Costa Blanca North 5 – 11 Sep 2024 Issue 2044

Flamingo Fever

THE celebrations of Mare de Deu de Loreto have transformed the streets in Duanes de la Mar, Javea. The dedicated residents have invested months of e ort in adorning their streets with vivid colours and captivating artworks, each showcasing a distinct theme to enchant the local community and visitors alike.

The residents of Calle Triana chose a pink amingo theme, creating an extraordinary urban landscape portraying a lake teeming with amingos.

The combination of the street’s greenery and the striking pink hue of the amingos created a jubilant and festive ambience, attracting the attention of all passersby.

At the heart of the street, a pair of amingos next to a fountain serves as the focal point.

Sadly, not everyone was enamoured by the pink amingo decorations, as they were twice vandalised, with

three of the 23 amingos being stolen. Undeterred by this mindless act, the determined residents have not abandoned their dream of seeing

their street adorned. Instead, they have devised a new approach, whereby the amingos are now suspended from their balconies, along with explanatory signs.

Although vandalism has cast a shadow, the residents remain resolute in their commitment to preserving the tradition and pride of their beloved neighbourhood.

Costa Blanca North • Issue No. 2044 • 5 - 11 Sept 2024

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Pink flamingos were chosen by Calle Triana.

Fiesta artwork Gastronomic feast

Donna Williams

THE posters for the Stm. Cristo del Sagrari and the Association of Moors and Christians Sant Blai were revealed at an event in Altea for the Patron Saint Festivities.

The main events will be from September 20 to 24 and artists Salvador Gomis and Joan Llobell created the works. The unveiling took place at Plaza de l’Aigua and was attended by a large audience, including members of the Altea festive community, local authorities, and the artists’ families.

At the event, the artists

took the time to personally explain the inspiration and meaning behind their creations to the attendees.

Joan Llobell, the artist behind the striking poster of Christ, expressed that “art serves as a conduit to our transcendent and divine selves. It allows us to tap into the boundless sense of unity with the universe, a theme that has pervaded my work for many years.”

Salvador Gomis’s Moors and Christians poster captures the essence of Altea’s heritage. The artwork showcases the

town’s bay and highlights important milestones, such as the town’s charter in 1617 and the landing of Archduke Charles of Austria’s troops in 1705.

Mayor Diego Zaragozi emphasised the significance of the festivities and expressed his delight at the existence of the Commission of Festivities of Christ. He highlighted its profound impact on the population of Altea and spoke about the enduring strength of the annual festival of Moors and Christians.

AN exquisite gastronomic celebration took place at the Hermitage of Sanc, featuring the ‘Menjars de la Terra’ from the Festa de Sant Antoni. The mayor of Benidorm, Toni Perez, along with the councillor for Fiestas, Marilo Cebreros, and other members of the Municipal Corporation, joined the mayorales of Sant Antoni and residents from l’Horta and other areas of Benidorm to partake in this event.

Dozens of people came together to sample and enjoy Benidorm’s most traditional dishes and to collaborate on the planning phase for the festivities that will take place next January. The gastronomic delights included a wide array of dishes such as salads, pallet buns, pebrera talladeta (a pepper based dish),

coca farcida (a kind of thin empanada), sang amb ceba (boiled blood fried with onion), olleta de blat (a soup based dish), an assortment of rice dishes, fruits, ice cream, and sweet cocas.

The organisers extended their heartfelt thanks to all local companies, organisations, and residents who contributed to this edition of ‘Menjars de la Terra’, whether by sponsoring the event or offering traditional delicacies from Benidorm’s gastronomy.

The festivities of Sant Antoni del Porquet are traditionally held in midJanuary at the Hermitage of Sanc, with events such as the offering of flowers, the proclamation, the copletas or the blessing of animals in the Plaza de la Ermita.

Traditional dishes from Benidorm.

Artists and families with their works.

Credit:alteadigital.es

Sober curious

health-conscious than ever before. This is particularly signi cant in the younger generation, who in the past would have typically accounted for a key demogration. This movement towards choosing non or low-alcohol options over alcoholic drinks has been dubbed ‘sober curious’. This shift

trend and represents a fundamental transformation in how di erent generations engage with and consider alcohol usage. It doesn’t necessarily

ploration rather than rigid guidelines. The focus lies in being mindful of the e ects of alcohol on the mind and body and making more conscious choices.

Two-drink limit

GIVEN that Ryanair is calling for a two-drink limit on planes, it would appear that the ‘sober curious’ movement has not yet extended to tourists. His comment came in the wake of an increase in air rage incidents this summer, with an average of one a week. In most cases, excessive alcohol consumption or use of ‘powders and pills’ was a contributing factor, according to O’Leary.

Flights from the UK to so-called ‘party destinations’ have been worst affected. As a result, Ryanair staff have taken to searching the hand luggage of passengers who appeared to be under the influence before allowing them to board a flight. O’Leary’s suggestion is for airports to require passengers to have their passports checked when buying alcohol, much as they do when buying cartons of cigarettes.

While not begrudging travellers a tipple during their journey, the Ryanair CEO claimed that the airports opposed his idea as it would impact their bottom line. But O’Leary hit back, saying that the airports don’t have to deal with drunk and unruly passengers - only when they are at 33,000 feet do they become a serious problem.

He also mentioned that some of the excess consumption by passengers was related to frustration with time spent waiting for delayed flights and lengthy queues at passport controls.

ACCORDING to the 2021 European health report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), each person aged 15 and over consumes, on average, 9.5 litres of pure alcohol each year in Europe, which is equivalent to around 190 litres of beer, 80 litres of wine, or 24 litres of spirits. The top 10 European countries with the highest alcohol consumption per capita were the Czech Republic(14.3 litres), Latvia (13.2), Moldova (12.9), Germany (12.8), Lithuania (12.8), Ireland (12.7), Spain (12.7), Bulgaria (12.5), Luxembourg (12.4), and Romania (12.3). It has also been confirmed that across Europe men typically drink more than women. For example, 13 per cent of men drink alcohol every day compared to 4 per cent of women.

Animal shelter funding

THE Generalitat Valenciana recently announced the allocation of €900,000 for the 2024 nancial year to support animal shelters in La Nucia. These funds will be distributed through two lines of aid aimed at various initiatives, including education programmes, volunteering, biodiversity conservation, and the construction of new animal shelters. Vicente Martinez Mus, the Minister of the Environment, Infrastructure, and Territory, made this announcement during his visit to La Nucia on August 28.

This was the Minister’s rst visit to La Nucia, and he was warmly received at the town hall by Bernabe Cano, the mayor of La Nucia, and other councillors. The visit included a stop at the Municipal Animal Shelter, where the minister expressed his

deep concern about the reported increase in animal abandonment during the summer. Key o cials from the Generalitat Valenciana, including Miguel Angel Ivorra, Raul Merida, Javier Sendra, Maria Jose Martinez, and Luis Gomis, joined the minister on this visit.

This important visit also involved discussions at La Nucia Town Council, where the urgent issue of rising animal abandonment was addressed. Throughout the visit to the Animal Shelter, the minister and his team were accompanied by Belen Nuñez, president of the La Nucia Animal Protection. The visit served as a strong rea rmation of the Minister’s unwavering commitment to combat animal abandonment and promote responsible pet ownership.

Family assistance

FUNDING has been approved to support the education of children aged 0 to two in authorised nursery schools in Denia, La Xara, and Jesus Pobre. The town council has set aside €80,000 for this initiative, with each family eligible to receive €300 per child.

The Local Government Board has already given the green light to the criteria for the new funding programme, which aims to assist families with the costs associated with early childhood education.

These grants are designed to help parents balance work and family life by helping to cover the expenses of sending their young children to nursery school. Each eligible applicant will receive a one-time payment of €300 per child, assuming they meet the specified requirements.

The criteria will soon be published in the Official Gazette of the Pro-

vince of Alicante (BOP) and the application window is set to open in mid-September through the Electronic Office of Denia Town Council.

To qualify for the grants, applicants must be registered in Denia, have their child enrolled in an authorised nursery school in Denia, La Xara, or Jesus Pobre, commit to regular attendance for a minimum of eight mon-

ths in the 2023/2024 academic year, have applied for and received financial aid from the Generalitat, and be enrolled for the new academic year 2024/2025. It’s important to note that receiving municipal aid will not preclude applicants from applying for scholarships and grants from the Ministry of Education or other governmental bodies.

An important visit to the animal shelter.

Subsidy for nursery school fees.

ON Thursday September 5 at 8.00pm, the Plaza de l’Aigua in Altea will host an exceptional concert aimed at supporting the Integra Marina Baixa Association. This event is part of the A Fling Called Swing European project, in which the Altea Town Council is actively involved as a partner.

The event is financially supported by the European Commission through the VTHPA Programme (Volunteering Teams High Priority Areas) and is being organised by the Altea Town Council in collaboration with the De Amicitia association.

This concert in Altea was announced with the

Water rescue Swing Song

participation of German Manjon, the mayor of European Projects; Pepa Victoria Perez, the councillor for Culture; Ignacio Gonzalez, the director of DeAmicitia; and Toni Lledo, a member of the Board of Directors of In-

tegra.

According to the head of European Projects, A Fling Called Swing is a European initiative initiated by the DeAmicitia association in 2021. The primary goal of this project was to address the ne-

gative impacts of loneliness during the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly among the elderly, with swing music serving as the connecting theme.

Pepa Victoria Perez, the councillor for Culture, explained, “We have chosen to collaborate with this association for the concert because we believe that they represent a vulnerable group that was significantly affected by the pandemic.”

Tickets for A Fling Called Swing cost €5 and can be purchased at www. alteacultural.com.

For more information about the project, you can visit the official website at www.aflicans.eu.

Donna Williams FIREFIGHTERS from Benidorm sprang into action to rescue a young tourist who sustained an injury while enjoying the natural beauty of the Fuentes del Algar natural area in Callosa d’en Sarria, Alicante, on August 28.

Upon receiving the distress call at approximately 6pm, a coordinated rescue operation was initiated, involving members of the Callosina Local Police, lifeguards from the fountains, and health technicians along with an SVB ambulance.

Additionally, two light vehicles from the Benidorm fire station, equipped with specialised water

rescue gear, were deployed. The firefighters navigated through the upstream channel to reach the injured tourist’s location. They carefully stabilised her for safe transfer by employing a special buoyancy vest and a nest stretcher with a flotation system. Once out of the water, the emergency services carefully carried the stretcher along a path to the waiting ambulance, which swiftly transported the tourist to the Regional Hospital of the Marina Baixa.

The entire rescue operation took around three hours and concluded around 9pm.

A Fling Called Swing is coming to Altea.

Vouchers galore

WE have reached the time of year when several town councils in Costa Blanca North offer vouchers to support local enterprises and residents alike. To date, Euro Weekly News has been made aware of three of them: Alfas del Pi, Finestrat, and Villajoyosa.

As each one operates slightly differently, below is a summary of the voucher scheme for each town:

Alfas del Pi

This will come into effect on Monday, September 9, to coincide with the start of the school year and will run until October 9. During this time, residents of Alfas del Pi will be able to purchase vouchers valued at 10, 20, 50, 100 and 150 euros, paying only 50 per cent of the nominal value for each one, up to a maximum voucher value of €150 per person.

The vouchers will be provided in a digital format and can be spent in multiple participating stores or as a

single purchase. Conditions apply, and full details, including how to request the vouchers, can be found at www. alfasbonosconsumo.es.

Finestrat

‘Finestrat Consumer Bonus’ is already running and will continue until December 30 to help with the expense of Christmas. Vouchers will be available in denominations of 10, 20, and

50 euros, and consumers will pay half price to buy them. The maximum value of vouchers per person is €300, and then vouchers can be spent in stores that have signed up for the scheme. This year, that number has been increased as the employee threshold for establishments that wish to participate has been increased from 10 to 15. Conditions

apply, and vouchers can be purchased at https://finestrat. bonoconsumo.es/es or by visiting the Department of Residents of Other Nationalities on the second floor of the town hall.

Villajoyosa

This will come into effect from September 4, running until September 30. During this time, residents can request vouchers with a nominal value of 10, 20 or 50 euros up to a maximum value of €50 per person. Unlike the other schemes, these are entirely free of charge, although any purchase they are used against must be twice as much as the voucher value.

The vouchers are also only valid for seven days from receipt. Conditions apply, and vouchers can be downloaded at www.bo nosconsumovillajoyosa.es or collected in person at Vilameseu (Carrer Colon 57) on September 5 and 6 between 10.00am and 2.00pm.

FELIX MALLORQUIN from Altea emerged as the 2024 Castell de l’Olla photography contest winner, outshining 125 other entrants. His winning entry captured the breathtaking majesty of this year’s Castell de l’Olla, showcasing the spectacular fireworks against the backdrop of Altea and the skyscrapers of Benidorm.

The contest, organised by Castell de l’Olla Brotherhood and the Department of Culture of Altea, offered a prize pool of €1,000.

The award ceremony, held at Casa de Cultura, featured a screening of this year’s Castell de l’Olla, including interviews with Fernando Trotonda of Vulcano Pyrotechnics,

What a picture

footage of the fireworks preparation (which also honoured the late pyrotechnician Matias Aznar), and stunning aerial views captured by Cayetano Solano using a drone. Subsequently, the top 15 photographs selected by the jury were unveiled, marking the commencement of an exhibition at the Municipal Library that will run until September 27. Felix Mallorquin’s captivating image secured the first prize of €500, while the second and third-place winners, Francisco Haro from Elda and Jose J Gonzalez

Charity Padel & Gala

JAVEA FERAL CAT ASSOCIATION will be having a very busy weekend on September 14 and 15. They will be hosting their annual Padel Tournament and Gala Weekend to help raise much-needed funds for their charity.

The event will take place at Club de Padel, and Rosa Cardona, mayor of Javea, will present the tournament trophies. With a massive 96 entries received and even some in reserve, this promises to be a very exciting competition.

On Sunday, the fun day, there will be lots going on, including live entertainment from singer Ian Hunt and DJ and Master of the Ceremonies Mike Dennison from 100pm. In addition, the popular Cortado’s cake stall and Carol’s Jams and Chutneys will be open all day, assuming

they don’t run out of goodies before then!

There will also be a raffle with some very enticing prizes up for grabs. These include two €100 Amazon vouchers, fabulous wine hampers, a cocktail hamper, plus a variety of vouchers from local salons, shops and restaurants. Tickets will be sold on Saturday and Sunday with the prize draw on Sunday at 5.00pm.

Julie Keene, Vice President of Javea Feral Cats, expressed her gratitude to the local community, volunteers, padel players, businesses, and Padel 24 for their support.

The full address for the venue is Club del Padel, Paris 24, Avinguda de Paris, Javea. If you would like to learn more about the Javea Feral Cats Association, visit www.javeaferalcats.com.

from Santa Pola, received €300 and €200, respectively.

Acknowledging the photographers for vividly capturing the essence of the Castell de l’Olla, the mayor extended her congratulations to all participants and the winners, emphasising the singular splendour of this exceptional pyrotechnic spectacle in the Spanish Mediterranean.

Some of the raffle prizes on offer.

Credit: Javea Feral Cat Association

Winning photograph.

Tourism-phobia Record attendance

HOSBEC, the hotel employers’ association, presented a new campaign on August 30 aimed at bridging the gap between residents and tourists while promoting responsible tourism. The campaign #Yotambiensoyturista is in direct response to the growing phenomenon of tourism-phobia that has been seen in other regions.

During the presentation, mayor of Benidorm Toni Perez reiterated his support for tourism, describing it as ‘the industry of happiness’. He further emphasised the integral role of tourism in fostering a connection between residents and visitors, highlighting the positive impact of tourism on the local community. He underscored the city’s steadfast commitment to tourism and hospitality, stating that Benidorm warmly welcomes tourists from around the world.

#Yotambiensoyturista campaign.

Credit:benidorm.org

THE summer 2024 programme featured four concerts at the Denia Jazz Festival, marking the event’s 10th anniversary with a remarkable turnout of around 2,000 attendees. Held in the picturesque gardens of Torrecremada throughout August, the festival showcased a stellar lineup of national and international artists, drawing praise from music enthusiasts.

Councillor for Culture Raul Garcia de la Reina lauded the programme for its high quality and revealed that scheduling the last two concerts on weekends, specifically on Saturday and Friday, rather than coinciding with other festive events, may have contributed to the increased attendance.

Addressing the social sustainability of the tourism industry, Mayor Perez expressed pleasure in collaborating with the Costa Blanca Tourist Board and the Ministry to support the Hosbec campaign. Nuria Montes, minister for industry, innovation trade and tourism, further supported this by expressing her view that tourism positively affects personal and social enrichment.

Donna Williams

EL CAMPELLO Town Council has unanimously approved a public commendation for 11 Local Police officers in recognition of their exceptional actions that saved lives. This decision was supported by the Chief Commissioner of the Local Police, Jose Antonio Cano, and the councillor for Citizen Security, Rafa Galvan. Their outstanding actions were documented on various dates. For example, on March 21, an impressive intervention occurred on Calle Muro where the officers successfully res -

In addition, Montes addressed

the ongoing debate surrounding the tourist tax, stating that “tourists cannot be criminalised for other problems that the territory has, such as economic, health, or social problems.”

She pointed out the community’s underfunding and criticised those supporting the tourist tax for failing to address underlying issues effectively.

Renowned pianists Luca Filastro and Bernd Lhotzky kicked off the festival on Thursday August 1, followed by pianist and vocalist Francesca Tandori and her trio on Thursday August 8. The saxophonist and festival director, Enric Peidro, unveiled a new tribute project to musician and composer Juan Tizon alongside the International Jazz Quartet on Saturday August 17. The festival culminated on Friday August 23, with the return of the festive jazz group Racalmuto from Madrid.

The councillor emphasised the success of the festival’s venue and the Gardens of Torrecremada. He noted the positive feedback from the audience after each concert, underscoring the overall satisfaction with this year’s event.

Police commendation

uscitated a man who was unresponsive, had half-open eyes, pale and cold skin, and no pulse. The officers involved in this life-saving intervention were Francisco Ceballos Rodriguez and Carolina Casanova Mínguez.

Similarly, on January 11, another commendable intervention took place in the L’Amerador area, where the officers located and prevented a serious case of self-harm by a young man in-

side his home. The officers involved in this action were Gustavo Adolfo Alonso Gamiz, Francisco Javier Ceballos Rodriguez, Carolina Casanova Minguez, Luciano Cardona Lobregad, and Manuel Terrres Martinez.

Furthermore, on December 13, 2023, the police applied a tourniquet to a severely injured person after a traffic accident, saving the individual’s limb. The officers commended

for this action were Alvaro Rico Martinez, Fernando Bernal Perez, Vicente Aleman Garberi, Sebastian Ceron Perez, Alvaro Martin Porras, and Javier Tejero Romero.

In each case, the commendations were supported by reports from an instructor who praised the officers’ swift actions and expressed appreciation for the rapid response of the SAMU medical services.

Chef recognition Pest control

Donna Willams TEULADA Town Council has announced that it will be conducting pest prevention and control services throughout the month of September to ensure the health and well-being of the community and to maintain local infrastructure. Here are the details of the scheduled activities:

Credit:teuladamoraira.com.es

Municipal Sewerage System Treatment:

- Zone 1: Pla del Mar, Arnella, Alcasar, Ctra Moraira, and Benitachell Sector

- Zone 5: Teulada town centre and industrial estate

- Zone 6: Moraira town centre

The treatment is set to commence in the second half of September. It will involve the disinfection and rat control of 100 per cent of the sewers in these areas to prevent the presence of cockroaches and rodents.

Mosquito Control Service:

- Scuppers of the municipality: September 18 - Catalogued outbreaks: September 25

The targeted areas for treatment include Pontet path of the road and ravine, Marjal de Senillar, Camí Camarrocha, Camí Font Santa, Purifier, Camí de la Serra, Font de L’Horta, Font de la Jana, and any other public proliferation areas along with the dog park.

Other Services:

- Disinfection of the dog park: September 23

- Surveillance and monitoring of devices for rodent and insect control in municipal offices and schools will be conducted in the second half of September.

- Disinfection of the municipality’s playgrounds will also be carried out during the second half of September.

CHRISTINA FIGUEIRA, the talented chef of the renowned restaurant El Xato in La Nucia, was recently honoured with the prestigious Gastro Cinema 2024 award.

This award, a significant recognition in the culinary world, celebrates her exceptional culinary skills and dedication to promoting local gastronomy. The Gastro Cinema contest, which combines the realms of cinema and gastronomy, concluded its sixth edition on August 29.

In her acceptance speech, Chef Cristina Figueira expressed her gratitude for the award, attributing it to the collective effort of the ‘great family’ at El Xato. She also acknowledged the unwavering support of the Alicante Provincial Council, a testament to their commitment to spotlighting the diligence and artistry inherent in the culinary profession,

which she considers a vital part of the region’s history and culture.

The tribute and award ceremony for Gastro Cinema 2024 took place at the Teatro Principal in Alicante and was attended by various dignitaries, including Juan de Dios Roman, the provincial deputy for Culture, as well as Maria Jesus Jumilla, the councillor for

La Nucia Tourism. The restaurant has continuously evolved its cuisine over the years while remaining true to its traditional roots and distinctive flavours. Now in its fourth generation of leadership, it earned its first Michelin star in 2019 and has proudly retained the prestigious accolade every year since.

Pest control measures will be taken in Teulada.

Chef Christina Figueira receiving award.

Vincent Andres Estelles Smart tourism

Donna Williams

THE town council of Calpe has taken a significant stride towards becoming a smart tourist destination by implementing an innovative pilot project in partnership with the Tourism and Informatics departments.

A digital kiosk has been installed in the salt flats’ tourist office. The primary goal of this kiosk is to gather feedback from tourists about the services they receive and gauge their overall satisfaction.

This initiative aims to enhance the evaluation of tourist services, ultimately striving to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes. By leveraging intuitive touch interfaces and updated software, visitors can conveniently provide immediate feedback. The collected data will be processed in real-time using advanced analysis tools, enabling prompt action based on the feedback received.

The surveys conducted through the kiosk will be entirely anonymous, respecting users’ privacy and encouraging honest responses. Furthermore, the kiosk has been repurposed from another department, aligning with the municipality’s sustainability objectives and promoting the circular economy. In addition, the kiosk is optimised for energy efficiency, contributing to reducing the project’s carbon footprint.

Depending on the outcome of the pilot phase, there are plans to expand the number of evaluation kiosks to other tourist offices within the Calpe Town Council, creating a comprehensive network of feedback points covering all aspects of the visitor experience in the municipality.

THE renowned journalist and poet Vincent Andres Estelles, already honoured with a street bearing his name, has received further recognition with the installation of a plaque in the Glorieta, Denia.

Considered one of the main renovators of modern Valencian poetry, the plaque has been put in place to celebrate what would have been his 100th birthday. The event took place at 7.15pm on September 4, and the plaque was unveiled in the surroundings of the Glorieta del Pais Valencia, very close to the street that bears his name. To mark the occasion, the group Bernia set verses written by the poet to music in a unique tribute.

titutions. As part of the initiative, commemorative centenary t-shirts will be produced to ensure that Estelles’ legacy continues to thrive in the heart of Denia.

Additionally, the Estelles al cor campaign, initiated by the Department of Linguistic Normalisation, will be launched in September. This campaign will be promoted through social networks and in collaboration with the city’s educational ins -

Furthermore, the Department of Youth is organising a special edition of the Urbajove event dedicated to the centenary of the poet’s birth. It will be held on the ground floor of the town hall on Saturday, September 21 from 6 to 8.30pm.

As part of this event, a mural will be painted in homage to Estelles and his works will be explored with a recital.

Vincent Andres Estelles is being honoured.

MORE than 1,500 people gathered at Placa Josep Carreras for the grand event, a significant moment in the history of Sant Joan d’Alacant.

The new Queens and Ladies for the 2024 major festivities were officially inaugurated, marking the beginning of a new chapter in our local traditions. The ceremony, filled with applause, emotions, and tears of joy, was a testament to the impor -

Safe extraction Park restoration Queens & Bridesmaids

tance of this event.

Amidst the heartfelt moments, Aixa Verdu Ruiz was crowned the Queen of the Fiestas del Cristo 2024, while Nerea Fuentes Gaitan was named the Children’s Queen. The Bridesmaids were announced as Laura Sanmiguel Masegosa and Melanie Masanet Miranda, with Lucia Gosalbez Vicens

A LORRY driver in Villajoyosa was trapped inside the cabin of his vehicle after experiencing a severe episode of lower back pain. The man found himself unable to move due to the cramped dimensions of the lorry’s cabin.

Emergency services were alerted to the situation, and despite the efforts of medical personnel, it was determined that the driver’s limited mobility required the special expertise of the firefighters to carry out a safe extraction. Therefore, firefighters from the Football Park Fire Station in Benidorm came to his rescue in a warehouse area of Villajoyosa.

Working closely with health technicians, the fire service carefully devised and executed a manoeuvre to extract the driver from the cabin as comfortably as possible, minimising any further discomfort for the injured driver. The rescue team deployed a slide ladder to facilitate the extraction, ultimately leading to the successful removal of the driver from the cabin.

This successful outcome brought relief to all involved, and the driver was subsequently placed on a stretcher and evacuated to a Hospital Centre via an ambulance with basic life support for further treatment.

A significant historical moment.

IT has been a long time coming, almost four years, but finally, the restoration works on Thriviers Park in Javea have begun. The park, also known as Reina Sofia Park, was awarded a grant of €215,796 in early July, and the contract was awarded to Activa Medio Ambiente y Paisajismo.

This company specialises in designing green spaces and aims to have the park ready and reopened within the next three months. This will be a very welcome gift to the local community as they have missed having somewhere to go with their children to enjoy playing and socialising with others.

All summer long, they have had to endure heatwaves without the refuge of a public garden, a green space that provides shade and tranquillity. Until now, the park has been cordoned off, a reminder of a public contract that did not materialise.

Now at least, there is light at the end of the tunnel, and residents can look forward to having a fully restored and modernised park to enjoy next summer.

and Astrid Gimenez Martinez taking on the roles of the Children’s Bridesmaids for the festivities. The mayoral officials then presented them with the crowns and insignia, marking the official beginning of their roles.

The evening was also dedicated to bidding a heartfelt farewell to the 2023 Positions of Honour. Julia Andreo Martinez, Children’s Queen, and Maria Alejandra Gentile Giner, Queen of the Festivities, shared touching

words about their yearlong reign alongside their Maids of Honour and Children’s Bridesmaids before receiving a round of applause for their exemplary representation during the past year.

The gala featured captivating performances by the Sociedad Musical la Paz band, the Hoguera Poligono San Blas, and the Narace ballet, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display by the Hermanos Caballer pirotecnics.

New Requirements for Tourist Rentals in the Valencian Region: Decree 9/2024. Expert Legal Advice.

TOURIST rentals in the Valencian region (Alicante, Valencia, Castellon) remain a contentious issue. The regional government has recently enacted Decree 9/2024, aimed at addressing various challenges related to this type of accommodation. Issues such as conflicts between neighbours and tourists. The impact on the property market. The lack of housing for permanent residents. Illegal rental offerings. Etc. In this week’s article, we review the key changes and requirements that must be met from now on to obtain a tourist rental licence.

Unique and Individualised Cadastral Reference.

All tourist properties must have an individualised cadastral reference. Property

owners have until December 31, 2024, to submit this information to the relevant authorities. Properties failing to do so will be removed from the register of tourism properties.

Local Authorities’ Limitations on Tourist Use.

The decree grants more autonomy to local councils in regulating the use of these properties. From now on, councils can impose restrictions on the maximum number of tourist rentals allowed in a building, area, or zone. These limitations must be proportionate and serve the public interest.

For instance, the town hall of Denia has unanimously decided to suspend the issuance of certificates of ur -

ban compatibility, which are necessary to obtain a tourist rental licence.

Definition of Tourist Rentals: Stay Duration, Room Rentals, etc.

Another key aspect of the new decree is the clearer definition of what constitutes a tourist rental, to avoid confusion with other types of rentals, such as seasonal lettings.

A tourist rental is now defined as one where the duration does not exceed 10 days. Provided that it is rented to the same tenant, and all other requirements set out in the decree are met.

Homeowners’ Associations and the Prohibition or Limitation of Tourist Rentals.

From now on, to obtain a tourist rental licence, if the property is part of a homeowners’ association, it is required that the community of owners has not prohibited or limited such activity. A Land Registry certification must be provided, confirming that the constitutive deed, statutes, or any community agreement does not restrict tourist rentals within the association.

Other Requirements to Obtain a Tourist Licence.

Additionally, any property intended for tourist rentals in the Valencian region must have an Energy Efficiency Certificate and civil liability insurance. Furthermore, the use of key boxes installed in public spaces for key handovers is now prohibited. Pro -

Carlos Baos (Lawyer) White & Baos.

Tel: +34 966 426 185 - info@white-baos.com - White & Baos - All Rights Reserved.

perty owners must also provide guests with a 24-hour customer service telephone number.

Finally, licences will be valid for five years. After this period, the licence must be renewed, and compliance with all requirements must be demonstrated.

At White-Baos Lawyers, we are experts in Horizontal Property Law, obtaining tourist rental licences, and court claims related to tourist rentals in the Valencian region. If you need expert legal advice on tourist rentals in the Valencian Community, do not hesitate to contact us.

ABOGADOS / SOLICITORS

Beach accessibility

THIS summer, the Department of Tourism, Beaches and Environment has worked to ensure all beachgoers, including those with reduced mobility, can access and enjoy Albir beach. For the third consecutive year, the department has provided accessibility features such as specially designed walkways and equipment like amphibious chairs and crutches to facilitate easy access to the shore and safe bathing experiences for individuals with reduced mobility.

The amphibious chairs and crutches offer increased autonomy, allowing users to navigate the beach and enter the water with ease and confidence, with the assistance of trained personnel when needed.

The accessibility efforts have seen a positive impact, with a notable increase in the number

of individuals utilising these facilities. According to the lifeguard and surveillance service of Albir beach, there has been a significant rise in the demand for accessible bathing assistance, with 25 requests for amphibious chairs and 40 requests for assistance with crutches recorded from June to date. This marks a substantial increase compared to previous years, reflecting the growing importance

of providing inclusive and accessible beach experiences for all individuals.

These initiatives have reinforced Albir beach’s position as an inclusive and accessible destination. It joins other accessible natural spaces in the region, such as the lighthouse route, which features reserved parking, ramps, special walkways for wheelchairs, and shaded areas.

Accessibility features at Albir Beach.

Credit: Audrey Gorman

CALPE BOWLS CLUB

Blevins Franks Summer Floodlit Pairs & Trips

IT’S been a long hot summer and a 7pm start didn’t feel that much cooler, but that didn’t stop our faithful bowlers pitching up for the 2024 Floodlit competition. With teams from Bonalba, El Cid, Calpe and a mixture in the fourth team of Calpe & Benitatchell bowlers, the teams were set to take on each other over the course of three evenings.

With ve players taking part from each team, and two matches of pairs and a triples each evening there was a good atmosphere of friendly rivalry.

As the evenings progressed and the evenings got cooler (did they?) on came the oodlights to nish the second matches and to guide us towards the bar.

By week two, only three points separated the top

three teams, so there was all to play for on week

three. El Cid’s ‘InCiders’ stayed in command of the

league table and claimed the trophy going three points clear with second and third place each on 14 points, but split by a shot di erence of ve, the Bonalba ‘Santos’ team took second place.

Nobody went home empty handed, third and fourth teams were presented with some very nice Cava to enjoy.

Well done to all competitors and a big thank you for your continued support of our competitions at Calpe Bowls Club. Huge thanks go to Blevins Franks for their sponsorship of this event and the bar of Club de Tennis Calpe for keeping us all hydrated, and not forgetting Christina Harris for getting through her rst comp as Competition Secretary at Calpe Bowls Club.

Winning Team: InCiders – El Cid Bowls Club

Chris Salter, Jean McLaughlin, Hazel Brown, Stewart Beatie, Dave Hall, Richard Warrilow, Alan Ferrand.

MERCADONA has implemented a new closing time in all its supermarkets from Monday, September 2.

The Valencian company is returning to its pre-summer business hours across its entire network of supermarkets across Spain.

Starting on Monday, September 2, Mercadona has changed the opening hours of its supermarkets in Spain, resuming the previous hours after the end of the franchise’s special summer campaign.

The supermarket chain extended the service hours until 10pm in the areas with the highest number of tourists, as well as opening on Sundays and holidays in June, July and August,

New closing time

with reduced opening hours until 3pm.

Mercadona implemented these summer hours in a total of 340 stores, which have now resumed their normal opening hours as of Monday, Septem

ber 2; open from 9am to 9.30pm, uninterrupted.

Mercadona maintains its philosophy of closing to the public on Sundays and public holidays, following the national traditions, except in certain circumstances, such as in tourist towns during the summer months, as many did along the coast, or in the event of several public holidays in a row.

Mercadona recommends that its customers consult the opening hours of their local stores on the supermarket’s website, which provides all details of opening and closing hours, and days, of the 1,617 supermarkets the company currently has throughout Spain.

Italy faces anti-corruption overhaul

THE Council of Europe (CoE) has called on Italy to intensify its efforts against corruption, particularly among its top leadership. In a report by GRECO, the CoE’s anti-corruption body, Italy’s current measures are deemed inadequate, especially concerning high-ranking officials like the prime minister and key law enforcement agencies.

While Italy has a robust legal framework in place, GRECO criticised it as overly com plex and ineffective. The report emphasi ses the need for unified rules on conflicts of interest and financial disclosures, which currently fail to cover all persons with top executive functions (PTEFs) adequately.

Key concerns include the lack of a uni versal code of conduct for senior officials, inconsistent regulations on gifts and lo bbying, and inadequate sanctions for rule violations. GRECO also highlighted the absence of gender di versity in leadership roles within ma jor law enforcement agencies.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government now faces the challenge of implementing GRECO’s 19 recommendations, which will be reviewed in 2026. Despite some progress, Italy remains a high-risk country for corruption, as reflected in its ranking on Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index.

For Italy’s residents and businesses,

Italy’s €25 tourist tax

ITALY is set to introduce a new tourist tax, potentially raising the levy to €25 (£21.30) per night for visitors staying in high-end accommodations. This move is part of a broader effort to address the challenges of overtourism and to provide financial support to cities like Florence, Rome and Venice, which are struggling with the pressures of heavy tourist traffic.

The proposed tax, which could be implemented as early as next year, targets luxury hotel stays. Guests staying in rooms costing over €750 (£638) per night would

be subject to the maximum tax of €25. For more affordable options, the tax starts at €5 (£4.26) for rooms under €100 (£85) per night. Intermediate rates include a €10 (£8.51) tax for rooms between €100 (£85) and €400 (£340), and a €15 (£12.77) tax for rooms priced between €400 (£340) and €750 (£638).

Italian officials argue that the tax is essential to managing tourism sustainably while funding critical services in overburdened cities.

Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè emphasised the importance of

responsible tourism, stating that the tax would improve services and encourage more conscientious behaviour among tourists. However, the proposal has raised concerns within the tourism industry. Maria Carmela Colaiacovo, President of Confindustria Alberghi, warned that high taxes could harm Italy’s competitiveness as a travel destination. She stressed the need to balance revenue generation with maintaining Italy’s appeal, a sentiment echoed by industry leaders worried about deterring visitors.

Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni.

Mercadona has returned to its usual opening hours after the summer months.

Princess to Queen Keoghan and Cillian

Linda Hall

SEVENTY-TWO per cent of Spain’s population believe that Leonor, Princess of Asturias, will eventually reign as queen.

When Felipe VI took over from his father Juan Carlos 1 in June 2014, his daughters Leonor and Sofia lived as far away from the public gaze as possible.

Now, though, the heir to the throne,

ght she would reign, compared with 20 per cent of who did not. Eight per cent failed to answer or said they did not know.

Amongst women, certainty that the Princess of Asturias would become queen rose to 74 per cent, compared with 71 per cent of males. The younger the participants of both sexes, the greater the belief that Leonor would reign. This ranged from 73 per cent for the 18-29 age group, 74 per cent for those between 30-44 but fell to 71 per cent amongst the

pants thou

Meanwhile, Leonor is not alone as a queen-in-waiting, as she is accompanied by Belgium’s Princess Elisabeth (23), Princess Catharina-Amalia (20) in the Netherlands, Princess Victoria (47) of Sweden, and Princess Ingrid Alexandra of Norway (20), second in line after Crown Prince Haakon.

DUBLIN’s own Barry Keoghan is set to join Cillian Murphy on the big screen.

Barry Keoghan, 31, known for his roles in Saltburn and Banshees of Inisherin, will be starring alongside Cillian Murphy, 48, in the upcoming Peaky Blinders film.

Irish actor Barry Keoghan has had a rapid rise in film, with accolades including a BAFTA Award, along with nominations for an Academy Award and two Golden Globe Awards.

The film will be a continuation of the multi-award-win-

ning, six-season gangster saga, set in Birmingham between 1919 and 1934, featuring a star-studded cast of Rebecca Ferguson, Cillian Murphy from the original show, and now Barry Keoghan. The film will be made in association with BBC Film, written by the show’s original creator, Steven Knight, but the plot and further casting remain tightly under wraps.

On his return to his famous Tommy Shelby role, Cillian Murphy said, “It seems like Tommy Shelby wasn’t finished with me.”

“It is very gratifying to be recollaborating with Steven Knight and Tom Harper on the film version of Peaky Blinders.” Murphy told Netflix, adding “This is one for the fans.” Mr Knight stated “I’m genuinely thrilled that this movie is about to happen. It will be an explosive chapter in the Peaky Blinders story. No holds barred. Full on Peaky Blinders at war.”

Tom Harper, who directed episodes in the first season in 2013, will also return to Peaky Blinders for the big-screen adaptation.

Two award-winning Irish actors will perform side-by-side in the Peaky Blinders film.

PRINCESS LEONOR: Now an ensign in Spain’s Navy.

Photo credit: Casa Real

World model

FINLAND is set to bury nuclear waste in a repository for 100,000 years, creating the world’s first geological tomb and becoming ‘a model for the entire world’.

Next year or in early 2026, Finland will bury spent nuclear fuel in watertight canisters, deposited more than 400 metres below the Finnish forests.

‘Onkalo’ (a small ‘cave’), will become the long-term disposal facility to store the nuclear waste, on the island of Olkiluoto. The company Po-

siva is in charge of managing the final disposal of nuclear waste and is jointly owned by nuclear power company TVO and utility Fortum. Professor of radiochemistry at the University of Helsinki Gareth Law called Finland’s initiative a “big milestone” for the world, stating; “Posiva are very correct in selling this as a world first. It is going to be the first repository to take spent nuclear fuel and dispose of it in what I think is going to be a very safe and robust manner into the future.”

The Onkalo project relies on the so-called KBS-3 method, developed by the Swedish Nuclear Fuel and Waste Management Company, based on a multi-barrier principle, where several engineered barriers are placed to ensure the long-term safety of nuclear waste.

“It is a way to showcase that such a small nation sometimes is able to solve one of humankind’s maybe top 20 problems or challenges,” said Finnish Climate Minister Kai Mykkänen.

Your

OASIS fans are furious at Ticketmaster and concert promoters, accusing them of a ‘sickening’ and ‘scandalous’ handling of 2025’s ticket sales for reunion gigs.

On Saturday August 31, the band announced that all UK and Ireland dates had sold out in less than a day. Since then, social media has been overloaded with stories of fans who have waited in online queues for tickets, only to be told that the price had more than doubled to a hefty £355 (€420).

In their defence, Ticketmaster stated that the ‘in-demand standing ticket’ price was down to the event organiser, who had priced these tickets according to their market value. In light of this explanation, Euro Weekly News wanted to explore the perceived market value further, so we asked our readers if they would pay €400 to see Oasis perform.

Over 250 comments were posted by readers eager to share their views. Many admitted that they did not like Oasis, but even if they did, they would not be willing to pay that much for a ticket. Others stated that they would not even pay four cents for a ticket, and then some suggested they themselves would have to be paid €400 to go to the concert.

Marie Rose said she would not pay because “You will probably get

to see the concert online on your 70-inch TV screen with friends, and it will be like you’re there.”

Vivienne Kent was incredulous when she said, “Been so over-hyped by the media... absolutely ridiculous for a so-so couple of brothers who are only doing this now to get a mass of money to retire on.”

Paul Slater shared, “I’d spend €200 max. I saw Liam Gallagher live a couple of years ago. Horses for courses. They were ‘the scene’ when I was in my mid-20s, so I have a big interest in them.”

Annelie Ash expressed, “Definitely maybe... no, I would love to see them but not at that price... waiting to see if the world tour is a world tour... rather not have to go back to UK anyway, although would have considered Dublin if we hadn’t been booted out the queue for being a bot.”

Judith Dominque Wolfenegg gushed, “I have seen them three times back in Vienna - absolutely fabulous live act, one of the best I have ever seen. If I had not seen them, I would have possibly paid that amount for it, but as I have seen them several times before, no.”

While some readers said they would be willing to pay that much to see them live, the general consensus was that the organisers have the perceived market value very wrong!

OASIS ARE SET TO PLAY AGAIN NEXT YEAR.

Onkalo project in Finland.

Foreign president

Anna Akopyan FINLAND’S future President may be a foreigner, said current President Alexander Stubb during a recent interview on the Yle Radio Suomi.

He emphasised that 10 per cent of Finnish residents have foreign backgrounds and argued that the future could see a foreign national leading the country. “Racism should not be politicised. Every nation has to go through this discussion. In Finland, 10 per cent of people were not born here or don’t speak Finnish as their native language.”

Stubb’s statement comes after the government’s recent anti-racism campaign, launched by Prime Minister Petter Orpo, which will ensure that ministers follow a “diversity training,” with sessions to promote equality in the workplace.

Although the Finnish President encouraged the idea of a potential foreign leader in the future, current laws prohibit people born abroad from serving as president and employment remains a challenge for immigrants.

A 2023 Statistic Finland published data about the foreign population in the country, listing that 10.2 per cent of total population

in Finland is made up of foreigners. These largely include people of Estonian, Russian, Iraq, Chinese, Indian, and Ukrainian origins.

A UTH survey by Statistics Finland in 2015, however, revealed that the employment rate of people with foreign backgrounds was lower (64 per cent) than among those with Finnish nationality (74 per cent).

Credit: Alexander Stubb, Facebook

Finland’s President Alexander Stubb.

ONE of the most perplexing things about the Spanish to tourists and travellers is their eating habits, in particular the time of day. In comparison to the majority of countries in Europe, the Spanish eat really late. Whereas most European countries eat lunch between 12.00 and 13.30 and dinner between 17.00 and 19.00, the Spanish have a tendency to eat lunch between 14.00 and 16.00 and

Digital Nomads

THE city of Lisbon has secured its position as one of the top ve destinations for digital nomads, according to the latest ‘Savills Executive Nomad Index’. This ranking, which evaluates 25 prime destinations worldwide for digital nomads, ranks Lisbon in the fth spot globally, after Dubai and Abu Dhabi (both in the United Arab Emirates), Malaga, and Miami. The Algarve region also made its mark in the Index securing the ninth position.

Miguel Lacerda, the Lisbon Residential Director at

Savills Portugal, emphasised Lisbon has consistently been among the top ve destinations for digital nomads since the index was introduced in 2022.

He highlighted that Portugal o ers a high quality of life compared to many of its counterparts. However, there is a growing concern about escalating residential property rents which may have a future impact.

Lacerda further outlined that connectivity, innovation, a diverse cultural scene, and a favourable year-round cli-

What time is lunchtime?

habitually eat dinner after 21.30. It all dates back to the Second World War, and a decision made by Spanish dictator Francisco Franco. Back in 1942, Franco decided to change the clocks in Spain. Up until that point, Spain had followed the same time zone as countries such as England and Portugal, but Franco ordered the clocks to be put forward an hour in order to coincide with Hitler’s Germany and Italy’s Mussolini. When the sun is at its highest point (midday) the clocks in Spain strike 13.30. This one-and-a-half-hour delay to

mate are pivotal factors contributing to Lisbon’s attractiveness for digital nomads. He stressed that Lisbon’s authenticity, the talent of its professionals, and an increasingly visible international business community are essential for the city’s sustained success as a hub for digital nomads.

It is worth noting all the destinations analysed in the index o er a digital nomad visa programme or equivalent, or are part of a larger economic bloc that allows free movement of people to

the natural time zone explains why the Spanish refer to midday as being any time loosely around 13.30, whilst for the English, midday is 12.00 sharp.

The change to daylight saving time a ects most regions in Spain, making the country between one and two hours ahead of solar time, depending on the season. As a result, the Spanish follow their own clock.

Lisbon is a top five destination for Digital Nomads.

Credit: Pixabay

Another ban?

PRIME Minister Sir Keir Starmer confirmed that the government is considering new restrictions on outdoor smoking to reduce the number of preventable deaths linked to tobacco use.

The PM emphasised; “we have got to take action,” sharing that the government is working on a plan to reduce outdoor smoking in England, as the NHS is “on its knees” with tobacco-related deaths. Although Starmer didn’t specify the “outdoor” spaces, he could be referring to pub gardens, outdoor restaurants, outside hospitals, and sports grounds.

The ambition to reduce smoking in the UK comes after the King’s Speech at the state opening of Parliament in July, promising to bring back the legislation proposed by the previous government, which would prohibit anyone born on or after January 2009 from buying tobacco.

Responding to reports that smoking could be banned in some outdoor spaces in England, the PM said that it is imperative “to get the balance right.”

The chief executive of Action on Smoking and Health, Deborah Arnott similarly emphasised the need for balance, so people can “smoke in the open air, rather than inside their homes.”

Post-pandemic, business owners have already been facing financial difficulties and many are worried that the ban would result in further losses.

Pub owner Lisa Burrage said to the BBC; “This will be just another hurdle we have to face in hospitality and one we can do without.”

Son of Concorde

Credit: Boom Supersonic /fb

XB-1 paves the way for the return of supersonic travel.

Harry Sinclair

A PLANE with its sights on flying faster than the speed of sound has hit another key milestone recently.

Boom’s XB-1 supersonic aircraft, nicknamed the ‘Son of Concorde’, is expected to transport 80 passengers from London to New York in just 3.5 hours, capable of 20,000 km/h.

On Monday August 26, the Chinese-designed engine proved its worth, taking a step closer to becoming a commercial plane after its second successful test flight.

The plane flew over the Mojave Air and Space Port in Mojave, California, with developers closely watching its abilities.

Following its first flight test in March, this time the XB-1 flew for around 15 minutes, reaching an altitude of 10,400ft and travelling at a top speed of 232 knots, or 277 mph.

Additionally, the landing gear was successfully retracted and extended for the first time ever, with aviation experts on the scene stating the progression from the first test to Monday’s test was clear to see.

Researchers were also able to assess the handling capabilities of the XB-1, including its state-of-the-art digital augmentation system, also known as a roll damper.

Founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic, Blake Scholl, said, “XB-1 had a fantastic second flight this morning.

“I’m proud of the team. Today’s flight is another step toward the return of supersonic passenger travel,” the CEO stated.

The XB-1 plane is being used for the test flights before Boom unveils the actual aircraft set to be used in the future, currently known as the Over-

Drugs sprayed on fi elds

THREE fields in Baarle-Nassau, Brabant, have been found to be contaminated with chemical waste from the production of crystal meth. Police launched an investigation after receiving a tip-off about the potential contamination and conducted tests on 20 fields in the area.

The three affected fields were owned by three farmers, aged 48, 49, and 72.

The suspects allegedly mixed drug waste with manure and used it as fertiliser on their fields.

Costly Clean-Up Operation for Local Authorities

This incident highlights the environmental hazards associated with illegal drug production.

The disposal of leftover chemicals from drug labs can pose serious health risks and create costly cleanup challenges for local authorities.

While this is the first known case of drug waste disguised as manure in the region, it serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of illegal drug activities.

The food safety board is closely monitoring the situation to assess any risks to public health and ensure that contaminated onions do not enter the food chain.

IRELAND

Data veto

THE South Dublin County Council turned down Google Ireland’s planning permission request for a new data centre at Grange Castle which would have created 800 construction jobs and employment for 50 once completed. The existing electricity supply would not be able to meet the data centre’s needs, the council said.

Beer facts

A SURVEY by the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI) found that average levels of alcohol consumption in the country had fallen by 21 per cent over the past 20 years. Beer remained the most popular drink, accounting for 42.9 per cent of all alcohol consumption in 2023, compared with 43.5 per cent in 2022.

DENMARK

Storm damage

COMPENSATION for flood damage caused by storms and extreme weather conditions towards the end of 2023 has already cost 509 million krone (€68.24 million), Denmark’s Natural Hazards Department revealed. This could eventually exceed one billion once all claims were processed, the Department told the Ritzau news agency.

A pretty penny

THE world’s most valuable coin collection will soon be auctioned, 101 years after the 1923 death of its owner, wealthy businessman Lars Emil Bruun. He left the 20,000 items to the State as an emergency replacement for the national collection, stipulating that they could be sold a century later for the benefit of his heirs.

ITALY

Tunnel closed

THE Mont Blanc tunnel between Italy and France closed to all traffic on September 2 and will not reopen until December 16 as major renovations are carried out on two 300-metre sections of vaulting. Once completed, similar work is due to begin in 2025 on another 600 metres of the 59-year-old tunnel.

True grit

GIUSEPPINA BARDELL, 89, survived for four days in a Varese forest, having become disorientated after falling and breaking several ribs while collecting mushrooms. Now hospitalised but in good health, she told rescuers that she drank water from puddles and covered herself with leaves to keep warm at night.

EURO PRESS

FRANCE

80 years on

ON August 25, Paris commemorated the 80th anniversary of the city’s liberation after 1,500 days of occupation. During the celebrations firefighters raised the French flag at the Eiffel Tower, honouring the bravery of Captain Lucien Sarniguet and his men who hoisted the tricolore there after removing the Nazi flag.

NOT FORGOTTEN: Firefighters raise the French flag at the Eiffel Tower.

NORWAY SWEDEN

Charge sheet

THE owners of electric vehicles were initially allowed to use public transport lanes when the government wanted to promote their early use. Parliament will debate the future of the system in October, after several cities have since revoked this measure, resulting in traffic congestion and uncertainty amongst drivers.

More trouble

MARIUS BORG HOIBY, son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit from a brief previous relationship, has already been charged with assaulting a female partner and wrecking her home on August 6. The 27-yearold now faces the additional charges of threatening her over the phone on August 7 and also stealing a scooter.

FINLAND

Cool reception

A SURVEY by professional bodies, TEK and IL, which represent Engineers and Architects, found that only 52 per cent of non-Finnish participants would recommend the country as a place to live and work. A further 81 per cent doubted that Finland would be a better place to live in five years’ time.

Mystery ship

DIVERS are investigating a shipwreck found in shallow waters near Helsinki’s Suomenlinna fortress area, where six forts were installed on eight islands in the 18th century. The hull was loaded with large stones, suggesting that the ship, built from timber that came from the Baltic coast, was deliberately sunk.

PORTUGAL BELGIUM

No cover

FOLLOWING a 5.3 magnitude earthquake in Lisbon on August 26, the Portuguese Insurers Association (APS) revealed that only 19 per cent of homes were insured against seismic risk, while 47 per cent had no insurance at all. “The real risk of a certain occurrence at an uncertain time was at stake,” the APS warned.

Speak well

THE Santa Maria hospital’s local health unit (ULS) in Lisbon announced that it will take legal action against people who condemned the hospital or its professionals on social media. If it considered that its “honour, reputation and good name” were put into doubt, cases would be reported to the courts, the ULS said.

Here to stay

TIGER mosquitoes have been identified on 13 occasions in nine Belgian locations since the beginning of 2024, the Sciensano Research Institute reported. Investigators found that more of these mosquitoes from southeast Asia were overwintering in more places, while eggs have survived in Wilrijk and Lebbeke.

Droning on

NATO placed a €60 million order for high-tech drones from Ostend-based company, Exail Robotics Belgium, which specialises in building drones designed to detect and destroy underwater mines. The Nato order will be used principally by the Belgian Navy, which focuses on ensuring safe passage for shipping.

Come and go

Photo credit: Anne Hidalgo

THE government could offer cash incentives to foreign residents with Swedish nationality who were prepared to leave the country. A voluntary exit scheme already pays 10,000 krona (€882.60) plus travel costs to refugees and an official enquiry recommended extending this to naturalised Swedish citizens.

Facing the music

A BELARUSIAN deported after the Swedish authorities rejected his asylum request was arrested as soon as he arrived in Belarus, state broadcaster Sveriges Radio announced on Wednesday August 28. He had fled after taking part in the 2020 protests that followed the re-election of Alexander Lukashenko.

GERMANY

Farewell, Jan

JAN, the world’s oldest sloth, died aged 54 at the zoo in Krefeld, near Dusseldorf. Born in the wild in 1969 he spent some time in Hamburg’s Hagenbeck Zoo until 1986, living the rest of his life in Krefeld. During this time, Jan fathered 22 pups, the last of which was born in March this year despite his advanced years.

Home-grown

LITHIUM producer, Vulcan Energy Resources, began the commissioning phase at its Frankfurt-Hocht works with power now reaching the plant via the main switchboard for the first time. Once all phases have concluded, the factory will produce battery-grade lithium to ensure Europe’s ‘raw materials independence’.

NETHERLANDS

Unseen danger

A MAN of 67 died after he was attacked and trampled by a herd of cows while walking in a nature area near Spaubeek (Limburg) which has since been closed to walkers. A witness explained later that he had a dog on a leash which made a move towards the cows, after which they turned on the man and ran him down.

Computer says no

KEY computer problems impacted several government offices and public services on August 28, with the Coast Guard and border control services temporarily affected. The reasons for the failures were not immediately detectible and investigators admitted they were unsure whether they were related.

Oasis ticket fiasco

OASIS fans are furious at Ticketmaster and concert promoters, accusing them of a ‘sickening’ and ‘scandalous’ handling of 2025’s reunion gigs ticket sales.

The band announced on Saturday, August 31 that all UK and Ireland dates had sold out in less than a day, while X users (Twitter) shared their

horror stories of how the ticket seller almost doubled prices from the already extortionate £148 to £355 after fans dad been waiting hours at their computers to secure their place at the Oasis Live ’25 shows.

Meanwhile, on ticket resale websites, prices varied between £537 and £14,104. On Saturday afternoon, Viagogo still

had a handful of standing tickets for the London shows ranging from £773 to £1,512. Seated tickets for London ranged from £655 to £5,971.

Original prices for a seat to watch the band at London’s Wembley Stadium began at £74.25, with the most expensive ticket a £506.25 pre-show party, exhibition and seated package.

Cardiff’s Principality Stadium shows, Edinburgh’s Murrayfield Stadium and Ireland’s Croke Park were all first listed at similar prices, while Manchester’s Heaton Park tickets started from £148.50, with only standing available alongside a number of hospitality and luxury packages.

Oasis told fans on Saturday to only buy tickets from the official websites amid reselling websites listing inflated prices for the Manchester rockers’ gigs. They added that resale tickets were probably fakes.

Euro Commission sued

ENVIRONMENTAL campaigners are to sue the European Commission claiming their new rules on greener planes are misleading and do not match European targets on emissions.

The new rules imposed by the EC will label some planes as ‘environmentally friendly’ investments, something refuted by environmentalists. NGOs Climate Action Network and the Global Legal Action Network claim that national limits on greenhouse gas emissions for transport and agriculture are unlawful.

The claim being made is that the thresholds set by the EC fail to reach the targets of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5ºC and Europe’s objective of cutting net emissions by 55 per cent by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.

‘Wealthy and historically big polluters should be moving faster’, according to the environmentalists. The EC’s limited rules, they argue, give ‘green certificates’ to po-

lluting industries who then receive ‘green finance’ from investors and banks. The European High Court has given the case priority and it is expected to be heard in 2025.

The idea of the EC is to get the aviation industry to invest in newer, so-called

‘green’ planes in the absence of zero-emissions planes. They also give green certificates to shipping companies that use liquid natural gas instead of diesel, while the gas is still a fossil fuel and still produces significant CO2.

Oasis on stage in Spain 2013.

CALPE 41 Club

Donna Williams

IF you are a former member of either the Round Table or 41 Clubs and have recently relocated to Spain, the Calpe 41 Club may be a great way for you to meet new people. It was established 18 years ago as part of a global network aimed at offering support and fostering social connections for men affiliated with Rotary Clubs worldwide.

After a vibrant summer, Calpe 41 Club is gearing up for an exhilarating autumn season. As they excitedly make all the preparations, they will soon unveil details of their upcoming events scheduled for the final four months of the year. Members can look forward to a Supper Party for visiting 41 Club members from

the UK, boules matches, lunch meetings, and a Christmas party.

In the meantime, they are kicking off the season with a get-together at their regular venue, the Hotel Gran Sol in Calpe. This will be a meeting and lunch on Thursday September 19, commencing at 12.15pm.

If that sounds like something you might enjoy, the club is always happy to accept new members and visitors. Whether you were previously a member of the Round Table or a 41 Club in the UK or Europe or simply consider yourself a like-minded individual, the club would be delighted to meet you.

For more information, reach out to the 2024 Chairman, Hugh Stewart, via email at hughiestewie@gmail.com

Magic Oktober Fest

MARK your calendars for the Magic Oktober Fest, a can’t-miss event for beer enthusiasts. Scheduled to run from September 9 to 30, this exciting festival will be held at multiple hotels, including Magic Robin Hood in Albir, Magic Natura and Magic Rock Garden, both in Benidorm, and Magic Tropical Splash in Finestrat.

If you stay at one of the participating hotels, you’ll receive a complimentary event entry and a free drink. However, if you prefer to visit for just a day or evening, you can purchase a separate pass.

Brought to the area by the esteemed Magic Costa Blanca Hotel Group, this festival promises a grand celebration with a diverse lineup of activities planned for each day. As you might expect, the event will include a wide variety of the best imported and crafted beers to try, and there will be three beer bars at various locations within each participating hotel. Food will be provided from a host of food trucks selling hot dogs and hamburgers,

with a weekly celebration of traditional German fare served buffet-style.

Entertainment will include a fun foam party, themed quizzes with prizes, karaoke, crazy bingo suitable for the whole family, a multi-adventure zone, a gaming zone, and virtual reality attractions. There will also be plenty of music, including live tribute acts and DJs. For further information visit, www.hoteles-costa blanca.com.

Credit: CALPE 41 Clubt

Soul & Motown

Donna Williams

IF you are a lover of Northern Soul and Motown, then you can’t miss the upcoming Northern Soul & Motown Party taking place at the Benidorm Palace. This event marks the first of its kind at this spectacular venue and promises to be an absolute blast!

Taking place on September 15 and 16 from 1.00pm, prepare for two incredible days filled with non-stop music from some of the industry’s most talented live performers and DJs. Witness electrifying performances by Northern Soul tribute bands The Signatures, and Do I Love You, offering authentic renditions of beloved classics.

Furthermore, dance the night away to the legendary founder of Wigan Casino, Russ Winstanley, and an incredible lineup of DJs

spinning the very best of Northern Soul and Motown hits. Not to mention, the top-notch sound system will completely transport you to the heart of the action.

Additionally, if you’re looking to kick off the excitement even earlier, be sure to attend the pre-party at The Soul Bar on September 13 and 14, running from noon until late. The Soul Bar offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for mingling with fellow soul enthusiasts and enjoying fantastic tunes courtesy of Fresh Radio, the online station supporting this event.

A two-day pass costs €65 and gives you access to all the shows and activities at Benidorm Palace. Food is available for an extra €10 per day. Tickets can be booked at www.benidormpalace.com or by calling 0034 965 851 660.

Bohemian

Paradise

THE artisan market, located in the main square of Altea, is a heartwarming destination for those who appreciate the bohemian. What sets this market apart is its exclusive focus on genuine artisans and their handcrafted goods. All stall holders are required to demonstrate that the items they’re selling have been personally created, a requirement that reflects the market’s deep commitment to promoting and supporting the local handicraft industry in Altea.

This commitment ensures that the artisans’ work receives the recognition it deserves due to its significant social and cultural value, making every visitor a part of

this noble cause.

The market, open from 7.00pm until midnight, is a treasure trove for those who love to explore. It offers visitors the opportunity to discover the diverse and unique offerings of around 20 different artisans.

These artisans are masters in the artisanal treatment of various materials including wood, silk, glass, and metal, promising a one-of-akind and exciting experience for every visitor.

Due to its significan-

ce, the Altea Handicrafts Fair has established itself as one of the premier markets of its kind in the entire Autonomous Community of Valencia. The event is organised in collaboration with the Altea Union of Artisans (UNART), which not only supports new artisans in getting started but also provides guidance and arranges cultural activities to complement the market experience.

The market will be open every night until Sunday September 15.

Fling called Swing

DENIA Town Council has recently announced an upcoming event titled ‘A Fling Called Swing’. This live music concert aims to blend youthful energy, dance, and social inclusivity. Scheduled for Monday September 9, the event will take place at 7.30pm in the scenic Placa del Consell.

Commencing the evening’s festivities will be a complimentary introductory workshop focused on the art of Lindy Hop. This workshop is the result of a collabo-

ration with the cultural swing collective La Marina Lindy Hop. Following this engaging workshop, a captivating concert will take place, during which attendees will have the opportunity to dance to vibrant live music. This will be performed by talented young musicians from various European countries, all of whom collaborate with Amicitia (an NGO for international volunteer camps).

The primary goal of this event is to advocate social integration and raise

awareness for individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), with the valuable support of youth associations in the Navy.

At the heart of the event are 16 talented musicians, aged 18 to 25, who will showcase their skills with 12 swinging musical numbers. They will be joined by La Marina Lindy Hop and members of the ADHD-16 association, creating an immersive and interactive musical experience for all participants.

Spiritual evenings

Donna Williams

AFTER the summer break, the Alfas Spiritual Friends Centre will resume its activities on Thursday September 12. The Centre welcomes everyone to join and participate in its series of spiritual evenings, which will be held at The Comm, where they have very kindly been allocated a new room which they love.

Details of their September programme are as follows:

September 12: Rose from Torrevieja will be taking the service, accompanied by a guest medium.

September 19: Ian Elliott, a clairvoyant medium born in Ireland and now living in Denmark, will be visiting.

September 26:The very popular Michelle Preston will be joining them from Elche.

Back by popular demand, they have arranged for se-

veral UK and international mediums to attend the services planned for October. In addition, there will be a number of much-requested mediums from Murcia and other areas. Further details of the October programme will be provided here and on the Alfas Spiritual Friends Facebook page in due course.

For those who wish to go along, the Centre is located downstairs at The Comm (previously known as the Forum Mare Nostrum), Camino del Pincho 2, l’Alfas del Pi, 03580, Ali-

Each service starts at 6.30pm and anyone looking for further information can contact Dot on 634 320 013, or via email at dorothydorothy608@ gmail.com.

Credit: Shutterstock:Mirko Macari

Credit: Alfas Spiritual Friends Centre

Carrer Pare Pere, 19, Denia, Alicante

634 34 34 90

We are open from Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 24:00 www.reinamoradenia.com

Menu September SALAD • COUSCOUS OR TAGINE • DESSERT AND A DRINK INCLUDED 15 EUROS

At Reina Mora we prepare recipes that have been passed from generation to generation in our family.

From the early hours of the morning our ovens are already at work with the finest ingredients, crafting the authentic delicacies that grace your table: Couscous, Tagines, Mechoui, Pastella... and, of course, our Moroccan sweets are freshly made each day, offering a single bite that will whisk you away to the vibrant flavours of West Africa."

10% discount for Euro Weekly News readers

Folk dance show

Donna Williams

GET ready for the summer cultural calendar’s next big event: the International Folk Dance Show of Denia in its 31st edition. Taking place from September 6 to 8, this spectacular event will once again grace the Plaça del Consell. The performances will kick off at 10.00pm on Friday and Saturday, and at 8.00pm on Sunday.

enjoy authentic Mediterranean cuisine with the most beautiful beaches in La Marina just 2 minutes away

Carrer Riu Grande, 1, 03779 Dénia, Alicante 965 75 53 32

Of fering a wide variety of amazing rice dishes and burgers to spectacular pastries and sweets.

Carr. de les Marines a Dénia, 196, 03700 Dénia, Alicante.

625 77 52 45

The festivities begin on Friday September 6, with a captivating performance by the Agrupacion de Proyecciones Folkloricas Alegrias y Tradiciones de Panama. Saturday September 7, will feature the mesmerising Ballet Flamenco Raices, helmed by the talented director and choreographer Jose Porcel.

As tradition dictates, the local group Dianium Dansa will bring the curtain down on Sunday, preceded by enthralling performances from the Ukrainian groups Zabava and the children’s Kvity Ukraine, representing the association Juntos Somos Mas Fuertes, as well as the folklore group of the Orchid Association, consisting of Colombian residents in Denia.

Get ready to witness a celebration of vibrant cultures and captivating performances.

Under the Sea

WITH the summer crowds slowly disappearing, September offers the perfect time to venture under the sea through snorkelling. Javea, in particular, presents an array of breathtaking locations for snorkelling enthusiasts to discover.

This coastal paradise showcases an extraordinary underwater landscape, complete with concealed caves and a diverse array of marine creatures. Here are a few suggestions to help spark your curiosity:

Cala en Calo: A hidden cove famous for its crystal clear waters and snorkelling. The beach is only accessible by sea and is very protected from human impact.

Cova del Llop Mari: A spectacular sea cave with diverse wildlife and colourful geological formations.

Cala el Pom: A secluded cove with crystal clear water, ideal for snorkelling and observing the rocky seabed. It features small

underwater caves and a stunning waterfall and is only accessible by sea, offering privacy and beauty away from popular sandy beaches.

Cap Negre: A spectacular rock formation with striking colours, representing natural geological processes on the coast of Javea. Portixol Island: Featuring a magnificent cave and a famous ‘blue lagoon’ with turquoise water.

Cala Tang: A secluded cove perfect for snorkelling and cliff jumping. The unique rock formations offer opportunities for both beginners and thrill-seekers.

San Antonio: Snorkelling in the vicinity of San Antonio guarantees a captivating experience, as you may be fortunate enough to encounter dolphins, seahorses and even whales.

For details of excursions, visit www.siesta advisor.com.

Credit: Shutterstock: Ana del Castillo

Padel club

Donna Williams

LOOKING for an active way to spend your Fridays and Sundays? Join the Fun Padel session at Costa Blanca North Padel Club. These sessions take place every Friday and Sunday from 2.30 to 5.30pm at the Cumbre Padel Courts, Calle Thomas-Wilson in Benitachell. The best part is that no booking or membership is required. Simply show up, play a set, and have a great time. The only stipulation is that participants need to be aged 14 or over.

The cost is €4 for members and €5 for non-members.

The Costa Blanca Padel Club is also

hosting a ladies’ cat 2b team tournament on Sunday September 8. If you’re interested, registration will kick off at 9.30am, and the tournament is scheduled to continue throughout the day, ending at approximately 5.00pm. Each team is guaranteed a minimum of three games, and the entry fee per player is €12.

Enquiries should be sent via WhatsApp to Gary on 0034 634 351 671 (English) or Josh on 0034 634 306 009 (Spanish) The club also offers Daily, Quarterly and Annual Memberships and further information, including fees and how to join, can be found at www.ncb-padel. co.uk.

Credit: Pixabay:IG@fotojonas

Brussels Gardens Phone ban

Harry Sinclair

AN online tool is helping Brussels residents better connect with green spaces and nature spots.

Brussels Gardens is a website managed by the Brussels Environment Agency, and acts as an online directory for parks and forests in the capital.

There are many green spaces and natural spots in and around the capital, offering the perfect place for family activities, quiet reading, historical monuments, or local flora and fauna.

In a press release published on Friday August 30, Brussels Environment announced that the site has received some much-needed updates, smoothing out the user experience.

With the new updates, it is easier than ever for a user to find what they’re looking for from Brussels’ green spaces with the ability to filter searches and locate nearby forests or parks tailored to what the user wants.

“Whether you’re looking for a playground, a quiet spot by the water, or want to learn more about local flora and fauna, Brussels Gardens has something for everyone,” the agency stated.

Brussels Gardens displays all that the city’s green spaces have to offer, including a selection of walking, cycling and running trails to choose from.

Anna Akopyan FRENCH authorities plan to trial a ban on mobile phones at schools for children up to the age of 15; a ‘digital pause’ which if proven successful, would be implemented from January 2025.

and bullying.

guidance, which while being followed in Madrid, Galicia, and Leon, is disregarded in other regions of Spain.

portant information including each route’s length, gradient, location and the municipalities and green areas crossed, as well as users being able to see which outdoor summer bars are nearby.

Users can also find interactive experiences to partake in on the Brussels Gardens site, as well as users being able to see details about upcoming events and important resources in all Brussels parks and forests.

Around 200 secondary schools in France will trial a prohibition of mobile phones, requiring students to hand over their devices during the morning reception.

In March this year, a report was published by the French government declaring that there was “a very clear consensus on the direct and indirect negative effects of digital devices on sleep, on being sedentary, a lack of physical activity and the risk of being overweight and even obese … as well as on sight.”

With the rapid progress of technology, teachers and parents have been growing concerned about children’s use of smartphones, often leading to mental health problems, lack of focus,

In February this year, the Westminster government issued a non-statutory guidance stating that schools should prohibit phones, although individual headteachers should “develop and implement a policy… which reflects their school’s individual contexts and needs.”

In Germany and The Netherlands, it is too, a recommendation and not a legal obligation to prohibit mobile phones, which reflects the government’s awareness of today’s digitalisation.

French schools are trying to ban mobile phones.

The site also provides im-

Supermarket dating in Spain

Letara Draghia

IN Spain, grocery stores like Mercadona and Lidl have become surprising venues for singles seeking romance, with trends turning traditional shopping trips into matchmaking opportunities. This trend began at Mercadona, where shoppers looking for love were encouraged to signal their availability by placing an upside-down pineapple in their trolley. Between 7pm and 8pm, the supermarket’s aisles have transformed into a vibrant social scene, with playful signals like chocolate for casual interests and legumes for serious relationships. The trend has even spread to other stores, with El Corte Ingles being another popular spot for romantic encounters.

However, this unconventional dating scene has also led to unexpected issues. Recently, a mass gathering at a Mercadona in Bilbao, organised via social media, overwhelmed the store, forcing the Local Police to intervene. The situation was quickly brought under control, but it highlighted the growing popularity - and potential chaos - of this trend.

Not to be outdone, Lidl has launched its own campaign, ‘La Hora del Amor’ (The Hour of Love), encouraging singles to visit between 6pm and 7pm. Instead of pineapples, Lidl suggests using watermelons in your trolley as a signal of interest. Shoppers can even enjoy discounts during this time, adding a nancial incentive to the mix.

Culture capital

SICILIAN town, Agrigento has been crowned the 2025 Capital of Culture despite its heavy in uence from the Italian Ma a, which local authorities work hard to suppress.

The Sicilian countryside is known for its Ma a heritage; faced with cases of narcotra cking, kidnapping, and extortion.

Despite its reputation, it’s set to become the 2025 Italian Culture Capital. Shifting the focus away from the controversy, Agrigento police have now been authorised to inspect gift shops and issue nes to shop sellers who o er Maa-related products.

These include everything from magnets and t-shirts to shot glasses and images of Sicilians in traditional dress holding the ‘lupara’ (a sawn-o shotgun). Agrigento mayor Francesco Micciche stated:

“Considering that the

sale of such products in the territory of Agrigento humiliates the local community, which has been committed to spreading the culture of legality for years, I order a ban on the sale of any type of object that praises, or refers in any way and form, to the ma a and organised crime.”

Agrigento’s diverse heritage has often been discre-

dited; leaving out the fact that it is a UNESCO heritage site and holds archaeological remains from the fth and sixth centuries BC. With ancient, Baroque, and modern architecture, a cultural programme of 44 projects which explores the relationship between nature and humanity will focus on the more inspiring and honourable part of Agrigento.

Agrigento’s heritage.

Upside-down pineapples and watermelons: Codes for love.

Europe holiday gap

THE ability to take vacations varies significantly across the European Union, highlighting economic disparities. According to Eurostat, nearly 29 per cent of EU citizens aged 16 and over couldn’t afford a week-long trip in 2023.

While 62 per cent of EU citizens took at least one nonwork trip in 2022, this only includes trips with overnight stays. This means that 38 per cent of EU citizens didn’t take any holidays that year. Financial constraints are a primary factor limiting vacation access within the EU.

Families choose to take shorter, more frequent breaks.

Countries with stronger economies tend to have higher rates of vacation-taking. Spending power on vacations also varies significantly across Europe. Luxembourg

and Austria had the highest tourist spending per night, at €175 and €154, respectively.

Several factors contribute to the disparities between even neighbouring Euro-

pean countries. The greatest of this must be economic inequality. Holidays are a luxury and are closely linked to individuals’ economic conditions as well as those of their country.

The study also doesn’t take into account holidays less than a week-long. It could be that families choose to take shorter but more frequent breaks in some countries.

Either way, holidays are culturally and socially important and can strengthen family bonds. Let’s hope that as economic conditions improve, more families will be

Sauna society

MORE Swedes are becoming naturists; “This is an antidote,” said Swedish artist Cristian Quinteros Sotos about his work Bath season at Stockholm’s Fringe Festival, which explores how nude bathing can normalise society’s approach to the naked body.

With his experimental work, Sotos makes art out of sauna baths, wanting to “normalise the body” while we are fed manipulated images of bodies on social media. “I see this as an antidote to that, here you can come and look exactly how you look, it’s the opposite of social media where I’m expected to show my best side.”

According to Sweden’s Naturist Association, nudists in Sweden have been on

the rise since the hit of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. This has especially been the case with sauna visitors, as Swedes begin to learn about the healthy benefits of cleansing and connecting with the body. Cristian Quinteros Sotos is fascinated by sauna culture, as he considers it a place isolated from society’s barriers; “All prejudices and expectations about the body just disappear in the sauna, there we can meet as people regardless of where we came from. As a person who is racialised in Sweden, there is a care for me in this place by people who might not have given it to me in other contexts.”

He argued that when “taken into a larger perspective,” sauna practice can contribute to “a caring society.”

When summer ends and so does your relationship: breaking up after the sunshine season

ARE you itching to get back home? Can’t stand him/her anymore? Well, it’s better to break up in summer than on Valentine’s Day, right? At least then you won’t have to dodge questions about why you’re not sending flowers!

But let’s be real: summer in Spain is like an episode of ‘The Bachelor’ on steroids, with a major ‘overbooking’ of breakups and broken hearts. My Facebook status went from ‘in a relationship’ to ‘single’, and when I look in the mirror, it says, ‘Nah, nah, you are double!’

Here’s a little joke to lighten the mood: I heard about this guy who’s a massive football fan. He bought two Super Bowl tickets months in advance, only to realise they were for the same day as his wedding. He shelled out $2,000 each for the tickets, so he posted on Facebook asking if anyone wanted to take his place.

He said, “The ceremony is at 3.00pm at First Baptist Church, and her name is Tiffany.”

Talk about relationships!

So, why do couples crash and burn in the summer?

According to the statistics in Spain, relationship crises spike during the summer. The more time couples spend together, the higher the chance of a breakup. Experts blame the ‘excessive togetherness’

phenomenon.

During the rest of the year, work and social life act as a sort of relationship buffer. But in summer, when you’re joined at the hip 24/7, what was already on the rocks might just crumble into a full-blown disaster.

Add to this the circus of caring for kids, pets, keeping each other entertained, the financial strain, the exhaustion from activities you’d normally avoid, and the sweltering heat... and voilà, you’ve got the ultimate recipe for a relationship catastrophe!

And when summer ends, the fun evaporates, giving way to bills and daily stress, the last thing you need is a breakup adding to the chaos.

In a summer crisis, breaking up might not be the best move. Communicating, accepting, talking, committing, and tolerating are crucial.

But above all, there should be love because love can mend almost anything.

As the saying goes: the only measure of love is to love without measure.

Not everything is as terrible or fantastic as it seems. As my wise sister Verana says: things aren’t inherently good or bad; it’s how you handle them that makes them one or the other.

Remember, this is a one-way trip, not a rehearsal. Be happy and love the person you’re with.

Don’t become just another summer statistic!

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

MOVALDI’S AMERICAN 2 CENTS SNAPSHOT FROM COAST TO COAST

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Mind the gap

TESCO’S chief executive Ken Murphy earned £10 million (€11.8 million) in 2023, 431 times the wages of a typical Tesco employee, making more in one day than UK staff averaged in a year. The size of the UK’s biggest grocery chain pay gap was bigger than that of any other FTSE 100 company, Mail on Sunday found.

Best-loved

ESTRELLA GALICIA president Ignacio Rivera has always said he wants the company’s beer to be the best-loved, not necessarily the most-sold. Nevertheless, the brewer now produces an annual 503 million litres of beer and although it hopes eventually to see revenues of €1 billion, sales already reach €829 million.

Seal of success

ENGINEERING firm AES, which makes seals for pumps, including those installed in the Thames Barrier, announced record pre-tax profits of £56 million (€66.4 million) in 2023, compared with £48 million (€56.9 million) the previous year. Founded in 1979 by Chris Rea, AES now employs 2,000 staff in 43 countries.

Testing, testing

IKEA has chosen Madrid and Oslo to trial its pre-owned furniture marketplace.

“The trial will continue until December to understand customers’ reactions and what it would mean for us from a business perspective,” said Jesper Brodin, chief executive of Ingka Group which operates Ikea stores in Spain.

Going under

THAMES WATER said it needed to raise customers’ bills by more than £260 (€308.43), predicting that the company would otherwise struggle to fund itself. The Ofwat-approved increase would leave Thames Water in a situation that left its activities neither “financeable nor investible” the company warned.

STAT OF WEEK

€1.525 billion

share buyback programme, launched on August 27 by Santander Bank, was equivalent to 25 per cent of profits during the first half of 2024.

Burberry’s FTSE 100 slide

THE next quarterly review is likely to see Burberry and easyJet leave the UK’s FTSE 100 stock market index.

Insurer Hiscox and Tritax Big Box, also face relegation to lower-tier FTSE 250 although interest has focused on the more recognisable Burberry and easyJet names.

easyJet was only promoted in March 2024, but Burberry’s slide after 15 years as an FTSE regular came as a shock but not necessarily a surprise.

With a current market value of just under £2.6 billion (€3 billion) that is 70 per cent below that of April 2023, Burberry has been one of the worst-performing FTSE 100 companies so far this year.

Sales over the 13 weeks to June 29 were 21 per cent down on the same period last year, and the company has suspended its dividend.

The demand for luxury goods is dwindling globally and Burberry has been particularly affected by the slowdown in China.

Despite an early boom in 2021 as the world emerged from the pandemic, this crucial market has taken longer to recover than expected.

Jonathan Akeroyd, Burberry chief executive since 2021, is held to have increased Burberry’s woe after deciding to take the company still further upmarket and alienating many perennial customers.

Akeroyd made a rapid exit “by mutual agreement with the board” on July 15 and was replaced by Joshua Schulman, former chief executive of the Coach handbag brand in a bid to revive Burberry’s waning fortunes.

Schulman was also at the receiving end of a £9.2 million (€10.9 million) ‘golden hello.’

Talgo takeover derailed

SPANISH Cabinet ministers vetoed a Hungarian consortium’s hopes of taking over Talgo. The €619 million offer from Ganz-Mavag was “appealing to shareholders,” the train manufacturer said, but the government mistrusted the deal from the outset as the consortium has links to Hungary’s president Victor Orban and there were suspicions that Russian money was involved.

Cabinet ministers analysed documents from the Foreign Invest-

Back in the Top Ten

AMANCIO ORTEGA is again one of the world’s 10 richest people. The Inditex founder and principal shareholder was ranked 10th on August 28 when he was worth €110.25 billion, according to Forbes. Nor was this Ortega’s first time amongst the world’s super-billionaires, as his €72.33 billion fortune put him in ahead of Bill Gates as the world’s richest person in October 2015 for some hours.

He returned briefly in September 2016 and August 2017, before being overtaken by Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos and Bernard Arnault.

Looking to float again

TENDAM, whose labels include Cortefiel and Woman’s Secret, posted revenues of €550.2 million during the first five months of its financial year.

That was 6.4 per cent more than during the same period in 2023 and by the end of the company’s half-year which ended on August 31, Tendam calculated that this should have risen to between 6.7 and 6.9 per cent.

The company dropped plans for a €2.5 billion listing on Spain’s stock exchange in late spring and is now said to be considering a flotation this autumn or before February 28, the close of its financial year.

THE UK defence firm BAE Systems announced in August that its half-year revenues had increased to £13.4 billion, 13 per cent more than in 2023.

As anxieties regarding Russia have grown, Nato countries are increasing their stockpiles and BAE’s £74.1 billion (€87.9 billion) orderbook is its largest ever.

“We will keep investing in new technologies, facilities and our people, so we can deliver on our record order backlog, and help our government customers stay ahead in an uncertain world,” BAE’s chief executive Charles Woodburn said

ment Committee (Jinvex) which included reports from the National Intelligence Service and the National Security Council.

They concluded that the operation would entail “risks to national security and public order” and announced on August 27 that the transaction would not go through.

Following the Cabinet meeting, government spokeswoman Pilar Alegria declined to give details on the grounds that Talgo was a stock exchange-listed company.

No phishing allowed

WHO hasn’t received a ‘phishing’ text message, ostensibly from el Corte Ingles, Correos or a Spanish high street bank?

Victims learn they are the lucky recipients of special offer, asked to pick up a parcel or told to contact their bank with the sole aim of providing scammers with their personal details.

The Change.org initiative wants to set up a web page, supervised by Spain’s National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) and linked to the telephone companies, where members of the public can report the number responsible for the fake announcement.

After a certain number of calls, the offending number would be blocked and then passed on to the police.

AFTER a difficult 2022, Victoria Beckham Ltd’s sales rose by 52 per cent to £89 million (€105.59 million) in 2023.

As a result, 2022’s losses of £900,000 (€1.07 million) were slimmed down last year to £200,000 (€237,255). Sales growth was initially assisted by a brand revamp in 2017 following a £30 million (€35.59 million) investment from private equity group NEO while both NEO and Beckham’s footballer husband helped to keep the business afloat in 2022 with a £6.9 million injection.

UNILEVER, which owns products as diverse as Marmite and Lynx, is considering the sale of its Kate Somerville skincare and REN brands.

City sources quoted by Sky News said that Unilever has engaged PricewaterhouseCoopers to sound out potential buyers without specifying the sums involved. This latest move follows Unilever’s announcement last March that it intended to demerge its ice-cream division which includes Wall’s, Magnum, Ben & Jerry’s and Carte d’Or.

BURBERRY: The London-headquartered fashion label set for FTSE 100 relegation.

Photo credit:

Photo credit: lamoncloa.gob.es

PILAR ALEGRIA: Government spokeswoman declined to give details of Talgo decision.

3I

LONDON - FTSE 100

524,01K

Beazley 749,5 752 743 208,49K Berkeley 5.000,00 5.025,00 4.960,00 11,1K

BP 433,9 438,2 433,75 4,3M British American Tobacco 2.841,00

Euro

EUR/GBP: Unchanged at £0.84

EUR/USD: Up from $1.08 to $1.11

The euro trended broadly higher over the past month, with the single currency’s negative correlation with the US dollar offering notable support.

EUR has also been lifted by a risk-averse market mood in recent weeks.

However, the euro’s ascent has not come without its challenges, with some mixed Eurozone economic releases infusing volatility in EUR exchange rates throughout August.

As August comes to a close the focus will be on the Eurozone’s latest consumer price index, as a cooling of inflation this month could stoke expectations for an interest rate cut from the European Central Bank (ECB) in September.

Currency outlook: Euro supported by USD weakness, US dollar slumps to new multi-month lows

Pound

GBP/EUR: Down from €1.19 to €1.18

GBP/USD: Up from $1.29 to $1.31

A subdued end to July paved the way for further weakness in the pound at the start of August, with the currency extending its losses as the Bank of England (BoE) delivered its first interest rate cut since 2020.

Sterling then remained on the defensive as the market panic over a potential US recession caused markets to start pricing in a more aggressive pace of

policy unwinding from the BoE through the remainder of 2024.

The pound turned a corner in mid-August as GBP investors welcomed a flood of broadly positive UK data, with the latest UK jobs, GDP and retail sales data all outpacing expectations.

Coupled with the subsequent release of stronger-than-expected UK PMIs, this caused investors to trim bets for a BoE rate cut in September and revived Sterling sentiment in the second half of the month.

Looking ahead, if the BoE ultimately opts to leave rates on

hold in September it may help to underpin the pound in the coming weeks.

US Dollar

USD/GBP: Down from £0.77 to £0.75

USD/EUR: Down from €0.92 to €0.89

The US dollar faced notable selling pressure over the past few weeks, with USD exchange rates sliding to new multi-month lows.

The USD selling bias was initially triggered by a weaker-than-expected US payroll print, which stoked fears

of a looming US recession and fuelled bets for a bumper 50bps rate cut from the Federal Reserve in September.

While these fears quickly evaporated as Fed rate cut bets were trimmed, the US dollar remained on the defensive through the second half of August, with another slump coming in the wake of Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s dovish speech at the bank’s annual Jackson Hole symposium.

The Fed is widely expected to cut rates when it next meets next month. If the bank signals that this will be followed by further cuts through the remained of 2024 then the US dollar may test new lows.

Currencies Direct have helped over 430,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

It could all still work

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

ONE thing I did learn on a recent London trip was not to engage an Uber driver in any political discussion. In the main, most Uber employees are from different societies. True to any London taxi drivers form, they are, (or consider themselves to be!) experts on just about any subject you care to mention - with current affairs undoubtedly a favourite. The problem is, once they start they are difficult to stop.

In around a dozen journeys I found out more about Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq than any ‘Arab Spring’ discussions I’ve had since the unprecedented acts of Blair and Bush got us into it all. The open attitude of these cabbies rather sums up the feeling I got from most of London’s mostly welcome ethnic population. The majority are extremely upbeat. From shop assistants to museum guides, I found them generally polite, enthusiastic, confident and certainly not backward in coming forward. In fact, while sho-

pping in a local chemist I remarked to my companion that we needed candles.

Her light-hearted suggestion of buying ‘fork candles,’ a la the Two Ronnie’s, brought a roar of laughter from the Pakistani assistant, who then proceeded to regale us with jokes from his favourite TV shows, one of which happened to be the wonderful old chestnut Fawlty Towers - ‘I come from Barcelona,’ he chortled, ‘I know nothing’!

Unfortunately, this light-hearted attitude doesn’t extend the Brits. Personally, I think the locals simply don’t know what’s hit them. To me, most of them appeared to be living under a cloud of doomy acceptance. And who can blame them? They have been stumped by Starmer, paralysed by the politically correct brigade, fleeced of free speech and deprived of political enthusiasm to the point of utter submission.

They also appear to have relinquished, to my mind, one of their most endearing and strongest weapons, the wonderful British sense of humour. Any attempt at a merry quip, particularly to shop assistants, is met by an icy glare of suspicion while they

apparently try and work out whether you are being sexist or in some way abusive. The look I got when, purely by force of habit I said thanks ‘love’ to a checkout girl (person!) had me looking back over my shoulder to see if she was dialing 999! Just how long can anyone go on living under these circumstances without something snapping?

Oddly enough, I actually do believe it could all still work, but not under this bunch of indecisive political assassins. What they really need is a Winnie or Thatcher. Someone to give the British citizens a degree of optimism. A leader who can instill a national ambition to somehow succeed in this unprecedented diversity of existence they are all endeavouring to adopt. The one thing I will miss however is the politeness. ‘Excuse me, oops I’m sorry, my fault’ and after you’s’, were expressions one doesn’t hear quite as often as one should in the country of our choice. Ah well, at least we get plenty of sunshine, happy days and welcome copas de vino.

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.

Paris transport difficulties

DESPITE promises of improved acces sibility for the 2024 Paralympic Games, many individuals with disabilities continue to face significant challenges navigating the French capital. Franck Maille, a former para-athlete and representative of APF France Handicap, shared his experiences navigating Paris’ public transportation system.

Maille described the difficulties of using the RER, a suburban train system, which is often inaccessible for wheelchair users. Even when lifts are available, navigating the system requires assistance from rail agents and careful planning due to potential equipment failures. For individuals with disabilities, navigating Paris can be physically and mentally exhausting. The journey often involves long distances, crowded spaces, and the need for constant vigilance. The lack of accessibility in the city’s infrastructure can lead to feelings of isolation and frustration.

While some progress has been made, particularly in terms of wheelchair-accessible taxis, the Paris metro system remains largely inaccessible. The city’s leadership acknowledges the need for improvements but faces significant challenges in terms of funding and infrastructure. Activists like Maille are calling for urgent action to address these issues and create a more inclusive city for individuals with disabilities. The Paralympic Games offer an opportunity to showcase Paris’ commitment.

Spaghetti wars

CHEFS and gastronomes recoil in horror as Heinz introduces tins of spaghetti carbonara to supermarket shelves.

The unveiling of Heinz’s new tinned easy-meal set X (Twitter) alight with declarations of disgust recently. Top Italian chef Alessandro Pipero asked “Do you mean in a tin, like cat food?” on hearing that Heinz was promoting its new canned version of the classic Italian dish, while Wanted in Rome on X reported Italians saying that they “wouldn’t even give it to a stray cat.’”

Part of the outrage is what many food lovers see as the continued ‘Americanisation’ of Italian cuisine.

Ask any Italian and they will firmly assure you that, unlike the Heinz variety, Spaghetti Carbonara does not contain cream or bacon or parsley, while the ingredients on the

The new Heinz Spaghetti Carbonara.

Heinz tin list bacon, cornflour, skimmed milk powder, cheese powder, sugar, garlic flavouring, onion extract and dried parsley. This quick and easy to prepare classic ‘carbonara’ part of the recipe only has four ingredients: egg yolks, black pepper, guanciale and olive oil.

The internationalisa-

tion of classic regional dishes has been berated by many in recent years with TV chefs like Nigella Lawson who was accused of killing Italian food when in 2017 she added 60ml of double cream to her version, or Jamie Oliver who very nearly started a war with Spain by adding chorizo to his idea of Paella.

Wheelchair users face many inaccessible areas.

SOFAS - CHAIRS - CORNER SUITES - SOFA BEDS - OCCASIONAL PIECES - FIRESIDE CHAIRS - RECLINER CHAIRS - POWER RISER RECLINER CHAIRS

Olives aid stroke victims

STUDIES at the university of Jaen have discovered a compound in olive oil may help the recovery of stroke victims.

Hydroxytyrosol, present in olives, improves the treatment of patients who have suffered a stroke.

According to the Fundación Descubre, this opens up the possibility for further and larger-scale studies.

Strokes are suffered at a rate of every six minutes in Spain. Caused by a suffocation of nerve cells in the bra-

Hair havoc hacks

in, the after-effects of which, whether mild of severe, lead to a lack of coordination to reduced vision, language difficulties, cognitive or sensory disorders, or even death.

Recovery depends on the level of initial damage and proper rehabilitation to restore, as far as possible, the brain damage caused.

BAD hair days can be a real confidence buster, but there are several hacks to manage unruly hair effectively. Start with dry shampoo to combat greasy roots; it absorbs excess oil and adds much-needed volume. For frizz, spray a toothbrush with hairspray and gently smooth down flyaways for a neat, polished look.

The messy bun is a quick and stylish solution for uncooperative hair. Twist your hair into a bun and secure it with pins or an elastic band for an effortlessly chic style. Hair accessories like headbands, scarves, and clips can instantly elevate your look while concealing imperfections.

In Jaen University’s article, ‘Hydroxytyrosol, a Promising Supplement in the Management of Human Stroke’, published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, researchers present the results of the exploratory study carried out on patients who have been administered hydroxytyrosol (HT), a compound extracted from the olive tree, with high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

At the neurological level, different tests to measure the level of deterioration, such as the so-called Rankin scale, which assesses the degree of disability or dependence in daily activities, indicated that patients supplemented with HT presented excellent results.

Prep your hair the night before by braiding damp hair to wake up with beautiful beachy waves, adding texture and reducing frizz without heat. For curly hair, revitalise your curls with a spray bottle filled with water and a few drops of leave-in conditioner, scrunching to reshape them.

Changing your parting can also disguise greasy roots or flat hair. A zigzag parting adds volume and makes root growth less noticeable. With these simple tricks, you can confidently tackle any bad hair day.

Summer flu fixes

SUMMER flu, though less common than its winter counterpart, can still knock you off your feet with symptoms like fever, body aches, and fatigue. Fortunately, several home remedies can help alleviate discomfort and speed recovery.

Hydration is key - drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and clear broths to stay hydrated and flush out toxins. Incorporating

ginger and honey into your tea can soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation due to ginger’s antiviral properties and honey’s natural soothing effect.

Rest is equally important; allow your body time to fight the virus by getting plenty of sleep.

Boost your immune system with vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, lemons, and strawberries, which help fight

off infection. Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water can relieve congestion and ease respiratory discomfort.

Adding a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint oil to the water can enhance this effect.

Finally, chicken / vegetable soup remains a time-tested remedy, providing hydration and nutrients to help you recover from summer flu more quickly.

A tantouring trend

Shutterstock Roman Samborskyi

TANTOURING is a beauty trend that combines tanning and contouring to create a sculpted, sun-kissed look without the need for daily makeup application. Instead of using

traditional contouring powders or creams, tantouring involves applying a self-tanner to the areas of the face where you’d typically contour, like the hollows of the cheeks, sides of the nose, and along the jawline. This technique offers a semi-permanent contour that can last from three to five days, depending on the product used and your skincare routine. For a more natural result, choose a self-tanner that’s only a shade or two darker than your natural skin tone, and apply it with precision using a make-up brush.

To remove tantouring if the results aren’t what you expected, gently exfoliate the skin with a mild scrub or a washcloth to fade the self-tanner. For a quicker fix, use a self-tanner remover or apply a paste of baking soda and water to the area. Always moisturise afterward to keep your skin smooth and hydrated.

5 Things not to do on a plane

FLYING can be a convenient way to travel, but there are certain actions passengers should avoid.

1. Remaining seated for long periods can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a con-

dition where blood clots form in the legs. To prevent this, get up and walk around the cabin periodically, or do leg exercises while seated.

2. Low humidity levels can lead to dehydration.

Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine and drink plenty of water during the flight to stay hydrated and prevent headaches and dry skin.

3. Airplanes can harbour many germs and bacteria. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, to reduce the risk of infections. Use hand sanitiser and wash your hands regularly.

4. Walking barefoot in the cabin, particularly in the bathroom, exposes you to bacteria and germs. Always wear shoes or socks when moving around the plane.

5. Overconsumption of alcohol on a flight can lead to dehydration, dizziness, and impaired judgement. Alcohol also has a stronger effect at higher altitudes, increasing these risks.

By being mindful of these practices, you can ensure a safer and healthier flying experience.

By Karan Sud Dental

Good oral hygiene

BLEEDING gums can be a concerning oral health issue that many individuals experience at some point in their lives. It is important to understand why gums bleed, whether it is a serious condition, and how to effectively treat it.

Why

Do Gums Bleed?

There are several reasons why gums may bleed, ranging from mild to severe.

The most prevalent cause of bleeding gums is gingivitis, which occurs due to the buildup of plaque along the gumline. This leads to inflammation and irritation, making the gums more prone to bleeding which can be due to poor oral hygiene, caused by inadequate brushing and flossing techniques.

Certain medications, such as blood thinners, can increase the risk of bleeding gums. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional regarding potential side effects. Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can make gums more sensitive and susceptible to bleeding. While occasional bleeding gums

may not necessarily indicate a severe problem, it should not be ignored. Persistent bleeding can be a sign of underlying issues, If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a more advanced stage of gum disease. This condition can lead to tooth loss and damage to the supporting structures of the teeth.

Fortunately, there are effective treatment options available to address bleeding gums and prevent further complications. It is crucial to consult a dentist for a proper diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

Practising good oral hygiene is fundamental in preventing and treating bleeding gums. This includes brushing twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. Dentists can perform a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing inflammation and bleeding. If you would like an appointment with our dentist or hygienist you can book online at www. ksuddental.com.

Marriage is no giveaway

IN English-speaking countries it is normal for the bride’s father to walk her to the altar where her future husband awaits her.

Although this is not a tradition in Lutheran Sweden, where it is normal for the bride and groom to walk down the aisle together, more women are asking to be ‘given away’ by their father.

Sociologists put the trend down to the influence of Hollywood films, global television and even the social media, together with the fact that King Carl Gustaf walked his daughter Crown Princess Victoria part of the way to the altar when she married in 2010.

It’s up to Church of Sweden pastors to decide whether a bride’s father can give her away, and some have no problem with the tendency.

Others are less enthusiastic.

Sara Waldenfors, a pastor from Nylose, Gothenburg, who belongs to the Social Democrat (SAP) opposition party, and Jesper Eneroth, an MP for the SAP, want a ban on the popular practice.

There was no escaping the patriarchal symbolism of a father giving away his daughter, Waldenfors said.

Credit:alteadigital.es

SWEDISH WEDDINGS: Bride and groom usually walk to the altar together.

I’ll tell you a funny story

MIKE SENKER IN MY OPINION

I’M quite fed up with the state of the world right now so instead of moaning about a myriad of annoying things, I’m going to tell you a funny story and hopefully brighten your day.

When our daughter was young we used to spend summers and Easter in Spain and every Christmas in Orlando, Florida doing the whole Disney experience and we loved it. So this one morning we packed our backpack with every conceivable thing we might need - change of clothes for Sarah, sun hat, sun cream, raincoat, umbrella, jumper, snacks, drinks, spare everything. The backpack was huge, but I was t and healthy way back then so I sling it on my back and we’re good to go. I have on my Timberland hiking boots as I’m in for a long day of walking miles.

wrong.” Nothing - not a smile, a snigger, an acknowledgement - nothing. Patti, at this point, is sliding down the wall laughing so hard. When the lift arrives at the ground oor and the doors open, the hotel foyer is full of men in tails and women in magnicent ball gowns.

And there is a huge sign explaining that this is the rst day of the Fred Astaire Ballroom Dancing Championships. Not one to resist a challenge I march up to the registration desk and state, “I’d like to enter the ballroom dancing competition.” Behind me Patti is now on the oor laughing hysterically, but the Americans don’t really understand the English dry sense of humour so the receptionist didn’t quite know what to make of me or my request. Anyway, su ce to say they wouldn’t let me take part!

“The relatively new trend that the father walks the bride down the aisle and passes her over to her new husband is not in our church tradition,” she told the Observer.

“Even though the scene feels nice for future couples, we can’t disregard what it symbolises: a father handing over a minor virgin to her new guardian.”

Granada’s hidden gems!

NAMED either after the pomegranates (granadas in Spanish) that grow here or the Moorish name Karnattah (possibly meaning ‘hill of strangers’), Granada boasts a fascinating history.

This city, a firm favourite with tourists, was once home to Iberians (Elibyrge in the fifth century BC) and Romans (Illiberis). Later, it became the last Moorish stronghold in Spain, conquered by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella in 1492.

Granada is a treasure trove of architecture. Splendid Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical churches, convents, palaces and mansions line the streets. At the heart of the city is the Gothic Cathedral with its Royal Chapel, housing the tombs of the famous monarchs and adorned with jasper and colourful marble. Art lovers will find plenty to admire inside, including works by sculptor Alonso Cano.

Head to the Albaicín, Granada’s oldest quarter, and wander its narrow, cobbled streets lined with cármenes (Moorish-style houses). Across the Darro River lies the Al-

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.

hambra, the Insta-friendly Moorish palace, along with its guardian fortress, the Alcazaba, and the Generalife, a summer retreat for Moorish sultans. History buffs amongst you will lap up the Alcázar, a 14th-century palace built for Moorish queens, and the 13th-century Cuarto Real de Santo Domingo villa. The Alhambra and Generalife were declared UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1984, the Albaicín following suit in 1994.

So, put on your walking shoes and get exploring!

Nora Johnson’s 13 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Girl across the Lake’ (www.nora-johnson. net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

We get in to the lift and just as the doors are about to close a very tall gentleman, dressed in full tails and very shiny shoes, steps daintily in to the lift. I look him up and down and he looks me up and down. Eventually I say, “One of us is dressed

Another time I’ll tell you the story of how I tried to blag my way in to the Reebok Instructors Convention in Las Vegas by trying to convince the doorman that my fat friend and I were the ‘befores’. We didn’t succeed that time either, but G-d loves a tryer. If you like these stories and they make you smile please let me know - I have plenty more.

Email: mikesenker@gmail.com

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

VIEWS OF A GRUMPY OLD MAN

€15,000 to move to Extremadura

EXTREMADURA, the Spanish autonomous community with the lowest population is offering to pay €15,000 to digital nomads who make the region their home.

The name of the digital nomad has been tarnished in recent years as they have been accused of compounding the gentrification of towns and villages and subsequent rising house prices, and displacing the local populations. But in one place in Spain, remote workers are still being welcomed with open arms, and cash.

Bordering Portugal, with no beaches or coastline, the region is steeped in history, not least in its abundance of Roman remains. It is also teeming with wildlife, beautiful mountain ranges, and the lowest cost of living in Spain.

Now, the local government is offering to pay online workers to live and work in the region. According to regional authorities, Extremadura is lacking in transport infrastructure compared with other parts of the country, but has fibre optic and mobile coverage above the national average, making it a perfect environment for online workers wanting to get more bang for their buck. Extremadura is tar-

geting qualified remote workers who must be able to work completely remotely and online. Those wanting to apply must commit to working and living in Extremadura for at least two years. Both residents in other regions of Spain and those from abroad are eligible providing they have all the correct documentation, foreigners included.

Full details are yet to be released, but an announcement is expected soon.

Possible Erasmus for UK students

Adam Woodward

THERE are signs that a reciprocal free movement plan might be introduced for young people between UK and EU.

Informal groundwork is being laid by EU and UK ministers for a potential reintroduction of free movement for 18 to 30 year olds for study. The hope is for an exchange of EU and UK students to begin in earnest again, including the Erasmus scheme.

The Labour Party has always stood firm on the issue of free movement negotiations in that they do not seek to push for better travel rights for UK citizens, preferring to focus more on hammering out a food safety deal and better trade links. However, sources from within go-

vernment have hinted that while they are not proposing anything, the conversation has been started by the EU.

An agreement to allow an easier exchange of students would put the UK on a similar footing as Australia and Canada, but it is said that the EU would expect ‘something in return,’ perhaps making reference to the hard-headedness of David Davis during the Brexit negotiations.

Any deal would inevitably be part of a much wider-ranging deal, something Keir Starmer will be wanting to play down in the wake of pre-election accusations from Conservatives that he would meet with Ursula von der Leyen to compromise the UK’s position on immigration.

No feasting on the beach

Hall

WORKING families li ving in Bari (Apulia) complained that the increasing number of beach clubs are driving them from the sands.

The number of these clubs, which charge beachgoers for sun loungers and beach umbrellas while providing bar and restaurant service, has grown by 50 per cent over the last 10 years or so.

An increasingly popular institution in Italy

In theory, all of Italy’s beaches are state-owned public property but in practice the beach clubs are putting them beyond the reach of those of modest means.

Summer weekends and holidays from work were traditional times not only for picnics but

full-scale meals cooked on the beach, a practice the beach clubs want to stamp out.

“It’s not nice to see these banquets on a private beach,” Erika Scarimbolo told the New York Times . The 23-year-old bar waitress at the Adria

3.0 club on San Girolamo beach added that “a little decorum” was required.

The local media routinely carry reports of skirmishes at the entrance to the beach clubs while the national daily, Il Corriere della Sera, has described the confrontations as the “Beach-Picnic Arguments rage back and forth regarding the right to bring food to the beach, which has not prevented the owners of beach clubs from imposing their own unwritten rules.

“It’s illegal what they do,” Michele Scorca declared after eating a beached-cooked meal of roast chicken and potatoes.

Prime ministers meet - Keir Starmer and Pedro Sánchez.

Working online in Extremadura.

Linda

Credit: Freepik

BEACH CLUB:

Photo credit: ilcoco.it

Margaret Thatcher portrait removed

Letara Draghia

IN a move stirring political debate, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has re moved a portrait of former Prime Mi nister Margaret Thatcher from No. 10 Downing Street. The decision, revealed by Starmer’s biographer Tom Baldwin at the Aye Write book festival in Glasgow, has sparked reac tions across the politi cal field.

The portrait, commissioned by Gordon Brown in 2009 and painted by Richard Stone, was prominently displayed in what was informally known as the ‘Thatcher Room’. Uniquely, it was the first portrait of a former prime minister specifically commissioned for No. 10, with an anonymous donor covering its £100,000 (€118,840) cost.

Starmer’s choice to take down the painting has drawn sharp criticism from Conservative members. Greg Smith, MP for Mid Buckinghamshire, labelled the act as “utter pettiness,” accusing Starmer of disrespecting historical figures.

Low salary

THE 32-year-old Hazem Ashour, originally from Egypt is a co-founder of the Swedish company Hemavi; despite being honoured by King Carl XVI Gustaf for his contributions to the tech industry, his salary was declared ‘too low’ to allow a work permit.

No.10 Downing Street.

Murdo Fraser, a former Scottish Tory leadership candidate, suggested Starmer might feel overshadowed by Thatcher’s enduring legacy.

While Starmer has previously acknowledged Thatcher’s significant influence on the UK, this decision highlights the ongoing divisiveness of her legacy in British politics. The removal of her portrait is likely to fuel further debate, reflecting the complex and enduring impact of Thatcher’s policies on the nation.

DESPITE the promise of the end of summer, Europe remains in the grip of a scorching heatwave. As September begins, a vast heat dome continues to cover much of the continent, with no immediate relief in sight. This heatwave is particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, low-income households, and outdoor workers.

Temperatures are expected to remain well above average throughout early September, especially in Central Europe, Italy, and the Balkan peninsula. The heatwave is forecast to persist for at least another week.

In 2021, Hazem Ashour was awarded ‘the Settler of the Year’ by King Carl XVI Gustaf, honouring him as one of Sweden’s finest foreign entrepreneurs. His company, Hemavi aids exchange students in finding housing in Sweden, attracting tens of thousands of users and securing more than 10 million kronor (€880,258) in investments.

Despite his achievements, the Swedish Migration Agency rejected Ashour’s work permit application.

Although Ashour’s monthly salary increased

Heatwave continues

Record-Breaking Temperatures

August 2024 was already a record-breaking month, and September has started with even more extreme temperatures. Numerous monthly records have been broken across Central Europe, with many stations recording all-time high temperatures for the month of September.

Climate Change and Rising Temperatures

to 42,000 kronor (€3,700) in December 2023, his 35,000 kronor (€4,692) salary in November of the same year, was claimed insufficient to obtain a work permit, as the Swedish Migration Agency cited the required CEO salary as 40,000 kronor (€3,542).

He responded to the Agency, arguing that he had accepted a lower salary to reinvest in his company; his appeal led

to the annulment of the initial ruling, prompting a re-examination of the case.

“I moved to Sweden almost six years ago, completed my studies, and built a company that employs people, pays taxes, and provides a service that people appreciate. Yet, in return, I’m being treated like a criminal. It just doesn’t feel right,” shared Ashour to the Press.

ter is increasingly relevant. Many people are noticing a trend of warmer summers compared to their childhoods. Climate change is said to be a significant factor contributing to these rising temperatures.

Keep Taking Precautions in Hot Weather

The question of whether summers are getting hot-

The change of month doesn’t always mean a change of temperature, and it certainly doesn’t mean letting up in taking care of yourself in the sun. As the high temperatures rage on, don’t forget the most basic self-care tips for staying safe: stay hydrated, keep applying high-SPF sun cream, and stay out of the sun during the hottest hours of the day.

Sweden’s government building.

Costa del Sol Chinese tourism

TALKS are underway in Beijing between the Junta de Andalucia and Chinese authorities who are looking to start up direct flights between China and Andalucia.

Malaga airport is under no doubt which Andalus airport is their choice and is promoting the Costa del Sol as the most attractive destination for Chinese tourists. The state-owned Air China is weighing up which airport to choose between Sevilla and Malaga. Another interesting aspect for commerce in Malaga is that with a new direct route from Beijing, the opportunity for trade in goods would also benefit the region.

One element that weighs slightly more to the Sevilla choice is that the Chinese tend to prefer more cultural holidays to sites of historical significance over beach holidays, and while both Malaga and Sevilla offer incredible historical references, Malaga’s marketing has tended to bias itself as a more sun, sea and sand style of holiday destination.

Axarquia Reservoir levels

LA VIÑUELA reservoir in Axarquia is showing signs of improvement, but the drought is far from over. As of early September, the reservoir holds 24.99 cubic hectometres of water, about 15.20 per cent of its total capacity. This is a significant improvement from last year’s 13.56 cubic hectometres, thanks to the Easter rains that boosted reserves by 11.4 cubic hectometres. Despite the ongoing drought, these levels provide a small cushion, allowing Axarquia enough water for human consumption for about 10 months, even without further rainfall.

During July and August, Axarquia consumed nearly 4.8 cubic hectometres of water from the reservoir. With the current restrictions and conservation measures in place, the region is managing its resources carefully. The Junta de Andalucia has praised the regulation of water supplies.

Across Malaga Province, La Viñuela is among the better-off reservoirs. However, with tourism driving high consumption in September, authorities are urging continued conservation efforts.

Mallorca

Millions flock to island

IN July this year the Balearic Islands were visited by 2.5 million international tourists, a number which marks a 4.3 per cent increase from that of 2023.

In a study of border tourist movements published by the Balearic Institute of Statistics (IBESTAT), Mallorca was the island which represents the increase, with a 5.03 per cent rise in visitors, whilst the other islands were subject to a reduction in tourism, with Menorca suffering a 4.25 per cent decrease and Ibiza and Formentera receiving 7.2 per cent fewer visitors then the same time last year.

According to the study, which is conducted by the National Institute of Statistics (INE), across Spain the grand majority of visitors to the country in July came from the United Kingdom, with a sensational two million British tourists choosing to holiday in Spain. This is a 2.6 per cent rise from July last year and is followed by 1.6 million French holidaymakers (a 3.4 per cent increase) and 1.2 million German visitors (6.6 per cent more than last year).

Costa Blanca South

Let’s get rocked

IF you are looking to own a unique piece of art while supporting a great cause, now’s your chance!

Garry Dutch is auctioning three stunning paintings by artist Mike, featuring rock legends Jimi Hendrix, the Rolling Stones, and Metallica’s James Hetfield.

All proceeds will benefit the Rock Against Cancer charity. Bidding is open until the end of the Rock Against Cancer concert, which takes place on September 13 and 14.

This annual music festival, held at Torrevieja’s Parque Antonio Soria, has been a major event since 2009 and has grown significantly over the years, now attracting top tribute bands from across Europe.

Additional festival highlights include charity merchandise, food trucks, and free entry for children under 12 (when accompanied by an adult).

Tickets are available at the box office or the Rock Against Cancer website, rockagainstcancer.es, for €25 per day or €40 for both days.

Almeria

Cheap city escapes

AFTER the busy and hot Spanish summer, September is the perfect time to enjoy a quieter and cheaper holiday experience, and Almeria Airport has two European capitals and a national city you can fly to for less than €100.

Within the Iberian Peninsular, in September, you can get a direct flight from the provincial capital to Bilbao for €58, departing on September 22 and returning on 29.

Bilbao is one of Spain’s most charming cities with a river running through it, surrounded by green mountains, and has easy access to both Barcelona and the capital, Madrid.

Outside of Spain, you can experience the capital of France and the host city of this year’s Olympic games, with flights from Almeria airport to Paris in September starting from only €88.

Last on this list is Belgium’s beauty, Brussels. In September, you can fly from the capital of Almeria to the capital of Belgium for less than €100, with a minimum price of €92.

Costa Calida Race for Life

GET ready to lace up those running shoes because the 19th MABS Race for Life is back, and it’s better than ever! MABS Mazarron, known for its incredible work supporting those diagnosed with cancer, and their families, is once again hosting this fantastic event. Mark your calendars for October 27 and join the fun - whether you’re walking, running, or even skipping your way around the course, everyone is welcome! Registration kicks off at 9.30am with the race starting at 10.00am. For just €10 for adults and €5 for kids under 12, you’ll get a t-shirt, a medal, and a chance to be a part of something truly special. Plus, no worries about a price hike this year - your entry fee still covers the obligatory Liability insurance. Entry forms are available at various locations, or you can easily download one from the MABS Mazarron Facebook page. Let’s come together and make a difference - see you at the start line!

Splendour suite Birthday surprise

THESE are the top five European hotel rooms if you’re looking for space and splendour.

1. The Josephina Suite at Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa, Champillon, France

In the wine-growing region, the Josephina Suite is worth €1,837 per night, consisting of a king-sized bed, a lounge area, and a six square metre terrace.

2. Sea View at Le Sirenuse, Positano, Italy

The two bedroom suite sea view is available from €800.

With three bathrooms, a double-whirlpool bathtub, and a stunning window view, the suite includes a balcony ranging up to 42 metres square.

3. Chromata Villa at Katikies Hotels, Santorini and Mykonos, Greece

Nothing short of a dream, with prices from €700, the 1,800 square-foot Chromata Villa features two king-sized beds, four bathrooms, a private pool, and a veranda.

4. Hotel Ambasador, Opatija, Croatia

Situated above a 10-kilo-

metre seaside promenade; its Garden Suite includes a double bed and a stunning terrace facing the sea. Classy yet modernised, it is timelessly chic for €410.40 per night.

5. The Imperial Suite, Le Bristol, Paris Paris’ Imperial Suite spans over 320 metres of royal charm. Alongside the bedroom, fitted for a King, the dining room features a Versailles parquet, overlooking the hotel’s vintage garden. The suite is offered for €31,500 per night.

AN Italian restaurant charged an ex tra €59 for cutting a woman’s bir thday cake, which she had bou ght at a bakery for €44.98.

The woman had been celebrating with a group of 13 friends and had bought the cake at a bakery beforehand; it turned out that cutting it was worth more.

She shared her story on Facebook, showing the bill from a small restaurant on the outskirts of Arezzo, Tuscany, with a total of €659 and an additional €59 just for cutting a birthday cake.

Before booking her evening, the woman had specified whether it would be acceptable to bring her own birthday cake and the staff assured her there would be no problems, saying nothing about an extra fee. Although she expected a small surcharge, she found that €4.50 per person was unreasonable.

Following her social media post, the restaurant faced backlash, asking the restaurant owner for an explanation.

The owner commented; “We do not charge a service charge and serve mainly dishes from our own production.

“My restaurant has to cover the costs of the waiter who serves at the table, the dishwasher and other related services.”

He added however; “I’d rather have €50 less and have people go home happy than this misunderstanding that will harm us all,” adding that he will consider adding a “new rule” of surcharging in the future.

Hotel Le Bristol, Paris.

Serving a birthday cake.

Credit: Mikhail Nilov, Pexels

Credit: Le Bristol Hotel, Facebook

PETS

UK to Spain November places available

With 25 years experience in transporting pets, from collection to delivery your pet’s comfort and safety is of paramount importance to us

Contact Jill on +44 7842 508 588 or +44 7842 508 589 or unionjackpets@aol.com for further information. Don't forget to check out our Facebook page unionjackpettransport@vippettransportation and read our reviews

Milo likes to get up close to know his cat-sitters

MILO and his brother Buddy have cat-sitters from HousesSitMatch to care for them when their owners travel away from home. Milo keeps a close eye on what is going on, but he also loves their company so it’s no chore really.

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

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

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

HouseSitMatch is Safe - All Members Are Checked

All members are checked for safety, you choose which house-sitters come to care for your pets in your absence.

Your pets stay at home - Safe and Undisturbed

All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed. Choose Housesitmatch.com for affordable travel, home and pet care and peace of mind for you and your pets.

If you’re travelling in 2024 join now and get organised:

1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com

2. Choose a Premium account (£69 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.

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

Tom C - homeowner in Mojacar

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

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Dog treat

Anna Akopyan DOLCE & GABBANA launched a new perfume for dogs for €99, titled Fefe; it is inspired by Domenico Dolce’s ‘unconditional love’ for his ‘loyal dog Fefe’, revealed D&G’s website.

“I am delicate, charismatic, authentic, sensitive, enigmatic, rebel, fresh, irresistible, clean. Cause I’m not just a dog. I’m Fefe,” said the narrator in the perfume advert to the image of perfectly groomed pups. Fefe comes in a sleek green lacquered glass bottle, adorned with a vibrant red metal cap

and a precious 24-carat gold-plated paw,” for the pets of the most high-maintenance owners. The bottle is priced at €99 in 100ml and is complemented by a Dolce & Gabbana dog collar with a tag and optional engravings. Although this isn’t the first perfume for dogs, it is a pioneer in the high fashion industry and has provoked mixed reactions.

PETA founder Ingrid Newkirk was also unimpressed by Fefe; “Dogs (...) can smell 10,000 to 100,000 times better than humans, so squirting them with a fragrance designed to please humans can upset them greatly.”

She advised against the perfume; “our dogs love us just as we are - and we should extend the same courtesy to them.”

According to D&G, however, the market “reacted well” to Fefe. “Everyone went crazy at the announcement.” D&G also clarified the perfume is ‘vet approved’ and certified by Safe Pet Cosmetics.

Milo loves his cat-sitters and keeps a close eye on them.

POOL

Simple driving rules

DRIVING in Spain is generally an easygoing experience with comparatively few traffic problems. It is easy to forget, though, that there are some rules of the road that may be different here compared to in other countries.

Nonetheless, it is essential all drivers are aware of rules that may lead to fines, and especially those here driving on licences from their own countries, or those who have been fortunate enough to have exchanged their licence for a Spanish one without having to take a test.

For example, driving with your elbow resting out of the window. Spanish road law requires all occupants of a vehicle maintain a sensible position

‘within’ the vehicle. Failure to comply could earn a €100 fine.

Driving barefoot, in flip-flops, in just a bikini or without a shirt is also a big nono, and comes with a €200 fine.

Retouching make-up in the mirror at traffic lights, or eating while driving fetches a whopping €200 fine and two points off the licence.

Car horns are for emergencies only, and not for you to vent your anger.

While driving in the middle or left hand lane without overtaking anyone, according to Articles 28 and 31 of the driving code, might result in a €200 bill.

While filling up at the petrol station with the radio on comes with a €90 fine.

Falling short

UK roads fall short when compared to those in Europe, according to drivers. New research from RAC Europe reveals that most drivers who have travelled abroad believe European roads are in far better condition than those in the UK, which are plagued by potholes.

A significant 62 per cent of motorists feel that local roads across Europe are better maintained and have fewer potholes than those in the UK, while only 17 per cent believe that UK roads are superior to their continental counterparts.

The concerns extend to motorways as well, with over half (57 per cent) of drivers stating that Europe’s high-speed roads have fewer and less severe potholes compared to those in the UK.

In contrast, only 19 per cent of drivers think that

UK motorways are in better condition, while 14 per cent see little or no difference between the two.

When comparing various aspects of driving between the UK and Europe, the UK came out on top in just one area: the ease of understanding road signs.

A third (30 per cent) of drivers found UK signage more straightforward,

Alcohol tech immobilises cars

MALAGA-born tech that doesn’t allow you to start your car if your breath smells of booze. Malaga Province has already had nine more deaths this year due to traffic accidents than in the same period last year. The DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) says that almost half of traffic accidents in Spain have alcohol consumption as a contributing factor. New technology invented in Malaga is being showcased that will block the starter motor on a vehicle if the driver tests positive for alcohol.

The machine, connects to the car via Bluetooth, works just like a regular breathalyser, but will paralyse the motor whenever alcohol is detected. The Malaga company pionee-

ring this tech, Drivelock, has added a facial recognition camera feature that checks the driver’s identity while blowing into a tube.

EU regulations already require an older version of this technology to be used

in new heavy vehicles such as buses, HGVs and vehicles for transporting dangerous goods, from July this year, but with Drivelock’s new wireless device, it is hoped that a lower cost version can be

though a larger proportion (55 per cent) felt there was little difference, and 10 per cent said they found European road signs easier to interpret. In contrast, 37 per cent of drivers believe that painted road markings, such as those at junctions and give way lines, are easier to see on European roads, while 32 per cent saw no difference.

easily adapted for passenger cars.

The hope is the new devices will be available to buy in shops at a relatively low cost. Engineers in Madrid are already working on the first items which they hope will be on sale to the public by the end of 2024.

Image: Patrick Shutterstock / Shutterstock.com.

Guardia Civil spot check.

Converting a Van into a Campervan

CONVERTING a van into a campervan has become an increasingly popular way to embrace the freedom of the open road while enjoying the comforts of home. This DIY project allows you to create a personalised, mobile living space that’s perfect for exploring the country.

The first step is planning. Consider your needs and budget - will you require a full kitchen setup, a bathroom, or simply a cosy sleeping area? Sketch out a layout that maximises space and functionality. Es-

sential features often include a bed, storage, a small kitchenette, and possibly a seating area that doubles as a workspace.

Insulating your van is crucial for comfort, keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Install proper insulation materials in the walls, ceiling, and floor. Next, consider installing a power system with solar panels or a secondary battery to power lights, appliances, and gadgets. Water storage and a small sink can make your travels more convenient.

When it comes to furnishing, opt for lightweight, multi-functional furniture that saves space. For example, a foldable bed can transform into a seating area during the day. Personalise the interior with decor that reflects your style, making it a true home on wheels.

Credit: Brian Sneddon

The hunt is on! - Aston Martin searching for 1st car from 1914

By Mark Slack ROAD

TEST

THE search is on for a priceless piece of British luxury car brand Aston Martin’s earliest history. A1 was the very first car to be built by Bamford & Martin Ltd, the company that quickly became Aston Martin.

Nicknamed ‘Coal Scuttle’ because of its simple styling that was, to many, redolent of the ubiquitous fuel container that almost every home in the nation would have possessed.

However, Aston Martin sold its earliest model for the princely sum of £50 in 1924 and, not long after that, the car disappeared.

Now, 110 years after its manufacture and 100 years after its sale, the Aston Martin Heritage Trust (AMHT) is launching a global hunt for this priceless missing piece of the brand’s history.

The AMHT is asking car enthusiasts around the

world to check their garages, outhouses, barns and stores for any potential traces of the missing car. Trust Treasurer, Garry Taylor, said: “We are very fortunate here at the AMHT to have the oldest known Aston Martin in existence, now known as A3, but, to date, ‘Coal Scuttle’ has eluded us.”

Built in 1914, by a small team of engineers led by marque founders Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, this first car was aspiring to be a high-quality sporting car rivalling the likes of Bugatti.

The First World War interrupted its development, although Lionel Martin was still able to formally register the car as an ‘Aston-Martin’ on March 16, 1915.

Bamford had fought in France during the war and, having survived the conflict and the Spanish Flu pandemic, he opted to leave the business to concentrate on a quieter life, passing

on his shareholding to Kate Martin, wife of his former business partner Lionel.

As Bamford & Martin Ltd regrouped in 1919 it entered its lone car, ‘Coal Scuttle’, in the first available UK sporting event, the London to Edinburgh Trial.

This was a true test of machinery, driving all the way on rough roads and tracks with all manner of pitfalls possible. Thankfully the car completed the event in good time, earning a Gold Medal in the process.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact: https:// amht.org.uk/contact/