Mallorca 30 May – 5 June 2024 Issue 2030

Mallorca in 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 30November 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 avai -

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

‘Luka’ singer Suzanne Vega to perform

SUZANNE VEGA will perform in Inca, Mallorca, on July 24 as part of the ‘An Evening with Suzanne Vega - Old songs, New Songs and Other Songs’ tour.

Suzanne’s 1987 hit single ‘Luka’ was pivotal in proving the commercial viability of female singer-song writers, paving the way for artists such as Tracy Chapman and Sinead O’Connor.

Rising to fame in the lates 1980s and early 1990s, Vega’s introspective and melodic songs were inspired by legends like Leonard Cohen, Lou Reed, and Bob Dylan. The American singer-songwri -

A United Island

MALLORCA is united in grief following the Medusa Beach Club tragedy. On Friday May 24, the Balearic Parliament observed a minute of silence, with three days of mourning declared in Palma.

The Playa de Palma Hotel Association expressed deep condolences and support for victims’ families and friends, capturing the mood of the island - “This unfortunate event has struck the heart of our community,” stated the hotel association president, Pedro Marín, “Our thoughts and most sincere condolences are with the family and friends of the victims to whom we convey our support and solidarity.”

ter will be accompanied by her long-time guitarist Gerry Leonard, also known for his work with David Bowie.

International icon, Vega, will perform at the Teatre Principal during the SonsdeNit 2024 festival.

Her tour then moves to Madrid on July 25 and Valencia on July 26.

Suzanne Vega opened doors for female singer/songwriters in the 80s.

Credit: Instagram

Credit: Festival de Cannes

Hollywood icon Demi Moore at the Cannes Film Festival 2024.

The scene of the tragedy in Playa de Palma.

A HUMAN wave of more than 15,000 people ooded the streets of Palma on May 25 in a historic social mobilisation addressing the island’s housing crisis and protesting against excessive tourism. This unprecedented demonstration saw participants from various Balearic and Mallorcan groups, including Save Mallorca, Save the Landscapes of Mallorca, and Stop Evictions.

The protestors assembled early in the afternoon near Plaza de Espana before setting o towards Passeig des Born, chanting slogans, and carrying ban-

Historic March

ners. ‘Mallorca is not for sale’ was the key message.

The demonstration proceeded peacefully through

the city’s centre with participants calling for urgent measures to address the housing crisis exacerbated

Iconic graffiti erased

THE largest piece of gra ti art in Palma, located along the exterior wall of the Mar i Terra site in the es Jonquet neighbourhood, has been completely erased by a luxury developer.

This visually impactful artwork, visible from the Paseo Maritimo and various points in the Port of Palma, was removed last week. Real estate developer XoJay undertook this project, painting the wall black and emblazoning it with the company’s name.

The es Jonquet neighbourhood was declared a Site of Cultural Interest as a ‘Historical site’ in 2008. In September 2023, the Balearic Environment Commission approved the urbanisation project for the Mar I Terra site, designed by architects Jose M Mayol and Antonio Ramis. The removal of the gra ti marks a signi cant change in the neighbourhood’s landscape.

by excessive tourism.

The march highlighted the growing frustration among residents who face skyrocketing rental prices. Organisers and participants called for sustainable tourism polices and housing reforms to protect the island’s residents and environment.

The event marks a signicant moment in Palma’s social activism, re ecting the widespread demand for immediate and substantial changes to ensure that Mallorca remains an accessible environment for its inhabitants.

Palma to New York

UNITED AIRLINES has resumed its non-stop service between Palma and New York for the summer season, with three weekly flights. The inaugural flight has arrived in Palma, marking the return of this highly anticipated route.

The airline will operate the route with a Boeing 767-400, offering a 12 per cent increase in available seats compared to previous years. This service will provide a significant boost to travel options for Mallorca residents.

“With the return of service, customers in Mallorca will be able to take advantage of a direct connection to the US, as well as a network from United’s New York/Newark hub, offering non-stop connections to 73 destinations in America.”

In addition to the Palma-New York route, United Airlines summer 2024 schedule includes new services from Athens to Chicago and Barcelona to San Francisco. This expanded schedule underscores United Airlines’ commitment to enhancing connectivity between Europe and the United States, providing more travel options and convenience for passengers.

Protestors called for urgent housing reforms.

Enjoy a city break in the Big Apple, direct from Palma.

Credit:Lukas Kloeppel Pexels

NIBS EXTRA

New campus

THE new University of Mallorca (UMAC) is anticipated to receive approval in November. The campus will be located in Coll d’en Rabassa. This facility will feature 10 classrooms, nine laboratories, simulation rooms, and adaptable spaces.

Albufera fire

A FIRE in Albufera was confirmed shortly after 3am on May 28. Smoke was visible from a distance, with a moderate breeze complicating the situation. Six planes and helicopters were deployed in the emergency operation.

Tourism rise

SPAIN is poised to welcome a record number of visitors for the second consecutive year, despite rising anti-tourism protests. Travel agency Destina reports a 54 per cent increase in bookings for this year.

Beach shock

SUNBATHERS were shocked to discover Cala Major public beach in Palma, charging up to €70 per day for premium facilities such as luxury deckchairs and umbrellas.

Discover Soller

SOLLER is nestled in the heart of Mallorca’s Serra de Tramuntana. It is a historic town, renowned for its charming centre and picturesque port.

Constitution Square is Soller’s bustling heart. Encircled by significant historical constructions like the baroque town hall, adorned with the Sóller coat of arms, and the Bank of Soller, Constitution Square is a symbol of the town’s legacy. Visitors can savour fresh orange juice at a terrace café, enjoying the view of modernist buildings and the passing historic tram.

A short walk from the square, the Church of Sant Bartomeu is a must-see. Originally a 13th-century temple, the church underwent significant renovations, most notably in 1904, when Joan Rubió i Bellver, a disciple of Antoni Gaudí, designed its striking modernist facade. Featured in the Spanish edition of Ken Follett’s bestseller ‘A World Without End’, this limestone structure captivates with its baroque elements and neo-Gothic bell tower.

The Can Prunera Modernist Museum was cons-

PORT DE SOLLER is a picturesque village nestled in a large horseshoe bay on Mallorca’s west coast, just a tram ride from Soller town.

Unlike many other seaside destinations on Mallorca, which saw overdevelopment in the 70s and 80s, Port de Soller emerged unscathed. With magnicent mountain scenery and

A romantic journey seeped in history.

PORT DE SOLLER

offers two pristine sandy beaches, ideal for a day of relaxation or water sports.

Es Traves Beach, situated on the right side of the port, stretches 800 metres long and 20 metres wide. Known for its calm waters, it offers amenities like showers and walkways for people with reduced mobility.

Soller is one of Mallorca’s most visited towns.

tructed between 1909 and 1911 by Joan Prunera and blends Catalan Modernism and French Art Nouveau.

The museum’s collection focuses on contemporary art from the 19th and 20th centuries, with a special emphasis on works by local artist Juli Ramis Palau.

Soller is a beautiful town with a combination of historical charm, architectural beauty, and cultural richness.

Port de Soller

breathtaking sea views, the village enjoys some of the best sunsets on the island.

The bay features a sandy beach lined by a pedestrian promenade. Cafes, restaurants, shops, and a few hotels dot the promenade, with seafood eateries highlighting the village’s shing har-

bour roots. Recently, contemporary establishments, including upscale restaurants and trendy cocktail bars, have joined the scene.

Key historical landmarks in Port de Soller include the churches of Sant Ramon de Penyafort and Santa Caterina, and the 17th-century

A unique tram journey

THE Soller tram o ers a unique half-hour journey that seamlessly connects the mountains and the sea, from the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana to the port and beach.

Inaugurated in 1913, the Soller tramway is more than just a tourist attraction; it is a vital mode of transport for the town’s residents.

For over a century, locals have relied on it to travel between the town and its port. Historically, the tramway has also served to transport goods - ranging from boxes of sh from the

docks to oranges headed for French ports, and even coal and military supplies to the naval base in Port de Soller.

The rst stop is located at Plaza de España, in front of the historic Soller train station. Here, under the shade of a plane tree, passengers can board the tram. Tickets can be purchased onboard, or through a combined train-tramway ticket, making it convenient for visitors. The tram’s frequent schedule allows ample time for exploring, shopping, or enjoying a leisurely co ee.

Alternatively, passengers can begin their trip from Avenida Cristofol Colom, which links the main square with the Municipal Market.

Torre Picada, which o ers stunning views of the village and surrounding countryside. The Soller Marine Museum, housed in an ancient monastery, showcases the town’s maritime history, reecting its ties to the sea.

Port de Soller o ers a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern sophistication.

This urban beach is conveniently located near restaurants, bars, and hotels, with the historic Soller tram passing through the adjacent pedestrian promenade.

Visitors can also book catamaran excursions to Sa Calobra, Torrent de Pareis, or Cala Tuent from the port.

On the left side of the port, Playa d’en Repic is a 250-metre sandy and pebble beach with calm waters. It provides swimmer services and accessibility features. Nearby, the Lighthouse path leads to the Cap Gros Lighthouse, built in 1859, offering breathtaking sunset views.

Even better, our news online and in print is FREE and we promise to always keep it that way.

Sports values

THE Consell de Mallorca has announced a significant investment of €2.3 million over the span of four years to promote teamwork and inclusion through sports. This initiative shows a commitment to nurturing sporting values in Mallorca.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Direccio Insular d’Esports is set to run from 2024 to 2027. The plan is to promote elite sports by extending support to high performing clubs.

The overarching goal is to instil the values of sportsmanship among children and young people, utilising the influences of leading athletes across various disciplines, including basketball, wheelchair basketball, women’s soccer, volleyball, and water polo.

Among the professional clubs eligible for taking part in the initiative

Medusa Beach Club: The investigation begins

JESSICA T, a 30-year-old volunteer firefighter from Germany, tragically became one of the victims of the Medusa Beach Club collapse having arrived in Mallorca for a relaxing break. Jessica, who had recently aided in flood relief efforts in her home country, flew to Mallorca with her husband to spend a few days enjoying the island together.

Jessica lost her life in the disaster.

The collapse at the Medusa Beach Club has initiated a lengthy judicial process that may span several years. The ongoing investigation, already underway at Palma’s investigative court, aims to

determine whether there are criminal liabilities or if the matter will be resolved in civil court.

Palma’s investigating Court Number 9 began proceedings, taking charge of receiving all reports from Palma City Council and the National Police regarding the in cident’s causes. Investigators are scru tinising the establishment’s licences, recent construction works, and the personnel involved. Should any irregularities leading to the collapse be found, the case may proceed as a criminal matter. However, sources caution that the inves-

are Atletico Baleares and Azul Marino Basket Mallorca.

President llorenc Galmes hailed the move as ground-breaking, emphasising its inclusive approach towards supporting lesser-known sports clubs. He noted - “These clubs, which currently occupy privileged positions, showcase the remarkable quality of Mallorcan sport.”

Echoing this sentiment, Minister Pedro Bestard underscored the Consell’s commitment to promoting positive values through collaborative efforts with sports clubs. Outreach programmes are planned with the aim of reaching a wide audience. There are plans for 76 school visits, impacting over 2,500 children across the island.

tigation could conclude with no criminal charges.

The community awaits further updates as the investigation progresses.

Mallorca receives investment to promote sports values.

Playa de Palma, a place where tourists flock to unwind.

Residents react

APPROXIMATELY 15,000 protestors marched against the negative impact of mass tourism with the message ‘Mallorca is not for sale!’ At the same time, the city was in mourning for the tourists and locals who lost their lives, or were injured, in a tragic building collapse in Playa de Palma. Mallorca appears to be reaching a pivotal point. Residents shared their views with the Euro Weekly News: Pauline Rousse studied business in Strasbourg and has founded the Blue Lioness Mallorca networking and empowerment group. She feels that change depends on innovation at a national and local level - “Mass tourism in Spain has significant environmental consequences, including pollution, depletion of natural resources, and degradation of landscapes. To mitiga-

te these impacts, Spain and the Balearics could shift its focus from mass tourism to alternative economic strategies. Additionally, Spain could adopt policies to attract international start-ups, like Portugal’s special tax system. This would create a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, driving innovation and providing a sustainable income.

Jennifer Nicholson is an artist living in Palma. She would like to see Mallorca become a place where everyone can thrive“Tourism is really a double-edged sword. There are so many small businesses which rely on tourism. With all the natural wonders and fascinating cultural features this country has to offer, I think it’s highly likely that we can strike a balance between tourism and environment and still maintain a strong economy. Everyone can thrive.”

Multicultural ventures

PALMAACATIVA’s headquarters have hosted the inaugural Forum on Economy, Commerce, and Interculturality in Palma. This initiative aims to foster business relationships and highlight the efforts of entrepreneurs from various nationalities based in Palma.

The forum’s creation also sought to provide a stable platform for reflecting on the value of Interculturality in the business world. It aimed to stimulate debate and the exchange of experiences among individuals from different nationalities, offering them a basic understanding of the roles of major business organisations and the Chamber of Commerce. Participants were also informed about the support provided by public administrations to companies.

The events saw participation from the consuls of the USA, Morocco, Germany, Peru and Ecuador. Around 80 entrepreneurs of various nationalities attended. Three panel discussions

were held, focusing on the importance of immigration to the economy of Palma and the Balearic Islands, as well as business financing and support.

Key attendees included Lupe Ferrer, councillor of Economy, Commerce and Self-Employed, and Catalina

This forum marks a significant step towards recognising and integrating the diverse entrepreneurial community in Palma, aiming to strengthen economic ties and support multicultural business ventures.

Barcelo, Director General of Economy and Statistics.

Integrating the diverse entrepreneurial community in Palma.

Protests are spreading across Spain’s islands.

Changes to Meta

CHARITY fundraising in Spain will no longer include features provided by Meta, effective Monday July 1.

It has been announced that, from this date, all fundraising features accessible via Facebook and Instagram will be withdrawn in the European Economic Area (EEC). The full list of affected countries includes Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden.

Any charity that uses the ‘Donate’ button at the top of its Facebook page is advised to redirect it to its website. Meta has confirmed that all affected organisations will be emailed explaining what changes they must make. Once received, they advise that action be

taken as quickly as possible to avoid any loss of funds. They have also confirmed that if you donate to a charity via Meta, the last donation accepted will be June 30. This means the end of being able to select a charity to support in honour of a celebration such as a birthday. This offered a very easy way for charities to gain additional funding from third parties passively. This was also an excellent

opportunity for many to unite friends and family behind a cause they felt passionate about.

There are several alternative crowdfunding platforms that charities might consider using. The challenge is finding one that does not charge too much in administration or commission fees. Perhaps this change will force the crowdfunding industry to re-engineer and improve its current products.

How quickly can a hacker crack your passwords?

TECH company Hive Systems has just updated its password table for 2024. So how easy is it for hackers to crack your passwords? Unfortunately, this won’t make for easy reading!

When did you last update the passwords you use to access websites? Your email? Banking apps? Hive Systems first published its table in 2020 showing how long it would take a hacker to crack passwords from a simple four-character number code to a 16-character password made up of letters, numbers and symbols. They used hardware and software freely available to buy on the internet.

Here are the findings and hopefully nobody reading this uses a password made up of six numbers because any half-competent hacker can bypass that instantly. That’s not 10 seconds or two minutes but ‘instantly’. Mix it up a little and put together a combination of eight lower-case and capital letters and it takes a little longer: one minute! Add in numbers to the mix and it takes all of five minutes and if you chuck in a symbol or two then we’re up to 12 minutes. Still not very secure and now AI is making the hackers job even easier as ChatGPT has many tools hackers can exploit.

The Hive Systems research focuses on the idea that the hacker is working in isolation

and is having to start from scratch to crack your password to show the maximum time required. However, if your password was part of another breach or uses dictionary words then your password will be found instantly.

The good news is a 16-character password made up of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers and symbols would take 119 years to crack. So next time you’re prompted to strengthen your password it might be worth taking notice.

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 becau se they are so used to visitors.”

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

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.”

Jan Törstedt in Spain

Online donate key on keyboard.

Credit: Shutterstock: pixelliebe

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?”

GABRIELA MARIAN

PAULO SILVA

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. Credit: Tarragona

Palma’s Dance Scene

PALMA has a thriving dance scene open to all levels of experience:

gathered in Palma’s Rafal neighbourhood at Victory’s Club. It has become a hub for today’s most popular dance styles including salsa, hip-hop, bachata, kizomba and ballroom.

and workshops at all levels. On weekends, the venue transforms into a nightclub, allowing dancers to show off their skills and enjoy the best Latin music.

of experience, Victory’s

Club boasts a multidisciplinary team of qualified instructors. Their diverse skills and dedication ensure that students not only learn dance techniques but also embrace the club’s core values: passion, continuous improvement, discipline and fun.

Cuban dance is a prevalent style at Victory’s. Originating in the late 1950s in dance halls in Havana, the style saw

A Unique Fusion of Music and Wine Best Sushi Bars in Palma

PORRERES is set to host a one-of-a-kind festival that celebrates both passion for music and the world of wine with Raim Festival, on June 1.

a renaissance in the late 1960s and continues to be a vibrant part of the dance scene. Another popular Batjoc, situated in Son Castello. This venue offers a spacious dance floor for salsa, bachata and kizomba lo-

The club offers workshops led by local and guest

Sala PalmaBa, on Passatge Particular, offers a wide variety of dance styles including salsa, tango and waltz. All levels, from beginners to advanced, are welcome.

Known for its vibrant ‘La Noche de Cuba/Tropical Party’ on Fridays, Sala PalmaBall offers dance lovers the opportunity to become part of Palma’s exciting dance culture.

Attendees will have the opportunity to discover wines from renowned local wineries such as Oloron, Mezquida Mora, Can Feliu, Vino de la Isla, Jaime de Puntiró, Son Juliana, Vidal Serra, Finca Ses Talaioles, and Blanca Terra.

The local wine of Mallorca finds its essence in its surroundings, achieving expression through all five senses.

The festival, featuring music from Monkey Doo, Cacao, and Aina Losange, will open its doors at 6.00pm, promising an evening of entertainment, street food and wine.

There are a range of activities for children, including ‘Vintage Stories’, an immersive story-telling experience. Young visitors will be introduced to the magic of vineyards, including tales about the grape, the bud, and the

Trelawney Bresic

PALMA is an incredible city for food lovers, offering tastes and aromas from around the world. Here are some of the best sushi bars in the city.

HARAJUKU , located at Joan Crespi 36, has an innovative gastronomic concept, blending traditional Japanese techniques with a fusion of flavours using the finest ingredients.

The menu offers unique creations such as the Tori Roll, featuring crispy chicken and red berries teriyaki, and the Soft-Shell Roll, with tempura crab and passionfruit mayonnaise. The signature Harajuku Roll combines prawns, flamed salmon, and tobiko. This fusion cuisine offers a unique dining experience.

Ta-ke is a Japanese fusion bar in the heart of the Terrano neighbourhood. The intimate bright space features large windows and wooden décor that stays true to Japanese aesthetics. The Ta-ke team has crafted a menu filled with flavour, textures and high-quality ingredients. Located at Pl.de Francesc Rossello Pintor, this is a place to enjoy exceptional food and great service.

MarChica has returned to Palma, aiming to reclaim its status as a local

favourite. Located in an exceptional spot with sea views, MarChica offers a warm, serene atmosphere. Guests can enjoy high-end international cuisine and great sushi, including dishes like Tataki de Salmon Ahumado and Crispy Toro.

Urban Sushi offers an authentic Japanese dining experience, perfect for lunch or dinner. The restaurant, located on 11 Caro Street, Santa Catalina, is a foodie paradise.

Prefer dining at home?

Urban Sushi offers a delivery service, prepared to order for maximum freshness.

vineyard ecosystem. Additionally, the festival offers a

and adults alike can enjoy a sparkling make-over. Porreres is found in

culture, this charming Mallorcan municipality stands out for its rich his-

Become part of Palma’s dynamic dance scene

Enjoy music, food and wine at Raim Festival.

Credit: Marko Zirdum Pexels

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

BUSINESS

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’.

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.

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.

Areas of Italy repopulated with wild bears.

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.

• 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.

Axarquia Tourist tax

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).’

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.

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.

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

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.

PetRadar in Spain

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 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.

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Para rowing

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 of human stamina and dedication, emphasising the power and future of para-athletics.

Game changing

THE recent extension of tennis tournaments in Madrid and Rome from eight days to nearly two weeks has been a lucrative move for organisers.

More competition days mean increased ticket sales, extended TV coverage, and greater financial gains.

However, while these changes

tournaments, likening it to a superhero feat.

One key issue for top players is the perception that these extended Masters-level events are attempting to emulate Grand Slam tournaments but still lack the same level of prestige.

Players like Victoria Azarenka

emphasise the importance of balancing the desire for more dramatic tournaments with the need to consider the well-being of players.

The issue of injuries, particularly to top young players like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, has brought further attention to the debate surrounding tournament

Enjoying sport

ONE of the great advantages for children living in Spain is the weather which in turn allows them to enjoy sports in all of its forms.

le some players, like vedev, believe the two-week format and day off between matches are beneficial and unlikely to cause injuries, others, like Rafael Nadal, acknowledge

Schools do encourage competitive sports and local councils provide a great selection of public facilities plus there are also numerous clubs that welcome youngsters of all ages.

Apart from sports played outside such as athletics, basketball, football, golf, netball, rugby, tennis and even cricket, there are indoor facilities such as swimming pools, gymnasiums where the practise of martial arts is very popular and much more with some suggesting that dance should also be considered a sport.

No matter what your child’s interest may be, even if it’s as cerebral as chess then there is bound to be a club or facility either in their school or relatively nearby.

Japanese vigour

FROM the streets to the world´s most prestigious sports event; Japanese street skateboarding champions aim to lead in the 2024 Olympics.

Debuted in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, skateboarding has never been more popular, especially in Japan; now expecting more than 20 exceptional Japanese skaters to compete in Paris.

“The level of Japanese skateboarders is high and the real battle begins here,” said the skating world champion, Sora Shirai.

This summer, Japan can potentially earn up the three men’s and three women’s berths in Paris.

The current list of Japan’s top 10 skateboarders is now dominated by Shirai, Kairi Netsuke, Ginwoo Onodera, Yuto

Horigome and Toa Sasaki in the men’s team and Momiji Nishiya, Oda Yumeka, Liz Akama, Funa Nakayama, Coco Yoshizawa and Miyu Ito in the women’s league.

The head of World Skate, Niall Neesom, explained the appeal of skateboarding in Japan: “The thing about Japan is it grafts schools on other movements.

“There are Japanese schools in art.

“There are Japanese schools in jazz. And there are Japanese schools in skateboarding.

“I only see myself winning the title,” said the 15-year-old Oda Yumeka, one of the young Japanese skaters to claim the 2024 Olympic triumph.

So many parents complain about their child’s obsession with social media and virtual games but to a great extent it is their fault for not enforcing rules which require the youngster to put down the phone, take off the pods and actually get out and enjoy exercise with their friends.

Not everyone is going to be the next Nadal or Messi and it is important that parents don’t try to live their sporting past though their children, but with encouragement coupled with advice from their school, there is no doubt that they can enjoy a healthy and productive sporting life.

Equally, as children grow, they have to be careful not to over extend themselves or to become too obsessed with their chosen sport and that’s where parental guidance is so very important.

Rafael Nadal.