Costa Calida 25 – 31 July 2024 Issue 2038

Helping local families

Catherine McGeer

HELP Murcia Mar Menor, a voluntary charitable emergency service, recently contributed €2,000 to the charity DEBRA, which supports families affected by Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), commonly known as Butterfly Skin. EB is a rare and painful condition that causes the skin to blister easily, often leading to severe discomfort and complications. This debilitating disease can appear suddenly and affects patients from birth, making even the simplest actions, like walking or eating, incredibly painful.

DEBRA is dedicated to improving the quality of life for children with EB and their families through specialised care and support. Their team of nurses, psychologists, and researchers

HOTELS in Lorca are buzzing this summer!

According to Santiago Parra, Lorca’s Tourism councillor, the first half of July saw an 11 per cent increase in hotel guests compared to the same period last year.

A survey by the Murcia Region Tourism Institute (ITREM) revealed that hotel occupancy jumped from 52 per cent in 2023 to 63 per cent in 2024.

But that’s not all. Parra shared that Lorca has welcomed 33.1 per cent more travellers year-over-year, reaching a total of 15,728 visitors. This impressive growth makes Lorca one of the top tourist destinations in the

works tirelessly to ease daily suffering and provide essential resources. The charity relies entirely on donations to fund their services and outreach.

Although DEBRA operates internationally, HELP Murcia Mar Menor has ensured that this generous €2,000

donation will specifically benefit children and families in the Murcia region. The donation was formally presented by HELP Murcia Mar Menor’s President, Debbie, alongside several dedicated volunteers, to Mary Chambers, a representative from DEBRA’s Quesada offi -

ce. The event took place outside the HELP MMM retail outlet, highlighting the commitment of both organisations to supporting local communities.

This contribution will aid DEBRA in its ongoing mission to bring relief and support to those affected by EB.

Lorca stands out

Murcia Region. The positive trend is backed by Exceltur, which ranks Murcia among the regions with

the best summer growth prospects. Parra noted that while foreign tourists are on the rise, most visitors to Lorca’s

Tourist Office, the Castle, and the Visitor Centre are still nationals.

Mayor Fulgencio Gil’s efforts are paying off. Parra attributed the success to effective promotional campaigns and strategic partnerships. And the fun doesn’t stop here. Lorca has lined up a variety of activities, including guided tours, nighttime events, and live music dinners, all detailed on www.lorca.es .

“We invite everyone to explore Lorca’s rich cultural and tourist offerings this summer,” Parra concluded.

AS of mid-2024, Mazarron has overtaken Gandia as the most profitable coastal area for property investments in Spain. According to Fotocasa’s ‘Profitability in Coastal Towns in Summer 2024,’ the average return on coastal properties is 6.5 per cent.

Mazarron, located in Murcia, now leads with an impressive return of 11.4 per cent, surpassing Gandia’s 10.8 per cent. Gandia, which had been at the top for the past three years, is now in second place. The report notes that only these two towns offer returns exceeding 10 per cent this year, whereas five towns surpassed this threshold in 2023.

Other notable coastal areas with high returns include Laredo and Águilas, both at 9.6 per cent. Conversely, San Sebastian and Calpe have the lowest returns, at 3.7 per cent. Maria Matos from Fotocasa highlights that while coastal property returns are generally strong, Valencia’s coast has notably outperformed Andalucia this year and Murcia continues to rise.

Costa Calida • Issue No. 2038 • 25 - 31 July 2024 FREE

Image: Shutterstock/ JL. Lago

Tourists flock to Lorca.

Image: Facebook/ Help Murcia Mar Menor

Funding relief for Butterfly Skin.

Mazarron tops coastal property returns.

Image: Shutterstock/ Charlesy

Jubilee spotlight

CARAVACA DE LA CRUZ kicked off a new tourism campaign at the Barnuevo Esplanade in Santiago de la Ribera. The initiative, which will run through July and August, was announced by the towns of San Javier and Caravaca de la Cruz at the Miramar restaurant. Attendees included mayors José Miguel Luengo and José Francisco García, along with local councillors and business people.

The campaign features several activities: a plane will fly over the beaches from Mar Menor to Benidorm with ads, and they will distribute Caravaca’s cultural schedule on beaches

like San Javier, Mazarron, and Torrevieja, and hotels will offer discounts using the code VERANO24.

José Miguel Luengo, mayor of San Javier, emphasised the value of this partnership, saying, “We’re excited to work with Caravaca de la Cruz to promote our beaches and attract more visitors. It’s a great chance to showcase our region’s cultural and natural attractions.” José Francisco García, mayor of Caravaca de la Cruz, noted the positive early results for the local hotel and hospitality industry and stressed the importance of promoting cultural and family tourism.

AS summer heat drives people to the sea, po pular beaches can become overwhelmingly crowded. However, there are still quiet spots where visitors can enjoy a peaceful day by the water.

Cala de los Déntoles in the Calblanque Natural Park offers a relaxing escape with its 50 metres of soft golden sand. The cove is easily reachable via a short walk from either Cala Reona or the Cala Magre parking area, taking just five to 10 minutes.

Further along, Cala Leño in Mazarron provides a bit more space, stretching 100 metres. Located in

a protected natural area where nudism is allowed, it’s accessible by foot, as vehicles are restricted from entering the path leading to the cove.

For those seeking a more expansive space, Playa de la Rambla Elena in Águilas is the longest on this list at 450 metres. Despite its size, it remains relatively uncrowded. Situated in Cabo Cope, a protected area, access requires driving along an unpaved road and completing the journey on foot.

These hidden coves offer a respite from the bustling main beaches, perfect for a more relaxed seaside experience.

Ouigo launches early Escape the crowds

Catherine McGeer

OUIGO, the low-cost high-speed rail operator, will officially launch its new service between Murcia and Madrid a day earlier than planned. The inauguration, initially scheduled for September 5, will now take place on September 4, coinciding with the September Fair in Murcia.

Hélène Valenzuela, General Director of Ouigo, will present the new route at El Carmen train station at 11.20am on the opening day. The service will connect Murcia with Madrid, passing through Elche and Albacete. Regular operations will begin on September 5.

The new trains will offer travel times of two hours and 45 minutes, competing with Renfe’s high speed trains. Services will run daily with departures from Murcia at 12.39pm and 8.39pm, and from Madrid-Chamartín at 8.15am and 4.15pm. Each train will make brief stops in Albacete and Elche.

The trains will have a capacity of 509 passengers, expandable to 1,018 with double units. Weekly, the route will offer 14,000 seats. Tickets, available since May, start at €9 for adults, €7 for children aged three to 14, and are free for those under three.

New campaign boosts regional tourism.

Early start for Ouigo’s new route.

Image: San Javier Town Hall

Image: Shutterstock/ olrat

Hidden coves for a peaceful beach day.

Image: Shutterstock/ Voyagerix

Missing in Spain

SPAIN, a land of culture, stunning beaches, and welcoming locals, also faces a lesser-known travel concern: tourist disappearances.

Unlike missing persons within a resident population, tourist disappearances are di cult to track.

Factors like short travel durations, language barriers, and privacy concerns can make it hard to

determine if a missing person is truly lost or simply unreachable due to travel plans.

In April, a 31-year-old American tourist, Ryan Anthony, vanished in Barcelona after experiencing a mental health crisis. His disappearance, linked to stolen belongings, highlighted the vulnerability of solo travellers facing personal struggles

The disappearance of British teenager Jay Slater in Tenerife in May sent shockwaves through the travel community. Despite extensive searches, his body was tragically discovered weeks later.

Just this month, 26-yearold Benjamin Ross, lost contact with his family on July 10, after extending a holiday in Mallorca.

These are just a few re-

KNOWING what to do in an emergency is essential for residents and visitors in Spain - it’s about having vital contact numbers at your ngertips.

Remember this universal number: 112. It’s the emergency hotline that connects you to police, ambulance, re services, or coastguard services across Spain and the entire European Union. Calling 112 is free and available 24/7, even without a SIM card in your pho-

Go Fund Me

SEARCHING for a missing loved one abroad can be a logistical and financial nightmare. Hiring private investigators with international experience, securing translators, and covering travel costs quickly deplete resources. For families already dealing with emotional turmoil, the financial strain can be paralysing.

GoFundMe offers a lifeline, allowing families to reach out to a global audience for support. However, relying on the generosity of strangers creates an unsettling reality: the ability to search for a missing loved one hinges on the unpredictability of online donors.

Critics argue that families shouldn’t be forced to beg for donations to find their loved ones. They point out that governments should provide more resources and support for families in these situations.

Crowdfunding success depends heavily on a compelling story and social media reach. This can disadvantage families with limited resources or those unfamiliar with online fundraising platforms.

ported cases, and the true number of tourists who go missing in Spain each year likely remains unknown.

The reasons behind tourist disappearances in Spain can vary. Some incidents may involve foul play, while others could be attributed to accidents, wandering o course, or even intentional avoidance of contact due to personal reasons.

The case of Jay Slater demonstrated the public’s suspicion of fundraisers for missing people. Whilst many supported the campaign, some felt that the family might be exploiting the system. A Facebook user stated - “So don’t get me wrong, it is sad what happened to Jay Slater in Tenerife, but his mother is now asking for more money to give him a good send off and the Go Fund Me page has just hit £60,000. Really?!”

ne. 112 operators are trained to respond only to real emergencies. They do not provide general information.

If you require urgent medical attention or an ambulance, dial 061. This toll-free number connects you directly to professional health support during medical emergencies.

For immediate re response, call 080 or 085. The speci c number depends on your region, but both connect you to local re departments.

Need tourist information or assistance with local events, cultural activities, or public transport schedules? Dial +34 902 102 112 for the Tourist Helpline. Services are o ered in English, French, German and Italian.

Always keep your home country’s embassy or consulate contact information handy.

online and in print is FREE and we promise to always keep it that way.

The last update on Ryan Anthony (wearing baseball cap) was July 25 - he was seen at a hostel in Barcelona without phone, money, or passport.

Credit: Kayli Anthony Willis/fb

The Go Fund Me campaign for Jay Slater resulted in public suspicion.

Steps for cancer

Catherine McGeer THEGREFG, a popular YouTuber from Murcia, has joined the challenge organised by the athlete and influencer Pitufollow to raise funds for children battling cancer. This initiative aims to set a positive example for their millions of followers on social media. Sergio Turull, known as Pitufollow, is running along the Mediterranean coast for 10 days to support the fight against childhood cancer.

David Cánovas, also known as TheGrefg, has taken a break from Andorra to spend time at his family home in Alhama de Murcia. Eager to contribu-

te to the cause, he ran 27 kilometres with Pitufollow through the Region of Murcia. Their journey took two and a half hours and ended near Tentegorra in the Campo de Cartagena. At the end of the run, TheGrefg pledged to donate €100 for each kilometre he completed. The funds raised, now exceeding €13,000, will go to the ‘El jardín de mi hospi’ project at the maternal and child hospital in Malaga. Pitufollow started his run from Cadiz on July 8 and plans to finish on July 30.

Going old school

THE old schools and courtyards in Bolnuevo, dating back to the 1960s, are set to be transformed into a new Nature Interpretation Centre in Mazarron. This rehabilitation project, spearheaded by the Mazarron Town Council and designed by local architect Pepa Díaz, will cost over €295,000.

The project features a strong marine theme, reflecting Díaz’s commit-

ment to authentic and meaningful design.

Díaz emphasises that the new centre aims to make Bolnuevo a regional hub for marine and wetland conservation, focusing on local seagrass meadows and marshes.

The project also addresses the lack of public spaces in Bolnuevo, providing a venue for community events.

The renovation will

Eco-friendly renovation project.

include versatile spaces with advanced technology and accessibility features. The building’s original two-storey structure will be adapted, preserving its community character while incorporating sustainable materials and eco-friendly practices. The exterior will be redesigned to offer a multifunctional public area with playgrounds, shaded zones, and local plant displays.

Heatwave hits

AS crowds flocked to the beach over the weekend to escape the heatwave, Take That and their fans braved the scorching temperatures. Street thermometers in Murcia City displayed a staggering 51 degrees Celsius, yet Take That impressed fans by performing all their hits in full costume under the stage lights.

Thousands sought relief by driving to the coast, enjoying the cooler coastal breeze. On July 21, temperatures eased slightly to around 39 degrees in areas like Vega del Segura and Guadalentín.

Popular beaches were a sea of colourful umbrellas and towels, with some beachgoers braving the sun after slathering on sunscreen, while others sought shade under umbrellas, loaded with beach gear. The real challenge, however, was finding space in the water to cool off.

The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) kept a yellow alert for high temperatures in Vega del Segura, Campo de

ON July 20, residents from several coastal towns in the Murcia region staged human chains to protest against the current Coastline Law. The demonstrations occurred at beaches in Cabo de Palos, Los Nietos, Bahía and Nares in Mazarron, and Puntas de Calnegre in Lorca.

The protests were organised by SomosMediterránea, a coalition representing over 50 property owner associations across various Spanish regions.

Cartagena, and Mazarron, and warned of extreme wildfire risk in most regions, except the coast. The heat eased on Monday but more heatwaves are forecast!

Murcia’s

coastal fight

Manuel López, spokesperson for SomosMediterránea, criticised the law for retroactively altering property deeds into temporary permits.

López argued that this change infringes on property rights guaranteed by the Spanish Constitution, as property owners followed legal procedures, obtained necessary permits, and paid taxes.

López indicated that further protests might be planned throughout the summer until a resolution is reached. The group contends that the administration’s actions unfairly replace permanent property rights with temporary enjoyment rights, likening the situation to a deceptive game rather than a serious democratic process.

Seahorse rescue

THE Mar Menor is struggling with environmental problems. One species hit hard is the seahorse, which has seen its numbers drop since DANA in 2019. To help, the Murcia Aquarium is taking action.

Emilio Cortés, the director of the University of Murcia Aquarium, says they now have over 3,000

seahorses in their care.

This large number helps them with recovery e orts if needed. The aquarium is also focused on breeding the Nacra, a critically endangered shell sh that helps clean the water.

The Nacra project is part of the Mar Menor Species Bank and is showing positive signs with new Nacra

appearing this year. Despite this progress, Cortés stresses that saving the Mar Menor is a complex issue that needs ongoing expertise.

“The problems are more complicated than they seem,” he says, highlighting the need for skilled biologists and scientists to tackle the challenges.

thermometer: Facebook/ Krystle Louise Blackmore

Running strong for cancer research.

Image: Instagram/ thegrefg

Image: Facebook/ Andres Aznar

Night-bus

THE Department of Youth in Los Alcazares has introduced a new Búho-Bus service (Night bus service) this summer. The service will operate every Friday and Saturday throughout July and August. This night bus aims to provide a safe and convenient way for young people in the town to reach the main leisure areas.

The Búho-Bus service charges a nominal fee of €1 per ticket. It is designed to enhance safety and accessibility for local youth during the summer months. Information about the bus schedules and stops can be found on the Los Alcazares Town Hall website losalcazares.es and the Youth Department’s social media channels.

This initiative is part of the Youth Department’s efforts to support and engage the younger population, offering them a reliable transportation option for their social activities.

Lemontree Market

AGE CONCERN Costa Calida, a charity dedicated to supporting those over 50 with services like advice, befriending, and medical equipment hire, is organising a day trip to Lemontree Market in Guardamar. Managed entirely by volunteers, the charity invites everyone to join them for a day of fun and shopping.

On Sunday, September 15, participants will depart via a comfortable coach from Puerto de Mazarron, Mazarron Country Club, and Camposol B.

The trip offers an opportunity to explore Lemontree Market’s diverse stalls, enjoy local food, and meet new

and old friends in a relaxed setting.

The cost for the round-trip journey is just €20. Given the limited number of seats, early booking is recommended.

For reservations, contact 634 344 589 or 612 118 069 , or visit the Social Centre in Camposol C Sector. In August, tickets can be purchased on Saturday mornings between 10am and 12pm at The Diner on Camposol.

Additionally, Age Concern Costa Calida’s Table Top Sale occurs on the last Saturday of every month from 10am to 1pm at the Social Centre Garden on Camposol Sector C. Don’t miss out!

Free guided tours

THE city council of Cartagena is set to introduce the ‘Abierto por Obras’ (Open During Construction) programme, which will offer guided tours of the Roman Amphitheatre. Mayor Noelia Arroyo announced this initiative during the Debate on the State of the Municipality held recently.

This summer, visitors can join free tours in two shifts of 30 people each, scheduled for Wednesday afternoons in July and August. Details for registration will be available on the local city hall website. The tours aim to showcase the ongoing archaeological work and the latest discoveries at the site. The programme, first presented at Fitur in January, comes after revisions to the excavation plans due to new findings. A newly discovered structure and a network of channels have led to modifications in the project timeline. The city has allocated €500,000 for the next phase and submitted a €1.2 million project for further preservation and expansion.

Tours will be conducted by official guides, with safety measures including closed-toe shoes and adult supervision for children. Reservations opened on July 20 at 2pm, with tours available until early September. For more information see Cartagena.es

Summer archaeology tours.

Image: Shutterstock/ Doodeez

Charity Golf Day

THE Royal British Legion will host a charity golf day at El Plantio on August 21. The event will follow a Texas Scramble format and is priced at €60 per player. This fee includes the use of buggies and a chance to win various prizes.

Registration will begin at 9am, with the first tee time set for 10am. Participants can also challenge themselves with a par competition on the 14th hole. A raffle will be held during the day, with all proceeds going to support the Legion’s charitable activities.

Those interested in contributing items for the raffle or seeking further information can reach out to the organizers. Bob Smith can be contacted on 0034 693 788 661 or via email at ro bertsmith262@yamail.com Alternatively, Paul Kane is available on 0034 711 006 647 or paulkane209103ra@ gmail.com.

San Javier Camping

CAMPING San Javier, located at the entrance of the town on Avenida de Balsicas, is currently 95 per cent occupied and expects to reach full capacity in the coming days. This was reported by the campsite’s manager, Salvador Montoya, during a visit from San Javier’s mayor, José Miguel Luengo.

Cutting-edge motel

FUENTE ALAMO is about to welcome a new and unique motel, designed by the Cartagena-based architecture firm Meii. This ‘self-aware motel’ will be part of the Garcerán service station and combines modern design with nostalgic elements and a touch of science fiction.

Mayor Luengo explained that these visits aim to better understand, promote, and support local tourist resources. He noted that Camping San Javier, one of the area’s oldest campsites, has been actively upgrading its facilities recently.

Spanning 40,000 square metres, the campsite offers about 200 spaces in bungalows and mobile homes.

The visit, which also included Tourism councillor Estíbaliz Masegosa and Finance and Local Development councillor Héctor Verdú, is part of a series of inspections of local tourist facilities.

Montoya shared that summer visitors are primarily families from Murcia, Alicante, and Madrid, while European caravans begin arriving in September.

By the end of summer, foreign tourists, mainly from England, France, and Germany, make up 80 per cent of the campsite’s guests.

The facility employs 20 staff members and includes sports facilities, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.

The motel is a fresh take on the classic 1970s American roadside motel, aiming to become a standout feature at future Garcerán locations. Architects José María Mateo and Elvira Carrión have announced that construction will start soon and should be completed within six months.

The new motel will offer 23 double rooms, each designed for comfort and equipped with modern amenities. Guests will enjoy a streamlined digital check-in and reservation system. The building features a modular design with prefabricated elements and an open metal structure covered by a double-layer façade, which adds a distinctive and eco-friendly touch.

Image: San Javier Town Hall

Camping San Javier hits full capacity.

Ben Ross found alive

BRITISH trainee barrister

Ben Ross has been found alive after vanishing on the Spanish island of Mallorca on July 10. The 26-yearold’s disappearance sparked a frantic search by his family and friends. His mother, Felix Robinson has expressed immense relief in a statement: “I’m so incredibly grateful for all the help and support we’ve received. Everyone has been truly incredible. We are so relieved to have found him and are now focused on getting him back to full health and home safe and well.”

Determined to nd her son, Felix travelled to Mallorca and launched a personal search. Meanwhile, Ben’s friend, Carla, set up an online fundraiser to support the family’s e orts. While the exact circumstances of Ben’s disappearance and subsequent discovery remain unclear, the news of his safe return brings great relief to his family and the community.

“THERE is no new King of Pop. You didn’t earn it, my uncle did,” shared Michael Jackson’s nephew, Taj Jackson on X, after seeing the Rolling Stone UK cover, crowning Harry Styles with the honourable title.

Rolling Stone awarded the 30-yearold pop singer, Harry Styles with the title that no one since Michael Jackson had dared to touch, causing mixed reactions from the public and alarmed responses from Jackson’s family.

Michael Jackson’s son, Prince Jackson appeared on Good Morning Britain to address the controversy. “I do feel that my father is the King of Pop, will always be the King of Pop, and it’s not something that you can ever take away...”

Michael Jackson was rst titled the King of Pop by the iconic American actress, Elizabeth Taylor when she presented him with the Heritage Award for career achievement at the Soul Train Music Awards in 1989.

This was 25 years after the start of Jackson’s career; 25 years of his tireless work and ght against racial and class discrimination.

Rolling Stone crowned Harry Styles with the same title just six years after his launch into a solo career,

King of Pop

following the fall of the popular boy band, One Direction, formed after auditioning in the X-Factor in 2010.

Prince Jackson said; “Harry Styles is an incredible artist. But the King of Pop was a moniker that really my dad earned in a time that the access to information and the access to popularity and fame wasn’t as ea-

Last of the Viking ships

BJORVIKA, still Oslo’s port district, was in continual use as the city’s principal harbour until four centuries ago.

The seabed is littered with the wrecks of boats that foundered from the 13th century onwards and

archaeologists initially assumed that a large section of timber excavated under a wharf built around 1300 was roughly the same age.

“But we saw that its shape di ered signi cantly from other nds in the same area,” Havard Hegdal from

the Norwegian Institute for Cultural Heritage Research (NIKU) told online magazine Sciencenorway.

Intrigued, they sent a fragment of wood for dating and learnt that it had belonged to a tree which began to grow in 1035 and was felled between 1087 and 1100.

“It was 200 years older than the wharf above it. And that’s a big mystery,” Hegdal said.

“If the dating is accurate, then we’re right at the end of the Viking Era.”

This is commonly accepted as ending on September 25, 1066 when Harold of England defeated Harald Hardrada of Norway in the Battle of Stamford Hill, a shortlived victory as he lost his own life in the Battle of Hastings on October 14.

Much of Bjorvika has received little attention from archaeologists until now, but they are increasingly called in as more discoveries are made during major developments in the area.

Harry Styles photoshoot.

Benjamin Ross and his mother, Felix Robinson.

Credit: Spotted Salford/fb

KING CHARLES III has conferred a royal title upon a rare golden goat breed connected to the island of Guernsey.

Known now as the Royal Golden Guernsey Goat, this title was awarded during the king’s visit to the island in the English Channel on Tuesday July 16, and it applies to the breed worldwide.

Rebecca Martin, the owner of the eight-year-old goat Summerville Tamsin, which was selected to represent the breed, expressed hope that the new title would help raise awareness.

Royal goat

During the ceremony, King Charles petted the goat and complimented its pale blonde coat.

The Royal Golden Guernsey Goat is listed as ‘at risk’ on the Rare Breeds Watchlist. Known for their friendly and docile nature, these goats also produce good milk.

Christopher Price, the chief executive of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, highlighted the significance of this recognition.

He noted that the royal honour acknowledges the breed’s historical importance and its contributions to biodiversity, environmental sustainability, and sustainable food production.

“These goats are selective in their grazing habits, which can lead to specific environmental benefits,” the chief executive stated.

“We are extremely grateful to His Majesty for his greatly valued support.”

Ronaldo invests

THE fact that Cristiano Ronaldo has moved to play in Saudi Arabia has ensured yet a further growth in his profile in the Middle East.

He has recently taken a 10 per cent stake in the company that owns luxury tableware brand Vista Alegre Atlantis and a 30 per cent stake in the Spanish subsidiary.

As Vista Alegre celebrates its founding in Portugal 200 years ago, so Ronaldo has agreed to become invol ved in a joint venture to promo te the Vista Alegre brand and re nowned Portuguese ceramics brand Bordallo Pinheiro in Asia and the Middle East.

The first bicentenary product to be launched is a 2024 calendar plate which has as its central design a duck perched on top of a football which carries the date 2024.

If Portugal had actually triumphed in the Euro 2024 finals, sales would have shot through the roof, but the 39-year-old is committed to promoting and investing in Portuguese products and through his CR7 company is either a partner or brand

Ambassador for a number of local companies.

Like one of the other greats of modern football, Lionel Messi, Ronaldo has investments in four boutique hotels and by the time he hangs up his football boots it is estimated he will have earned at least $1 billion (€920 million) during his playing career. With wise management of CR7 and ongoing sponsorship, that amount can only continue to grow on an annual basis.

RARE BREED: King Charles petted the goat at the ceremony.

Image: Royal UK

Ronaldo is a staunch supporter of Portuguese business.

Credit: Cristiano Ronaldo Facebook

THE ‘Sal de Música Fest 2024’ is set to take pla- ce in San Pedro Pinatar for third year. This music festival brings a unique concert expe rience to the heart of Mar Menor from August 9-14. This isn’t just any music festival; it’s a whole experience surroun ded by the beautiful Salinas landscape. Attendees will have plenty to do before and after the concerts in the local area. Whether you prefer the Medi terranean Sea or Mar Menor, there are mu seums to visit, water activities to try, and a lively nightlife scene at

Lo Pagan. There is a host of artists on the lineup jam-packed full of

of food trucks offers diverse cuisines. Wine tasting is also on the agenda, making it a true sensory delight.

The festival grounds feature two main stages, accessible areas, gastro and drinks zones, commercial stands, and several photobooths for capturing memories. With a strong focus on safety and convenience, there are designated security zones and ample restrooms.

This summer, choose San Pedro del Pinatar in Murcia’s Costa Calida for an unforgettable blend of music, culture, and entertainment.

COSTA CALIDA

Summer sounds Ladies Summer Ball

Cabo de Pop

THE seventh Cabo de Pop festival has unveiled its lineup and schedule for this year’s event, set to take place on August 16 and 17 at the Cabo de Palos lighthouse. Known for its blend of music, environmental initiatives, and sports activities, the festival promises a diverse programme for attendees.

Headlining the musical performances are bands like Perro, Aiko el grupo, Sofía, Pedriñanes 77, Pau from Marc, Los Yolos, Las Petunias, and Plataforma. Complementing the music acts, DJs such as Estrasubrgo 1518, Desaparezca, and Costalero Dj will keep the energy flowing between sets.

Beyond music, Cabo de Pop will feature food trucks, an artisan market, workshops, and family-friendly activities. This year’s theme focuses on the Mar Menor, with educational talks and environmental awareness activities planned throughout

the festival. Sports fans can enjoy activities like paddle surfing, sailing, diving, kayaking, and snorkelling.

In collaboration with the Association of Naturalists of the Southeast (ANSE), the festival offers outdoor activities aimed at understanding and preserving the Mar Menor lagoon. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the Cabo de Palos lighthouse, discounted access to local attractions, and a great foodie scene at the concert area’s food trucks.

Admission remains free, subject to venue capacity. For more details and activity reservations, visit www.cabodepop. com.

THE Camposol Clubhouse will host its annual Ladies Summer Ball on Thursday, July 30, starting at 1pm. The event will feature music by Edward B Williams and offer guests a three-course meal for €22.50. Attendees can look forward to an afternoon of fine dining and enjoyable entertainment.

A charity raffle will be held in su-

pport of Age Concern, adding an element of goodwill to the festive occasion. For those interested in attending, menu options and bookings are available by contacting 0044 7944 511101.

This event promises to be a delightful gathering, combining great food, live music, and a chance to contribute to a worthy cause.

Enjoying the vibes

DESTINATION Zambuca, located in Puerto de Mazarron, invites locals and tourists to enjoy their renowned chiringuito (beach bar). Guests can try a variety of cocktails, refreshing drinks, and delectable food. The venue is perfect for those looking to relax with family and friends, offering stunning views

and an ideal spot for capturing memorable photos on their terrace.

On Friday, July 26, the eight-piece band Soulfully Yours will be performing a mix of soul, disco, and funk.

The event, featuring Costa Calida Radio’s DJ Damien, starts at 8pm. Tickets are priced at a flat rate of €10 and can be purchased directly from the chiringuito, CCI Radio, or The Clover at Condado de Alhama.

Image: Shutterstock/ Artie Medvedev

Cruise tax

LAST year, Spain received a record 85.1 million international tourists.

This summer, the figures continue to soar, causing protests in major cities like Barcelona.

The city’s mayor, Jaume Collboni is taking new measures to battle the crisis.

The mayor shared his plans to raise the tourist tax for cruise passengers who visit Barcelona for less than 12 hours.

Collboni stated to the Press; “Barcelona is a city that’s open to visitors and tourism is an important sector of its economy. That said, I’m determined to tackle the consequences that mass tourism is having for the city. We’re going to substantially raise the tax for people on cruise stopovers.”

He explained; “When it comes to stopover cruise passengers - less than 12 hours - you get an intensive use of public space without any benefit to the city and you get a feeling of occupation and saturation. We want tourism that respects its destination.”

Now, worth €7, the mayor didn’t clarify by how much the tax will be raised, saying only that studies had already been commissioned.

He added that the rise aims not to prevent cruise visitors, but to ensure they generate revenue to be invested in the city.

Time to buy

DURING the week of July 15-21, the Euribor rate was recorded as at its lowest level this year. Experts stated that further drops are expected, making it an attractive time to purchase property in Spain.

In June 2024, Euribor marked an average rate of 3.65 per cent with the indicator starting the year at 3.609 per cent, rising to 3.671 per cent in February and 3.718 per cent in March. Since then it has decreased, falling to 3.703 per cent in April and 3.680 per cent in May.

In June, the European Central Bank cut interest rates for the rst time since March 2016; the rate fell by 0.25 points to stand at 4,.25 per cent. If Euribor closes July at 3.57 per cent, the prices of variable-rate mortgages reviewed annually, would become a lot cheaper. In July last year, the rate was at 4.249 per cent.

According to the COAPI (General Council of the O cial Associations of Real Estate Agents of Spain), the decrease in mortgages mirrors the drop in property sales. Yet, the COAPI stated to be optimistic; “Buyers paid an average interest of 3.46 per cent in January of this year, while today they

obtain nancing at 3.25 per cent.

“For this reason, there will be a stabilisation of the gures with increases that will favour a positive end to the year.”

The director of Pilos.com Studies stated that the granting of mortgages has nevertheless decreased, due to the

drop in transactions and the irregular dynamics of the market.

However, he also said to anticipate a “recovery” compared to last year, driven by lower interest rates.

Spain continues to be among the countries with the most a ordable mortgages in Europe.

This is an attractive time to purchase property in Spain.

Catherine McGeer

IF you nd yourself in Copenhagen and are looking for a unique adventure, consider going on a troll hunt. This isn’t your typical fairy tale trolls-under-bridges scenario. Instead, you’ll be seeking out enchanting wooden troll sculptures crafted by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. Dambo, a modern-day wood wizard, uses recycled materials to create these giants, promoting sustainability through his art. His trolls are scattered around Copenhagen in parks, forests, and lakes, each with its own story and personality.

Hunting for these trolls is like taking part in a treasure hunt. With a map and a sense of adventure, you can discover these hidden giants in beautiful natural settings. Popular trolls include Teddy Friendly, who welcomes visitors with an enormous hand, and Hill Top Trine, who o ers stunning views from her perch. Little Tilde, with her curious eyes, watches over a tranquil lake.

Troll hunting

Troll hunting is perfect for families, encouraging kids to explore nature and learn about recycling. The thrill of nding a troll in its secret spot is a memorable experience for all ages. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a picnic, as many troll locations make great lunch spots. Don’t forget your camera to capture these photogenic trolls!

Choo-choo cuisine

IN celebration of the upcoming National Eisteddfod in August, trains in Wales will feature a new limited edition menu showcasing traditional Welsh produce, including dishes made with seaweed.

The National Eisteddfod, an annual festival celebrating Welsh culture, is held in a di erent location across the country each year.

This year, it will take place in Rhondda Cynon Taf from August 3 to 10.

While these o erings will be exclusive to rst-class trains, standard class passengers will also get a taste of the festival with the ‘Eisteddfod burger’.

Piers Croft, the on-board director at Transport for Wales, stated that the menu provides diners with a chance to “experience the avour of the Eisteddfod.”

He described it as a unique opportunity to celebrate Welsh heritage through a delicious and authentic meal.

To start your adventure, visit Thomas Dambo’s

website (thomas dambo.com) for maps and clues. Troll hunting in Copenhagen is more than just an activity; it’s a delightful experience that combines art, nature, and a touch of magic.

Transport for Wales announced that passengers on select rail services will soon have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of Welsh foods.

The menu includes laverbread (a dish made from edible seaweed) and bacon, Caerphilly chicken supreme, and glazed bara brith.

Lowri Joyce, the Welsh language strategic lead at Transport for Wales, expressed the company’s intention to honour the Welsh language and culture.

She encouraged travellers heading to the Maes (the site of the Eisteddfod) to consider sustainable travel options and to sample the special menu if possible.

€5,000

AN Italian journalist, Giulia Cortese has been ordered to pay €5,000 over social media posts mocking Giorgia Meloni’s height.

Cortese was also handed a suspended ne of €1,200, issued for ‘body shaming’, as ruled by a judge. Meloni’s lawyer said she would donate any money she received to charity.

The controversial posts included an arti cially edited photo of Giorgia Meloni, standing in front of a framed photo of an Italian dictator, Benito Mussolini. Italy’s PM had come across the post and wrote on Facebook that the ‘falsi ed photo’ was of ‘unique gravity’ and that she would take legal action.

Cortese then posted on X; “You don’t scare me, Giorgia Meloni. Af-

Fine

ter all, you’re only 1.2 metres tall. I can’t even see you.” The PM then took legal action. Giorgia Meloni’s height is reported in Italian media to be 1.63m.

After receiving thenes, Giulia Cortese made another post on X, commenting that the Italian government has a “serious problem with freedom of expression and journalistic dissent.” She noted; “This country seems to get close to Orban’s Hungary: these are bad times for independent journalists and opinion leaders. Let’s hope for better days ahead.”

Giorgia Meloni’s ne raised a global discussion about the ne line between freedom of the press and online harassment. With freedom of the press, comes responsibility and while personal attacks are never justi ed, there is a growing concern for the government’s ltration of political criticism in the EU.

Copenhagen’s hidden trolls.

Image: thomasdambo.com

Giorgia Meloni, Italy’s PM.

Credit: Giorgia Meloni, Facebook

Outlook gloomy

BUSINESS has been slow this year for the beach bars along the Ostend coast owing to the disappointing weather. Danny Van den Broucke, who owns four beach bars, said he will be closing one of them when the season ends in October, not only due to the wet weather, but also the high rents that city hall charges.

Audi blow

GERMAN carmaker Audi intends to close its Brussels plant now that global demand for high-end electric vehicles is waning. The Belgian government is in talks with Audi in a bid to save jobs after the Volkswagen subsidiary announced that with production falling to 6,000 this year, it planned to close the unviable factory in 2025.

EURO PRESS

IRELAND

Axes to grind

THE National Museum of Ireland in Dublin appealed to members of the public for information regarding two Early Bronze Age axe heads (2150-2000 BC) posted anonymously to the museum in June. Knowing their original location was crucial for archaeological context, the museum said.

UNEXPECTED PRESENT: Two priceless axeheads sent anonymously to Irish museum.

SWEDEN

Prison visitors

AS the number of under-16s remanded while awaiting trial in Swedish jails has increased, the Prison and Probation Service intends to hire more teachers and counsellors to provide educational support. Schooling is compulsory until the age of 16 and young people’s education should be prioritised, the authorities said.

No tax

THE Visita association which represents Sweden’s hospitality industry warned that allowing municipalities to introduce a tourist tax to avoid overtourism would adversely affect their businesses. “We are already heavily taxed and it would be a real burden to receive additional taxes,” Visita’s Policy chief Anna Wallen said.

GERMANY FRANCE

Strike averted

GROUND staff at Paris airport cancelled the strike that would have caused travel chaos ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games which begin on July 26. The airport workers reached agreement with government-controlled Aeroports de Paris SA (ADP) and accepted a deal on bonuses, working hours and organisation.

Be lazy

PSYCHOANALYST, economist and writer Corinne Maier told Le Monde that she wrote her latest book - Me First! Manifesto for Female Selfishness - to denounce an injustice. “Unlike men, women don’t have the right to be selfish,” Maier maintained. “For men, selfishness is very much tolerated, even rewarded.”

FINLAND NORWAY

Rough ride

TWO tourists who drove across the tundra and a protected area in Longyearbyen on the Svalbard archipelago inside the Arctic Circle were each fined 20,000 kroner (€1,702) for infringing the Cultural Heritage Act. They also broke a separate law that bars all motor traffic from driving across unpaved, open countryside.

ID erased

OLESYA KRIVTSOVA, a Russian activist living in Kirkenes, only discovered that her identity document had been cancelled when she visiting the Russian consulate to renew her international passport. Placed under house arrest in January 2023, she managed to flee Russia in March 2023 despite her electronic tagging device.

New arrivals

THIS summer saw new arrivals at Helsinki’s Korkeasaari Zoo after resident animals produced musk oxen, Pallas cat kittens, forest reindeer and a bearded vulture chick.bThe musk oxen calves were the first to be born there since the early 2000s while the vulture, which hatched in the spring, has been relocated to Germany.

On your way

FIGHTER jets from Finland and Sweden on a joint Nato mission intercepted and redirected two Russian fighter aircraft over the Baltic Sea’s international waters. They had taken off from Kaliningrad and were heading towards mainland Russia but had no flight plan and were not in contact with civilian air traffic.

Plot confirmed

PLANS to assassinate Armin Papperger, the chief executive of Germany’s principal arms manufacturer Rheinmetal, earlier this year were neutralised by the US and German authorities, according to reports in the US media. The plot was retaliation for Rheinmetal’s arms shipments to Ukraine, Intelligence sources said.

Mind the gap

AFTER months of negotiations, Germany’s Cabinet has approved the coalition government’s 2025 Budget despite a €17 billion gap between revenue and spending. Finance minister Christian Lindner explained to the media that the government was at present considering several “innovative ways” of covering the shortfall.

ITALY

BELGIUM NETHERLANDS

Deep waters

LUIGI BRUGNARO, Venice mayor, is under investigation and Transport councillor Renato Boraso has been remanded as police probe a corruption case. They and seven others under house arrest are thought to be linked to the sale of the city’s Pili area adjoining the Lagoon, to Singapore businessman Chiat Kwong Ching.

‘Slavery’ case

A POLICE operation freed 33 Indian nationals employed as farm labourers who after paying €17,000 for jobs and work permits had to work 10-hour days, seven days a week for €4. They were located when police investigated the death of an Indian worker whose arm was severed and legs crushed in a work-related accident.

DENMARK PORTUGAL

Socials surfeit

A REPORT from the Justitia thinktank concluded that politicians’ overuse of social media increasingly ate into the time they spent on legislative work and was affecting Denmark’s lawmaking system. An unnamed MP told Justitia that he believed “very few actually did what they were supposed to be doing.”

Saving water

THE Greater Copenhagen region’s Environmental committee is exploring the possibility of using treated groundwater for most purposes apart from drinking water in some areas, committee chair Line Ervolder told the media. “We don’t have endless water resources and need to rethink our consumption,” she said.

Booting up

THE town of Monchique hopes to enter the Guinness Book of Records with the ‘world’s biggest crocheted boot’ which has been created by the Espiral de Vontades association. The bootee styled exactly like a baby’s required more than three tons of wool and practically filled the football pitch where it was put on show.

Keeping tabs

ACCORDING to official figures, 1,450 people over the age of 65 have been reported missing over the last six years. Of these 115 were never found and the PSP police has now introduced a scheme involving a simple bracelet bearing a number which can help to identify an elderly, disorientated person.

Watch it

KALLE SLAAP, a watchmaker from Grootschmermer, hopes to restore the Rolex that UK farmer James Steel, now 95, lost when the strap broke in the early 70s. Steele assumed it had been eaten by a cow but after it was recently discovered by a metal detectorist, Slaap has offered to repair the Air King free of charge.

Fair shares

TWO female judges and the Clara Wichmann feminist group lodged a formal complaint with the Netherlands Human Rights Institute owing to the lower salaries paid to female judges and public prosecutors. As yet, the state has failed to reply to an ultimatum filed by a lawyer acting pro bono for the Clara Wichmann group.

Your

VOICE

BUYING A HOME IS OUT OF REACH OF MANY SPANISH RESIDENTS.

Spain: An affordable lifestyle?

Our readers have their say:

SPAIN has long been a popular destination for expats seeking a more affordable lifestyle. However, recent trends suggest a changing picture. While the country continues to offer many positives, the reality for many is becoming increasingly complex.

A key issue highlighted by residents is the challenge of finding long-term rental accommodation. Susan Bee , from Andalucia, describes the struggle of facing continuous relocations due to the scarcity of long-term rentals - “We are renting in Andalucia and are going back to the UK. In our mid 50s not having resources to buy our own house and having to continuously move because we can’t get long term rentals is becoming too much.”

This problem is compounded by rising property prices, making homeownership a distant dream for many.

Helen van Lakum , points to recent government efforts to address the housing crisis - “I thought Spain had put in new stricter laws on ownership and rentals a few months ago, I know Alcalde of Valencia closed down thousands of illegal BnBs and it didn’t harm the economy. The days of property speculation are fading fast, prices are too high and contracts too short for locals.”

While measures such as cracking down on illegal short-term rentals have been implemented, the overall impact on affordability remains to

be seen.

John Carr offers a historical perspective, comparing the housing situation in Spain to the UK. He highlights the importance of tenant protection laws and how their absence can deter landlords from offering long-term rentals. This issue appears to be a common thread in both countries, impacting the rental market significantly - “With the housing act 1968, the UK’s Labour government introduced laws to protect tenants. My mother-in-law who used to let a couple of rooms stopped doing so because of the lack of her rights.

“My son stopped letting an apartment here in Spain about 12 years ago for the same reason. He’d let long term for many years and had experienced his share of problems with tenants. He still owns the property which has significantly increased in value.”

Jenny Church sees a solution - “If they stopped giving out tourist licences for rentals and changed the laws for evicting long term tenants not paying their rent, more owners would rent out their properties long term.”

While Spain undoubtedly retains its appeal, the dream of an affordable lifestyle is becoming increasingly elusive for many. The combination of rising property prices, limited rental options, and a lack of tenant protection is creating a perfect storm for potential residents.

Credit: Jakub Pabis

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Inching up

SUPERMARKET shoppers are returning to Waitrose for the first time since 2022 as the cost-of-living crisis begins to ease with sales rising 3.3 per cent in the 12 weeks ending July 7, market researchers Kantar said. The chain owned by John Lewis now has a 4.5 per cent market share, compared with 4.4 per cent a year ago.

Off the list

CANADIAN fund Brookfield Capital Partners and the Grifols family’s proposed joint takeover to delist the blood plasma pharmaceuticals company has resulted in a price rise for shares. These now hover at around €10 for the first time since they plummeted to €6.90 following an attack by short-seller Gotham City.

Real deal

GOLDMAN SACHS is boosting bankers’ pay, including bonuses, by 17 per cent after second-quarter profits more than doubled following an increase in deal-making. This will inevitably bring much larger rewards for Goldman’s 6,000 employees in the UK who are no longer affected by the previous bonus cap.

Naturgy fine

TWO companies belonging to Spanish multinational Naturgy were fined $14 million (€12.8 million) for their deficient electricity distribution in Panama. This was the “highest, most historic fine” yet imposed for a flawed service, Zelmar Rodriguez who heads Panama’s National Public Services Authority (ASEP), said.

Off the hook

CHARLIE STAYT, the BBC

Breakfaster presenter agreed to settle an unpaid tax bill of about £190,000 (€225,261) to avert imminent bankruptcy. HMRC had filed a bankruptcy petition against Stayt and his wife, Anne, which it withdrew after they reduced the amount of the debt and agreed to pay the remainder.

STAT OF WEEK

€1.2 billion

in funding has been guaranteed by the state-participated Export Credit Insurance Company (Cesce) to ensure that Siemens Gamesa can complete its orders for wind turbines.

A promise to deliver Out of fashion

ROYAL MAIL’S probable new owner accepts the postal service’s commitment to delivering UK letters six days a week.

Talking exclusively to the BBC, Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky emphasised that he “completely excluded” making any change to the existing Universal Service Obligation (USO) requirement.

Kretinsky already has a 27.6 per cent holding in Royal Mail’s parent company International Distribution Services (IDS) and he has now put in a a £3.6 billion (€4.3 billion) offer for the remainder. Taking assumed debts into consideration, the operation will be worth £5 billion (€5.9 billion) in all.

The IDS board has now accepted Kretinsky’s offer and the shareholders are expected to approve the deal although the government

FOUR months ago Hungarian consortium Ganz Mavag launched a takeover offer for all Talgo shares at a premium price of €5 per share.

The government classes the Spanish train manufacturer as a “strategic asset” and took an un favourable view of the public offer from the outset, suspecting that the bid could be backed by Rus sian funding.

Since then, Madrid has sou ght an alternative, which now appears to have materialised in the shape of a ‘business combination and industrial merger’ offer from the Czech company Skoda Trans-

will have the last word on whether or not this nationally important transaction can go ahead. In a BBC exclusive, Kretinsky re-

vealed that he was ready to share profits with Royal Mail’s 150,000 employees but was less keen on the unions’ suggestion that workers should have a stake in the company.

The USO could prove another obstacle for both government and unions.

Ninety-two per cent of first class mail was arriving punctually 10 years ago, the Office of Communications (Ofcom) regulator announced. By 2023 when Royal Mail was fined £5.6 million (€6.6 million) for failing to meet delivery targets, this had dwindled to 74 per cent.

Despite Kretinsky’s assertion that Royal Mail would continue delivering six days a week “as long as I’m alive” his formal offer in fact puts in writing that he will honour the USO for five years.

On a different

Wine selloff Prime sites

LLOYDS BANKING

GROUP will turn disused office sites into social housing.

The bank is launching the scheme in Pudsey (West Yorkshire) but announced that it was also reviewing possible sites elsewhere in the UK that could be suitable for similar projects.

Lloyds said it would sell the Pudsey site to a local housing group with the understanding that 80 new homes will be rented out at around half the going rate.

PERNOD RICARD is selling its international wine brands as it shifts its focus to spirits and Champagne.

The French company’s portfolio of wines produced in Spain, Australia and New Zealand will now belong to Australian Wine Holdco, a consortium of international institutional investors which is already the owner of Australia-based Accolade Wines.

The deal should be completed by the second half of 2025 and in Spain will affect the Campo Viejo, Ysios, Tarsus and Azpilicueta bodegas.

Pernod Ricard, a rival to the UK’s Diageo, did not reveal how much it would make from the sale, but said that between them the bodegas produced an annual 10 million cases of wine.

track

portation, which has no links to the carmaker.

According to Reuters, Talgo has asked Skoda for “detailed information” which would help it to make comparisons with Ganz-Mavag’s €619 million.

Spanish sources close to the operation said to financial daily Cinco Dias that CriteriaCaixa, the La Caixa Foundation’s investment company, is likely to plays an important part in the deal, albeit as a minority partner.

No change

THE likelihood of an interest rate cut receded after the UK inflation rate remained unchanged at 2 per cent in June.

A hoped-for reduction thanks to lower prices for clothes and cheaper second-hand cars was foiled by a rise of almost 9 per cent in the price of hotels attributed to the ‘Taylor Swift effect’ on accommodation prices during the singer’s series of concerts.

Based on the June figures from the Office for National Statistics, the next Bank of England meeting on August 1 was unlikely to announce reduction in the current 5.25 per cent bank rate the City said.

BURBERRY has suspended its dividend, replaced its chief executive, and issued its second profit warning this year.

‘Disappointing’ revenue fell 20 per cent during the second quarter that ended on June 29 and shares fell by 16 per cent at close of trading on Monday July 15.

Chief executive Jonathan Akeroyd left the company ‘with immediate effect and by mutual agreement’ the same day, while Burberry replaced him with Joshua Schulman, former chief executive of US brand Coach who received a £9.2 million (€10.9 million) ‘golden hello’.

SPANISH fashion chain Mango reported half-year sales of €1.54 billion, a 6.3 per cent increase on the same period in 2023.

Victoria Beckham’s capsule collection helped to boost womenswear sales by 4 per cent, men’s clothing jumped 21 per cent during the same period with an 11 per cent increase for children’s and teenagers’ lines.

The first-half figures arrived after the group closed 2023 with record sales of €172 million, compared with €81 million in 2022 with revenues expected to top €3.36 billion by 2026.

WORKPLACE

accidents caused by high temperatures rose by 24 per cent in Spain in 2023. Independent research by the UGT union found that 199 people had to take time off work owing to heatstroke, 27 per cent up on 2022. Accidents resulting from exposure to extreme heat, light and radiation increased by 18 per cent to 105.

The report predicted that these types of accidents would inevitably intensify and warned that the official figures probably did not include all incidents.

NO CHANGE: Royal Mail’s future owner will honour delivery schedule.

Photo credit: Flickr/Steve 1

Photo credit: CC/Falk2

SKODA TRANSPORTATION: Rivalling Ganz Mavag in Talgo takeover.

Tram lines

THE Stadler plant in Albuixech (Valencia) will build the 504 trams that the Swiss company has been contracted to provide for a consortium of German and Austrian railway companies. A €45 million subsidy from the Valencian Community’s regional government was instrumental in the decision, which will provide nine years of stable employment for the factory’s 2,200 staff.

Rescue op

A CONSORTIUM led by British millionaire, ‘Cosmetics King’ Mike Jatania, has agreed to buy The Body Shop out of administration. No financial details were revealed but the administrators have agreed to an ‘exclusivity agreement’ following a ‘competitive bidding process’.

A new suitor

ANOTHER bidder, CVC Capital Partners, has entered The Telegraph auction.

The newspaper has been ownerless since June 2023 after Lloyds bank seized The Telegraph and The Spectator as part-payment against the Barclay family’s £1.16 billion (€1.38 billion) debts.

These were paid by RedBird IMI, an investment fund linked to the rulers of the United Arab Emirates,

but the previous government hastily brought in legislation aimed specifica-

lly at preventing Redbird IMI from taking over the publications.

A family affair

HORTENSIA HERRERA, the wife of Mercadona founder Juan Roig, received €59.5 million in Mercadona dividends last year. Herrera’s 27.71 per cent holding makes her the supermarket chain’s second most-important shareholder, but over the years she has also built up a personal fortune via Herrecha Inversiones, Investments include the recently-acquired 30 per cent of made-to-measure

furniture company Grupo Malasa whose principal client is the Inditex clothing giant.

Although Herrera is Herrecha’s sole shareholder, her four daughters - Hortensia, Carolina, Juana Clara and Desamparados are on the board.

According to annual accounts submitted to the Registro Mercantil, Roig’s wife has earned €464 million in Mercadona dividends over the last 10 years.

Private equity firm CVC, which manages £164 billion (€195.47 billion) and has a holding in Premiership Rugby and the Six Nations, is now preparing for talks, City sources quoted by the Telegraph revealed.

Negotiations were by no means finalised and there was no guarantee that CVC was going to make a firm offer, they stressed, although this was the second time that CVC had shown an interest in the Telegraph

In 2004, CVC had discussed the possibility of backing Daily Mail owner, Lord Rothermere’s bid for the newspaper, which instead was acquired by the Barclays.

This time round Rothermere has pulled out.

Meanwhile, should CVC go ahead, the fund is expected to pay below the £510 million (€608.2 million) Redbird IMI paid in December 2023.

New role

HSBC’S Finance chief Georges Elhedery, appointed chief executive following the unexpected exit of Noel Quinn for personal reason, takes up his new role in September. In a nod to Asian investors who are exerting pressure on Europe’s biggest lender to switch its headquarters to China, Elhedery will be the bank’s first Mandarin-speaking chief executive.

Record profit

BANKINTER beat its own record with pretax profits of €715.4 million during the first six months of 2024, 14.4 per cent higher than in 2023. The bank’s net profit of €473 million was 13.3 per cent up on the same period last year.

Photo credit: CC/Ethan Doyle White

DAILY TELEGRAPH: The newspaper’s original Fleet Street home.

Give us all a break

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

HERE they go again. Emerging from their cosseted bolt holes, the conspiracy theory time wasters are insisting that the Trump attack was not an attempted assassination at all, but a plot to help him win the approaching presidential election.

They even managed to have their views featured in one of the main UK dailies.’ It wasn’t a bullet’ they squawk, ‘it was a phial which he broke on his ear to release the blood’. What a load of codswallop.

Let’s just briefly run these idiotic theories by and sling them all into the bin where they belong.

To carry out a conspiracy of this magnitude the plotters had to find a sham assassin, one prepared to risk being shot dead. Inveigle most of Trump’s highly paid secret service body guards into the scheme plus the local police. Somehow shoot three spectators, killing one, almost fatally injuring two more and conspiring with the local hospital doctors and

nurses to cover the fact that he wasn’t injured at all. Give us all a break. Life really is too short to waste it on complete twaddle. Mind you there is one thing that will assuredly come out of it; barring a catastrophe Trump will undoubtedly be the next American President. But then I always said he would be didn’t I?

If you really want to raise a conspiracy theory, concentrate on Biden’s team who decided that to cover all his disastrous mistakes, gaffes and dementia lapses they would announce to the world he had acquired Covid. Bye Bye Biden.

Do you really think humanity has any chance at all with that lot of numbskulls at the helm?

Just heard the most deplorable story from a lady friend in the UK. She manages the local Co-op and was telling me how difficult it was to stop the shoplifters.

She said they actually fill their bags and simply walk out of the store laughing at the security. But that was by no means the most adverse story she had to impart.

Apparently her sister was also the manageress of another local branch.

Realising she was not allowed to call the police for the theft of under £200 worth of goods she decided to tackle one of these toe rags on her own, indulging in a tug of war with one endeavouring to leave her store with his bag of swag. Eventually the man managed to pull free and exit with the loot. However this was by no means the end of the matter.

No doubt on the advice of one of the dubious lawyers, who now abound in the UK, the man decided to sue the company for the ‘whiplash’ he contracted during the ‘struggle’. The result?

The man won his case and received £5,000 compensation from the Coop.

To top it all, the poor manageress, merely trying to do her job, was actually sacked by the company. Nothing but a pure disgrace; encouraged by the woke run authorities. And now the British people are under a Labour government. Believe meyou really ain’t seen nothing yet!

Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

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

INTERVIEW

Speaking European Alisa Kuzoyatova

Alisa moved from Poland to Spain 10 years ago and has felt at home in Costa Blanca ever since.

“IT was here that I gave bir th to my son, who is now three years old. Here, where he went to kindergarten. Now, he’s already bilingual and has Spanish friends,” Alisa shared.

“So much of the best in my life happened in Spain that I will always love this country.”

Alisa works as an event organiser, often hosting parties for children. She shared that living here has taught her just how strong an international community can get; “As I began working, I started meeting people my age and children from all over the world. To my sur -

Alisa Kuzoyatova, Polish in Spain.

prise, we all had so much in common. And I notice that my son doesn’t see any cultural or language barriers; it’s such a refreshing feeling.”

Alisa shared that alongside the amazing weather, what she loves about Spain is “security.

“Here in Costa Blanca, I feel safe. As a woman and as a mother, I don’t feel under threat like I would in some other countries.”

She added that although the process of moving was difficult, it was “absolutely worth it.”

Asylum seeker’s bikes

MANY asylum seekers who entered Finland via its eastern border with Russia did so riding bicycles which were then left at the point of entry.

Originally, Finnish customs planned to auction the bicycles in May of this year but that was postponed and now, on July 20 approximately 250 bicycles of different styles and makes were put up for auction in Kansankentura.

The rules governing the auction were very strict with Customs not prepared to guarantee the condition, quality, safety, or suitability of the bicycles for their original use, as all sales were ‘as found’.

Buyers were required to pay 24 per cent VAT on the cost of the bicycles (although companies who could prove they were purchased for business use could later reclaim the tax paid.)

All sales were final but the purchase price had to be paid within one hour of the auction ending and removed by 6pm of the same day otherwise the ownership would revert to the Finnish State and no refund would be made.

According to the Finnish Customs office, this auction presented a unique opportunity for buyers to acquire bicycles at potentially reduced prices while also helping Customs clear seized items efficiently.

EES delayed again

THE anticipated launch date for the new Entry-Exit System (EES), intended to streamline the passport control process, has been rescheduled to November 10.

The reasons for this postponement have not been officially disclosed, but it is widely believed to be a response to pressure from member states that require more time to prepare for the implementation.

Prior to the confirmed delay, several airports had expressed concerns about being ready for an October launch date. Smaller airports, in particular, are struggling with setting up the divides needed for the registration of non-EU travellers.

The original launch date was supposed to be in 2021, and the last pushback came at the request of France, who were concerned about the impact it would have on the Sum-

EES system further delayed until November.

mer Olympics.

The good news is that amid fears of extreme queue rises, the EES system will now be launched in conjunction with an app which aims to alleviate this concern. The app will enable data pre-registration so that most procedures for travelling under the new system can be carried out online. However, to adequately assess its effectiveness, the app must be tested

with a host of end-users and in multiple languages. While officials from the European Union are confident that the app will be fully operational in time, representatives from the UK remain unconvinced.

According to Nichola Mallon of trade body logistics, the app will not be ready before the summer of 2025, as the EU does not have time to test fully before October.

Just some of the bicycles on offer.

The only guest Tax the rich

A TRAVEL influencer shared a “surreal” experience of staying at an “abandoned” hotel in Italy, that didn’t have a single staff member and only a handful of guests.

Known as Universal Corner on TikTok, a woman shared her travel experience with her 59,000 followers in Cagliari, on the island of Sardinia. She shared a video, which has been viewed more than 73,000 times, showing an old-fashioned, completely empty hotel.

The woman said she was the only guest and there were no staff. She said upon her arrival she met someone who han ded her a key and said that “everything will be closed.” She didn’t belie ve it until she saw it her self; “There is a restau rant downstairs which is closed. The hotel is tota lly empty.”

She then revealed;

“There were no guests in the hotel and suddenly a car arrives and there are two elderly foreigners, I think from Croatia. As

things, he said the new guests could have room 109, which was open and I should accompany them to their room.”

The video sparked a discussion about Italy’s hotels; “Hotels in Italy are usually like that,” said one TikTok user. Another said that “they would be horrified.”

Others said “Now you understand why it was

HOME to an estimated 110 billionaires and even more multi-millionaires, Switzerland is in danger of losing a large part of its population. The ultra-rich are preparing to flee the country in fear of a new tax proposal.

The JUSO (The Socialist Youth), under the Social Democratic Party, are determined to impose a law for a 50 per cent inheritance tax on all residents whose assets exceed 50 million francs (€7 million).

The Vice President of JUSO, Melanie Rufi stated to the Press that the rich should be held “responsible” for climate change, as they “contribute enormously to the destruction of the climate through their investments and consumer beha-

that the tax would generate six billion francs (€914,694,103) in income for both the government and Swiss residents. While the left of the Swiss parliament is fully in support of the initiative, MPs from other parties are concerned about the consequences on the local economy. To become the law, the initiative has to go through numerous stages. Initially, a parliamentary consultation and recommendation will be held, which are likely to last at least until the year 2025. Therefore, the decision will not be made until 2026.

Despite this, many of the Swiss wealthy are already moving abroad, as Norwegians who have fled to Switzerland in fear of their country’s

Empty hotel reception in Sardinia.

Swiss aeroplane.

Credit: Riik@mctr, Flickr

Game, set and match

MIKE SENKER IN MY

THERE was a computer outage. No big deal you say, it will soon get sorted. Well I’m telling you it’s a very big deal. Let me tell you why. On July 19 there was a faulty update. Just think how many updates you do every day. It doesn’t matter whose fault it was, it happened. I have never heard of Crowd Strike Falcon. It sounds like a B movie title. Apparently it’s a cyber security platform and that messed something up at Microsoft and that in turn triggered the blue screen of death, which most computer users know means you are in real doggy do do! It affected 8.5 million users including, and this is why it’s a really big deal, the aviation industry - flights were cancelled all over the world - financial institutions, cash machines, ability to do transfers and healthcare.

The UK is still reporting problems within the NHS appointments etc. Media and entertainment, retail and services like Starbucks. Imagine not being able to get your overpriced poncy coffee - the list goes on. To me it shows how vulnerable we are.

There are hackers out there that can do whatever they like and if a cyber security firm can cause so many problems by getting a line of programming wrong unintentionally, just think how bad it could be when some spotty kid wants to have some ‘fun’ or hold the world to ransom. Every time this happens I know that very soon we will wake up and nothing will work. Then what?

I have an ongoing problem with restaurants that serve the 220cl coca cola instead of the full size 330cl bottle or can. It’s just another way of ripping us off and I want everyone to complain when they get the soft drink of their choice in this mixer bottle size. But there was a nice little incident the other night. I was in a beach bar with friends and I wanted a coke zero in a can but they only had small bottles. ‘But when I’m on the beach you give me a can as no glass is allowed.’ ‘Yes’, they say, ‘but you are in the restaurant now’. So I got up and walked the five steps to the beach and then said to her, ‘Can I have a coke zero please?’ She smiled and got me a coke zero in a can and put it on the table with the other drinks. Game, set and match this time for Mr Grumpy.

Email: mikesenker@gmail.com

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

FROM COAST TO COAST

Feeling too hot to handle?

LET’S chat about the weather; it might help us both cool down.

Thinking of moving to Jupiter? I’ve got a few spots left. Who’s in?

In my hunt for a new home among the stars, I stumbled upon Exo-Venus, an Earth-like planet just 42 light-years away. Turns out, it’s a no-go - average temperature? A scorching 42 degrees.

Speaking of cosmic issues, I’d like to share one of my favourite jokes:

“There were three people: A Russian, an American, and a blonde. They were having a nice chat together. Then, the Russian said: ‘We were the first ones in space.’ Then the American chimed in: ‘We were the first ones on the moon.’ The blonde added: ‘Well, that’s nothing! We’re gonna be the first ones on the sun!’ The Russian and the American burst out laughing and said: ‘You can’t go to the sun! It’s too hot, you’ll burn up!’ The blonde replied: ‘We know that, we’re not that silly! We’ll go at night!’”

Back on Earth, I’m left to grumble about the blazing summer in southern Spain. The more I vent, the better I feel.

For some of us (like myself), summer has become a personal sauna. I’ve got love handles to spare, but why do I sweat in all the wrong places and never where I should, like the beer belly?

But hey, enough about me. Americans love a good weather chat too. Why wouldn’t we? We’ve got it all: Northwest Coastal, High Plains, Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, South, and Southwest

- seven climate zones to brag about. Scientists even pinpoint nine consistent weather regions across the contiguous United States.

I hail from the desert near Death Valley, where temps hit a blistering 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54.44 Celsius). Parts of Nevada and California? Almost too hot to handle, unless you’re from the Southwest, where wearing shorts and boots together in a heatwave is no sweat.

Ever heard of Cordoba, Spain’s hottest province? Then there’s the ‘Pan of Andalucia’ - Écija, proud bearer of the title ‘La sartén de Andalucia’. Andújar completes this trifecta of heat, where frying an egg on the street is not just a joke - it’s possible.

Temperatures here have hit a sizzling 46 degrees Celsius in the last two decades, courtesy of AEMET.

Last year was brutal. I recall neighbours sneaking out at midnight to crank the AC in their cars - a luxury at home can’t live without.

How did I survive? Well, no AC meant cutting back on alcohol, calories, and taking ice-cold showers. Closing curtains, using kitchen fans, and switching to low-energy bulbs helped too. But let’s face it, those ultra-cooling blankets, mattress gel pads, and neck fans are smarter solutions. And if all else fails? Crank up the AC!

Wherever you go, always bring the weather with you - or as they say, “Al mal tiempo, buena cara!”

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

BY: LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA

VIEWS OF A GRUMPY OLD MAN

OPINION

Don’t feed the wolves

PART of the Den Treek estate in Leusden has been closed after a small girl was bitten during a school outing.

The 200 hectares of countryside are privately owned but open to the public and Leusden Town Hall, together with Utrecht’s provincial authorities, decided one section until August 15 to prevent more incidents.

The child suffered a warning nip but in early July a miniature poodle on a lead was bitten and dragged away by a wolf and has not been seen since.

A pair of wolves with cubs live on the estate and the Utrecht authorities said that safeguarding its offspring had probably prompted an over-protective parent to attack the dog and bite the child.

Provincial councillor Huib van Essen said the recent attac ks were unusual and suggested the Den Treek wolves could be lo sing their fear of humans because

tourists use food to attract wolves so they can take photographs.

What was needed, wolf behaviour expert Diederik van Liere said, was a volunteer service to chase away wolves after a sighting.

“That would teach wolves not to approach people and is the best longterm solution,” Van Liere told the NOS broadcaster.

Meanwhile, farmers in the area insisted that shooting them was the only solution and called for the current protection regulations to be

Flying into trouble

FRANCE’S government has authorised flying taxis but Paris City Hall wants to ban them.

On July 4, the government approved airport authority Groupe ADP’s project and construction began on a ‘vertiport’ located on the Seine near Austerlitz railway station for the two-seater electric aircraft.

Paris City Hall and Jerome Coumet, mayor of the 13th Arrondissement, together with associations fighting air and noise pollution, have now taken legal action to cancel the authorisation.

The project showcasing the vertical takeoff flying taxis has also has received a €1 million subsidy from the Ile de France region.

According to the Environment ministry, the air taxis can operate until December 31 ‘at the

latest’ between 8am and 5pm, with a daily maximum of two journeys.

There will be room for one passenger paying an average fare of €110 and the taxis will follow three separate routes, connecting all the Paris airports.

Where possible, the taxis must avoid flying over buildings and follow the course of the Seine and the Paris ring road.

City hall official Dan Lert has described the flying taxis as “environmental aberrations for the ultra-rich” and a “democratic scandal” responsible for new noise pollution, especially for ring-road residents.

Lert also maintained that the airborne taxis use 30 times more energy than the Metro and emit 45 times more greenhouse gases.

LOST IN TRANSLATION (1)

WHEN I first came to Spain, I thought learning Spanish would be a no-brainer! After all, kids speak it! I then did what all expats do. I joined a class, two hours, twice a week. After a few weeks, I felt I was losing bits of key information.

Like how to yawn, as my brain swelled up with “Yo estoy. Tú estás...” Right, plan two: just one hour twice a week. OK, but s-lo-w.

My Spanish is now OK but, frankly, the Spanish don’t help with their memory problems. They keep forgetting the beginning and end of words!

Remember though, they don’t speak Castilian Spanish here on the Costa del Sol, but Andaluz or Andalucian: often a whole new language.

Overall, my Spanish has hugely improved and I can confidently ask for things in shops etc.

But why do shop assistants reckon that because you’ve said one sentence in Spanish you can speak it fluently? And never use

BREAKING VIEWS Nora’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily

one word in reply when hundreds will do?

Just a moment! I’ve spent all this time and money learning Spanish, when it should have been Andalucian.

A bit like going to Italy and learning German. I’ve just checked the local papers and there wasn’t one advert for Andalucian classes - only Spanish.

I’ve spotted a red-hot business opportunity. Now if I could only speak fluent Andalucian!

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.

Photo

FLYING TAXI: Could soon be seen over Paris.

WOLVES: Some wolves are losing their fear of humans.

Sponsored by

Everyday fitness

FUNCTIONAL fitness focuses on training the body for activities performed in daily life. Unlike traditional gym workouts that often isolate specific muscles, functional fitness involves exercises that mimic real-life movements, enhancing overall strength, balance, and flexibility. This approach prepares individuals for everyday tasks, from lifting groceries to climbing stairs, by using compound movements like squats, lunges, and push-ups.

One of the key benefits of functional fitness is its adaptability to all fitness levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, exercises can be modified to suit your capabilities.

This type of training not only improves physical health but also reduces the risk of injury by promoting better body mechanics and posture.

Functional fitness is particularly beneficial for older adults, as it

supports mobility and independence.

Engaging in regular functional fitness routines can lead to improved joint health, muscle strength, and cardiovascular endurance, contributing to a higher quality of life. Embrace functional fitness to stay active and capable throughout life’s daily demands.

Shutterstock/Denys Kurbatov

Stylish silver shades

CHOOSING the best colour to complement grey hair can transform your look, highlighting the natural beauty of your silver strands. Grey hair often has a cool undertone, making cool colours particularly flattering. Shades like icy blue, emerald green, and royal purple bring out the vibrancy in grey hair, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.

Neutral tones also work wonderfully. Crisp white creates a striking contrast, enhancing the brightness of grey hair. Charcoal and slate greys can create a cohesive, polished look without appearing dull. On the warmer side, soft pinks and lavender can add a gentle glow, making your skin appear radiant and youthful.

Bold colours, such as deep red or navy, can make a powerful statement, giving you a confident and

stylish appearance. Avoid overly warm tones like yellow or orange, as they may clash with the coolness of grey hair. Ultimately, experimenting with different colours and finding what makes you feel confident and comfortable is the key to complementing your grey hair beautifully.

Costa del Sol

Costa del Sol on screen

NETFLIX’S new series, Kaos, which was spotted filming several scenes in spots around Malaga, will premiere on the streaming platform on August 29.

Created by the scriptwriter behind ‘End of the F****** World’, Kaos is a reimagining of the myths of ancient Greek mythology, juxtaposed with today’s modern world. In Netflix’s 20-second teaser trailer, Jeff Goldblum is shown as a tracksuit-clad Zeus and aerial shots of Malaga are shown intercut with shots of chaos and jubilation in the streets.

Produced by Sister Production, Kaos will bring scenes shot in Marbella, Malaga, and Velez to screens worldwide.

Netflix tried to maintain a low profile during their filming, however, stars like Jeff Goldblum and Nabhaan Rizwan were quickly spotted by many during the production. Some scenes were on-location as early as 2021, featuring Malaga’s Calle Parras adorned with murals portraying Poseidon.

Axarquia

Railway connection

THE Nerja Town Hall is calling on the Spanish government to establish a railway connection between Nerja and Malaga. In a council meeting on July 18, a proposal was set for approval, requesting the government to initiate a feasibility study that outlines the necessary steps for establishing this connection.

Mayor José Alberto Armijo stated the importance of this initiative, noting that it will be defended at a Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility meeting in Malaga. The proposal, driven by the mayor and council members, has gained official backing from various local groups and political parties including PSOE, Podemos, and Izquierda Unida con Nerja. This initiative follows the Ministry’s response to Armijo’s Senate inquiry, confirming the connection is not currently planned.

Armijo criticised the government for neglecting the Axarquia in their planning. He urged reconsideration, highlighting the coastal train’s potential to improve regional connectivity, mobility, and economic, social, and tourism development.

Mallorca We Love Tourism

A NEW website entitled We Love Tourism in Mallorca.Com is fighting back against the anti-tourism movement.

Set up by residents, who feel that tourists are key to Mallorca’s economy, the site says - “At ‘We Love Tourism Mallorca’, we understand that Mallorca is facing a saturation problem, but we firmly believe that it is not only the responsibility of tourists, nor is the solution to close the entrance to our island.

“The situation is complex and many variables come into play, which is why we cannot demonise tourism alone. It would be advisable to analyse more parameters and take into account other perspectives. We would therefore like to send a message of support and affection to all our visitors in the face of the protests of the last few days.”

The website contains a form where you can submit your ideas.

Costa Blanca North Vibrant Villajoyosa

THE town of Villajoyosa bursts into life tomorrow, offering an enchanting display of sights and sounds as it plays host to the extraordinary celebration of the Moors and Christians.

The festivities will feature gastronomic competitions, lively open-air dances, dazzling fireworks, and captivating music. However, the true highlight is the re-enactment of the disembarkation

Early risers who make their way to the beach by 5am will be treated to an incredible re-enactment, celebrating the landing in a unique and breathtaking manner. Christians adorned in full regalia will prepare the defence artillery on the shore as more than 30 Muslim boats materialise on the horizon.

The action unfolds in dramatic fashion with both armies engaging in a gripping battle on land until they reach the foot of the castle. Ultimately, victory falls to the Moors, and the Christians are compelled to retreat.

Almeria Bird rescued

ALERTED to the fact that an unusual bird had been spotted in difficulties in a field in Roquetas de Mar, officers from the National Police attended.

They discovered that a juvenile young bird, later identified as a Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) appeared to be exhausted and it was decided that it was safest for the bird to be taken for veterinary inspection.

Acting slowly so as not to disturb the Ibis, officers placed it into a cardboard box and arranged for it to be transferred to the Los Molinos de Almeria clinic, where it was declared uninjured. It was then placed into the care of the recovery centre before it is released back into the wild.

The Glossy Ibis is not considered an endangered or even vulnerable species as there are large numbers, particularly in Africa and Australia but this individual was presumably part of a migrating flock.

Costa Blanca South Alicante shines

IN the evolving landscape of Spain’s real estate market, Alicante emerges as a beacon of positive change.

While the overall number of homes for sale across Spain has continued to decline, with a 6 per cent decrease in the second quarter of 2024 compared to the same period last year, Alicante defies this trend with impressive results.

Recent data from idealista reveals that while most provincial capitals in Spain have experienced a decrease in housing availability over the past year, Alicante is leading a notable exception.

Unlike the broader market, which has seen significant reductions - such as a staggering 30 per cent drop in Ávila and Burgos, and decreases of 25 per cent in Zamora and León - Alicante shines with a unique performance.

While cities like Valencia, Barcelona, and Madrid have all seen considerable drops in housing availability, Alicante stands out as a symbol of growth.

PETS

Pawfect pet donations

DONATING to your local animal shelter can make a significant difference in the lives of animals awaiting their forever homes.

The best items to donate include pet food, both dry and canned, to ensure a consistent and nutritious diet for the animals.

High-quality, durable toys are essential for keeping animals engaged and mentally stimulated.

Bedding, blankets, and towels provide comfort and warmth, especially for young or sick animals. Cleaning supplies such

as bleach, laundry detergent, and paper towels are crucial for maintaining a hygienic environment.

Additionally, leashes, collars, and harnesses help in the safe handling and exercise of dogs.

Cat litter and litter boxes are always in demand, as are grooming supplies like brushes and pet shampoo.

Monetary donations are also highly valued, allowing shelters to address their most pressing needs directly.

Every contribution, big or small, helps improve the lives of shelter animals.

WE all want our pets to be well cared for in our absence. No, in fact we want them to be cherished as well as safe and happy in their own home. But how expensive does that care for your pets need to be? Ferguson always has HouseSitMatch pet-sitters to care for him in his own home.

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 - rree accommodation for rree 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

The

golden years

AS pets age, their care needs evolve, necessitating more attention to maintain their quality of life.

The ‘HHHHHMM’ scale, which stands for Hurt,

Find a pet-sitter who will cherish your pets

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. Sherel and John are very nice people, and we highly recommend them as excellent sitters.

Tom C - homeowner in Mojacar

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.

Hunger, Hydration, Hygiene, Happiness, Mobility, and More Good Days Than Bad, is a helpful tool for assessing senior pets’ well-being.

Hurt involves managing any pain through regular veterinary visits. Hunger ensures they maintain a healthy appetite and weight. Hydration checks that they are drinking enough water.

Hygiene focuses on cleanliness and grooming to prevent infections.

Happiness evaluates their mental health and engagement in activities. Mobility assesses their ease of movement and absence of significant pain. Finally, ensuring there are More Good Days Than Bad helps in making compassionate decisions about their care.

By closely monitoring these factors, owners can provide their senior pets with the best possible care, ensuring they enjoy their golden years comfortably and happily.

Ferguson is a friendly cat and loves company.

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

WHEN asked about large, luxury SUVs most people will always mention Ran ge Rover (of course), Audi and BMW. Think about the Range Rover Velar, BMW X3 and Audi Q5. Well there is an overlooked rival here, and bear with me, it’s from Mazda. The CX-60 meets all the criteria, it’s large, it’s luxury and it comes with all-wheel-drive.

It may be somewhat subdued on the looks front when compa red to a Range Rover or Ger man rivals, but sometimes dis creet is good. It’s one of those kind of cars where those that know, know, and not least because it’s full of standard equipment, extremely well bolted together, has a feeling of premium quality and in diesel form has a superb six-cylin der in-line straight six engine. The re’s also the CX-80 which is effectively a larger version that has more seating options.

Now I don’t dispute that those in search of badge one-upmanship will gravitate towards more well-known premium motors and dismiss my comparison, but the Mazda is more about value for money luxury. Both in terms of running costs and the initial purcha-

Mazda CX-60 - very impressive and economical SUV luxury

se price the Mazda offers an affordable touch of quality.

These days some may baulk at the option of diesel power but Mazda has always supplied excellence in its engineering and the e-Skyactive D engine comes with mild hybrid assistance, excellent economy and low emissions.

Iberian edition Porsche

IN 1984, Porsche changed from being represented in Spain by an importer to owning a subsidiary, now called Porsche Ibérica.

To celebrate the 40th anniversary the company is creating an exclusive and highly individualised edition of the iconic 911 in limited numbers.

The idea behind the Cuarenta Edition was to create a 911 that would have been ordered by a Spanish or Portuguese customer 40 years ago and that is still fashionable and desirable today.

In this second phase of the 911

Carrera GTS version is equipped with the new T-Hybrid drive system. It combines an electric motor integrated into the turbocharger, a lightweight high-voltage battery, and an electric motor coupled to the eight-speed PDK gearbox.

This allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in three seconds and reach a top speed of 312 km/h (194 mph).

The car features a unique combination of exterior and interior colours and finishes, as well as exclusive logos inspired by Iberian history and cul-

For the Cuarenta Edition, a bespoke exterior colour has been created which has been named Quercusverde which is reminiscent of the very particular shade that holm oak leaves have and this green colour is characteristic of the typical landscape of Spain and Portugal.

The interior is designed in a two-tone Truffle Brown and Cohiba Brown leather combination. The darker brown shade is applied on the instrument panel and lower surfaces. The lighter is applied on the trim surfaces, whilst the upholstery contains a green tartan finish.

Customers will also receive an indoor car cover custom-made for the Cuarenta Edition. Executed in Quercusverde, it features a Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur logo on front, Cuarenta Edition lettering on sides in Cremewhite and badge on the rear.

It also performs well, not that the CX60 is the kind of vehicle you’ll be piloting at speed across twisting cross country roads, but in its most powerful diesel form it reaches the benchmark 62 mph in just 5.8 seconds.

In my view in-line straight six engines always return superb driver feedback and the Mazda is no exception. The eight-speed automatic transmission is a smooth affair and the engine seems to offer endless reserves of ‘pull’ and in 254PS form provides 550Nm of torque. It seemed to me impossible to not find a comfortable driving position in the CX-60 and the interior is not only of superb quality but provides buttons rather than endless touch screen mania that seems to prevail nowadays. My only real niggle is that the overall ride quality is sometimes compromised over rougher surfaces, but I suspect most would not even notice such minor imperfections.

If you want an affordable touch of luxury SUV on your drive then the CX-60 is well worth a drive. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

AFFORDABLE LUXURY: I don’t think you will be disappointed.

Walking football

TEAM SPAIN, the international representative walking football organisation, travelled to Nantes, France, earlier this month to compete in a European event featuring competitions for men at +50 / +60 and ladies +40. It was the first time that Team Spain were represented in three categories against some of the best teams in the World.

Following on from last year’s strong showing in the World Nations Cup at St George’s Park , England, where Team Spain over 50s, the sole representative side, reached the semifinals it was with great anticipation that the players flew in from Alicante, Malaga and Sevilla to represent their country.

Against stellar opponents in every age group Team Spain won all their opening fixtures which included a first International win for the ladies against Republic of Ireland 3-1. Buoyed by this success ‘La Rioja’ continued to put in impressive performances throughout the day but could not add to their points total against vastly more experienced opponents in the shape of France, England and Italy. The majority of the ladies qualified for the age group above the competition they played in and so they deserve great credit for their performances.

After Team Spain men enjoyed encouraging starts they also fell away from contention but not before they recorded an impressive 4-2 win against the hosts at +50 and a newly assembled +60 enjoyed wins over Switzer-

land, Basque Country before drawing with Ireland. At one point it looked like the +60 might exceed all reasonable expectations before a loss against England and dark horses Jersey put an end to that dream. Sadly injuries took their toll on the side and further defeats to France and Italy on day two saw the team finish a credible fifth out of eighth in their first International tournament - there is certainly bigger things to come fin the future.

Mark Kavanagh, the +50 manager, was disappointed with his team’s final placing but conceded that lack of preparation due to player unavailability and having to field a completely new team from that of last August contributed to an unfavourable set of results. That said, only another one goal deficit to World Nations champions England and a 3-1 lead against the Basque Country surrendered prevented a top three finish. A further lead was wiped away by surprise package Jersey but second day defeats to winners Italy and Rep OI put the team well out of contention.

Congratulations to our hosts, France who put on a tremendous tournament and also the various club sides for providing the players.