Axarquia 30 May – 5 June 2024 Issue 2030

Flying high

THE town of Comares recently hosted a remarkable event as Jesús Calleja and his team from the Spanish TV station Cuatro graced the town with their presence. Their mission? To capture the essence of this inland rural town for the popular TV programme ‘Volando Voy,’ (I’m Flying). This show, renowned for its exploration of unique places and cultures, couldn’t have chosen a more fitting locale than Comares.

Against the backdrop of the picturesque Plaza Balcón de la Axarquia, the crew flew in by helicopter to the heart of the community and conducted interviews with both locals and those from neighbouring towns. They focused on a local animal charity Protectora de Animales de Lorena to support their cause.

AMONG the multitude of beaches dotting the Malaga region, one stands out as the best, earning the prestigious title of being the only Malaga beach to grace the list of the top 50 in Spain. According to Condé Nast Traveler magazine, the crown jewel of Malaga’s coastline is the Balcón de Europa Beach in Nerja. Its fine sand and Mediterranean horizon make it a must-visit spot in the region.

Nerja’s Beach isn’t just a local jewel; it’s a national treasure. With 14 kilometres of coastline, Nerja boasts some of Andalucia’s most stunning beaches. Among them is the globally

For Comares, this spotlight represents more than just a television appearance. It’s an opportunity to showcase the town’s rich history, vibrant culture, and the warmth of its people to a wider audience.

Moreover, the visit comes as a testament to the efforts of the local government and the community as a whole, who have worked tirelessly to ensure everything ran smoothly. While the exact air date of

Nerja’s pride

the episode remains pending, the buzz generated by the event promises to leave a lasting impression, not just on Comares, but on all who tune in to experience its charm through the lens of ‘Volando Voy.’

renowned Burriana Beach, honoured with the Blue Flag distinction by the European Union and famed as the backdrop for the beloved series ‘Verano Azul’ (Blue Summer).

With such accolades and natural beauty, it’s no wonder that Nerja’s beaches draw visitors from far and wide, seeking sun, sand, and a slice of paradise along the Spanish coast.

Community heroes

IN a remarkable display of community spirit, Lux Mundi’s Food Drive Torre del Mar, achieved a milestone this month. Volunteers rallied together to provide essential aid to families in need within the Torre del Mar vicinity. The end of May saw an extraordinary effort as volunteers diligently packed bags, ultimately benefiting 116 individuals, comprising 71 adults and 45 children.

The success of this endeavour is credited to the collective efforts of volunteers who tirelessly packed, shopped, delivered, and donated items. Their dedication and selflessness highlight the ethos of community support. Without their invaluable contributions, this initiative would not have been possible. The organisers extend their heartfelt gratitude to all involved, recognising their pivotal role in effecting positive change within the local community.

Axarquia • Issue No. 2030 • 30 May - 5 June 2024

Volando Voy captures rural charm.

Volunteers shine bright.

Image: Torre Del Mar Food Drive

Discover Nerja’s coastal magic.

Catherine McGeer FRANCISCO SALADO, President of the Diputación de Malaga, emphasised the crucial need for pivotal projects to ensure the province’s future growth. These projects include extending the coastal train to Algeciras and enhancing hydraulic infrastructures and roads while waiving or reducing tolls on the Costa del Sol highway. He voiced these concerns at the ‘New Challenges, New Scenarios’ forum recently under the theme ‘Malaga in (R)evolution’.

Joined by CEM President Javier González de Lara, Unicaja CEO Isidro Rubiales, and CEM’s Executive Vice President Natalia Sánchez, Salado highlighted Malaga’s role as Andalucia’s economic and technological engine. He warned that despite

Malaga’s rapid growth, persistent deficits such as water scarcity and transport and traffic issues could impede progress.

Salado advocated for urgent action on pending road constructions and extending the coastal train. He urged accelerated hydraulic

projects and demanded governmental support for infrastructure development.

Additionally, he highlighted Malaga’s technological revolution, diversification beyond tourism, and commitment to environmental sustainability through green initiatives.

Future projects Sanctuary struggles

Beach security

THE recent restoration efforts along the cliffs of El Cantal in Rincon de la Victoria reflect the area’s commitment to combating vandalism. After the destruction of about 200 metres of wooden fencing recently, the Beach Department of Rincon de la Victoria swiftly took action. Through the installation of 50 new wooden posts, at a cost of €3,316.61, the area’s safety and aesthetics were restored.

Sergio Díaz, councillor of Beaches and Infrastructure, emphasised the importance of securing such heavily trafficked tourist spots. Mayor Francisco Salado condemned the vandalistic acts, urging everyone to uphold civic responsibility. The incident not only tarnishes the town’s image but also burdens local finances.

As Rincon de la Victoria appeals for collective vigilance, it highlights the communal duty to safeguard public spaces.

IN a recent update from Sarja Microsanctuary in Competa, the completion of a much-needed wall stands as a testament to community support. Thanks to a successful GoFundMe campaign and Easter Raffle, €1,490 was raised, marking a significant step forward for the sanctuary. However, the victory is tempered by fi nancial realities. The total cost of the project amounted to €2,900, leaving a shortfall of €1,441. With empty fundraising coffers and a lack of new Patreon members since March, the sanctuary finds

Adding to the strain are unexpected vet bills and rising food costs. The sanctuary appeals to supporters for assistance, offering various avenues for contribu-

IN Benajarafe Alto, the Velez-Malaga Town Hall is addressing issues with low water pressure. Mayor Jesús Lupiáñez, Infrastructure councillor Jesús María Claros, and deputy mayor of Benajarafe, Rocío Ruiz, announced that they are implementing necessary

tion, including one-time donations, monthly Patreon support, participation in fundraising events, and hosting individual fundraisers. Every contribution, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in ensuring the

Water pressure

measures to resolve this problem.

The project aims to improve the water supply for residents. Additionally, similar actions will be taken in other areas of the municipality facing

the same issue. This initiative demonstrates the commitment of the local government to enhance the quality of life for its residents by ensuring reliable access to essential services like water.

Building Malaga’s tomorrow.

Car Boot Sale

THE car boot sale that is held the first Sunday of every month will take place on June 2 at Restaurant El Pantano on the A356 towards Colmenar overlooking the lake. The timetable is from 9.30am until 1pm. For more info call 633 878 471.

Foster buddy

THE Axarquia Animal Rescue charity has introduced a new way to foster an abandoned animal with their foster buddy system. Have you always wanted to help out but due to regular commitments you find it difficult? Join the buddy system and share the responsibilities with a friend. For info email axarquia-res cue@hotmail.com

Charity shop

THE Lux Mundi charity shop in Torre del Mar is in need of women’s summer clothes, shoes, and handbags. Due a cleanout? Drop your items to Lux Mundi and support a good cause. For more info call 952 543 334.

Night run

THE Velez-Malaga Town Hall has opened the registration for the night run on June 22 and you can sign up at atletismo velez.es until June 18.

Discover Torrox

SITUATED along the sun-kissed Costa del Sol in Axarquia, Torrox attracts a diverse array of visitors, with German and British tourists being particularly common. Divided into two distinct sections, Torrox Costa hugs the coastline while Torrox Pueblo lies inland, o ering a glimpse into traditional Andalucian life just 4 km away.

Torrox’s rich history is evident in its architecture and culture, shaped by the in uences of Phoenicians, Romans, and Arabs over the centuries. These civilisations have left their mark on the town’s development, creating a rich mix of history that adds to the charm.

The town’s economy thrives on two main pillars: tourism and agriculture. Tourism ourishes, espe-

cially in coastal areas like Torrox-Costa, El Morche, and Peñoncillo, drawing visitors with its sandy beaches and azure waters. Meanwhile, traditional agriculture remains vital, with greenhouses dotting the landscape,

Summer project

producing a bounty of vegetables, fruits, tropical produce, and almonds.

Nature enthusiasts will

Torrox markets

EVERY Monday from 9am to 2pm, Torrox comes alive with its bustling market, the Torrox Mercadillo on Torrox coast.

Situated between Avenida Esperanto and Avenida Mediterráneo, this market o ers an array of goods across its 130 stalls. From fresh produce to fashion, accessories, crafts, and home decor, it caters to all tastes. Visitors can stroll through the stalls, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Meanwhile, the Torrox Pueblo market, also held on Mondays from 9am to 2pm along Avenida de la Competa, o ers a more intimate experience with 30 stalls.

El Morche and Los Llanos also have their own weekly markets also on Monday with the same timetable.

Torrox usually hosts a ‘night market’ during the summer from 6pm to midnight on the Paseo Maritimo de Ferrara.

Hiking adventures

TORROX o ers adventurers plenty of hiking trails to explore. From rugged mountain paths to scenic coastal routes, there’s something for hikers of all skill levels to enjoy.

One of the most popular hiking routes in Torrox is the ‘Ruta de los Molinos’ or the Route of the Mills. This trail winds through the tranquil countryside, passing by ancient olive groves and historic watermills.

For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Sierra de Tejeda o ers se-

veral rugged trails that lead to stunning viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean. The ascent to the summit of Mount Maroma, the highest peak in the region, is a particularly rewarding experience.

For a coastal hiking experience, the Torrox Coastal Path o ers unparalleled views of the sparkling Mediterranean waters. This scenic route follows the coastline from Torrox Costa to nearby villages, passing by secluded coves, rocky cli s, and pristine beaches.

Additionally, the Rio Torrox Trail provides a refreshing escape into nature, following the course of the Rio Torrox through lush green valleys and dense forests.

nd solace in Torrox’s local countryside, home to a unique species - the monarch butter y, now extinct elsewhere in Europe. Nine kilometres of pristine beaches o er ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation, supporting the town’s tourism industry. Moreover, rural tourism is on the rise in Torrox, with local craft workshops o ering immersive experiences in silk and cloth painting, glass pottery, and woodwork. These activities provide a deeper connection to the town’s culture and traditions. All these elements combine to make Torrox an unforgettable destination. A whitewashed paradise.

THE Torrox Costa Senior Centre is set for a signi cant expansion this summer, as announced by the town hall. With an investment of €109,000, the acquisition of the adjacent property will add nearly 90 square metres to the existing facilities. Paula Moreno, Torrox’s rst deputy mayor and Urbanism councillor, con rmed the news. Mayor Óscar Medina expressed satisfaction with ful lling the town’s commitment to its seniors, after a month of dedicated activities for them. Moreno outlined that the expansion aims to coincide with the summer months when senior activities temporarily halt, minimising disruption to users. The new and improved centre will feature two main rooms with independent access to the street. With an initial investment of €168,000, including recent upgrades, Mayor Medina emphasised the town hall’s dedication to providing expanded facilities to accommodate the growing senior community, now totalling around 300 members.

Torrox trails.

THE mayor of Velez-Malaga, Jesús Lupiáñez, has announced the imminent start of construction on a desalination plant to remove salt from well water. This move aims to combat the drought gripping the region, with the local area reclaiming wells to address water scarcity.

Lupiáñez emphasised that this infrastructure will enhance water conditions in the local and surrounding areas by rendering well water suitable for irrigation. Collaborating with the Málaga Provincial Council and the Andalucian Regional Government, Velez-Malaga strives to enhance water quality in the middle of a drought.

A €15 million investment partnership between these institutions is set to expedite the installation of the desalination plant in wells.

The project’s benefits extend to specific areas, particularly coastal regions, and neighbouring towns like Algarrobo. Regenerated water will have reduced conductivity, facilitating irrigation of subtropical crops like avocados and mangoes.

Lupiáñez anticipates swift implementation, anticipating an immediate improvement in both drinking water and agricultural irrigation. Given La Viñuela reservoir’s meagre 18.79 per cent capacity, reliance on well water is vital for sustaining the region’s water needs.

Axarquia aid

SABOR A MALAGA teams up for a Cancer Charity Golf Tournament in Eastern Costa del Sol-Axarquia. On Saturday June 1, Baviera Golf Club will host the eagerly awaited Cancer Charity Golf Tournament in Eastern Costa del Sol-Axarquía, with Sabor a Malaga.

This annual event, organised by the Spanish Association Against Cancer in collaboration with Baviera Golf and the towns of Rincon de la Victoria, Frigiliana, Velez-Malaga, Nerja, and Torrox, is set to be a significant gathering.

Sabor a Malaga’s contribution includes local delicacies featuring local products, prepared by chef Pablo Vega from Ménade restaurant (Baviera Golf).

The tournament, now in its fourth year, will follow a Better Ball Stableford format

Desalination begins Budget boost

with two tee times, at 8.30am and 3pm. The registration fee is €65 for visitors and €50 for members and under 18s. Players will receive water, fruit, and a welcome pack during the event.

In addition to the golf, emphasis will be placed on skin cancer prevention. La Roche Posay will provide sunscreen in the welcome pack.

Funds raised will aid cancer research and support services in Axarquia, including patient transportation, psychological support, social services, provision of medical equipment, wigs, or prosthetics, and prevention campaigns. The Spanish Association Against Cancer is a leading private funder of cancer research, having allocated €114 million to 565 projects, supporting over 1,000 researchers.

THE Velez-Malaga Town Council’s government team unveiled the definitive agreement for the 2024 budget. At a staggering €127 million, these budgets mark the highest figure in the history of the area, reflecting a 15 per cent increase over the previous year. It’s a clear commitment to enhancing the locality, with significant boosts in various areas.

The increased investment in cleaning (€2.5 million more than last year) and security (creating new positions for the Local Police) highlights the government’s dedication to improving living standards. Doubling the investment in population centres demonstrates a focus on community welfare. Moreover, substantial funding for elderly care and educational facilities highlights their commit-

ment to social well-being.

The budget’s presentation by Hacienda councillor Manuel Gutiérrez and Councillor David Vilches emphasises the consensus behind these investments. This budget reflects a firm commitment to municipal growth, prioritising essential needs and longterm projects alike.

In

stitches

CROCHET fans in Periana are eagerly anticipating the upcoming World Wide Knit in Public Day celebration on Saturday June 8 at the iconic Los Pinos Park. Spearheaded by local authorities the event promises a day filled with creativity.

Participants are invited to bring their own materials or use supplies provided by the local council for the free event. A highlight of the day will be a masterclass led by the Modern Crochet Course monitor, Lidia Mostazo. Alvaro Hurtado, representing the local councillors, emphasised the importance of celebrating traditional crafts, noting the intergenerational appeal of crochet.

Gema Frías, Periana’s Culture councillor, highlighted the therapeutic benefits of crochet, including stress reduction and improved mood.

The event aims to promote a sense of community while showcasing the talents of local artisans. Periana extends a warm invitation to neighbouring towns to join in the celebration as well.

La Viñuela reservoir.

Image: Facebook/ Mari Carmen Aragon Lopez

Swinging for support.

Image: Facebook/Baviera Golf

Torrox tournament

AROUND 50 teams are gearing up to gather in Torrox for the National Beach Football Championships, from May 31 to July 7 at Ferrara Beach’s sandy pitches.

The announcement came from Sports Vice President Juan Rosas, alongside Torrox mayor Óscar Medina, and Diego Martínez, president of the National Beach Soccer Committee of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), during the event’s unveiling. This marks the fourth time Torrox hosts the tournament in a sports zone hailed as ‘among Europe’s nest’ by the mayor.

Rosas emphasised Torrox’s appeal: boasting ‘Europe’s best climate’ and top-tier beach sports facilities. The area hosts various beach sports competitions, including football, handball, and beach volleyball.

Tourist tax Nordic bonds

LOS NÓRDICOS de Almuñecar, a non-profit association dedicated to promoting mutual understanding and friendship between Spanish people and Nordic people, recently made its presence felt at Associations Day in El Majuelo Park in Almuñecar.

The event served as a platform for various associations to showcase their missions and activities, and Los Nórdicos seized the opportunity to spread awareness about its goals.

During the event, the association not only informed visitors about its mission but also tantalised taste buds by selling freshly made ‘Swedish’ waffles with strawberry jam and cream. The initiative proved fruitful as they managed to raise €160, which will be donated to Madres Solas (Single Mothers), a commendable gesture of support.

A heartfelt thank you was extended to the 15 dedicated members who manned the booth throughout the day, contributing to the success of the event. Furthermore, the chairman, Helena, was honoured to receive a diploma from the municipality, alongside other participating associations, acknowledging their valuable contributions.

Catherine McGeer ANDALUCIA will not be implementing a tourist tax at this time, as officials consider it ‘premature.’ The decision came after a meeting in Malaga between the Junta, representatives of Andalucian municipalities, and business leaders. Instead, they agreed to establish an ‘observatory for local tourism sustainability under the Andalucian Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FAMP).’ This observatory or tourist research group will focus on issues like financing, public services, housing, and social coexistence problems associated with tourism.

Tourism has both positive and negative impacts on Andalucian society. While it generates significant economic benefits, such as 415,000 jobs and infrastructure improvements, it also brings challenges like gentrification, increased tourist housing, and disruptive behaviours like ‘drunk tourism’. The new research group aims to gather data and insights to ensure tourism growth is socially sustainable. The goal is to balance the industry’s development with the well-being of local residents, ensuring that the benefits of tourism do not come at the expense of community harmony.

Balancing growth and community.

Spreading Nordic warmth.

Not-so-level crossing Baguette bonanza

FRANCE has reclaimed the record for the longest baguette by baking an impressive bread measuring 140.53 metres (461.05 feet).

To help you picture the size, the baguette is longer than an American football field, which measures 109.7 metres (360 feet).

The record-breaking event was organised by the Municipality of Suresnes, the Confédération National de la Boulangerie-Pâtisserie Française, and Nutella.

This new record beats the previous one of 132.62 metres (435 feet 1 inch) set by Croce Rossa Italiana - Comitato della Provincia di Como in Como, Italy, on June 16, 2019.

Determined to break the record, 18 bakers from Suresnes and across Fran ce started baking the baguette at 3.00am.

Thanks to the construc tion of a custom-built mo ving oven, the baguette was shaped and baked continuously for over 11 hours.

According to Guinness World Records’ guidelines, the baguette could only be made using flour, water, salt,

and yeast.

The most challenging part of baking the baguette was ensuring it didn’t break and held together in one piece, as any cracks or breakage would have disqualified the attempt.

Throughout the day, spectators were entertained by local performances and a bread-making workshop for children.

Final inspections of the baguette were undertaken by Official Adjudicator Joanne Brent at 4.15pm, who confirmed the attempt was successful.

After the event, parts of the baguette were donated to the Celije Association for distribution to people in need, and the rest was spread with Nutella and shared with the public.

THE Oslo gover nment’s stricter controls over its border with Rus sia has generally been welcomed by Norway’s po pulation.

In contrast, Russia maintai ned that tighte ning up the bor der crossing for all those lacking “a necessary or important” motive for entering Norway was “discrimina tory.”

Although the stringent rules are not directed specifically at them, they will have most impact on Russian tourists who enter Norway via the border east of Kirkenes, from where they usually travel to other European destinations.

NORWEGIAN

been infiltrating Norway’s businesses, universities and civic organisations “for

Berg, who admitted acting as a courier for Norway’s military intelligence, was arrested when visiting Moscow in 2017 and released after spending 23 months in prison. He has now returned to

He fully supported closing Norway’s borders to Russian tourists, Berg said: “It’s about time the Norwegian government tightened border controls.”

BORDER: Russia isn’t so far away.

In fact the authorities wish to prevent potential spies from entering and collecting information about Norwegian infrastructure.

Frode Berg, a former border official who was imprisoned in Russia for spying, told the Aftenposten newspaper that he believed Russian agents have

In the past residents on both sides of the border could move freely between both countries, but friction with Russia has increased since the Ukraine invasion in February 2022. Meanwhile, entry will still be allowed for those with residence permits on both sides of the border as well as Russian citizens who study or work in Norway or Schengen countries which allow free movement over borders.

Universal charger

NO more hassle; starting from 2025, all electronic devices will have the same charger.

The Spanish Council of Ministers approved the change in the sale of electronic gadgets. The Spanish

market is now transforming with the introduction of the universal charger; adapted to every device.

The Spanish government will apply the EU directive to provide a universal USB Type C charger in 2025.

Spain’s Minister of Digital Transformation, Jose Luis Escriva, revealed that from next year, all mobile phones, tablets and cameras sold in Spain will have the same USB type C charging port. The change will have to be followed by all manufacturers, including the production of video game consoles, speakers, navigating systems and laptops; for the latter, the enforcement will begin in April 2026.

With this ground-breaking development, there will be no need to carry a set of chargers or worry about not being able to find a charger that matches your phone; the universal USB type C port will allow us to always stay connected.

The European Commission shared that the new obligation will lead to more re-use of chargers and will help consumers “save up to €250 million a year on unnecessary charger purchases,” marking a breakthrough in the world of technology.

The longest baguette.

Image: Guinness Book of Records.

Wolf packs

THERE could be as many as 56 packs of wolves in the Netherlands in the near future, say local authorities.

Nine wolf packs currently inhabit the country and can increase by 23-56 per cent in the future, according to the WUR (Wageningen University and Research).

The research evaluated the types of landscapes which the wolves tend to choose, focusing on population density and climate. It is estimated that if signicantly selective, the animals are likely to overtake the Veluwe region and southeastern Flevoland.

hence the di culty to predict their future habitats.

The ecologist at the WUR, Dennis Lammertsma, explained that their choice “depends on all kinds of factors,” including the amount of children born. In their nature, the animals adapt easily,

Today, there are seven packs in the Veluwe, one in central Drenthe, and one in the border area of Friesland, Drenthe and Overjissel.

While in 2020, the majority of Dutch residents were stated to welcome the packs, 42 per cent of

the citizens are now concerned about their rapid expansion.

The European Commission is currently investigating whether the wolf’s protected status should be reconsidered, as the Ministry of Agriculture communicates with the local government about the associated risks.

Longer charity hours

SAMARITANS IN SPAIN are extending the operational hours of their service on a three-month trial basis.

From Saturday June 1, callers will be able to contact them via their FREEPHONE number

900 525 100 up to midnight every day. During this time they will assess the number of calls taken with a view to making a permanent change.

President, Donna Williams said: “We have an ultimate goal to extend our service to be 24 hourly and this is a big step towards that. This has been made achievable thanks to the number of volunteers that have stepped forward to be available to take calls late at night.”

Samaritans in Spain’s objective is to enable people of any age who are experiencing fee-

lings of distress or despair, including those who may be at risk of suicide, to receive confidential emotional support. Their service is available to all English

speakers, irrespective of nationality who reside in mainland Spain and the Islands.

Further information can be found at www. samaritansinspain.com .

Summer opening

Summer is here.

SUMMER will quickly be upon us, meaning an important change in the locations designated as Areas of High Tourist In ux. These are the municipalities or parts thereof where the weighted average population is expected to be signi cantly higher than the number of residents. As a result, shops and supermarkets in these areas will be permitted to change their summer opening times and days to include Sundays and public holidays.

The dates that are considered the ‘summer period’ vary by region as follows:

Valencian Community - Saturday June 15 until Sunday September 15

Costa del Sol, Costa de Almeria, Axar-

quia - Saturday June 1 until Monday September 30

Murcia - Thursday June 20 until Friday September 20

Balearics – Friday March 15 until Wednesday October 30

Furthermore, Cartagena has been declared an Area of Great Tourist In ux by Order of January 14, 2013, of the Ministries of Universities, Business, and Research. It has been split into two zones, with Zone 1 free to open throughout the year and Zone 2 the same between Friday, March 22 and Monday September 30. Zone 2 covers the Commercial area of the Cabezo Beaza Industrial Estate and is limited to the area of Parque y Espacio Mediterraneo.

Photo credit: CC/Nicolo Caranti

A lone wolf.

Credit: Amar Saleem, Pexels

IRELAND

In a fix

A UNITED AIRLINES Zurich-Chicago flight was diverted to Shannon after a passenger’s laptop became wedged in their seat when the aircraft was over the Atlantic. Engineers freed the laptop within minutes of landing but passengers had to spend the night in Ireland as the crew had by then flown maximum hours.

Dance off

THE Irish Dancing Commission (CLRG) confirmed in Dublin on May 22 that it would not be taking further disciplinary action against 44 teachers and judges accused of rigging the results of Irish Dancing competitions for several years. According to the BBC, there had been “an issue” with finding a suitable witness for the process.

Royal visit

THE two-day visit to Norway by the UK’s Princess Anne included a visit to the Resistance Museum accompanied by her godson, Crown Prince Haakon. Located in Oslo’s Akershus Fortress, the museum features equipment, photos and documents from the 1940-1945 Nazi occupation during the Second World War.

Pass mark

JUST over 91 per cent of 5,333 immigrants eligible for Norwegian citizenship passed tests last year that were introduced in 2017 to measure their knowledge of Norwegian life and society. “We can only congratulate them,” said a satisfied Tonje Brenna, the minister responsible for Labour and Social Inclusion

EURO PRESS

Big cats

SWEDEN

Less hassle

PORTUGAL BELGIUM

THE World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) said that Belgium and areas in adjoining countries could provide a viable habitat for around 75 lynxes in the wild. The last wild lynx was seen in Belgium a century ago, but wildlife cameras have intermittently spotted one animal in the Semois Valley since August 2020.

FRANCE

Tuna time

BLUEFIN tuna fishing began off Tavira Island in the Algarve with a catch of 100 fish, the largest of which weighed in at 330 kilos. Fishermen used the Mediterranean’s traditional and sustainable “almadraba” method where boats set up a huge structure of nets between them, instead of trawling, which damages the seabed.

Playing safe

PRIME MINISTER Luis Montenegro declared that despite the presence of “certain crimes,” Portugal was one of the safest countries in Europe, although the Annual Security Report (RASI) registered an overall rise in the crime rate. It also revealed that violent crime had increased throughout mainland Portugal.

Me too

APPLICANTS for a Swedish work or student’s permit will now be able to verify their passports by using an online app instead of having to visit a Swedish embassy. The scheme will benefit 19,000 workers and 5,000 students living in one of 23 countries which include the UK, the US, Australia and Canada.

Not listed

AHN-ZA HAGSTROM, head of the Terrorist Threat Assessment Centre (NCT), said Sweden was no longer a priority for terror propagandists. The threat level was raised in August 2023 following the Koran burnings, but Isis and Al Qaeda were now focusing on this summer’s big sporting events, Hagstrom said.

FINLAND NORWAY

AS women in France’s armed forces reveal more details of the abuse and violence they experience, the military authorities are increasingly inundated with complaints, Le Monde newspaper said. An investigation also found that women were routinely penalised for reporting abuse, while attackers remained in their posts.

Trump card

FILM director Ali Abbasi made light of threatened legal action following the premiere of his Donald Trump biopic, The Apprentice, at the Cannes Film Festival. Abbasi said he was not bothered by the Trump camp’s reaction but admitted that the film was unlikely to be released before the US elections on November 5.

ITALY

Past events

MARIO MOTI, an 85-year-old former Carabinieri brigadier-general acquitted of state-Mafia negotiation in 2023, is under investigation again. The Florence Public Prosecutor will now question Mori under caution about the Mafia bombings that killed 10 people and injured 40 in Rome, Florence and Milan in 1993.

Orange alert

LAST GENERATION activists sprayed the entrance to the Health ministry in Rome with orange paint in protest at the “deaths and conditions” caused by global warming. The same group targeted Florence’s Uffizi Museum last February by pasting photographs of flooding on the glass over Botticelli’s Venus.

DENMARK

Varied VAT

THE government could adopt Europe’s practice of varying VAT rates for different products instead of Denmark’s present 25 per cent on all items. “There is potential for differentiating VAT on goods we would like people to buy, like fruit and vegetables,” Taxation minister Jeppe Bruus told a newspaper interviewer.

Mammoth find

WHEN an Aarhus gravel pit worker found part of a tusk in an excavator scoop, he guessed it was linked to the mammoth’s cheekbone discovered at the site some years before. Aarhus Natural History Museum experts will restore the tusk, which has a fresh crack probably caused during excavation, before putting it on show.

Good faith

FINLAND’S latest Youth Barometer survey found that most young people were not interested in religion. Approximately 20 per cent of the 15-29 age group described themselves as believers, while 60 per cent said they were “not at all religious” although 6 per cent explained they were non-religious “but spiritual”.

Helping hand

SOCIAL SECURITY institution Kela’s annual report and financial statement for 2023 showed that it paid a total of €16.6 billion in benefits and emphasised how challenges like inflation and the energy crisis had impacted its operations. “Exceptional times highlight Kela’s vital role,” director general Outi Antila said.

Electric storm

A LIGHTNING strike during a storm on the evening of May 20 injured a group of 10 people in Dresden, seriously harming four of them, the dpa news agency said. Two men aged 27 and 30 who suffered cardiac arrest were successfully resuscitated and later admitted to hospital after receiving emergency treatment.

Booker Prize

JENNY ERPENBECK and translator Michael Hofmann won the International Booker Prize for her novel, Kairos, set in East Berlin where the author was born and raised. The book was selected from 149 submissions for the UK award, and Erpenbeck and Hofmann will now share the prize money of £50,000 (€59,000).

Other habits

POLICE detected and dismantled 1,230 clandestine marihuana plantations in 2023, considerably down on their 2022 haul of 1,604. In contrast, they raided and destroyed 151 laboratories specialising in synthetic drugs as well as heroin and cocaine in 2023, a 50 per cent increase on the 100 they detected in 2022.

On foot

PEOPLE are visiting shopping streets more often this year, with levels that are equal to those prior to the pandemic, according to retail research service Locatus. This recovery was more noticeable in big cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht and Maastricht than in smaller cities, where Locatus noticed fewer crowds.

Yes or no to electric VOX Pop

THE Spanish electric vehicle (EV) market is less advanced than some of its European neighbours. We asked our readers their thoughts on purchasing one:

Paulo Silva from Portugal, now living in Polop would never consider buying an electric car because of the cost and lack of convenience. He went on to explain, “I like to drive to Portugal to visit my family, and this typically takes 12 hours. When one of my friends did the same thing in an electric car, it took them more than a day because of all the stopping… why would I do that?”

Gabriela Marian , who moved to Spain from Romania, had this to say, “I would not buy an electric car because I would be worried about running out of charge if I went on a long journey. I also do not think electric cars are better than what we have now because there is more risk of accidents, such as fires. The world wants to evolve, but I see that it is getting worse.”

Raquel Mulet Hernandez , a Cuban living in Spain for more than a decade, was very vocal in her enthusiasm for owning an electric car. She told us, “I would spend less money on maintenance, they make less noise and are much easier to park because it is free, there are zero restrictions on entering big cities, and the cost of recharging is much cheaper than gasoline.” She continued “Above all, the great environmental impact because they pollute zero, so you get to help the planet by driving one.”

Linda Bohn da Silva originally from Norway, responded with a definite ‘no’ as she does not see that they are any good for longer journeys. She explained, “The biggest issue is the lack of electric points. I would be very nervous that the car would stop and I would be stuck.”

Andrew Clarke from England, living in Cambrils said “From looking at it here in Spain, it seems that it’s not worth it. The costs are higher and the positive impact on the environment is questionable since these cars require a lot to produce. I love my old car from 1993 and want to pass it onto my grandchildren; why spend more money and energy?”

The Courier reaches No.1 on Netflix Top 10

HITTING 11,200,000 views on Net ix between May 13 - May 19, ‘The Courier’ provides an intense look into Spain’s nancial turbulence from 1992 to 2011.

Based on true events, real news footage is weaved into the narrative, underscoring the authenticity of its wild crime saga. For fans of Spanish cinema and TV, the lm is a trove of familiar faces.

Although a Spanish production, ‘The Courier’ unfolds across several European cities including Brussels, Geneva, Madrid, and Marbella.

The narrative begins in 1992, a pivotal year for Spain with the Olympics and the Expo in Barcelona. Ivan (Piper) experiences rst-hand the stark impact of nancial collapse on his family, moving from prosperity to hardship within a short space of time. The story then leaps to 2002, capturing Spain’s entry into the Euro.

Opportunities abound in this era of economic upheaval, particularly for those unscrupulous enough to exploit the vulnerable. Ivan is determined to transcend his humble beginnings.

Working as a valet at a luxurious golf club in Madrid, he seizes the chance to in ltrate the world of powerful elites, becoming a Belgian courier for an international money laundering organisation, transporting suitcases to Brussels and Geneva.

Ivan is not content to remain a mere courier. He sets his sights on the Costa del Sol, a region teeming with dirty money, aiming to capitalise on the corrupt dealings of property developers, politicians, bankers, and athletes.

Ivan’s ambition knows no bounds; he is willing to harm anyone in his quest for wealth.

The success of ‘The Courier’ demonstrates the enthusiasm for non-English stories.

GABRIELA MARIAN RAQUEL MULET HERNANDEZ

PAULO SILVA

Non-English films are becoming increasingly popular on Netflix.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Citi flaws

THE UK’S Prudential Regulation Authority and the Financial Conduct Authority have between them fined Citigroup £61.7 million (€72.5 million) for flaws in the company’s trading systems and controls. These failures led to a trader incorrectly selling around $1.4 billion (€1.3 billion) of equities.

Iberdrola plan

IBERDROLA hopes to thrash out an agreement enabling it to pay $35.75 (€32.91) per share for the remainder of its Connecticut-based US subsidiary Avangrid, in which it currently holds an 81.6 per cent stake. The total operation, if it goes ahead, will cost the energy company $2.551 billion (€2.348 billion).

No dice

FINANCIAL services company

Hargreaves Lansdown has twice rejected a £4.6 billion (€5.4 billion) takeover from a consortium headed by CVC Capital and Abu Dhabi’s wealth fund. The group said it was considering making a third approach for the Bristolbased company and had until June 19 to make a firm bid.

Gas licences

NATURGY hopes to renew its natural gas distribution licences in Argentina for 20 years, although the present diplomatic standoff between President Milei and the Spanish government could complicate renewal. At present Naturgy provides gas in parts of Buenos Aires province and four other provinces.

Looking ahead

ASTRAZENECA, Britain’s largest pharmaceutical company, announced revenues of $45.8 billion (€42.4 billion) in 2023, with an $80 billion (approximately €74 billion) target for 2030. The company said this could be achieved with rising demand for its biopharmaceuticals, oncology, and diabetes treatments.

STAT OF WEEK

€76.121 billion

is the current market value of Santander Bank, which has put it ahead of all other European banks after overtaking BNP Paribas’ capitalisation of €76.013 billion.

Plain sailing for M&S

MARKS & SPENCER is in its best financial shape since 1997, the company announced.

Total revenues for the financial year ending March 30 rose by more than £1 billion (€1.17 billion) to £13.04 billion (€15.3 billion).

Food sales rose by 13 per cent over the retailer’s last financial year, while clothing and homeware revenue increased by 5.3 per cent, with a 10 per cent market share, compared with 9.6 per cent in 2022.

“Both have now delivered 12 consecutive quarters of sales growth, and this gives us wind in our sails and confidence that our plan is working,” M&S chief executive Stuart Ma-

chin said.

Profits before tax and adjusting items reached £716.4 million (€840.97 million), 58 per cent above the predicted £684 million (€802.98 million) and shares at £30.02 (€35.24) reached their highest level

AMAZON’S cloud computing unit Amazon Web Services (AWS) is spending €15.7 billion on its data centres in the Aragon region.

Three AWS installations that already exist in Huesca, El Burgo de Ebro and Villanueva de Gallego will be expanded, eventually making the region one of the most important technology hubs in Europe.

These began operations in 2022 following AWS’s three-year, €2.5 billion investment, which foresaw the creation of 1,300 full-time work contracts over the following 10 years. This has now grown to 17,500 jobs, of which 6,800 will re-

Last-ditch

CANARY WHARF MANAGEMENT received a winding up petition after a retailer who closed last year left behind an unpaid energy bill.

The Npower bill ran into thousands, according to reports in the UK media, and after pursuing the debt for some time without success, the company filed the petition on May 17 “as a last resort.”

A Canary Wharf spokesman said on May 20 that the bill had been settled.

since 2017.

Nevertheless, there was “disappointment” with Ocado, which sells M&S food online and was responsible for a £37.3 million (€43.79 million) loss in 2024 compared with £29.5 million (€34.63 million) in

2022.

Sales at M&S’s international stores also dipped by 1 per cent to £719 million (€844.36 million) and Machin revealed that the company now “resetting priorities” abroad.

Without taking lease liabilities into account, the company had net funds of £45.7 million (€53.65 million) by late March, compared with a net debt of £355.6 million (€414.46 million) 12 months previously.

Meanwhile, the company will open nine new food stores over the coming year, plus four clothing and home stores despite closing 12 outdated or badly-sited stores in 2023.

Silver-lined cloud

BHP’s third try

MULTINATIONAL mining company

Anglo American turned down another approach from Australian rival, Broken Hill Proprietary Company (BHP).

The London-based group rejected an all-share £29.34 (€34.45) offer following earlier £27.53 (€32.32) and £25.08 (€29.46) bids.

This latest attempt would value Anglo American at £38.6 billion (€45.33 billion), but acceptance would involve splitting off its Amplats and Kumba platinum and iron ore subsidiaries in South Africa.

Anglo said the 18-month deadline for selling the units prior to the BHP takeover was “too risky and complex” but requested a one-week extension to negotiate a simpler deal.

If no agreement is reached, BHP will have to walk away for six months under City rules.

VIRGIN MONEY shareholders voted in favour of Nationwide Building Society’s proposed £2.9 billion (€3.4 billion) takeover.

The deal, which required backing from 75 per cent of shareholders, was approved by 89 per cent at a General Meeting on May 22, thanks mainly to Virgin Money’s biggest investor, Sir Richard Branson.

From the outset, Branson’s Virgin Group has supported the takeover which will earn the billionaire businessman £724 million (€850.7 million) although the transaction still needs approval from the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority.

main inside Aragon.

Amazon’s investment would have an impact of €21.6 billion on Spain’s gross domestic product (GDP), with a “colossal” €12.9 billion of that sum swelling Aragon’s own GDP, regional president Jorge Azcon said.

This was the equivalent of more than 30 per cent of Aragon’s GDP which in late 2022 - the last year with available figures - stood at €41.76 billion.

Flying

AIR EUROPA posted revenues of

€2.756 billion and a €165 million net profit for 2023.

This soared above 2022’s €470,000 profit and outstripped the €28.6 million corresponding to 2019 before the pandemic plunged the aviation industry into crisis.

These figures will also help Air Europa finish repaying a €141 million loan which was guaranteed by Spain’s Official Credit Institute (ICO) in 2020 and is due in August.

“These excellent results further reinforce the viability of Air Europa,” said chief executive Juan José Hidalgo, as the company, which belongs to the Globalia group, prepares for a €500 million takeover by IAG.

THE Madrid High Court cancelled three fines totalling €118 million imposed by Spain’s National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) on railway infrastructure companies.

Former ACS company Cobra, which now belongs to French company Vinci, and Sacyr were accused of belonging to a cartel in which 15 companies shared out 200 railway infrastructure projects worth €1.055bn over 14 years.

Cobra’s two fines totalling €27.2 million were lifted, as was Sacyr’s €762,363 although the court rejected an appeal from Siemens, which must still pay €16.8 million.

BBVA employees will soon be using artificial intelligence, the bank announced after signing an agreement with ChatGPT’s creator, OpenAI. It would explore “in a safe and responsible manner” the use of generative AI to accelerate procedures, improve productivity and increase innovation when creating texts and images or processing information, the bank said. It has now begun distributing 3,000 ChatGPT licences to its employees, and will be the first European bank to form this type of alliance.

STUART MACHIN: M&S ‘confident’ chief executive said.

Photo credit: M&S/Stuart Machin

JORGE AZCON: Aragon president announces Amazon investment.

LONDON - FTSE 100

3I Group 2.919,00 2.919,00 2.895,00 48,32K Admiral Group 2.684,0 2.689,0 2.671,0 7,73K

Airtel Africa 119,20 119,65 117,00 172,58K

Anglo American 2.627,5 2.649,5 2.617,0 131,19K

Antofagasta 2.236,00 2.249,00 2.231,00 55,04K

Ashtead Group 5.684,0 5.706,0 5.662,0 21,30K

Associated British Foods 2.708,0 2.708,0 2.690,0 26,77K AstraZeneca 12.306,0 12.362,0 12.288,0 65,95K

Auto Trader Group Plc 742,80 744,80 740,40 54,62K

Aviva 478,55 479,80 475,40 715,84K

B&M European Value Retail SA 550,12 551,60 546,80 78,28K

BAE Systems 1.388,00 1.396,50 1.382,00 166,31K Barclays 211,95 212,55 210,75 3,14M

Barratt Developments 503,14 504,40 495,90 60,97K

Beazley 662,50 662,50 656,00 54,46K

Berkeley 5.190,0 5.200,0 5.140,0 6,13K

BP 478,85 479,90 477,30 1,89M

British American Tobacco 2.399,0 2.414,0 2.391,0 275,88K

BT Group 127,95 128,30 126,05 2,33M Bunzl 2.996,0 3.014,0 2.986,0 18,51K Burberry Group 1.041,0 1.044,5 1.038,0 117,40K

141,99 143,05 141,40 838,92K Coca Cola HBC AG 2.758,0 2.762,0 2.744,0 25,90K

Media deal

SQUIRREL MEDIA has acquired IKI Group, one of Spain’s leading advertising agencies, which will now be integratedintothemedia, advertising, audiovisual and technological services company.

The amount involved was not revealed “to avoid influencing” other operations currently in the pipeline, Squirrel said.

Charge-free

DIPLOMATS based in the capital owe Transport for London (TFL) around £143 million (€167.84 million) in unpaid congestion charges.

The US Embassy’s accumulation has reached £14 million (€16.43 million), followed by Japan’s with more than £10.1 million (€11.85 million).

Nearly there

INFLATION fell to 2.3 per cent in April, down from 3.2 per cent in March and the UK’s lowest since July 2021.

“It is a major moment for the economy with inflation back to normal,” PM Rishi Sunak declared on May 22 although the April figure was above the City’s predicted 2.1 per cent.

Gas and electricity prices, respectively 38 per cent and 21 per cent lower in April, were mainly responsible for the dip in inflation, owing to

Telefonica manoeuvres

CRITERIACAIXA hopes to double its 5.007 per cent Telefonica holding.

This would put Criteria, Caixabank’s largest shareholder with a 30 per cent stake, on level pegging with the Spanish government which now owns 10 per cent of Telefonica.

Criteria declined to comment on the report based on unnamed sources quoted by the El Confidencial website on

May 21, although there was less reticence on the part of the state holding company SEPI.

The publicly owned company announced on May 20 that it had now acquired a 10 per cent Telefonica stake worth €2.28 billion in a move that was initiated to offset Saudi Arabian STC’s 10 per cent holding in the Spanish telecommunications company.

the lower price cap fixing the maximum price charged for each unit.

Falling fertiliser prices and competition between supermarkets on ownbrand items, meant milk, butter, poultry and fish were cheaper in April 2024 than they were a year earlier and helped to chip away at inflation.

In contrast, mobile phone bills and rents continued to rise and April’s figure has topped the Bank of England’s 2 per cent target.

Meanwhile, some City sources were “pessimistic” about a cut, but others did not rule out a reduction in August.

The Bank’s governor Andrew Bailey pointed out that the inflation crisis was at an end while the deputy governor Ben Broadbent, has also hinted at “possible” bank rate cut later this summer.

Madrid plans

ATLETICO DE MADRID has applied to Madrid City Hall for planning permission for its €350 million future sports centre which will cover five plots of land surrounding the club’s existing football stadium. The complex, which will cost more than €350 million instead of the €200 million originally announced, is expected to be completed and in use by late 2026.

Playing safe

ROLLS-ROYCE will supply the engines for the latest version of the US military aircraft called the Doomsday planes due to their capacity for surviving a nuclear blast as well as electromagnetic pulses. The British manufacturer will join other aerospace companies working on the aircraft that can accommodate 111 people and include work, conference and briefing rooms.

Photo credit: 10 Downing Street/Simon Walker

RISHI SUNAK: Hailed lower inflation as a ‘major moment’.

Tail Torrox needs volunteers

TAIL TORROX is a registered charity based in Torrox Costa on the eastern Costa del Sol. Our mission is to rescue and rehome abandoned and maltreated dogs and puppies from the Torrox area. We have a dog refuge which houses some 60 to 80 dogs and puppies and more dogs in foster care. In addition we have three charity shops; Two in Torrox Costa and one in the Pueblo.

We work to raise money through the shops, donations and events to pay for our dogs’ food and medication. They are also vaccinated, sterilised, and provided with a passport and chip. In addition we have to raise money for rental of shops and the refuge, and their electricity and water.

We are always looking for volunteers to help in our shops, and with delivery and collection of furniture.

Whether you are resident or a regular visitor, we need your help. It’s a great

way to meet new people, whilst doing something beneficial to the community.

Our shops hours are 10-00 - 14.00 Monday to Saturday, even just one day a week will help us. We welcome male and female adult applicants of all nationalities. Also, if you are fairly strong and physically fit, there are always opportunities for collection and delivery of larger items.

There are an enormous number of ways in which you can help us. We always need towels, newspapers, cleaning materials and toys for the dogs, as well as money and physical help at the refuge.

If you would like to find out how to donate to our charity please see below.

CONTACT DETAILS: • info@tailtorrox.es • tailtorrox@gmail.com

Tail Torrox on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064798272898

DONATE: • Paypal info@tailtorrox.es • Bizum Donate 07580

BANK TRANSFER :

Banco Sabadell: Asociacion Tail ES38 0081 5198 1200 0106 9517

BIC BSAB ESBB

QUIRKY TOWN

Human towers in Tarragona

John Smith

ONE of the better known quirks of Catalonian human nature is that of the building of human towers across the region.

Probably the most famous is that which takes place in Tarragona which claims to be the biggest and best.

The phrase “room for a little one” really rings true as four local teams as well as visiting groups known as Colles compete to see how high and sturdy their tower can be and a lot is down to weight and size.

Every two years Tarragona hosts what it refers to as the world’s biggest human tower (Castellar) building competition which can surpass 15 metres in height.

The towers are made of people standing on each other’s shoulders and usually, a small child climbs last to reach

the tip of the sometimes shaking tower and the tradition in Catalonia goes back to the 18th century.

Covid stopped the 2020 event but it did take place in 2022 and now it returns to Tarragona with practices starting on June 24 around the streets of the city and the grand finale being held in the Tarraco Arena (the old bullfighting ring) on October 6.

Huge numbers of spectators fill the bullring as they watch the different teams compete with the heaviest and strongest forming the base and others who are lighter climbing on top but there are no safety nets and it’s not without danger.

Even the children who wear safety helmets could fall and sometimes it is the dismounting that can be more dangerous than building the tower.

Building a successful tower in the final.

INVESTING in property in Axarquia, a picturesque region in the eastern part of the province of Malaga, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and promising real estate opportunities. The region is known for its charming white-washed villages, stunning Mediterranean coastline, and the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Almijara mountains.

This diverse landscape attracts tourists and expatriates alike, making it an appealing location

“Investing in Axarquia” finding financial stability

for property investment. One of the main draws of Axarquia is its relatively affordable property prices compared to more well-known areas such as the Costa del Sol. This affordability, combined with the region’s growing popularity, suggests a potential for property value appreciation over time.

Whether investing in a coastal apartment in towns like Torre del Mar or Nerja, or a rustic villa in inland villages such as Competa or Frigiliana, investors can find a variety of options to suit different budgets

and preferences. The rental market in Axarquia is also robust, driven by both short-term holiday rentals and long-term leases. Engaging with local real estate agents, legal advisors, and property managers can help mitigate risks and optimise investment returns.

Overall, Axarquia’s blend of scenic beauty, affordability, and rental potential makes it a compelling choice for property investors looking for a promising opportunity in southern Spain.

Inside Outside Allure

LIVING on the Coasta means embracing a lifestyle where the terrace becomes an integral part of daily living, enjoyed throughout the year. Blessed with a Mediterranean climate boasting mild winters and sun-soaked summers, residents relish over 300 days of sunshine annually, making terrace living a joyous experience.

The terrace transitions seamlessly from a cosy retreat in the cooler months to a vibrant social hub during

the warmer seasons.

With stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, majestic mountains, or charming coastal towns, the terrace offers a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and social gatherings.

Whether hosting barbecues with friends or unwinding with a book, residents immerse themselves in the natural beauty of their surroundings. Personalised touches, such as lush greenery or comfortable seating, enhance the ambiance, crea-

ting a tranquil oasis for moments of serenity. Terrace living isn’t just about enjoying the outdoors - it’s about embracing a lifestyle of leisure, luxury, and connection with nature. From sunrise to sunset, residents savour every moment on their terrace, making cherished memories against the backdrop of scenic splendour.

With a myriad of outdoor activities at their fingertips, residents can indulge in adventures year-round.

WELCOME to Pool Spas Nerja, your go-to destination for premium hot tubs and wellness products on the stunning Costa del Sol. We pride ourselves on offering the finest brands in the market.

Our selection includes the highly acclaimed Caldera Spas, renowned for their exceptional hydrotherapy features and superior comfort. With advanced water care systems and a variety of models to suit every need, Caldera Spas provide an unparalleled spa experience.

Additionally, we offer Endless Pools, perfect for fitness enthusiasts and those looking for a unique aquatic experience. These pools are designed for endless swimming, low-impact workouts, and family fun, making them a versatile addition to any home. Beyond hot tubs and swim spas, Pool Spas Nerja also caters to your broader wellness needs. We provide high-quality saunas that promise to elevate your relaxation

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Your Premier Hot Tub destination on the Costa del Sol

routine, offering a range of health benefits from detoxification to improved circulation.

At Pool Spas Nerja, we provide expert advice and a personalised service to help you choose the perfect wellness solution for your home. Whether you need assistance with installation, maintenance, or finding the right product, our knowledgeable team is here to support you every step of the way. Located in the picturesque town of Nerja, we proudly serve clients throughout the Costa del Sol. Our local expertise, combined with our dedication to quality, makes us the preferred choice for residents and vacation homeowners alike.

Experience the best in relaxation and wellness with Pool Spas Nerja. Visit us today at our brand-new three-storwy Hot Tub store to discover how we can help you transform your outdoor living space into a haven of tranquility and luxury.

Hello@poolspasnerja.com

poolspasnerja.com

+34 601 645 145

POLAR

AIR Conditioning: Premier Cooling Solutions in Malaga

Polar Air Conditioning, based in Torrox, is known for its comprehensive air conditioning services for both residential and commercial clients. Specialising in quality installations, routine maintenance, and emergency repairs, they have established a reputation for exceptional service.

In Malaga’s warm climate, a comfortable indoor environment is crucial. Polar Air Conditioning offers a wide range of top-brand units, including energy-efficient models designed to lower energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint while delivering optimal cooling. Their installation services are meticulous, ensuring that every unit operates efficiently from day one. Trained technicians handle complex installations with precision, ensuring all components are correctly fitted and functioning.

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To keep systems running smoothly year-round, Polar Air Conditioning provides regular maintenance packages. These services help prevent unexpected breakdowns and extend the lifespan of your equipment. Additionally, their prompt and reliable repair services ensure that any malfunctions are swiftly addressed, minimising disruption to your daily life. Customer satisfaction is central to Polar Air Conditioning’s philosophy. They offer a personalised service tailored to each client’s needs, ensuring the best possible cooling solutions for homes and businesses alike. Whether you need a new unit, maintenance, or repairs, Polar Air Conditioning’s team of experienced professionals is ready to assist, ensuring comfort and efficiency in every service they provide.

info@polarair.eu - Call: Jordan +34 655 211 192 - www.polarair.eu

ESTABLISHED in 2006, Dream Properties is now one of the coast’s largest and most reputable independent Estate Agents specialising in the sale of residential properties within Malaga City and Nerja along with its neighbouring Andalucian towns and villages. We deal with the whole spectrum of residential property from the smallest studio apartment to spacious, luxury villas.

Dream Properties embraces the latest IT technology available in the real estate industry. Nevertheless at the heart of our business is the belief that personal, quality and honest negotiation ultimately delivers the best results for our buyers and vendors.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Our friendly and experienced team will have your best interests at heart. We are proud to be among a network of quality agents that operate across the Costa del Sol. This enables us to assist you in finding the right property anywhere in Andalucia and beyond.

We would be delighted to invite you to our smart office on

Calle Lima 1 (Edif. Armijo – Local 1-2), opposite the (Local Police) in Avda Pescia or for a coffee in any of Malaga’s many smart cafes. 670 064 214 dreampropertiesnerja.com Contact Us Today!

Photo: Flickr CC

Parking an investment

OFFICES are the most profitable bricks and mortar investment for the small saver in Spain with returns of 12 per cent, double that of housing. Rents are between €8 and €22 per square metre, so the owner of a 300 square metre property can pocket up to €6,600 per month.

The real estate sector is one of the most profitable in the Spanish market, in which offices have now gained prominence after collapsing during the pandemic. Acquiring one to rent offers a profitability of 11.8 per cent, higher than that of residential property and other types of commercial premises according to data from idealista.

For those wanting to enter the market with a smaller investment, the profitability of garages in Spain closed 2023 at

over 7 per cent according to the study of, ‘The profitability of garages in Spain in 2023’, based on an analysis by the real estate portal Fotocasa.

“We have noticed that more and more individual savers are choosing this option, which requires a very low initial investment and the yield obtained is still the highest in real estate.

Also, because a garage space increases the value of an apartment, it is logical that demand is increasing as house buying remains intense. In addition, this type of investment tends to focus on periods of economic uncertainty like we have now, as it is perceived as low risk and gives the investor security,” explained María Matos, Director of Studies and spokesperson for Fotocasa.

WE are thrilled to announce the grand opening of our fourth office, right in the heart of Nerja! As your trusted real estate partner, we’re expanding our presence to better serve the vibrant community of Nerja and surrounding areas.

Located centrally in Nerja, our new office is poised to offer unparalleled convenience and expertise for all your property needs. Whether you’re buying, selling, or renting, our dedicated team of professionals is here to guide you every step of the way. At Competa Properties we pride ourselves on our commitment to excellence, integrity, and personalised service. With over a decade of experience in the local market, we understand the unique dynamics of the areas property landscape and are dedicated to helping you achieve your property goals.

From charming coastal villas to cosy townhouses and stylish apartments, we have an extensive portfolio of properties to suit every lifes-

tyle and budget. Our comprehensive approach combines industry-leading technology with a human touch, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for our clients.

Join us in celebrating this exciting milestone and discover why Competa Properties is the preferred choice for all your real estate needs in Nerja and along the Costa del Sol. Visit our new office today located at C/ San Miguel nº 8 and let us help you turn your property dreams into reality! C/ San Miguel Nº 8, Nerja 851 800 698 competaproperties.com

Are you considering making Southern Spain your new home ?

WHETHER you dream of sunny beaches, vibrant culture, or picturesque landscapes, Hansen Real Estate is here to make your transition seamless.

Established in 2012, Hansen Real Estate in southern Spain has been assisting people from families to investors in buying, selling, and renting properties along the entire coast of southern Spain.

Our business is founded on honesty and seriousness, boasting over 30 years of collective experience in the real estate industry.

When choosing to buy a property on the Costa del Sol or elsewhere in southern Spain, it is highly beneficial to have a real estate broker who is fa-

ABRACASABRA Real Estate is located in Canillas de Aceituno in the province of Malaga, the heart of Axarquia, Andalucia.

Our global presence combined with extensive local knowledge and professional guidance makes a big difference during your search for your place in the sun. AbraCasaBra Real Estate is at your side to make your dream come true in the sunny Costa del Sol, from Nerja to Estepona.

miliar with the areas, the culture, and, of course, the language. We will assist you with all aspects of property purchases, including mortgages, complete renovations, small improvements, internet installation, moving, and currency exchange.

If you have any doubts about which area is best for you, or if you have numerous questions regarding property purchase in southern Spain, do not hesitate to get in touch. We will listen and work diligently to understand and resolve any problems or issues you may have.

In our office, you will find Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Spanish, German, and, of course, English-speaking members of the team, making us

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Our team of local property advisors with more than 20 years of expertise, tailor-made advice, our precise analysis of your needs, our flawless follow-up and administrative support for all local formalities guarantee that at AbraCasaBra Real Estate you buy the right townhouse, villa, finca, cortijo, luxury property, apartment or new build project in the right place and at the right price.

During the entire selling process, but also afterwards, we support you during your journey. Our network of influence

composed of architects, lawyers, various trades, decorators and insurers will participate in the realisation of your dream. We take care of everything, you enjoy! In case you want to sell your property or you are looking to realise your Spanish dream on the Costa del Sol, contact us today.

Calle la Fuente 11 29716 Canillas de Aceituno, Malaga +34 677 187 096

info@abracasabra.es abracasabra.es

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the ideal choice as your house-hunting specialists. Our team are very experienced within the real estate sector and specialise in finding you the ideal property.

Each year, we help over 40 families find their dream property on the Costa del Sol. If you need assistance, all you need to do is get in touch. If you are in the area, please visit our office and share your ideas, projects, and dreams.

Avenida Andalucia 64 - 29740 Torre del Mar, Malaga info@hansen-realestate.com Tel: 0034 952 541 794 hansen-realestate.com

SINCE the first interest rate hike by the European Central Bank (ECB) in 2022, the number of buyers who have bought a home without a mortgage has risen by eight percentage points.

In 2022, 27 per cent of buyers did not apply for a mortgage, by 2023 this had increased to 32 per cent and so far in 2024 the trend has continued to grow to 35 per cent, according to the latest survey by Fotocasa Research, based on more than 8,200 interviews, conducted in February 2024.

After two years of tightening credit conditions, both house hunters and

27% of buyers did not apply for a mortgage

house seekers are now well aware of the current high mortgage rate environment. It is therefore not surprising that the impact on homebuying intentions has eased slightly, although it remains at significantly high levels.

Nearly a half of potential home buyers between the ages of 25 and 35 confess that the rise in mortgages has impacted their property purchase intentions.

However, less than a quarter of those buyers over 55 stated that the rise in mortgages had any impact on their in-

tention to buy. Analaysis by real estate portal Idealista shows that foreigners represented only 5 per cent of the total mortgages granted in Spain in 2023. Finance for primary homes is the main requirement at over 70 per cent, while very few look for a mortgage for a second home. The British continue to lead the ranking of foreigners applying for mortgages, representing over 15 per cent of the total with Germany following closely.

Photo: Shutterstock Jupitersounds

Photo: Pexels CC

TORROX COSTA, a prime location on the Costa del Sol, is the perfect place to live or invest in property. At the heart of this paradise is Guido Bauer

S.L. a real estate agency known for its commitment, professionalism, and passion for finding the perfect home for each client. Established in 1999, our agency has been a market leader in Torrox Costa for years.

Who We Are

At Guido Bauer, our mission is to provide a personalised, high-quality service tailored to each client’s needs. Our team of highly qualified professionals, well-versed in the local market, are always ready to offer expert advice and innovative solutions.

What We Offer

We have a wide range of properties to suit all tastes and budgets,

including:

25th Anniversary: Discover your Perfect Home with Guido Bauer in Torrox Costa

Beachfront Apartments: Ideal for enjoying the sun and sea all year round.

Exclusive Villas: Featuring spacious gardens, private pools, and high-quality finishes.

Townhouses and Chalets: Perfect for families seeking comfort and space in a prime location.

Investment Properties: Unique opportunities for those seeking returns in the real estate market.

Comprehensive Holiday Rental Management

Our expertise in holiday rentals stems from a deep understanding of the needs of both property owners and tourists. For owners, we offer a full-service package that includes property promotion on high-visibility platforms, administrative management, and maintenance.

WHETHER you are searching for a sunkissed 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 trips to the bank. Currencies Direct

This ensures that each property not only retains its value but also provides the best possible experience for guests.

Our Commitment

We understand that buying or selling a property is one of the most significant decisions in a person’s life. That’s why we are committed to:

Listening and Understanding Your Needs: Taking the time to learn your preferences and goals.

Providing Transparency and Trust: Guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring all transactions are clear and secure.

Offering Comprehensive Service: From the initial search to the signing of the contract and beyond, we are with you every step of the way.

Client Testimonials

“Our experience with Guido Bauer was exceptional. They found our

Simplify your property journey with PropertyPay

understands the challenges that come with purchasing a property overseas, especially in a market as dynamic as Spain’s. That’s why we’ve introduced our game-changing new PropertyPay service, tailored to make the process smoother and more efficient for anyone buying or selling property in Spain.

With PropertyPay there is now a way to streamline the end-to-end payments process, eliminating the need for traditional methods and their associated hassles.

At its core, PropertyPay is a free, secure, and 100 per cent digital service that offers instant fund guarantees and disbursements between buyers and sellers. Unlike conventional methods that can take days to process, PropertyPay ensures that transactions are executed swiftly and efficiently, saving both time and money for all parties involved.

Imagine being able to bid adieu to the days of waiting anxiously for funds to clear or worrying about fluctuating exchange rates. With PropertyPay,

buyers and sellers can rest easy, knowing that their transactions are in safe hands.

Plus, with instant fund transfers* and disbursements, there’s no need to endure the usual wait times - your property dreams can become a reality faster than you ever imagined.

But it’s not just about speed and efficiency - it’s also about saving money. Property transactions can be costly affairs, with hidden fees and unfavourable exchange rates eating into your budget.

Whether you’re purchasing a picturesque villa in Marbella or selling a charming apartment in Barcelona, with PropertyPay, you can say goodbye to those unnecessary expenses and keep more money in your pocket where it belongs.

After all, every euro saved is a step closer to turning your Spanish property dreams into a reality.

Pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or contact propertypay@ currenciesdirect.com to find out more about PropertyPay and how it could

dream home and guided us professionally at every step.” - María and Juan Pérez

“Thanks to Guido Bauer we invested in a property in Torrox Costa which turned out to be an excellent decision. Their market knowledge is impressive.” - Carlos Martínez Contact Us

Looking to buy, sell, or invest in Torrox Costa? Guido Bauer S.L. is your trusted partner in the real estate market. Visit us at our offices or contact us through our communication channels.

Avenida Del Faro Bloque 76 Bajo, Torrox Costa, | 952 532 427 info@guidobauer.com guidobauersl.com

Discover your perfect home with Guido Bauer S.L. in Torrox Costa today.

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help save make significant savings whether buying or selling a property in Spain.

*The transfer of funds between buyer and seller can be instant if both have an account with Currencies Direct Spain, E.D.E., S.L

Visit us at our Spanish offices in Costa del Sol, Costa Almeria, North Costa Blanca and South Costa Blanca

Telephone UK +44 (0) 207 847 9400 Spain +34 950 478 914 euroweekly@currenciesdirect.com www.currenciesdirect.com

DID you buy a sofa at Ikea, a new sink at Leroy Merlin, or a queen-size bed for your new home and are struggling to get it there?

Are you moving from one place to another and need help? Look no further; I’m a man with a van, and I can help you out.

My name is Robert Boyle and my little business is called ROBERTO BRINGS IT

I have ‘been bringing it’ since I moved to Spain three years ago. Based in Caleta de Velez, I work both locally and across Spain.

As an experienced driver who served in the British Army and worked as an (inter) national lorry driver in Belgium, I bring reliability and professionalism to every job. I speak English, Dutch/Flemish, and German fluently, I can also make myself heard in

Important when viewing a property

WHEN viewing a property, it’s crucial to carefully assess various aspects to ensure it aligns with your needs and preferences. Start by evaluating its location, considering factors like safety, amenities, and proximity to essential services such as schools and transportation. Pay close attention to the property’s structural integrity, checking for signs of damage or wear and tear. Test the plumbing and electrical systems to ensure they function properly and safely. Assess the HVAC system for efficiency and reliabili-

French, and I am learning Spanish.

This multilingual ability ensures smooth communication with a diverse clientele.

Whether you need help moving furniture, transporting new purchases, or relocating, I’m here to assist.

For inquiries or to book a service, please contact me via WhatsApp on T. 633 303 560 visit my Facebook page, Instagram, or website www.robertobringsit.com, or email me at robertobringsit@gmail.com

Our dog Tula has become a welcome co-worker and security. Let me make your move or delivery stress-free and efficient with my reliable and friendly service.

ty, and inspect insulation and ventilation for comfort and energy efficiency. Take note of the condition of appliances and fixtures, ensuring they are in good working order. Check windows and doors for proper functionality and security. Evaluate outdoor areas for maintenance needs and usability. If applicable, assess parking availability and convenience. Ensure the property complies with local regulations and has necessary permits. Consider po-

tential maintenance and renovation needs, factoring them into your decision-making process.

Finally, trust your instincts and assess the overall feel of the property to determine if it’s a place where you can envision yourself living comfortably.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

The ‘Golden Visa’ effect

ECONOMISTS claim that the elimination of the ‘Golden Visa’, the Spanish nationality visas for foreigners buying a property worth more than €500,000, will not have a significant impact on a general drop in house prices.

The economic barometer of the province of Malaga reflects that, despite the fact that the government stated that the elimination of the ‘Golden Visa’ would mean restrictions on the purchase of housing by foreigners, “in our opinion the problem is different,” in relation to the fact that this segment “is aimed at homes worth more than half a million euros, that is, the luxury market,” they say.

Fotocasa, one of the most pro-

minent real estate portals, currently lists 6,014 second-hand homes and 57 new properties for sale in Axarquia. The listings range in price from €16,000 to €3.7 million, however of all the properties for sale less than 17 per cent are priced at over €500,000 and therefore would have qualified for the Golden Visa.

Rival web portal, Idealista, shows a similar picture with less than 20 per cent of all the properties listed for sale in Axarquia priced at €500,000 or over.

Unlike other areas on the Costa del Sol for instance where the majority of homes are valued in excess of half a million euros, in the Axarquia region over 80 per cent of homes are unaffected.

Photo: Flickr CC / PhotoLanda, Villa de Alcaucín, Comarca de La Axarquía

Spain’s rich cultural heritage

WITH origins shrouded in mystery and a history stretching back to medieval times, the festivities of La Maya offer a unique spectacle heralding spring’s arrival. In early May around Madrid, families gather to select the girls aged between seven and 11 who will become this year’s ‘Mayas’.

Abundant in symbolism, this tradition is all about themes of fertility, prosperity and blessing the upcoming agricultural season. Families meticulously craft elaborate altars adorned with flowers and herbs from the surrounding countryside, fashioning a wreath the girl wears like a crown.

A lush carpet of freshly picked plants adorns the altars, flanked by vases overflowing with flowers. With no written guidelines, everything is passed down orally for generations.

On festival day, wearing petticoats, white shirts and Manila shawls, the Mayas perch on the altars, accompanied by attendants who offer to brush your clothes in exchange for donations to cover the

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF

POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.

family’s outgoings! After two hours of absolute stillness, they proceed to the church for a service, a tradition now firmly embraced by churches despite its pagan origins.

The festival’s name originates in Greco-Roman myth, where Maia, a companion of Artemis, symbolised the fertility of spring, ultimately giving the month of May its name as it marks - curtain up, drum roll - the height of spring!

And once again, many thanks for all your welcome emails to my website!

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

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

Don’t do it - it’s rude!

MIKE SENKER IN MY OPINION

I USE WhatsApp as my main messaging tool on my phone mainly because it’s free to use with other folks that have it. One of the little things which most people have is the two blue ticks to say the message has been sent, received and read - unless you are one of those people that don’t want you to know when they were last online.

Anyway, for absolutely no reason whatsoever, they have changed the tick to the right of the message to green. Why? What difference does it make to my messaging experience? It just pees me off to think that some techy department has sat down, had several meetings and votes and spent thousands of dollars no doubt, to come up with this startling bit of - what’s the word I’m searching for? I know, bullcrap.

I mean what was wrong with blue? And whilst on the subject of this app, the message about encryption isn’t strictly true is it? I think law enforcement can demand access to monitor it. To be honest that doesn’t concern me as much as the people that send

me a message asking me something specific and me answering immediately, seeing it’s been delivered and read, and then they don’t answer for two hours. That’s the equivalent of talking to someone face to face, them getting up, walking away and coming back and wanting to carry on the conversation where we left off. Don’t do it - it’s rude!

Whilst on the subject of phone apps I also use X or Twitter or whatever it’s called now. I only follow 100 people maximum and like to keep up with their nonsense but sometimes, especially overnight, I don’t check it so in the morning I might have 15 or 16 hours of catching up to do, which is pretty simple, all you do is scroll up.

But in the bottom left hand corner of the screen is a little house shaped button and if you accidently touch it the app scrolls all the way to the most current post and I have now missed all the posts I wanted to see, which is very annoying. I have a very simple fix for that Mr Musk as I know you read my column every week - just make it that you have to tap it twice to make it go there. Easy fix and will keep this grumpy old man happy for at least another week.

Email: mikesenker@gmail.com

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

VIEWS OF A GRUMPY OLD MAN

Democracy is dead

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

HOMOPHOBIA is now rife. Racism is approaching rampant and with the comments and mail I’ve been receiving public frustration growing by the day. Why? Because these labels have been designed to discourage the frank discussion of either subject.

The conception is subversive but quite brilliant.

One of the most frequent observations I receive from readers is that they peruse this blurb because I discuss opinions they are not allowed to! Not allowed to? How offensive is that?

The woke and PC brigade can now do just about anything they choose - and the public are afraid to even talk about it.

Lives and culture are being changed forever by leftie induced minorities that wield such power, it appears they can not only ruin reputations, but also devastate law abiding citizen’s livelihoods with impunity.

It only takes one woke to be at the head of a department or company and

with the threat of dismissal or worse, they can basically control the politics, opinions and even thinking of their subordinates.

All they need to do is report any adverse ‘findings’ to a fellow woker high up in law or politics and the target of their vitriol can suddenly find themselves at best on benefits and at worst in the dock. People are petrified to voice their true opinions in case they lose everything.

I just wish the UK had a Trump among the baby kissing codswallop brigade they have to put up with for another five weeks or so. After listening to his ‘Bronx speech’ a few days ago, I got the impression he’d been perusing my column online.

His references to immigration and the conception that they were all young men, so awash with mobile phones, designer clothes and tents that they were probably ‘raising a secret army’, sounded as though his words stepped right off the ol boy’s column.

Unfortunately for the UK I think it is already too late. The media conspiracy is worse than ever.

I recently read of a decision to re-

think the advertising of certain shampoos because it could be offensive to bald people!

If it wasn’t all so dangerous it would be comical.

Well unfortunately it’s not funny at all. The clear thinking majority are now being manipulated in ways that would have brought a smile to the lips of MaoTse Tung himself.

Any organisation that disagrees with these cancel culturists, or tries to bring their wholly unacceptable advertising practices into the public domain, is immediately vilified and pilloried in concerted attacks from all sides.

This of course means that the public are not even given the opportunity to cast a vote in their direction.

Democracy is dead. Gagging or destroying any opposition is now the order of the day. Nazi Germany, Russia, China and a number of Muslim countries come to mind! Thanks for all your mail. I do peruse every one. Keep ‘em coming.

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.

INTERVIEW

Speaking European –Jan Törstedt

The first thought Jan had after he had finished his national duty in the Swedish military, was “I’ve got to go to Spain.” He was in his 20s and was the first Swedish ERASMUS student to come to Spain, moving to study at the University of Barcelona in 1995.

ALMOST 30 years later, he resides in Barcelona with his Spanish fa mily and shares his love of Spain and “its way of living.”

Even back in 1995, when there were much fewer expatriates than today, Jan remembers how welcomed he felt: “Spain is the most welcoming country in the world because they are so used to vi sitors.”

Jan believes in a strong expatriate community: “Foreigners in Spain have the most in common with each other, no

Killer bear to relocate

A FEMALE bear, known as JJ4, that killed a jogger in the Italian Alps last year, will be relocated to a sanctuary in Germany, authorities from the northern Italian province of Trento announced on Tuesday May 21. The relocation comes after a protracted legal battle over the bear’s fate.

JJ4 fatally attacked a 26-year-old man in April 2023, leading Trento administrators to order its capture and execution. However, legal challenges from environmentalists blocked the death sentence.

“JJ4 will be transferred by the autumn,” Trento’s tourism and hunting councillor Roberto Failoni told a local daily newspaper. The bear will find a new home at the Worbis Alternative Bear Park in Germany.

The region around Trento, repopulated with bears from 1999 under an EU-funded programme, has seen several bear attacks in recent years. This has raised questions about how to achieve successful cohabitation with the animals while ensuring public safety.

matter where they come from. Out of the entire planet, they choose to come here and that shows the kind of values that they have and the lifestyle they desire.”

One of Jan’s favourite things about Spain is its diversity and uniqueness from region to region. He also loves the climate but with the country’s rich culture, unmatchable scenery and welcoming people, he has learnt that “Spain is so much more than just the sun.”

Areas of Italy repopulated with wild bears.

Jan Törstedt in Spain

AXARQUÍA - MÁLAGA EAST Nerja Dance Bread festival

CORUMBELA celebrates the third year of Día del Pan Cateto (Rustic Bread Day) on Sunday, June 2, featuring wood-fired bread tastings. The event will showcase 600 artisan loaves made by local women, alongside popular paella, musical performances, dancing, and children’s activities.

The event was announced by Communication Officer Álvaro Hurtado, Sayalonga’s mayor Sagrario Fernández, Corumbela’s deputy mayor Natividad Córdoba, and Manuel Parra. Hurtado praised the event, highlighting its success in promoting traditional crafts and healthy eating. He invited everyone to enjoy the handmade bread, noting its delicious flavour and health benefits.

Córdoba emphasised the importance of traditional bread in the Mediterranean diet, noting that Corumbela’s bread is still handmade and baked in wood-fired ovens. This tradition will be showcased and celebrated, with activities starting at noon in La Era. The event will include recognition plaques for key contributors and a gift basket for locals turning 65 this year.

Children can enjoy a free bouncy castle and a photo booth will be available for visitors. A market will offer local artisanal products, and performances from local groups like Coro La Blanca Paloma and Rondalla de Sayalonga will entertain attendees. There will also be a free shuttle bus service from the Las Pitas bus stop in

ANA MARÍA MUÑOZ, the councillor of Culture, has announced the annual dance festival Nerjadanza, the Contemporary Dance Festival of Nerja. The festival will run from May 30 to June 2, with performances at the Paseo Balcón de Europa and the Centro Cultural Villa de Nerja.

Muñoz highlighted the performance by local dancer Águeda Saavedra, a rising star in the world of flamenco, set to take place at the Centro Cultural on Saturday, June 1. She mentioned that this performance is highly anticipated in Nerja.

The festival kicks off on Thursday, May 30, and continues on Friday, May 31, with Animasur’s ‘Love love love’ at 5pm followed by another show at 7pm, both at the Balcón de Europa and free to the public. The evening concludes with a show at 9pm at the Centro Cultural, with tickets priced at €10.

On Saturday, June 1, the UMA

Dance Workshop will present their show at 5pm, followed by Pa tricia Hastewell Puig and Noé Ferey’s ‘Les Passants’ at 7pm, both at the Balcón de Europa and free. Águeda Saave dra’s ‘Connatural’ will be the highlight of the evening at 9pm at the Centro Cultural, with tickets available for €10.

The festival concludes on Sun day, June 2, with three more shows at 7.30pm, another at 8.15, and fi nishing with one at 9pm. Nerjadan za promises a vibrant and diverse programme of contemporary dance, making it a must-see event for dance enthusiasts and the local community alike.

Summer Fayre Benefit Gala

APAA Nerja, a dedicated animal rescue charity, is gearing up for a heartwarming event this summer. With a mission to rescue and find loving homes for abandoned and mistreated dogs in Nerja, the organisation is hosting a summer fair fundraiser at Fitzgeralds Marazul on June 8, running from 10.30am to 3pm.

The fair promises a delightful array of attractions, from tombola games to handcrafted gifts, knitted treasures, dazzling jewellery, delicious cakes, and a selection of chic clothing from their boutiques. It’s a perfect opportunity for the community to come together, support a noble cause, and perhaps find a furry friend to welcome into their homes.

All proceeds from the event will directly benefit APAA Nerja Dog Rescue, ensuring that every wagging tail gets the care and love they deserve. So mark your calendars, bring your friends and family, and join in for a day of fun and compassion.

THE Vice President of the Fundación Cueva de Nerja José Alberto Armijo, and the mayor of Nerja, have unveiled the ‘Candlelight Gala benéfica Cruz Roja Nerja’ (Red Cross Benefit Gala Nerja) as part of the 2024 Cueva de Nerja Music Festival lineup. The gala, supporting the local Red Cross, is scheduled for Saturday, June 22, starting at 9pm with a dinner and a Coldplay tribute concert. Following this, at 11pm, Cristina Ramos, a rock and opera singer from the Canary Islands, will perform hits by Whitney Houston.

In addition to the gala, the festival will feature ‘Kiss The Planet’ on July 12, a celebration of the 1980s with performances by Nacha Pop, Modestia Aparte, and others. This event, part of Grupo KISS Media’s sustainability initiative, was announced recently by the Foundation’s manager, José M.ª Domínguez.

Tickets for both events go on sale May 30 at cueva denerja.es.

Image: Facebook/ Agueda Saavedra

Image: Shutterstock/ Oliver Hoffmann

TORRE DEL MAR gears up for an electrifying Night of San Juan 2024 with Camela headlining the event. The lineup is packed with Adikey, Corazón Inverso, The Return of the Decade Live, Las Supremas de Móstoles, and DJ Sau & DJ MCFly.

Torre del Mar unveiled the lineup and schedule for the Night of San Juan 2024, set to kick off on June 23 at 7.30pm on El Copo Beach. Jesús Pérez Atencia, the first deputy mayor of Velez-Malaga and councillor for Tourism, said, “We’re here to share the exciting plans for Torre del Mar’s Night of San Juan, an event that always signals the start of a vibrant summer in our municipality.” Highlighting the event’s significance in boosting the local economy, Atencia remarked, “We aim to showcase our municipality as a yearround destination. San Juan in Torre del Mar will once again stand out re-

San Juan 2024

gionally and provincially, offering a diverse programme of activities on June 23.” The musical journey begins at 7.30pm with Adikey and Corazón Inverso, followed by The Return of the Decade, treating the audience to hits from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. This year, they’ll share the stage with the lively Las Supremas de Móstoles.

The pinnacle of the night? A spectacular performance by Camela, undoubtedly a highlight on the Andalucian coast, boasting an impressive track record of platinum

and gold records, with nearly three million albums sold. Attendees can enjoy over 350 kilos of sardine skewers and witness the traditional Júas contest awards ceremony, adding that magical touch to the San Juan festivities, capped off with a fireworks display. DJ Sau and DJ McFly will then keep the energy alive with their tunes.

With a programme catering to all ages, Torre del Mar promises a night to remember, setting the bar high for entertainment along the Costa del Sol in Axarquia.

Beach Festival

THE renowned Weekend Beach Festival is set to electrify Torre del Mar once again from July 4 to 6. Since its inception in 2014, the festival has been a highlight of the summer, offering an eclectic mix of musical genres including pop, rock, reggae, hip-hop, electronic, and indie.

With four stages set against the backdrop of the beach, along with camping facilities and plenty of complementary activities, the event promises an unforgettable experience.

Among the lineup announced for

Weekend Festival 2024 are Mora, Europe, Steve Aoki, Melendi, Álvaro de Luna, Beret, Coque Malla, and La Pegatina, with more to come. For music enthusiasts seeking a vibrant atmosphere and three days of non-stop entertainment, tickets are available on the festival’s official website. Stay tuned for updates and additional information via their website and social media channels. Don’t miss out on this ultimate summer extravaganza! Visit the official website for more details on weekendbeach.es.

Image: Shutterstock/ Gena Melendrez

Which way is best?

DECIDING between

a 30-minute run and 10,000 steps for weight loss depends on various factors, including fitness level, intensity, and personal preference. Both activities offer significant benefits, but their effectiveness can differ based on individual goals and lifestyle.

A 30-minute run, typically at a moderate to vigorous intensity, can burn more calories in a shorter time compared to walking 10,000 steps. Running elevates the heart rate and boosts metabolism, making it a highly efficient form of cardiovascular exercise. For those seeking to maximise calorie burn and improve cardiovascular fitness quickly, running is often the better option.

On the other hand, walking 10,000 steps, which is roughly equivalent to five miles, is a more accessible and sustainable activity for many people. It promotes consistent movement throughout the day, which can con tribute to overall calorie expenditure and is less strenuous on the joints.

Walking is also easier to incorporate into daily routines, making it a viable long-term strategy for weight management.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on personal preferences, physical condition, and long-term adherence.

Sun damage to the skin

ced approach to weight loss, ensuring variety

SUN damage to the skin, caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, can lead to premature ageing, sunburn, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays breaks down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and dark spots. Additionally, it can cause DNA damage in skin cells, potentially leading to ma lignant melanoma and other skin can cers.

To avoid sun damage, it’s essential to take protective measures. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is crucial. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses, further shields the skin from harmful rays. Seeking shade during peak sun

hours, typically from 10am to 4pm, can significantly reduce exposure. It’s also important to avoid tanning beds, which emit harmful UV radiation. Regular skin checks for new or changing moles and spots can aid in early detection of skin cancer.

By adopting these protective measures, individuals can enjoy the sun safely while minimising the risk of sun damage and maintaining healthier skin.

TREATING dark circles under your eyes can significantly improve your appearance and boost your confidence. Begin by ensuring you get adequate sleep, as fatigue often exacerbates dark circles. Incorporate a balanced diet rich in vitamins, particularly Vitamin K and C, which help in reducing discoloration and strengthe ning blood vessels.

Bright eyes

cucumber slices can temporarily reduce swelling and lighten dark circles by constricting blood vessels.

Topical treatments with in gredients like retinol, hyaluro nic acid, and caffeine can effectively diminish dark circles by pro moting collagen production and re ducing puffiness. Cold compres ses or chilled

Additionally, staying hydrated and using a daily sunscreen can prevent further darkening caused by sun exposure. For persistent dark circles, consider consulting a dermatologist for advanced treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy, or

Consistent care and lifestyle adjustments can lead to noticeable improvements

Sponsored by

World Tobacco Day 2024

WORLD TOBACCO

DAY 2024, observed on May 31, continues to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and advocate for effective policies to reduce consumption. This year’s theme, ‘Tobacco and Lung Health’, highlights the severe impact of tobacco on respiratory health, linking smoking to diseases such as chronic

obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and tuberculosis.

Tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable death worldwide, responsible for more than eight million deaths annually. On World Tobacco Day, health organisations and governments globally emphasise the importance of quitting smoking and adopting healthier lifestyles. Various events, educatio-

nal campaigns, and public health initiatives aim to inform people about the risks associated with tobacco and provide resources for those seeking to quit.

Efforts include promoting smoke-free environments, increasing tobacco taxes, and restricting advertising and sales to minors. Additionally, support for cessation programs and access to alternative therapies are crucial in helping smokers quit.

Quirky quick fix

OLD wives’ tales offer a range of quirky spot treat ments, some surprisingly effective. One classic re medy is applying toothpaste directly to a blemish. The paste’s drying agents can reduce inflammation and redness overnight. Another popular solution is ho ney, renowned for its antibacterial properties. Dab a small amount on the spot and leave it for 15 minutes before rinsing.

Aspirin, crushed into a paste with water, is another old favourite. It contains salicylic acid, which helps to reduce swelling and unclog pores. Tea tree oil, with its natural antiseptic qualities, can be applied sparingly to target acne.

Lastly, an ice cube wrapped in a cloth can redu ce redness and swelling. While these remedies are rooted in folklore, many have stood the test of time, proving to be surprisingly effective.

Jelly chic

THE latest trend in beauty is jelly make-up, a fresh approach for a dewy look. Jelly make-up products, including foundations, blushes, and highlighters, have a bouncy, gel-like texture that blends seamlessly into the skin. This texture allows for buildable coverage and a lightweight feel, ideal for a natural, glowing finish.

To achieve the jelly make-up look, start with a clean, moisturised face to create a smooth base. Apply a je -

lly foundation using your fingers or a damp make-up sponge, gently dabbing it onto your skin for even coverage. Follow with a jelly blush on the apples of your cheeks, blending it outwards for a natural flush. For added radiance, use a jelly highlighter on the high points of your face, like the cheekbones, brow bones, and nose. Finish with a light dusting of translucent powder to set the make-up.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Cat collection

ON

Saturday May 25, volunteers for charity AGYA raised €187.50 and a massive 400 kilos (with a value of approximately €1,200) of animal food at the collection point at Carrefour in Estepona.

The explosion in the birthrate of cats is being contained by the Animal Rescue Charity AGYA in Manilva, Casares and Estepona. This voluntary organisation is using the CER/TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release) method, assisting the town halls to solve the problem without killing the animals. AGYA has been carrying out this task since 2013, and up to now the organisation has been self funding.

They maintain 95 feeding stations and support the general care and health of over 4,000 cats in these areas for the local communties. They urgently need more volunteers, donations and sponsorships to continue their work so if you can help please get in touch via the website: https://www.gatosyami gos.com.

Costa Blanca North Global appeal

GENERALITAT is allocating €875,000 to promoting the Valencian Community and enhancing Costa Blanca’s global tourist appeal.

The Counsell authorised the signing of a collaboration agreement between Turisme Comunitat Valenciana and Hosbec (The Hospitality and Tourism Business Association of the Valencian Community), placing the Valencian region at the top of the tourist market in 2024.

With the Valencian Community’s recent achievement of becoming a destination with the most Blue Flags in the world; a large amount of which are in Costa Blanca, the regional efforts to foster and preserve nature, aim to position the coast at the top of sustainable tourism.

The project will also promote summer surveillance on the beaches, including the service of safeguards and drones.

Mallorca Mallorca meets Cannes

THE Mallorcan film industry gathered at the Cannes Film Festival to celebrate its contribution to the international film scene. The event showcased the upcoming Atlantida Mallorca Film Fest (July 20-28) and the Evolution Film Festival (October 30 - November 5). Organised by Screen International in collaboration with the Mallorca Film Commission (MFC), the event highlighted Mallorca’s growing influence in filmmaking and its vibrant festival culture.

During the event, the MFC reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable filmmaking with the introduction of the Green Film Forum. The forum is set to take place on the island in autumn and aims to position Mallorca as a leader in eco-friendly production, reflecting the commission’s dedication to environmental responsibility and innovation.

Tickets are now available for the Atlantida Mallorca Film Fest. Culture lovers will be treated to a feast of film, music, and workshops.

Costa Blanca South Orihuela Pride

GET ready for a one-of-a-kind experience at the inaugural Orihuela Pride Festival, set to paint the town in vibrant hues on Saturday June 1.

Those supporting this event will be treated to a full parade, live performances, and a disco with DJ Angelia Ukraines spinning the tunes.

The Parade will commence at 11am and leave via the Emerald Isle car park. It will then go around the block on Calle Marte before heading down Calle Mercurio, crossing the junction, and continuing down Calle Escorpio, past the Abbey to the bottom of the road. From here, it will come back up Calle Escorpio, past Ariana’s bar and Valdimars, and then continue up Calle Osa Menor.

Then the entertainment really begins with DJ Soraya and a fantastic line-up of live entertainers. The whole extravaganza is being brought to a close with fireworks and a disco.

Almeria

Mojacar keeps winning

NOT only was Mojacar chosen to be the host for the presentation of this year’s SICTED seals of approval, but it was also the recipient for four for its beaches.

The SICTED seal is a project to improve the quality of tourist destinations promoted by the Spanish Secretary of State for Tourism and is valid for two years attesting to the quality of the tourism product offered by a number of municipalities in Almeria.

It’s not just about beaches but the entire range of tourist support which includes accommodation, tourist guides, museums, boat tours, golf courses, hotels, restaurants and much more.

In the case of Mojacar, the four quality seals for the beaches of El Cantal, Lance Nuevo, Marina de la Torre, Venta del Bancal and Ventanicas complements the Blue Flags granted earlier this year.

Costa Calida Local impact

PHASE TWO is a close-knit group with a shared passion for making a difference and supporting local charities. This dynamic team, driven by a shared commitment to social good aims to raise funds for various causes close to their hearts.

Through their dedicated efforts, Phase Two has already achieved significant milestones, including a remarkable fundraising feat for Samaritans Spain. Despite limited promotion time, their relentless drive saw them raise an impressive sum within just one week, underscoring the power of collective action and compassion. They raised €1,600 for Samaritans in Spain. Samaritans in Spain support anyone who is struggling to cope no matter what is worrying them. They offer support to people who may be having suicidal thoughts. Their hotline available from 10am to 10pm every day invites English speakers to reach out.

PETS

Fresh feast

FEEDING your cat or dog a raw diet has gained popularity among pet owners seeking natural, health-focused options.

A raw diet typically includes uncooked meats, bones, organs, and sometimes fruits and vegetables.

Proponents argue that this diet mirrors what animals would eat in the wild, potentially offering benefits such as improved coat quality, increased energy, and better dental health.

For cats, a raw diet of-

ten consists of poultry, rabbit, and fish, while dogs might enjoy beef, lamb, and chicken. It’s crucial to ensure that the diet is balanced, providing all necessary nutrients like calcium, vitamins, and fatty acids.

However, there are risks, including bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalances.

Consulting a veterinarian is essential before switching to a raw diet to ensure it’s safe and suitable for your pet’s specific health needs.

Find animal loving pet-sitters for your pets

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

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

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

HouseSitMatch is Safe - All Members Are Checked

All members are checked for

Our pet-sitters are animal 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.

Trelawney Bresic PETRADAR, a new platform dedicated to reuniting missing pets with their owners, has launched in Spain.

Since its inception in Amsterdam in 2021, PetRadar’s innovative approach has achieved remarkable success. The platform has already assisted 70 Spanish pet owners in their search, successfully locating 54 of the missing pets.

PetRadar works by leveraging the power of social media to

spread the word about missing pets. Based on information provided by the owners, the platform uses targeted advertisements on Facebook and Instagram to alert over 4,000 neighbours within a 1km radius of where the pet was last seen.

David Olthaar, the founder of PetRadar, expressed his enthusiasm for the platform’s achievements and its new expansion into Spain - “We can’t believe we’ve already found more than 12,000 missing pets. For a

PetRadar

in Spain

team of animal lovers, it’s truly heart-warming. Branching out is a new and exciting challenge, and we’re thrilled to be able to help the pet parents of Spain!” Looking ahead, PetRadar aims to foster a strong community of pet owners in Spain. By collaborating with local veterinarians and shelters, such as Protectora de Animales, the platform hopes to create a safer environment for pets across the country. With its innovative use of digital tools and a passionate team, Pet Radar is set to make a significant impact on the lives of pets and their owners in Spain.

38 CLASSIFIEDS

OTHERS

BLINDS

REMOVALS/STORAGE

SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for large glazed areas to reflect heat / glare and stop furniture fading and still keep the view. SAVE HEAT IN THE WINTER to improve your living environment. ian@ solarshadetinting.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (287972)

BUY & SELL

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

CHARITY

New Life Church Whether you live in Nerja or are visiting our area, you are very welcome to come and join us at our Sunday gathering. Join us for a time of Holy Spirit led worship and experience the presence of our God. Our teaching is

Bible based as we honour God and obey His Word. During this time of uncertainty, God’s Word reminds us that the Gospel shines brightest in times of darkness. Our service lasts for about 1 hour and 30 mins. With Tea and Coffee afterwards. Sunday Service 11.00am; Prayer Meetings

Wednesdays 11.00am; Pasaje San Miguel, Nerja, 29780 Email: info@nlcnerja. com Website: www.nlcnerja. com Facebook:www. facebook.com/nlcnerj

CHARITY Shop Pocapecunia we need things for the house/kitchen, decoration, vases, plates, cups, saucers, kitchen tools, paintings, pottery pots and pans etc. Prolongacion Avd. Rodgriguez Acosta, Nr the Parador Roundabout, opposite café Trébol, Nerja (294373)

CHURCH SERVICES

THE ANGLICAN Chaplaincy of Nerja & Almunecar. Every Sunday there is a Holy Communion service at midday in San Miguel church in Nerja. Every Wednesday morning at 9.30 we have an online ‘Zoom’ HC serviceplease contact Fr Nigel with an e-mail address if you

would like to join us. Priest in Charge, Father Nigel Thomas. Tel: Church House - 951 815 736, Mobile: 608 695 756, e-mail:  cofenerja@gmail. com

FOR SALE/WANTED

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

STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www. abbeygateinsure.com (2887610)

MISCELLANEOUS

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

MOTORING FOR SALE

WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)

If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

EDS? We have the solution, K amagra  pills & jells, Cialis,  Si denafil, over 7 products for men & ladies, mixed trial packs.Free delivery throughout Costa del Sol. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394

SOLAR ENERGY

SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for Large Glazed Areas to Reflect Heat / Glare and Stop Furniture Fading and Still Keep The View. Save Heat in the Winter to Improve Your Living Environment. ian@ solarshadetinting.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (258409)

WINDOW TINTING

MOBILE SERVICE. ITV Legal. Solar Reflective tint for glass curtains, balconies, yachts. Stop fading, heat & glare. 958 496 571 - 644 546 176 ian@solarshadetinting.com (287972)

SOLAR PROTECTION

Toyota GR86 - the ultimate experience

PEUGEOT EXTENDS PROGRAMME

TO provide total peace of mind for its customers and encourage them to commit to 100 per cent electric mobility, Peugeot is now offering its Allure Care programme across all electric cars. Peugeot is the first European manufacturer to offer such coverage.

As of May 15, the programme is being rolled out in the following European markets: Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, Poland and Luxembourg.

Peugeot is moving forward with determination and enthusiasm towards its goal of becoming the leader of the European electric market.

To convince all its customers to join this evolution, Peugeot is not only offering a new genera-

Facts at a Glance

• Model: Toyota GR86

• Engine: 2.4-litre, 16-valve, horizontally opposed 4-cylinder petrol developing 234PS/231 bhp

• Gears: 6-speed manual

• Price: €38,170/£32,500

• Performance: 0 – 100kph/62mph 6.3 seconds Max’ speed 225kph/140mph

• Economy: Combined 8.8 l/per 100km/32 mpg

• Emissions: 200g/km

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

tion of 100 per cent electric ve hicles that set the benchmark in their ca tegory but also total peace of mind with the Allure Care programme.

First introduced on the new E-3008, the Peugeot Allure Care programme is now extended to the entire Peugeot 100 per cent electric passenger car range, the most comprehensive of all European generalist manufacturers, including: E-208, E-2008, E-308, E-308 SW, E-3008. The range has recently expanded with the arrival of the new E-5008 and will continue to grow in 2024 with the launch of the new E-408, also set to benefit from the Peugeot Allure Care programme.

Peugeot Allure Care covers the electric motor, charger, transmission, and main electrical and mechanical components for up to eight years or 160,000 kilometres.

Peugeot Allure Care complements the specific Peugeot warranty, already applied to the high-voltage battery for a duration of eight years/160,000 km to offer complete vehicle coverage.

The Peugeot Allure Care coverage activates automatically after each service is performed (two years or 25,000 kilometres) within the Peugeot network.

ANDALUCIA WALKING FOOTBALL LEAGUE

A busy time for Real Calahonda!

AWFL Over

50s

Nerja Utd 0 v 4 Real Calahonda

Nerja began on the front foot but the match soon swung the other way with Real creating a number of scoring opportunities and going in 0-3 up at the break with goals from Andrew, Glen and Trevor, despite several near misses for Nerja. Both keepers performed splendidly in the second half, although it was a goalkeeping error which gave Real’s Glen their fourth goal and secured all three points for the visitors.

AWFL Over 60s

Nerja Utd 3 v 1 Real Calahonda

Para rowing

able to pass the ball around effectively and, in the second half, wracked up five more goals from Carlos, Dai, Bob and Dave with an unfortunate own goal by the home side. Competa held their heads high and fought throughout the match but this was definitely Real’s day!

Axarfusion Over 50s Cup Semi-Final

Internacionales Mollina 0 v 3 Marbella Marbesula

Both defences remained solid for the first half until a Real missplaced back pass allowed Nerja to take the lead in an even game. After the break, Nerja made it 2-0, pouncing on a rebounding save from Tony in the Real goal. Malcolm then pulled one back for Nerja following a corner but, although under some pressure, it was left to Nerja to score their third in a similar manner to the visitors’ goal to

win the game.

Boca Seniors Competa 0 v 6 Real Calahonda

Although the visitors created many of the early chances, it took most of the first half before Carlos Jimenez gave them the lead with a true striker’s goal, with no reply from the hosts. Indeed, with such tight man-to-man marking from Real, Competa found it difficult to mount many meaningful attacks. At the same time, Real were

Despite a place in the Axarfusion Cup Final being at stake, this match was played in the friendliest of spirits, which made refereeing extremely easy! Having struggled in the League as this season’s newbies, Mollina showed how far they have come by putting up a creditable resistance against a powerful Marbella side, who have become reknowned for their slick passing and quick movement. In the end, goals from Osorio, Salido and Pepe Luque put Marbella into the Final against Malaga on June 22 in Mollina.

And elsewhere in Andalucia......

UP to 104 para-athletes will race for speed across 2,000 metres by boat, competing in the Paris Paralympic 2024.

Paralympics introduced para-rowing in 2008, with more than 90 incredible athletes who took part in four medal events.

This year, five medal events will take place, including men with PR1M1x, women: PR1W1x and mixed: with PR2Mix2x, PR3Mix2x and PR3Mix4+.

The three sports classes, PR1-PR3, reflect the impact of the athletes’ disability on their physical performance. PR1 single-scull events are for rowers without trunk or leg function, in which the athletes strap their bodies for support and use two oars.

Mixed double scull races are for PR2 and PR3 rowers, who use two oars and may use legs to slide. In coxed four races, a team of four rowers and a coxswain compete with different types of disabilities, each using one oar.

The 2024 Paris Paralympics competition will take place at the Vaires-Sur-Marne Nautical Stadium, located near Disneyland, which can hold up to 14,000 people.

With para-rowing champions from across the globe, the competition expects to raise the standards.