Costa de Almeria 13 – 19 June 2024 Issue 2032

Moors and Christians

John Smith

ALTHOUGH it could be argued that as blood was often shed before the Christians regained Spain from the Moors, dressing up as a Moor shouldn’t be popular.

That was far from the case in Vera which celebrated its Moors and Christians Festival on Saturday June 8 and thousands attended the celebration.

Perhaps when the fiesta was re-introduced just 10 years ago, it was recognised the Moors had much more flamboyant clothing and this is why so many troupes, particularly young women, side with the Moors.

So much happened in a relatively short period of time, but locals had been getting ready for the event, with the Moors and Christians Tapas Route which ran until June 10, the parade of Big Heads which attracted many children as they marched with the Municipal Band and the exhi-

bition of medieval armour and flags which was held at the Victoria Convent.

It was a shame that there were insufficient entries to allow the usual living chess battle between children dressed as Moors and Christians to take place but

this didn’t diminish the excitement that that those watching the event felt.

There was a smell of gunpowder, the clatter of horse’s hooves and ceremonial handing over of the keys to the ancient gates to the town.

Costa de Almeria • Issue No. 2032 • 13 - 19 June 2024 FREE

GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS GRATUITO VRIJ

One of the colourful troupes in Vera adopting the Moorish style.

Boar war

RECENT statistics have shown that a wildlife management firm contracted by Almeria City Council has successfully culled 70 wild boars.

Despite these efforts, these animals persistently infiltrate Cabo de Gata, drawn to the easy pickings from rubbish bins.

The contracted operations, which will extend for another nine months, have significantly outperformed the council’s own attempts last summer and autumn, which saw around 60 boars captured.

The persistent sightings of boar families near food venues and residential areas in Cabo de Gata highli-

ght the ongoing issue.

Aviumcontrol, the wildlife management company, employs cage-traps to catch the boars, minimising animal distress by ensuring they are caged for the shortest time possible, with veterinary oversight.

The captured boars are eventually euthanised. This strategy is backed by the Government of Andalucia as a response to the growing boar population.

Moreover, efforts have intensified around the University of Almeria, La Cañada, and other boar-prone areas like La Vega and Torrecardenas.

Jessica Sweeting RICH BOYS and their toys might be in for an expensive summer especially in the coastal areas of the Cabo Natural Park, Gata-Nijar.

It has been revealed that in 2023, fines of more than €150,000 were issued in Almeria in respect of misuse of jet skis.

Now, the Cabo de Gata People’s Associations which is made up by 13 different interested groups has appealed for ideally, a ban, but at the very least restrictions, on the riders of jet skis in the Cabo de Gata nautical area.

Jet skis

The argument is that travelling at high speeds and often handled by those who are not expert there is not only a danger to the safety of those

IT seems surprising that quite a few criminals are associated with either producing counterfeit or smuggling cigarettes.

There is probably greater profit in making counterfeits but then there is a much greater upfront cost in finding premises, equipment, staff and sources of tobacco so smuggling seems to be more popular.

Recently announced by the Spanish Customs Authority is that towards the end of May following months of in-

swimming but unseen damage can also be caused to the aquatic flora and fauna in what is supposed to be a protected area.

Up in smoke

vestigation, officers stopped a vehicle near to Adra and discovered that the car contained no less than 9,500 packets of a selection of different brands, all with no tax seals.

The person involved was known to supply third parties in much of Andalucia and the secrets that were seized had a value in excess of €50,000 if properly registered.

WILD BOARS: Are drawn to easy pickings from rubbish bins.

HIGH SPEED: How safe is this?

Credit:

English movie

THE ‘biopic’ about the life of Amy Winehouse Back to Black will have two screenings in English at the Cine Sala Federico García in Albox on June 15 at 6.30pm and June 16 at 6pm with entry costing €6.

Rubbish lifted

SOME 20 volunteers took to the beaches at Roquetas de Mar to take part in a charity rubbish collection and even they were surprised at the amount and range of garbage that had been discarded.

Swimming pool

THE Municipal Swimming Pool in Los Gallardos will open its doors for the summer on June 21 and opening hours will be 11am to 8pm Monday to Sunday.

Voter apathy

THOSE entitled to vote in the 2024 European Elections in Almeria weren’t rushing to the polling stations as latest reports record the fact that just under 35 per cent bothered to vote and this was almost 12 per cent down on the 2019 election.

Zurgena and La Alfoquia

THE town of Zurgena is closely associated with neighbouring La Alfoquia and between them have a population of just over 4,200 people.

They are typical small villages which offer the basic needs of residents with schools, a medical centre, English speaking chemist, shops, bars, restaurants, post office and a swimming pool.

Tracing their existence back to neolithic times, the area is generally very good for the growing of fruit and vegetables and La Alfoquia was situated on the Roman Road known as Ruta Verte which linked

19th century, the arrival of rail tracks meant that Zurgena became one of the most important stations in

the area and although it’s a long time since trains ran through the

San Juan

THE village of Zurgena will be hosting the Night of San Juan on Saturday June 22 in the Plaza de la Iglesia, although the celebrations actually start at 1pm.

There will be typical local food available as well as a Henna workshop and inflatable mattresses for the youngest.

At 6pm there is Flamenco Dancing with a young local group and followed by the San Juan

Announcing the event.

Procession at 8pm with music lasting until midnight and the traditional lighting of the flames.

Jumping over bonfires at midnight is one of the many traditions of the Noche de San Juan fiesta although for those inland, it’s not as easy to arrange as those on the coast who also traditionally jump into the sea as well as San Juan was John the Baptist.

Futsal’s richest

FOR those who don’t know what Futsal is, it’s a bit like five-a-side football being played on a basketball court but uses a smaller ball.

One of the largest Futsal events held throughout Spain thanks to the value of its prizes will take place on June 22 and 23.

The 24 Hours Football – Sala de Zurgena is sponsored by the Almeria Provincial Council and is timed to coincide with a Sports Car Exhibition and Moha Frees-

tyle Exhibition of ball control

The vice president of the Provincial Council, José Antonio García, and the mayor of Zurgena, Domingo Trabalón, revealed details of the event on June 6 with prices of €3,000 for the winning team, €1,500 for the runners up and €500 for the losing semi-finalists.

Between 12 and 16 teams are expected to take part and there will also be trophies for top scorer and goalkeeper who has let in the lowest number of goals.

The sport was first created in Uruguay in 1930 and has been celebrated in Almeria for the past 40 years.

railway station has been saved and will be at the heart of the Zurgena Rail Festival which takes place in August of this year.

Like most Spanish communities, festivals play an important part in life, with the Easter processions attracting visitors from all over the province to witness some of the unique festivities which take place during Holy Week.

Other festivals of note take place on July 16 in celebration of patron saint the Virgen del Carmen in La Alfoquia and San Ramón Nonato on August 31 in Zurgena whilst in 2024, for the first time, Zurgena celebrated St Patrick’s Day.

BASED in La Alfoquia, Harmony is a community support group which was founded in 2015 by Karen Revel. It is committed to providing voluntary, practical and informative assistance to those in need, particularly people who are struggling to find specific help not provided by existing charities. Since that time, it has become an important part of the community and regularly assists different organisations and individuals who need funding in particular. The latest action saw Linda Bennett and Lin Lyons hand over a donation to a representative of the Juan Andrés Toledo school at the beginning of June. Also in attendance to thank the Association on behalf of the town hall of Zurgena was Councillor Ana Maria Campos. No doubt the funds will be put to good use by the school which teaches children up to the age of 12 before they move on to the senior school.

Murcia with Granada.

Celebrating St Patrick’s Day in Zurgena.

Nijar fire

MANY outbreaks of wildfire can be blamed on the stupidity of human beings or deliberate acts of arson, but not that which struck Nijar on the evening of Thursday June 6.

This was what is known in insurance terms as ‘an act of God’ as an electrical storm saw bolts of lightning strike in various parts of the municipality, causing a number of separate fires to start.

Some 200 people had to evacuated from their properties as a precaution whilst an Infoca Command Post was set up to cope with the pressure of dealing

with so many fires.

Happily although the fires continued to burn for several days, they were generally contained and those who had been evacuated were able to return home.

This was the first major forest fire of the year in Almeria and it saw more than 200 firefighters and support officers backed by aerial resources tackle the fires which claimed 1,800 of mainly brush.

It was finally declared completely extinguished at 10pm on Monday, June 10.

King Charles’ Birthday

HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, Kings Charles The Third, is set to take place in the Trooping of the Colour on Saturday June 15, celebrating the monarch’s birthday. While his Majesty’s day of birth is November 14, the Trooping of the Colour has always been the marked official birthday of the Sovereign since the reign of King Charles The Second. This spectacle of military dress will allow his Majesty to enjoy such a special occasion in far better weather conditions than November, and is a welcome celebration after his recent return to royal duties amid his battle with cancer over the last few months.

His Majesty will be inspecting the Guardsmen and officers of Number Nine and Number Twelve Company of The Irish Guards. The Trooping will include over 1,400 parading active soldiers, 200 horses, and 400 musicians. It is sure to be a grand spectacle for the celebration of his Majesty King Charles The Third.

Credit: Nijar Council

Brave firefighters combated the blaze.

Sacred Heart

AFTER 50 years, a wooden statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus finally returned to La Concepción Parish Church in Albox.

It was sent away for restoration in 1974 to the Diocesan Sanctuary of Saliente whilst work was undertaken on the parish church.

After the work was

completed in 1978, there appears to have been no room for it to be returned and it became a permanent fixture in the Saliente church.

In the same way that the Albox church had to be restored, so the Saliente one underwent similar reconstruction and it transpired that the statue was in a very

poor state of repair so thanks to a generous local donor, the statue was sent for restoration.

Finally on Sunday June 9, the statue was reinstated in Albox during a special Mass where it was once again when it received a formal blessing by way of welcoming it back.

The statue returned to its original home.

Credit: La Concepción Parish Church in Albox.

Paws Patas

THE Vice President of Paws Patas animal rescue charity Chrissie Cremore put out a plea on local social media forums.

The charity was welcoming a number of overseas volunteers and was basically looking for some form of inexpensive caravan that could be used as accommodation.

A local couple contacted the charity to say that they knew a Danish woman who had returned to her home country because she was ill and wanted to dispose of the caravan.

There is always a but and in this case, the caravan was actually registered in the name of the lady’s late husband and he hadn’t left a will but in the end, all was cleared so that it

could be passed to the charity.

Next problem for the charity was arranging for it to be moved but another helpful person decided that she should do the right thing and arrange to pay for a grua to pick the caravan up and deliver it to Paws Patas which she did.

A number of people were involved in helping the charity and they all deserve to be mentioned, Chrissie Cremore (Vice President), Chris Stokes and Sue Freakes who liaised with the caravan owner, Vanessa Maipauw (Shelter Manager), oversea volunteers needing accommodation and Allison Kissane who paid for the cost of the grua.

Credit: Paws Patas

All of those involved outside the caravan.

Words of praise

TURQOISE WATERS: En medio cove is hemmed in by cliffs.

A TRAVEL writer for The New York Times has decided to promote Almeria as having one of the most beautiful coves in the whole of the Mediterranean.

Situated in the Cabo de Gato, it’s certainly not the easiest beach to reach as according to the local tourism site, it is an excellent cove but only for those who deserve it because of access.

Effectively the En medio cove is hemmed in by cliffs, has great sand and pure water, but unless you travel by boat, there is quite a long car journey followed by a 3km walk.

In The New York Ti-

mes’ article, the writer refers to it as “a beach whose waters are shallow and has white rocks around it, with fine sand and the turquoise water so transparent that you see through it.”

In the summer months many of the more acces -

sible beaches on the Almeria coast become quite crowded, so if you are fit and fancy some tranquillity maybe this is the place to go, although after the publication of the review, you might hear a number of American voices.

Coach and boat trip

IF you enjoy a day out with a guide which includes a boat trip, then the Zurgena Council’s next organised

tour takes place on Saturday June 15 . The trip to Agua Amarga will see a journey by coach where there will be a tour of the Mesa Roldan Lighthouse as well as a trip on a boat from Agua Amarga which passes through Cala de San Pedro.

Anyone who takes part is advised to bring something to wear on your head, a swimming costume, a towel, sunscreen and water. The coach leaves at 8am from outside of Cajamar in Zurgena and 8.05am from La Alfoquia.

Cost is €39 per person and after registering your interest with the council, payment must be made to the Zurgena Council bank account at the local Cajamar branch.

The account number is ES71 3058 1005 90 2732100054

Star Wars sensation

A RARE Boba Fett action gure has sold for $525,000 (£411,000), making it the world’s most valuable Star Wars action gure.

This hand-painted, missile- ring model is one of only two remaining.

Produced in 1979, they were never released to the public due to choking hazard concerns.

The gure was sold at Heritage Auctions’ Star Wars Signatu- re Auction, more than doubling the previous record of $236,000 (£185,000) set in 2022 for another rocket- ring Boba Fett.

It also surpassed the price paid for the world’s most expensive Barbie doll, a unique model adorned with a one-carat diamond, which sold for $302,500 (then approximately £192,000) in 2010.

“The rocket- ring Boba Fett action gure has become such a legendary icon that people worldwide recognise it even if they don’t collect anything at all,” explained Joe Maddalena, Exe-

cutive Vice President of Heritage Auctions.

“We knew this one had a chance to enter the record books, and it was thrilling to see it become the most valuable toy in the world.”

The action gure, created by toy company Kenner, was initially intended to be sent for free to anyone who had purchased at least four other Star Wars gures.

It was advertised as having a ket- ring backpack’. However, Kenner modi ed their model after reports that competitor Mattel’s missile- ring Battlestar Galactica toys posed choking hazards.

They decided to glue the rocket in place, leaving a note inside the box: “The launcher has been removed from the product for safety reasons.”

UK airport restrictions

RESTRICTIONS on carrying liquids are again in place at six airports across the UK. This change a ects passengers using Aberdeen, Leeds Bradford, London City, Newcastle, Southend, and Teesside airports.

Once more, anyone travelling from these airports will only be permitted to carry liquids with a maximum volume of 100ml in their hand luggage. All liquids carried in this way must be placed in a clear plastic bag prior to being passed through security. The impacted airports are working diligently to minimise disruption. They advise that passengers pack liquids in their hold luggage wherever practical.

The need to control the carrying of liquids came into e ect in 2006 after a foiled plot to bomb a transatlantic ight. The rules

then became obsolete following the introduction of Next Generation Security Checkpoints (NGSC), which can create a 3D image of hand luggage contents. Airports operating these scanner systems permit liquids up to two litres.

The Department for Transport has reiterated that the need to reinstate these security measures is not in response to any speci c threat. Moreover, it is “to enable further improvements to be made to the new checkpoint systems.”

Transport Secretary Mark Harper advises passengers to check airport websites for speci c rules before travelling. He said, “For most passengers, actually, the rules haven’t changed at all yet, and won’t therefore change tonight.”

He further advised, “It’s a temporary measure, and we will set out when that can be reversed in due course.”

Image: Heritage Auctions

Restrictions on carrying liquids in hand luggage.

Boba Fett action figure.

Bicycles giveaway Prague likes RR & Bentley

THERE is no doubt that the Czech Republic has recovered from its long period of communist rule and boasts a modern economy within the European Union.

It is unlikely that in the old days, an organisation such as the Rolls Royce and Bentley Club could have existed but now enjoying its 21st anniversary there are plenty of these luxury cars in the country.

Proud owners delight in showing off their vehicle, be it a classic, vintage or modern model and they held their ninth open get-together in Prague on Saturday June 8.

They anticipated a large number of people turning up to enjoy the sight of 100+ plus vehicles, some of which come from overseas and include other luxury cars such as Ferrari, Maserati, Jaguar, Lotus and Mercedes-Benz.

There was music from the Czech blues rock band The Villains, a performance from motorcycle stuntman Lukáš Petrácek and visitors could enjoy being bumped around on an off road track.

The children were not forgotten as there were bouncy castles, face painting, food and under 15s were admitted free.

AMSTERDAM is renowned for bicycle popularity worldwide; now, the city expands the cycling experiences to all residents, regardless of their financial status.

Some 3,250 bicycles are now being given to residents and organisations across Amsterdam, especially granting the vehicles to refugees and asylum seekers. Most of these have never had cycling experience, hence the city is implementing a teaching programme, including children and adults.

“We shape our streets; then, they shape us,” stated Modacitylife on X, highlighting the importance of cycling for Amsterdam.

“Culture doesn’t occur in a vacuum… It’s built around the infrastructure we build in cities. And it can change. Fast.”

Not only does this campaign create more mobility for the residents, but it tackles the issue of old bicycles. According to the local Press, tens of thousands of unclaimed bicycles, incorrectly parked and abandoned, fill depots past their capacity.

These vehicles will now be refurbished and granted to citizens who need it most, making Amsterdam one of the most accessible cities worldwide.

Just some of the vehicles that were anticipated to be on view.

Rolls Royce and Bentley Club Facebook

Air we go

Anna Ellis

AMSTERDAM has ins talled 10 smart tyre pumps, all freely available for drivers to use.

But what sets a smart tyre pump apart from a regular one?

The advantages are plentiful.

Many drivers aren’t sure how much air their vehi cle’s tyres need, often resulting in underinfla tion or even leaving the tyre stations with tyres less inflated than when they arrived, due to improper usage.

Underinflation presents a problem because it forces car engines to work harder to move the vehicle, leading to increased CO2 emissions.

With these smart tyre pumps, drivers simply enter their car or motorcycle’s number plate, and the device shows the amount of air needed.

Free and user-friendly, these pumps not only benefit the environment by reducing fuel consumption but also

offer long-term savings on vehicle expenses for drivers.

Moreover, there’s the crucial aspect of improved road safety.

Properly inflated tyres enhance road grip, reducing the risk of a blowout and contributing to smoother, safer driving.

Additionally, maintaining correct tyre pressure means fewer microplastics in the air, soil, and waterways, as tyres are a major source of this pollution.

Proper tyre pressure reduces the number of rubber particles shedding from tyres and entering the sewage system.

Lastly, these smart tyre pumps are constructed from sustainable materials and operate on solar energy, aligning with efforts to promote environmental sustainability.

More alcohol sales

DIRECT sales from Sweden’s vineyards will begin next year, as the Swedish government passes a bill to benefit local producers.

“This is a freedom reform,” stated the Prime Minister, Ulf Kristersson about the matter. The bill covers 600 breweries, distilleries and other manufacturers in Sweden, allowing on-site alcohol sales.

According to the Social Affairs Minister, Jakob Forssmed, all alcoholic beverages will be up for sale directly from the producers but in limited form; 0.7 litres of spirits and three litres each of wine, strong beer and other fermented drinks will be available for sale, per person, in 2025.

Although beneficial for local businesses and tourism, the reform caused concerns of sobriety organisations such as IOGT-NTO, who worry the bill will increase alcohol consumption and reduce the efficiency of health measures.

Many fear this will also challenge the alcohol monopoly and clash with European standards.

Sweden’s Prime Minister, however, stated about the bill; “Sweden is becoming a little too much like Europe,” remaining committed to the government’s decision.

Smart tyre pumps.

Image: Gemeente Amsterdam

Golden Visa shuffle

THE era of golden visas in Europe is ending, with countries like Portugal and the Netherlands discontinuing or altering their schemes.

Portugal eliminated real estate investment as a qualifying factor in October, and the Netherlands terminated its programme in January 2024 with Spain following suit.

Despite this trend, a few EU countries continue to offer golden passports. Malta, for instance, requires a minimum investment of €690,000 for citizenship within 12 to 36 months.

Hungary plans to revive its golden visa scheme on July 1, 2024, with three residency routes: real estate investment (minimum €250,000), residential property purchase (minimum €500,000), or a €1 million donation to higher education.

Italy’s golden visa, introduced in 2017,

offers non-EU nationals a two-year residence permit for a minimum €500,000 investment in an Italian limited company. Applicants can include their families and benefit from a special tax regime.

After 10 years of residence, they may be eligible for citizenship.

Greece provides one of the fastest golden visa processes, issuing permits within 60 days.

Previously, Greece had a €250,000 investment threshold for property, but this was raised to €500,000 in May 2023 for areas like Greater Athens, Thessaloniki, and certain islands, to make real estate more affordable for locals.

The €250,000 threshold remains for other regions.

Golden visa holders in Greece are not required to reside in the country to maintain their visas.

Views of the Tâmega River and the historic area of Amarante, Portugal.

Image: Jorge Manuel Bras Reis / Shutterstock.com

AYUNTAMIENTO DE

MOJACAR

Plaza del Ayuntamiento, 1 - 04638 Mojácar (Almería) Telef. 950.615.009 Fax: 950.475.200

info@mojacar.es ayuntamiento.mojacar.es

Closing ceremony

Jessica Sweeting

AS anticipated, the closing ceremony of the municipal sports schools was held on Thursday June 6 at the Mojacar Football Ground,. It was attended by all of the athletes, their parents, friends and Council representatives.

More than 300 students came together to celebrate and bring to a close the 2023-2024 school year for the different disciplines and medals were presented to all of the athletes to recognise their effort and participation.

Mojacar mayor, Francisco García, was accompanied by his team to present the medals and to thank all those attending for their participation and promotion of sport in the municipality. The event began with numerous displays, from fun dances by the very youngest, the staging of the Municipal School of Rhythmic Gymnastics including interprovincial champions in their category,

Photos wanted

IF you are a dab hand with a camera and thinking of visiting Mojacar on the weekend of June 14 and 16 for the Moors and Christians event, you could be a winner.

The Mojacar Council is holding a competition for best photographs in a number of di erent categories, including Male and Female Moors, Male and Female Christians, Young Fiesta goers, Black and White photo and Marching Formations.

Download the application form at https://ayuntamiento. mojacar.es/ and if successful you could win €150 and/or a certi cate of participation.

and a dance by older gymnasts, who all demonstrated the skills acquired during the course.

After the displays, the students paraded, organised by disciplines and categories to receive their medals

and to begin an afternoon of socialising. The youngest children were also able to enjoy a foam party and different bouncy castles set up on the football pitch, adding an extra touch of fun to the day.

Healthy habits

THERE is no question that as you get older, joints begin to seize up a little and it is important to exercise safely and eat the correct foods.

Being aware of this, the Mojacar Council has taken part in the 15th Healthy Habits Week promoted by the Andalucian Ministry of Health of the Andalucian Regional Government, by introducing a therapeutic exercise workshop for the elderly of the community.

The event, which took place on Friday May 31, included therapeutic exercise, stretching and relaxation, and was attended by around 20 volunteers,

aged between 60 and 70.

As a welcome start for the day, the Council Sports Department invited those taking part to enjoy a breakfast in order to ‘charge the batteries’ ready for the forthcoming activity.

Physiotherapists, Silvia Ferrer and Paloma Co-

llado, were in charge of leading the workshop, highlighting the importance of participants seeing the bene ts of therapeutic exercise.

José Luis Ordóñez, who also collaborated in the event, stressed the importance of taking care of the body and staying active.

International art

RENOWNED as a municipality that welcomes residents and visitors from far a eld, Mojacar has inaugurated an exhibition by Serbian artist Divna Nikolic. It is now open at the Municipal Art Centre La Fuente and for this exhibition the artist has selected a total of 83 works made with di erent techniques, including engravings, oil paintings and mosaics on natural stones.

Serbian-born Divna Nikolic is a visual artist, mosaicist, art teacher and writer who has been living in Spain for more than 20 years, where she runs several art workshops.

She learned the technique of mosaic while she was studying and continues to work on it, cutting each of the stones that make up her works one by one.

Divna’s mastery in the use of mosaic components allows her to develop works that possess a richness and depth comparable to that of the most sophisticated paintings, demonstrating how this ancient art can be reinvented and continue to re ect the contemporary era.

Visitors to the exhibition which will remain open until Saturday June 29, will also have the opportunity to meet the artist herself every Saturday.

Andalucia speaks

IF you are not Spanish it is sometimes di cult to recognise di erent regional accents although the sibilance of those from Madrid is quite easy to spot.

The University of Granada is taking this very seriously and is preparing the Interactive Linguistic Atlas of Andalucian Accents.

The goal is to document and analyse the diversity of accents in the autonomous community of Andalucia even though accents are becoming less regionalised.

Mojacar Council is pleased to be involved in this investigation and the councillor for Culture, Noemí Linares welcomed Alfredo Herrero de Haro, the director of the project, to the municipality.

Some four residents of Mojacar who have never lived outside of the town will be studied and their accents will be reported on and recorded as being typical of the area.

The project involves the collection of voice recordings of speakers from 500 Andalucian localities, the analysis of which will be presented through 292 interactive maps hopefully by the end of 2026.

One of the teams following the medal presentation.

Those taking part enjoyed the exercise.

Credit: Mojacar Council

Opening of the exhibition.

Credit Mojacar Council

Where have all the babies gone

FINLAND now has fewer than one million children.

With 43,383 babies born in 2023, the fertility rate of 1.26 children per woman was the lowest since records began in 1776.

Talking to the media, Venla Berg, a leading researcher at the Family Federation of Finland’s Population Research Institute said that this decline was too rapid.

“We should at least try to slow down the diminishing birth rates,” she warned.

These were dropping worldwide, Berg said, although this was more noticeable in Finland.

cians appeared to have little interest in investments that would encourage a rise in the birthrate.

“This sends a message that having kids in Finland is difficult,” she said, adding that population growth was not linked to an excessive number of births.

“People are living longer,” she explained.

German cannabis laws

GERMANY’S parliament, the Bundestag, has implemented stricter regulations regarding driving under the in uence and oversight of cannabis growers’ associations.

These adjustments aim to strike a balance between personal freedom and public safety.

She also pointed out that an ever-smaller number of babies affected everybody, whether or not they wanted children themselves.

Although immigrants were helping to solve the problem, there would soon be a disproportionate number of elderly people for every person of working age.

With fewer workers contributing to the economy, a small number of adults would need to care for a large number of the elderly.

Berg also commented that when there were few children, politi-

The new law establishes a legal equivalent to the risk associated with the current legal blood alcohol limit of 0.2 per cent. Additionally, driving with any level of cannabis in the blood will be accompanied by a complete alcohol ban to prevent potentially dangerous interactions between the two substances. New drivers will also face a blanket no-cannabis policy.

Beyond driving restrictions, the Bundestag granted federal states greater control over the operation of o cial cannabis growers associations (Anbauvereine) starting this July. These associations will be legally permitted to cultivate and distribute cannabis to their members. States will now have the authority to

Germany’s cannabis laws reflect ongoing efforts to balance public safety with personal liberty.

establish regional limitations on the size of cannabis farms and the legal amount of cannabis individuals can possess.

This latest development comes after years of debate in Germany. In February, Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition government passed landmark cannabis legislation, permitting individuals to carry up to 25 grams of cannabis and cultivate up to three plants at home, with a maximum storage amount of 50 grams.

BIRTH RATE: 43,383 babies were born in Finland in 2023.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

UNIQUE Crematorium: A Haven of Respect and Compassion

OPENING on June 28, 2024, Collyfer’s UNIQUE Crematorium is set to be the first of its kind in Andalucia and Murcia. Located on the outskirts of Huercal-Overa, this meticulously designed crematorium offers more than just a place for final farewells; it provides a sanctuary for honouring and remembering loved ones with utmost respect and compassion.

The entrance, marked by imposing gates, leads visitors into a serene environment.

Ample parking, including designated spaces for the disabled, ensures convenience for all guests.

The journey through the grounds begins with the Memory Tree, where ashes can be interred and personalised engraved leaves serve as lasting tributes.

Inside the main building, visitors will find a comfortable waiting room adorned with a display of urns and memorial jewellery. The large seating area, featuring marble decking and a prominent altar, is equipped with facilities for photo projection and streaming services, accommodating those unable to attend in person.

The cremation site offers the option to witness the final journey or to have the curtains drawn for privacy.

The crematorium’s aromatic gardens, filled with rosemary and lavender, provide a tranquil backdrop for reflection.

A winding path through tree-covered grounds leads to various seating areas and the Lake of Remembrance. This serene lake offers the op -

tion for ashes to be sca ttered in its waters, either by the family or by the cre matorium staff. The path also leads to a special area dedicated to infants, where children’s ashes can be placed with seating for parents to visit and converse with their lost ones.

The site, expanded and enhanced over the past two years by the Collado family, also features a refreshment area that overlooks Santa Maria de Nieva and Huercal-Overa. This space is available upon request for families who wish to hold a wake in a beautiful, contemplative setting.

Collyfer’s UNIQUE Crematorium will open its doors from 10.00am to 1.00pm, Monday to Friday, with tours available in the first week of

July. Guests can join Karen for a guided tour of the facilities, gaining a deeper understanding of the thoughtful design and services offered.

Collyfer’s UNIQUE Crematorium is a pioneering establishment in Andalucia and Murcia, offering a place of respect, compassion, and serenity for families to honour their loved ones. From its aromatic gardens to its state-of-the-art facilities, every aspect of the crematorium is designed to provide a dignified and comforting farewell.

Contact us today and we will help you through every step. Collyfer cover all areas of Almeria and parts of Murcia Karen 617 456 335 • karencecere@collyfer.com John 617 456 259 • johnharris@collyfer.com

Alcohol-free clothing

WATERPROOF: The cotton t-shirt shrugs off liquid spills.

AN Irish teeneager has launched a waterproof clothing brand to combat those annoying alcohol spills and stains on a night out.

Sometimes it’s hard to avoid spillages, either through your own clumsiness or someone else’s carelessness. It sometimes feels almost inevitable that, after a few too many, there will be drink spilled.

However, a new waterproof clothing brand launched by Irish teenager, Joe McClelland, could see drink spillages and stains become a thing of the past. The County Armagh entrepreneur made the decision a year ago to go sober while training for a triathlon. Going sober, however, did not mean staying in: “After the nights of not drinking every weekend, we started to see we were having just as good a night without it,” he told Belfast Live. However, on these sober nights out, McClelland noticed that, more often than not, he would end up having drinks spilled on him by other more “over-refreshed” drinkers. There is waterproof clothing out there, but McClelland couldn’t nd anything that was stylish enough for a night out on the town. So, he devised Sober Clothing as a stylish alternative to generic waterproof clothing and found a supplier to help produce a t-shirt which is 100 per cent cotton, but which shrugs o all liquid spills.

our Belgian estate agent at the coast!

Photo: Instagram / Joe McClelland

European elections

VOX Pop

Talyta Franca, Class 2026

Northwestern University Qatar

FROM June 6 to 9, citizens from all over Europe participated in the European elections to select the 720 members of the European Parliament. Elections took place in 27 countries, with the preliminary results emerging every hour through live counting. We asked a number of Europeans living in Spain for their thoughts on the elections.

Julia Lager, a 27-year-old from Sweden, highlights the bureaucratic hurdles that immigrants face when voting outside their home country.

“For the elections, I usually don’t vote at all [...] it’s because I need to go to Sweden, I’m pretty sure, or to the consulate, or something like that,” said Lager.

“At least there should be some kind of information on how to vote and where can you vote,” she added.

For other foreigners the language barrier is another obstacle.

Anna , 29, from Denmark, came to Fuengirola to work and hopes to learn Spanish to understand the local political landscape. “I left Denmark three years ago, so I don’t really follow Danish politics anymore,” Anna explained. “But I am going to follow Spanish politics. I just need to learn

Juan , who lived in Germany before coming to Spain, shares his frustrations with trying to vote outside his home country. “I heard that this vote doesn’t count because I’m not voting in the country, I’m voting in another country, but

for another country. So for me, I’m a little bit disappointed,” he said.

Among some expatriates, the overall trust in the political process and candidates is a significant issue.

This sentiment is shared by Tommy , a 73-year-old from Hungary, who opted not to vote. “I know it’s my choice. I just don’t trust anybody anymore. I’ve seen too much in my life. And then you don’t know really the person, it’s just what they say,” Kimmy , a lawyer from Denmark, questions the relevance of the European elections for the population. “The European election is not going to matter so much for the ordinary people,” he stated. However, he acknowledges that some aspects of governance might work better in Spain compared to Denmark, and for this reason, he decided to work in Fuengirola.

Meanwhile, a Swedish expatriate, who preferred to remain anonymous, expressed that political situations in their home country also influenced their decision to move to Spain. “That’s why I moved to Spain, to be honest. I didn’t want my kids to grow up in Sweden where the right wings were kind of taking over. But we see that all over Europe now,” said the 39-year-old expatriate.

The mixed reactions of foreigners in Fuengirola highlight the broader challenges faced by European voters. While bureaucratic hurdles, language barriers, and distrust in the political system obstruct participation, the significance of these elections cannot be overlooked.

JULIA LAGER

JUAN

TOURISTS IN FUENGIROLA

QUIRKY TOWN

Catalan raft race

DROUGHT can be blamed for many things, but not often for disrupting a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity tradition.

This is exactly what has happened in Catalonia where from many years local people in the region of Alt Urgell, in the province of Lleida have celebrated the fact that their ancestors used to ship logs down the river.

Traditionally, the Baixada dels Raiers rafting race on the Segre river took place in the summer but because of the lack of rain, for the past two years it has not been possible to guarantee a strong enough flow, so the race has taken place much earlier and in 2024 it was moved to March 30.

The concept is simple although the actual undertaking of building the rafts

and guiding them is much more complicated but in essence long thin logs are strapped together and a three or four man team equipped with a basic rudder set off down a two-kilometre stretch of the river trying to ensure that they move as swiftly as possible without falling in or sinking.

It attracts a number of visitors who not only enjoy the sight of the rafters racing but afterwards they join a reception that makes a floral offering to the Dona del Raier, the local Virgin (linked perhaps in many minds to the mythical Lady of the Lake) and a meal and drink in the town square.

The Raiers come from the towns of La Pobla de Segur and Pont de Claverol on the Noguera Pallaresa river and Coll de Nargo on the Segre.

Not much chance of staying dry in this raft race

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

AI ailments

RICH CACCAPPOLO, chief executive of DMG Media, the Mail Online, warned a meeting of media executives the rise of AI-powered internet searches could have a “devastating effect” on some publications. Text-generating AI answers to search questions would take traffic from news publications, he predicted.

Mad decision

MADRID’S Mad Cool music festival held in July 2023 brought €46 million to local businesses, provided more than 6,700 jobs and multiplied by 50 each euro invested by the regional and municipal authorities. Despite these benefits, it will be reducing this year’s subsidy by €1 million, city hall announced.

To let HOUSE-BUILDING company Vistry will sell 1,750 new properties in 36 developments to Blackstone, the private equity group and its partner Regis, for rentals in a £580 million (€682.2 million) transaction. The homes, mainly in the south-east of England will be managed by the private rent sector experts, Leaf Living.

EV slowdown

THE Automotive Cells Company (ACC), a Stellantis, Mercedes-Benz and France’s Total Energies joint venture, halted €7 billion plans to build three gigafactories across Europe to end reliance on Asian rivals. Stellantis chief executive Carlos Tavares said ACC would instead adapt its EV plans and adjust to the pace of market.

Going down

SHARES in Ocado, which delivers groceries and household goods, soared during pandemic lockdowns, giving the company a valuation of £22 billion (€25.9 billion). The shares have a current valuation of £3 billion (€3.5 billion) and the company now faces relegation from the FTSE 100.

will be paid out in dividends throughout June by 14 leading Spanish companies which include Telefonica, Ferrovial, Acciona Energía and ArcelorMittal.

Shoo-in for Shein

CHINA’S online fast fashion giant Shein is inching closer towards listing in London.

The company is currently preparing registration documents for the Financial Conduct Authority prior to a possible Stock Exchange debut later in 2024.

Although this is the first move towards an initial public offering (IPO) City insiders stressed that this did not imply that Shein would soon be quoted on London’s FTSE 100.

Should Shein finally decide on London rather than New York, the float putting a £50 billion (€58.7 billion) value on the com-

pany would be the biggest launch since Glencore’s £38 billion (€44.6 billion) deal in 2011.

Conservative and Labour MPs are known to have held meetings with Shein representatives

THE managing director of a leading Spanish brewery complained that a beer described as the “soul of Ma drid” was brewed in the UK.

Aitor de Artaza, International Distribution manager for Estrella Galicia - founded in 1906 - claimed this confused consumers who believed they were drinking Spanish beer when they asked for Madri Excepcional.

even before the announcement of a July 4 general election, as politicians hope to lure more companies to the UK, or at least persuade them not to leave.

Nevertheless, the sus-

picion remains that a London float is ‘second-best’ for Shein, which wanted to list in the US but met obstacles which included claims that it used slave-labour cotton produced by China’s persecuted Uyghur minority.

A UK fund manager who invests in FTSE 100 stocks, quoted by the Telegraph, voiced misgivings regarding the structure of a London deal.

He pointed out that Shein intended to raise £1 billion (€1.17 billion) by selling only a 5 per cent stake in the company, which he said would put investors at the mercy of majority shareholders.

Galicia-UK standoff

Launched in 2020, the lager is brewed in Yorkshire by a subsidiary of multinational Chicago-based Molson Coors, which also owns Doom Bar and Carling.

More woes

CLOTHING and footwear exports to the EU had fallen from £7.4 billion (€8.7 billion) in 2019 to £2.7 billion (€3.18 billion) by 2023.

This decline made a noticeable contribution to an 18 per cent reduction in post-Brexit exports of non-food products countries belonging to the EU’s single market, according to the Retail Economics consultancy and Tradebye, which handles e-commerce.

During this same period, Europe’s online markets have flourished, they found.

Supermarket purchases alone recently exceeded £100 million (€117.45 million), Molson Coors said, compared with the £70.1 mi-

Does it again

INDITEX reported record first quarter sales of €8.15 billion, overtaking analysts’ €8.1 billion forecast.

This was 7.1 per cent more than the same period in 2023 and the textile group’s highest-ever first-quarter figure although growth was, as expected, slightly slower than last year’s when post-pandemic shoppers hit the stores. The Zara and Massimo Dutti owner has now posted record results for three consecutive quarters although increases were all below 10 per cent.

Shares rose by 5 per cent, hovering at nearly €46, giving the company a capitalisation of more than €140 billion. He was “particularly” pleased with Inditex’s performance inside Spain, its principal market, chief executive Oscar Garcia Maceiras said.

llion (€82.3 million) revealed by consumer date company NIQ during Madri’s first full operating year.

Molson Coors maintained that Madri Excepcional was created through “a unique collaboration” with La Sagra Brewery, located near Madrid. Brewing in the UK enabled the company to deliver efficiently, respond to demand and manufacture more sustainably, Premium Brands director Karen Albert said.

Payback time

CHINA has indirectly requested Spain’s support as the European Commission (EC) investigates its electric vehicle (EV) subsidies.

According to the EC, there is “sufficient evidence” that China’s EV manufacturers receive government aid which includes direct funding and tax breaks.

As a result, Brussels could apply retrospective and future customs tariffs that would cost China €3.68 billion.

Meanwhile, carmaker Chery, is re-industrialising Nissan’s vacated plant in Barcelona.

Without mentioning Chery, China’s Commerce minister Wang Wentao recently pointed out that China “highly values” Spain’s support of Chinese companies’ active participation in Spain’s reindustrialisation process.

THE union representing 112,000 Royal Mail workers questioned Daniel Kretinsky’s £3.6 billion (€4.2 billion) takeover offer.

Commitments from the Czech billionaire who hopes to acquire parent company International Distribution Services (IDS) were insufficient, the Communication Workers Union (CWU) said.

“We do not support a foreign equity company taking over Royal Mail,” general secretary Dave Ward told Sky News. “Royal Mail should be re-nationalised but the political climate makes that very difficult at present.”

GOOGLE faces a £13.6 billion (€16 billion) court case alleging that it has too much control over online advertising. Ad Tech Collective Action argued that Google abused its position by promoting its own products and services over rivals’. Publishers received less money from the advertisements they hosted, while paying higher fees to Google, Ad Tech Collective Action claimed.

Alphabet, Google’s parent company, hoped to have the case dismissed, but London’s Competition Appeal Tribunal ruled the case could go to trial.

15 per cent for all

SPAIN’S Cabinet approved a minimum corporation tax of 15 per cent for multinational companies.

Although Spain has a nominal corporation tax of 25 per cent, there are so many exceptions that many companies are paying much less and all those with a turnover of more than €750 million will now be charged 15 per cent. The measure is in line with an agreement between countries belonging to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), directed at preventing tax avoidance.

PATERNOSTER SQUARE: London’s Stock Exchange awaits a Shein IPO.

Photo credit: Flickr/Maggie Jones

ESTRELLA GALICIA: Founded in 1906 and brewed in Spain

Photo credit: Flickr/Ignacio Ferre Perez

3I Group 2.896,00 2.908,00 2.889,00 25,84K Admiral Group 2.696,0 2.716,0 2.692,0 6,29K Airtel Africa 119,70 120,50 119,16 136,73K Anglo American 2.374,8 2.380,0 2.357,5 63,73K Antofagasta 2.142,00 2.152,00 2.123,00 16,02K Ashtead Group 5.598,0 5.630,0 5.538,0 51,52K Associated British Foods 2.549,0 2.553,0 2.541,0 13,75K

12.599,4 12.604,0 12.536,0 49,94K Auto Trader Group Plc 819,00 821,60 815,60 44,52K Aviva 467,90 469,80 466,10 1,05M

B&M European Value Retail SA 488,20 491,63 486,22 159,75K

BAE Systems 1.395,50 1.395,50 1.386,50 137,34K Barclays 213,70 215,38 213,70 3,29M Barratt Developments 497,20 499,03 495,40 85,55K

Beazley 679,50 680,50 674,00 40,14K

Berkeley 5.150,0 5.175,0 5.150,0 2,71K

BP 464,88 465,00 462,60 2,38M

British American Tobacco 2.416,6 2.425,0 2.408,0 90,02K

BT Group 130,55 131,10 130,00 1,23M Bunzl 2.930,0 2.930,0 2.918,0 9,07K Burberry Group 1.028,5 1.031,0 1.022,5 40,33K

132,54 132,70 131,50 307,97K

Cola HBC AG 2.686,0 2.686,0 2.680,0 7,14K

875,50 876,50 861,50 7,12K

plc 1.612,00 1.620,00 1.611,00 230,33K

2.287,0 2.288,0 2.275,5 7,18K

Madrid sale

HUGH GROSVENOR, the billionaire Duke of Westminster, is selling one of his four remaining assets in Spain, an office block in Madrid’s Calle Titan, to the GMP real estate investment trust. Sector sources revealed that more than €40 million will have changed hands.

No ties

AREL KOMAREK, the billionaire Czech owner of Allwyn which runs the UK’s national lottery, severed his links to Russia’s Gazprom energy company. Politicians have criticised Komarek’s links via his MND company, which in turn owns Moravia Gas Storage (MGS).

A misstep for Dr Martens

ICONIC British footwear brand Dr Martens expects to save between £20 and £25 million (€23.5 and €29.4 million) via streamlined operations and improved supply contracts.

Chief executive Kenny Wilson admitted that the cost-cutting programme would entail staff reductions in the UK, Italy, Germany, the US and Japan, but said that more details would be announced in November 2024.

Wilson, who is due to step down in early 2025, also

revealed that dividend payouts to shareholders would be reduced by half. Profits had dipped by 43 per cent to £97 million (approximately €114 million) in the year ending March 2024, while turnover had dropped 12.3 per cent over the year.

BBVA asks Brussels

THE BBVA bank, Spain’s second largest, asked the European Central Bank (ECB) to authorise its €12 billion hostile bid for Sabadell.

Sabadell, headquartered in Barcelona and Alicante and Spain’s fourth largest bank, also owns the UK’s TSB. It rejected an all-share offer in May, instigating the present hostile bid as BBVA continues its quest to buy its smaller rival.

With the ECB application, BBVA has now completed all authorisation requests, including the UK’s Prudential Regulation Authority, sources told Reuters on June 5.

This is BBVA’s second attempt to acquire Sabadell, following a failed bid in 2020. If allowed to go ahead, the takeover would create an entity with assets totalling more than €1 trillion.

Sales of Dr Martens shoes and sandals rose by 20 per cent, but owing to mediocre US operations they plummeted for the famous, yellow-stitched boots which contribute two-thirds of the company’s revenues.

“The US consumer market is tough,” Wildon said, adding that sales had dropped for other boot brands while recognising that Dr Martens had made errors and would increase spending on promoting its products over the coming months.

There would be no prices increases, he added, as rising supply chain costs were under control following two years of inflation.

More beer

HIJOS DE RIVERA brewery, which owns Estrella Galicia beer, reported sales of €829 million in 2023, 14.5 per cent up on 2022. With its A Grela (La Coruña) plant functioning at full capacity to produce 500 million litres, the company now awaits the inauguration of a second plant in Moras, also in La Coruña.

Flying solo

DE BEERS will thrive when it separates from Anglo American, its owner for the past 12 years, the diamond company’s chief executive Al Cook insisted. Insiders believe that De Beers’ plans for the future could include a £4 billion (€3.7 billion) Stock Exchange float or possible outright purchase by a foreign sovereign wealth fund.

Photo 1 credit: CC/Paul Dufour

DR MARTENS: Less demand for the brand’s boots

Photo 2 credit: CC/pannet

No surprise there!

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

ANYONE who wasn’t deeply moved with the remembrance anniversaries of the Second World War D-Day landings must be within the ranks of non-Western sympathisers; the multitude of individuals who are continuously creating unprecedented levels of non-patriotism in many European countries.

The crowds of actual attendees and showing of historical news reels did of course represent the true examples of the brave men and women who fought to free the West of the tyranny that threatened it.

Without them there would be none of the democratic havens which are now being taken advantage of by thousands of ill intended foreigners, whose representatives were remarkably absent from the sombre and heartfelt celebrations. No surprise there then!

Just a quick note here to the couple of letter writers (they walk among us!) who maintained that; as I had no

personal experience of events taking place in South Africa, I was therefore not entitled to an opinion; I’m afraid I do beg to differ. With a number one record in Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) and two in South Africa, I experienced these countries both during apartheid and after it was abolished. Too little space here to describe all of my encounters, but one I think will give you some idea of my sentiments.

While it was still governed by Ian Smith I had been invited to Rhodesia to appear at a country fair organised by expats and their families. I was lodged at a large, very successful farm run by an extremely jovial white English farmer and his brother. He took me on the grand tour and introduced me to many locals who made up his vast number of farm workers and all appeared very happy and content with their employers and their treatment.

He had also built a school for their children and took me to meet the 50 or so students, all very well attired in school uniform and extremely happy in the care of the three teachers he also employed. After I returned to the UK we still stayed occasionally in

touch, until Mr Smith’s government was toppled and taken over by Mugabe and his cronies. All subsequently went quiet and for some time I had no further contact.

However, on another visit some years later, I discovered through another reliable source, that ultimately the farm and property had been taken over by the government. His home and out- buildings, including the school, had been ransacked and burned to the ground and no one had heard from either him or his brother for some considerable time; it was assumed they were both now probably dead.

I actually never heard from anyone again. Mugabe’s mob repeated this all over the country and the whole nation, closely followed by South Africa, ultimately became disaster areas, with poverty and starvation rampant. Be interested to see how the new lot works out. One thing is for sure Rhodesia was a far better place for everyone under the rule of Mr Smith.

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.

PM attacked

DENMARK’s Prime Minister, Mette Fredderiksen was attacked on June 8, in central Copenhagen.

Fredderiksen didn’t suffer major injuries but was left “shocked”, according to her office. The incident occurred at Kultorvet Square and resulted in the arrest of the 39-year-old assailant.

Two witnesses, Marie Adrian and Anna Ravn revealed to the local Press: “A man came by in the opposite direction and gave her a hard shove on the shoulder, causing her to fall to the side.”

They shared that despite the push, Fredderiksen managed to keep her balance and sat down at a nearby cafe to recover.

Swedish Foreign Minister, Tobias Billström, called the attack “completely horrible” and demanded a strong punishment of the assailant, who was sent to court.

Less than a month after Slovak PM, Robert Fico was shot, resulting in a complicated surgery and a recovery, European leaders express concern over the current state of democracy.

European Commission Chief, Ur sula von der Leyed, referred to the latest attack as a “despicable act, which goes against everything we believe in and fight for in Europe.”

The leader of Social Democrats, Mette Frederksen is the youngest Prime Minister in Danish history; the attack occu rred just two days before Denmark’s vote in the EU election.

Mette Fredderiksen.

ALMERIA

Zurgena Rail Festival White Night

IN late February, the Arboleas and Zurgena councils announced that they planned to hold a small joint music festival, alternating between the two towns. The Zurgena Rail Festival 2024 has now been confirmed as taking place taking place at the station compound from 10pm on Saturday August 24.

The featured artist will be Medina Azahara, the legendary rock band formed in 1979 who will highlight their latest project The Eternal Dream. The support bands include another legendary Spanish group, La Guardia who are celebrating their 40th anniversary and Los Lagartos, an Almerian rock group who are currently gathering a big following.

To keep the crowd bouncing, the young and passionate DJ See will be filling in the gaps between appearances. Tickets can be purchased via https:// www.compralaentrada. com with the first 500 costing €25 plus booking fee and after that €30 plus booking fee. Those under 16 years of age will only be able to access the venue accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, who must also purchase a ticket to attend the event and accompany the youngster. Those between 16 and 18 years old may access the premises alone, presenting a formal letter of autho-

risation (which can be downloaded from the website) signed by a parent or legal guardian.

The two councils hope that although this will start out as a small event, it will grow over the coming years and expand so that it becomes a major annual festival.

Glam returns

ONE hard working and very popular group, GLAMJAM is spending a great deal of time flitting across the border between Almeria and Murcia during June. The group are renowned for their spectacular live act, a show which recreates a period that literally changed the face of traditional rock music. Relove the days of The Sweet, Marc Bolan and T Rex, Alice Cooper and many more but the band also play more traditional rock by bands such as

Status Quo, Kiss, Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd. Thursday June 13, it’s JAM NIGHT at The New Bar Salud sector B Camposol from 7.30pm. They are in Murcia Province in Condado de Alhama on June 14 and Los Narajos on June 20. Then back to Camposol on Saturday June 22 at The Clubhouse and another appearance at The New Bar Salud on Thursday June 27.

They will also be part of the line-up for Arboleas Rocks on July 20.

John Smith

DON’T miss out on the Roquetas de Mar White Night which will take place across the town on the evening of June 14.

Whilst one of the main aims is to boost local commerce, there’s plenty of entertainment planned which will be great fun for all of the family. There are no less than 16 different completely free activities most of which are near the centre of the town at the Plaza de la Constitución, Avenida Juan Carlos I and Parque de Los Bajos starting from 6pm and running until around midnight.

There’s a circus event in the Plaza with trapeze artists, jugglers and general acrobatics whilst the children are really being looked after in the Par-

que de Los Bajos with workshops on magical drawings, temporary tattoos that glow in the dark and balloon twisting, inflatable attractions, trampolines and an electric animal circuit. There’s music in Avenida Juan Carlos I with concerts such as the one offered by Sandra Rosán, a contestant on Operación Triunfo in 2011 and another by guitarist Carlos Lirola. There will be lights blinking, dance action, a Disney parade, mini disco, Zumba exhibition and Food Trucks around the town with the evening culminating at 10pm with the arrival in the Parque de Los Bajos by Los Vinilos playing 80s and 90s pop and rock Roquetas de Mar becomes whiter then white.

Credit: GLAMJAM Facebook

Credit: Zurgena Council

Arboleas rocks

THE MBLV Group of friends created Arboleas Rocks in 2023 which saw a number of bands perform free of charge outside the community centre in Arboleas.

Entry to the event was free (as it will be this year) but they still managed to raise €5,750 which was shared between Make A Difference (MAD) Foundation for Ukraine and the Arboleas Community Food Bank.

This charity rock concert returns on Saturday July 20 from 6pm with performances by Seldom Sober, Qurt, Rebel Yell, Rewind and Kayleigh Easton, all of whom are playing free of charge.

The event centres around the main attraction, that being an

open air concert on a full size and fully equipped stage. There will be refreshments and a fully stocked bar, with beer on draught and plenty of food available including rotisserie chicken and much more.

The community centre will be where a night market will take place, so you can browse a selection of products including cakes, sweets and all sorts of other items.

The Military & Blue Light Veterans (MBLV) group was founded in February 2020 by

Craig Badley, a British Armed Forces Veteran of 23 years. The concept was simple, to create a small social group, formed of military veterans, emergency services and prison service retirees of people living in Spain.

MBLV believe that there is a caring community in the Arboleas area which is happy to become involved in having a great night out whilst digging deep to donate money to be shared between a number of worthwhile charities.

YOU don’t have to be the very best of singers to join the All Aloud Community Choir but it does help if you can hold a tune.

It’s as much a group of people who enjoy getting together to sing and who enjoy the company of others than just a choir.

There are no auditions and you do not have to be able to read music so if you sing in the shower or sing along to the radio in the car then you are qualified to be an All Aloud member.

They meet at The Kubatin Bar, behind the Hostal Meson in Arboleas at

3pm on Wednesdays, although most of the group arrive a little earlier for a drink and a chat.

Apart from the fun of singing, the choir raised funds for charity and local organisations, with their next proper event being held at The Kubatin Bar at 7.30pm on Friday June 28 with free admission although donations to help the children’s ward at the Huercal-Overa Hospital will be more than welcome.

Do go along to enjoy the music which will consist of a mix of different genres and maybe you’ll stay to join and enjoy their various social activities over the coming months.

Jessica Sweeting

Credit: Seldom Sober Facebook

Benefits of the sun

THE possibility of the sun damaging our long-term health is well documented. So why do so many of us like sunning ourselves, aside from the obvious desire for a tan?

It could be because exposure to the sun improves our overall well-being. This happens because of an elevation in serotonin levels, sometimes affectionately known as the ‘happiness hormone’. The effect is even more significant in those afflicted by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is deemed to be a form of depression that can leave the sufferer with feelings of fatigue and despair. While it is not known exactly what causes SAD, it is believed to be connected to low serotonin levels, which is why it tends to affect people during the winter months when there is less sunlight.

One of the rejuvenating benefits of sun exposure is its impact on sleep quality, provided you can keep cool enough to sleep! The sun’s light/dark cycle profoundly influences our circadian clock, the natural rhythm of physical, mental,

and behavioural changes our body undergoes in a 24-hour cycle. According to experts at the National Institute for Occupancy Safety and Health (NIOSH), exposure to bright light in the morning can help you drift off more easily at night, ensuring a restful sleep.

Not only does sun exposure lift our spirits, but it also empowers us with tangible physical benefits. The increa sed production of vitamin D, a direct result of sun exposure, aids in calcium absorp tion, thereby fortifying our bone health. This, in turn, can help prevent conditions

like osteoporosis and reduce the risk of bone fractures, empowering us to lead a healthier, more active life.

Beauty faux pas

This is excellent news for those who have chosen to live in sunny Spain. What’s not to like about feeling happier, healthier and having a great night’s

re by heeding the advice of the experts

MAKE-UP can enhance your natural beauty, but certain blunders can inadvertently age you. One common mistake is using too much foundation, which can settle into fine lines and wrinkles, making them more pronounced. Opt for a lightweight foundation and apply sparingly for a natural finish.

Skipping primer is another error; primer creates a smooth base, helping make-up last longer and preventing it from settling into creases. Overdoing powder can also be problematic, as it can create a cakey appearance and highlight dry skin. Use powder sparingly and focus on oily areas.

Dark, heavy eyeliner can make eyes appear smaller and harsher. Instead, choose a softer shade and blend well. Lastly, neglecting your brows can add years to your look. Well-groomed brows frame your face and give a youthful appearance. Avoid these pitfalls to maintain a fresh, vibrant look.

Credit: Pixabay: PublicDomainPictures

A starchy secret

RICE water, the starchy liquid left after soaking or boiling rice, offers numerous health benefits. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, rice water is a traditional remedy for improving skin and hair health. When applied to the skin, it acts as a natural toner, reducing pores and promoting a smooth, radiant complexion. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe irritation and redness.

For hair, rice water can strengthen strands, reduce breakage, and promote growth. Rinsing your hair with rice water can also enhance shine and smoothness. Consuming rice water provides internal benefits too. It can aid digestion, prevent constipation, and provide a quick energy boost due to its carbohydrate content. Hydrating and nutrient-rich, rice water is a versatile, natural solution for

Tranquil tips

NAIL-BITING is a common but often overlooked habit that can affect both the appearance of your nails and your overall health. To curb this habit, it’s essential to understand its triggers. Stress, boredom, or anxiety often lead to nail-biting. Identifying these moments allows for conscious efforts to redirect your focus.

Keeping your nails trimmed and filed reduces the temptation. Consider using a bitter-tasting nail polish designed to deter biting. Moreover, engage your hands with activities such as knitting or stress balls.

Regular manicures can also encourage you to maintain nail health. Persistence and mindfulness are key.

Over time, with consistent effort, breaking the nail-biting cycle becomes achievable, leading to healthier, more attractive nails.

Free sunscreen

EUROPE’S sunniest country, Spain, has an idyllic warm climate. But sunbathing can come with negative consequences if one is not careful in protecting their skin.

To reduce health risks associated with ultra light, Spain is develo ping new measures, in cluding free access to sunscreens.

Spain’s Minister of Health, Monica Gar cia stated that the government is con sidering the intro duction of free suns creen dispensers in public spaces in cluding parks, heal th centres, sports centres and libraries.

“We are working on the possibi lity of having free access in certain circumstances and

certain public places,” said Garcia, accentuating the importance of sunscreens as “health protection products.”

This initiative is based on the proposal to reduce the VAT on sunscreens from 21 per cent to 10 per cent for companies in which the employees are exposed to the sun, offering the products free of charge.

The Minister of Health also addressed people “who require certain products such as sun creams for their health,” referring to past skin cancer patients or people who take medication which makes them sensitive to ultraviolet rays.

Garcia clarified that the measure will not be implemented this summer, but emphasised that the “health system has to shift towards prevention measures,” and will continue developing.

INTERVIEW

Speaking EuropeanGeorgina Doran

Georgina was just 19 with a degree in journalism, working for the BBC Northern Ireland when she discovered the beauty of Spain.

COMING from Belfast to Altea on Valentine’s Day, she “fell in love” with the town and couldn’t resist the idea of moving.

In 2004, she moved and began working in sales in Alfas del Pi before moving to Barcelona.

In the city, however, she felt homesick; “But I wasn’t homesick for Belfast. I was homesick for Costa Blanca,” she reca lled.

Georgina also confessed that she is “still 100 per cent Irish,” and visits her motherland regularly. Moreover, being the owner of the Irish pubs The Irish Tavern and The Church, Georgina has created her own unique home; “I feel like I’m meant to be here.

Credit: Georgina Doran, Facebook

She shared that she especially felt at home there: “Here in Costa Blanca, I feel like a part of a community, not just a number like in big cities.”

Georgina Doran.

“Spain is my home; both of my children were born here,” she confessed and advised those considering moving to Spain: “When I moved, I had never owned a business before. Don’t wait until you have the experience to make changes. Make changes now.”

Costa del Sol Travelodge opening

THE British chain, which specialises in the low cost sector, has taken over a three-star hotel previously operated by Louvre Hotels Group in the area close to Malaga airport.

The British hotel chain Travelodge, which operates throughout the UK, Ireland and Spain, has announced the opening of the new Travelodge Malaga Airport, a three-star hotel with 114 rooms. It is located on Avenida de Velázquez, number 212 and has its own car park, two meeting rooms and restaurant.

The opening of this hotel in Malaga is part of the chain’s expansion plan in Spain, which has reported the launch of five new hotels: Alicante Puerto, Barcelona del Vallès, Madrid Alcalá de Henares, Malaga Airport and Murcia, with a total of 635 rooms.

The Malaga establishment, like the other new hotels, opened under the Travelodge brand on May 31, following the recent acquisition from Louvre Hotels Group.

Axarquia Colour Run

THE first ever ‘Algarrobo en Color’ (Algarrobo in Colour) race is set for July 13 and will raise funds for AVOI, the Children’s Oncology Volunteer Association. Starting at 10am, this vibrant event aims to support children with cancer at the Maternal and Child Hospital. Mayor Natacha Rivas encourages families to join in, highlighting the good cause behind the race.

Sergio Cotilla, the Sports councillor, informed that RidersRunning organises the race and features a two-kilometre route. Participants will start from the Mezquitilla pergola, run along the Paseo Marítimo to the Algarrobo River, cross the bridge, and head back to the starting point. Expect bursts of colourful powder throughout the course, adding to the fun.

Post-race, there will be music, a speaker, a raffle of electronic items, and a bike. Each entry costs €10, with €1 going to AVOI. Participants will receive a commemorative t-shirt, sunglasses, a backpack, water, and a raffle entry.

Mallorca

Tom Cruise stops off

HOLLYWOOD action star Tom Cruise is back in Mallorca, making a surprise appearance on the island just weeks after his previous visit. Cruise touched down at Palma Airport on June 8 aboard his personal Honda jet, which he pilots himself.

Cruise landed around noon after spending time in Sevilla, but departed by 5pm, making for a brief five-hour stay.

Currently filming the eighth instalment of the ever-popular Mission: Impossible franchise, Cruise also recently enjoyed box office success with the release of Top Gun: Maverick in 2022.

“Tom Cruise is one of the few true movie stars left in the business,” Paul Dergarabedian, senior media analyst at Comscore told CNN Business. “His name on the marquee means something to audiences who have come to trust that his films will be worth every dollar of that movie ticket purchase.”

Could the iconic actor’s visit mean that there is a Mallorca movie project in development?

Costa Blanca South Costa quality

THE Qualitur 2024 Flag is a prestigious award that certifies the quality, environmental standards, and accessibility of beaches, marking them as top-tier coastal tourist destinations.

Each year, 90 beaches across 11 municipalities in Alicante Province receive the Qualitur Flag.

Santa Pola stands out, having earned 13 Qualitur seals, making it the second town in the Valencian Community with the most Qualitur seals.

This includes seven sandy beaches and six coves, putting Santa Pola just two seals behind El Campello and ahead of Pilar de la Horadada by two stamps.

Santa Pola’s recognised environment includes three notable coves. The first is in front of the Marine Research Center (CIMAR), a scenic spot perfect for relaxation and exploration. The second cove is along the cape path towards Arenales, offering a tranquil setting. The third, Els Gossets Cove, is known as a dog-friendly beach and is popular with pet owners.

Costa Blanca North World’s best

THE world’s 50 best restaurants of 2024 have been announced, spanning 23 global destinations selected by 1,080 international restaurant industry experts, including food writers and chefs.

The list features several classic favourites along with new entries from Australia, Colombia, India, and beyond.

At the live awards ceremony held at Wynn Las Vegas, the Costa Blanca cemented its place on the gastronomic map as the Quique Dacosta restaurant climbed to number 14 in the prestigious The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

This ranking highlights the restaurant’s continued excellence and recognition on a global scale.

Renowned chef Quique Dacosta, based in Dénia, leads a talented group of professionals who are elevating Alicante’s gastronomy to international acclaim.

Costa Calida Air rescue

A HIKER who had fallen while trekking along the Chícamo River was rescued by air after being unable to return to his vehicle. The incident, reported at 12.35pm on June 9 to the Emergency Coordination Centre 112 of the Region of Murcia, prompted a swift response. The 61-year-old man, injured and stranded, needed assistance.

112 operators pinpointed the hiker’s location, despite the challenging terrain and poor phone signal. Consequently, the General Directorate of Security and Emergencies dispatched a helicopter with a team of firefighters from CEIS for the rescue.

Simultaneously, an Emergency and Health Emergencies Management 061 ambulance was called to pick up the injured party at Macisvenda, Abanilla’s parking area. Local Police in Abanilla were also notified.

Once transferred to medical care, the victim was taken to Abanilla’s health facilities, and then to the Reina Sofía Hospital in Murcia for assessment.

PETS

Doggy Dips

MANY dogs enjoy swimming, finding it a fun and refreshing activity, especially in warm weather. Breeds like Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and Portuguese Water Dogs are particularly fond of water and are natural swimmers. Swimming offers excellent exercise, providing a low-impact workout that is gentle on joints and great for overall fitness. However, not all

dogs are keen on swimming. It’s important to respect their preferences and not force them into the water. For dogs that are hesitant, gradual exposure and positive reinforcement can help build confidence. Start with shallow water and allow them to explore at their own pace, always ensuring a safe environment. Ultimately, while encouraging a dog to swim can be benefi

Furry Fix

CBD treatments for cats and dogs are gaining popularity as a natural remedy for various health issues. Derived from hemp, CBD is non-psychoactive and is believed to offer several benefits, including pain relief, reduced anxiety, and improved mobility in older pets.

Before starting CBD treatments, consult your veterinarian to ensure it’s safe for your pet and to determine the appropriate dosage. It’s essential to use high-quality CBD products specifically formulated for animals, as human products may contain harmful ingredients.

Start with a low dose and monitor your pet’s response, adjusting as necessary. Look for changes in behaviour, appetite, and overall well-being. While many pet owners report positive results, it’s crucial to remain vigilant for any adverse reactions. CBD can be a valuable addition to your pet’s health regimen, potentially enhancing their quality of life naturally and safely.

Pet-sitting for free accommodation - Old fashioned barter

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

Paula has been house and pet-sitting in exchange for free accommodation.

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

All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed. Choose Housesit match.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 ExcellentThe efficiency of Housesit match

The prompt service from Housesitmatch was very impressive and I was helped greatly by Lamia who took me patiently through the membership process. Very quickly I was put in touch with a homeowner and a very promising house-sit. Excellent service.

Maggie - House-sitter, UK

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.

CLASSIFIEDS

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION

MISCELLANEOUS

BUILDERS

ALMERIA BUILDERS: Fully Legal, Fully Insured, All Work Guaranteed. 659 685 133 www. almeriabuilders.com (253556)

BUY & SELL

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

CHURCHES

Local Anglican (CofE) Church Services take place at Mojacar and Llanos del Peral (Zurgena) churches every Sunday 11am and at Aljambra Chapel (Albox) monthly. Dates and details of our services, including directions and contact details, can be found at  www. almeria-anglican.com. Here you can also find information about funerals, baptisms and wedding blessings. We are an inclusive church. (10002)

TURRE EVANGELICAL

CHURCH We meet every Sunday at 10.30. For worship. We believe you’ll find us ‘relaxed’, welcoming’ and ‘informal’. Find us on Turre’s main street, towards the motorway at the far end on the left. To know more contact 617 914 156 (10021)

- Why not make this year the year you volunteer? Call and see how you can help either as a caseworker (with full training) or as a Telephone Buddy. We also visit beneficiaries who are housebound or in hospital. If you feel you could support us here in Spain, and you have a Spanish phone number then why not email us for more info tbuddyhhvisits@ gmail.com. If you or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us using the details on the card, we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control. It can be a personal need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly, just call and have a chat with Pam who will try to guide you to where you need to be. If you would like to go to a branch meeting then find your nearest one at, www.britishlegion. org.uk/counties/spain-north ZURGENA Branch meeting on the first Thursday, Coffee Morning on the third Thursday and Buffet & Quiz Night on the last Tuesday of the month all at La Parrilla Hotel Albox, for further details please email  zurgenarblchairman@ gmail.com - (253989)

DRAINAGE

ELECTRICAL

ABBOTT ELECTRICS. From a Light Fitting to a Full Rewire. Tel: 950 137 208 / 638 010 691 (305398)

VOSS HOMES are a professional, British family-run Estate Agents with an office in Huercal-Overa town. They specialise in selling and renting properties in the Huercal-Overa, La Alfoquia, Zurgena & Taberno area. Andy, Anna, Jess, Adele, Hannah, Amy & Karen look forward to helping you buy, sell or rent your ideal property. Please call 678 002 006 for more information (283824)

INSURANCE

MOTOR INSURANCE. For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 952 147 834, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 952 147 834 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726)

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

LANGUAGE CLASSES

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

MOTORING

mixed trial packs.Available by mail-order. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394

PAINTER/DECORATOR

PLUMBERS

KNOWLES PLUMBING No 1 for all plumbing jobs big or small. Central heating, solar hot water and water deposits. Tel: 606 807 797 or 684 143 560 (305077)

REMOVALS

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)

OTHERS

EDS? We have the solution, Kam agra pills & jells, Cialis,  Sidenafil, over 7 products for men & ladies,

THE FIVE BONE HOTEL, TURRE. Little dogs €7.75, medium dogs €8.50, big dogs €9.25, cats from €7.00 a day. 630 234 556 / the5bonehotel turre@ gmail.com fivebonehotel.com (304298)

SOLAR WIND POWER SOLUTIONS. Over 20 years installation experience. Established 17 years in Spain. Call Phil for competitive prices on 636 261 240 or email info@ sunergyalmeria.com (305375)

Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

Battery concerns dominate Parking in Spain: A quick guide

A RECENT survey reveals that 75 per cent of drivers have serious concerns about purchasing second-hand electric vehicles (EVs), with the condition of the battery topping the list of worries. This significant hesitancy poses a substantial challenge for car manufacturers and retailers striving to promote greener transportation options.

The primary issue for potential buyers is the unknown state of the EV battery, which can greatly affect the

vehicle’s range and overall performance. Unlike traditional combustion engines, where wear and tear are more predictable and easier to assess, EV batteries degrade differently, and their lifespan can be influenced by various factors including charging habits and environmental conditions.

Manufacturers and retailers are now faced with the task of reassuring customers about the reliability and longevity of used EVs. Transparent ba -

ttery health reports and warranties might be crucial in alleviating these fears. Additionally, developing standardised testing

and certification processes for used EVs could help build trust among consumers.

As the push towards greener transporta -

WHEN parking in Spain, it’s essential to understand the colour-coded lines indicating where and how long you can park to avoid fines or towing.

• White Lines: You can park for free without time restrictions unless the spot is reserved for the disabled.

• Yellow Lines: Continuous yellow lines mean no parking. Interrupted yellow lines allow stopping for loading/ unloading. Yellow zig-zag lines indicate special use areas like bus stops or taxi stands. Parking fines here are €200.

• Blue Lines: These areas require paid parking. Check meters for specific times when parking may be free, such as nights, weekends, or holidays. Rates

tion continues, addressing these concerns is essential for wider acceptance of second-hand EVs.

Overcoming these hurdles will be vital for the industry, aiming to meet environmental goals and facilitate a smoother transition to sustainable driving.

vary by city/town.

• Orange Lines: Reserved for residents, but some non-residents can park during certain times or for a fee. Signs will provide details. Some cities use red lines instead.

• Green Lines: Also reserved for residents. Non-residents can park for a maximum of two hours and must pay. Green lines can also denote short-term parking for services like taxis.

Remember, parking on pavements, against traffic, or in designated emergency and handicapped zones is prohibited. When in doubt, use a parking garage, which is an affordable and safe option in any city or town.

Subaru Solterra - an EV with character

By Mark Slack ROAD

TEST

FOR a company that has built a repu tation on providing cars with charac ter, slightly left field, sporting and will go anywhere capability, then EVs are perhaps not such good news. A lot of the more affordable EVs tend to be quite workaday, auto motive white goods for a purpose rather than fun.

Subaru is one of a few companies that faced this issue and having launched their first EV they’ve taken a safe route in teaming up with Toyota in developing the BZ4X and Subaru’s own offering, the Solterra. The name combines the Latin words for sun and earth, which is far more imaginative than the BZ4X name. At first glance there’s little bar some subtle styling changes to differentiate the two cars, but under the skin there are differences. The Subaru only comes in dual motor, permanent all-wheel-drive form, including hill descent control. Well it is a Subaru! This does provide a more interesting drive in my view and in addition to comfort the handling provides for enjoyment across more interesting cross-country roads.

model including items such as surround parking cameras, power tailgate, auto lights and wipers, main beam assist and power fold mirrors. The higher trim Touring gains a panoramic roof, wireless phone charging, faux leather upholstery and a Harmon Kardon premium sound system.

Inside it’s rather plain and despite the Peugeotesque steering wheel that sits below the instrument panel - normally you look through the wheel to the instruments - it all works well with nice clear instrumentation.

Some cars are colour sensitive and the Subaru arguably looks classier and its presence amplified in darker colours. I happened to park adjacent to a Toyota BZ4X yet it was my dark Blue Solterra that drew the attention.

On the road the performance is, as with most EVs, rapid with the benchmark 62 mph reached in a whisker under seven seconds. The range is perhaps not quite so impressive when you consider the Subaru is priced from €61,697/£52,495.

The official range of 463km/288 miles would, as with all EVs, be less in the real world, and in winter as batteries do not like the cold. That said the Solterra does come with a heat pump as standard to help matters along.

For a first EV Subaru will to some have lost the character that has been its hallmark. I hope many others will see that Subaru has completed an almost impossible task with more than a degree of success.

Facts at a Glance

Model: Subaru Solterra Limited

Power: Dual motor electric allwheel-drive with 71.4kwh battery developing 218PS

Gears: Automatic Price: €61,697/£52,495

Performance: Max speed 160 kph (100mph)/0 to 100kph (62mph) 6.9 seconds

Range: 288 miles WLTP

Emissions: 0

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

She thinks it’s all over Alcaraz wins French Open

CARLOS ALCARAZ marked the proudest moment of his illustrious career with his maiden French Open victory on Sunday June 9. The 21-year-old Spaniard became the youngest man to secure Grand Slam titles on all three surfaces, adding this triumph to his Wimbledon and US Open titles.

Alcaraz triumphed over German Alexander Zverev with a 6-3, 2-6, 5-7, 6-1, 6-2 victory at Roland Garros, joining tennis legends such as Mats Wilander, Jimmy Connors, Andre Agassi, Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal, and Novak Djokovic in an elite club of multi-surface champions.

Having arrived in Paris with limited match play due to a right forearm injury, Alcaraz highlighted the significance of this win. “Winning the US Open when I first reached number one was special, but this victory at Roland Garros, given my recent

injuries, is something I’m incredibly proud of,” Alcaraz said.

His preparation was hindered by withdrawals from Monte Carlo and the Barcelona Open and an early exit in Madrid. Despite these setbacks, Alcaraz demonstrated his resilience and determination.

“I don’t need many matches to get to 100 per cent. Practising with good

players here in Paris helped me feel confident,” Alcaraz added. “Each match improved my form.”

To commemorate his achievement, Alcaraz plans to get a tattoo of the Eiffel Tower with the date on his left ankle, complementing his existing Wimbledon tattoo. “I’ll find the time to do it. It’s a special way to remember this victory,” he shared.

AMERICAN singer Lenny Kravitz had a huge hit with It ain’t Over ‘Til it’s Over and Spanish race walker Laura Garcia-Caro should have remembered those words.

She was taking part in the 20km race walk in the European Athletics Championships in Rome on Friday June 7 when she made a very embarrassing mistake.

As she headed into the last 400 metres of the race she seemed in such a strong position to take bronze that she even managed to get hold of a Spanish flag.

So confident was she that just a little way from the finish line she started to punch the air, smiling and sticking out her tongue in anticipation of winning her first ever major athletics medal.

Then it all started to go wrong as Ukrainian athlete Lyudmyla Olyanovska who had been steadily gaining her

in the last circuit of the track, drew level with Garcia-Caro with just five metres to go.

The Spaniard’s look of delight turned to one of horror and although she tried to speed up, the momentum was with her rival who passed her, just two metres out and went on to take third place and the bronze medal.

Carlos Alcaraz at the moment of victory.

Garcia-Caro was in a for a nasty surprise.

Credit: Roland Garros X

Credit: Roland Garros X