Costa Calida 18 – 24 July 2024 Issue 2037

Cruising ahead

CARTAGENA has grown as a significant player in the 2024 cruise industry landscape, securing the second spot among top global destinations. The coastal city attracts cruise fans with its vibrant cultural attractions and beautiful coastal scenery, offering a variety of experiences.

According to recent data analysed by Bounce from leading cruise sites like Royal Caribbean, Cartagena achieved a robust rating of 7.73 out of 10. This accolade reflects the choice of stunning beaches on offer and 489 historical landmarks to visit, highlighting its appeal to travellers interested in both relaxation and exploration.

The city’s prominence in the cruise market is bolstered further by its family-friendly activities, with 168 options to choose from.

CORVERA Airport is celebrating a successful June with a 2.1 per cent increase in passenger numbers, marking a turnaround from a slight decline in May. Highlighting this positive trend is the arrival of its first flight from Porto, which launched on July 15, courtesy of Soltour, the operating company for this new route linking the Murcia region with the Portuguese city.

Soltour has revealed plans to introduce a weekly flight to Porto, running until September as a charter service, aiming to assess the route’s viability and potential. This announcement comes alongside the airport’s recent debut of a

This comprehensive blend of cultural heritage and leisure opportunities positions Cartagena as an ideal destination for multigenerational travellers.

As the global cruise industry continues to recover and expand post-pandemic, Cartagena’s strategic location and

diverse attractions ensure it remains a pivotal hub for maritime tourism. Its ability to cater to varied interests - from historical sightseeing to beachside relaxation - highlights its appeal and solidifies its position as a premier cruise destination in 2024 and beyond.

Porto connection

Marrakech route, operated by Ryanair, complementing existing connections to nine destinations across the UK, Ireland,

and Morocco.

Looking ahead, Ryanair is keen to evaluate the performance of its new Marrakech link to

Meanwhile, Santorini takes the lead as 2024’s premier cruise destination with a top score of 8.13 out of 10. Renowned for its romantic atmosphere, wealth of activities, and stunning scenery, Santorini’s appeal highlights the draw of the Mediterranean to travellers worldwide.

potentially sustain operations through the winter months, as indicated by Elena Cabrera, the company’s spokesperson in Spain.

Moreover, Corvera Airport’s summer schedule boasts flights to over 20 destinations, with operations extending until late October.

Overall, Corvera Airport is on track for a good year, having welcomed 111,787 passengers in June alone, alongside 801 flight operations. Yearto-date figures show a 4.3 per cent rise in passengers, reaching nearly 400,000, with domestic travel showing the most significant increase at 55.8 per cent compared to the first half of 2023.

Boutique hotel

CABO DE PALOS introduces a new boutique hotel this summer, the Cetina Cabo de Palos Puerto, adding to its hospitality options. Situated centrally on Calle Tintero, this three-star hotel spans two floors and offers 45 rooms. Owned by a real estate company linked to Marnys, led by José Martínez Nieto, it will be managed by the Murcian chain Cetina.

The hotel features a terrace with panoramic views of the town and coastline, along with a cocktail service and a Jacuzzi for guests. Its restaurant, Amura, specialises in Mediterranean cuisine, offering both tapas and formal dining.

Established eight years ago in Murcia, Cetina has converted several historic properties into boutique hotels across Spain, including locations in Sevilla, Segovia, and soon in Cordoba. This addition reflects Cabo de Palos’ ongoing growth in tourism, providing 45 new rooms and upscale amenities aimed at environmentally conscious travellers seeking high-quality leisure experiences.

Costa Calida • Issue No. 2037 • 18 - 24 July 2024 FREE FREE FREI GRATIS

GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS GRATUITO VRIJ LIVRE

ILMAINEN G F E GRATIS GRATUIT S G

Image: Shutterstock/ Dmitry Rukhlenko Corvera Airport launches new Porto route.

Image: Facebook/ Sergio Nova Ocio

Cartagena sailing through 2024.

San Javier sky-high AP-7 free

SAN JAVIER’S Air show, held from May 3 to 5, made a big economic splash, pulling in nearly €6.2 million, according to a study by the University of Murcia in partnership with the regional government and San Javier’s town council.

This event, a cornerstone of the ‘San Javier - Air City’ initiative, aims to make the Mar Menor area a hotspot for aeronautical tourism nationwide.

Carmen Conesa, overseeing Tourism, Culture, Youth, and Sports, along with Mayor José Miguel Luengo, unveiled the study’s findings.

THE Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, Óscar Puente, announced in Alicante that the government will make the AP-7 motorway toll-free starting July 15 night until October 15. This temporary measure aims to analyse the shift of vehicles from the A7 motorway, which currently handles over 95,000 vehicles daily.

In a press conference, Puente explained that while the A7 is heavily congested, the AP-7 sees only about 5,000 vehicles a day. This change is expected to significantly impact the Region of Murcia, which the AP-7 also passes through. By making the AP-7 toll-free, the government aims to redistribute traffic, easing congestion on the A7. A 33 km section on the Alicante ring road between the towns of Monforte del Cid and El Campello, until it reaches the junction where it connects with the AP-7 Alicante-Valencia will be free.

For the next three months, the AP-7 will be free to use, with expectations of it handling around 25,000 vehicles daily. This trial will provide data on traffic distribution and its effects, particularly in regions like Murcia. Puente emphasised that while the third lane project on the A7 is not abandoned, immediate solutions like this are necessary for improving traffic flow and safety in both Alicante and Murcia.

They highlighted how ‘San Javier - Air City’ is set to turbocharge the local economy, tourism, and cultural scene, rooted in the region’s aviation heritage.

The study found that 4.3 per cent of festival-goers stayed in local hotels, spending over €924,000 on accommodations.

Dining and shopping also saw big bucks, with eateries raking in more than €1.5 million and shops cashing in over €650,000.

Over half of the attendees (54 per cent) came for military air -

craft and aerial displays. Nearly 30 per cent took the chance to explore other attractions nearby.

With rave reviews across the board, 96.5 per cent plan to return next year!

Easing Murcia-Alicante traffic.

San Javier’s aerial festival soars.

Image: N332

International residents speak out

RECENT British headlines have portrayed Spain as an unwelcoming place for foreigners, but Torrevieja residents are adamant that life here is good. Torrevieja o ers a vibrant international community, excellent healthcare, and a genuine Spanish experience, minus the mass tourism crowds.

“The papers are saying our town is a let-down for Spain. Why? Here in Torrevieja, we couldn’t be happier!” says Euro Wee-

kly News reader, Christine White - “The lack of big tour companies and large hotels is a blessing. We get independent travellers who appreciate the local vibe.”

Torrevieja boasts a thriving international community but hasn’t lost its Spanish charm. Christine feels fortunate to be part of a close-knit group with “good transport links, a great health service, and a modern feel without the tourist overload.”

The negative press has left Christine and other residents bewildered. “I don’t know who these unhappy people are,” she exclaims. “Our positive voices have to be heard!”

The sentiment echoes throughout Torrevieja. Residents are proud of their town, where there’s “no overcrowding.” The local hospital receives particular praise - “One of the best in Europe! “The healthcare is incredible, with nothing

but support and kindness.”

Community spirit thrives in Torrevieja. “People don’t think about where they come from - Swedish, French, Spanish, Moroccan - we’re all neighbours,” Christine explains. “We know each other’s names, look out for each other. Covid really brought us together.”

The message from Torrevieja is clear: not all of Spain is drowning in tourist woes.

Integrating into Spanish life

WHILE Spain is known for its welcoming atmosphere, making friends and integrating into the community can take time. This is where social groups and meeting places come in.

The internet has made connecting with others easier than ever. Platforms like Facebook offer a wealth of expat groups in Spain, catering to specific regions, interests, or nationalities.

Spain’s cafe culture thrives on social interaction. Grab a seat at a local cafe, order a coffee (un café con leche for a milky latte) and strike up a conversation with fellow patrons.

Many towns have social clubs or associations that organise events, cultural outings, or language exchange programmes. These can be a fantastic way to meet people from diverse backgrounds and practise your Spanish.

Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back to the community while meeting new people. Organisations like the Spanish Red Cross or local animal shelters often have volunteer opportunities open to expats. Euro Weekly News reader, Jeremy Newman, explains - “For me, around Barcelona it was animal welfare. The shelters had many regular foreign volunteers - and hardworking Spanish staff. There’s a great sense of camaraderie in those places, the odd party, and a counterpoint to the country’s patchy reputation on animal issues.”

TOURIST arrivals are at record levels in Spain, fuelling economic growth that outpaces most of Europe. Yet, locals in popular destinations are increasingly voicing their discontent, taking to the streets in protest.

On the one hand, tourism is a golden goose. It contributes a signi cant portion - around 13 per cent - to Spain’s GDP. It creates jobs, lls hotel rooms, and keeps businesses a oat. This economic engine has propelled Spain’s

recovery from past recessions. However, residents complain of rising housing costs. Additionally, overcrowding strains infrastructure and resources.

Spain needs to nd a way to maintain the economic bene ts of tourism while mitigating its negative impacts. This could involve:

Distributing tourism revenue beyond popular resorts, developing attractions in lesser-known regions to ease pressure on popular destinations.

Encouraging eco-friendly practices, protecting cultural heritage, and supporting local businesses.

Ensuring a healthy mix of tourist accommodation and housing for residents.

publishes more content both online at euroweeklynews. com and

Torrevieja residents are very proud of their community

Credit: Torrevieja

City/fb

Meeting new people in Spain will enrich your experience.

Credit: Kampas Productions/pexels

CPR classes

Summer stand

FAST (First Aid Support Team) Camposol is a dedicated group of trained volunteers offering essential first-aid support in the critical time between the onset of a medical emergency and the arrival of professional medical services. They play a crucial role in the community, ensuring that immediate care is available when it’s needed most.

In addition to their emergency response efforts, FAST Camposol is launching new CPR training courses for the public. These free sessions will be held on the third Friday of each month at the Culture Centre in Camposol, Sector B.

The first training session is scheduled for Friday, August 19, at 2pm. These courses offer a valuable opportunity for community members to learn lifesaving skills in a supportive environment. By attending, participants can become bet-

Vital support

ter prepared to handle emergencies and contribute to the overall safety of Camposol. FAST Camposol encourages everyone to join and become part of this vital initiative. To take part email president_fast@outlook. com.

IN Murcia, a local restaurant recently made headlines for its smart move in the blazing summer heat. With temperatures hitting nearly 40 degrees Celsius, they decided to close their terrace to protect their sta . When some customers insisted on sitting outside despite the scorching weather, the restaurant politely declined, saying they didn’t want their waiters working in such extreme heat. This decision, which they shared on social media, has been getting a lot of love online. People are praising them for putting their employees rst, which isn’t always the norm in the restaurant biz. It’s not the rst time this place has gone viral for doing the right thing; they’ve spoken out before about the challenges in the hospitality industry. It’s a good reminder that looking after your crew matters, especially when the sun’s out to fry everyone!

Firefighting base

MABS San Javier, the Cancer Support Foundation, received a generous donation of €500 from the Salt Church to support cancer patients in the region. This contribution will fund essential services like translators, drivers for hospital appointments, medical equipment, and necessary care. The foundation expressed deep gratitude for the donation, highlighting its significant impact on patient welfare.

In addition, The Meeting Place on United Golf Resort contributed €300, further strengthening MABS’ initiatives. These donations demonstrate the community’s solidarity and commitment to supporting individuals affected by cancer.

MABS is immensely grateful to the Salt Church and The Meeting Place for their generosity and support. These contributions will directly improve the lives of their patients, providing critical resources and assistance during their challenging journeys.

The foundation extends sincere thanks to all donors and supporters for their invaluable contributions and ongoing dedication.

Speed circuit

THE Fuente Alamo Town Council plans to invest €750,000 to nally open the Los Milanos municipal speed circuit. This decision follows a notorious illegal ‘rave’ that was held on New Year’s Eve 2023 and throughout the Three Kings celebrations 2024, which highlighted the ongoing closure issues of the facility since its completion in 2018.

The funding, sourced from a €2.6 million surplus in the 2023 treasury, will also be allocated to debt repayment and other local projects. Of the €750,000

designated for the circuit, a signi cant portion will address asphalt resurfacing due to initial defects observed during test runs. The remaining funds will remedy damages caused by the ‘rave’, including gra ti removal and waste cleanup costs totalling €115,000. Mayor Juana María Martínez emphasised the prudent management of public funds in achieving this surplus, with unanimous council support ensuring responsible allocation across various infrastructural improvements.

THE Regional Ministry of Environment has activated the Forest Firefighters Brigade (BRIMUR) as part of its efforts to bolster firefighting capabilities in Murcia. Composed of 20 heli-transported personnel, BRIMUR stands ready to provide reinforcement in any forest fire within the Region of Murcia or extend support to other autonomous communities upon request.

Stationed in Cieza, this brigade serves as the primary backup unit throughout the peak fire season until August 31. Led by an environmental agent, BRIMUR’s key strength lies in its exceptional mobility, enabling rapid deployment across the region or beyond in mere minutes.

The brigade consists of 20 firefighters led by a foreman, equipped with a 4x4 truck holding 4,000 litres of extinguishing agent. Their specialised training ensures readiness for immediate deployment, enhancing the existing firefighting resources in Cieza.

Learn CPR, Save Lives

Pawsitive impact

ATTENTION dog lovers near El Mirador, San Javier! PAPS (Protectora Animales Perros Del Sol) urgently needs volunteers. This dog rescue centre cares for 30-40 dogs and seeks people who can spare two to six hours a week. Volunteer opportunities are available on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9am to 11am.

Volunteers are needed for dog walking, grooming, and kennel cleaning. This is a rewarding way to give back to the community and make a difference in the lives of these abandoned dogs. If you love dogs and have some time to spare, please consider lending a hand.

Interested people can get more information or sign up by emailing ani malesperrosdelsol@hot mail.com.

Your help can make a big difference in the lives of these dogs.

Water taxi

A NEW water taxi service has just launched between Lo Pagán and La Manga, making it easier than ever to explore the beautiful Mar Menor. The service, kicked off by Fomento, connects Lo Pagán-La Puntica with Puerto Menor (Tomás Maestre) and offers boat trips around the Mar Menor.

You can catch these boats near the ‘Félix Martínez Nautical Activities Centre’ in Lo Pagán, with plans for a more permanent dock coming soon.

This move isn’t just about conve -

nience - it’s a big boost for tourism and the local economy. By improving access to Lo Pagán’s scenic waters, Fomento aims to attract more visitors year-round. It’s all part of their plan to make Murcia a go-to spot for water adventures.

Looking ahead, there are plans to invest in more infrastructure, making it even easier to hop from boat to beach and back again. So whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, exploring the Mar Menor just got a whole lot simpler.

Beach surprise

AT dawn on Playa de Poniente in Aguilas, beachgoers were pleasantly surprised by PozoSur, the agricultural leader in Aguilas famous for their seedless black watermelons, Iceberg lettuce, Mini Romaine, Aubergine, Pumpkin, and Pak Choi.

They transformed the beach scene by generously lining the shore with complimentary towels and an assortment of melons and watermelons on each towel. This spontaneous gesture wasn’t just about promotion; it showcased PozoSur’s commitment to its community and its diverse produce range. Locals and tourists basked in the sun, enjoying this unexpected treat and adding a flavourful twist to their beach day.

PozoSur’s marketing project not only highlights their agricultural excellence but also their dedication to spreading joy along the Aguilas coastline. It’s moments like these that remind us why they stand out in both farming innovation and community spirit.

Explore Mar Menor by water taxi.

Image: carm

Sun, sand, and surprises from PozoSur.

Image: Facebook/ Concha Navarro Azor

Inflation declines

IN June, inflation in the Region of Murcia dropped to 3.4 per cent, marking a decrease of four-10ths compared to May and aligning closely with the national average. The latest data from the National Statistics Institute revealed a slight ease in prices, particularly notable in food, which stabilised with an annual rate of 3.8 per cent for food and non-alcoholic beverages. Monthly figures showed the year-to-date rise to 2.7 per cent. Significant price decreases were observed in transportation, driven by lower

fuel costs, and in clothing and footwear categories.

Compared nationally, Murcia’s inflation rate of 3.4 per cent places it in line with the Spanish average. Only Castilla y León and Ceuta reported lower rates at 3.2 per cent, while Canarias, Cantabria, and Melilla registered 3.1 per cent. Prices increased notably in leisure and culture by 2.8 per cent, attributed to increased costs in holiday packages. Housing also saw an uptick of 0.8 per cent, largely due to rising electricity costs in the region.

Murcia inflation eases, prices stabilise.

Image: Shutterstock/ ViDI Studio

Miss Merkel investigates Airlines ‘illegal’ fees

GERMANY’S former Chancellor Angela Merkel recently appeared on Italian television in a very different role.

Not in person, it should be said, but as a Miss Marple-type sleuth in a twopart series called Miss Merkel and the Murder in the Castle.

In fact, the programme was seen in Germany last year but its airing on Rai2 has brought it to the attention of a wider European public.

Having retired from politics, the fictional Miss Merkel portrayed by actress Katharina Thalbach

now lives with her husband Joachim Sauer in the Uckermark region in what was formerly East Germany.

That is where the former Chancellor, who celebrates her 70th birthday on July

17, spent her childhood and where she now owns a holiday home.

Bored with retirement Merkel, who in real life has a doctorate in Quantum Chemistry, begins to take an interest in solving crimes which the local police inspector is too indolent to solve.

Creator of the series, author David Safier, explained to Italy’s Corriere della Sera how a 2019 conversation with his agent regarding Merkel’s future retirement and watching a Columbo rerun gave him an idea for his next book.

Safier has now released three whodunnits featuring Miss Merkel, whose name reflects his other source of inspiration, Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple.

A fourth book will be published in November, coinciding with the publication of Freiheit (Freedom), Angela Merkel’s own autobiography.

MORE and more airlines recently are adopting the practice of charging passengers extra for hand luggage. While this may seem common, court cases are now revealing this may be illegal, calling for airlines to stop charging additional costs and even refunding passengers for unlawfully paid hand luggage fees.

The consumer protection organisation, Test Achats, and its umbrella

ggage fees generally being charged at the end of the ticket reservation process, meaning consumers cannot compare the real prices transparently.

Additionally, the Court of Justice of the EU has ruled that hand luggage of a reasonable size should be considered necessary, with the Test Achats spokesperson, Laura Clays stating “Hand luggage is not a

luxury item and should not be treated as such.” Spain’s Consumer Ministry also confirmed the practice is illegal and fined several airlines. Unfortunately, passengers are still facing additional charges. In June, Test Achats filed complaints against four of the airlines for these baggage fees.

The Princess of Wales at Wimbledon

THE Princess of Wales made a triumphant return to Wimbledon, receiving a standing ovation as she entered the Royal Box. This marks her second public appearance of the year, following her ongoing cancer treatment.

Kate, 42, was joined by her daughter Princess Charlotte, nine, and sister Pippa Middleton for the highly anticipated Men’s Singles Final between Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic.

Adding to the excitement, the mother-daughter duo met with British tennis star Emma Raducanu before settling into their seats. Charlotte appeared thrilled to meet Raducanu, who unfortunately exited the tournament earlier in the week. They later interacted with participants of the ‘Work at Wimbledon’ programme, which empowers young people from diverse backgrounds through roles at the Championships.

The Royal Box boasted a star-studded audience, including Hollywood A-listers Julia Roberts and Tom Cruise, a close confidant of the royals. Benedict Cumberbatch, Prince William’s former classmate from Eton, London mayor Sadiq Khan, and tennis legend Andre Agassi were also present.

ANGELA MERKEL: Germany’s Chancellor between 2005 and 2021.

Passenger at the airport stressed over too much luggage.

Holiday horror

TOURISTS experienced a holiday horror in Greece as they were told to wade through water with luggage in hand.

Greece is known for its beautiful islands, stunning holiday destinations and alluring scenery. For these globetrotters, however, Greece may be more a nightmare than a dream in their memory.

An idyllic boat ride to a promising hot spot led these holidaymakers into chaos as they were told to leave the vessel out of the hatch and into the clear blue waters with luggage in hand. While they did receive help from the crew, and a handy rope to hold on to, this is nothing compared to previous years. Instead of waist-high in water, these guests would have been comfortable strolling across a oating platform, intended to get them from the boat to the land - dry.

Local reports said they were forced to enter the water after o cials banned the use of oating platforms in response to over-tourism.

Following this footage, however, the o cials have reversed the decision and agreed to reinstall the platform.

ON the road or out at night, these European vending machines o er products you didn’t know you’ve been craving; these are the weirdest ones.

Germany’s sausage vending machine

Famous for its bratwurst and bockwurst sausages, Germany decided to make their authentic products available 24/7. According to NPR, there were more than 500,000 sausage vending machines in 2020. The meat sold is vacuum-sealed and the machines are temperature-controlled, ensuring safety measures equal to the butcher’s.

Germany’s dairy and eggs vending machine

Not only are there sausages across German towns but products including eggs, milk and cheese, can be found in vending machines. Renovators of farming, Peter-und-Paul-Hof, were the rst to plant the idea in 2009, and have since expanded across the country.

Italy’s Let’s Pizza

Italy doesn’t shy away from its stereotype; pizza is by now the most popular food worldwide and in Italy can be found even in vending machines. A machine called Let’s Pizza can be loaded with ingredients for making 100 pizzas from scratch. Within just three minutes, people can take away a truly one-of-a-kind Italian pizza.

Paris’ baguette vending machine

The baguette craving can come any time of the day; in Paris, a fresh bague-

Odd offers

tte can be purchased from a vending machine for just €1.20. The bread is partially cooked before being placed in the vending machine and nishes baking inside per order, guaranteeing the same quality as the supermarkets.

The Netherlands’ vegetable vending machine

In most places, nding a fresh and organic snack can be practically impossible. Unlike vending machines lled with Cokes and Snickers, machines in the Netherlands o er a wide range of vegetables. This development has been especially bene cial to farmers, who, by placing their produce in vending machines, have been able to pro t more than by selling when renting out stalls.

Amsterdam’s FEBO

Amsterdam is known to have just about everything; now, there are even vending machines that o er restaurant meals for a price below €10. A chain of walk-up fast food restaurants, FEBO made hot food accessible through vending machines, including items like croquettes stu ed with veal or beef, French fries and burgers. Raw milk vending machine France, Switzerland, Italy and the Netherlands have all embraced the raw milk trend, despite controversy about the drink’s safety concerns. Some states in the USA have banned the sale of raw milk due to its potential to carry harmful diseases but Europe believes it’s safe and even promotes the drink.

Meat vending machine.

Holidaymakers entering a boat preparing for a memorable trip.

Charity Event

MABS Mazarron continues to provide invaluable support to those diagnosed with cancer. On July 26, they’re hosting The Ultimate Soul and Motown show, Supreme Dream. With tickets at just €12.50, attendees can enjoy fantastic entertainment while supporting a worthy cause. Additionally, a charity raffle will be held to benefit MABS further.

In related news, the Salud Golf Society recently demonstrated generosity by donating to three local charities. They presented MABS, Forget Me Not, and FAST with €1,100 each. These donations were the result of the society’s annual Charity Day in May, along with various other fundraising efforts throughout the year.

Special thanks are due

to Bar Salud for sponsoring the Salud Golf Society team, and to the local businesses that donated raffle prizes, helping to significantly boost the funds for these charities.

The community’s support and contributions highlight a collective commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer and other causes.

COSTA CALIDA

Sunset Wine Event

MAZARRON PORT is set to host its firstever Sunset Wine event on Wednesday, July 31, at 9pm, promising an evening of fine wines, scenic vistas, and live music. The event will take place at El Faro Cafeteria, renowned for its panoramic views of the stunning sunsets over the coast. Guests can anticipate an exquisite tasting experience featuring four select wines, each expertly paired with delicious tapas, guided by a sommelier to enhance the sensory journey. Live musical performances will add to the ambiance, creating a perfect backdrop for relaxation and socialising with friends.

Tickets for the event are available for

inaugural event promises attendees not only a chance to enjoy top-notch wines but also an opportunity to unwind in a laid-back atmosphere against the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset.

Join in for an evening of wine, sunset, and fun at Sunset Wine, and make me mories that will linger long after the sun

Fan Futura Festival

FAN FUTURA, the popular summer festival previously held in San Javier, will take place in Los Alcazares this year. The event is scheduled for July 26 and 27 at Parque del Gonio, a 36,000 square-metre venue located at Avenida Radio Baliza Óscar and Paseo del Gonio de Los Narejos.

The fourth year of the festival features notable artists such as Arcángel, Trueno, María Becerra, Cruz Cafuné, Israel B, Lia Kali, Recycled J, and Ovy on the Drums. General admission passes are priced at €54, while VIP passes cost €99. Single-day tickets are available for €39 for both Friday and

Saturday. Tickets can be purchased at www.fanfutura.com

Festival lineup: Friday, July 26: Arcángel, María Becerra, Ovy on the Drums, Recycled J, Walls, Xavibo, Micro TDH, Soge Culebra, Pol Granch, Pipiolas, Vatocholo, Cris Deluxe, Diego Armando, Don Fluor, Gidi, Jeatz, Kinara, Mala Cotton, Maxvill, and Sami.

Saturday, July 27: Trueno, Cruz Cafuné, Abhir, Lia Kali, Israel B, Besmaya, Luna Ki, Selecta, Teo Lucadamo, Taao, Stivi Joes, Barder, Diego Armando, Dlpin, Johnny’s Drama, Jota Maro, Kutxu, Madbel, Paul Martin, and Yosef.

Fan Futura 2024 lineup revealed.

Sunset Wine event in Mazarron.

Image: Shutterstock/ KieferPix

Supporting local charities.

Image: Facebook/ MABS Mazarron

Britain’s ugliest dog walks the red carpet

Harry Sinclair

BRITAIN’S ugliest dog, Peggy, joined the Deadpool cast as they walked the red carpet.

Peggy the pugese, a crossbreed between pug and Chinese crested is making her acting debut as ‘Dogpool’, the sidekick to Ryan Reynold’s Deadpool character.

She was photographed in her superhero costume with the actors as they promoted the film ahead of the release at the Eventim Apollo in London on Thursday July 11.

In celebration of the film, and Peggy’s stardom, HMV replaced its traditional dog-and-gramophone logo to

feature canine-superhero Peggy in the logo, displayed on the sign of their flagship store on Oxford Street, London.

Peggy is the pet of Holly Middleton, from East Yorkshire, who entered her in the UK’s ugliest dog contest after adopting her at six months old, describing her as “beautiful both inside and out.”

After winning the con-

test, Holly went on to say they “could never have imagined that we would discover a star.” Little did they know how big of a star Peggy would become.

Reynolds was the one to spot and cast Peggy in the newest Deadpool, stating she felt “like the animal manifestation” of Wade Wilson, the man who becomes Deadpool.

Peggy in her superhero role with Ryan Reynolds as Wade Wilson.

Credit: We Rate Dogs /fb

INTERVIEW

Speaking European –Juul van Noort

Juul spent four months thinking about Spain; is it the right place to move to? Is it the right time?

SHE and her husband planned to buy a house in Spain, only to stay during the winter but after Juul’s husband lit up with the idea of mo ving completely, the couple reconsidered their life in the Netherlands.

mediately felt “at home.”

Juul finally gave in; she quit her job and moved to Alcalali, where the couple purchased a beautiful home. “You have to follow your heart,” she said. “If you’re hesitating, stay in Spain for a month or two and you’ll know.”

But even after moving away from the Netherlands, Juul continued to make Dutch friends in Spain and im-

“Life in Spain is much easier,” she shared. Juul loves the country for its climate, which is “the best in Europe.” She shared that in Spain, it became “easier to be healthy.” Now, she spends her days with nature and sports, mindful and at peace.

“Moving to Spain has had a bigger impact on my mental health than I anticipated. It’s so peaceful. It’s quiet on the roads, quiet in the mind; it’s a much healthier and happier way to live.”

Juul van Noort

IRELAND

Play on

A 1961 Fender Stratocaster guitar that belonged to singer-songwriter Rory Gallagher who died in 1995, will be sold later this year, his brother Donal announced. Rory acquired the Stratocaster, probably one of Ireland’s first, for £100 (€118.80) in 1963 when he was only 15, Donal told the RTE broadcaster.

Nightmare over

DUBAI dropped the charges against Tori Towey, whose passport was impounded after she was accused of attempted suicide and drinking alcohol following an alleged attack in her own home. Glad to be home in Roscommon thanks to the intervention of the Irish government, Tori said Ireland was an “amazing” country.

EURO PRESS

Happy event

AFTER a gestation period of 15 months, a giraffe calf was born at Planckendael Zoo as first time mother Valeye initially “looked on in surprise,” according to zookeeper Jolien who was present. He also said that members of the public would soon be able to vote on a name for the new arrival via the zoo’s Instagram.

SWEDEN

Space invader

TRELLEBORG is trying out a new strategy in its battle against Japanese knotweed which is prevalent in southern Sweden. As elsewhere, the presence of the invasive plant can reduce the value of a property and the town hall is experimenting with underground 300-degree heat cartridges designed to wipe out the plant.

Old beliefs

PEOPLE practising the Asa religion which venerates the Old Norse gods, giants and ancestors could soon have their own burial ground in Molkom after applying to the Swedish Church for unconsecrated ground. Pending regional permission, the Church can allocate a graveyard to any religion that requests one.

GERMANY FRANCE

Bruni charged

CARLA BRUNI, wife of former president Nicolas Sarkozy, is the subject of a formal investigation after concealing evidence of witness tampering linked to alleged campaign financing in 2007 by the Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi. She is currently barred from contacting others linked to the prosecution, apart from her husband.

Picture perfect

THE French authorities rebutted accusations of carrying out ‘social cleansing’ by removing the homeless before the start of the Olympic Games on July 26, saying there had been no increase in evictions. Non-profit making associations countered with figures showing they had risen compared with previous years.

ITALY

Real value

TRANSPORT minister Matteo Salvini confirmed that Milan’s Malpensa Airport would be named after the former prime minister and media billionaire, Silvio Berlusconi. Milan’s centre-left and leftwing parties criticised the choice but Salvini declared that nobody on the left “is worth a 10th of what Berlusconi was worth.”

Fairer fares

TAKING a taxi in Rome will now cost a minimum of €9, city hall announced, as it prepared to issue 1,000 new licences. Transport councillor Eugenio Patane explained that low minimum tariffs discouraged cabbies from accepting short journeys, which resulted in especially long queues at railway and bus stations.

FINLAND NORWAY

Flying high

OSLO’S Gardermoen airport was named Europe’s best in the category serving between 25 and 40 million passengers each year. Airports Council International Europe praised Gardermoen for its punctuality and operational procedures as well as its baggage system, snow removal methods and efforts to reduce emissions.

Mystery graves

A BURIAL ground for children aged from three to six years old that was discovered in 2023 in Fredrikstad was used constantly between 800 and 200BC. Infant mortality would have been high at that time, but archaeologists admitted they were mystified by the ancient circles of carefully-placed stones that marked each grave.

Cold feet

ITV Studios Finland has begun production of a Finnish version of Cold Feet, the UK comedy-drama series which was aired on television for five seasons between 1997 and 2003, with a reboot 13 years later. Finland’s version, which debuts in 2026, will follow much the same pattern as its British predecessor.

Work ethic

A SURVEY by Finnish Lotteries discovered that 29 per cent of those who were employed on winning at least €500,000 continued in the same job, although half eventually left to enjoy their financial freedom. Many of the 32 per cent not working when they won were senior citizens, the investigation found.

Fire probe

ONCE emergency workers had secured the scene, police began investigating the origin of an explosion and an extensive fire at a hostel for asylum seekers in Buchholz in der Nordheide. Twenty people including first responder officers were injured in the blaze, while later reports revealed that a woman had lost her life.

Hauwei veto

ESSENTIAL components from Huawei and ZTE will be barred from the country’s 5G core networks by the end of 2026, Interior minister Nancy Faeser said. The move follows on from weeks of negotiations resulting in future agreements with Germany’s 5G operators, Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone and Telefonica.

DENMARK PORTUGAL

BELGIUM NETHERLANDS

Rat run

RATS that feasted on last summer’s large quantities of fallen fruit are now multiplying in Aalborg where the public were reminded that they are legally required to report any sighting of a rat to the local authorities. These in turn are expected to eliminate rats from the sewers, drains and waste land they inhabit.

Space mission

DENMARK now belongs to Nato’s Alliance Persistent Surveillance from Space (APSS) programme which shares space surveillance intelligence. Defence minister Troels Lund Poulsen described Nato as the world’s strongest defence alliance and said it was in Denmark’s interest to be closely aligned with its allies.

Smashed avo

EUROPEAN Environment Agency, GEOTA, warned that the Murta reservoir in Alcacer do Sal would be at serious risk of drying up if a large-scale avocado-growing project was allowed to go ahead. GEOTA described the location as a “biodiversity hotspot” providing “countless birds and mammals” with water.

Property ladder

THE government has calculated that exemption from the IMT property transfer tax and stamp duty for under-35s buying a home for the first time will cost €25 million after the concession comes into effect on August 1. That will rise to €50 million in 2025, Finance minister Mirand Sarmento announced on July 10.

Stay-at-home

TWENTY-FIVE per cent of Netherlands residents did not go away on holiday in 2023, a CBS national statistics agency survey found. Most of the 45-65 age group explained that they simply preferred staying at home, although 38 per cent of low earners told CBS that they had to choose staycations for economic reasons.

Troll ops

THE US Justice Department revealed that the Netherlands’ AIVD and MIVD intelligence services have assisted in removing hundreds of bogus social media profiles set up by Russia to spread disinformation. The operation involved seizing two domain names and investigating AI-generated accounts.

GIRAFFE CALF: The public will be able to choose the name of Planckendael Zoo’s latest addition.

Ban tourist apartments? Your opinion VOX Pop

BARCELONA’s decision to prohibit tourist apartments by 2028 has sparked a range of reactions from residents, business owners, and tourists. We hit the streets to gather opinions on this controversial policy.

Paul from Burnley and a resident of Lo Pagan said “Stopping tourist rental won’t make that type of property available to local workers it will just mean people who don’t want to rent them will have more choices.

“The people you want to help will be negatively affected because tourists bring a lot of money into the area and based on a two bed apt you will lose about 1,000 tourist nights per property per year, a massive loss of income to bars, restaurants, and shops and therefore jobs.

“In Barcelona, the effect might not be as bad because there is other employment, but in tourism-based areas, such as Mallorca, the effect could be massive. It would be better to introduce a tourist tax system to re-invest in new properties outside the centre and also invest in the transport network.”

Michael , on holiday from the UK, stated “I visit Barcelona often, and I love staying in local apartments to get a feel for the city. I’m disappointed by this news. It might mean higher costs for accommodation in the future. It will push hotel prices up. But if it helps locals live better, I can un derstand the rea soning be hind it.”

Pepe

natar, on the Costa Calida, added “This town has always had an influx of holidaymakers in the summer, mostly people with second homes from Madrid. It has never been a problem here but we do complain about them in August!”

Kevin from Ireland said “Instead of an outright ban, there should be a compromise that balances tourism and residents’ needs.”

Ana from San Javier stated “The prices are through the roof because of all the tourist apartments. I think this policy will help young people who are trying to start their lives here.”

Barcelona’s decision to eliminate tourist apartments by 2028 got mixed reactions. While many residents applaud the move for its potential to make housing more affordable, property owners and tourists express concerns about the economic impact and future travel experiences. The debate highlights the challenge of balancing a thriving tourism industry with the needs of the local community.

San Pedro del Pi

KEVIN ANA

BARCELONA’S BOLD MOVE ON RENTALS.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Having fun

A TSB survey, How Britain Spends, noted a 9.2 per cent increase in outlay on airlines and travel companies during the first half of 2024, compared with the same period last year. The British spent 5.1 per cent more on concerts, cinema and theatre and a huge 20.2 per cent more on visiting amusement parks, the TSB found.

Indra approval

THE US Federal Aviation Administrator (FAA) has added Indra’s Surface Awareness Initiative (SAI) to its Qualified Products list. The Spanish company’s system, which increases runway safety by providing real-time surface aircraft movement data, may now be installed at any US airport with a staffed control tower.

Belt tightened

LONDON-BASED Burberry will cut jobs as it introduces cost-cutting measures to bolster declining profits, the Telegraph reported. The company has lost more than a third of its stock market value since January and, as one of the worst performing FTSE companies, is on the brink of relegation from the index.

Wait and see

INDIAN bus company Switch Mobility has suspended until 2026 its plans to build a €100 million factory to produce electric buses in Valladolid. The company contacted Valladolid City Hall on July 8 to explain that it intended in the meantime to evaluate the evolution of the market for electric vehicles in Europe.

Jobs lost

BILLIONAIRE Sir James Dyson is slashing 1,000 British jobs following a review of the company’s worldwide operations. “The company operates in increasingly fierce and competitive global markets, where pace of innovation and change is only accelerating,” the British inventor said.

STAT OF WEEK

€2.28 billion

turnover in 2022 - the last available figures - for familyowned Catalan company Agrolimen which produces Spain’s most-used stock cube, Avecrem.

France’s wealth running scared

TO relief tinged with wariness, the New Popular Front (NFP) came out on top in the second round of France’s elections on July 7.

The NFP’s victory kept Marine Le Pen’s hard-right National Rally (RN) out of power, and seats in the National Assembly are split more or less evenly between left, right and centre although the NFP will call the shots.

The hard-left alliance romped home on promises of boosting the minimum wage and public sector pay while reducing the pensionable age from 64 to 60 and freezing the prices of staple goods.

These measures will cost approximately €150 billion over three years, according to the calculations of the NFP and its leader Jean-Luc Melenchon, but president Emmanuel Macron’s party Renaissance predicted that they would require at least €300

SOUTH EAST WATER, which supplies 2.3 million people, needs money after losing £36 million (€42.7 million) in the year ending March 31.

This was down from £74 million (€87.7 million) in 2022-2023 and turnover rose 9 per cent to £281 million (€333.2 million) but South East Water needs more cash as it awaits a verdict from the regulator Ofwat on future spending.

The company has submitted plans that would require £1.9 billion (€2.25 million) to maintain and upgrade infrastructure while increasing customer bills by 22 per cent.

Britvic says yes

UK soft drinks maker Britvic has agreed to an improved £3.3 billion (€3.9 billion) offer from Danish brewer Carlsberg. Britvic accepted £13.15 (€15.60) a share after turning down an earlier offer which it said had undervalued the company. Carlsberg announced on July 8 that the Britvic board would “unanimously recommend” the cash offer of £12.90 (€15.31) per Britvic share plus a special dividend of 25p (approximately €0.29) for each share.

million.

France has a current Budget deficit of 5.5 per cent of the country’s

JEAN-LUC MELENCHON: NFP leader has pledged to tax the wealthy.

Losing

gross domestic product (GDP) and government ministers already warned against spending on this scale during the election campaign.

Worse still is the spectre of a 90 per cent wealth tax.

Immediately after the NFP victory, the international financial media agreed that this would push the country’s financial elite to look elsewhere, probably to Switzerland but also to Italy and even Spain.

Speaking to the Financial Times, Parisian wealth adviser Gregory Soudjoukdjian, said that he was receiving more calls than at any other time during his career.

“Our high-end clientele are asking themselves a lot of questions,” he admitted.

“All wanted to know if their money was safe,” Soudjoukdjian added.

buoyancy

DOMESTIC SUPPLY: South East Water provides water for five UK counties.

Enagas goes greener

SPANISH company Enagas is selling its 30.2 per cent holding in US energy infrastructure company Tallgrass Energy.

The $1.1 billion (€1.02 billion) sale to the US investment company Blackstone, which already owns a Tallgrass stake, will be used to finance green hydrogen projects, Enagas announced.

Spain’s gas grid operator, in which the State holds a 5 per cent stake, looks to evolve from its established role as a natural gas grid operator to organising a hydrogen infrastructure network.

Meanwhile, Enagas will absorb a €360 capital loss from the divestment that should be completed by the end of July although the transaction will bring a positive impact on earnings from 2025.

South East Water, whose parent company HDF Holdings belongs to NatWest’s pension fund, a Canadian pension fund and an Australian infrastructure fund, is currently talking to investors and shareholders about additional liquidity.

The company expects this to be forthcoming, although a July 10 statement said that if talks fell through, this would shed doubt on its ability to continue as a going concern.

Legendary marque

THE Lancia is to be produced in Spain once more.

Seat formerly built the brand at its Landaben (Navarro) plant in the late 70s and early 80s and now, 40 years later, Stellantis announced that it would be produced exclusively at its Figueruelas (Zaragoza) factory.

The company has begun taking orders for the Ypsilon, a hybrid and electric model with the first deliveries scheduled for October 2024.

“This is an important phase in our plans,” Lancia chief executive Luca Napolitano said.

“Lancia returns to Europe and arrives in Spain, which has always been one of the marque’s most important markets.”

THIERRY ANDRETTA, Mulberry chief executive since 2015, left the company with immediate effect on Tuesday July 9.

The upmarket handbag company, whose customers include the Princess of Wales and Kate Moss, saw total revenues fall 4 per cent in the year ending on March 30, 2024, with a 3.2 per cent fall in UK sales.

Insiders also revealed that tensions have risen at Mulberry following attempts by Frasers Group owner Mike Ashley, who owns a 37 per cent stake in the company, to join the board.

WETHERSPOONS has done well from Euro 2024 with beer sales surging during matches that have compensated for a wet June.

The chain does not usually offer live sport for its customers, but only two of the chain’s 809 pubs did not provide coverage, apart from the 21 which do not have televisions.

It now looks forward to a 6 per cent increase in sales for the current quarter and the pubs foresee a buoyant annual profit that easily approaches the predicted £75 million (€89 million).

COSMETICS giant Puig’s shares are now listed on the Spanish stock market and will soon be available in the US.

Citi and Puig have launched an unsponsored American Depositary Receipts (ADR) programme that is equivalent to 25 million shares in the Barcelona-based company which owns Penhaligon’s, Charlotte Tilbury and Jean Paul Gaultier. This will enable the US market to invest in Puig without any further regulatory procedures, in a system that is already used by Telefonica, Santander BBVA and Grifols.

Photo credit: FB/Jean-Luc Melenchon

Photo credit: Pixabay/Tiburi

8.358,0 8.300,0 4,73K

455,25 457,80 454,55 1,27M

Liquid gold

ACESUR, which produces the Coosur and La Española olive brands, posted record sales of €1.102 billion in 2023. This was 25 per cent more than last year and the first time that the Jaenbased company’s revenue topped €1 billion.

No thanks

ASDA supermarkets abandoned plans to introduce a 44-hour, four-day working week after a trial flopped at 20 stores. Employees said the 11-hour shifts were so physically demanding that they could not enjoy the extra free day and the new hours clashed with childcare.

No longer a joke

TAITTINGER, one of France’s best-known Champagne houses, launches the first of its Domaine Evremond wines in Chilham (Kent) this September.

The Evremond vineyard is a joint venture between Champagne Taittinger and Hatch Mansfield, the French winemaker’s business partner in the UK.

Taittinger acquired the Kent apple orchards in 2015 with an initial plan-

ting of 20 hectares of vines which increased to 40 over the following three

years. The results of almost nine years’ work and a £15 million (€17.8 million)

Grifols solution

THE Grifols family, which controls 30 per cent of the Spanish blood plasma pharmaceutical company, could go private.

Financial daily Cinco Dias recently revealed that the company and Canadian fund, Brookfield Capital Partners, were discussing a joint takeover worth around €5.5 billion which could be completed “within weeks.”

Shares rose by 15 per cent on the mor-

ning of July 8 after trading was temporarily halted following publication of the takeover rumours.

Grifols has been practically under siege since January 2024 after short-seller investment fund Gotham City Research maintained that Grifols had manipulated its debt-to-earnings figures by consolidating the earnings of units it did not control.

investment are now ready to fill glasses.

As the climate changes, not only Taittinger but other big names are spending large amounts of money on producing wine in England. These include Pommery which now has an estate in Old Alresford (Hampshire).

Rising temperatures mean that some parts of England are perfect for wine-making and Kent’s chalky soil is little different from the Champagne region.

“English wine was taken as a bit of a joke 30 years ago. Now, it definitely is not,” Patrick McGrath, Hatch Mansfield’s managing director, said.

“One of the beauties of English sparkling wine is the acidity,” he told the UK media recently. “It’s slightly racier than Champagne,” McGrath explained. “Champagne is a bit riper and fatter.”

Era ends

AFTER 194 years, Royal Mail has announced it will no longer use its own trains to move mail overnight, with its remaining trains mothballed in October as it increasingly switches to road transport. The decision coincides with parent company International Distributions Services’s decision to accept a £3.6 billion (€4.27 bn) takeover offer from Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky.

Plane sense

A COMPANY report reveals that Inditex bought a second-hand private jet from its founder and principal shareholder, Amancio Ortega in 2023. Acquiring the €46 million aircraft, which is “perfectly maintained” and “in perfect technical condition” from Ortega also meant that the company was able to avoid the usual threeyear wait for delivery, Inditex said.

Photo credit: CC/Nilfanion

ENGLISH VINES: Taittinger’s first Domaine Evremond wines ready in September.

At 85, I’m on my way

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

WOW, thanks for all the mail. Last week’s piece certainly brought some strong reactions; most, I’m relieved to say, in accord with my suggestions. Mind you there are always dissenters. One gentleman thought I was not only riddled with hatred, I could also be leading myself to an early grave! Both wrong opinions of course.

The first being that at 85 years, I have rather overshot the somewhat unenviable opportunity of an early grave and secondly, the only members of our somewhat precarious human race that I truly do hate are those who believe the only way to survive is to bring death and total destruction on your enemies. I certainly don’t hate Transgenderism.

During my Bayswater years I had a large number of friends and associates who swung just about all ways. One I was not too happy about however bore the nickname of Spanish Ricky. Totally flamboyant, extre-

mely hard and physically muscular, Ricky, with his bouffant hair style, flamboyant dress and heavy makeup would walk down the Portobello road market, goading the barrow boys to make fun of him. If they did he would then rush over and often punch them to the ground.

The problem was we moved in similar late night club circles. As time went on Ricky fell hook line and sinker for the young Leapy Lee. When feelings were not reciprocated, he used some completely fabricated rumour to beat me up quite heavily; so I was fully entitled to not like him. Delighted to report that a number of my many other gay friends made sure it never happened again!

A message here to the likes of Clint Eastwood and Sir Anthony Hopkins. As much I have always admired these two highly rated and widely admired members of the acting fraternity, I simply must come out in protest at their recent social platform ‘advice’ to humanity. They suggest that we should not look for luxury in watches or bracelets, nor shops, gifts, parties or events. They advise that true luxury is not found in money,

it is in being respected, able to play with your grandchildren, smelling the flowers, relaxing in the garden etc. I do of course agree with all these wonderful things. Unfortunately for most of us they cannot take priority. Only when other important problems have been taken care of can we truly relish all the really good things. Are we able to feed our families, can we pay the rent or the mortgage. Will our jobs and ambitions attain success etc? These two gentlemen have achieved everything in life. They have both been utterly successful in their chosen careers, managed to live to a grand old age, their bank accounts are spilling over and they also enjoy large families and a number of gracious dwellings. I’m sure we will all be delighted to follow their advice when we too have reached these goals. Unfortunately, for most of us, smelling the flowers and gazing at the stars can only be our exclusive enjoyments when we get a break from our efforts to survive. Don’t worry, at 85 I’m on my way!

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.

Taking the plunge

SPORTS minister Amelie Oudea-Castera went for a swim in the Seine on July 13.

The brief but well-publicised dip was intended to demonstrate that the river water would be safe enough for triathlon and open-water swimming events during the Paris Olympic Games which start on July 26.

Oudea-Castera, who prudently wore a wetsuit, was accompanied by Alexis Hanquinquant, the triathlon competitor who will be France’s flag-bearer at the Paralympics on August 28.

Water samples collected on June 16 failed to meet the required health and safety standards but the minister took to the water after city hall indicated the Seine water met required standards for ‘10 or 11 of the last 12 days’. By doing so, Oudea-Castera managed to eclipse Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo, who has also pledged to swim in the Seine “if the water quality is good enough.”

Whether or not Hidalgo decides to swim, the Seine water during the Games has been constantly on the organisers’ minds.

The Paris region saw unusually heavy rainfall over the past few weeks and this increased pollution levels after untreated sewage was swept into the river along with rainwater from overburdened storm drains.

Demonstrating that water is safe for swimming.

Lower prices

9 OUT 10 CUSTOMERS RECOMMEND US

In a recent survey of our customers after using Línea Directa’s Roadside Assistance and breakdown services, over 90 per cent said they would happily recommend our insurance services to a friend or colleague. Línea Directa would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to answer the questions in our survey as it has given us valuable feedback on our services and enabled us to integrate positive changes and continue to provide expert solutions for overseas residents in Spain.

ABSOLUTELY

EVERYTHING IS IN ENGLISH Car, bike and home insurance, with absolutely everything in English. The emergency and claims hotline is fast and efficient, with quick no obligation quo tes over the pho ne. The customer service team will help you decide on the best policy and there are easy payment options so you can spread the cost of your premiums.

Person’s Night-time Assistance. And their car insurance includes helpful services such as Legal Assistance that can provide help when applying for or renewing your driving licence in Spain.

EXPAT2EXPAT REWARD PROGRAMME

When an existing Línea Directa customer recommends a new customer, they both receive €30. Línea Directa’s Expat2Expat programme is free and open to all existing customers. You can recommend up to 10 people and earn up to €300 in cash per year. Simply ask your friend to call 917 002 006 and quote your full name. Then once their application for car, bike or home insurance has been approved, Línea Directa will pay the reward straight into the bank account following payment of next or first premium. For more information, see terms and conditions at lineadirecta.com.

LOWER THE PRICE OF YOUR INSURANCE

DID YOU KNOW?

All Línea Directa insurance policies offer additional features specifically designed for expatriates living in Spain. Their home insurance includes Pet Assistance, IT Assistance, and Home Maintenance. All motorbike policies come with Replacement Motorbike, Technical Equipment cover and even Young

Change to Línea Directa and they will lower the price of your insurance. Línea Directa has been providing comprehensive car, motorbike and home insurance to British expatriates and residents in Spain for over 25 years. With over three million customers nationwide, Línea Directa makes sure you get the best possible price for the kind of insurance you really need.

QUIRKY TOWN

Borgonya and Scotland

WHILST it is generally known that the Scots have influenced the world, it is something of a surprise to discover St Andrew’s flag flying in a Spanish town.

Although it’s not the only municipality to honour its Scottish links (as Teba has its own Douglas Days Celebration), the village of Borgonya in the foothills of the Spanish Pyrenees goes a step further.

In 1893, J&P Coats which was based in Paisley, Scotland decided to create a new factory in this quaint little village to weave the Paisley cloth that it had become famous for.

Turning back to Borgonya, employees from Coats travelled to the village to train the locals and their influence saw the building of terraced

houses with back gardens as seen in Scotland as well as creation of new streets with such names as Carrer Paisley, Coats and Escòcia.

The factory continued to grow and expand and lasted more than 100 years before finally closing in 1999, but the Scottish influence still remains today, none more obvious than the local football club, CD Borgonya whose team plays in the same black and white stripes as Paisley based St Mirren and even has a saltire (blue flag with white cross) on the shirt.

When the local football stadium was damaged in a storm not so long ago, a St Mirren fan on holiday in the area set up a crowdfunding page and raised £1,600 to help with the restoration efforts.

The local football team still emulate the St Mirren kit. Credit: CD Borgonya

What a nutty situation

MIKE SENKER IN MY OPINION

THE world is now officially totally bonkers. I don’t know what’s happening any more. The years are flying past.

Things that were considered pretty bad by police are now not worthy of even being reported. Shoplifting used to be a proper crime. I remember when I was a kid the police would be called if someone nicked a chocolate bar. Now I read that in America one big store group is removing shopping trolleys to deter the thieves coming in, filling them up and just walking out with them not even being challenged by security. The police won’t even attend unless it’s over a certain amount. How nuts is this situation?

To add insult to injury another clue these pieces of filth have found is that some of these stores have a no quibble refund guarantee (what is a quibble?). So they take the stuff they nicked back to other branches of the same store and get refunded!!! It’s like the Wild West out there. My friends that still have shops in the UK have confirmed that it’s a massive problem. I

know the woke brigade will get their undies in a twist, but it’s mostly very well organised groups of Eastern Europeanssorry but it’s a fact. The UK police do not know what to do. They seem to be protecting all the wrong people for fear of being called racist by all the do-gooders.

Interesting to see UK MPs taking their oath in Punjabi, and other languages, or not taking it at all because they don’t believe in a monarchy. Only in the UK - it’s a joke. I’ve no problem with any race or religion being a UK MP but at least respect the official language of the country you live in. OK enough of that.

Why do people think they know what dead people would like? How many times have I heard people say when making a ridiculous decision, ‘It’s what he would have wanted’. I want to say, I knew them better than you and they would have hated it. My advice is if you are in that position do what you think is best not what someone else tells you what the deceased would have liked.

Did you know that the baby in Three Men and a Baby is 40 years old now? Feeling old? My cloud storage for all my photos used to be an old biscuit tin!

Email: mikesenker@gmail.com

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

A Run for Your Life Festival: From lethal bull runnings to sad farewell traditional songs

tion of up to 1.5 million viewers daily from July 6 to 14 at 8am as they tune in to watch on TV. Planning a trip to Pamplona is no joke. Personally, I’d rather enjoy it from the comfort of home - no chance of facing off with angry bulls there! Yep, I chickened out. As they say, ‘Los Toros se ven mejor desde la barrera’ (It’s easy to be an armchair critic).

In this centuries-old celebration, the city hums with bars dishing out the best pintxos (tapas) and mouthwatering local cuisine to thousands of visitors. Beyond the thrilling bull run through the streets, the festival offers a quirky array of activities: photo booths with taxidermy bulls, concerts that shake cobblestones, fireworks illuminating the night sky, majestic processions, giant figure parades turning heads, live music grooving, and wood chopping competitions for the lumberjacks.

With seamless coordination among security forces, emergency services, maintenance crews, event planners, and media production teams, the streets are locked down early with 7,000 sturdy wooden barriers. Early birds start flocking at 4am to snag prime spectating spots.

The bull run itself, a whirlwind lasting two to five heart-pounding minutes, charges through iconic streets like Santo Domingo and Estafeta, ending in the bullring where spectators await the heroic

runners and their horned adversaries.

While I appreciate local customs in Spain, the festival’s animal cruelty in bullfighting gets under my skin, a sentiment echoed by many Spaniards who believe traditions shouldn’t come at the cost of animal suffering. Controversies aside, the ‘mozos’ (runners) treat this event with reverence, training rigorously for their moment of glory. For die-hard San Fermín enthusiasts, there’s no greater honour than boasting, “I ran in the San Fermín run.”

If you dare to participate in this heart-pounding event where life hangs in the balance and bulls are on the loose, remember the old adage: “It’s better to be trampled than gored!” Survival isn’t guaranteed, but the thrill draws adventurers from all corners of the globe. Despite its risks, for those brave enough to face the bulls, nothing compares to the adrenaline rush of this ultimate experience.

Just like any epic party, San Fermín eventually winds down. As July 14 approaches, revellers sing ‘pobre de mí’, (Poor me) bidding a bittersweet farewell to the highs and jubilant spirit of this grand celebration.

Gora San Fermín (long live San Fermín). As Spaniards say, “Que no te pille el toro” - never be caught off guard.

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

VIEWS OF A GRUMPY OLD MAN

Volunteering kindness

Donna Williams

AS President of Samaritans in Spain, I was honoured to participate in the Befrienders Worldwide Conference 2024, held in Columbo, Sri Lanka. The roots of Befrienders Worldwide can be traced back to Samaritans UK, which established Befrienders International, a crucial platform for coordinating ‘befriending’ agencies in over 40 countries.

Along with myself, delegates from across the globe came together to discuss the very prevalent issues of mental and emotional well-being that can affect anyone at any time and, in some cases, even lead to suicide.

The Inauguration Ceremony was a truly cultural occasion, with male and female dancers in traditional costumes and the lighting of the symbolic tree. This ensured that light shone upon us as we came together to learn from each other and forge new connections.

Aside from attending as a delegate, I was privileged to be chosen as one of the speakers. I was able to share a little more about Sama-

ritans in Spain and how we work and speak on a new initiative we have undertaken. Thanks to a collaboration with the Santiago Embassy of Chile, we can now provide our services to English speakers residing in Chile. Before this, they had nowhere to turn to besides the

Embassy, which felt ill-equipped to handle such delicate matters.

During my time at the conference, I heard from renowned professors specialising in suicidology and learnt just how truly important ‘active listening’ is as a suicide prevention tool. I was humbled by

the extreme situations and personal trauma that some of the organisations were responding to with kindness and emotional support daily. I met a tenacious lady in her 80s from an organisation in Sri Lanka who introduced online training when the pandemic pre-

vented her from carrying out face-to-face. She described how she didn’t really understand the online world and turned to her grandchildren to assist her in what she believed was possible. I also heard from an organisation located in Lebanon that has been developing an evaluation tool to measure the effectiveness of their presence.

Each workshop I attended brought new ideas, discoveries, and ways of doing things. Not everything was agreed upon, but healthy debates and discussions ensued, bringing us all ever closer. Something truly magical happens when like-minded people come together, and all egos are put to one side. It made no difference the role we played in our organisation; we all had an equal voice, which I found to be truly inspiring.

During the conference, the Welsh term ‘cynefin’ (pronounced kuh-nev-in) was used to describe us as a community, and I couldn’t agree more.

To find out more about Samaritans in Spain, visit www.samaritansinspain.com

Spanish Stone Age Sandals

CURIOUS about the origins of your espadrilles? The earliest known version of these iconic sandals dates back a staggering 4,000 years, or so we thought. But recent discoveries have pushed that timeline even further, revealing sandals woven from grass believed to be 6,000 years old. These ancient artefacts were unearthed in a bat cave in Andalucia, preserved remarkably well by the cave’s low humidity, despite being plundered by miners in the 19th century.

Among the trove weren’t just sandals, but also baskets and an array of tools. Experts claim that this collection represents the oldest and best-preserved set of plant fibre artefacts in southern Europe, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of prehistoric societies.

Advanced dating techniques have revealed that this cache actually dates back 9,000 years. The sandals themselves, crafted from various grasses along with leather and lime, hail from the Neolithic era, predating even the 5,500-yearold leather shoes discovered in an

Armenian cave in 2008.

The site of this extraordinary find is La Cueva de los Murciélagos, or Cave of the Bats, first explored in 1831 by a landowner in pursuit of, err, bat droppings for fertiliser. Subsequently, miners stumbled upon a chamber containing mummified remains, baskets, wooden implements and even a unique gold diadem, adding layers of intrigue to this ancient trove.

Ancient wisdom, modern lessons - who says history is boring?

Nora Johnson’s 12 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Couple across the Street’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

Nora’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily

President, Samaritans in Spain (centre) with other delegates showing ‘love’ Malaysia style.

Sponsored by

Shading shenanigans

CHOOSING the right shade of lipstick based on your skin tone can greatly enhance your overall look. Here’s how to find your perfect match. For fair skin tones, opt for soft pinks, light corals, and peachy nudes. These shades add a delicate pop of colour without overpowering your complexion. For a bolder look, classic reds with blue undertones are flattering. Medium skin tones benefit

from a wide range of shades. Warm pinks, mauves, and berries are excellent choices. For a more dramatic effect, rich reds and deep burgundies complement your skin beautifully.

Olive skin tones look best in earthy colours like warm browns, terracotta, and brick reds. These shades harmonise with the natural warmth of your complexion. Bright colours like coral and oran -

ge-based reds can also be stunning.

Deep skin tones can rock bold, vibrant shades effortlessly. Rich plums, deep berries, and dark reds look striking. For added glam, metallics or bright, vivid colours like fuchsia are perfect. By matching your lipstick to your skin tone, you can enhance your natural beauty and create a harmonious look.

Domestic Zen zone

ENHANCING the energy in your home can have a profound impact on your well-being, fostering a sense of tranquility and positivity. Here are some effective ways to cleanse and uplift your home’s energy:

Decluttering: Clearing out unnecessary items helps to open up the space, allowing energy to flow freely. A decluttered environment reduces stress and promotes mental clarity.

Smudging: Burning sage or palo santo is a traditional method to clear negative energy. The aromatic smoke purifies the air, creating a calm and serene atmosphere.

Salt cleansing: Sprinkling salt in room corners or using salt lamps can absorb negative energies. Salt’s natural purifying properties help to enhance the room’s vibrancy. House plants: Adding plants like lavender or aloe vera not only purifies the air but also brings a touch of nature indoors, promoting a calming effect.

Sound therapy: Using singing bowls, chimes, or playing soothing music can break up stagnant energy. Sound vibrations uplift the home’s atmosphere, fostering harmony. By incorporating these practices, your home becomes a sanctuary of positive energy, reflecting in improved mood, health, and overall well-being.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Torremolinos Pride

LGBTI Congress of Andalucia, at an event hosted in Torremolinos, recognises Andalucia as a model province not only in Spain but worldwide. Torremolinos played host to the fourth iteration of the congressional meeting held on June 12, however, the town received the distinction on July 9.

Minister of Social Inclusion, Youth, Families, and Equality, Loles López inaugurated the event and announced a new distinction that will be given to spaces deemed to be free from LGBTIphobia. To receive that recognition, LGBTI people in the area will be able to recommend both public and private institutions.

The group has over 300 members, made up very evenly of men and women and largely of an age range between 25 and 45. The event saw several roundtable discussions led by experts including Andalucian government lawyer Olvido Valdes, who gave a talk on the challenges and threats towards the LGBTI community.

Axarquia

Coastal connection

THE Granada Provincial Council has announced an investment of over €6 million to extend the Senda Litoral (coastal path) to Cabo de Gata through Granada. This initiative will cover more than 80 kilometres of the Costa Tropical, complementing the work already done along the Costa del Sol and the Almeria coast. The project will connect 18 towns from Nerja to Almuñecar and further to Almeria.

Granada’s regional government aims to link the existing trails between Manilva and Malaga’s Axarquia region with those in Almeria, reaching the scenic Cabo de Gata. The nearly completed Senda Litoral-GR91 E12 spans over 200 kilometres and is accessible for walking and cycling, though some areas restrict bikes.

Recent projects, like the pedestrian bridge over the Granadillas stream in Rincon de la Victoria, highlight the environmental and public space benefits of the Senda Litoral, which is now 90 per cent complete in Malaga.

Mallorca ‘Have Fun with Respect’

CALVIA and Consell de Mallorca are joining forces to promote responsible tourism with the launch of their new campaign, ‘Have Fun with Respect’.

The campaign will have a high profile throughout Calvia. Social media will also play a key role in spreading the message, ensuring broad reach among tourists and residents.

“Responsible tourism is more than just a goal, it’s the future we’re building to guarantee positive experiences for both tourists and residents,” stated Jose Marcial Rodríguez Díaz, Minister of Tourism for Consell de Mallorca, during the campaign’s launch.

“Raising awareness about the importance of civil behaviour is essential for fostering coexistence and mutual respect.”

Calvia’s mayor, Juan Antonio Amengual, said - “Calvia is a safe and high-quality leisure destination. Civility and responsibility from both tourists and residents are fundamental in maintaining that reputation.”

Costa Blanca North Benidorm United

IN Spain’s ‘Little England’, more than 4,000 people from the two countries united to watch the Euro Cup final on Sunday July 14. Benidorm showed a live screening of the match at the Julio Iglesias auditorium, which reached its 4,000 people capacity. Home to more than 3,000 English residents and even more visitors, an event as significant as the Euro Cup was anticipated in Benidorm with concern for a conflict.

The mayor of Benidorm, Toni Perez collaborated with Local and National Police, setting up drones across the city and prohibiting the sale of alcohol in glass containers a few hours before the finals. Anyone who has been to Benidorm knows the city is never calm; a place that feels like an all-yearround holiday and unites such diverse nationalities. For the English living in Benidorm, being in Spain comes with a love for the country and despite losses, the majority spent a night in celebration of sports, friendships and global achievements.

Almeria

World Rock Day

ON July 13, 1985, Bob Geldorf (Boomtown Rats) and Midge Ure (Ultravox) cajoled most of the world’s most famous rock stars to perform for charity. With Live Aid shows in both London and Philadelphia raising millions for relief of starvation in Ethiopia, it was Phil Collins who flew across the Atlantic to appear at both events and who called for the establishment of a World Rock Day to mark the special day.

This year, youngsters taking part in the Albox Musical Summer School were primed to celebrate Rock for an entire week and they were photographed on Saturday July 13 showing their support for World Rock Day.

According to the council, it’s important that those taking part in the school have a diverse and enriching musical education which takes in all types of genres of music including Rock, especially as Rock Albox is one of the longest running musical festivals in Almeria and is now in its 39th year.

Costa Blanca South Soaring stats

THE Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport has set a new record, closing June with 1,772,559 passengers, the highest number ever achieved in a single month. This surpasses the previous record set in May by 1.32 per cent and marks a 17.7 per cent increase compared to June 2023.

International travellers make up the majority, with 1,532,755 passengers, reflecting a 16.8 per cent increase.

National traffic also saw a significant rise, with 237,528 passengers, a 24 per cent increase from the previous year.

Among international travellers, the United Kingdom contributed the most with 612,123 passengers, followed by the Netherlands (103,953), Germany (103,131), Belgium (85,689), and France (81,876).

For the first half of the year, the airport managed a total of 8,341,151 passengers, 17.9 per cent more than the same period in 2023.

Stress signals

DOGS, like humans, can experience stress, which can manifest in various ways. Recognising the signs of stress in your dog is crucial for ensuring their well-being.

Common indicators include changes in behaviour such as excessive barking, destructive behaviour, or aggression. Your dog may also show physical signs like panting, trembling, or excessive shedding. Pay attention to body language; a stressed dog might have a tucked tail, flattened ears, or dilated pupils. Additionally, changes in eating and sleeping patterns can be red flags. If your dog is avoiding food or water, or sleeping more than usual, stress could be the culprit.

king lips, and avoiding eye contact are subtler signs of discomfort. Common stressors include loud noises, unfamiliar environments, separation from owners, and changes in routine. If you notice these behaviours, try to identify and eliminate the source of stress and provide a calm, safe environment for your furry friend.

Feline factors

WHEN adopting a cat, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure a good match for your home. First, observe the cat’s behaviour: a friendly, curious demeanour is ideal. Notice how the cat interacts with people and other animals. A well-socialised cat will approach calmly and enjoy being petted.

Our house-sitters are pet lovers who’ll care for your pets

THERE is nothing better than being able to go on holiday knowing your pets are in good hands, being cared for at home by real pet lovers who will cherish them as you would. Lamia and Chloe are mother and daughter who love travelling and pet-sitting together to discover new locations. They find it’s a great way to travel.

By joining a house-sitting platform like HouseSitMatch we facilitate an old-fashioned barter exchange where a pet owner provides the pet-sitter with free accommodation and the sitter cares for the pets and property with due care and attention, just like old fashioned barter.

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 safety, 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 Housesitmatch.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 homeowner 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.

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.9 / 5 Excellent

My neighbours tell us Harry had plenty of walks… Sherel and John looked after Harry early April. They sent photos and mails to inform us how he was getting on. My neighbours tell us Harry had plenty of walks. Sherel and John are very nice people, and we highly recommend them as excellent sitters.

Tom C - homeowner in Mojacar, Spain

How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com

Need a pet or house-sitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation! Reader exclusive offer - 20% Off Any New Membership Register as either house-sitter or homeowner. Get a 20% discount - Use coupon code PERFECT20.

Check for physical health indicators: clear eyes, a clean coat, and healthy weight are positive signs. Ask about the cat’s medical history, vaccinations, and any known health issues.

Red flags include

excessive aggression, extreme shyness, or signs of illness such as runny eyes, coughing, or lethargy. A cat hiding constantly or displaying aggressive behaviour may indicate underlying problems. Evaluate your living situation and lifestyle to ensure you can meet the cat’s needs. By considering these factors, you can find a healthy, happy cat that fits well into your home.

Shutterstock/Konstantin Aksenov

Lamia and Chloe love dogs, and they love housesitting too!

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

THE All-New Dacia Spring, at £14,995, is the UK’s most affordable new electric car by a margin of thou sands of pounds. I exclude the much cheaper Citroen Ami as it’s left hand drive, and not really a car, more a mo torised quadracycle.

Dacia have a good track record of bringing very affordable cars to mar ket and in the process leaving the competition behind in whiche ver sector they choose. The Spring could be the EV that brings electric cars to the motoring masses. Well on price certainly, but will buyers take to it because it’s not without its issues.

There are two versions, the lead-in Expression and more upmarket Extreme at £16,995. Standard fare inclu des air conditioning, rear par king sensors, power front windows and a rear wiper. Not something you find on every EV! The higher trim Extreme version adds front parking sensors and a rear parking camera, allround power windows, tyre pressure monitoring and power door mirrors. Both cars drive the front wheels with the lead-in model at 45hp not

New Dacia Spring rewrites the EV rulebook, but it’s not without issues

suspect it could struggle on busy A roads. The higher powered 65 hp version would obviously fare better on faster, less urban roads. However the potential issues don’t end there as the driving range is quoted as just 140 miles, which in real world driving will be less than this stated figure depending upon conditions and type of driving. Dacia claim the Spring will run for six days of average urban driving without charging.

being exactly fast. The benchmark 62 mph takes an astonishing 19.1 seconds and the top speed is 78 mph. Even the more powerful 65hp takes 13.7 seconds, although Dacia claim a more appropriate time is the 0 to 31mph at 5.8 seconds and 3.9 seconds respectively.

Dacia say the car, especially the lead-in version, is aimed more at urban motorists, but this misses the point that even at such a competitive price this is an expensive city runabout. Take it on a longer run and I

If you can live with the limited range, and even more limited performance, then the Spring is another impressive model from Dacia. Yes it might be cheap and cheerful, it might have limited range and it certainly isn’t quick. However, it looks the part of the stylish mini off-roader, is without doubt the most affordable EV and over time Dacia will improve it as they have with all their models.

DACIA SPRING: Without doubt the most affordable EV.

Southgate quits Beckham praises Yamal

DAVID BECKHAM, has expressed his admiration for Spain’s youngest player, Lamine Yamal. “There needs to be an ID check,” Beckham joked. “Because what we’re seeing on the pitch is a player who looks 25 with the maturity of a seasoned veteran.”

Yamal’s composure and technical brilliance have captivated audiences worldwide. Bec kham highlighted the teenager’s cool demeanour, contrasting it with the pressure most young players experience.

“He plays with such joy, you’d think he’s just having a kickabout with friends,” Beckham said. “This is a kid who’s already played Champions League, La Liga, and now the Euros! It’s mind-boggling.”

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star believes the world might not be prepared for a peak Lamine Yamal. “What he’s doing at 16 is simply unbelievable,” Beckham concluded.

“Football has a gem on its hands, no

DESPITE getting to the European Cup Finals, Gareth Southgate has decided to quit as England Manager, and the process for appointing his successor is already underway.

In discussing his resignation, he said, “As a proud English man, it has been the honour of my life to play for and manage England. It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all. But it’s time for change and for a new chapter.”

ttable memories for everyone who loves the Three Lions. We look back at Gareth’s tenure

When asked about succession plans, he would not be drawn on any names, simply stating, “We know there will be inevitable speculation, but we won’t be commenting further on our process until

The 53-year-old led the England team to a World Cup semi-final and two Euro finals. In fact, he boasts a better win rate than even Sir Alf Ramsey, who led England to World Cup victory in 1966. His record of 64 wins out of 102 matches is surpassed only by Fa bio Capello, who was in charge of England between 2008 and Assistant boss Steve Holland will also be stepping down. In response to the resignations, Mark Bullin gham, Chief Executive of the FA, said, “Over the last eight years, they have transformed the England -

Gareth Southgate celebrates winning 2024 Euro semi-final.

David Beckham is in awe of young star, Yamal.