Murcia, with rates from 19% to 47%.

Spain provides a type of personal allowance for individuals and families, the Mínimo Personal y Familiar, which is given as a tax credit against the total tax payable. For 2023 the national basic allowance is €5,500 if you are under 65, increasing to €6,700 up to age 75 and then to €8,100, though some regions have different levels. You may be able to claim additional amounts if you have dependent descendants or ascendants living with you or if one of you is disabled.

The progressive rates for savings income range from 19% for income up to €6,000 to 28% for income over €300,000.

What you need to declare Tax residents are liable to Spanish income tax on world -

wide income and gains. The Spain-UK double taxation treaty establishes where you pay tax on UK income.

UK pension income is taxable only in Spain when received by a Spanish resident. The exception is government service pensions which remain taxable in the UK. Although not taxed in Spain, you still need to include it in your income tax calculation.

UK rental income and capital gains on the sale of UK property are taxable in both countries, but the UK tax paid is offset against your Spanish liability. Capital gains on the sale of movable assets are exclusively taxed in your country of residence.

Wealth tax returns

Wealth tax returns are also due by 1 July, declare your worldwide assets as at 31 December 2023. You only need to submit one if your tax liability, after deductions and allowances, results in tax due.

Tax planning

If you are concerned about how much tax you’ve paid in 2023, take specialist tax and wealth management advice to see if you can improve your tax position. This article summarises the basic elements of income tax in Spain. For questions about completing your tax return, speak to a tax accountant. For advice on effective tax planning in Spain, speak to a cross-border tax and wealth management specialist.

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 is advised to seek personalised advice.

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

AS part of the summer campaign, Mercadona is o ering more than 94,000 tonnes of potatoes, 100 per cent of which come from Spain.

The summer potato campaign with the slogan ‘Our roots are back’ will run until September, but may be extended until October due to the high rates of production across the country. All Mercadona stores o er national products in di e-

National products

rent varieties and portions.

“We are working on recovering crops in the warmest areas to extend the national campaign as long as possible,” said Laura Merino, Mercadona’s potato specialist, emphasising: “For us, the priority is quality and the new potato is the one that meets everything our clients ask of us.” The production of these potatoes is spread across Murcia, Andalucia and Madrid, Castilla-La Mancha, Castilla, Leon, Galicia, the Basque Country, the

Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands.

Highlighting the local o ers, Mercadona proves its commitment to Spanish quality produce; now consisting of 85 per cent Spanish origin items.

In 2023, Mercadona’s purchases in Spain reached €27,142 million, which is 22 per cent more than the previous year, and the number of national sales only continues to grow.

Past Lies

DISNEY+ filmed a drama TV Series in Denia, Benidorm and Altea; Past Lies is now available for streaming.

Filmed in various locations across the Valencian Community, Past Lies is a dramatic thriller show with a cast of renowned actors, a large part of which is set in Denia.

Past Lies follows the preoccupations and secrets of a group of women, led by the actresses Belen Cuesta, Irene Escolar and Marta Etura. Twenty-five

years after high school, the women discover the remains of their long-lost friend, played by Elena Anaya, who disappeared mysteriously during a school trip to Mallorca.

The Elda Inspector, Paula Rios, commences her work on the case but the group of friends is simultaneously entering their own investigation, diving into the complex past of high school conflicts, lies and inner torments.

The series was pro-

duced in collaboration with José Manuel Lorenzo of DLO Producciones and marks the television debut of director Clara Roquet, known for her award-winning film Libertad.

Throughout 13 weeks in the summer of 2023, Past Lies was filmed across Spain, including the municipalities of Denia, Altea, Benidorm and Elda, as well as La Falla de Moraig and Madrid.

Stream Past Lies on Disney+

DRAMATIC THRILLER: Past Lies premiere.

Credit: Borial Management, oficina de representacion de actores, Facebook

Best of rugby

FOR the 37th time in its history, the Annual International Rugby Seven-a-Side Tournament will be held at Villajoyosa Rugby Stadium on May 25-26.

With 20 teams of national and invitational sides, ambitious athletes will compete for the prize of cash and status. The total €5,000 prize of the elite international championship will grant €2,000 to men and women and €500 to runners up.

The Tournament has now confirmed the teams to compete in the 2024 Seven a Side.

The 12 men’s teams confirmed include players include All Stars Sevens (South Africa), Lithuania National Team, Bulgaria National Team, Sweden National Team, Viator Barbarians (Spain), Alcatraz 7S (Venezuela), Beltway Elite (USA), Georgia National Team, Welsh Wizards, Croatia National Team, Chili Boys (Chile) and Belgium Barbarians.

The women’s teams are Poland National Team, Sweden National Team, Bulgaria National Team, Costa Blanca La Vila, China National Team, Olympic Kazajistan, Shangong Women (China) and Moldova National Team.

Facilities include bars, live DJs, food stalls, catering area, a souvenir shop and free parking.

On May 25, 10.30am-8pm and May 26, 10.30am-7pm.

Stand ticket for €12, children under 12 for free.

At Villajoyosa Rugby Stadium, Carretera El Pantano, Villajoyosa.

TO facilitate the citizens of La Nucia, the travelling DNI Office of the National Police will visit the town once again on June 26.

The DNI Office will be located in the Local d’Associacions, Carrer Sant Antoni 70, only attended through prior appointments with the La Nucia Town Hall. There are only 100 appointments available; it is advised to register as soon as possible.

La Nucia residents will no longer have to travel to Benidorm for DNI procedures, making the process faster and more efficient.

Two days will be ne-

DNI Service

cessary to process the electronic DNI. On June 26, the documentation and fingerprint will be delivered and on June

28, the national identity document with the electronic identification pin.

The Office will handle all procedures regar-

ding the DNI, including first registration, loss, theft, change of address and renewal.

For first registration, users must provide a birth certificate, a recent photograph in colour (32 x 26 mm), a registration certificate from the town council and a €12 fee. For renewal, a recent photograph, previous ID, registration certificate and a €12 fee is required. DNI loss or theft applicants must provide two photographs, a signature, fingerprints and a €12 fee.

Bernabe Cano with DNI posters.

International Rugby comes to Villajoyosa.

“CAN I get divorced in Spain if my spouse lives abroad and we got married in another country?”

In our office we receive this question very often, from citizens of different nationalities who wish to get divorced in our country. In this week’s article, we answer this and other questions related to international divorces and divorce of foreigners in Spain.

Jurisdiction in matrimonial matters. European Regulation (EU) 2019/1111. You and your spouse want to divorce, but one of you no longer resides in Spain. Can you get divorced in Spain? In principle, yes. European Regulation of 25 June 2019 regulates the court jurisdiction in cases of divorce, separation or marriage an -

nulment. In article 3 it states that, in joint divorce claims (ie divorces by mutual consent); the divorce may be brought before the courts of the ‘habitual residence of one of the spouses’.

Therefore, if you or your spouse have your habitual residence in Spain, you could initiate the divorce proceedings in our country. It does not matter that one of you resides abroad. Or if you got married in another country (United Kingdom, France, Germany, etc). However, you must grant a Power of Attorney (POA) in favour of a Spanish solicitor and procurator (a type of court clerk) before a Notary Public or at the Spanish Consulate/Embassy in your country.

The Regulatory Agreement and the ratification procedure. In order to divorce by mutual agreement in Spain, it is compulsory to present, attached to the court claim, a regulatory agreement signed by both spouses. The agreement is a kind of ‘contract’ that regulates the conditions and rules that will govern the economic and parental relations, etc. of the spouses.

When the court admits the court claim, the spouses will be called upon to ratify the agreement in person. They must confirm that the signatures on the document are theirs, that they agree with its content, etc. Is there any way to avoid the spouse who is abroad having to travel to Spain in person to

ratify the regulatory agreement in court?

The special Power of Attorney with powers to ratify the Regulatory Agreement.

Nowadays, the majority of the courts accept that the procurator can ratify the regulatory agreement on behalf of the spouses. This avoids long journeys to Spain by plane, etc. However, it will be necessary for you to grant a special power of attorney with powers to ratify. The POA must be drafted in a specific way and must be accompanied by the regulatory agreement signed by both spouses. Otherwise, it will not be valid. Our office can assist you in the preparation of this key document.

Conclusions.

If you and your spouse want to get divorced in Spain, our expert lawyers in Family Law can assist you. We will explain to you all the necessary documentation needed to get divorced. We will prepare the regulatory agreement and the special POA to complete the divorce process on your behalf. And we will advise you throughout the whole process. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information about divorce of foreigners in Spain.

The information provided in this article is not intended to be legal advice, but merely conveys information relating to legal issues.

ABOGADOS / SOLICITORS

Climbing for Diabetes

FOUR team members from Specsavers Ópticas in Javea are taking on the challenge to climb Javea’s iconic Montgó mountain on Sunday May 26 to raise funds for DiabetesCERO. They will be climbing to the highest point, Cruz de Xabia, over 750 metres above sea level. They are inviting other keen hikers to join them for the climb, in exchange for a donation to the charity and have also set up a Go Fund Me page for people to sponsor them, with the aim of raising at least €250 for the charity.

DiabetesCERO is the leading Spanish foundation investing in research into a cure for Type 1 Diabetes. Specsavers Ópticas has pledged to raise €5,000 for this charity in 2024 and this charity hike is the Javea team’s activity to get their fundraising under way.

They will be hiking an 8.4km route, from St Jeroni Carpark to the Cruz de Xabia, which is a moderate to hard level walk expected

to take three to four hours to complete.

Optometrists Martín Barrera and María Martín, Optical Assistant Gracie Glister and Rosie Segger from Specsavers Ópticas Javea decided to take on this challenge on behalf of the store. “We chose to climb Montgó as it is synonymous with Javea, where we live and work, and is quite a challenge to summit. We’d love to get a group of walkers together to climb it with us.

you can sponsor us by searching for Charity Hike Montgo in www.gofundme. com.”

“If you’d like to support this challenge from the comfort of your own couch,

If you’d like to join the climb, please con rm your attendance on the Facebook event or by emailing spain.marketing@specsavers. com. Wear hiking shoes and bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat and small donation for DiabetesCERO.

list

LONG waiting lists and lack of access to specialists have been a rising struggle for users of the Spanish public healthcare system. For patients with cancer, these delays can lead to deterioration of the disease.

Despite the availability of CRO (Oncological Rapid Circuit) which reduces waiting times, patients in the Marina Alta are still lacking the required treatment.

With an increasing number of complaints, a local association helping cancer patients, Amut, urged Denia’s Ministry of Health to develop the CRO at Denia Hospital.

“You cannot call a patient and tell them

that they do not know when they are going to have surgery because there is no urologist,” said Isabel Llorca, Amut’s President, referring to a real case.

With CRO implemented in the Marina Alta region, cancer patients would be guaranteed to receive appointments within a period ranging from 72 hours to 15 days.

Isabel Llorca argued that she sees no reason as to why CRO hasn’t been developed in Denia, for it requires no addition of the sta .

“It is sad that with alternatives such as CRO, no solutions are given to reduce this su ering,” she said, reminding the Health Ministry that this change could save lives.

CANCER PATIENTS: Waiting is a challenge.

Credit: RDNE Stock project, Pexels

Sardinian sand

SARDINIA, with its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, shines as a tourist location in the Mediterranean.

However, beneath this paradise lies a troubling issue: the illegal plundering of its natural treasures by tourists.

While the appeal of Sardinia’s sandy shores is undeniable, authorities are issuing a strong warning: leave the sand and pebbles where they belong.

The problem of sand theft has reached a critical point, prompting authorities to take action by imposing nes of up to €3,000 for those caught stealing from the coastline.

Despite these penalties, incidents of tourists attempting to smuggle sand, stones, and even archaeological artefacts have been increasing.

Several individuals have already been caught trying to take Sardi-

nia’s natural riches this year.

The potential legal consequences highlight the seriousness of the issue.

In addition to nes, tourists risk imprisonment if convicted of theft, especially if the stolen items are considered public assets, a category that includes Sardinia’s coastal resources.

Sardinia’s charm lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in its rich ecological diversity.

Lifetime adventure

FROM June 8 to 15, 36 ‘pilgrim/sailors’ will sail from the UK to A Coruña on a tall ship and then carry on to Santiago de Compostela.

John Raffety, Chairman of Age in Spain told Euro Weekly News that these pilgrims will sail from Fowey in Cornwall, England to A Coruña and then walk to Santiago de Compostela to visit the tomb of Saint James in the Cathedral making the journey just as it would have been in the middle-ages.

Medieval traveller, William Wey noted that the pilgrimage way to Compostela enjoyed widespread fame throughout medieval Europe. Land and sea alike were furrowed with routes rich in spirituality leading to Santiago de Compostela.

Three pilgrims from England - Simon Jenkins, Ned Spencer and Peter Hore developed the idea and found a company https://www.fairferry.co.uk/ which had ships willing to carry pilgrims to Galicia.

Many of the participants will walk The Saints Way which is a 27-mile route which crosses Cornwall from Padstow in the north to Fowey on the south coast.

It follows the probable route of early Christian pilgrims making their way from Ireland and Wales to Brittany or

Santiago de Compostela.

On arrival in Fowey they will board the tall ship the Morgenster, sail out of the Fowey Estuary, cross the English Channel and Bay of Biscay and onwards to A Coruña where they will disembark to walk to Santiago.

Participants will be taught sailing skills and will take their turn at the watches - four hour periods to keep the ship safe 24 hours a day.

Image: Sardegna Turismo

SANDY SHORES: Tourists have been caught smuggling sand and stones.

Nameless streets

FROM June 1 onwards, France bids farewell to nameless streets as a new law takes effect, ensuring that every street in the country receives an official name.

This monumental change will impact approximately 1.8 million residents who previously lived on unnamed streets.

Until now, France has been known for its streets with no names, however, a law passed in 2022 mandates that municipalities assign names to all streets to streamline public services like postal deliveries and emergency responses.

According to the law, municipalities with over 2,000 inhabitants were required to name their streets by January 1, 2024, while smaller mu nicipalities must comply

by June 1.

The absence of street names has caused numerous challenges over the years, leading to confusion for postal workers and emergency responders.

This change aims to address these issues, potentially making a crucial difference in medical emergencies.

While municipalities have the autonomy to choose street names, the government offers guidelines to ensure coherence and diversity.

They encourage preserving local history and incorporating regional languages alongside French.

For private roads accessible to the public, owners are responsible for purchasing and installing number plates per the law.

This comprehensive initiative aims to help navigate around the country!

Greener gardens

THE city of Antwerp is offering its resi dents a unique opportunity to make their surroundings greener by giving away 2,000 trees for planting in gardens. This initiative, running until September 30, aims to engage citizens in greening efforts and improving the city’s environ ment.

Having a tree in one’s garden not only contributes to better air quality but also provides shade during summer and creates additional breeding space for birds.

With 20 different tree species available, residents have the chance to select the most suitable option for their property.

To assist in decision-making, the city pro vides a helpful guide with questions guiding residents to the appropriate tree recommen dation based on their preferences and property characteristics.

All tree species offered are carefully selected to thrive in the local climate

Moreover, the city website offers practical advice on planting and caring for the trees to ensure they meet muni

For instance, trees exceeding two metres in height should be planted at least 2 metres away from the property boundary, unless agreed otherwise.

Every street will now have a name.

Spicing up the polls Scratch n sniff

AS the European Union (EU) elections near in June, numerous established parties vie for votes to select the 720 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) shaping EU law for the next five years.

Among them, voters may encounter unconventional and even bizarre options at the ballot box.

In France, the Europe Democracy Esperanto party advocates for adding Esperanto to the EU’s official

languages, offering a unique perspective on language diversity.

In Germany, specialised parties focus on topics like vegetarianism, humanism, and biomedical research into rejuvenation, proposing ambitious goals such as “unlimited healthy life for everyone.”

In Czechia, the ‘Don’t Vote for Us’ party promotes anarcho-capitalism, reflecting voter apathy or disillusionment with traditional politics.

Sweden’s Evil Chicken Party and Hungary’s Two-Tailed Dog Party provide satirical options, evolving into platforms addressing serious issues.

Germany’s Die Partei, founded by a comedian, offers a satirical take on politics, raising questions about satire’s role in EU elections.

The diverse array of parties reflects the EU’s democratic principles, though some question their effectiveness in legislative work.

THE French Post Office introduced a unique scratch-and-sniff postage stamp on May 19 to celebrate the iconic baguette.

The baguette was famously hailed by President Emmanuel Macron as “250 grams of magic and perfection.”

Described as “the bread of our daily lives, the symbol of our gastronomy, the jewel of our culture” by La Poste on its website, the stamp features an image of a baguette adorned with a blue-white-red ribbon and is available for €1.96.

treat beyond its visual appeal.

With a print run of 594,000 copies, this stamp offers a special

Sold by the Parisian shop Le Carre d’Encre, the stamp is said to emit a “bakery scent” when scratched.

This unique fragran-

ce is achieved through the use of ink-containing microcapsules that release the aroma when activated.

Damien Lavaud, a printer at Philaposte, explained the process: “This scent is encapsulated. The difficulty for us is to apply this ink without breaking the capsules so that the smell can then be released by the customer rubbing on the stamp.”

The French baguette, a cherished symbol of the nation, was granted UNESCO heritage status in 2022, further solidifying its cultural significance.

Hot weather warning

to all pet owners

AS temperatures rise, it is crucial to remember the severe dangers of leaving pets in cars during hot weather. Even on a seemingly mild day, the temperature inside a vehicle can soar to life-threatening levels within minutes. Studies show that temperatures can become dangerous for pets in 10 minutes or less.

Pets, especially dogs, are highly susceptible to heatstroke. Unlike humans, dogs cannot sweat effectively and rely on panting to cool down, which is insufficient in sweltering conditions. Symptoms of heatstroke include heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting and even collapse. Without immediate intervention, heatstroke can cause organ failure and death.

Leaving windows open does not provide adequate ventilation or cooling. The best way to ensure your pet’s safety is to leave them at home in a cool, shaded environment, with plenty of water.

If you must take your pet with you, ensure they are not left alone in the car, even for a few minutes.

Leave your pet at home in hot weather.

Remember, taking preventative measures can save your pet’s life. Always prioritise their well-being by avoiding unnecessary risks during hot weather. Spread awareness about this critical issue and help protect animals from the dangers of overheated vehicles.

Image: Le Carre d’Encre

Unique postage stamp.

IT has long been said that men are from Mars and women are from Venus.

Nothing could be truer than when it comes to discussing worries and concerns. While women will happily talk about their issues, men still see it as a weakness, and are more likely to just ‘man up’ and get on with it.

Samaritans in Spain believe that it is time for society to recognise that far from being a weakness, talking is incredibly empowering.

It is well documented that talking provides the opportunity for emotional release and relief.

They have been running a campaign to actively encourage the English-speaking male community to ‘lay those feelings bare’. They have done this with the help of five male residents of Spain, who willingly stripped off to convey the charity’s message saying ‘Walk tall bare all’.

While an unconventional and slightly risqué approach to a serious

subject, the number of calls made by men to their FREEPHONE number has increased. The male/female call ratio has gone from 25:75 to a more encouraging 40:60 split.

This is very welcome news as according to the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), the global suicide rate is over twice as high among men than women.

Samaritans in Spain offers a confidential listening service, currently operating between 10am and 10pm every day.

Walk tall, bare all.

Get men talking Man v Bear

A RECENT TikTok trend sparked a viral debate by asking women a rather peculiar question: if they were stuck in a forest, would they prefer to be accompanied by a man or a bear?

Surprisingly, many women leaned towards the bear.

This sentiment was echoed in responses on the platform, with some expressing that “men are scary.”

A recent YouGov survey in the UK further explored this question, revealing that a significant portion of women indeed feel more uneasy about being alone with a man in the woods than with a bear.

Overall, 54 per cent of Britons would choose to be stuck with a man they didn’t know, compared to 24 per cent who would opt for a bear.

However, among women, 31 per cent preferred the bear (compared to 42 per cent who still chose the man), while for

They are available to ALL English speakers irrespective of Nationality who reside

in mainland Spain or the Islands. They can be contacted via their FREEPHONE number

men, only 15 per cent favoured the bear. Interestingly, younger women, were more inclined to take their chances with the bear.

Among this age group, 53 per cent would choose the bear, while 31 per cent would opt for the man.

Women in their 30s showed more divided opinions, with 44 per cent choosing the man and 37 per cent the bear. When the scenario was altered to a choice between a woman and a bear, gender differences diminished.

Only 9 per cent of women preferred the bear under these circumstances, similar to the 8 per cent of men who made the same choice.

Hook, line and sinker

John Smith

AN Estonian runner, Leonid Latsepov, finished in third place in the Helsinki City Running Day half marathon on Saturday May 11 but he was unintentionally nobbled!

He was beaten into third place by just 18 seconds and he believes that had it not been for an incredible piece of bad luck, his time would have been much faster.

As he was running over Helsinki’s Lauttasaari Bridge, a fisherman, who actually shouldn’t have been there, started to cast and a gust of wind blew the fishing line with its hooks straight into the runner’s kit and leg.

Speaking to YLE, the Finnish Broadcasting Company, the runner explained “I didn’t feel any pain immediately. I tried to remove the hooks, but was unable to do so. It

ruined my run though, my whole race time could have been a minute faster. Herring fishing is also popular in Estonia, but I never thought this would happen to me.”

At the end of the race he visited the First Aid Station there and they managed to remove no less than four large hooks, some of which

were embedded in his lower leg.

The organisers of the race confirmed that there should have been no fishermen on the bridge and that they and the police had removed a number before the race started but it is assumed that one sneaked back when he saw that the coast was clear.

A new concept of tourism

ACCORDING to the World Tourism Organisation, international travel is expected to reach two billion by 2030 and three billion in 2050. To date there are no less than 98 destinations (in 63 countries) where problems related to holiday rentals have been reported.

In Spain there have been protests in many areas including Mallorca, Barcelona, Malaga and the Canary Islands among others, with local people angry in particular about the lack of rental accommodation at a reasonable price.

Fairbnb.coop is an alternative platform that is well established in Italy where the idea started, brainchild of Italian entrepreneur, Emanuele Dal Carlo, it is trying to create a model for “ethical tourism” that doesn’t price residents out of their area.

Venice, for example, has been in the news lately

with the imposition of a tourist tax in an attempt to limit numbers. Fairbnb says that holiday apartment owners must already live in the city themselves, and that a host can only list one second home on their platform. A host on its platforms could in fact own 20 properties in Venice, but only one can be let to tourists, while the others must go on to the regular rental market (source: The Times Property newsletter). Fairbnb redirects 50 per cent of its net commission to community projects. This way, your travels contribute directly to the sustainability and well-being of the communities you visit.

Latsepov had to be satisfied with third place.

Credit: Helsinki City Running Day

Emanuele Dal Carlo.

Photo: Emanuele Dal Carlo

MORE people than expected lined the route of the Olympic Torch on the first 10 days of its journey to Paris.

The flame that was lit in Athens on April 16 arrived in Marseille aboard the sailing ship Belem on May 8. It was welcomed by around 230,000 people before setting out the following day on travels that will end in the French capital on July 26.

The success of the Marseille event

Torch of enthusiasm

came as no surprise, as it coincided with a twoday public holiday but crowds since then were larger than anticipated, with daily feedback showing they exceeded the Ministry of Sport’s original forecast by between 20 and 30 per cent.

People were turning out on working days as the Torch was passed

Some stark numbers

TWO per cent of over-15s told a Statistics Netherlands (CBS) survey that they were stalked in 2023.

Of a total of 227,000 known cases, 137,000 involved girls or women and 90,000 centred on men, CBS found. Thirty-eight per cent of last year’s stalking complaints were limited to online harassment, while 40 per cent involved in-person stalking only and 15 per cent were a combination of both.

The study also revealed that men were less likely than women to tell others in their social circle about the problem or report it to the police.

Although males who were stalked belonged all age groups, female vic tims were generally younger, with 3 per cent of women aged between 15 and 24 reporting that they had been stalked in 2023. This fell to 2 per cent for women aged between

25 and 44, with very few cases amongst older women. In 66 per cent of incidents, women were aware of the identity of their stalker who was usually male and, in 22 per cent of cases, an ex-partner. Seventy-seven per cent said they had experienced emotional problems, compared to 69 per cent of men who tended not to know their stalker’s gender. Former partners were involved 11 per cent of the time, men told CBS. Twenty-two per cent of victims, split evenly between male and female, filed an official complaint with the police although 33 per cent decided not to do so because they did not believe it would not help. Seventeen per cent of the women who spokes to CBS admitted that they had not lodged a formal complaint because they feared an unpleasant reaction, or even revenge, from their stalker.

from hand to hand from Marseille to Toulouse where it arrived on May 17 via Millau, Montpellier and Perpignan.

“This relay is a time for local people, a time for local pride,” said Sports minister Amelie Oudaa-Castera, whose ministry had been saying for some time that enthusiasm would grow once the Olympic Torch was on French soil.

Nevertheless, not everyone shares that enthusiasm. “Two attempts to come into

contact with the flame were averted,” Interior minister Gerald Darmanin told a local newspaper, revealing that the authorities have already prevented 32 protests.

These included a Greenpeace, Stop Total and Oxfam demonstration that was planned for Toulouse on May 17 to condemn the practices of the Torch’s sponsor, the multinational steel manufacturing corporation ArcelorMittal.

Photo credit: Marianne Casamance

OLYMPIC FLAME: The Torch arrived in Marseille on May 8.

Female victims of stalking.

IRELAND

No hurry

REGINA DOHERTY, a senator for the Fine Gael party, said it was not always easy to get the police to make an appearance after calling them. “I’m not being disrespectful but we all know how difficult it is when you ring the guards to get them to show up for something that’s happening outside your house,” she said.

Film fame

THIS year’s Cannes Film Festival features five Irish films as well as several others that have chosen Ireland for locations. “We are a small country to get around, but very diverse,” Steven Davenport, head of US Production and Partnerships at Screen Ireland which is based in Los Angeles, told Variety magazine.

NORWAY

Phased out

VALBARD, located between mainland Norway and the North Pole, will close its last coal mine in Longyearbyen this summer as the archipelago turns to renewable energy. But as local miners and employees linked to the mine will lose their jobs, the transition is not expected to be entirely trouble-free, industry sources said.

Summer strike

PILOTS working for Norwegian Air Shuttle said they would strike in June if agreement over salaries and working conditions has not been reached by the end of May. An official from the union representing the pilots revealed that there was a “strong risk” of industrial action if pilots’ calls for a better work-life balance were not met.

ITALY

Holy orders

FORTY-NINE Vatican Museums employees are petitioning for improved working conditions and warned they would take legal action if their requests were ignored. Not only do they lack basic rights, they said, but they have been obliged to repay the salaries they received during the pandemic by working off the debt.

Match point

NOW-RETIRED tennis player Camila Giorgi, who rose to 26 in the world rankings in 2018, is under investigation for not paying income tax in 2016. The 32-year-old allegedly failed to declare all her earnings and was declared officially “missing” when tax officials were unable to locate her and serve her with a summons.

EURO PRESS

GERMANY

Coming soon

FORMER Chancellor Angela Merkel’s 700-page memoirs will be published on November 26, almost three years after she ended her 16 years in office. Titled “Freedom: Memories 19542021’. Merkel’s book will look back on the 35 years she spent in East Germany and another 35 in reunified Germany.

SWEDEN

Smoke-free

TWO leading convenience store chains are phasing out cigarette sales and will eventually stop all sales, they announced. Fewer than 5 per cent of the population now smoke, although cigarettes account for more than half their tobacco sales, which include nicotine pouches as well as nicotine-and smoke-free products.

High water

THE SMHI meteorological office warned that fast-melting snow was rapidly filling the streams, ditches and watercourses which flow into larger rivers. Vasterbotten Province in northern Sweden had to be put on orange alert owing to rising levels on the Savaran, Dalkarlsan, Ricklean and Hertsangersalven rivers..

PORTUGAL BELGIUM

Hard choice

AN Almada court acquitted a pilot instructor of negligent manslaughter after he killed an adult and a child when he crash-landed on Caparica beach in August 2017. On detecting engine failure, the pilot said that he chose to land on the beach instead of the sea as this would probably have killed him and his passenger.

New airport

PRIME MINISTER Luis Montenegro announced that Portugal would build a new international airport in Alcochete, 40 kilometres from Lisbon, to replace Humberto Delgado airport in the city centre. Situated on the site of a military airfield, the new airport would be completed by 2034, Montenegro said.

DENMARK

Motorway vote

DANISH MPs are expected to vote in favour of constructing a 20-kilometre motorway over Limfjord despite warnings from the Roads Directorate that it would entail a loss of 188 million kroner (€16.17 million). Supporters maintain that the new road will bring much-needed economic growth to Aalborg and North Jutland.

Dual-purpose

DENMARK’S Technical University and the municipal energy company on Bornholm Island are collaborating on a scheme to use excess power from streetlamps to charge electric vehicles. The lampposts’ LED bulbs use only a fraction of their capacity, which could be harnessed for other purpose, engineer Mads Aarup said.

FRANCE

On alert

PARISIANS were startled on May 13 when an official message appeared on their mobiles, accompanied by loud ringing even on quiet mode. All were advised to obtain a QR code that would give them access to secured areas between July 18 and 26 as Paris prepared for the Olympics starting on July 26.

Undecided

FRANCE has not yet decided whether to accept the US Space Command’s offer to participate in its Operation Olympic Defender initiative to boost defence and deter hostility in space. If it were to join, France said, it would not be willing to cede operational control of its military space assets to the US.

FINLAND

Stress buster

WITH anxiety sky-high amongst teenagers since the pandemic, a Janakkala high school hoped to improve matters by providing free porridge before classes begin after they learnt that many pupils were skipping breakfast. The school has also started to organise weekly relaxation and meditation breaks in the gym.

Pedal power

A RECENT survey found that employees with bicycles obtained through workplace schemes used them “significantly” more than the average cyclist in Finland. According to the service which provides the bicycles, they averaged an annual 1,217 kilometres, compared with the national average of 234 kilometres.

Voted out

GHENT’S public transport company had to move one of its bus stops after the municipal authorities put up huge billboards with posters for the forthcoming elections in front of it. City hall explained that it was easier and quicker to move the bus stop, which is much-used on weekdays, than to shift the billboards.

Soon solved

THIRTY children having a swimming lesson at the municipal pool in Mechelen were immediately evacuated after they all began feeling unwell owing to strong chlorine fumes. Once outside they soon felt better, a police spokesman said, and although paramedics attended to five children, no-one was taken to hospital.

Fine idea

AN Enschede councillor who recently visited Singapore wishes to copy the country’s hefty fines equivalent to €410 for anybody seen dropping litter in the street. Malkis Jajan wants to introduce €1,000 fines to make Enschede “the cleanest city in Europe”, adding that the current fines were “too low to have any impact.”

Who’s afraid

THE wolf that now approaches people in Ermelo was clearly being fed on the meatballs and hamburgers repeatedly found in a local car park, a wolf expert told the media. The authorities now want permission to shoot wolves with paintball guns to scare them off, as they increasingly showed little fear of the public.

ANGELA MERKEL: German Chancellor from 2005 to 2021.

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

For Single parents

Anna Akopyan

“WHEN you’re hurting, your child is hurting too,” shared one of the Guardian Angels members.

Guardian Angels is a Costa Blanca-based NGO, dedicated to supporting single parents since 2010. With free or discounted services of counselling, legal information, translation and medical help, the organisation helps single parents across Costa Blanca. In Spain, 26.1 per cent of the households are made up of single parents, as

ON Tuesday May 14, the Freemasons of Puerto de Xàbia hosted a quiz night to raise funds for local charities. Held at the brand new Grandcafe Flo in Javea, the event brought together members of the local community for an evening of fun and intellectual challenge.

Quiz Master Steve Young curated a series of thought provoking questions on diverse topics including Football, Life in Spain and the Year 2023. Participants were able to showcase their knowledge and, after an intense competition, the ‘In Last Place’ team emerged victorious. John Young, the Master of Puerto de Xàbia Lodge, took centre stage to congratulate the winners and to present them with prizes of wine.

Charity

Quiz Night

John said, “I want to thank everyone who has come along tonight and for the generosity you have shown in contributing to our charitable causes. Tonight,” John added, “we have raised an impressive €170 for important causes within our local community.

“I will make sure that your kind donation directly supports those in the greatest need.”

revealed by the National Institute of Statistics. Being a single parent in Spain can be especially difficult for foreigners, struggling with the Spanish language and laws. With Guardian Angels you will always feel supported and understood. Through registration on their website, a mentor is assigned to each member through which the organisation’s services can be accessed.

No matter your gender or nationality, the community looks forward to assisting you in your

parenting journey. With the summer just around the corner and children on a break from school, the Guardian Angels are hosting a Summer Party on July 12, offering a free ride to the Aqua Natura trip for all members and their children. Meaningful friendships are awaiting you and your kids.

Register through Sue Nutbrown on 679 369 909 or visit Guardian Angels at https://guardian-angels. es/.

Credit: Guardian Angels Community, Facebook

Dinner and dance

ENJOY a delightful dinner and a night of dancing at the fundraising event on June 7, at Can Tallarina, Jalon.

For a €15 entry with the meal included, all of the donations will be forwarded to the Goodwill Team of local charities, spreading generosity and kindness across Jalon.

The concert will begin at 7pm with the thriving local bands, the Multipass duo, with funk and pop hits, and The Ghost Riders with covers of classic rock anthems.

The menu includes a bread and alioli

starter and an ice-cream dessert. The deliciously home-made main meal options include chicken curry with rice, chilli con carne with rice, steak pie, chips and gravy, hamburger and chips, and a vegetable burger and chips.

The renowned Can Tallarina venue is one of the busiest pubs in Costa Blanca so bookings are essential.

Please, advise of main course choice(s) when booking at goodwillevents 2@gmail.com or 650 052 962. Tickets are already on sale at the venue.

Wine and tapas

Beginning the summer with a gastronomic gift, the Calpe Council has organised a White Shrimp Special Promotion Day on June 1 for the benefit of the Mother of God of Carme Festival Commission.

Starting from 7.30pm at the Plaza Mayor, all

attendees will discover the local artistry of tapas and rich wines for a popular price. At the Plaza Mayor, the screening of the finals of the highly anticipated Champion League will take place, followed by the Euforia Orchestra.

The White Shrimp Special Promotion Day coincides with the recent Firacalp White Shrimp Tapa Contest 2, the winner of which

was the Remo Restaurant with a white shrimp starter made in traditional Peruvian style, with citrus touches and fresh raspberries.

The tapas will feature Calpe’s fresh seafood and years of the chefs´ experience in the craft of starters. Tickets can be bought at Bodega Casanova, Peluquieria Marcos, Cofradia de Pescadores and Costaleros.

Anna Akopyan

SAVOUR six exquisite Mediterranean tapas and six distinctive wines in Calpe for just €12.

Credit: Roman Odintsov, Pexels

Credit: Can Tallarina, Facebook

Actors wanted

Anna Akopyan WHETHER you are dreaming about your stage debut or merely looking for a fun and free-thinking community, Maskeraid will be happy to welcome you.

Maskeraid is a theatre group of volunteers who love entertaining and supporting the community, based in Javea. They recently raised €5,040.00 for Cancer Care with Little Shop of Horrors. Now, the group sets off on a journey of the 1960s bohemia with their original play, A Very Uncomfortable Affair. An English farce comedy, the play takes place at a beach house in South England. Maskeraid is seeking male actors to fill two roles in the play; one for the leading character. Players of all ages are encouraged to join. No previous experience is necessary; most of Maskeraid’s actors debuted with the company. The group

Credit: Maskeraid, Facebook

meets every Saturday night at Maskeraid Rehearsal Studio on the first floor of Carretera de Ondara 58, Gata de Gorgos. A Very Uncomfortable Affair aims to raise funds for the Cancer Care charity.

Cancer Care’s nurses dedicate every day to assisting those battling the disease and need your support to keep going. Become a part of Maskeraid’s exciting team by contacting Lorraine on 683 178 070 or visit https:// www.facebook.com/Maskeraid22.

Tea at the Church

THE local favourite, The Church Bar & Bistro in Alb ir is welcoming guests for the new Afternoon Tea service. Enjoy an array of sandwiches, cheeses, pastries, cakes and more with drinks included for just €19. Spectacular live music and quality time are guaranteed.

The Afternoon Tea is perfect for parties and groups of families or friends, sharing The Church’s home-made delicacies.

Reserve your table on 610 129 286 or https://www.facebook.com/thechu rchalbir/

Music of Moraira

Bridgette Hudson

WELCOME the summer in celebration of music at the Moraira Music Festival on June 8-9.

For the two days, starting from 6pm, exceptional local musicians will enliven the streets of Moraira in the town centre by the municipality’s historic castle.

The 17th Moraira Music Festival this year will feature amongst others, the Soulsplosion cover

ANOTHER fabulous dinner with the U3A Denia group was held at Denia’s Vendetta; a newly opened restaurant which left a delightful impression on the U3A members. Every month, Norma Munro from the U3A Denia, organises a dinner event at restaurants across Denia, exploring the Spanish town renowned globally for its fine gastronomy.

band, The Blues Brothers, Gatecrash The Party Band, and Strikland. With timeless hits, rock anthems and blues classics, the residents and visitors of Moraira will once again welcome the summer with vibrant dance and sing-alongs.

The Festival will be held in parallel with the local tradition of the Moors and Christians Fiesta which will run until June 18.

U3A at Vendetta

For each dinner, specially priced menus are offered to all the members with a wide variety of options. At Vendetta, the U3A members enjoyed the range of tapas and main courses available, pleasantly impressed by the dishes offered. As a custom to the U3A favourable community,

the event was oversubscribed and with the limitation of the venue, could not invite all those eager to join this month.

The members received a warm welcome from Vendetta’s host, Marco, and enjoyed a splendid evening of homemade delicacies and a diverting community.

Algerian flavour

DISCOVER the authentic taste of Algerian cuisine at a special event in Con Alma restaurant in Denia. On June 7, Con Alma is hosting the private Algerian chef, Fati, as he introduces visitors to the national cuisine in a three-course menu of organic, plant-based dishes. Renowned for its exceptional use of spices and herbs, authentic Algerian dishes will be presented in the Con Alma for €30 per person, including a starter of a vegetable Kafta, couscous, dessert and drinks such as organic wine and juices. With a beautiful inside and outside venue, Con Alma is welcoming all visitors to dive into the outstandingly unique gastronomy of Algeria, made with care and authenticity by Fati. Bookings required via WhatsApp to Simone on 640 756 457.

U3A

Dining Club at Denia´s Vendetta

Credit: Simon Heard, Facebook

Credit: Con Alma, Facebook

A Swedish connection

ALL-AMERI -

CAN Taylor Swift has possible Swedish roots linking her to a small mountain town called Offerdal.

The 35-year-old singer-songwriter and global supers tar is connected to the American poet Emily Dickinson via a 17th century English immigrant, according to the US genealogy site Ancestry. Another site, My Heritage, maintains that Swift is a descendant of King Louis XIV of France and related to actor Johnny Depp.

Getting a makeover

SUPERSTAR: Taylor Swift believed to have Swedish roots.

Association, decided to start hunting for local ties.

Earlier in 2014, unreferenced sources had linked her to Offerdal and when Swift announced that her Eras Tour would visit Sweden between May 17 and 19, Sara Swedenmark, chairwoman of the Offerdal Community

She and the group have now settled on two possible Offerdal ancestors, one of whom was named Olof Thorsson. He sailed with his family to New Sweden - a former colony occupying parts of present-day Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania - aboard the Kalmr Nyckel in 1641. He was apparently deported after committing a crime in Sweden.

Photo credit: Flickr/Chad Davis

“We could see there were people connecting them, but the line was broken as one man married several times,” Swedenmark told the media.

Jons the Blacksmith Andersson, who reached New Sweden with his wife Maria and daughter Brita in 1654, is another possible Swift ancestor.

With so few solid links, Swedenmark has now asked anyone with even tenuous information to contact her.

Europe’s largest

THE Jardin del Turia, known as the Turia Garden, serves as the green heart of Valencia, stretching for an impressive 8.5 kilometres through the city centre. This makes the garden possibly the longest urban park in Spain and even Europe.

As Valencia takes on the honour of being the 2024 European Green Capital, one of its ambitious projects involves extending this lush space by an additional 1.5 kilometres to connect it with the port area and the Mediterranean Sea. This new extension will be named Parque de Desembocadura.

The park’s distinctive shape is a result of it being situated within the former riverbed of the Turia River.

Historically, Valencia faced numerous challenges with its river, which frequently flooded, causing devastation for centuries.

The most recent catastrophic flood occurred in 1957, claiming 81 lives.

In response, authorities took a decisive step to divert the entire river south of the city.

The initiative to expand the park, thereby creating Europe’s largest urban green

space, continues the legacy of former mayor Ricard Pérez Cadado, who, along with landscape designer Ricardo Bofill, spearheaded the creation of the Jardin del Turia in the 1980s.

“AN operation that will leave its mark.” This is how Florence’s mayor, Dario Nardella, announced the project for the restoration of the Ponte Vecchio, one of the symbols of the city and one of the most famous monuments in the world.

“This is an intervention that has never been carried out in the last century, the largest intervention after the 1967 flooding. For the extent of historical, artistic and architectural interest, we can say that the restoration of Ponte Vecchio is comparable to the restoration project of the Colosseum in Rome,” said the mayor.

For the work, which will last until 2026 and cost a total of €2 million, Florence will have financial help from the Antinori fami-

ly, owner of the renowned wine label, which will cover 50 per cent of the investment.

“The history of our family has always been closely linked to Florence since the 13th century. It is a city that has given us so much over the centuries, which is why we are particularly pleased to be able to be part of this important project,” says Antinori.

Built in the first half of the 14th century and subjected to various reconstructions and consolidations over the centuries, “Ponte Vecchio has withstood floods, fires, and the Nazi invasion. Now, for the first time in its century-long history, it will be the subject of a complex restoration operation,” said the mayor.

Photo:

Foreigners get the vote

A TOTAL of 43,292 foreign residents in Andalucia will be able to exercise their right to vote in the European elections on Sunday June 9, mostly Romanians.

According to data from the Electo ral Census Offi ce, a total of 302,991 peo ple from other European Union countries will be able to vote nationally in these elections, well below the 365,000 foreig ners in 2019, the last time the British took part.

Third place goes to 34,735 people from Germany (11 per cent), while there are also 30,713 French voters (10 per cent).

The most numerous group also in Spain as a whole are Romanian nationals, with 85,281, representing nearly 30 per cent of the total of this group of foreign voters, followed by Italians, with 61,802, or 20 per cent.

The countries with the fewest foreign voters in Spain are Cyprus, with 64 people; Malta, with 43; Luxembourg, with 168; Slovenia, with 314 and Croatia, with 359.

After Andalucia, the community with the most foreign residents with the right to vote on June 9 is the Canary Islands, with 38,411 registered voters, headed in this case by Italians, who are also the largest nationality group among the 53,709 people who can vote in the European elections in Catalonia.

Guinness goes green

DIAGEO, owners of the world famous Guinness brand, has announced plans to invest over €100 million to decarbonise its historic St James’s Gate site in Dublin, where Guinness has been brewed for 264 years.

The investment will enable St James’s Gate to entirely phase out the use of fossil fuels in its direct brewing operations and reduce emissions generated by the site by more than 90 per cent and make it one of the most efficient breweries in the world by 2030.

By that year, the site’s re-

power heat pumps and biogas generated within a new water recovery facility. This facility will also improve water use efficiency and enable a reduction in the water used to brew Guinness by 30 per cent.

Taoiseach Simon Harris said: “Guinness has been made in Dublin for over a quarter of a millennium, and today so many tourists visit the location while they are here. It’s not just a green transformation for St James’s Gate but a flagship transformation that will send a strong message to

Diageo’s Global Chief Executive Officer, Debra Crew, said, “St James’s Gate is a historic location for an iconic brand. We’re 260 years into our 9,000-year lease at St James’s Gate and this investment will ensure that Guinness has an exciting and long-term sustainable future.”

This plan is the latest move by Guinness towards futureproofing its business, with the company long-since known for its pioneering employment offering of free health care, pension, paid holidays, and free meals to employees for over

Photo: Facebook / Guinness

European elections are on Sunday June 9.

Photo: Shuuterstock / Daniel Jedzura

“Investing in Costa Blanca” financial stability

INVESTING in Costa Blanca, Spain presents a multifaceted opportunity blending financial stability, lifestyle enhancement, and promising returns. The region’s allure is rooted in its stunning Mediterranean coastline, rich cultural heritage, and favorable climate, making it a magnet for tourists and expatriates alike.

Costa Blanca’s real estate market thrives on this popularity, with a steady demand for rental properties, hotels, and residential developments. The consistent influx of visitors ensures a stable foundation for investment, bolstered by Spain’s resilient economy, which has demonstrated

gradual growth over recent years. Property value appreciation is a significant draw for investors in Costa Blanca. Real estate prices have steadily climbed, offering the potential for substantial capital gains. This upward trend is fueled by domestic and international interest, driven by the region’s scenic beauty, relaxed lifestyle, and cultural vibrancy.

Beyond financial returns, investing in Costa Blanca enhances quality of life. Its laid-back atmosphere, delectable cuisine, and diverse recreational activities create an idyllic setting for residents and visitors. From exploring historic towns to enjoying water sports along the coastline, Costa Blanca offers a

plethora of experiences catering to various interests.

Accessibility further bolsters Costa Blanca’s appeal, with several international airports nearby and efficient transportation networks facilitating easy travel. This connectivity enhances the region’s popularity and contributes to its status as a top destination for both leisure and investment.

In conclusion, investing in Costa Blanca provides a compelling opportunity to capitalize on a thriving real estate market while enjoying an unmatched lifestyle. With its blend of financial stability, property value appreciation, and quality of life benefits, Costa Blanca stands out as a prime investment destination.

Sell with Select Villas of Moraira

Select Villas of Moraira

LOOKING to sell your property along the breathtaking Costa Blanca North? Look no further than Select Villas of Moraira. With over 21 years of expertise, our reputation, paired with local market insight, positions us as your top choice to sell your property.

In the current local market, demand for properties in this picturesque region remains strong, fuelled by its natural beauty, excellent climate and attractive lifestyle offerings, it is a competitive market for vendors. With buyers seeking value, properties that stand out in terms of location, presentation, pricing, and amenities are in high demand. At Select Villas, we closely monitor economic trends and tailor our strategies to ensure that your property is positioned effectively to achieve optimal results.

We also understand the significance of making your property stand out from the competition. Our free no-obligation valuation service focuses on setting a competitive price, effective presentation and professional marketing With a foundation built on honesty, transparency and accountability, we strive to determine the best market price to attract buyers, generate viewings and secure enticing offers. Additionally, we are members of the register of real estate agents of the Valencian Community RAICV 1311 and are fully API (Agente de la Propiedad Inmobiliaria) qualified and registered, adhering to a strict code of ethics and professional conduct.

Great communication is key in real estate, and our team speaks seven languages: Spanish, English, German, French, Dutch, Italian and Valenciano, ensuring a smooth and transparent experience!

We want your property to stand out and reach as many potential buyers as possible and will advise you on how to get your property ready for viewing and selling. We design a personalised property description paired with up to 40 professional photographs and for overseas buyers, we offer Video viewings to bridge the gap with potential purchasers.

To provide buyers a comprehensive view of your property, we offer Exclusive Clients a 360º virtual tour, detailed floor and site plans, along with additional marketing and your property is prominently displayed in our office windows, leveraging our prime location in the heart of Moraira This ensures visibility and captures the attention of potential buyers.

In addition, Exclusive clients enjoy a 20 per cent reduction in commission, plus we will cover the cost of obtaining the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) at the notary. In addition to our comprehensive in-house services, we showcase your property across various platforms and portals, utilising newsletters, social media channels and even attending multiple international exhibitions. Twice a year, we take our passion for real estate on the road, attending prestigious international fairs where we connect with clients seeking their dream home abroad. Among these events are the renowned Second Home Beurs Exhibition in Utrecht and the esteemed A Place in The Sun Exhibition in the UK Our commitment is to ensure your property enjoys maximum visibility.

As part of our customer service, we keep you informed about all property viewings and provide detailed feedback for each visit. Accessible through a private login on our website, our Vendor Portal allows you to monitor your property’s performance 24/7. Finally, our commitment to you doesn’t stop at selling your property, we are always here to help and answer any questions you may have.

Don’t just take our word for it, look at our testimonials and our five-star Google reviews from our satisfied clients, including Michiel and Theo, who recently bought and sold a property with Select Villas of Moraira, see our QR code to read their story.

Choose Select Villas, sell your property with confidence and experience our exceptional service first-hand! Select Villas - Simply the Best.

966 490 861 | 616 002 993 | Avenida de Madrid 5, 03724 Moraira, Alicante | enquiries@select-villas.es select-villas.es

Moraira Plumbing and Heating Experts

ESTABLISHED in the heart of Alicante’s picturesque coastal region, Moraira Plumbing Heating stands as a testament to quality, professionalism, and dedicated service in the field of plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and more. A family-run business that has carved its niche on the Costa Blanca since 1998, it boasts over five decades of industry experience, ensuring that residents of Moraira, Benissa, Calpe, the Jalon Valley, Benitachell, and Javea receive only the finest in home maintenance solutions.

Moraira Plumbing Heating offers an extensive array of services, from

Continuous Growth

Bob Marquess

general plumbing maintenance and leak repairs to sophisticated solar systems and water treatments. Their expertise extends to central heating systems, gas and oil installations, air conditioning, swimming pool maintenance, and electrical installations. Each service is tailored to meet the unique needs of their clientele, ensuring satisfaction and peace of mind.

What sets Moraira Plumbing Heating apart is their commitment to excellence and customer care. Offering free, no-obligation consultations, the company ensures that clients are well-informed and comfortable before any work

IN the dynamic Spanish real estate market, the Costa Blanca shines as a region experiencing continuous growth

Taylor Wimpey España, a British developer, reports a remarkable 40 per cent increase in housing reservations in the area compared to 2023.

This surge is fuelled by clients from 17 different nationalities, underscoring the rising popularity of the Costa Blanca for both residency and investment purposes. The Costa Blanca’s upward trajectory mirrors the positive trends seen in the national real estate market.

According to data from the General Council of Notaries, February 2024 witnessed 53,142 home purchase and sale transactions, marking a 9.7 per cent year-on-year increase.

Specifically, new home transactions surged by 20.83 per cent, accompanied by a 4.24 per cent rise in median home prices compared to the previous year.

These statistics align with Taylor Wimpey Spain’s findings, as the company continues its expansion in its primary areas of influence: Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, and Mallorca.

On the Costa Blanca, Spanish buyers now account for 15 per cent of reservations, signalling a notable uptick in domestic demand within the region.

begins. Their team of highly trained professionals, many of whom have risen through the ranks within the company, uphold the highest standards of quality and expertise.

With a keen eye on innovation and technology, Moraira Plumbing Heating continually seeks new ways to enhance their service offerings, all while maintaining fair pricing and on-time, on-budget project completions. Their multilingual staff speaks English, Spanish, and German, reflecting the diverse community they serve.

For those in search of reliable, professional, and comprehensive

plumbing and heating services, Moraira Plumbing Heating is a beacon of excellence on the Costa Blanca. Contact Ray Gardner at

Calle Mulhacén 3, Carretera de Moraira a Calpe 142b, Moraira Teulada 03724, Alicante, 966 498 993 | WhatsApp: 620 523 613 | info@morairaph.com | www.morairaph.com.

Monday to Friday 9.00 to 14.00 with appointments available outside these hours

Ensure your home remains in pristine condition year-round by reaching out to Moraira Plumbing Heating today.

How Oscar saved 50% of his Solar installation costs in 16 months

Helping to cut your gas & electric bills with Solar Panels & Energy

THIS week I found a story in one of Spain’s most popular residential solar forums.

It was a homeowner who’d saved half his installation costs in 16 months.

If you’re looking to make a smart investment in 2024 then this blog could bring the best ROI on five minutes of your time this year!

Here’s the details.

Oscar spent €6,800 on a solar installation in September 2022.

In January 2024 he counted bills over the past 16 months.

Here’s what he found…

His average electricity bill had fallen from €95 to €20 a month.

He’d avoided paying €350 in gas bills because he was heating his home with an AC unit.

That’s a combined saving of €1,550.

And it’s not all…

Oscar got a €452 reduction in his property tax (IBI) over a five-year period.

He also got a tax rebate (IRPF) of €1,400. This adds up to a saving of €3,402 which is half his installation costs!

There’s two interesting things about Oscar’s story:

1. You can still get IBI reductions and tax rebates in 2024

2. Oscar’s monthly electricity bill before going solar was only around €95 It’s the first time I’ve seen someone with a monthly electricity bill under €100 and be on track to break even in four to five years.

Usually the fastest return is for homes paying €150-400 a month.

Oscar Will Avoid Paying Iberdrola €7,624 in the Following 5 Years!

Last year we built an online solar calculator.

The result for Oscar estimates he’ll cover his costs in four to five years (subtracting incentives worth €1,852 from an installation of €6,800 makes a total of €4,948).

He’ll then avoid an estimated €7,624 in electricity bills in the five years after breaking even.

But energy savings aside…

Oscar said solar was the ‘best investment’ he’d ever made.

He said: “I keep my house warmer in winter and cooler in summer than before.”

“My system will pay for itself in around four years.

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“After that, I will continue to save money while enjoying a better quality of life at home. ”This is the hidden benefit of solar energy. You can run all your normal appliances (and keep your family happier) but without worrying about the monthly bill. Isn’t that something worth investing in?

Want to Try our Break Even Calculator?

Grab your latest electricity bill and in two to three minutes you can find out:

• Your recommended system size

• Your expected break even period

• Your expected savings in the next 10 years Follow the link below to get started: misolar.website/ewn

Avenida de la Fontana 18, Local 1, Jávea, Alicante, Spain 611 212 289 | info@misolar.website

Diverse landscape

Blessed with an average annual temperature of 18°C, its climate is renowned by the World Health Organisation as one of Europe’s and the world’s finest.

The region comprises bustling hubs like Alicante, Benidorm, Calpe, and Torrevieja, alongside charming towns and cities.

The Costa Blanca is also home to numerous protected natural parks, 22 golf courses, and 25 yacht clubs. With its diverse landscape, the Costa Blanca offers a range of living options, whether it’s in urban or residential areas, by the sea, on plains, amidst the countryside, or in the surrounding hillsides.

Anna Ellis

THE Costa Blanca, a stunning coastal stretch within the province of Alicante, spans approximately 240 kilometres from north of Denia to Torrevieja in the south, featuring over 218 kilometres of coastline adorned with beautiful sandy beaches.

Outshining competitors

Photo: VAlekStudio

THE luxury real estate market in Spain outshines its neighbouring competitors, showcasing steady growth across all 50 provinces of the country.

While the Balearic Islands, Madrid, Barcelona, and Malaga collectively represent 70 per cent of prime properties, Alicante’s luxury real estate sector has seen remarkable growth,

averaging a 25 per cent annual increase over the past three years.

Consequently, Costa Blanca has emerged as a preferred destination for million-dollar investments.

Property prices in Alicante are relatively lower compared to Madrid or Barcelona, with the average luxury home costing above €2 million.

In terms of market values, property prices vary based on segment and location.

Premium homes typically range between €1.5 and €3 million, while luxury homes command prices between €3 and €10 million, with super-luxury properties exceeding this range.

The average cost per square metre stands at €3,900, with Alicante boasting the highest market value at approximately €5,085 per square metre.

Price pizzazz

THE price of used housing in Spain saw a 1 per cent increase during April, reaching €2,098 per square metre. According to the latest Idealista real estate price index, the Costa Blanca is leading the way with this trend. This figure represents a 6.9 per cent rise compared to the same month last year, while it remains 0.8 per cent

The solution that best fits your needs

TOTAL ACCESS offers expert solutions for individuals facing accessibility challenges at home. This rapidly expanding Alicante-based company specialises in addressing the needs of individuals with conditions like arthritis, wheelchair users, or those who struggle with stairs.

They source their high-quality products from top manufacturers in the Netherlands, Germany, and the UK, and have a dedicated team of skilled installers to ensure efficient and professional installation of your new equipment.

The company’s portfolio includes stairlifts, home lifts, platforms, and even swimming pool

below the historical peak recorded in June 2007.

Among the Spanish Autonomous Communities, 12 regions saw prices rise compared to the previous month.

Comunitat Valenciana led the increases with a rise of 1.7 per cent.

In terms of provinces, 38 provinces recorded higher prices compared to the previous month.

The largest increases were seen in Almería, closely followed by Alicante with a 1.6 per cent increase.

During April, 38 capital cities also experienced increases in housing prices. Valencia saw the most significant increase, with seller expectations growing by 3.6 per cent, followed by Alicante with a 3.1 per cent increase.

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lifts, all designed to enhance the quality of life for those finding daily tasks increasingly difficult. A recent client, Mr Timms, engaged Total Access to make his home fully accessible for his wheelchair-bound grandson, enhancing their family gatherings.

From installing a heavy-duty horizontal platform at the entrance to a portable pool hoist and a small ramp in the living room, Total Access provided tailored solutions to eliminate the barriers in Mr Timms’ home. The company stands by its reliability, often completing installations in just one day, and offers insured work to alleviate any concerns.

Clients can expect a home visit from Total Access to assess their needs and receive an immediate, personalised proposal, with consideration for financial constraints and potential financing options. With a unique confidence in their service, Total Access allows customers to retain 10 per cent of the cost for two weeks post-installation to ensure complete satisfaction.

Visit their showroom in Callosa d’en Sarrià, Alicante, or contact them on 900 525 920 or via email at info@total-access.es. For a comprehensive overview of their services and the latest equipment, explore their bilingual website at total-access.es.

“MP

WHEN considering selling your property in the enchanting region of Calpe, partnering with a reputable real estate agency is crucial. MP Villas stands out as a beacon of trust and excellence in the Costa Blanca real estate market. Their commitment to client satisfaction and a comprehensive, hassle-free approach to property sales sets them apart, ensuring your selling experience is both rewarding and successful.

MP Villas prides itself on a team of highly qualified professionals, each holding university degrees in real estate, underscoring their expertise. Their affiliation with the Colegio Oficial de Agentes de la Propiedad Inmobiliaria de Alicante and registration in the Valencian Community’s real estate brokerage registry are testaments to their proficiency and reliability. This

ensures that your property sale is in the hands of knowledgeable and trusted professionals. Selling your property involves more than just listing it; it requires strategic marketing, accurate valuation, and legal expertise, all of which MP Villas provides. They begin the process with a free, no-obligation valuation, giving you a clear and realistic understanding of your property’s market value. Specialising in the Costa Blanca market, they ensure your property reaches a wide audience, utilising international real estate web portals for maximum exposure.

The journey with MP Villas extends beyond finding the right buyer. They offer end-to-end assistance, guiding you through every step of the sales process, including legalities, to ensure a smooth and secure transaction. Their dedication

Home Staging

Staging your home for sale is a crucial step in ensuring a swift and profitable transaction

to after-sales service and property maintenance further showcases their commitment to your long-term satisfaction.

Choosing MP Villas means opting for a partner who not only understands the local market but also values your peace of mind and investment. Their personalised approach guarantees that your property sale is not just a transaction, but a well-supported journey towards your goals.

For those ready to take the next step in selling their property, MP Villas is ready to assist. Contact them today at their Calpe office to begin your property selling journey with confidence:

With MP Villas, you’re not just selling a property; you’re setting the stage for your next chapter with a team dedicated to your success.

C/ Santa María, 4, 03710 Calpe (Alicante) | 966 146 640 or 652 963 767 | Email: info@mpvillas.com | mpvillas.com

THE process begins with decluttering, which involves removing personal items, excess furniture, and any unnecessary objects that could distract potential buyers. This creates a clean, open space that allows buyers to envision their own belongings in the home. Thorough cleaning is essential, as a spotless home suggests it has been well-maintained.

Strategic furniture arrangement can also make a significant impact. Position furniture to highlight the home’s best features, such as a fireplace or a beautiful view. Ensure that each room has a clear purpose to avoid any confusion about the space’s functionality. Adding small touches like fresh flowers, tasteful artwork, and new, coordinating linens can create a welcoming ambiance. ADVERTISING

ABBEY PROPERTIES SINCE 1970!

“JOIN us on a journey through time, back to the late 1960s, amidst the shadows of Francisco Franco’s regime, as our family embarked on a remarkable adventure in Denia, Alicante. Through the hardships and triumphs, we’ve woven a tale of perseverance, community, and growth, spanning over five decades.

It all began with Shirley and Byron, our visionary parents, who dared to dream amidst uncertainty. Arriving in the vibrant heart of Denia, they purchased a plot of land, accompanied by an old house that whispered tales of the past. With determination in their hearts, they transformed this humble abode into a beacon of nightlife, a night club bar where Spaniards and expatriates alike gathered to revel in the spirit of camaraderie.

Yet, their ambitions knew no bounds. Saving diligently, they navigated the labyrinth of bureaucracy to realise their next endeavour - a small development of bungalows, rising from the earth as symbols of resilience and hope. Despite the challenges, their vision prevailed, and the bungalows stood as testaments to their tenacity.

But our story doesn’t end there. Inspired by the beauty and potential of the land, our family forged

new paths. Collaborating with Spanish builders, we ventured into the realm of property promotion, connecting clients from afar with the treasures of our beloved town. For five decades, we’ve walked hand in hand with Denia, witnessing its evolution into a cosmopolitan haven.

Today, as the second generation, I, Edward Barker, proudly carry the torch forward. For 23 years, I’ve embraced my role with passion and dedication, cherishing each opportunity to guide others on their journey to finding their perfect property. In the heart of Denia, amidst its bustling streets and vibrant culture, I’ve found my callingto help others discover the magic of this place we call home.

Join us as we celebrate our family’s legacy, a testament to the enduring spirit of resilience and the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to dream.

Together, let us write the next chapter of our story, united by a shared passion for community and the pursuit of happiness.” xxx

Visit our website abbeypropertiesltd.com or send an email to info@abbeypropertiesltd.com

C/ Patricio Ferrándiz 33c, Denia | 03700 Alicante | 965 788 515 | info@abbeypropertiesltd.com | abbeypropertiesltd.com

Housing investment returns

THE Valencian Community has witnessed a significant surge in housing investment returns, reaching 7.9 per cent in the first quarter of 2024.

Over the past five years, there has been a significant 1.5-point increase in investment returns, as revealed by data from real estate platform Fotocasa. This upward trend, emphasised in their recent report ‘The Profitability of Housing in Spain in 2024’, speaks volumes about the resilience of the property market, with both rental and purchase prices witnessing growth.

Maria Matos, Fotocasa’s Director of Studies, highlights a notable surge in individual investors turning to real estate as a reliable and stable option, particularly amid economic uncertainties.

Regional variances highlight the diverse landscape of Spain’s housing market, with the Valencian Community spearheading the surge at 7.9 per cent. Eleven regions have experienced a notable increase in profitability, with nine surpassing or matching the national average of 6.6 per cent. Following Valencia’s lead, regions such as Murcia, Cantabria, and Catalonia demonstrate similar patterns, indicating a widespread trend of growth and stability in the real estate sector.

City highlights showcase the thriving real estate landscape in Valencia’s urban areas. Moncofa leads the pack with an impressive 8.2 per cent return, cementing its status as the most lucrative city in the first quarter of 2024. Ontinyent, Oliva, and Castellón de la Plana follow closely, boasting strong profitability figures that underscore the overall positive trend across Valencia’s diverse urban landscape.

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George Cunningham ALICANTE holds the fifth position in Spain’s luxury real estate market, showcasing significant growth alongside the sector’s nationwide momentum, which boasts approximately 41,000 properties.

Notably, Alicante experiences particularly robust growth compared to other provinces.

In terms of market share, the Balearic Islands lead the ranking with 24 per cent, followed by

Malaga (22.5 per cent), Madrid (12 per cent), and Barcelona (11 per cent). Alicante secures 10 per cent of the total market share, indicating a notable influx of real estate investment into regions that previously held marginal market shares.

The luxury real estate market in Alicante attracts substantial capital from abroad, although Spanish buyers remain prominent.

European citizens, particularly from Germany, Great Britain, Sweden, Russia, and Switzerland,

contribute significantly to this market. Additionally, there’s a growing trend of purchases by US citizens and, to a lesser extent, Mexican buyers. Single-family homes, situated on the beachfront or in mountainous areas, are the most sought-after luxury properties. Buyers typically fall within the 40 to 50-year-old demographic, often holding executive positions in large corporations, seeking either a secondary residence or a holiday home.

WHETHER you are searching for a sun-kissed villa or a quaint Mediterranean apartment, navigating the vibrant real estate market in Spain, can be equally thrilling and daunting.

While the search for your dream Spanish property can be a lot of fun, the actual purchasing process can be a nightmare of admin and additional costs.

Property transactions in Spain often entail cumbersome processes, including the use of bankers’ drafts, which can lead to delays and hefty fees, in addition to multiple in-person

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Heating your pool effectively

‘The Techpools Way’

By Simon Spragg - Techpools

Prime Real Estate

ALICANTE’S

prime real estate market continues its upward trajectory following a busy 2023.

ACCORDING to a report from Lucas Fox International Properties, this segment is experiencing remarkable dynamism, with luxury properties fetching prices exceeding €4 million.

The surge in international demand is a key driver, leading to faster transactions and heightened interest in new construction projects.

Lucas Fox’s study reveals that the Valencian Community led home sales per population in 2023, boasting a rate of 18.08 per thousand inhabitants, surpassing regions like Murcia. Alicante and its renowned tourist destination, Costa Blanca, emerge as leaders

in relative real estate activity, with 24.35 sales transactions per thousand inhabitants. This solidifies its position as one of Spain’s most attractive destinations for real estate investment. The report highlights that international buyers are primarily seeking renovated traditional properties with ample space and views of the sea or mountains.

There’s also demand for spacious modern villas, Provençal-style houses, and beachfront apartments, particularly in sought-after areas like Playa San Juan, Cabo de las Huertas, Alicante Golf, and other select locations in Alicante.

STILL feeling a bit chilly to jump into your pool, too early in the season maybe… but if only! Well it’s time to stop dreaming and embrace the Techpools approach to starting your pool season now.

The truth is, I’m a bit of a pool geek and am constantly researching ways to help people improve their pool experience. By using state-of-the art equipment, combined in an ‘operating system’ manner, a 30º luxury heated pool is not only attainable but sustainable.

Technology: By using sophisticated heat pumps, we can get the pool up to temperature. To keep the pool clean, we use wi-fi programmable circulation pumps which keep you pool clean and hygienic. And finally, we add in the smart chemistry bit

which helps your pool be continually self-maintained. Best of all, because this is an ‘operating system’ kind of thinking, the whole system is optimised which keeps costs down.

Keep The Heat In: It’s a fact that 80 per cent of pool heat is lost through the surface of the pool. At Techpools we can supply and install from a range of covers and we can even supply ‘Heatsavr’, a superb chemical cover - just in case your pool is an odd shape.

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Anna Akopyan

A STUDY showed that Costa Blanca has one of the highest rates of second homes in Spain, making it one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations.

Of the 33 regions of the Valencian Community, only the Marina Alta and Baix Segura areas have more second homes than main residencies, placing it at the top in Spain´s international market, with a huge appeal for property sales.

The 2021 study by the IVE (Instituto Valenciano de Estadística) compared the number of main residences and second homes on the Costa Blanca and found that Benitachell has 65.4 per cent second homes, followed by Calpe with 62.4 per cent, Teulada-Moraira with 61.2 per cent, Denia with 61 per cent, Javea with 55.9 per cent and Benissa with 55.5 per cent.

This study has shown that many towns on the Costa Blanca have more tourists than residents and host a large number of international visitors who tend to spend some months in Spain and some months abroad, making Costa Blanca a unique and diverse place to both visit and live in.

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Benidorm housing initiative

Eva Alvarez

SUSANA CAMARERO, Vice President of the Generalitat, has unveiled a bold plan to address housing shortages in Benidorm with a €12 million investment.

A significant portion of these funds, €4 million, will come from European contributions, signalling a fresh commitment to housing solutions and a departure from past inaction.

During her visit to the proposed housing site on Guatemala Avenue, Camarero, accompanied by Mayor Toni Perez and other officials, emphasised the urgency of the project. She pledged swift action in both tendering and construction to meet European funding deadlines.

This announcement aligns with the government’s broader strategy, as evidenced by the recent unveiling of the ‘Plan Viu,’ which aims to build 10,000 public homes. Camarero’s proactive stance highlights a clear break from the past, signalling a determination to confront housing challenges head-on.

In Benidorm, the planned construction of 90 public homes includes a significant allocation for young adults, recognising their struggle with high rental costs as they strive for independence. Camarero stressed that these homes aim to prevent vulnerability rather than just assist vulnerable families.

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municipalities, public-private partnerships, and regulatory amendments to facilitate construction. Mayor Perez praised the city’s role in offering land for the project, marking a departure from past governmental inertia.

The proposed homes will be available for rent

under concession agreements, with ownership reverting to the municipality after 50 or 75 years. This partnership between regional and local authorities signals a shift towards proactive public development, promising lasting benefits for Benidorm’s residents.

Long and short of it

SPAIN holds the honour of having the longest place name in the EU and the fth longest in the world with its 39 letters.

Of course, the European champion is from Wales and one that no doubt all Britons can easily pronounce: Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch.

However, the EU champion is in the picturesque Baztan Valley of Navarra in the Basque Country. Here you will nd the small village of Azpilicuetagaraycosaroyarenberecolarrea.

This Iberian word wonder, often abbreviated to Azpilkueta for practical reasons, translates from Basque as ‘low eld of the high corral,’ re ecting the area’s landscape.

With just about 190 residents and a modest count of 20 houses, this village isn’t just a linguistic curiosity; it is steeped in mythological lore with tales of lamias.

Legend has it that lamias are seductive yet dangerous female creatures from Greek mythology, that purportedly eat children and seduce the menfolk, they can

also in uence the local weather, bringing storms.

Azpilicuetagaraycosaroyarenberecolarrea’s exceptional length and cultural depth contrast sharply with the brief and quirky names found in Galicia.

This region, known for its linguistic diversity and cultural richness, doesn’t waste its breath or ink with rambling place names.

In the province of A Coruña, there are towns with names that are as short as three letters, such as Cee, Zas, and Teo. These towns are not just easy to remember but also re ect Galicia’s unique cultural heritage.

Further south in Galicia, travellers will come across other minimal names places. In the province of Lugo there are the towns of Foz and Pol. Still further a eld in the Galician province of Pontevedra visitors will nd Tui, Mos and Oia.

Incredibly, to nd Spain’s shortest place name we have to go back to the Basque Country. On the northern coast, in the province of Biscay lies the little town of Ea.

AS the summer approaches, experts have hinted that there could be an increase in jellyfish populations along Spain’s beaches.

According to Josep-Maria Gili, a professor at the CSIC Sea’s Department of Marine Biology and Oceanography, “It is a bit early to predict the presence of jellyfish in 2024 on the Spanish coasts this summer, although we are on an increasing trend.”

The life cycle of jellyfish typically kicks into gear in late spring and extends throughout the summer. Rising sea temperatures - a direct effect of climate change - encourage these marine creatures to begin earlier, thus extending their reproduction cycle.

“If the water temperature rises more and that water temperature is more persistent, the polyps will give rise to the jellyfish sooner. And they will appear a month earlier,” Gili explains. This shift means not only more jellyfish each year but potentially two generations in a single summer.

The dwindling number of predators, due to overfishing and a decline in biodiversity, leaves fewer natural controls on the

jellyfish population. Geographical factors also play a role.

Jellyfish swarms are often pushed towards the coast by sea winds and surface currents, increasing their presence on the beaches.

Despite the increasing presence of jellyfish, it’s unlikely that any Spanish beach will experience more than 20 days of jellyfish disturbance over the summer, with occurrences not lasting more than three consecutive days at any given beach.

As the Mediterranean coasts brace for a typical jellyfish season in July, August, and September, tourists and locals alike are advised to stay informed but not alarmed.

The town of Ea, Basque Country.

Legal loophole

IN the Netherlands, escaping from prison or a psychiatric facility has historically not been considered a crime.

However, this only applies if the escapee acts alone; anyone who aids in the escape is subject to punishment.

When a prisoner escapes and is subsequently apprehended, they are typically returned to the institution to serve out their sentence.

However, aiding an escapee has always been illegal.

Despite this, the Dutch authorities have recognised the need to address this legal loophole.

Outgoing Minister for Legal Protection Franc Weerwind intends to introduce a legislative amendment in the summer to make escaping from prison officially punishable. This initiative has been in progress for five years, with Weerwind

pledging in 2019 to address the issue following pressure from the Tweede Kamer, the lower house of the Dutch parliament. The proposed amendment would impose an additional four-year sentence on individuals who successfully break free from incarceration. Weerwind recently acknowledged the delay in

pushing forward with the bill, attributing it in part to the distractions caused by pandemic-related matters. He assured parliament that he is actively working on advancing the legislation and is committed to implementing the necessary changes to ensure that escaping from prison is met with appropriate consequences.

Lost in translation

A RECENT poll suggests that some beloved British insults are at risk of fading away, with many young people appearing unawa re of their meanings.

The survey, which asked 2,000 individuals about their familiari ty with various insults, revealed that some terms like “toss pot” and “toe rag” are falling out of usage, with over a third of res pondents having never heard of them.

Among the lesser-known insults, “lummox” topped the list, leaving 62 per cent of peo ple under 28 puzzled.

Similarly, terms like “bli ghter” and “ninny” stumped over half of young respon dents.

Even classic insults like “plonker” from the popular TV show Only Fools and Horses are losing their impact, with a quarter of the younger generation unfamiliar with the term.

Despite their declining usage, many of these insults are relatively mild, with only one in five respondents expressing offence at being called a “plonker” or “pillock.”

Harriet Scott, CEO of Perspectus Global, noted, “Language changes,

evolves, and moves on. Our research shows that calling someone a plonker or a prat is no longer a fashionable way to insult them.”

The list of British insults that younger people are unfamiliar with includes “lummox,” “bampot,” “blighter,” “ninny,” “cad,” “drip,” “tosspot,” “toe rag,” “pillock,” “plonker,” “nitwit,” “prat,” “scallywag,” “git,” and “numpty.”

Taking back the streets

IN the quirky corner of Barcelona’s La Salut neighbourhood, local residents are throwing a party over a rather unusual feat: wiping themselves off the map!

For years, residents complained they couldn’t get home because the number 116 bus is always crammed with visitors to Antoni Gaudí’s Park Güell. The park is the city’s second most popular attraction after the Sagrada Familia basilica recently described here.

But then they won the bus jackpot! Thanks to some nifty moves by the city council they’ve the bus to themselves now, with Google and Apple maps removing it from their routes.

“We laughed at the idea at first,” said a local activist. “Getting on that bus before felt like squeezing into a sardine can. So jam-packed even people with walking sticks couldn’t get on.”

The city council’s playing it coy, neither confirming nor denying their hand in this vanishing act. And Google’s staying tight-lipped too, only singing if the council calls the tune.

The activist, who’s been campaigning for eight years for the council to address the problem, is now eyeing the ultimate prize: removing the whole of Park Güell from Google maps.

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page,” wrote the fourth-century philosopher St Augustine. Maybe for number 116 bus passengers some pages were becoming a bit too well-thumbed...

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Escaping from prison was not considered a crime.

Image:

Casimiro PT / Shutterstock.com

Many insults are relatively mild.

Image: Viacheslav Nikolaenko / Shutterstock.com

NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST. NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

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Castellfollit de la Roca

John Smith

A BASALT cli in Catalonia rises 50 metres above ground and perched on top of this narrow cli is the medieval town of Castellfollit de la Roca.

Buildings including a ne church and belltower run along the thin strip of cli for around one kilometre and the town currently has almost 1,000 inhabitants.

It can trace its history back for nearly 1,000 years and although in a relatively easily defended position it has been destroyed by earthquake or invasion by the French and even su ered during the Spanish Civil War.

For a small yet fascinating town, there is plenty going on and arguably it ‘punches above its weight’ with regular estas and even boasts the Rockerol Festival and food truck event.

For centuries the apparent ‘ oating town’ has been a magnet to artists and nowadays is geared up to cope with tourists who want to walk the narrow medieval streets and enjoy the view from the massive courtyard at the edge of the town which has two rivers the Fluvià and Toronell owing on either side of the cli .

One of the recommended times to be in the area is at sunset, when the rays of the setting sun illuminate the cli .

If however you get bored with all of the surrounding natural beauty, then you might want to visit the Museu de l’Embotit (Sausage Museum) which was founded in 1993 to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the local Sala family producing sausages - admission is free and you might even get to sample some of the wares.

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The stunningly beautiful Castellfollit de la Roca.

Mass tourism impact

VOX Pop

MOVEMENTS across Spain are calling for the negative impact of mass tourism and over-crowding to be addressed. We asked our readers if this reaction has come too late:

Judy Abingdon who is British but lives in Palma, Mallorca said “Mallorca is a seductive location with a long history and a rich culture that naturally attracts a lot of attention. Having lived on a lot of islands I think it su ers from the same thing that usually happens. Investors see dollar signs and rush into projects without much planning. So yes, I think it will be very hard to correct this problem now, but I don’t put blame on the tourists. I put it on the planners who should have done better and considered its citizens and visitors beforehand.”

cally with fewer tourists, the people shouldn’t vote for governments that make it so di cult to start and run small businesses. The self-employed and entrepreneurs should be praised and held up as examples.”

Ian Raistrick from England who now lives in Calpe has a somewhat similar view saying “It makes sense that there is a movement against mass tourism, especially in places like Mallorca or Ibiza. There’s only so much space on one island. The lives of people who work at restaurants and hotels become a ected; they’re in a strange situation because in the summer there’s a ood of income, but during other seasons they struggle to nancially support themselves; there’s no stability or balance.”

Norwegian-born Cecilie Gamst Berg had quite strong views on the subject “If Spain wants to survive economi-

May Al-Ali also living in Palma commented “As a Londoner who relocated to Spain, I feel that tourism is great for the country, it helps the economy grow. I’m sure the government appreciates that, and I’m sure that the increase in the value of locals’ houses is welcome too. The government just needs to put measures in place to support the infrastructure of the islands to reap the bene ts of the economic boost.”

Eamon Brown from Ireland who is holidaying in Mojacar said “It all depends on the tourists, I can understand that some places just don’t want noisy crowds of youngsters on hen nights or stag dos but they are only a small percentage of those who visit and genera-

CECILIE GAMST BERG

JUDY ABINGDON

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Titanic worry

BELFAST based shipyard

Harland & Wolff’s warned that the company might not survive if a £200 million (€233.09 million) loan guarantee from the government failed to materialise owing to state aid rules. This could put at risk a £1.6 billion (€1.86 billion) contract to build Royal Fleet Auxiliary support ships.

Late homework

BRUSSELS asked the Spanish government for proof that it had introduced effective systems to prevent China’s Huawei accessing the 5G network. This was one of the reforms and conditions that Madrid had to comply with by 2022 in order to receive a fourth payment of European Union funds worth €10 billion.

Raspberry float

CAMBRIDGE-BASED

Raspberry Pi, whose lowcost computers help children to learn about IT, has sold 60 million units worldwide since 2012 and now intends to list on the London stock market. The business could be valued at £500 million (€582.72 million) the Sunday Times said on initially reporting the float.

Looking ahead

CONSTRUCTION and infrastructure group ACS posted a first-quarter net profit of €177 million, an 8.4 per cent increase on 2023. The firm headed by Real Madrid president Florentino Perez had a turnover of €8.70 billion during this period, prompting a “minimum” net profit forecast of €600 million for the entire year.

Booting up

BOOTS US owner Walgreens Boots Alliance is increasing efforts to find a buyer for the British pharmacy chain and working with experts to establish discussions with likely firms, according to Bloomberg reports. Insiders said that Walgreens would want £7 billion (€8.16 billion) for the 174-year-old company.

LONDON-LISTED mining

company Anglo American, which rejected a second takeover approach from Australia’s BHP on May 13, is selling De Beers.

After rejecting a £34 billion (€39.62 billion) offer from BHP, following an initial £31.1 billion (€36.25 billion), Anglo intends to sell the world’s leading diamonds company.

Anglo controls 85 per cent of the firm, while the Botswana government owns the remaining 15 per cent.

De Beers, which represents 6 per cent of Anglo’s business, is expected to fetch around $7 billion (€6.46 billion), according to JP Morgan.

STAT OF WEEK

has been spent by Spain’s state-owned Industrial Holding Company (SEPI) in acquiring an 8.53 per cent holding in telecommunications company, Telefonica.

The thinking behind the sale was “to simplify” the mining group and give it “a new level of strategic flexibility,” while making more cash available to shareholders, Anglo’s chief executive Duncan Wanblad said on May 14.

Al Cook, De Beers’s chief executive, who is known to back the sale, was quoted in the Telegraph as saying that new ownership would “open up new possibilities.” Cook is now tipped to play a significant role in the future

sale.

Other Anglo plans include selling its coal mining interests as well as its stake in the Anglo American Platinum (Amplats), which is listed in South Africa. There will also be less spending on the Woodsmith fertiliser mine in Whitby (Yorkshire).

Wanblad revealed that Anglo was contemplating “a range of options” for De Beers, which could include a full or partial sale.

French luxury giants LVMH, Richemont and Kering have all been suggested as possible bidders for the iconic brand, although Wanblad did not reveal how many were involved.

THE Playmobil factory in Onil (Alicante) is closing after 48 years.

Sales fell 25 per cent overall between 2022 and 2023, with Spanish sales dropping by 33 per cent.

German parent company Horst Brandstatter slowed production in September 2023 and when the Playmobil Iberica plant closed on May 13, 26 employees joined the 13 made redundant in April.

De Beers selloff Game over Oil find

REUTERS revealed that oil company Repsol is negotiating the sale of a holding in its renewables division.

Repsol Renewables is currently worth €5.9 billion including debt, ac cording to a UBS report in April 2024.

The company headed by Josu Jon Imaz has received an unsolici ted approach from an investor and appointed Santander to advise on the sale, people close to the talks told Reuters. The move would help the Spanish multinational to fund its strategic plan through to 2027, four separate sources confirmed.

What is known so far is

Price is right

ROYAL MAIL owner, International Distributions Services (IDS), said it would back a £3.5 billion (€4.08 billion) offer for the UK postal service from Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky.

An earlier £3.1 billion (€3.61 billion) share offer of 320p (€3.73) was rejected as undervaluing Royal Mail, but IDS said on May 15 that it would recommend accepting 370p (€4.31) per share if a formal offer were made.

Kretinsky, part-owner of West Ham United, already has a 27.6 per cent holding in Royal Mail via his EP Group.

Repsol

Sareb sale

SPAIN’S Bad Bank, Sareb, is selling two debt portfolios for €2.3 billion.

Sareb, set up by the Spanish government in 2012, was created to take on more than 200,000 unpaid loans and properties from savings banks affected by the housing bubble.

This, Sareb hopes, will help to shrink its €8.79 billion of toxic assets which in recent years it has tended to reduce by selling off assets.

One of the portfolios, Genova, which is now on the market, consists of €1.5 billion in unsecured loans. The other, called Guiza, is still being prepared and contains loans secured by a mortgage, Sareb sources said, making it more valuable than the Genova portfolio.

in talks

that Repsol would retain more than 50 per cent of the renewables unit once the unnamed investor injected new capital, the insiders continued.

Talks were at a preliminary stage, they said, emphasising that there was no certainty that the deal would go through.

Reuters could not determine the investor’s identity and neither Repsol nor Santander wished to comment on the sale.

Yes and no

GRIFOLS, leading manufacturer of plasma-derived medicines, announced a €21 million first-quarter net profit. This was €129 million up on the same period last year, a recovery that analysts welcomed, although with occasional reservations.

Grifols results for the first three months of 2024 were positive and continued improvements seen during previous quarters, Investment bank Renta 4 said, despite a “particularly negative cash flow.” Nevertheless, Grifols was once again under attack from short-seller Gotham which accused the Barcelona-based company of diverting a €266 million dividend to Scranton Enterprises, a holding company which is owned by the Grifols family and former Grifols executives.

Another 20 continue to work in areas that remain operational, as the company is maintaining Onil as its distribution, sales and marketing centre for Spain and Portugal. RUSSIA has located huge oil and gas reserves in the Antarctic, much of it in areas claimed by Britain.

Members of the Commons Environment Audit Committee (EAC) heard that Russian research ships believed that the area contained 511 billion barrels of oil, roughly 10 times the North Sea’s entire 50year output.

Junior minister David Rutley said that his department had decided to trust Russian assurances that it was just conducting scientific research, although experts warned that trusting Russia “was naïve.”

earners

TESCO chief executive Ken Murphy’s pay doubled to £9.93 million (€11.57 million) as the retailer’s profits soared in 2023.

Most of Murphy’s pay deal came from £8.3 million (€9.67 million) in bonuses, although he also received a basic salary of £1.64 million (€1.91 million).

There was a corresponding increase for Imran Nawaz, Tesco’s chief financial officer, whose own pay rose from £2.27 million (€2.64 million) to £4.95 million (€5.76 million).

DE BEERS: One of its showrooms in London’s Bond Street.

Photo credit: CC/Gryffindor

REPSOL: Chief executive Josu Jon Imaz not confirming renewables rumours.

3I Group 2.973,00 +15,00 +0,51% 25,64K

Group 2.674,0 +5,0 +0,19% 7,02K Airtel Africa 119,90 +0,70 +0,59% 177,54K

American 2.699,5 +22,0 +0,82% 191,82K Antofagasta 2.395,00 +30,00 +1,27% 63,66K Ashtead Group 5.864,2 +100,2 +1,74% 21,19K

British Foods 2.736,0 +6,0 +0,22% 16,35K

12.072,0 -38,0 -0,31% 59,56K

Trader Group Plc 728,80 -1,20 -0,16% 40,44K

497,10 +3,40 +0,69% 413,03K B&M European Value Retail SA 544,80 +1,20 +0,22% 58,20K BAE Systems 1.372,25 +10,75 +0,79% 131,75K

217,30 +0,50 +0,23% 1,62M

Developments 525,00 +0,60 +0,11% 119,29K Beazley 674,50 -1,50 -0,22% 46,51K

5.340,0 +30,0 +0,56% 2,06K BP 495,75 +4,45 +0,91% 1,67M British American Tobacco 2.475,0 0,0 0,00% 146,97K BT Group 134,25 0,00 0,00% 1,83M

3.038,5 -5,5 -0,18% 19,29K Burberry Group 1.090,8 -9,2 -0,84% 117,72K

146,40 +1,85 +1,28% 579,76K

Cola HBC AG 2.804,0 +20,0 +0,72% 44,77K

2.250,14 -5,86 -0,26% 37,67K

Group 254,20 -0,40 -0,16% 43,34K

Intl 4.739,0 +31,0 +0,66% 3,97K DCC 5.920,0 -5,0 -0,08% 2,43K

2.808,5 +8,0 +0,29% 981,74K

4.180,00 -12,00 -0,29% 3,05K DS Smith 374,40 +0,20 +0,05% 58,15K

487,62 -3,18 -0,65% 530,74K

731,80 +9,80 +1,36% 56,82K

3.701,0 +10,0 +0,27% 44,35K

Invest 1.050,00 +2,00 +0,19% 36,84K

Entertainment 16.235,0 +20,0 +0,12% 9,90K

827,83 -0,17 -0,02% 5,73K

2.338,0 +5,0 +0,21% 12,46K

Going out

FORMER UK Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi, who announced he would not run as a Tory MP in the next election, was named chairman of Very Group, owned by the Barclay family. Expected to take over on June 1, he will be replacing. Aidan Barclay.

Going up

BRUSSELS increased its 2024 growth prediction for Spain to 2.1 per cent thanks to domestic demand and a strong labour market, Economy commissioner Paolo Gentiloni said. Implementing the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) would underpin investment growth, he added.

Asda’s two-for-one

ASDA will take advantage of its property assets and reduce its debt by selling land covered by one of its largest London supermarkets.

Co-owners billionaire Zuber and Mohsin Issa and London-based TDR Capital intend to sell the freehold of the 10-acre (four-hectare) Park Royal superstore in Ealing to Britain’s biggest housebuilder, Barratt.

Subject to planning permission, Barratt will redevelop the site, construc-

Digi the poacher

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

company

Digi reported a €178 million turnover in Spain between January 1 and March 31.

This was 24 per cent more than 2023’s first quarter, bringing a gross profit topping €40 million, 46 per cent up on last year.

Digi, which now has more than seven million customers, continues to

poach those of Spain’s other operators thanks to its tariffs for fibre internet connections and mobile lines. The low cost Romania-based operator added another 546,000 clients during the first three months of this year, 32 per cent more than the same period in 2023.

In contrast, Telefonica’s first-quarter earnings increased by 1 per cent, and its gross profit by just 0.2 per cent.

ting a 60,000-square foot (5,570-square metre) Asda store and 1,500 homes.

Barratt will meet the cost of the new £30 million (€34.94 million) store and also pay for the land. No mention was made of the sums involved, although Barratt West London’s managing director Craig Carson was prepared to say they were “significant.”

By the end of 2023, Asda was £3.8 billion (€4.42 billion) in debt, paying £441 million (€513.7 million) interest on loans dating from 2021. Asda refinanced £3.2 billion (€3.73 billion) of its debt earlier in May in order to “strengthen our balance sheet” according to chief financial officer Michael Gleeson.

Ian Lawrence, who heads Asda’s Mixed Use Development department, revealed that the company plans to sell six other sites in London for redevelopment, enough to build 10,000 homes over the next five or six years.

Shop theft

ARCHIE NORMAN, Marks & Spencer chairman, maintained that police had little interest in dealing with shoplifters and many store thefts were never solved. Retailers had to spend “a lot of money” on tackling the problem and although shoplifting in M&S stores had been reduced, this was mainly due to measures the retailer had introduced, Norman told LBC Radio.

Day jobs

A RECENT survey by economic think-tank Fedea found that 83.7 per cent of employees working in Spain’s hospitality industry were overqualified for their jobs, compared with 68 per cent in other European countries. Fedea also found that 76.6 per cent of Spain’s agricultural workers and 73.1 per cent employed in logistics were also overqualified.

PARK ROYAL: Impression of the future development in Ealing.

Photo credit: asda.com

Still a true patriot

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

IF the UK doesn’t toughen up against the threat of potential terrorism they really can put their heads between their legs and kiss the proverbial’s goodbye. How frantically the authorities and the leftie media rush to inform the public that some recent atrocity or another is ‘not terrorist related’.

Couldn’t do it this week though could they? An elderly British citizen, out for a morning walk, cut to pieces by an Islamic asylum seeker. The perpetrator later told the police that had he possessed a machine gun he would have killed more people! Almost unbelievably in court he denied the charges and although he acknowledged stabbing the man, said he had ‘no intent to kill or cause serious harm’.

You really couldn’t make it up. Naturally, the perp (once again no doubt filling the coffers of his ‘defence’) was eventually found guilty, sent away for 45 years and will no doubt receive all the undivided attention and special ‘needs’ those who follow the religion of

terrorism seem to experience during their incarcerations. The first thing the UK government (whichever lot preen at the top) has to come to terms with and more importantly publicly admit, is that they are still in a war; or do we have to wait for another horrendous attack which can’t be denied as being terrorism related? Political correctness and the fear of being labelled a racist deterring us from admitting who our enemies are, is utterly ridiculous.

The 25,000 (it’s probably double that) terrorist suspects presently at large in the UK have to be monitored more closely, including phone hacking and the eavesdropping of conversations. No individual connected of terrorism should have access to public funds for leave to appeal and, wherever possible, immediate deportation should be in effect. Suspect’s homes must be raided far more frequently. Mosques and schools, suspected of preaching radicalism, must be investigated more thoroughly and offending leaders arrested.

Police have to be given much wider powers and not be in fear of recrimination for offending some religious ritual or another. The UK is quite simply too dammed soft. The days of Geneva con-

ventions and fair play are over. This enemy merely looks on any sign of decency as a weakness.

You can’t possibly fight a war against them shackled by political correctness, or the fear that you may ‘offend’ somebody. This war is also being fought on many fronts, including a growing number in high office, banner bearers who parade the streets and bleaters in the public media. The enemy is everywhere.

Strange is it not, that when I warned of all this over 20 years ago, I was accused of being a ranting idiot and indeed often observed as a laughing stock? Well, no one’s laughing now are they? Once again, I reiterate my reasons for discussing the UK in my columns, it is not only that I’m still a true patriot, but basically because those of us who choose to live elsewhere, seem to observe far more intimidation and foreboding than those who still reside in the land of ‘woke,’ where the suppression and clampdown of appropriate public opinion seems to be growing by the day.

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.

Risk of drought

THE effects of climate change continue to show across Europe; in the Netherlands they are resulting in increasing drought, especially during the summer.

Floods and rises in sea levels are expected throughout the summer in the Netherlands, as reported by the government’s Environmental Assessment Agency, PBL. “We know extreme events will happen but not exactly when and where. So we need to be prepared,” said Van Gaalen of the PBL, referring to the economic consequences of climate change.

According to the Agency, at least eight million people in the Netherlands live in areas with high risks of floods. Considering an increase in temperatures and its effects on health, agriculture and nature, the consequences are estimated to reach more than €1 billion.

The drought, however, is the biggest threat to the country. “Dry periods are becoming more frequent and last longer and at the same time the demand for water is growing. That means that more areas will be faced with a lack of water for irrigation or even drinking water. Choices will have to be made,” said Van Gaalen.

The effects of drought is a big threat.

Credit: Alabama Extension, Flickr

Speckle style

FRECKLES, once shunned, are now celebrated as unique beauty marks, sparking the love or hate them debate. People are increasingly embracing their freckles,

By Clinica Britannia

seeing them not as flaws but as charming features that add character to their appearance. With the rise of natural beauty trends and the empowerment of individuality, freckles are no longer concealed but proudly dis-

However, some still struggle with societal pressures and seek ways to conceal or even remove them. Yet, as the beauty industry evolves to champion diversity, freckle-friendly make-up and skincare products emerge, offering options for all preferences. Ultimately, whether adored or disliked, freckles are a part of one’s identity, deserving acceptance and appreciation in the journey towards self-love.

Professional denture service

HERE at Clinica Britannia we are happy to offer our existing and new patients an Express Service for the repair of any type of Dental prosthesis (denture) within as little as one hour, due to our onsite laboratory and technicians.

If you already have existing dentures and want them to look like new again, then why not have them cleaned and polished, we can make that happen whilst you wait.

Did you know that a completely new set of dentures can now be made within four days, allowing you to enjoy your new smile within record time,

you could even have them made without interrupting your vacation.

Now available is a new flexible denture, which is made of a material known as Nylon. This semi-flexible high-quality material is almost transparent and can be made to mimic the natural colour of the gums, giving a completely natural look.

Thanks to the technological advances in the world of dentistry, the materials used for the creation of dental prostheses has improved immensely, making them last longer, be more comfortable and easier to use.

For further information contact our Dental Team at Clinica Britannia who will be happy to answer all your questions.

Popular peel

PEEL-OFF lip stain is a revolutionary cosmetic product, which is gaining immense popularity in the beauty industry.

Unlike traditional lipsticks, this innovative formula applies as a liquid but dries to a peelable film, leaving a long-lasting tint on the lips.

It’s not just about the vibrant hues it offers, peel-off lip stains boast smudge proof and transfer resistant properties, making them ideal for all-day wear.

This trend is skyrocketing as more beauty enthusiasts appreciate its convenience and natural finish.

With its ability to provide a pop of colour without the need for frequent touchups, peel-off lip stain is transforming make-up routines worldwide, catering to those seeking both style and practicality.

Its rise also reflects a broader shift towards minimalistic beauty solutions, and the growing demand for impactful make-up.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

We

will make your life much easier

MARIGOLD HOME CARE, a beacon of comfort and support for the elderly, recently attended the Forum Mare Nostrum in L’Alfaz del Pi with their first presentation.

Despite the apprehension of the unstable weather, the event was a resounding success, no amount of rain could dim the brilliance of the organisation’s services throughout the Costa Blanca region.

Marigold Care Home has been helping your loved ones for almost 30 years and still going strong. At the Marigold Lodge residents can spend their time in a private room or studio flat, surrounded by an array of serene and beautiful gardens, whilst dining on freshly cooked food every day. Not only is this something to look forward to, but they also offer services such as light housekeeping, laundry, hygiene assistance, and even down to running errands.

Not only that but if you need as-

sistance with your normal day-to-day or more intensive care and support, Marigold’s dedicated team is fully capable and able to provide the support needed to enhance the quality of life for you or your loved one with their 24-hour care.

By Clinica Britannia

Gaining weight or have problems losing it?

With Marigold Home Care, it doesn’t matter how much or how little help you need, we support you, to make your life easier.

For more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Marigold Home Care on +34 634 308 412 / 966 580 582 or you can email us at info@marigoldcare.es or visit our website www.marigoldcare.es

THEN visit us at Clinica Britannia for our Internal Specialist to assess your general health. He may ask for a stool or blood sample to be taken to rule out any underlying health problems and to help identify the cause of weight gain, as this can be due to various reasons, one being Gut Dysbiosis.

Your gut is home to more than 100 trillion bacteria - and that is a lot and together, this bacteria and other microbes in your gut make up your gut microbiome. If the healthy bacteria in your gut outgrow the harmful ones, then your digestive health should be fine. However, if the harmful

bacteria outgrow the healthy ones, it causes an imbalance called Gut Dysbiosis. You will experience symptoms such as diarrhoea, bloating, gas, abdominal pain, weight gain and heartburn.

If the results of the diagnostic tests show that you are suffering with Gut Dysbiosis, our Nutritionist can work out

an individual plan tailored to your lifestyle and personal diet preferences to help alleviate the problem, making weight loss a lot simpler. Our nurse at the surgery will also offer you regular follow-up appointments, every two weeks to a month, to monitor your weight loss and progress.

Bev, Albir team leader (left) and Margaret, owner of Marigold (right).

Marigold Lodge Credit: EWN

Salt intake

MAINTAINING a healthy salt intake is crucial for overall well-being.

By Karan Sud Dental

Dental Insurance plan

Excessive salt con sumption is linked to high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease and

The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that adults consume less than five grams (about one teas poon) of salt per day.

can also lead to kidney damage and contribute to the development of osteoporosis.

DENTISTRY in the UK has become almost non existent, impossible to get an appointment. We have so many patients travel here to get treatment.

To manage salt intake, it’s important to be mindful of both the salt added during cooking and the high levels found in processed foods. Foods like bread, cheese, soups, and sauces often contain significant amounts of hidden salt. Opting for fresh, whole foods and reading nutrition labels can help reduce salt consumption.

Using herbs and spices as alternatives can enhance flavour without adding extra salt. By making these adjustments, individuals can maintain a healthy salt intake, supporting heart health and overall well-being.

They all have a similar fear that they may lose their registration, as our database of patients is phenomenal.

So we have decided to introduce a monthly insurance plan for peace of mind, similar to those in the UK such as Denplan.

Our scheme will be a monthly payment of €14 per person.

This will entitle the holder of the policy to have priority treatment including two exams, two scale and polishes and routine X-rays a year. When we all worked in the UK, we found these plans work very well as it encourages patients to maintain their check-ups and cleans due to

the fact they are paying monthly, and it’s such a low cost amount you don’t even notice it.

We will develop more comprehensive plans in the future which will include discounts on fillings, crowns and bridges.

For more information or if you wish to sign up, please contact our reception and we can arrange a time for a chat. www.ksuddental.com.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol A symphony of goodwill

A

HEARTFELT thank you to Fiesta Live! “We are beyond thrilled and deeply grateful to announce that Fiesta Live! has chosen Collective Calling as the benefiting charity for the legendary Pete Tong event at their upcoming five-day music extravaganza at Marbella Arena” said the organisation on social media.

Collective Calling’s mission is to combat homelessness and its associated challenges by providing comprehensive support and long-term solutions to individuals and communities in need.

Everyone’s support means the world to Collective Calling and to those whose lives will be positively impacted by the generosity of Fiesta Live!

As Pete Tong takes to the stage, each beat will not only set the rhythm for an unforgettable night but also echo the heartbeat of change and hope that Collective Calling strives to bring to those in need.

Axarquia Tourism boost

THE Tourism Department of the Rincon de la Victoria Town Hall continues its efforts to enhance its positioning as a tourist and cultural destination. Their latest campaign, which will run until the end of this year, focuses on promoting Villa Antiopa and Cueva de la Victoria. This involves the placement of printed panels in various locations across the Axarquia region and the city of Malaga.

A total of 42 locations, including hotels, campgrounds, tourist offices, and travel agencies, will feature informative panels highlighting both Cueva de la Victoria and Villa Antiopa.

Continuous promotion remains a key strategy for the Tourism Department to maintain Rincon de la Victoria as a leading destination.

Rincon de la Victoria remains committed to showcasing its unique cultural heritage to travellers.

Mallorca

Responsible tourism

BRITAIN’S Ambassador to Spain, Hugh Elliott, has called on UK holidaymakers to exhibit responsible behaviour amidst Mallorca’s intensified efforts to control alcohol-fuelled tourism. Speaking during a visit to Calvia on May 14, Elliott emphasised the need for British tourists to remember they are guests and act responsibly.

Recent adjustments to a 2020 regional government decree regulating alcohol consumption are part of a broader initiative to promote tourism in areas including Magaluf’s Punta Ballena strip. These measures aim to address issues arising from overcrowding and surges in tourist numbers across Spain’s islands. Residents in the Balearics and Canary Islands are demanding change in growing numbers.

Elliott stated, “This is about understanding what responsibility is about, responsibility as guests because us foreigners are guests here in Spain.”

Costa Blanca South Seriously soaring

ALICANTE-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport achieved its best April on record, welcoming 1,590,828 passengers. This marks the fourth consecutive month of record-breaking numbers, surpassing April 2023 figures by 10.8 per cent.

International travellers remain predominant, contributing 1,365,202 passengers, marking a 10.1 per cent increase.

National traffic also saw a notable rise, with 223,594 passengers, up by 15.8 per cent compared to the previous year.

Breaking down international visitors by nationality, the United Kingdom topped the list with 552,320 travellers, followed by the Netherlands (102,913), Belgium (81,690), Germany (81,538), and Norway (71,056).

In terms of flights, the airport managed 10,100 movements in April, up by 9.2 per cent from the previous year.

Almeria Blind date

THE charity ONCE visited Cuevas del Almanzora on Friday May 17 to meet with councillors and students from local schools to give a demonstration of how it feels to be blind.

The children were blindfolded and given sticks and were then invited to walk in the same shoes as a blind person.

They were taken through a specially created obstacle course which was created in the town but were accompanied at all times in order to ensure that there were no accidents.

Even the mayor took part in playing the role of a blind person and afterwards spoke about the daily reality of those who are blind or visually impaired and the absolute determination of the council to help build a more inclusive society.

Costa Calida AVE backlash

THE introduction of the AVE Malaga-Murcia hasn’t quite hit the mark with the folks in Murcia.

Despite initial excitement, reality swiftly set in when they learned about the journey’s daunting duration - six to seven hours. Social media quickly became a hub for disbelief and frustration.

Departing from Murcia at 3.32pm, stopping in Alicante at 4.35pm, then heading to Madrid, and finally arriving in Malaga at 10.36pm, the journey’s length left residents shaking their heads. One quipped, “I might as well walk and save €300 on this ‘tourist AVE’.”

Another lamented, “It’s practically a tour of half of Spain. Are we fools to entertain this?”

One resident expressed, “It’s a mockery of the Region of Murcia. Not only do we endure railway neglect, but we’re also being laughed at. They’ve turned us into a railway island.”

Flights halted Whales sink yacht

A GROUP of killer whales have sunk a sailing boat that was in Moroccan waters in the Strait of Gibraltar, and its two crew members had to be rescued by the authorities.

The events occurred on Sunday May 12 at around 9am, when the two occupants of the sailing boat were attacked by a group of killer whales or orcas, 14 miles from Cape Espartel, in Morocco, as reported by Maritime Rescue.

An urgent call requested evacuation as they had felt and heard the

blows from the orcas to the hull of the boat resulting in damage to the rudder. The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Tarifa recommended that they put on their life jackets, turn on the Automatic Identification System and have their radio beacons ready to locate them if necessary.

The oil tanker MT Lascaux, which was sailing close to the scene of the incident, was asked to come to provide assistance, the two crew members of the sailboat were res-

INTERVIEW

cued and taken to Gibraltar. The yacht however, was left drifting and subsequently sank due to the damage.

This is the first known interaction with killer whales in the waters of the Strait of Gibraltar this year, coinciding with the arrival of good weather.

According to experts, the interactions between the killer whales and the boats “are not aggressive,” but are more related to “play or socialisation behaviour than aggression.”

Speaking European –

Rainer Schauberger

For the past seven years, Rainer has been split between Spain and Germany, spending half a year in each country. He admits he feels more at home during the “Spanish seasons.”

Anna Akopyan RAINER confessed that his fascination with Spain began when he was a teenager: “It was love at first sight or even before the sight... I dreamt of Spain before I ever visited and when I fina lly did I felt like I was dreaming still: it was marvellous.”

Rainer Schauberger.

Rainer’s first journey was with his wife when they came to Moraira in 1987. A year later, they bought a home there. Now, Rainer lives in Calpe and spends his days doing fitness, going on local excursions,

and holding mass in the Church of Albir.

Rainer has been learning Spanish for years and continues attending lessons to expand his knowledge. His everyday life is filled with Spanish and he often speaks Spanish even with his English-speaking friends.

“The reason why I love Spain so much is that people here always look at the positive side first and only then consider the negative. The climate, the culture, and the people make Spain a place where one can be truly happy.”

EIGHT Last Generation activists were arrested after bringing Munich airport to a standstill when it had to close for two hours on Saturday May 18.

Six of the activists cut through the security fence before supergluing themselves to the ground in the early morning, protesting against Germany’s climate policies and subsidies for aviation. Flying was more polluting than any other form of travel, they declared.

Incoming flights were diverted while some departures from Munich had to be cancelled and others delayed.

The protest coincided with the Whitsun weekend, one of the busiest times of the year, when 350,000 passengers expected to use the airport.

“Hundreds of thousands of passengers were prevented from a relaxed and punctual start to their holiday,” Ralph Beisel, general manager of the German Airports Association told the dpa press agency afterwards.

“Trespassing the aviation security area is no trivial offence,” he warned.

Nancy Faeser, Germany’s Interior minister, called on airports to step up their security measures and condemned the Last Generation protest as criminal.

She said they endangered air traffic and also harmed climate protection: “They only cause contempt and anger,” Faeser pointed out. Volker Wissing, her counterpart at the

Transport Ministry, suggested that new laws would penalise actions like Last Generation’s Munich protest with prison terms of up to two years, since current legislation still treated them as “minor offences.”

Meanwhile, a Last Generation post on X maintained that the government “downplayed” the negative effects of flying on the environment and called for the aviation industry to be shut down “fairly.”

Photo: Flickr CC / Chase Dekker

LAST GENERATION: One of the activists who disrupted Munich airport.

Handmaid’s Tale Bank merger

BBVA took the market by surprise when it announced recently its “negotiations to explore a possible merger” with Sabadell Bank.

The merger of the two entities would result in a market value above €70,000 million and with a volume of assets of €1,037 trillion, making it the largest bank in Spain.

BBVA communicated to the National Securities Market Commission:

“BBVA confirms that it has conveyed to the president of the Board of Directors of Banco de Sabadell the interest in starting negotiations to explore a possible merger between both entities.”

If the merger is realised, the high figures of its assets would outperform CaixaBank in being the largest bank in Spain, coming just behind Banco Santander if its international businesses are

added, and third largest in Europe after BNP Paribas.

After BBVA’s announcement, the entity fell 6.65 per cent on the stock market, while Sabadell rose 3.37 per cent.

The EAE Business School professor, Ricardo Zion, revealed the merger may cause “the departure of employees,” affecting at least 4,000 workers out of the 140,000 that the banks have.

WITH elections to the European Parliament due to take place in Belgium on Sunday June 9, the ‘gloves are off’ and the Green party has taken a swipe at the Right.

It argues that as a matter of historic fact, right wing parties believe in encouraging women to have as many children as possible in order to keep any country racially pure.

In Nazi Germany, there was a special award, the Mother’s Cross which came in three different versions, depending on the number of children born.

The Gruen (Green) Party argues that one of the major platforms of the alleged far-right Flemish party Vlaams Belang is all about the need for racial purity and it argues that Belgian mothers (presumably those who are ‘white’) should be concentrating on breeding rather than working!

On Sunday May 12 a number of Green supporters emphasised this view by dressing in red hassocks with white wimples as did those in the phenomenally successful TV series Handmaid’s Tale based on the novel by Margaret Atwood.

One of Gruen leaders said “The extreme right is a danger to our way of living together. And we are all on their list, although some

groups are higher up the list than others.

“If it depends on Vlaams Belang, the clock will be turned back to times when women had little say over their own bodies. They want to decide if and when you, as a woman, should start having children. Is it an unwanted pregnancy? Then they want to restrict your right to an abortion.”

As was to be expected, a spokesperson for Vlaams Belang rejected this accusation.

Time to call it a day

AS I get older I wonder why I can recall things like the Littlewoods catalogue, the bloke that came round to collect your football coupons, the milkman, the corona lemonade man, Smiths crisps with the salt in a little blue twisty thing, a mangle, chocolate wagon wheels that were so big you couldn’t hold them in one hand and if you lived in the East End of London, and maybe other poorer parts of the country, the Tally man, who was actually just a debt collector, that used to come for the payments for stuff you had bought on tick (credit), but I can’t remember why I’ve wandered into the kitchen or where I put my sunglasses or car keys, or why I thought this would be a good way to start this week’s grumps!

OK on to a more serious thing - Eurovision Song Contest. It’s time to call it a day. I was never a great lover of it, too long, too many crap songs and the voting was always a bit suspicious with a lot of them being political neighbouring countries voting for each other. But the last couple have been chaos. The politics now are beyond belief

Mike’s

and the songs are terrible. The costumes they wear and the make-up are ridiculous. One country refused to mention another country by name, another blanked out the name and the little gob shites that perform are all of a sudden political experts. If they do continue with this tired worn out show performers should be told, go on stage, sing your song and f*** off to the green room and wait to see what happens.

Anyone else like liquorice? For gawd’s sake don’t read what happens if you eat too much of it. Apart from the thing we all know it does, there are some pretty horrific side effects. I bet you didn’t know it can give you high blood pressure, fluid retention, hepatitis, headache, swelling (doesn’t say where), dental plaque, muscle cramps and, of course, everybody’s favourite - erectile dysfunction!!! Plus the sweetener they use is 30-50 times sweeter than sugar.

Lastly, stop messing about with popular TV shows. Mock the Week - gone. A Question of Sport - cancelled because the BBC cocked it up, plus many more and I fear Dr Who will not be far behind with the new black gay Dr. I have no problem with being black or gay of course, it’s just that Dr Who isn’t either and that’s just a fact.

Email: mikesenker@gmail.com

VIEWS OF A GRUMPY OLD MAN

MIKE SENKER IN MY OPINION

Photo: Flickr CC / a Credit: BBVA, Flickr Dekker

BBVA’s director, Carlos Torres Vila.

Supporters of the Gruen Party showed their commitment.

Credit: Gruen Party

PETS

HouseSitMatch sitters are pet lovers

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 Hou seSitMatch.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 petsitting works as an exchange of services - free accommodation for free pet care!

HouseSitMatch is Safe – All Members Are Checked

All members are checked for

Our pet sitters are pet lovers and will take time to get to know your pets.

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:

1. Register as a homeow-

ner on HouseSitMatch.com

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

3. Create a profile with photos of your pets and home

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

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.

Tom Curry, pet owner, Spain

How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com

Need a pet or house-sitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation! Reader exclusive offer - 20% Off Any New Membership Register as either house-sitter or homeowner. Get a 20% discount - Use coupon code PERFECT20.

The Comedy Pet Photography Awards

PAUL JOYSON-HICKS and Tom Sullam set up the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards a few years ago and were amazed at the success.

This spurred them on to launch the Comedy Pet Photography Awards with a cash prize of £500 for the best overall photo.

There are 30 finalists in the 2024 competition and you can vote for your favourite, by clicking on the image on the website ( comedypetphoto. com ), leave your email address, and that’s it.

You will automatically be entered into a prize draw to win £100 and the overall winner will be announced on June 6. And if you would like to enter an image in the competition next time around it’s easy: you pay £5 to enter five fabulous images or videos, if you pay £10 you can enter 15 extraordinary images or videos.

Lots of people ask the founders why they run the competition and Paul responded: “Through the Comedy Pets, we want to promote positive awareness of animal welfare issues and celebrate the incredible and valuable contribution that pets can and do have on our lives.”

Because behind the funny images and videos of the competition, there is a very serious and fundamental message to help, respect and care for animals in the most humane way possible.

So check out the website now.

PLUMBING

SOLAR ENERGY

POOL SERVICES

SHOWERS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

WASHING MACHINE BROKEN? Call Bluesky Repairs for ALL your domestic appliance repairs. 626 430 671 (WhatsApp) (305215) ARCHITECTS

BUY & SELL

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

I BUY RECORDS 50s to the 90s. Best prices for good records. Tel: 622 750 117 / 962 851 809 (304600)

BUSINESS OPP

LOOKING for silent partner in private care home, near Alicante.50k buy in, 50 %. 20 k net per year return. Call 747 4382 25. (305759) FOR SALE: ENGLISH Mini Market on large urbanization. No competition. Same owners for 17 years. Sale due to retirement. Opening hours 9.00am to 5.00pm. Tel: 966 455 491. (305817) CARE HOME

PRIVATE CARE HOME Full Board and Care. Also, Dementia care. British Owned near Alicante. Luxurious Villa. €1,200 per month. Call 747 438 225 (305685)

EL CAMPELLO CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY – Life and Family

Sunday Service at 11 a.m. Bilingual (English and Spanish) at San Bartolome, 35 (Bajo No. 6), El Campello.For more information visit www.elcampel lochristiancommunity.org, email campellocc@gmail.com or call Juan Zúñiga – 686203183 (Spanish) or Jim Eaton680594134 (English). (233602)

THE SALVATION ARMY English Speaking Church of Denia Worship Service. Sunday 10.30am followed by a time of Fellowship. Everyone is welcome. Come as you are! For more information: Dieter Zimmerer +34 698 609 658 or Barbara Zimmerer +34 652 319 810 Email dieterzimmerer@ hotmail.com, www.centrosaron. com (10008) www.helpbenidorm.org and on Facebook VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, particularly if you speak Spanish, and have a car (although this is not essential). Tel President 607 387 040. We are an English-speaking charity that assists residents and tourists of all nationalities in times of crisis. We meet every Thursday at 11am in Jose Llorca Social Centre C. Goya s/n. Benidorm. We loan out mobility and medical equipment including oxygen concentrators on a short-term basis. (288658)

THE AIRCREW ASSOCIATION COSTA BLANCA This association, formed in 1988, exists to foster comradeship amongst those who, having been awarded an official flying badge, have qualified to operate military aircraft and are serving or have served, as military aircrew in the armed forces of the United Kingdom or those nations which are allies of the United Kingdom or the Commonwealth. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN JOINING THIS POPULAR ASSOCIATION, CALL the Secretary on 966 495 228. (295990)

THE ALFAZ SPIRITUAL FRIENDS CENTRE OFFER A WARM WELCOME AT ‘THE COMM’ - (EX THE FORUM/MARE NOSTRUM) CAMINO DEL PINCHO 2, L’ALFAZ DEL PI, 03580 ALICANTE. VISITING MEDIUM EVERY WEEK - SERVICE STARTS 6.30PM EVERY THURSDAY. CONTACT DOT 634 320 013. EMAIL  dorothydorothy608@ gmail.com (295995)

COUNSELLING

COUNSELLING Therapy with

care. Amanda 679 780 039. amandavpyott@gmail.com. ACCPH Accredited. (305433)

ELECTRICIAN

MB ELECTRICS. Approved electrician. Any electrical repair. Iberdrola paperwork. Affordable prices. Miquel 655 282 175 www.mbelectrics.es (305117)

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

ALL METAL WORK AND MOBILE WELDING. +44 7787 585 714 (302963)

GOLD WANTED

insurances available. Policies in English. BEST rates, covers & service. Immediate quotes. Tel 961 129 215 / 622 275 561, (WhatsApp) info@bene ficialinsuranceinspain.com or visit www.beneficialinsuranceinspain.com for online quote. (303245)

MOTOR INSURANCE. For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 952 147 834, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 952 147 834 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726)

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

MASSAGE

PROFESSIONAL TANTRA

MASSAGE in Denia. Ritual and deep relaxation. Teya: 692 450 679. (304390)

HEALTH & BEAUTY

WIGS

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INSURANCE

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BENEFICIAL INSURANCE

SERVICES. Car, Home, Business, Travel, Life, Funeral, all

MISCELLANEOUS

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

MOTORBIKES

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MOTORING

RELAX CENTRE in BENIDORM - Excellent atmosphere. Expert Masseuses. 24/7 Outcalls - Tel: 603 324 564 (305206)

NATURIST male gives relaxing massage €50. For men and women. Private and discreet at my home in Jávea, WhatsApp Rob on 613 831 380 (305902)

ENCHANTING Tantra Massage in serene location in City Centre Denia. Whatsapp +4915255415183. www.tantra massagedenia.com (305843)

METAL WORK

AUTO BASTIAN mobile mechanic. Tel 608 860 725. (290141)

WE are currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been

to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on

BUGGY TOURS

CLASSIFIEDS II euroweeklynews.com

PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR

PRIVATE Investigator, Debts Collected, Bad Tenants, Solicitor Services. 747 438 225 (305759)

PROPERTY WANTED

RETIRED couple looking for long term rental in La Marina Baixaprefer two beds. Needed urgently - call Janice on 0044 7736 251 800 (279523)

COSTA BLANCA CASASVilla rentals. Do you still want to rent your property this summer?  It’s not too late ! Give us a call 0034 666 327 729 (300282)

REMOVALS/STORAGE

BENIDORM and surrounding areas. Two-man removal. 622 658 992 (304544)

COSTA LESS EXPRESS, small removals and deliveries. Spain/UK budget prices. Urgent jobs undertaken www. costalessexpress.co.uk Pet transport also arranged in our air-conditioned pet/people carriers. Tel: UK (0044) 01256 244657 (302827)

MAN & VAN for hire, cheap & reliable. Jalon Valley & surrounding area. Call/Whatsapp 636 100 873 (300290)

ROLLER SHUTTERS

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992 www.toldosalchemy.com (303757)

SITUATIONS VACANT

BLUE SQUARE REAL ESTATE is currently searching for Sales Executives to work in the Denia / Oliva area. A training package is provided and excellent incentives. Multilingual candidates, Spanish, French, Dutch and German are sought after. Please email hr@ blue-square.com your CV (304549)

STRUCTURAL SURVEYS

MARK PADDON BSc Hons. MCIOB, CAAT – for buyer’s survey & defects advice. Tel: 653 733 066 / 962 807 247 www.costab lancasurveyors.com (294923)

WANTED

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

BROKEN or unwanted gold jewellery, watches or coins. IMMEDIATE Cash Payment. Call Peter 617 550 016 (304960)

If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

New MG3 supermini tuned for the UK

By Mark Slack ROAD

TEST

THE MG3 was the first small MG to be launched post Rover and has proved highly popular thanks to keen pricing and good levels of equipment. Now the Chinese owned brand has re vealed all-new MG3 Hybrid+ su permini and it promises to be equally popular, if not more gi ven the information released so far. Now available to order, the range starts with the Hybrid+ SE from €21,593/£18,495 OTR, with the even more generously equipped Trophy model available from €23,928/£20,495 OTR. MG also offers a seven-year/80,000-mile warranty.

Both MG3 Hybrid+ models come with dual screen technology, 16” alloy whe els, satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto, MG Pilot and a reversing camera. MG Pilot Safety includes Autonomous Emergency Braking, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Emergency Lane Keep Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control.

and steering wheel, keyless entry, pri vacy glass, rain sensing wipers and LED projector headlights.

The Trophy MG3 Hybrid+ delivers more standard equipment including a

At the heart of the new MG3 is its Hybrid+ powertrain which has a larger than average battery (1.83kWh) and high-performance electric motor (100kW) enabling the MG3 to go fully electric for city driving, which sets it apart from many other hybrid superminis. For longer journeys, the-

re is the reassurance of a 1.5-litre petrol engine. Advanced, smart features of Hybrid+ include a drive and charge system that allows the petrol engine to drive the wheels whilst also charging the battery through the generator. The MG3 Hybrid+ returns economy in the order of 4.41l per 100km/64mpg and 100g/km of CO2.

Drivers can tailor the MG3’s responsiveness with the choice of three driving modes: Eco, Standard and Sport. Combined power is 143kW giving the MG3 a sprightly 0-100kph/062mph time of 8.0 seconds.

Mid-range acceleration covers the 80-112kph/5070mph benchmark in 5.0 seconds. The MG3 Hybrid+ chassis and suspension has also been specifically tuned for UK roads - similar to the agile MG4 - by the company’s Longbridge-based enginee-

David Allison, Head of Product and Planning for MG Motor UK, commented: “There is still a very strong demand for the affordable, practical and fun-todrive supermini and we believe the MG3 Hybrid+ will appeal to many customers. Like all MG models we’re confident that if you simply wish to drive this MG for something other than daily commuting, it will offer a fun and involving experience.”

WE have to go back to the 19th century, 1884 to be precise, that was the year in which the world’s first electric vehicle (EV) went into production.

The man responsible for the world’s first EV was Thomas Parker, the British inventor who was also behind the electrification of the London Underground. He created the first EV in an early attempt to reduce the smog and pollution which plagued London at the time. So nothing much has changed with London’s congestion charge and the UK goverment pushing everyone towards EVs still making the headlines today.

Going back to the beginning and in 1889, Flocken Elektrowagen, built by the inventor Flocken, hit the streets of Germany and was the first known electric car to be driven on public roads.

In 1898, Ferdinand Porsche, today a name associated with high end sports cars, designed the Egger-Lohner C.2 Phaeton. The vehicle was powered by an electric motor and reached a top speed of 25 kilometres an hour.

In 1899, Porsche developed the electric wheel hub motor and in 1900, launched the first Lohner-Porsche Electromobile, which could reach a top speed of 37 kilometres an hour, at the Expo

in Paris. The reason the company gave at the time for producing this early EV was because, “the air was ruthlessly spoiled by the large number of petrol engines in use”. Mercedes-Benz also produced an electric model in 1906 called the Mercedes Mixte. The car was frequently used as a taxi in Germany’s cities and even took part in ra-

ces during 1907.

By the early 1900s, as many as one third of all vehicles on the road in the USA were electric. But that was about to change with the arrival of a man synonimous with modern motor cars, Henry Ford. The mass production of petrol driven cars, and in particular, the Model T, meant that by the 1920s, EVs had all but disappea-

red with car owners preferring the new accessible models.

Even back then, the public cited the same reasons as now for switching to petrol: despite improvements in battery technology, EVs still had limited range and the charging infrastructure made anything but very short journeys impractical.

Van surge Electric cars are much older than you think

ACCORDING to the latest vehicle licensing statistics released by the UK government, there has been a notable increase in the number of cars on the road.

The number has now reached a record high of nearly 33.6 million.

However, the growth rate of cars over recent years hasn’t kept pace with that of new light goods vehicles (LGVs), including vans, which have seen a significant surge due to the boom in home deliveries.

Since the end of 2014, the number of LGVs has increased by 32 per cent, rising from 3.6 million to 4.7 million, whereas cars have only seen a 10 per cent increase over the same period.

In the last five years, the number of LGVs has risen by 14 per cent, whereas

car numbers have gone up by just 3 per cent.

In contrast, the number of buses and coaches on UK roads has declined by 16 per cent since the end of 2014, dropping from nearly 169,000 to 141,300 by the end of last year.

This decline is concerning, especially given the significant investments being made to improve bus travel infrastructu re, such as the construction of more bus lanes.

The decrease in bus availability may contribute to the continued reliance on cars for transportation.

On a positive note, the number of die sel vehicles on the roads is at its lowest level since 2015, which is encouraging news for air quality improvement efforts.

Man City’s historic win

A PITCH invasion by fans rather dampened what should have been a really exciting end of the Premier League season with Manchester City beating West Ham.

It really did come down to the last match of the season with City beating West Ham 3 -1 whilst Arsenal had to be content with second place winning 2-1 against Everton which left them two points adrift.

Two Premier League managers, David Moyes of West Ham and Jurgen Klopp of Liverpool were in charge for the last time and whilst Klopp is taking a year off, Moyes will probably find another role in the not too distant future.

At the other end of the table although it was already confirmed that Sheffield United and Burnley would be relegated, it was down to the last match of the season with Nottingham Forest beating Burnley 2-1 to keep the Premier League status

Champions League

whilst Luton Town who lost 2-4 to Fulham drop back to the Championship.

Next season which kicks off in August will welcome back Leicester City and Ipswich whilst Leeds United and Southampton have to meet at Wembley on Sunday May 26 to decide which team will also be promoted.

This match follows the FA Cup Final which sees Manchester City take on Manchester Utd, May 25.

THE 2023/2024 UEFA Champions League season will end with a tight match between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund on June 1, in Wembley Stadium in London.

This will be the 69th season for Europe’s top players, held for the eighth time in the grand London venue. Renowned for being the ‘Home of Football’, Wembley has hosted seven European Cup finals.

This year on June 1, Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund will

compete for the UEFA Champions League trophy.

Fourteen-time champions, Real Madrid, are still celebrating their latest 4-3 triumph over Bayern Munich and will compete against Borussia Dortmund, who were the first to confirm their place in the final with a 2-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain.

Football fans across the globe are now placing their bets, with a large betting on Real Madrid, who have won as recently as 2022.

“Real Madrid should win the match with its overwhelming attacking talent,” said football expert Joe Tansey.

The sports critic, Kyle Bonn, also stated “Borussia Dortmund are extremely well-coached, but they concede far too many chances.”

Despite Borussia Dortmund not having previous League experience, with their latest exultant triumph over Paris Saint-Germain, some are betting on a successful debut.

Real Madrid Champions.

Credit: Real Madrid C.F., Facebook

City mascot Moonchester over the moon with the latest victory.

Credit: Manchester City FC X