Costa Blanca North 12 – 18 September 2024 Issue 2045

Walking Proud

THE vibrant and energetic Benidorm Pride parade brought together thousands of individuals from diverse backgrounds to celebrate and show support for the LGBTQIA+ community. The parade featured a spectacular display of colours, with not only rainbow ags but also an array of dazzling costumes and spirited dancers, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere that took over the streets of Benidorm.

Drawing an estimated crowd of 20,000 visitors from various parts of Europe and the UK, the town became a bustling centre of celebration and advocacy. The dynamic parade, proudly led by Mayor Toni Perez and Minister of Tourism Nuria Montes, traversed through the city’s streets, culminating in a joyous gathering at the Julio Iglesias outdoor auditorium. The vibrant event

mination of a ve-day extravaganza featuring lively celebrations and activities, including a vibrant pool party and the renowned ‘White Party’.

The o cial Closing Party, a climactic and unforgettable conclusion to Benidorm Pride, took place at the Amphitheatre. The jubilant crowds were treated to sensational performances by various artists.

showcased the city’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity and left a lasting impression of unity and pride, demonstrating the city’s unwavering support.

The parade was the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the nal European Pride of the summer and was the cul-

The evening’s most poignant and heartfelt moment arose when Miss James McDonald delivered a stirring rendition of ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ in a beautiful tribute to the late Stevie Spit.

Costa Blanca North • Issue No. 2045 • 12 - 18 Sept 2024 FREE FREE FREI GRATIS

GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS

GRATUITO VRIJ

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Pride Parade 2024.

Afternoon tea

Dark clouds didn’t spoil the afternoon tea.

DESPITE the menacing threat of rain as the dark storm clouds closed in and the thunder ominously clapped in the distance, the members of the Alfas Anglicans were undeterred in their determination to savour a charming afternoon tea. The delightful event was organised as a fundraising initiative and took place at the gracious home of one of their esteemed members.

Despite the uncertain weather, around 25 individuals graced the occasion with their presence, including several esteemed members of the U3A organisation.

After putting in a huge amount of effort to plan and execute this fundraiser, the Committee and helpers were delighted with its overwhelming success. The fundraiser rai-

sed €411 for the Chaplaincy, and this generous support was incredibly appreciated. They have a couple more events planned for next month, namely a quiz afternoon on October 1 in Altea, and an End of Church Year Grand Chaplaincy Wide Buffet on October 29 in Alfas del Pi. In addition, if you would like to join their service, they hold Holy Communion in Alfas del Pi every Sunday from 9.30am and every Thursday at 11.00am, with a healing service every second Thursday of the month. Their meeting place is downstairs next to the library in The Comm (formerly the Forum Mare Notrum). If you would like further information on the upcoming events or the Alfas Anglicans, contact secretary Elaine on 636 164 467.

Credit: Alfas Anglicans

Generation Alpha

THE term ‘Generation Alpha’ has been coined to refer to those individuals born between 2010 and 2024, marking them as the newest generation. This label aims to capture the unique characteristics and experiences of this group, which is growing up in a rapidly evolving technological and societal landscape.

Of course, this also includes the group that was either born or very young during the Covid-19 pande-

mic, and we are now beginning to see the impact that experiencing lockdowns and restrictions has had on their development. As these children enter school, educators are encountering a range of issues, including delayed speech and language development, social and emotional di culties, and behavioural problems.

Experts have suggested that decreased social interactions, missed developmental check-ups, and

disrupted routines are all contributing factors. One headteacher in the UK has described how he has seen an increase in reception children biting one another, throwing things, running o , and spitting. He also added they often felt frustration, struggled with taking turns and sharing, and found it challenging to pick up skills like following routines and listening in class.

“They don’t have the vo-

Baby Boomers (1946–1964)

cabulary to express their feelings,” he said. “They’re about two years behind when they arrive.”

Experts have emphasised that educators and speech and language therapists are not just important but crucial in addressing these developmental issues.

Their e orts will be instrumental in helping Generation Alpha catch up, and they will be the key players in shaping their future.

A Digitised World

GENERATION ALPHA children are growing up in an era where they are even more immersed in technology than the generations before them. As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, many of them had to adapt to home-schooling methods. During this period, the usual discipline around screen time and mobile phone usage took a backseat, as mobile devices became a vital means of maintaining social connections, albeit in a virtual space.

Now, it seems that many European countries are attempting to break that habit by enforcing rules around phone use during school. Spain, Denmark, Greece, and the Netherlands have all gone down this route, and France has joined them more recently. They argue that a phone prohibition will improve student relations and mental health.

However, others consider mobile phones to be indispensable tools for Generation Alpha and should be embraced as such. They believe that allowing students to use phones in schools has more advantages than disadvantages, particularly in permitting them to build on their digital literacy, an essential skill for future employability.

In the rapidly digitised world that Generation Alpha will be exposed to, perhaps teachers and parents should consider the quote by the 20th-century education reformer John Dewey, who said, “If we teach today as we taught yesterday, we rob our children of tomorrow.”

Following the Second World War, the Baby Boomers experienced a population boom and were at the forefront of cultural shifts, such as protesting the Vietnam War.

Generation X (1965–1980)

Generation X has witnessed signi cant cultural and social changes, such as the AIDS epidemic and the rise of LGBTQ+ rights.

Millennials (1981–1996)

Millennials have lived through transformative events like 9/11 and the rise of the internet.

Generation Z (1997–2010)

Generation Z is the rst generation to grow up in a world of constant digital connectivity.

Generation Alpha (2010–2024)

While it’s too early to de ne Generation Alpha fully, the impact of events like Covid-19 will undoubtedly shape their worldview and values.

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School kids are finding it hard to kick the ‘phone’ habit.

Generation Alpha includes the young during Covid-19.

Turtles released

LAST August, seven loggerhead sea turtles hatched from one of the nests on the beach of Albaranes in Denia. On September 6, these seven young turtles, out of the 62 that survived, were joyfully returned to the sea. At birth, they were relocated to the Oceanogra c of Valencia as part of a programme aimed at increasing their chances of survival. This ‘head-starting’ programme involves releasing the turtles when they reach one year of age.

Due to their small size, newborn sea turtles face numerous threats, including predators like crabs, birds, and sh. The rst few days are especially critical, with mortality rates reaching 90 per cent and only one in 1,000 turtles expected to reach adulthood. Through head-starting programmes, capti-

ve-bred turtles have a better chance of survival as they are released at a size that reduces their chances of being attacked.

To monitor the survival and adaptation of the released turtles, the Polytechnic University of Valencia has equipped them with satellite transmitters carefully attached to their shells. These transmitters will provide crucial data on the turtles’ movements and behaviours, o ering insight into this little-known phase of their life in the open sea. Each turtle was named before release to facilitate tracking, with the mayor personally naming one of them ‘Llum’, after a volunteer who cared for the nest last summer. This heartwarming event marks a signicant step in the conservation of these magni cent creatures.

New Nursery School

THE construction of the new PONOIG Nursery School in Polop, financed entirely by the Alicante Provincial Council, is in its final phase and is expected to be completed in the coming weeks. The school, which has been eagerly anticipated by the town’s residents, will be a significant addition to the municipality’s educational infrastructure. It will offer 26 places for children from 0 to two years old, providing a valuable early education option for families in the area.

Sergio Pastor, the councillor with responsibility for the works has expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the construction, stating, “We are very excited to see this long-awaited project nearing completion. The PONOIG Nursery School will not only enhance the educational offerings in our municipality, but will also provide a safe and

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welcoming environment for our youngest children.”

The mayor of Polop, Jose Luis Susmozas, has also expressed his enthusiasm, noting that the nursery school represents a significant investment in the town’s future. Thanks to the support of the Alicante Provincial Council and the Ministry of Education of the Generalitat Valenciana, the

school will be completely free for all Polop families, ensuring that early education is accessible to all.

Once completed, the Ministry of Education of the Generalitat Valenciana will manage and finance the furniture, interior fittings, and teaching staff, ensuring that the facilities are fully equipped to offer a high-quality early education service.

Loggerhead turtle being released into the sea.

The Nursery School is nearing completion.

LOCALLY born artist Tachi Lloret’s latest exhibition, ‘Delirios de una verdad’ (Vital Delusions) made a profound impact on everyone present at the grand inauguration held at Palau Altea on September 5. The renowned painter, who hadn’t showcased his work in his hometown for two decades, was visibly elated as he unveiled his latest collection, teeming with vibrant colours, subtle nuances, and profound reflections on life.

Tachi shared, “I’ve always been intrigued by the fundamental questions of life such as happiness, death, sex, truth, and lies. These ideas have been brewing in my mind for

years, evident in the sketches I’ve held onto.”

‘Delirios de una verdad’ will travel beyond Spain, embarking on a journey to China, Japan, and Hong Kong starting December 5. Once the exhibition

Red Hats visit Vital delusions

ON September 4, a group of 15 Dutch women from the Red Hats Association enjoyed a complimentary guided tour of the charming streets of La Nucia.

Their excursion began at the Tourist Office, where they were warmly welcomed by Maria Jesus Jumilla, the councillor for Tourism. Ms Jumilla engaged in conversation with the group, as many of them are residents of La Nucia and the Marina Baixa region.

Led by volunteer guide Yvonne in Dutch, the tour, organised by the Department of Tourism, lasted for two delightful hours. During

commences in these Asian destinations, it is unlikely to return to Altea. This presents a unique opportunity for art and painting aficionados to witness and appreciate this remarkable creation in person, with

this time, the group explored the Old Town of La Nucia, visiting its most iconic landmarks such as Fon de la Favara, the Church, and the Llavador.

The guide entertained the women with fascinating insights into the history of the town, unveiling lesser-known aspects of its past, some of which were even unfamiliar to local residents and tourists. The topics covered included the niches of saints in different houses, the historical significance of the Llavador, the town’s origins, the stonecutters’ trade, and the growth of La Nucia.

the exhibition running until September 30.

Moreover, Tachi Lloret, the artist, has announced that he will conduct two insightful sessions for the public eager to delve deeper into his art. These one-hour sessions will take place on Thursday, September 19 and 26, commencing at 7.00pm.

During the exhibition’s inauguration, Lloret expressed gratitude to those in attendance and extended his thanks to the town council for their unwavering support.

Tachi Lloret with one of his paintings.

School calendar

IN the Valencian Community, the school year for students in infant, primary, secondary, and baccalaureate education, as well as vocational training, basic, intermediate, and higher grade, commenced on September 9 and will conclude on June 18, 2025.

The regional government, also known as the ‘Generalitat’, recently released the academic calendar to the public. This calendar provides specific information about the commencement of classes and the schedule for holiday periods. It’s also worth noting that each educational institution has been granted four holidays spread

throughout the academic year.

Detailed below are the holidays that will take place in the Valencian Community during the academic year 2024/25:

October 9, 2024: Day of the Valencian Community

November 1, 2024: All Saints’ Day

December 6, 2024: Constitution Day

December 23, 2024 to January 6, 2025:

Christmas holidays

March 19, 2025: St Joseph’s Day

April 11 to 21, 2025: Easter holidays

1 May, 2025: International Workers’ Day

June 18, 2025: Summer Holiday

Cave rescue

TWO young people, aged 18 and 16, were successfully rescued on September 6, after being trapped in a sea cave in l’Alfas del Pi while practising paddle surfing along the Marina Baixa’s coast.

The pair were caught off guard by a strong swell, forcing them to seek shelter in the cave located in Cala de la Mina.

Despite their initial attempts to leave the cave, the rough sea conditions made it impossible for them to do so. Thankfully, the young surfers were able to alert authorities about their situation.

A rescue team, along with additional Red Cross personnel, swiftly responded to their distress call to assist them. After a challenging operation, the rescue was accomplished without any indications either teenager had come to any harm.

JAVEA was buzzing with excitement as the community came together to celebrate the annual parade of floats in honour of the Mare de Deu de Loreto. The colourful procession brought together locals and visitors alike to enjoy a lively display of tradition and humour.

The parade kicked off with larger-than-life dolls representing popular cartoon characters, bringing joy to onlookers, especially the younger ones, who couldn’t help but

Parade fun

smile and applaud.

No topic was off-limits as the parade incorporated biting satire into its floats and costumes. From the soaring rents making housing and beach access a challenge, to the controversy surrounding the municipal swimming pool, to the struggles faced by fi-

Healthy Day

ON September 7, the charming town of Alfas del Pi came alive with the inaugural Healthy Day, a collaborative effort between the Alicante Association for the Fight Against Cancer (AACC) and the local town council.

This event aimed to promote healthy habits among people of all ages and featured a diverse range of engaging activities. Both the morning session, which took place between 9.30am to 1.30pm at the Municipal Sports Centre, and the afternoon session, between 7.30pm and 8.45pm at the Casa de Cultura, were packed with informative and entertaining experiences.

Several interesting workshops covering relaxation, healthy breakfast choices, and Krav Maga (an Israeli self-defence system) took place throughout the morning. The afternoon session started

with a tribute to the AACC and was followed by HipHop, which was hosted by the Variance Dance Studio. The latter part of the afternoon was dedicated to further workshops, including Lymphedema, Nutrition, Psychological Support, Podiatry, and Research.

The Casa de Cultura hosted the evening sessions which featured per-

formances from students of the Hatzel Hills Dance School and Flamenco Dance with España Brava. Entertaining activities for the children and a Tai Chi Exhibition by Wang Zheng completed the programme.

Access to all activities was free, reflecting the organisers’ dedication to making healthy living available to all.

shermen due to overcrowding in the waters, all were cleverly and humorously addressed.

On the flip side, the children’s enthusiasm reached new heights as sweets rained down from costumed participants, bringing joy to all. Representatives from other Javea festivi-

ties added to the vibrant array of costumes and colours, adding even more diversity to the procession.

The grand finale was nothing short of spectacular, as the 2024 mayoralesas made a majestic appearance on a splendid float borrowed, as per tradition, from the Denia festivities. Confetti filled the air, music filled the streets, and the entire community was bathed in the unadulterated joy of the occasion.

Healthy Day was a collaborative effort.

Credit: lalfas.es

ON the weekend of September 7, local para-equestrian dressage rider Anneke de Vree participated in the ‘Working Equitation’ competition, where she represented Spain. The competition, which took place in France, is relatively new. Its origins are the traditional practices of working horses with cattle that occurred in Italy, Spain, the south of France, and Portugal. It involves four distinct elements: the classic dressage test, a trail test featuring obstacles like

gates, slaloms, bridges, barrels, garrochas, and bell ringing, a speed test where obstacles are navigated in a specific order against the clock, and finally, the inclusion of cows, although the presence of actual live cows is not always feasible.

Credit: Maude Dierman

used for guiding cattle. Even so, she put in a strong performance in both the dressage and trail tests and advanced to the final test, the speed test. However, despite her horse’s fantastic performance, the partnership did not deliver the result she was hoping for, owing to a fatal error on her part.

Working Equitation 30th Anniversary

Anneke, who resides in Altea, faced an exceptional challenge in this competition because her left hand is 50 per cent paralysed. This proved to be particularly difficult during the ‘ease of handling’ section, where she

had to ride with one hand while using the other hand to manage tasks

THE Local Police of Finestrat marked its 30th anniversary with a celebratory event held on the morning of September 7 at the Placa de la Unio Europea. The occasion commenced with a comprehensive review of the current staff’s training, highlighting the evolution and accomplishments of the Local Police Corps of Finestrat. Mayor Juanfran Perez Llorca, accompanied by the councillor for Security, Beatiz Quintillan, and the Chief of the Local Police, Agustín Rubio, presided over the event.

Distinguished guests, including the Regional Secretary of Security and Emergency, Emilio Argueso, and the general direc -

such as opening and closing gates and handling a garrocha, a long pole

tor of the Valencian Institute of Social Services, Mª Jose Rico, graced the institutional gathering. Addressing the audience, Mayor Beatriz Quintillan expressed her gratitude and congratulations to all the members of the Local Police as they celebrated three decades of dedicated service to the community. She emphasised the significant growth of the police force, which now comprises 30 members, reflecting the town’s expanding needs.

She also highlighted the establishment of new units such as the Proximity Police, Support for Families, and Against Gender-based Violence, demons -

This had a detrimental effect on her final score and resulted in Anneke finishing seventh overall. Despite this setback, Anneke remained pragmatic, seeing it as a valuable learning experience from which she will surely bounce back.

trating the force’s adaptability and responsiveness to societal demands.

Furthermore, Mayor Quintillan underscored the enhancements in the workforce and vehicle fleet, as well as the integration of new technologies to optimise service delivery. The Local Police’s commitment to providing an efficient and dedicated service to the community was evident through the continuous efforts and dedication of its members.

During the event, several officers were presented with Medals of Professional Merit in recognition of more than 25 years of service.

Anneke de Vree completing gate obstacle.

Investment decision paralysis - how to overcome an overload of choices

In 2002, there were around 30,000 managed investment products to choose from. Over the next two decades, however, the number of choices has grown exponentially to more than 742,000 products recorded last year.

The increase ranges from open-ended mutual funds to exchange-traded funds (ETFs), but how can you navigate such a saturated market with a selection that will only continue to expand?

The road to a million choices

It has been projected that there could be a million managed investment products to choose from by 2031, and this abundance of choice can make it very difficult to commit to a particular course of action for your investments.

Today, investors are exposed to more information than any previous generation. Data and research that has only been available to financial professionals is now freely accessible, and this inevita-

By Brett Hanson, Senior Partner, Blevins Franks

bly brings advice and news from sources that might not be qualified to serve the interests of your finances.

This deluge of information, while offering greater transparency, does not necessarily provide greater knowledge and understanding. More likely, it gives us a sense of uncertainty about what information can be trusted and relied upon.

Studies show that the growing access to technology only increases the need for assessment by a

specialist who can see through the noise and direct your funds successfully towards achieving your objectives.

What is decision paralysis for investments?

Our ability to choose is the bedrock of our autonomy and freedom. However, we tend to become overwhelmed by too many options.

‘The Paradox of Choice’ as described by author Barry Schwartz, most often reveals that having too many selections to choose from actually limits our freedom to do so.

When it comes to investing, having too much choice will most likely hurt you rather than help you if you don’t have the proper expert guidance.

Overcoming decision paralysis

Many people feel uncomfortable making investment decisions due

to a general lack of knowledge.

However, statistics show that investors who rely on alternative sources don’t understand the value of financial specialist advice until they experience it.

A financial adviser will help you combat decision paralysis by providing actionable insights and options based on your unique circumstances and objectives. Your adviser will be able to provide you with clear pros and cons of each option and help you to navigate the increasingly complex marketplace.

Make informed decisions with the right advice

You have worked hard for your money, and having some set aside to invest, you don’t want to be faced with a vast amount of investment options, where the research only seems to lead you further down the rabbit hole. This can be described as analysis paralysis, ultimately leading to decision

paralysis. A situation where the sheer volume of options available prevents us from being able to make an informed decision in fear of choosing the wrong path.

We live in a world where social media has given both good and bad actors a platform, and the number of investment choices continues to rise exponentially. The need for specialist financial advice is more important than ever.

These views are put forward for consideration purposes only as the suitability of any investment is dependent on the investment objectives, time horizon and attitude to risk of the investor. The value of investments can fall as well as rise, as can the income arising from them. Past performance should not be seen as an indication of future performance.

Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at www. blevinsfranks.com.

Tony Cabban, Chair, The Arts Society Marina Alta

Donna Williams

MEET Tony, an adventurer with a love of the arts and all things ‘Spain’ who has called Javea home for the last 30 years.

When asked how he first came to Spain, Tony had quite the story to tell. He described a hitchhiking adventure that took place back in 1960. He hitched all the way from Tonbridge, Kent, in the UK, to Bilbao. As if that

wasn’t adventure enough, he then went on to buy a 3,000 km train ticket to travel all over Spain.

Tony has led a fascinating life involving trips to rigs while working for Philips Petroleum as the accountant for North Sea exploration. He shared, “To go to work, I had to be swung up on the end of a crane. Later, helicopters were used, which was much more com-

fortable” - and I thought that my daily commute to London was bad!

A keen traveller, Tony, his wife Cherry, and their two girls spent two and a half years in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo). An assignment followed this in Madrid while Franco was still in power, then Barcelona and finally 10 years in Brussels.

In 1976, on friends’ recommendations, Tony decided to buy a holiday home in Javea. This then became their permanent residence when he retired in 1994. Tony said with a smile, “That was one of the best decisions we have ever made; we love everything about this country.”

Having made Javea his home and considering

himself too young to retire completely, Tony embarked on a new career in local politics as a councillor. He said, “I am most proud of having been instrumental in reorganising the rubbish collection system by grouping bins at Green Points.”

He and Cherry also became deeply involved in the Javea Players, with him as Chairman and Cherry as director and also acting in plays. His other passion is The Arts Society Marina Alta (TASMA), which he formed with a group of like-minded people back in 2017. He explained, “I was inspired to set up the committee after hearing an enormously inspiring taster lecture from the Arts Society, UK.” Within a couple of years, they

had grown to a membership of 200, with 45 on the waiting list.

However, it hasn’t always been plain sailing, and the Society suffered due to the combined effects of Brexit, Covid and the economic downturn. As a result, Tony had to take drastic action, which included a cost-cutting exercise, membership recruitment, and reinstatement of cultural trips.

His strategy not only

led to the revival of the Society but also earned him a well-deserved Marsh Charitable Trust International Award. Thanks to his efforts and those of the new committee members who joined him, the Society became the hugely pleasurable organisation it is today.

If you are interested in learning more about The Arts Society Marina Alta, visit www.artssocma.org, or email: marinaalta@ theartssociety.org.

Tony Cabban winning Marsh Charitable Trust International Award.

THE Spanish Sea Kayak Championship held in Villajoyosa was an exciting event, showcasing some phenomenal talent. Walter Bouzan Sanchez and Chloe Bunnett emerged as the champions in the downwind category, demonstrating their exceptional skills on the water.

Sara Mengual claimed the title of the champion of Spain in the SS1 under 23 category. This victory has earned her the opportunity to compete in the upcoming World Cham-

Sea Kayak Championship

pionship in Madeira this October, where she will face off against Bouzan and Bunnett.

The championship attracted more than 700 athletes from across Spain, making it a truly vibrant and diverse event. Despite the fierce competition, the local athletes shone, securing impressive victories. Andrea Jimenez, Mireia Perez, and Angela

Chocolate factory fire

A FIRE broke out at the Valor chocolate factory in Villajoyosa on September 6, prompting the evacuation of approximately 200 workers and museum visitors. The incident originated when the compressors supplying the cooling area caught fire, releasing thick smoke.

Benidorm firefighters promptly moved to extinguish the fire and prevent its spread to other areas. They mobilised a command unit, a heavy urban pump with four firefighters and a corporal, and a heavy nurse pump with two firefighters. Additionally, an itinerant checkpoint vehicle from the Central Park of San Vicente with one corporal and three firefighters provided support. The fire was brought under control at 6.35pm, just over an hour after it was declared, and it was completely extinguished at 8.36 pm.

In a company statement, a representative from the chocolate factory confirmed that all individuals present at the factory at the time of the fire were safely evacuated, thanks to the implementation of the factory’s emergency plan. It further reassured that, fortunately, nobody had been hurt.

The company also expressed its gratitude to the firefighting teams, Local Police, and the Guardia Civil for their swift response and concerted efforts in controlling the fire.

Decongesting traffic

WORKS started in May 2024 to ease congestion in the urban area of Calpe are progressing to schedule, and the project is expected to be completed in May 2025.

The ongoing construction on the final section of road J is a significant step forward. Once completed, traffic will be rerouted from the beach area to the national road, without the need to use Avenida Ejercitos Españoles and the Provincial Council. As part of the plenary agreement, this road is set to be renamed Avenida Felipe VI and is expected to significantly mitigate traffic congestion in the urban area.

The construction effort encompasses a 500-metre stretch with a continuous width of 20 metres and incorporates all necessary infrastructure such as sanitation networks, drinking water supply, public lighting, communications systems, and sustainable urban drainage. Furthermore, the road development includes spacious pavements and dedicated traffic lanes for each direction.

The mayor, Ana Sala, has reaffirmed her commitment to improving the municipality’s road infrastructure. Her dedication to facilitating access to housing estates, decongesting traffic, and improving the educational situation is a testament to the town’s growth and the need to adapt its infrastructure to meet the needs of residents.

Sanchez were among the hometown heroes who proudly clinched the title of Spain’s champion in their respective categories. Their outstanding performances added to the overall excitement of the event.

The awards ceremony was a grand affair, graced by prominent figures such as Mayor Marcos Zaragoza, Jose Antonio Chapa, Jose Miguel Sanchez, Peyo Lloret, Paloma Cinto, Alejandro Aguera, and Maria Angeles Ripoll. The presentation of the identi-

fying logo for the Sea Kayak World Championship, which Villajoyosa will host in 2026, added to the anticipation and excitement surrounding the future of sea sports in the town. The festivities didn’t end there, as Sunday brought forth more thrilling competitions. The SS1 and SS2 modalities of three and eight kilometres, including mixed doubles, took place, attracting eager participants from the Valencian Community, the Canary Islands, and the Balearic Islands.

The championship attracted more than 700 athletes.

Contract termination for construction project. Problems with a Constructor. Contractual breach. Expert Legal Advice.

CONTRACTS for construction work, where a construction or renovation project is agreed upon for a price, can be highly delicate. Disputes, conflicts and problems with a constructor and the client can arise easily. Common issues include project delays, non-compliance with agreed specifications, discrepancies in material quality, excessive charges for extras, and, in more extreme cases, abandonment of the project by the constructor. This abandonment exacerbates the conflict even further.

Delays in Project Completion.

One of the most frequent issues in construction contracts is delays in project completion. Delays can occur due to various factors, such as the constructor’s lack of planning,

Carlos Baos (Lawyer) White & Baos. Tel: +34 966 426 185 - info@white-baos.com - White & Baos - All Rights Reserved. ADVERTISING FEATURE

problems in the supply chain and with material suppliers, disputes over contract interpretation that can halt work, delays in obtaining licences or permits, and weather conditions. A well-structured contract from the start, with defined penalties, is crucial to minimise risk and avoid delays. In case of non-compliance, you could claim against the constructor.

Non-Compliance with Specifications and Disagreements Over Material Quality.

Another unfortunate situation that often occurs is non-compliance with specifications. This means the work done by the constructor does not meet the technical design requirements or functionalities established in the contract and its appendices. Material quality can also be problema -

tic, especially when supplied materials do not meet agreed standards or when there are differences in interpretation regarding the agreed specifications.

Excessive Charges for Extras.

Extras or modifications not included in the project can also lead to conflicts between the client and the constructor. Therefore, it is essential for the contract to clearly detail the procedure for approving these extras and the payment terms. A contract drafted by a construction law expert not only prevents these issues but also provides a solid foundation for resolving any conflicts that may arise.

Abandonment of the Project.

Abandonment occurs when the constructor leaves the project incomplete and cea -

ses all activities, effectively withdrawing from the site. This can leave you with an incomplete property, lacking safety barriers, and with no security or workers on site. In such cases, it is necessary to act quickly and contact a lawyer specialising in real estate claims. You will need to request a notary to carry out a Presence Act to document the degree of abandonment, formally request the constructor in writing, and inform the relevant administrative authorities. Acting promptly is essential to claim contract enforcement or compensation for damages caused. Additionally, in claims related to this type of contract, it is legally crucial not only how the contract is drafted but also whether the client qualifies as a consumer. If so, the especially protective regula -

tions for consumers and users would apply.

Regarding the drafting of this contract, the client must be sufficiently protected to terminate the contract without the constructor being able to prevent it or halt the work for an excessive period until the resolution of the dispute.

At White-Baos Lawyers, we have extensive experience in resolving conflicts related to construction contracts. If you are facing disputes, conflicts or problems with a constructor, or if you need to terminate a contract, do not hesitate to contact us for the necessary legal support and to protect your interests.

ABOGADOS / SOLICITORS

ON Wednesday, September 4, Benidorm experienced heavy rainfall, with up to 25 litres per square meter in just 30 minutes in areas like La Cala. However, despite the intense storm, no signi cant da-

Kayak rescue

mage was reported. According to Jesus Carrobles and Jose Ramon Gonzalez de Zarate, the councillors for Citizen Security and

Water Cycle, the town’s hydraulic infrastructure e ectively managed the rainfall, and the local police and municipality promptly addressed any speci c incidents.

U3A MARINA BAIXA

AFTER a break in their activities during August members can now look forward to a busy autumn and winter season. The Watercolour group met on Monday September 2 and the Picnic Group enjoyed an afternoon in La Nucía. The Strollers announced their programme and details are given below.

October Sunday 6, afternoon stroll at El Captivador.

November Sunday 3, afternoon stroll ‘La Nucia cultural strollie’.

And, nally December Sunday 8 morning stroll up to the Lighthouse in Albir where the information centre is open in the morning.

The next General Meeting of U3A Marina Baixa will be held at the Casa de Cultura, Alfaz del Pi on Monday September 23 at 11.00 am.

One such incident involved two individuals who were caught o guard by the storm while kayaking and had to be rescued by the Benidorm Local Police. The Local Police were quick to respond to the incident, ensuring the safety of the kayakers.

According to the councillors, the refurbishment of hydraulic infrastructures has yielded a positive outcome. In fact, as a direct result of this investment, the town showed remarkable progress in dealing with the heavy rainfall compared to that of previous years. Only this one incident was recorded, which is a clear demonstration of just how much of an improvement there has been.

Furthermore, the town council remains committed to addressing any outstanding issues and has already greenlit a project aimed at improving the wastewater network of the Wastewater Farm in Elche.

ROME o cials are considering imposing a limit on the access to the Trevi fountain, in the face of burdening over tourism.

“Personally, I would be in favour of looking at a new form of access, limited and timed, to the Trevi fountain,” said the city councillor responsible for Tourism, Alessandro Onorato to the Italian Press.

He indicated that access to the fountain could become free for residents and cost a “symbolic” charge of €1 or €2 for visitors; not to make money but to show “respect” to the monument, which many tourists disregard by littering and using as a lunch spot. Rome’s mayor Roberto Gual-

Throw a coin

tieri also stated that applying new measures is “a very concrete possibility.”

“We’ve decided to study and investigate this because the situation is becoming technically di cult to manage,” said Gualtieri, adding that, “local police

o cers tell us this all the time: there is a concentration of people that makes adequate protection of the monument di cult and is also often a source of degradation.”

This is not the rst time the local o cials have been considering stricter regulations for the Trevi fountain; since 2017, nes can be imposed for disrespectful behaviour at the site, including tourists who attempt to recreate Anita Ekberg’s iconic scene from La Dolce Vida, where the actress springs into the water or the cases like the eight-person ght for a sele spot in 2018.

New British Ambassador arrives in Madrid

THE new British Ambassador to Spain and Andorra, Sir Alex Ellis has now arrived in Madrid to take over from previous Ambassador Hugh Elliott.

Having spent 34 years in the diplomatic service he has previously served as British Ambassador to Portugal, Brazil and most recently was High Commissioner to India as well as being Director General, Department for Exiting the European Union.

He therefore brings with him considerable skill in diplomatic matters and commenting upon his appointment he said “I am honoured to represent His Majesty Charles III and my country as Ambassador to Spain and Andorra.

“Our countries enjoy a close and enduring relationship across so many areas: between our citizens, our cultures, our armed forces and across the world of academia, science and commerce. I am looking forward to supporting this relationship to become even stronger.”

This will be Ellis’ second posting to Spain, a country he already knows well from his role in the British Embassy in Madrid in the early 2000s.

He will be presenting his credentials to His Majesty King Felipe VI in a cere-

NORWAY’s state-of-the-art luxury train operator, the Norient Express is set to launch in October 2025, o ering a unique six-day experience across Norway’s most stunning locations. A Norwegian take on the Orient Express, the two trains with luxurious interiors made from natural materials will host travellers on an unforgettable journey.

mony that will take place in the coming weeks and will then formally take over as British Ambassador at a time when it appears that the new Labour government is looking to improve relationships with the European Union.

No doubt he will also be involved in discussions with the Spanish government over the matter of the proposed Treaty between the EU, Gibraltar and the UK.

The new Ambassador is married with one son and may be followed at @AlexWEllis on X (previously Twitter).

Norient Express

With a special exercise room and an observatory, the trains will depart from Bergen, moving southeast towards and through Oslo before turning and heading north to end in Trondheim with Norway’s stunning views of serene lakes and mountains.

Electrically powered, the trains will also contribute to the development of the environmentally-friendly infrastructure, creating a balance between people and nature.

Details about launch dates and ticket prices are yet to be revealed.

Trevi fountain, Rome.

Sir Alex Ellis enjoying a Holi event in India.

Should stores open on Sundays? Your

AS the summer season comes to a close and the tourist crowds start to thin out, local residents will no longer have the luxury of Sunday grocery shopping. From now on, it will be essential for residents to reorganise their schedules and find time for grocery shopping during the weekdays or on Saturdays.

In contrast to the traditional view of Sunday as a day of rest, some European countries consider this practice outdated and allow shops to open on Sundays, partially or fully. They argue Sunday opening hours offer consumers greater flexibility to shop at their convenience, especially for those with demanding schedules. They also argue that Sunday openings can help alleviate congestion during peak shopping hours, leading to a more efficient and pleasant shopping experience for everyone.

On the contrary, opponents maintain that workers deserve a guaranteed day of rest, with Sunday being the preferred day for many, in order to enjoy quality time with their families, unwind, and recharge for the week ahead.

Curious to understand where our readers stood on this matter, Euro Weekly News asked, ‘Should stores open on Sundays?’

Be-Bop-Bollula Events felt that they should and said, “YES! You never know when you are going to run out of beer or guacamole.”

John Davies also felt they should

be allowed to open, expressing, “Yes, save them being too busy on Saturday and Monday. If Sunday is for kids, don’t change your routine, but think of others who want them to open. It doesn’t have to be long hours.”

Stephen Proctor offered food for thought when he shared, “They should have the option to open on a Sunday if they choose to. If people believe that shops should be closed on Sundays, then surely they would agree that bars, restaurants, and the like should be closed on Sundays too.”

Others, like Dot Devine, felt they should remain closed. “No, surely people can get all their shopping needs Monday to Saturday. Let them have a day off with their families like everyone else.”

Josephine Burke Staunton also agreed, “No - there are plenty of other days to shop - Sunday was always known as a day of rest.”

Ian Bushnell offered this pragmatic response: “Freedom of choice. They should be allowed to if they want to, as long as there are safeguards to prevent staff from being forced to work on Sundays.”

Brian Thorogood said, “The real issue is that the shops will not sell any more things by opening seven days a week, so their costs will increase with no increase in revenue. Therefore, prices will rise to maintain the bottom line.”

TEENAGERS across Europe will begin to notice a change in their YouTube recommendations, as the app will limit access to videos that promote unhealthy habits and ‘idealise’ certain body types.

As viewers fall into feedback loops of similar content with YouTube’s recommendations, many end up delving into more extreme videos, that despite claiming to be tness, may threaten viewers’ mental and physical health.

Last year, YouTube imposed new restrictions for teenage viewers in the US, under the guidance of its youth and fa-

Not recommended

mily advisory committee, which will now expand to Europe, to prevent young people from forming “negative beliefs about themselves,” as said in a public statement by the head of YouTube Health Dr Garth Graham and YouTube Youth director James Beser.

The statement highlighted that YouTube will now limit repeated recommendations of content that idealises par-

Poles in Spain

Adam Woodward RECENT studies have concluded that in 2023, 3,118 new Poles bought homes in Spain, more than the previous year by which time Polish-owned properties in Spain had tripled since pre-pandemic times. So, what elements of Spain are attracting Polish people all of a sudden?

It is said that the war in Ukraine has been having the biggest e ect on the perception of family safety, along with fears of a possible future Russian attack.

Estate agencies have also noted that the demographic has changed in terms of age, with much younger and lower income people moving to Spain rather than just retiring Poles.

A 2022 opinion poll in Poland reported that almost 50 per cent of the population believed that the possibility of a Russian ground assault on their country was a real threat.

The option for post-Covid remote working, increasingly better ight connections, and a more clement climate

have all played their part too.

A ranking of the best countries in the World to work remotely concluded that Spain is the best through lower general cost of living and reliable high-speed internet connections.

Brexit is also said to have had its e ect on the Poles and their choice of destination with less opportunities for work in the UK. But according to the word on the street from estate agencies, most cite possible escalation of the war in Ukraine.

ticular body types and tness levels, compares physical features, or shows intimidation and ghting, reporting that while it “may be innocuous as a single video,” it “could be problematic for some teens if viewed repetitively.”

With the new policy, YouTube will also redirect people to crisis hotlines when they search for things related to suicide, self-harm, and eating disorders.

While content creators may face a drop in views, the restrictions could keep thousands of teens across the world safe from developing mental and physical illnesses.

Poles seeking property in Spain.

IT seems the Brandweer Westhoek (Westhoek Fire Brigade) in the west of Belgium have become expert cattle wranglers.

For several years, they have been called out each summer to cows who have decided to escape the heat by wandering into local lakes and creeks to cool down, only to discover that they are unable to return to dry land.

In 2023, it was more than a dozen silly moos who got themselves stranded and this year no less than a bakers’ dozen (13) decided to take a dip near the tiny village of Po-

Cows in the MOOd

llinkhove and although they weren’t apparently in any distress they couldn’t get out!

Speaking to VRT News, Kristof Louagie of the Westhoek Fire Brigade explained “They had trouble reaching dry land because the banks are rather steep,” adding “We used an excavator to dig out a piece of the bank and make it less steep so they could get out.”

Despite the Fire O cers’ sterling work, the cows were determined to enjoy their dip and it wasn’t until several hours later that the last of the bovine paddlers decided it was time to call it a day and go home, leaving the o cers to clear up after them.

Amazingly, last year, the same Fire Brigade faced an even more complicated problem when they were asked to remove ve cows from a local swimming pool which they managed to do without any injury to the animals although the pool needed some deep cleaning afterwards.

New vegan Nutella

NUTELLA fans across Europe, especially those embracing plant-based diets, have reason to celebrate. Ferrero has introduced a vegan version of its beloved chocolate spread.

It’s currently available in France, Belgium and Italy. Released in honour of Ferrero’s 60th anniversary, this new version features distinctive green packaging. But how does it measure up compared to standard Nutella?

The shift to vegan was driven by rising demand for plant-based foods. Ferrero’s vegan Nutella replaces skimmed milk powder with ingredients like chickpeas and rice syrup.

However, it’s not suitable for those with milk allergies, as it’s produced in a facility handling dairy.

On the environmental

front, switching from cow’s milk to plant-based proteins reduces the carbon footprint, but experts say it’s a modest improvement.

Corentin Biardeau from The Shift Project notes that the bigger environmental issue lies with Nutella’s continued use of palm oil, which is linked to deforestation.

tives like sunflower or rapeseed oil.

Price is another talking point.

The vegan version costs nearly €12 per kilo, while the classic ranges from €6 to €11.

Palm oil produces significantly more carbon emissions than alterna-

This has sparked questions about why the plant-based option is more expensive, especially given that plant proteins are generally cheaper than milk.

FRANCE

Tower power

THE descendants of Gustave Eiffel criticised Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo’s plans to retain the Olympic rings that were added to the structure to promote the recently concluded Games. “The Eiffel tower should not become an advertising outpost,” said Olivier Berthelot-Eiffel who is the great-great-grandson of its designer.

Pastis clash

SUPPORTERS of the Olympique Marseille football club are boycotting Ricard pastis after manufacturer Pernod Ricard announced a commercial partnership with the Paris Saint-Germain club. They argue that pastis has been inseparable from the city since Marseille-born Paul Ricard began marketing it there in 1932.

DENMARK

Charged up

TEN per cent of the vehicles on Denmark’s roads are electric and now account for 55 per cent of all car sales, Mobility Denmark figures showed. With tax and registration fee incentives, more charging stations and greater range, the car industry organisation predicted that this proportion would rise to 30 per cent by 2030.

Listening in

UNIVERSITY OF COPENHAGEN researchers are using artificial intelligence to interpret the 19 different sounds made by pigs. “It’s fantastic that the University of Copenhagen has found a way to discover what pigs actually think about the way we treat them,” Animal Welfare professor Peter Sandsoe told the media.

ITALY

No queues

ROME has put 1,000 new taxi licences out to tender to solve the ongoing cab shortage before the 2025 Jubilee year when millions of pilgrims will flock to the city. Issuing new taxi licences for the first time in 20 years was important for Rome, city hall’s Mobility department said, especially in view of next year’s religious events.

Late justice

GIANNINO GOTTARDI, father of 28-yearold architect Marco who died with his partner Gloria Trecisan in the Grenfell Tower fire in June 2017, said the findings of the recently-published official report would finally enable him to obtain justice for them. He was not interested in money, only justice, he declared.

EURO PRESS

IRELAND

Lasting ties

MEMBERS of the Choctaw tribe and Thomas Byrne, Ireland’s Minister of State, gathered at the Choctaw Capital Grounds in Tuskahoma (Oklahoma) to unveil a sculpture honouring Choctaw-Irish links. These date from 1847 when Choctaw Indians donated $147, equivalent to €4,000 today, during the Potato Famine.

LONG RELATIONSHIP: Choctaw Indians helped the Irish during the Great Hunger.

FINLAND NORWAY SWEDEN

Cooling off

SUPPORT for Norway’s monarchy has waned after the arrest of Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s son from a previous relationship and Princess Martha Louise’s sale of her wedding photos, a Dagsavisen newspaper survey revealed. Forty per cent of participants agreed that Crown Prince Haakon should be Norway’s last king.

Stubbing out

WHILE the government is still studying a ban on smoking in outdoor public areas, the Norwegian Asthma and Allergy Association has called for a veto on restaurant terraces and outdoor dining areas. Sweden had managed this in 2019, the association said and predicted that there was unlikely to be an outcry in Norway.

Record summer

Down to earth

THE Aalto-1 satellite, built by Aalto University students and launched in 2017, has ended its seven-year orbit of the earth, the university’s Space Technology department announced. The satellite made its final pass over Finland on September 2 before re-entering the Earth’s atmosphere, where it burnt up and broke apart.

Cat crisis

STRAY cats are becoming an important animal welfare problem in Finland, where numbers have risen to around 20,000. Animal protection groups point out that the street cats have no legal protection and instead depend entirely on the efforts of volunteer organisations to trap, rescue and rehome them.

PORTUGAL BELGIUM

Phony police

PORTUGAL’S Judicial Police (PJ), equivalent to the UK’s CID, warned the public about a “massive” scam by fraudsters posing as the PJ to trick victims into disclosing their personal details and making a bank transfer. Criminals are using artificial intelligence to carry out campaigns like these, the police added.

Flu jabs

THE government plans to spend €7.6 million on making Covid-19 and flu vaccinations available in pharmacies, with the aim of protecting the majority of the population by late November. This year’s campaign has been brought forward owing to an anticipated rise in respiratory virus infections during the winter months.

Culture bid

HENT, Leuven, Kortrijk, Bruges, Sint-Jans-Molenbeek and Namur have submitted applications to be selected as European Capital of Culture 2030. Each receives a €3 million government grant to fund their bids for a title that in the past went to Antwerp (1993), Brussels (2000), Bruges (2002) and Mons (2015).

Sweet victory

CHOCOLATIERS Dominique and Julious Persoone recently displayed a 100-kilo chocolate bison with Canadian flags in their Bruges shop window. The bison is the symbol of Manitoba, and they were commemorating the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the city by the Twelfth Manitoba Dragoons.

Photo credit: Samuel Stitt, Choctaw Nation

TEMPERATURES in central and southern Sweden were no different from usual, but those in the north ‘very warm or even extreme’, according to the Meteorological Institute (SMHI). The country’s only tropical days when temperatures remained above 20C were recorded in Norrland, on June 24 and 25.

Don’t panic

AS always happens on the first Monday of each quarter, Sweden tried out its siren system at 3pm on Sunday September 1. Approximately half of the population live within earshot of one of the 4,500 sirens which were introduced in 1931 to alert the public to impending danger.

GERMANY

No delays

TRANSPORT minister Volker Wissing called on state-owned railways operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) to improve timetable punctuality “in the short term,” but especially on long-distance routes. He also reminded DB of the need to improve profitability and to make savings on administrative and managements costs.

Stern words

CHIEF EXECUTIVE of Deutsche Bank Christian Sewing declared on September 4 that Germans should assist the country’s economy by being prepared to work harder “and differently.” Sewing pointed out that an average EU citizen worked approximately 34 hours a week compared with 28 hours in Germany.

NETHERLANDS

Lights out

A POWER failure halted large sectors of Rotterdam’s industrial area for two hours on the morning of September 3. Eleven thousand homes were affected by the outage as well as terminals belonging to BP and Exxon, while goods trains and the metro between Steendijkpolder and the Hoek van Holland seafront were halted.

Rained off

TULIPS will cost more in future because continuous rain has forced growers to delay planting the small bulblets which they leave to mature until they are suitable for the flower sector. This will result in an ‘unprecedented shortage’ of bulbs which will push up the price of the cut flowers, industry insiders said.

Norway’s junk food EES 29 country list

No advertising for these products.

THE Norwegian government is planning to ban advertisements for food they deem is unhealthy, which might not go as far as the UK government’s plans, but do go much further than their European partners.

Norway is about to enact one of the most anti-junk food bans in its history impeding makers of unhealthy food from targeting kids and teenagers in their marketing.

The plan follows moves in the UK to do the same, and other smaller initiatives

around the European Union.

Until now, Norwegian food companies have self-regulated and steered more or less away from advertising that attracts children’s eyes, but this new ruling will make it mandatory. The new law would completely ban ads for what the Norwegian government considers to be junk food, including sweets, ice cream, and fizzy drinks, and instead set ‘nutrient thresholds’ to identify the unhealthiest food option in other food categories, such

as yoghurt and cereals with high sugar content.

There are likely to be hefty fines for violations as they also raise the ban’s age threshold to from 13 to 18 years old. This has been music to the ears of consumer advocates and the consternation of Norway’s food and drink industry.

Currently the Norwegian government is carrying out a public consultation, but early indicators suggest the bill is receiving plenty of support from the people.

BRITISH holidaymakers flying to any of these 29 destinations may need to register their fingerprints for entry from November when the highly anticipated Entry/Exit System (EES) is scheduled to be launched after experiencing numerous delays and setbacks.

The good news is that UK residents in Spain with a TIE card will be exempt from EES registration. However, the same does not apply to those who still have the non-biometric Green Certificate.

All 25 EU countries, excluding Cyprus and Ireland, will adopt the Entry/ Exit System as they are also Schengen State Members. The remaining four Schengen Area members are Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Lichtenstein.

For the avoidance of doubt, the full 29 countries are Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Ne-

therlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

It’s worth noting that in addition to airports, other modes of transportation will also be introducing EES. For example, the Entry/Exit System will also be implemented at specific points in South England.

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

ADVERTISING FEATURE

PRESENTS

ARE you ready to immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of Northern Soul and Motown? If so, mark your calendars for the Northern Soul + Motown Party at Benidorm Palace on September 15 and 16. This is the first event of its kind at this iconic venue, and it promises to be a memorable celebration of music and dance!

This two-day extravaganza features a jam-packed lineup of incredible live acts and talented DJs from the Northern Soul and Motown scene. Headlining the event are Northern Soul The Signatures and Northern Live Do I Love You, two of the UK’s most authentic tribute bands, known for their high-energy performances. The legendary Russ Winstanley, founder of the famous Wigan Casino, will also be spinning his classic Northern Soul tracks alongside 14 other top DJs who will keep the music going all day and night.

Not only will you experience the best in live music, but you’ll also be treated to a world-class sound system that will make you feel like you’re right in the heart of the action. The atmos-

phere at Benidorm Palace will be electric, with food available at just €10 per day and a variety of activities to keep the party going.

Tickets are priced at just €65 for a two-day pass, granting access to all performances and events. For those who can only attend one day, a one-day pass is available for €45, valid for either Sunday, September 15, or Monday, September 16. Both ticket options offer great value for money, considering the stellar lineup and packed entertainment schedule.

by

the

Wristbands for entry can be picked up at the Benidorm Palace ticket office in advance or on the day of the event. Keep in mind that lost wristbands cannot be replaced, so be sure to keep them safe!

You can purchase your tickets online at Benidorm Palace’s

For those wanting to get into the groove early, don’t miss the pre-party at The Soul Bar on September 13 and 14, from 12 noon till late. This cosy venue is the perfect place to mingle with fellow soul lovers and enjoy music from Fresh Radio, the event’s official supporter.

This is a party you won’t want to miss! Grab your tickets, dance the night away, and celebrate the music that moves your soul!

Male Voices

IF you are a man who regularly finds himself singing in the shower or the car, you might like to consider joining the Costa Blanca Male Voice Choir (CBMVC) in Teulada. This is a great opportunity to become part of a supportive and talented community of singers who have members from across Europe, including British, Dutch and German, to name a few.

Aside from the joy of performing at various events and venues, the Choir also supports local charities which include Children of EMAUS, DAR Centre for Autistic Children, and the Protecion Civil of Benidoleig.

It takes great pride in its diverse repertoire, which includes a wide range of musical styles such as pop, classical, and

traditional pieces. With the expert guidance of their Musical Director, John Oliver Edwards, and their permanent piano accompanist, Kirsty Glenn, their concerts are always of the highest standard, fostering the confidence of their members to deliver outstanding performances.

A particular highlight of their annual calendar is the Concert in the Caves of Benidoleig, a truly extraordinary event that provides both the performers and the audience with a unique and unforgettable experience.

Their next performance will be at the Music Overload Concert on October 12 at the Lady Elizabeth School Theatre in Benitachell. This exceptional concert includes an orchestra, the CBMVC and nine other choirs, and tickets are €12.50.

website or

calling

ticket hotline on +34 965 851 660.

Donna Williams

Credit: Costa Blanca Male Voice Choir

beauty

Fashion Forward

Donna Williams

FASHIONISTAS

should consider joining the very first ‘Fashion Forward El Campello’ gathering, scheduled at the Casa de Cultura on September 13 and 14. This event aims to facilitate dialogue among fashion professionals, designers, independent creators, and sustainability advocates.

The agenda includes a diverse range of activities, such as showcasing emerging talents through a new creators’ fashion show and hosting insightful talks and interactive workshops. In addition, the event will feature a captivating catwalk and a digital exhibition showcasing the talents of emerging designers.

Curated by Ana Surma and Emmanuel Symbol, the catwalk fashion show will showcase the creations of renowned designers such as Apalancaos, Le Pimp, The Plug For..., Romeo Cappry, Odis, Symbol, Surma designs, Adriani Maldonado, and Holly Gnarly, among others.

Simultaneously, the digital exhibition will present the works of visionary designers including Iban Ragel, Irene Narciso, Eduardo Jara, Marina Botella, Nikola Stankovic, and Plastic by Sisters Lapay, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for all attendees. There will also be a number of workshops for which you will need to register due to capacity. These include Digital Stamping, Shoe Customisation, and a Crochet Workshop. The Shoe Workshop is considered a highlight as participants will have the opportunity to unleash their creativity and personalise their footwear.

For the full agenda and to register for any of the workshops visit www.elcampelloturis mo.com.

Musical of the Eighties

GET ready to be transported back to the vibrant musical landscape of the 1980s with this new production by Theatre Properties, which is playing on September 13 and 14 at the Teulada Moraira Auditorium. Brought to you by the same producer behind acclaimed musicals like ‘Peter the Musical,’ ‘Annie,’ ‘Jekyll & Hyde,’ ‘Romeo and Juliet: An Immortal Love,’ and ‘The Full Monty,’ this large-format, original production promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Featuring a total of 24 musical numbers and over 35 iconic songs from the 80s Spanish pop scene, the show weaves together a fresh and con-

Credit: Shutterstock: TierneyMJ

temporary story that will capture the heart. With a compelling narrative infused with great values, and complemented by stunning scenography, elaborate costumes, and authentic-looking staging, this production promises to immerse the audience in an unforgettable experience, making each spectator an integral part of the story.

The show boasts an impressive cast including Silvia Villau, Javi Mota, Giampaolo Picucci, Sergio Guerrero, Rosana Viei-

The show will be performed at 8.00pm on September 13 and then at 5.00pm and 8.00pm on September 14. Tickets start from €42 per person and can be purchased by visiting auditoriteulada moraira.es. Alternatively, the Auditorium Box Office is open from Tuesday to Friday (11.00am to 1.00pm, and 5.00pm to 7.00pm) and two hours before the show starts on Saturday.

ra, Mario Barrero, Aitana Cazalilla, Daniel Aragon, and Amaya Bendowski.

Credit: Shutterstock: Belish

Artisans in Javea

La Cala fiesta

THE weekend of September 13 to 15 will be one of celebration as this is the time for the La Cala Fiesta. This exciting event is the result of a collaboration between the Villajoyosa Town Council and Finestrat Town Council, marking the first-ever joint commemoration of the La Cala festivities. The fun will take place in the lively area of the public parking in front of the beach, and it promises to be a weekend filled with entertaining activities and joy for all attendees.

Highlights for September 13 include a lively parade featuring a music band that will pass along the beach promenade, starting from Placa de l’Amfora and culminating at Avenida Rosa de los Vientos. The day will conclude with a dynamic live per-

formance by the rock ‘n’ roll band Black Night at 10.00pm.

September 14 is dedicated to the youngsters. Between midday and 7.00pm, children’s attractions will be available, including a mini-disco at 4.00pm. The highlight of the evening will be a performance by the acclaimed group ‘Manolos Plateados’ at 10.00pm. The concert will conclude with the ‘obligatory’ fireworks, followed by Lady DJ Sassy to keep the party going.

September 15 features a heartwarming event: a popular solidarity race in support of Caritas. Participants will register at 9.30am, and the race will kick off at 11.00am from the beach promenade. It will cover a three-kilometre route through the streets of the La Cala neighbourhood.

Donna Williams

IF you enjoyed the fair in the port of Javea that bid goodbye to visitors on September 1, then you are in luck, because it is coming back!

The artisans of the craft association Amata are gearing up for the return of their fair, which will take place starting September 13. Throughout September, they will showcase their work at the fair on Fridays and Saturdays from 7.00pm to 11.00pm.

Then, once we hit October, the fair will transition back to its traditional schedule of opening on Sunday mornings.

If you have never been before, the fair is a delightful and engaging event that entices both locals and vi-

sitors alike. With its wide array of artisanal skills presented by around 15 stallholders, the fair represents a unique opportunity to celebrate and support the talents of skilled craftspeople.

Amata has been organising these events for over a decade, carefully selecting stalls to offer a diverse range of handcrafted treasures. What’s more, artisans can often accommodate custom orders for variations in colour, personalisation, or size.

What makes this fair

particularly enchanting is its location, which offers breathtaking views of the port and the surrounding mountains. It’s a unique opportunity to appreciate Javea’s natural beauty, and the ambience is further enhanced by the presence of numerous inviting terraces along the seashore.

The fair is located at the Paseo Maritimo of the Port of Javea and details of any changes to the opening times can be found on their Facebook (fairartesanja vea).

Wine Connoisseurs

Donna Williams

IF you enjoy the finer things in life, such as good restaurants and fine wines, you may like to consider joining the Costa Blanca Wine Society. Established in 1992 by Anton Massel, an esteemed oenologist, members gather each month for delightful dinner gatherings at esteemed restaurants in Denia, Javea, Moraira, or Calpe.

The membership is diverse and includes individuals from various nationalities, united by a shared passion for wine. For ease of communication, events are pri-

marily conducted in English, and members’ wine knowledge varies considerably. The society’s intention is for social occasions to provide opportunities for knowledge growth and, of course, to enjoy some delectable wines, principally from Spain. Aside from the monthly dinners, they also organise four-day trips to a different wine region of Spain, where participants visit several of the local wineries. As you might expect, these trips are extremely well-attended and are often oversubscribed.

Tapas party

Following this musical delight, the festivities will continue until midnight, ensuring that everyone can make the most of this last summer party. Even better, Els Mejorals 2025 will provide an affordable bar service. Credit:

are permanent residents of Spain, others are frequent visitors to the Costa Blanca North region. According to their website, they boast a membership of over 120 individuals, which indicates their popularity.

That said, they are still open to expanding their membership and enthusiastically invite enquiries to expand their diverse community.

ELS MAJORALS 2025 - El Cuc have organised an exciting tapas party called ‘TapaCuc’, which will take place on Saturday September 14, starting from noon in Placa Sant Antoni de La Nucia. This event has been put together in collaboration with the Department of Festivities of the town of La Nucia and the Associacio de Penyes La Nucia.

The TapaCuc event promises a delightful array of tapas to savour and will feature a live performance by the talented local group, The Boliquets.

all priced at a reasonable €3. The lively atmosphere will continue at 5.00pm when The Boliquets will perform.

While some members

If you would to know more about the Wine Society or apply for membership, visit www.costablancawineso ciety.com.

Admission to TapaCuc is completely free, and this event has been arranged to raise funds for the Festes d’Agost organised by els Majorals 2025. The festivities will kick off at 12 noon with a bar offering a diverse selection of home-made and traditional tapas from the region,

Credit: lanucia.es

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.

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Prehistoric fun

Donna Williams

DISCOVER the remarkable DinoPark, Algar, that promises a captivating experience for the entire family. An amusement park nestled in stunning surroundings near the popular tourist destination of Benidorm, this unique park offers an engaging blend of entertainment and education.

immersive experience for all. As with all good-quality amusement parks, DinoPark offers a range of amenities that further enhance the overall experience, including refreshments and the requisite gift shop where visitors can purchase a dinosaur-themed souvenir to remember their time there.

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 park features incredible, lifelike robotic dinosaur models that will appeal to both adults and children alike. It also has an interactive paddling pool for children, a paleontological playground, and a delightful array of cacti, adding to the authenticity of the setting.

The park also boasts a dedicated 3D cinema that is a must-see for visitors. Entrance to the cinema is conveniently included in the ticket price, offering an

DinoPark is located at Partida Segarra s/n, Callosa d’en Sarria, approximately 17km from Benidorm and 8km from Altea. The park estimates that the tour will take approximately one to two hours, although it will likely be longer if you come with small children.

Admission is €15 for adults and €10 for children between ages four and 12, and the park is currently open between 10.00am and 6.00pm every day. For full details, visit www.dinopark.eu.

Namaste

THE literal translation of ‘Namaste’ is ‘I bow to you’. It is generally heard at the end of a yoga session with a movement in which palms are placed together in front of the heart or brow, and the head is bowed slightly. This gesture represents the belief that there is a divine spark between each of us located in the heart centre and is an acknowledgement of one soul to another.

If you have never tried yoga, there are many reasons to give it a go. First and foremost, it is a great way to meet like-minded people and release any stresses or tension that may have built up. In fact, according to the National Institute of

Health, it is scientifically proven that yoga supports stress management, mental health, mindfulness, healthy eating, weight loss, and quality sleep.

In addition, it can provide many benefits to physical health, including strength, balance, and flexibility. Yoga is also perfect for easing lower back pain, aiding heart health and easing arthritic problems.

Numerous yoga sessions are taking place across Costa Blanca North, offering plenty of options for you to find one close to your location. Many of these sessions are listed on Facebook, and you may also want to explore www.costablancaforum. com, where you can find several listings.

Credit: FB: dinoparkalgar

Health restart

DENIA Town Council has organised a free event on Saturday, September 14, to promote health and well-being through sport, nutrition, and motivation.

Entitled ‘Restart your Health’, the event will take place at the Casa de la Cultura, and admission is free, capacity permitting. It will include a series of workshops led by experts on subjects such as personal cardiovascular and strength training, nutrition, and sports psychology. The aim of these workshops is to aid participants in improving their physical and mental health.

The first workshop ‘Motivation and Sport’ will commence at 10.00am and will explore how to maintain motivation in sports practice, and how to face the fears that hold us

back. This will be followed by ‘Nutrition by Day’ at 10.45am where participants will be advised on how to select essential foods for a balanced diet.

Then, at 11.45, the workshop ‘Cardiovascular Exercise’ will begin, hosted by a personal trainer who specialises in running. He will explain how to establish the correct physical condition to start running as part of a regular routine. Finally, ‘Strength Exercise’ will take place at 12.15pm, where the importance of strength exercise and how to achieve good physical condition will be addressed.

The workshops will be followed by a sports round table discussion, ‘Let’s give a voice to sport’, where the importance of maintaining healthy sporting habits will be discussed.

Entertainment Top

IT is fair to say that Benidorm is widely recognised for its extensive number of bars. For visitors unfamiliar with the area, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming, making it difficult to decide where to go. To help with this, the Benidorm Enthusiast sought recommendations from its followers and detailed below are the five that received the most votes:

Rock & Roll House

An adults-only bar featuring a vast collection of 60s memorabilia, creating

a nostalgic and welcoming atmosphere. The friendly staff and exceptional tribute acts, such as performances honouring Elvis Presley and Shakin’ Stevens, make it a highly rated establishment.

Jail Rock

A bustling bar where patrons come to dance and have a good time. Carnaby Street, a popular act that performs a mix of Oasis and The Jam, are regular performers.

Tropical Bar

A family-friendly bar offering a variety of nightly entertainment, including tribute acts. The bar is

known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff.

Morgan Tavern

This bar gained fame through the TV series Benidorm, as scenes in the ‘Neptune Bar’ were filmed there. It is known for high-quality tribute acts, including the popular Queen Forever.

Western Saloon

Recently refurbished after the pandemic, this bar is always bustling with a lively crowd. Known for its quality acts and sound system, the bar offers nonstop entertainment from 2.00pm to 2.00am.

Credit: denia.com

Donna Williams

Credit: FB: western.benidorm

Altea 2024

LATE to the party but then again, offering yet another month of festivities after a celebratory August, Altea will start their official Patron Saint activities during the fourth weekend of September as is their tradition. However, to get everyone in a party mood, they have organised some events leading up to the big weekend.

These commenced on September 6 with performances from the Musical Recreational Society of Altea and the Altea Philharmonic Society. Don’t worry, there is still plenty to look forward to this weekend, September 14 and 15

Saturday September 14

The fiesta queens’ coronation will occur at the Palau dels Esports Vila d’Altea at 8.00pm. During this touching ceremony,

festive officials and the girls and young women participating in the courts of honour come together for a deeply emotional experience. This joint act involves the participation of both the Federation of Moors and Christians and the Festival Commission of the Stm. Cristo del Sagrari, making it a significant event for all involved.

Sunday September 15

The Offering of Flowers to the Virgin of the Consolation will take place at 11.00am in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. A solemn Mass will follow this in honour of the Virgin of the Consolation at 12.00pm. Participants are being encouraged to dress in traditional clothing for the Offering of the Flowers as they celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Canonical Coronation of Our Lady of Consolation.

PHOENIX RISING Spiritualists are celebrating their first highly successful, and acclaimed year, by launching a Spiritual Fair on Saturday September 14 at Carrer Les Escoles in Alfaz del Pi.

We aim to showcase our distinct activities by inviting our International Mediums, Clairvoyants, Healers and Spirit Workers; and readings, healing sessions and spiritual advice are freely available, subject to availability, on the day.

Our list of International Mediums includes: Marion Parmenter, Jan van Bodegraven, John Doherty and Kenny Corris.

Deborah Sutton will work

Phoenix Rising Spiritual Fair

with Tarot and Carole Fleury will offer her renown Angel Readings.

Spiritual healing is available with psychic healer Sylvia Hartshorn and Ulrich Bos will offer Healing through massage.

On sale will be a variety of spiritually themed merchandise, whilst crafts include stunning patchwork goods by Jaqui Silcox and cosy knitteds by Pauline Kernick.

Come and meet a dedicated team of Spiritualist workers that are well known in their field.

Bring your spiritual questions and get answers! You are assured a warm welco-

me, admission is free and we aim to have a wonderful day together.

Doors open at 11.00 and last readings are about 15.00. Parking and on street parking are available. Refreshments will be at the nearby Cafeteria Gaudi. We look forward to welcoming you and meeting you in person.

If you have questions before the event please contact Kenny Corris on: 686 361 594/ What’s App We warmly acknowledge the continuing support of the Alfaz Town Hall, without which this event, and our weekly meetings, would not be possible.

Donna Williams

Don’t binge watch Netflix

WHO would have thought that the simple act of binge watching a series on Netflix could be bad for the environment due to the carbon dioxide emissions?

This is the conclusion that Dr Kari Hiekkanen, visiting researcher at Aalto University in Finland has come to and he says it’s even worse as many people combine watching their favourite series whilst simultaneously browsing social media which requires a significant amount of energy.

According to Hiekkanen, tech companies are reluctant to admit the range of their negative contribution to the environment but in 2023, he claims that Google’s energy consumption was equal to a quarter of the annual amount of energy used

in Finland.

He is on record as stating “Every device, including its manufacturing process, consumes electricity.

“The emissions from ICT (Information and Communications Technology) represents an inconvenient truth and digitalisation has been touted as a solution to numerous challenges, yet it is crucial for people to recognise that it comes with its own set of problems.”

Toxic toys

Harry Sinclair

ON September 5, the European Parliament backed a proposal aiming to improve the safety of toys available on the EU market.

The proposal had a particular focus on harmful substances and toxins in toys.

For instance, streaming videos on your device, such as TikTok, generates significantly more carbon emissions than listening to an audiobook and raising awareness is key to recognising that digital consumption does indeed consume energy.

Dr Hiekkanen therefore suggests that it’s time for consumers to reclaim control over how they spend their time.

The European Commission put forth a proposal for a new regulation in 2023 to “ensure that children are even more protected when playing with toys, including harmful chemicals,” said Commissioner Thierry Breton.

Included in the regulation is a ban on endocrine-disrupting chemicals and respiratory sensitisers on top of the existing prohibition on carcinogenic, mutagenic and toxic substances.

Children are highly sensitive to any substance that could affect their brains and endocrine systems, which are still developing and susceptible to chemicals.

Respiratory sensitisers have been

proven to lead to an increase in childhood asthma, neurotoxic substances are harmful to developing brains, and endocrine disruptors alter normal hormonal activity in the body, showing effects later in life.

Under the new Commission proposal manufacturers will need to create a Digital Product Passport which will provide information on the compliance of toys.

In addition, manufacturers should also carry out safety assessments before placing a product on the market, which will cover all chemical, physical, mechanical, electrical, flammability, hygiene and radioactivity hazards, including potential exposure to all of these aspects.

The next step to finalise these requirements will be for the regulations to undergo inter-institutional negotiations between Parliament, the Commission and the Council.

Second-hand sales; tax owed

IF you’re using platforms like Wallapop or Vinted to sell second-hand items, be aware of new tax obligations in Spain. A recent European directive now requires these online marketplaces to report transactions to tax authorities if your sales exceed €2,000 annually or if you make more than 30 transactions in a year.

Failing to declare these earnings could result innes, and some users have already faced penalties. However, Wallapop estimates that less than 1 per cent of its 19 million users will be a ected by these rules.

For most casual sellers,

this won’t mean much change, but it’s essential to stay informed.

If you sell an item for more than you originally paid, that pro t must be reported as a capital gain, with taxes ranging from 19 to 23 per cent.

Professional sellers are required to pay taxes just like any other business, including issuing an IVA (sales tax) invoice for each item. Casual sellers, on the other hand, typically won’t face tax implications unless they make a pro t.

To avoid any surprises, keep track of your sales, and if you’re approaching the threshold, consider consulting a tax advisor. And as always, be mindful of online scams - both Vinted and Wallapop o er guidelines on how to protect yourself.

Bruges fights over-tourism

BRUGES is joining the European countries cracking down on over-tourism by addressing short-term holiday rentals and cruise ships.

Bruges, in Belgium, is a UNESCO World Heritage City, with its famed cobbled streets, canals and medieval architecture, and a tourist hotspot recording more than 8.3 million visitors in 2023.

But a city of less than 120,000 residents has now fallen victim to over-tourism and the lasting effects it has.

The mayor of Bruges, Dirk De fauw spoke on this topic, stating “People have started indicating that there are just too many visitors. If we just let everyone do what they want, things

will quickly go wrong.”

In response to this issue, the city has implemented a ban on the construction of new hotels, specifically in its historic centre, in addition to stopping new holiday home permits across the city.

Bruges is not the only European city to combat the negative effects of tourism. Earlier this year, Barcelona announced a citywide ban on shortterm rentals by 2029.

Dirk De fauw ruled out the option of tourist tax, stating “We cannot and do not want to control access to the city, like Dubrovnik or Venice,” but in 2019, limits were placed on cruise ships docking in Bruges, with a maximum of two per day.

Warsaw’s world record attempt

Letara Draghia BELGIAN photographer

Filip Blommaert and Austrian freediver Christin Gerstorfer have set a new benchmark for underwater artistry with their recent attempt at the deepest underwater photoshoot. The duo reached a remarkable depth of 45.4 metres at Deepspot, Europe’s deepest diving pool, located in Warsaw, Poland.

tubular shaft, which simulates free-falling. Blommaert likened the descent to “flying to the bottom”. The shoot involved meticulous planning, with Blommaert completing two warm-up dives and two shooting dives, while Gerstorfer posed at the bottom, using weights to descend and an underwater scooter to resurface.

Wings in the Deep photoshoot.

Blommaert, known for his adventurous spirit, collaborated with Gerstorfer to break new ground in both freediving and photography. The concept for this record-breaking attempt was conceived during a trip to the Philippines, where Blommaert and Gerstorfer connected over their shared passion for pushing limits.

The photoshoot, titled Wings in the Deep, took place in Deepspot’s 45-metre

Logistical challenges arose, including the buoyancy of the wings used in the photos, which required additional weight to sink. Despite these obstacles, the team, including safety divers and makeup artist Marike De Meester, ensured the shoot’s success.

Blommaert now aims to push even further, with ambitions of diving to 60 metres and ultimately reaching 100 metres. The record awaits official verification by Guinness World Records.

Credit: Instagram.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Try again

MARKS & SPENCER continues to hope that it can finally raze its iconic Art Deco flagship Oxford Street store and replace it with a 10-floor store and office block combined. The retailer has now asked Housing secretary and deputy PM Angela Rayner to review plans that were blocked by the previous government.

Sweet treats

A BARCLAYCARD survey found that while people might be tightening their belts, they were also treating themselves to modest impulse buys like cosmetics, confectionery and pastries. “There is an emerging trend of consumers indulging in retail therapy for mood-boosting pick-me-ups,” said Karen Johnson, Barclays’ Retail chief.

New face

JOSE LUIS ESCRIVA BELMONTE, a Cabinet minister during the last two legislative terms, was named Governor of the Bank of Spain on September 4. The 63-yearold from Albacete, who has a background in banking, replaces Pablo Hernandez de Cos, whose six-year mandate came to an end on June 10.

Right formula

BANCO SANTANDER announced that from 2025 onwards it would be the official banking partner and a principal sponsor of Liberty Media, which owns the commercial and audiovisual rights to Formula 1. The announcement arrived shortly after Santander confirmed that it was not renewing its Ferrari sponsorship.

Open the tap

ALCOHOL-FREE Guinness will soon be available on draught at London pub The Devonshire, the first although it will cost £6.35 (€7.53), which is only 55p (roughly €0.65) less than an ordinary pint. Although available on tap in Ireland, Guinness 0.0 has until now been sold exclusively in cans in the UK.

STAT OF WEEK

€4 billion

received by the Spanish state in dividends and sales since 2012 as a result of its holding in bailed-out Bankia, now part of CaixaBank.

John Lewis turns landlord

THE John Lewis Partnership (JLP) submitted £80 million (€94.9 million) plans to convert a disused site in Reading into 215 rental apartments.

One 10th of the properties at a former John Lewis distribution centre opposite the Oracle shopping centre would be let at affordable rents, said JLP’s Build-to-rent director Katherine Russell.

“These will be homes not only developed by us, but managed by us,” Russell said. “That means we can offer quality service and a guarantee that the homes will not be sold off, as so often happens in the rental market.”

Sharon White, JLP’s chairman - she prefers this to chairwoman - leaves the post in September, some months ahead of her five-year term.

In 2021 White announced that the company hoped to generate 40 per cent of its profits from rentals, rental management and construction by 2030, although these plans were later scrapped “owing to the economic climate.”

White’s successor Jason Tarry, a former Tesco executive, is expected to put extra focus on turning around the retail performance of the John Lewis stores and the Waitrose supermarket chain which also

THE Cupra Tavascan made by Spain’s Seat, a Volkswagen subsidiary, could be “wiped out” by EU tariffs, according to chief executive Wayne Griffith.

All Cupra models are designed in Spain, but not all are produced at Seat’s Martorell (Barcelona) plant. Others, including the all-electric Tavascan, are made in China.

That means the Tavascan would be hit by the 21.3 per cent tariff introduced to offset the Chinese government’s ‘unfair’ subsidies for EVs.

A Tavascan sells for approximately €52,000 and raising its price

Vat-trap

BUSINESSES in Britain lost up to £4.3 billion (€5.1 billion) this summer by eliminating VAT-free shopping for tourists.

Rishi Sunak removed the concession in 2021 when he was Chancellor, but visitors who would have come to the UK shop elsewhere now they must pay the added value tax on purchases, according to critics.

Any loss of income would be offset by more spending on hotels, transports and leisure, retailers said.

belongs to the company. Nevertheless, the Reading development will be JLP’s third foray into the rentals market as it continues to convert underused or disused sites into housing.

A Waitrose site in Bromley (South London) will be turned into 300 rental homes with another project planned for West Ealing.

This has currently stalled owing to residents’ opposition to plans for 400 properties and a 19-storey apartment block above a Waitrose supermarket.

Brussels hits Cupra

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.

would be unfeasible in the existing economic environment, Griffiths said. Volkswagen would be unable to absorb the additional costs, he added.

Relocating production was impracticable owing to the company’s investment in its Anhui plant, Griffiths stated, while warning that Cupra could miss the EU’s carbon dioxide reduction targets next year and face heavy fines.

“It puts the whole financial future of the company at risk,” he warned.

Post-merger jobs lost

MASORANGE, resulting from the MasMovil and Orange merger, announced a voluntary redundancy scheme affecting roughly 9 per cent of its 8,700 employees.

When MasOrange was officially launched in April, the telecommunications company undertook to invest €4 billion over the next three years and pledged that existing jobs would be maintained.

A note to employees has now explained that the first months of operations had revealed “organisational duplications” which prompted the need for staff adjustments.

Although MasOrange said that the cuts conformed to conditions agreed with the government, Spain’s two principal unions, CCOO and UGT, have already rejected the proposed redundancies.

SHARES in Rightmove, Britain’s largest property portal, shot up 27.6 per cent to £7.9 (€9.37) on September 2 following takeover hints. REA Group, in which Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp has a 61 per cent stake, said that a bid would probably involve both a cash and shares offer, although no approach had yet been made.

Rightmove, whose website lists real estate agents, had a market value of almost £4.4 billion £4.4 billion (€5.2 billion) on August 30 and £5.59 billion (€6.63 billion) by September 2.

SPAIN’S National Securities Market Commission (CNMV) received 1,364 complaints from investors in 2023, the regulator revealed on September 4.

The Commission handled 1,350 claims last year, rejecting 464 and admitting 886, while processing a total of 71.8 per cent. In 51.4 per cent of the cases, the CNMV found in favour of the claimant, compared with 49.6 per cent in 2022. Although CNMV rulings are not binding, 83 per cent of the investigated companies and entities complied with its recommendations.

EMPLOYEES are taking longer to return to London offices than their counterparts in Paris and New York. They spend an average 2.7 days per week in the office, compared with 3.5 for Parisians and 3.1 for New Yorkers, the Centre for Cities thinktank found, and attendance is only 60 per cent of 2019’s pre-Covid levels. Working from home could pose a long-term challenge to the British economy, Centre for Cities said, and called on the government to work closely with businesses to reverse the trend.

FUTURE HOMES: The latest John Lewis development in Reading.

Photo credit: John Lewis Partnership

Photo credit: Seat Media Centre

WAYNE GRIFFITHS: Seat chief executive slated Brussels’ EV tariffs.

3I Group 3.071,00 3.080,00 3.060,35 80,9K

Group 2.797,00 2.811,00 2.788,00 24,3K Airtel Africa 111,6 111,9 110,5 286,44K

American 2.065,50 2.107,50 2.061,50 203,21K

1.690,50 1.700,00 1.677,00 96,18K Ashtead Group 5.255,40 5.278,00 5.228,00 31,8K

British Foods 2.254,80 2.285,00 2.240,70 164,73K

12.598,00 12.656,00 12.552,00 124,93K Auto Trader Group Plc 862 866,4 855,4 395,55K Aviva 488,8 490,7 485,8 613,58K

B&M European Value Retail SA 435,4 439,9 434,9 272,54K BAE Systems 1.311,50 1.318,00 1.297,00 413,1K

224,2 227,35 222,45 4,64M Barratt Developments 491,9 506,8 488 1,83M

Beazley 760 776,5 760 189,72K

Berkeley 4.924,00 5.017,50 4.906,00 14,26K

BP 407,93 410,07 407,32 4,51M British American Tobacco 2.903,00 2.905,00 2.888,00 280,02K

3.607,00 3.608,00 3.576,00 39,42K

Group 624,4 634,6 614,6 490,55K

BUSINESS

EXTRA

Dubai prize

ACCIONA and FCC are submitting bids to build and maintain Dubai’s sewerage and stormwater drainage system.

The Spanish companies will be competing with firms from Italy China, South Korea, Turkey and Egypt for the $22 billion (€19.8 billion) contract.

Diverse aims

THE BBC intends to cut around 3 per cent of its work force, affecting 115 editorial and production posts, as it fights to save money. Meanwhile, the broadcaster is also committed to allocating £80 million (€94.9) to diversity programmes.

Live music bonanza

BRITAIN’S live music industry contributed £6.1 billion (€7.24 billion) to the national economy in 2023.

This was the first time that sales had topped £6 billion (€7.12 billion) as fans flocked to live events once more after the pandemic years, revealed Live, the federation that represents the sector in the UK.

The 55,000 gigs, concerts and festivals staged in 2023 grew by 17 per cent in 2022 and were 35 per cent up on 2019 before the

BBVA inches closer

IF the BBVA’s €12 billion hostile Sabadell takeover goes ahead, there will be no problem with Britain’s TSB.

The Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) has authorised BBVA to take indirect control of TSB, which Sabadell owns, the bank announced on September 3. Portugal, France, Morocco and the US where Sabadell also has interests have given similar consent. Not only Sabadell

but also the Madrid government opposes the takeover, as Economy minister Carlos Cuerpo said that combining both banks could affect Spain’s financial system and impact jobs and clients.

BBVA, which hopes to acquire 50.01 per cent of Sabadell shares, admits that this could take between six and eight months, after which it needs shareholders’ approval.

pandemic hit.

Last year’s concerts increased 19 per cent year on year, thanks to tours by Beyonce and Coldplay amongst others, accounting for almost three-quarters of 2023’s turnover, Live said.

The 2023 figure originated not only from direct ticket sales but also spending at events and in businesses in the immediate area which benefited from the influx of the public.

Live’s chief executive Jon Collins said the much-discussed financial aspects of Taylor Swift’s 2024 Eras tour, and next year’s Oasis reunion, emphasised the benefits of concerts, festivals and live performances on local economies.

National Arenas Association statistics revealed that for every 10,000 people who attended a live music event, £1 million (€1.19 million) would be spent in local restaurants, bars, shops and hotels.

Pay rise

AMAZON employees’ pay will increase by 9.8 per cent after the online retailer crushed the GMB union’s bid for bargaining rights over pay and conditions. Hourly pay will rise to between £13.50 (€16.02) and £14.50 (€17.20), while staff with three or more years’ service will receive between £13.75 (€16.31) and £14.75 (€17.50) an hour.

SPANISH company Indra Sistemas has signed a 1.1 billion zlotys (€256 million) contract to supply Poland’s Defence ministry with 15 portable radar control systems. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Poland has gradually increased its defence spending and this year will spend roughly 4 per cent of its gross domestic product on equipping its armed forces. On the radar

Photo credit: Pexels

LIVE EVENTS: Hefty contribution to the UK economy in 2023.

Something must be done

LEAPY

LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK

IT

THESE latest revelations of paedophilia and ‘sex for aid’ didn’t surprise me one bit. Frankly I also consider it merely the tip of the iceberg. I believe that many of the organisations that deal with children are positively riddled with these low life predators. After all, if I were a junkie I would go where the drugs are. If my habit was gambling I would seek out gambling joints. It stands to reason that those who feel the need to prey on youngsters go where they can find children.

Church and teaching organisations, charitable organisations, children’s hospitals and so on, all are vulnerable to the infiltration of these evil beings that destroy young lives before they have barely begun. A recent report by an ex UN official stated that UN aid workers, may not only have raped up to 60,000 people over the last 10 years, but are estimated to employ some 3,000 paedophiles in their worldwide operation.

One terribly sad result of these alar-

ming, seemingly never-ending revelations, is that decent men and women, who sincerely want to help and care for the young, are shying away and entering other professions, simply because they don’t want to be regarded with suspicion by their peers.

Even stating publicly that you love children can attract a ‘funny’ look in some circumstances. If this unacceptable situation is allowed to continue unchecked, sooner or later the majority of children’s charity workers will all be sex abusers and paedophiles.

So where do you start? Well first of all there needs to be a worldwide easily accessible data centre, which holds a record of every worker who has been sacked for abuse of any kind. This would ensure that these people at least could never get into any other organisation that involved children.

Secondly, those at the very top need to be thoroughly vetted. After all it stands to reason, if they are rife with such large numbers of offenders, some could quite easily be in board and management positions. This would also explain the fact that there have been numbers of occasions where whistle blowers have been sacked,

with their accusations stifled and pushed under the carpet.

Far from being vilified, these caring people need to be given every encouragement and complete anonymity while a thorough investigation of their accusations is conducted by an independent body set up by respective governments.

I also believe the finances of these big charity companies should be more carefully looked into. It seems to me many of those ‘at the top’ seem to be living far too comfortably, for comfort - if you get my drift.

Well that’s my three penneth, for what it’s worth. All I know is something must be done and as quickly as possible.

After all it is the children who are suffering at the hands of these monsters, and above all they must retain priority.

Thanks for all your wonderful mail, Fair warms the ol’ boy’s cockles. Keep ‘em coming, and whatever ya do.

Always Keep the faith, Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail.com

Japanese flamenco dancer

THERE were a few red faces at the latest Cante de las Minas Festival of Flamenco in Murcia as Japan’s Junko Hagiwara came first in the female dance section.

The 48-year-old who is married to a Spaniard has been performing professionally for a number of years under the name of ‘La Yunko’ and also teaches in Sevilla.

It appears that whilst the jury was happy with its decision to name her best dancer, this didn’t go down too well with a section of the audience who were heard booing and jeering as she went to the rostrum to collect her award. Established in 1961, the Cante de las Minas Festival is considered by many as the most prestigious of the numerous flamenco festivals which take place in Spain annually and this is the first time that a foreigner has claimed the accolade, beating a number of Spanish professionals. Speaking to AFP on the telephone, she commented “When I dance, I don’t think I am a foreigner, that I am Japanese. I don’t think that. It doesn’t occur to me. I am simply on stage, I listen to the guitar, the singing and what I feel I express in my dancing.”

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

Junko Hagiwara with the other winners at the Festival.

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RECLINER CHAIRS

DRY eyes can be uncomfortable, but you can find relief without relying on eye drops.

Here are some natural remedies to consider:

Warm compresses: Applying a warm, damp cloth over your closed eyes for five-10 minutes can help to stimulate oil production in your tear glands, providing relief and moisture. Blink more often: This may seem obvious but making a conscious effort to blink frequently, especially when using screens helps to spread tears evenly across your eyes, preventing dryness.

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water ensures your

By Karan Sud Dental

Home hydration

body stays hydrated, which is crucial for maintaining healthy tear production.

Humidify your environment: Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, particularly in dry indoor environments, to keep your eyes from drying out.

Omega-3 fatty acids: Include foods rich in omega-3s, like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts, in your diet. These can improve the quality of your tears.

Book a scale & polish

“AT our dental clinic, we believe that a healthy smile is the gateway to overall

Many people are unaware that maintaining oral hygiene goes beyond just having a bright smile - it can also impact your heart health.

Regular dental cleanings, known as ‘scale and polish’, are essential in preventing periodontal disease. This gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to severe inflammation and infection. But did you know that the bacteria causing periodontal disease can also enter your bloodstream and affect your heart? Studies have shown a strong link between gum disease and cardiovascular diseases, including heart at-

tacks and strokes. By scheduling a professional cleaning at our clinic, you’re not just investing in a radiant smile, but also taking a significant step towards protecting your heart.

Our experienced dental team is dedicated to providing gentle and thorough cleanings, removing plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing

might miss. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Prioritise your health by booking a ‘scale and polish’ today. Your heart will thank you for it. Let’s work together to keep your smile bright and your heart strong! Call us now to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.”

Liquid gold locks

FOR those with dry hair, incorporating the right hair oils into your routine can make a significant difference in hydration and overall hair health.

Argan oil, often referred to as ‘liquid gold’, is known for its high vitamin E and fatty acid

content, which deeply moisturises and adds a natural shine.

Coconut oil is also known for its ability to penetrate the hair shaft and prevent protein loss, making it excellent for repairing damaged hair.

Jojoba oil closely re-

sembles the scalp’s natural sebum, making it an ideal choice for balancing oil production and maintaining moisture.

It’s lightweight and easily absorbed, preventing greasy buildup. Olive oil is a powerful conditioning agent that helps in strengthening the hair, reducing frizz, and providing a glossy finish.

For those seeking a more luxurious option, Marula oil is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, offering intense hydration and protection against environmental damage.

The best time to apply these oils is typically before bedtime. This allows the oils to penetrate and nourish the hair overnight. Simply massage a small amount into your scalp and hair, and wash it out in the morning for soft, manageable locks with restored natural lustre and vitality.

Shutterstock Janeberry

ADVERTISING FEATURE

A trusted name

SINCE 2011, we have been proudly serving the Altea community, offering a wide range of podiatry, foot surgery, and orthopaedic services for both adults and children.

Under the direction of our lead podiatrist, Silvina Garcia Barraganes, who brings over 20 years of experience to the practice, we have earned the trust of thousands of satisfied patients. Silvina is supported by a dedicated team of six highly experienced podiatrists, all committed to providing expert care and guidance. Our goal is to help our patients manage their foot ailments with the best possible solutions.

Understanding the needs of our community, especially the elderly who may have difficulty visiting the clinic, we also offer a convenient at-home podiatry service.

Our orthopaedic services cater to both adults and children, with a thorough biomechanical study of the foot to address issues such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Sever’s disease, and metatarsalgia, among others.

We perform a variety of foot surgeries,

including treatments for ingrown toenails (onychocryptosis), nail removal (retronychia), exostosis, claw toes, and bunions, using minimally invasive techniques. Every procedure is preceded by a comprehensive review and diagnosis to ensure we provide the most effective solution for each patient.

PEUSIMES has been a trusted name for 13 years, and under Silvina’s leadership, our team continues to work tirelessly, always with a smile, to improve the well-being of our patients who place their trust in us.

Calle Calitx nº7-Local 3, Altea 03590 (Health Centre Corner) Tel: 666 664 043 / 966 883 622 / peusimes@hotmail.com

STYLING long hair for men goes beyond the traditional bun, offering a range of options to suit different tastes and occasions.

One popular style is the halfup, half-down look, which combines the neatness of pulled-back hair with the casual fl ow of loose strands.

To achieve this, gather the top section of your hair and secure it with a hair tie, leaving the rest down. This style is perfect for a laid-back yet polished appearance.

For a more sophisticated look, try a slicked-back style.

Apply a small amount of wax or styling gel to damp hair and comb it back, keeping it smooth and controlled.

Lengthy looks Weight loss progress

This look works well for formal events or professional settings.

Another option is the loose waves style, which adds texture and volume. Use a texturising spray on damp hair and scrunch it with your hands, then let it air dry for a natural, beachy vibe.

WEIGHT loss plateaus are a common challenge in any fi tness journey, where despite consistent efforts, the scale refuses to budge. This happens because as you lose weight, your

body requires fewer calories to function, slowing your metabolism. Additionally, your body becomes more effi cient at performing the same exercises, burning fewer calories over time.Breaking a weight loss plateau involves making strategic changes. Firstly, reassess your caloric intake; you may need to reduce your daily calories further to match your new metabolic rate. Secondly, vary your exercise routine. Incorporate different forms of cardio and strength training to challenge your body in new ways and prevent it from adapting to a predictable routine. It’s also crucial to ensure adequate sleep and manage stress, as both can impact hormones that regulate hunger and fat storage. Lastly, consider incorporating high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to boost your metabolism and burn more calories, helping you push past the plateau and continue on your weight loss journey.

Shutterstock Kiselev Andrey Valerevich

Europe’s walkable cities

EUROPEAN cities are topping the charts as the world’s most walkable cities, according to a recent study by Insider Monkey.

From Florence to Madrid, five European cities have been recognised for their pedestrian-friendly streets, cleanliness and safety, making them ideal for both residents and visitors. Florence, Italy, takes the crown as the world’s most walkable city. With its compact historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, plus landmarks such as the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery, all within a 10-minute walk of each other. Florence’s air quality score of 44 and safety index of 60.24 ensure a comfortable and scenic stroll for visitors.

Porto, Portugal, ranks high with its cobblestone streets and coastal charm.

Key landmarks like the Dom Luís I Bridge are within a 2.2-mile (3.5 km) radius, with a walkable layout enhanced by clean air and safe streets. Hamburg, Germany, offers a mix of maritime charm and modernity, while Riga, Latvia, blends medieval history with urban convenience.

Both cities boast well-maintained streets and easy access to key attractions on foot.

INTERVIEW

Madrid, Spain’s sun-soaked capital is Spain’s most walkable city. Known for its cultural sites like the Royal Palace and Prado Museum, the city ensures a pleasant walking experience with a high safety score and clean streets.

If you’re planning your next adventure, these European cities offer the perfect combination of beauty, charm and pedestrian-friendly layouts.

Speaking EuropeanMax Zin

Max moved from Chelles in France to Valencia, after he realised that he needed “a change of scenery.”

MAX’S first two weeks living in Valencia were easier than most expats encounter, as a part of his family was already living in Spain and he knew the city well from the past.

Moving to the eastern suburbs of Paris to Valencia, Max immediately began looking for a job as a French teacher; “The only thing that’s tough here is finding a good job and a good house but that’s the thing with big cities,” he shared. To his luck, he has a wonderful grandmother who has been living in Spain for a long time and has been helping him to make sense of the Spanish bureaucracy.

Credit: Max Zin

Although he doesn’t have many acquaintances in Valencia yet, Max already loves the Spanish “way of living,” and the comforting sun “that’s always there.” He also has the advantage of being almost fluent in Spanish and has had both French and Spanish friends throughout his life.

Missing the rest of his family and friends back in France, Max, however said that he does not feel nostalgic about the “French cuisine or French culture in general,” and looks forward to exploring more of a country as vibrant and diverse as Spain.

Credit: Pixabay.

Tourists in Florence, Italy.

Max Zin.

HOME ALBIR PROPERTIES:

HOME ALBIR was born more than 10 years ago, when its creator, Elena Guifer, came to live in the area and did not find many reliable and affable agencies, eager to have direct contact with their clients.

Elena Guifer wanted to change this situation and decided to create Home Albir Properties to have a very personalised relationship with her clients and after all these years, it is still that way, although as Elena says “we cannot make all clients happy, but we always try.”

“We believe in the human and personalised connection of each client.”

Today, many of her clients have stopped being ‘clients’ to become ‘friends’, and that… is priceless. The beginnings were very difficult, but thanks to the clients, the friendly attention, that warm welcome and the great sincerity of Elena Guifer, Home Albir today has

an important place in the real estate sector. One of the reasons is maybe that Home Albir does not tolerate lies and always adjusts to what the client needs, with total transparency and putting the relationship with the client before everything else.

Money is obviously important, although not essential, because for Home Albir, closeness to the client, the fight for a job well done and a satisfied client, is the best reward, and always trying to find the best possible deal for the clients.

Home Albir is a specialist in property rentals and sales. And in the event that they do not have the property they are looking for, they do everything possible to find the property desired by the client. Elena says that “If you do not

find what you are looking for, we will help you find it. If we cannot help you, we will tell you. We are that clear with all our clients.”

The Home Albir area is Altea, Alfaz del Pi, Albir, Benidorm, La Nucía, Polop and Finestrat.

If you want to sell, to buy or to rent a property, contact them. And you will see that Home Albir Properties is a totally different agency from all the others.

News from Our Other 6 Newspapers

Costa del Sol Footballer’s gift

SOCIAL media can be a powerful tool, for good and bad. When Ismael, a 17-year-old Malaga CF fan posted on X (Twitter) his new Malaga shirt with the player Kevin Medina printed on the back, he was berated by mean-hearted strangers for not having bought an original shirt. In the shops, the official shirts go for €70, well out of a teenager’s budget. The lad had no idea he would receive such a backlash.

However, Ismael had tagged #MálagaCF and #KevinMedina in the tweet, and to the shock of his social media critics, he received a response from the football club winger saying ‘relax, man. Come talk to me here whenever you want. You can come here to La Rosaleda stadium and I will give you one of mine.’

So on Thursday, September 5, he visited the Malaga team stadium and was received by Kevin Medina and presented with a new blue and white football shirt with Medina’s name on the back.

Axarquia

Coral comeback

IN a remarkable conservation effort, the Deep CORE Project, led by Coral Soul and Coral Guardian, has successfully restored 750 coral colonies in just three years. Since 2020, this groundbreaking initiative has been breathing new life into the delicate ecosystems off Punta de la Mona, a protected marine area in La Herradura.

Deep CORE stands out as one of the Mediterranean’s pioneering participatory marine conservation projects. This unique project focuses on revitalising the reef habitats of the chandelier coral and the orange coral - two endangered species crucial to marine biodiversity. Despite the area’s status as a Natural Park since 2015, human activities and abandoned fishing gear have wreaked havoc on these underwater treasures, breaking corals and choking their chances for survival.

The project’s success is notable: over 1,000 kg of marine debris has been cleared, 1,270 locals have been educated, and collaborations with two universities are fuelling ongoing research.

Mallorca Queen Sofia in Palma

STILL enjoying her stay in Mallorca, Queen Sofia made a visit to the Mallorca Museum on Friday September 6 to view the Joaquín Sorolla exhibition.

Sponsored by the Consell de Mallorca, the exhibition which finally closed on Sunday September 8 was an unmitigated success with more than 12,000 people visiting during the time it was open.

On this occasion, the Queen Emeritus was accompanied by her sister, Irene of Greece, and her cousin, Tatiana Radziwill.

The exhibition was entitled ‘Travelling to paint. Sorolla in Mallorca’ and the Valencian artist who was born in 1863 was prolific, having reportedly created more than 2,000 paintings even though he died at the young age of just 60.

Visiting Mallorca in 1919, his work on the island consists of some of the very last views of the Mediterranean that he ever created as he fell ill in June of the following year and was unable to paint again until his death in 1923.

Costa Blanca South Celebrating culture

THOUSANDS of revellers filled the streets of Villena for the annual Moors and Christians festival, which took place over five days starting on September 4. This festival, declared a Fiesta of National Tourist Interest, is one of the most participatory of its kind, with over 12,000 people taking part.

Each year, Villena’s festival features 14 troupes who parade through the streets in colourful costumes and lively performances.

The origins of Villena’s Moors and Christians festival date back to the late 15th century when the Virgen de las Virtudes was proclaimed the patron of Villena and the protector from the plague.

Her image was placed in a shrine seven kilometres outside of the town, and the townspeople vowed to visit the shrine twice a year - in March and September - to pay homage to the Virgin.

Today, the Virgin’s image is brought into the town at the end of August to preside over the celebrations held in her honour.

Almeria Summer cinema night

MORE than €2,500 was raised during Vera’s last summer cinema night, where the entire box office is donated to Asprodalba, an association promoting people with intellectual disabilities in Almeria. However, this annual event has become more than just fundraising, evolving into a catalyst for unity, bringing together thousands of attendees over three decades to collectively share an unforgettable night of film.

Asprodalba felt the love this year, expressed by “A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us at the 29th Asprodalba Movie Night.” But the audience reciprocated the affection, stating “We will always be there supporting Asprodalba and the social work you do.” The association also gave “a special mention to Vera Cine for their support in each edition,” as they made “it possible for this event to continue to be so memorable year after year.”

This summer’s cinema nights had a fitting ending, with hundreds of people coming together to watch the inspirational animated film, Buffalo Kids.

Costa Calida

Murcia’s Forbes Stars

FORBES has spotlighted two remarkable talents from Murcia in its prestigious ‘30 Under 30’ list, celebrating young leaders across various fields. Tennis star Carlos Alcaraz and tech innovator Roberto Lifante are recognised for their exceptional achievements and impact.

At just 21, Carlos Alcaraz has already made headlines globally. The El Palmar native clinched a silver medal at the Paris Olympics and remains the reigning champion of Wimbledon and Roland Garros. Beyond his athletic achievements, Alcaraz, ranked third in the ATP, is a prominent face for luxury brands like Rolex and Louis Vuitton, and sports giants such as Nike. Roberto Lifante, 25, hails from Barinas and has made waves in the tech sector as the founder and CEO of TK Analytics Group.

Also on the list is Georgina Rodríguez, the social media influencer with over 60 million followers.

PETS

Want free pet-sitters at home to care for your pets?

LAMIA and all her pet-sitters travel to your home for free to care for your pets. They see it as a win-win, they benefit from your free accommodation and the chance to experience somewhere new in the company of your pets, and you get free pet care..

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:

At HouseSit Match we offer free pet-sitters who’ll come to you to care for your pets for free!

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.

Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.9 / 5 Excellent

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

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

Unusual claims

Harry Sinclair

THE largest retail bank in the UK recently announced the finalists for this year’s Hambone Award, a unique award that celebrates the year’s most unusual pet insurance claims.

Nationwide’s Hambone Award is presented annually to the pet that wins a public vote determining whose injuries were caused by the most unusual circumstances.

The award is named in honour of a dog who ate an entire holiday ham while stuck in a refrigerator,

“The dog was eventually found, with a licked-clean ham bone and a mild case of hypothermia” as said on the awards’ website page.

This year’s finalists include Archie, a New Jersey dog who injured his paws when he broke through a vintage plate glass door while trying to alert his family of the postman’s presence, and Bear, a Pennsylvania corgi who bit into a bottle of nail adhesive, effectively glueing his mouth shut.

It’s not all dogs though, as is the case with Joe and his playful parrot Clover,

another of the finalists this year, who had gotten her claws in a twist, with Joe saying “Somehow her feet got stuck together because her two toenails had hooked.”

Rightfully so, the winner of the competition receives the coveted bronze Hambone trophy plus prizes for being a good boy or girl.

Fortunately, all of the pets nominated for the award have made full and healthy recoveries and “their owners received insurance reimbursement for eligible expenses,” as stated on the website.

Cool canine delights

Shutterstock / Debby Lowe

WHEN the summer heat kicks in, our furry friends deserve some refreshing treats just as much as we do. Fortunately, whipping up cool, dog-friendly snacks at home is both simple and fun. A favourite option is frozen yoghurt bites - just mix plain, unsweetened yoghurt with a bit of mashed banana or peanut butter, spoon into ice cube trays, and freeze. Your dog will love these creamy delights.

Another easy treat involves slicing up dog-safe fruits like apples, blueberries, or watermelon (minus the seeds) and freezing them for a crunchy, refreshing snack. For something heartier, blend together chicken broth (ensure it’s low sodium)

with a handful of dog-friendly vegetables, pour the mixture into moulds, and freeze.

These easy-to-make treats not only cool your dog down but also keep them hydrated and happy during the warmer months. Always be sure to use dog-safe ingredients, and consult your vet if you’re unsure about any additions.

PLUMBING

SOLAR ENERGY

LEGO launches new kit

TO celebrate the 45th anniversary of the iconic Mercedes G-Class, LEGO has launched a new Technic kit, delighting both car enthusiasts and LEGO fans worldwide.

The highly detailed model consists of an impressive 2,891 pieces, capturing the essence of the legendary German offroader.This meticulously crafted set offers builders a chance to recreate the robust design and engineering of the Mercedes G-Class in stunning detail.

New car seat regulations

From its iconic boxy frame to intricate interior features, the model reflects the G-Class’s reputation for luxury, power, and durability.

adding to the realism and complexity of the build.

The Technic kit also includes functional elements like working suspension and a winch,

Designed for advanced builders, the LEGO Technic Mercedes G-Class kit promises hours of engaging construction, making it a perfect project for car enthusiasts who enjoy the challenge of piecing together a realistic replica.

This release is part of LEGO’s ongoing collaboration with major automotive brands, combining creativity with precision engineering. The kit is now available worldwide at a price of €249.99.

STARTING September 1 2024, new regulations for child car seats have taken effect across Europe, including Spain. The updated ECE R129 standard, also known as i-Size, will replace the older ECE R44/04 regulation. While existing R44/04 seats can still be used, all new car seats must now com-

ply with the ECE R129 standard.

A significant change under the ECE R129 standard is that car seats are now categorised based on the child’s height rather than weight.

This ensures a better fit as your child grows, enhancing safety during travel. Additionally, the ECE R129 standard includes mandatory side-impact testing, a crucial improvement over the previous regulation, which did not require such testing. Another key feature is the requirement for the Isofix system, making installation easier and reducing the likelihood of errors.

Although the sale of

R44/04 seats is now prohibited, there is no immediate requirement to replace seats you already own. However, the advanced safety features of ECE R129 seats, including improved head and neck protection, make upgrading a practical choice.

In Spain, compliance with these regulations is essential, as failing to do so can result in fines of up to €200 (£172). Ensuring your child’s car seat meets the ECE R129 standard is not only about safety but also about adhering to legal requirements.

For more information, visit the N332 website.

Joie R129 Iso-Fix car seat.

The new kit is now available worldwide.

Skoda Octavia - impressively practical performer

By Mark Slack ROAD TEST

I’VE commented before that not everyone loves cars, to many they’re me rely practical, a means of getting from A to B, com pleting the school run or the daily commute.

As long as it’s comfor table, economical and has enough space for all the paraphernalia that comes with daily travel tasks then it fulfils the requirements.

If that sounds like you then, except for the vRS model, the Skoda Octavia could be the one for your garage. Priced from €31,718/£26,775 and offering amazing amounts of space for luggage and rear seat passengers in particular, lots of standard equipment and a decent range of engines, it’s no wonder it has become a staple of the Czech car maker’s range.

Standard fare on the lead-in version includes

tomatic transmissions.

Diesel has become a dirty word of late but in reality not only do they emit less Co2 than petrol but particulate levels have been cleaned up dramatically over the last few years.

Given how the motoring world is moving to try and combat climate issues, if you want diesel power now is the time as less and less models offer the option.

Skoda’s 2.0-litre unit develops either 116PS with six-speed manual gears or

a healthy 150PS with DSG automatic transmission.

The benchmark 62 mph is passed in 8.5 seconds and from my experience, even

allowing for a margin of error, the fuel consumption figures are impressively good. In a busy week I covered over 600

miles and failed to exhaust the fuel tank and am confident I could have reached 700 miles on a single tank.

On the road the Octa-

compelling case from entry level to the top-of-the tree. At the very top the vRS version adds some excitement to the practicality too.

2024’s Ballon d’Or shortlist

FOR the first time in over 20 years, neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo will feature on the Ballon d’Or shortlist. Their absence from the 30-man roster signals a new chapter in world football, with emerging stars now set to shine.

The Ballon d’Or, awarded annually since 1956 by France Football, recognises the best footballer of the year based on their club and international performances. This year’s ceremony takes place on October 28 in Paris.

Among the frontrunners for 2024 is Manchester City’s Rodri, instrumental in Manchester City’s treble and Spain’s Euro 2024 victory. Joining him are familiar names like Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham - players who dominated the past season. However, surprise inclusions like Ademola Lookman and Vitinha have sparked debate.

Notable rejections include

Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala and Julian Alvarez, who played key roles for their clubs but failed to make the cut.

Spain, fresh from their Euro 2024 triumph, boasts six nominees, reflecting their resurgence in international football. Rodri himself commented, “Spanish football deserves a Ballon d’Or winner.”

This year’s award could also signal a shift towards recognising players like Rodri, whose influence on the field goes beyond goal-scoring - traditionally the metric that has dominated previous selections.

As Messi and Ronaldo step aside, the 2024 Ballon d’Or is set to be a celebration of football’s next generation.

Ballon d’Or award.