GET your pink on and join the fight in Axarquia. Rincon de la Victoria is ready to march breast cancer right out of town. On Saturday, October 19 at 10am, the streets of Rincon will be awash with pink as local residents join forces for a march of support that’s about more than just putting one foot in front of the other.
Organised by the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC), with a little help from the Rincon de la Victoria Town Hall, this isn’t just an ordinary march - it’s a full-on battle cry. Councillor Olga Cervantes is at the helm, rallying the troops. But, this isn’t just about hitting the pavement, they want every woman out there to know that getting checked early could mean the difference between life and death. It’s about kicking breast can-
cer into touch, promoting early diagnosis and access to life-saving treatments.
Fancy joining the fight? The march kicks off at Rincon de la Victoria’s
Tourist Office and heads to Sala Mare Nostrum in La Cala del Moral before circling back. For just €10, you can be part of the action, with every penny going towards the
cause. Signing up is a doddle.
Just head down to the AECC office on Calle Sierra de las Nieves on Tuesdays, or register online at www.dorsalchip.es.
FINALLY, it’s happening. The clock is ticking.
Nerja’s star attraction, the famous Balcon de Europa, is getting a well-deserved makeover.
The Balcon de Europa - Nerja’s pride and joy - is about to undergo a €85,000 facelift, and locals couldn’t be happier. Mayor Jose Alberto Armijo has announced that local firm Jimedux SLU has bagged the contract to get this iconic spot back to its former glory.
This is more than a quick touch-up, we’re talking a full-on overhaul. The restoration will fix the surrounding wall, give the whitewashed wall a lick of paint, and bring new life
to the three circular benches. They’re also tackling
the worn-out steps and they’re finally getting rid of the architectural ba-
rriers that make accessing El Salvador Church a hassle. The works are expected to take just a month and a half.
THE Junta de Andalucia has opened its chequebook and it’s Primary Care that’s hitting the jackpot, as a whopping 41 per cent of the region’s healthcare investment has been funnelled straight into frontline services. In what can only be described as a healthcare bonanza, the Andalucian government has pumped €34.8 million into the Axarquia region, and nearly half of that has gone to beefing up Primary Care - the first line of defence.
Malaga has had some serious gaps in healthcare for years - especially in Primary Care. But this new investment is one step towards making sure people can get the care they need without long delays. The best thing about this is that it’s not just a one-off cash boost. By the end of 2024, the Junta will have splashed out a whopping €330 million on healthcare in Malaga alone.
The march is a full-on cry for help.
Balcon de Europa is getting a well-deserved lift.
Open for business
SPRING storms brought absolute chaos on one of the Axarquia’s favourite hiking routes, but after months of damage, the Ruta de los Molinos is back open for business. The legendary trail, part of the ‘Great Malaga Walking Trail’ (‘Gran Senda de Malaga’), had been rendered almost unusable earlier this year, thanks to heavy downpours turning it into a muddy mess.
But now, with a €42,786 bailout from the Malaga Provincial Council, the beloved walking trail through Archez is back, stronger than ever. Council teams got to work, removing debris and strengthening the trail.
The footbridges have been reinforced, and everything’s been made safer for hikers and nature lovers to once again flock to this picturesque route.
Cristobal Ortega - the current head of Infrastructure and Sustainable Territory - said the job wasn’t just a quick fix. Hikers can now safely use
the trail without worrying about the weather catching them off guard.
Users will be glad to know that among the repairs, they’ve extended the metal footbridge by 11 metres in the northern section, adding a shiny new stretch to make sure there are no more preventable slips and falls.
The southern stretch hasn’t been overlooked either. A 23-metre barrier is now in place, ready to hold its own when those heavy rains inevitably make their return.
Discount boost for local commuters
FROM Monday, October 7, commuters on Malaga’s Cercanías train service can take advantage of the Consorcio de Transporte Metropolitano card, unlocking the same discounts and rates previously only available for buses and the metro.
on advande Metropolithe rates
In a major win for Malaga’s commuters, the Junta de Andalucia and Renfe have struck a deal to make travel smoother and cheaper.
The green card and youth card can now be used as valid train tickets across both Cercanias lines and 23 stations. That’s right, no more digging for change or fumbling with separate tickets.
Until now, travellers could only use the green Consorcio card as a glori ed top-up wallet, with
none of the discounts seen on buses or the metro.
But thanks to this new agreement, train fares are nally on the right track, giving you the same discounted rides you deserve just for being you.
The Metropolitan Transport Consortium of Malaga will fund these discounts, projected at €7.4 million over the next four years. This ensures
that Renfe’s revenue from the Cercanias network, which served over 16 million passengers last year, is not impacted. Brace yourself, money bags. With the Consorcio card now working across all 23 stations, including hotspot stops like Malaga Centro-Alameda, Malaga María Zambrano, and Fuengirola, your wallet’s about to feel the bene t.
In a major win for Mala-
Hikers start the Ruta de los Molinos in Árchez.
Credit: Shutterstock, Evan Frank
Commuters will now enjoy train discounts.
World Mental Health Day
OVER the years, mental health has gained momentum and is actively discussed. However, there is still a long way to go before it is recognised as equally important as physical health. Perhaps by then, we won’t need a special day to remind society to acknowledge and make changes to address mental health issues. Until such a time comes, that day is Thursday, October 10.
World Mental Health Day is a relatively new concept, established in 1992 as a World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) annual activity. Its purpose is to raise awareness of mental health issues on a global scale with a unified voice and galvanise action and lasting change. Perhaps more importantly, it also helps those dealing with mental health concerns feel
heard in an empathetic way and maybe even empowers them to take action of their own.
In 1994, a decision was made to incorporate a theme into each year; this year is no exception. Taking a lead from the impact of Covid on work environments, the theme is ‘It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace’.
Among the 2,000 mem-
bers who voted, spanning 116 countries, this was seen as the most urgent concern in the world today.
This is unsurprising when you consider just how many waking hours adults spend working. It is a sad reality that, globally speaking, mental health issues such as depression and anxiety are still extremely prevalent in the work environment.
A listening ear
HOW often do you ignore your feelings?
How often do you choose not to speak about how you are feeling because you are concerned about its effect on others?
Feelings are the only indicator we have by which to assess our mental well-being, and we experience them for a reason. Yet, all too often, it is seen as a weakness to seek help for our emotions.
Here in Spain, there is an organisation expressly set up to support all English speakers, irrespective of their nationality, with any negative thoughts or feelings that are having a detrimental effect on their mental well-being.
This service is offered via a FREEPHONE number, 900 525 100, which is accessible throughout mainland Spain and the Islands. Ordinarily, the phones would be manned between 10.00am and 10.00pm every day. However, at present, the service is available until midnight and Samaritans in Spain have committed to maintaining these longer hours until the end of the year. When you take the important step to call their number, you can rest assured that you will be able to speak with one of their listeners in complete confidence and without any fear of judgement. This is because their volunteers are deeply committed and undergo extensive training and mentoring sessions before they are allowed to take calls.
For further information visit www.samaritansinspain.com.
Survivor’s guilt
WHEN a loved one does the ‘unthinkable’ and takes their own life, the pain that it brings is indescribable. The natural inclination is to make yourself responsible for what happened, as ‘survivor’s guilt’ has you asking yourself some very difficult questions. Questions like, ‘What if I had seen the signs?’, ‘What if I had been there more?’ or ‘What if I had just taken that phone call?’. The list is endless, and the sad and very harsh reality is that their life wasn’t yours to save. However, knowing this and accepting it are two very different things that only come with time. While diagnosable health conditions like depression may be indicators, often the signs that we believe we ‘should have seen’ were never there to begin with. Suicide and contemplating suicide are very complex, and sometimes, there can be as little as five to 15 minutes between someone deciding to attempt it and doing it.
Be kind to yourself
WE all have bad days when things get on top of us and we feel worse than we are. When this happens, it is important to acknowledge those feelings and give yourself permission ‘to not be okay’.
This sounds simple enough, but as humans, we are all too good at beating ourselves up, especially when we feel we have ‘failed’ somehow.
However, aside from it being ‘ok to not be ok’, it should be expected from time to time. No matter how high functioning we are ordinarily, we are not robots, and this is something that we need to remind ourselves of. More than this though, this is the time to be extra kind to ourselves.
To take time for ‘us’ and do something that makes us feel good, and that can be as simple as a relaxing bath, a few minutes of meditation, a relaxing walk or even a trip to the gym.
A last resort
ACCORDING to the latest data from the World Health Organisation, more than 720,000 people die due to suicide every year, and it was the third leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds recorded in 2021. However, an even more sobering thought is that for every suicide, there are far many more suicide attempts.
There is a well-documented link between suicide and diagnosed mental health disorders. This is particularly true in the case of depression and alcohol related disorders. However, it is important to recognise that life in general can just as easily lead to a person reaching that extreme level of desperation. This can include financial problems, relationship breakdowns, illnesses and the effect of chronic or debilitating pain.
Remembering Lucy Barnes Henry
Mental health issues are still prevalent in the workplace.
GET ready Nerja. After years and years of delays and frustration, Nerja’s very own long-awaited health centre is finally becoming a reality. Locals have watched with bated breath as the foundation slab for the €9.2 million project, funded by the Minap Plan and EU Feder Funds, is finally being laid. It looks like an excellent addition to the town’s strained healthcare infrastructure.
Mayor Jose Alberto Armijo and Patricia Navarro - the Junta de Andalucia’s top official in Malagawere on-site on Friday, October 4, beaming as they inspected the progress. Mayor Armijo couldn’t hide his relief. After more than 20 years of waiting, Nerja is finally getting the top-notch health centre it deserves.
The brand spanking new health centre will be three storeys high and
span 4,520 square metres. This won’t be your run-of-the-mill local surgery, it will include 26 consultation rooms, paediatric and minor surgery facilities, a fully-kitted high-tech dentistry wing, and cutting-edge spaces for physiotherapy, radiology, and emergency care.
Nerja has been calling for this kind of facility
to meet its growing healthcare needs for years. It’s been absolutely ages since the idea was first conceived, but this centre is exactly what the town needs to cope with its booming population, according to Patricia Navarro, the Junta’s spokesperson.
Stay tuned - this is just the beginning.
Paw-some pairings
IN a groundbreaking move for Andalucia, Malaga Council are calling on the region’s golden oldies to open their hearts and homes to some furry new friends - all in the name of boosting their health and happiness.
With nearly 75,000 pensioners sitting home alone and 2,500 abandoned pets left wagging their tails with nowhere to go, this initiative is set to be a match made in heaven.
Could adopting a furry companion be the key to curing both problems?
To tackle this, Malaga’s provincial council has introduced a groundbreaking scheme in Andalucia to help senior citizens adopt pets, promoting both companionship and better health for all involved.
Helping Hands for
REGIONAL government is studying the possibility of a new Metro train line reaching out east, as far as Rincon de la Victoria.
The Regional Government of Andalucia has received proposals from six companies for the detailed technical studies for an eastern corridor route linking the city of Malaga as far east as Rincon de la Victoria.
People Looking to Bag a Furry Best Mate.
This paws-itively brilliant project offers all the guidance and support adults need to take the plunge and responsibly adopt a pet.
Malaga Veterinary College will handle the delivery of pets from shelters to their new homes, as well as all the necessary paperwork, including microchipping, vaccinations, and deworming.
Anyone over 65 in the province can take part in this initiative at any time of the year, and it’s completely free of charge.
Interested residents can call the Support Hotline on 900 923 092 or email adopta@mas cotascontralasoledad.es, providing their details, reasons for wanting to adopt, and whether they prefer a dog or a cat.
The draft proposals envisage linking the Ciudad Garden metro station with El Palo and beyond, opening up future possibilities for taking the rail line even further along the east coast of the Malaga Province. Whichever company is awarded the contract for the study will analyse the different alternative routes for three new corridors outlined in a Metropolitan Transport Plan for the Malaga Area. Specifically, and most importantly, the east corridor, which would take the metro from Atarazanas (historic Malaga centre) to El Palo in a first phase and then Rincon de la Victoria in a second phase; the north corridor, which would extend line 2 from the Hospital to Ciudad Jardín; and then finally a corridor towards the Parque Tecnológico, to the northwest of the city. While still only in its proposal stage, the concept will be to link all the routes to a central transport hub for long-distance trains, commuter trains, and buses in the centre of Malaga.
Health centre an excellent addition to the town.
RINCON DE LA VICTO -
RIA has just taken delivery of its first flying cop - a rapid deployment drone controlled by a unit of five officers.
Flying squad
Specially designed to take to the air at a moment’s notice, the flying robot will zip to the scene of remote, hard-toreach areas, quickly face and respond to emergencies, such as traffic accidents or fires, and assist in search and rescue missions. It will also be able to assist officers in traffic surveillance and accident reconstructions, as well as watching over large gatherings of people.
At the presentation of the new robocop recruit, mayor of Rincon de la Victoria, Francisco Salado, insisted that “the safety of the community and visitors is our top priority, and this new police unit is one more example of this, as have been the Viogen Unit, the Night Unit (GON), the Canine, and the Cybersecurity Units that this year have been applauded on a national scale.”
In addition, the new aircop unit will allow the Local Police to take a step further in the care and protection of the town and its environment, ensure there is no illegal dumping, illegal farming, and construction, and may even help gather evidence in cases of animal abuse.
Pet owners on alert
THE processionary caterpillar might not look dangerous, but it can land your dog in a serious spot of bother. Just a single sniff or lick can trigger serious allergic reactions, breathing troubles, and, in extreme cases, blindness. Dog owners should be on high alert. These hairy creepy crawlies may induce mild skin reactions in humans, like itchy rashes, and in some cases, if someone is allergic, they may cause anaphylaxis.
However, with dogs, the problem can be much more serious since the caterpillar’s hairs can act like poison darts that, in the worst cases, can lead to death by asphyxiation, according to pest control experts Doctor Pino.
The problem is so severe that authorities are handing out warnings, urging pet owners to stay vigilant. Vets across Spain, including in the Axarquia region, have been telling dog owners to keep their pets
on a tight lead, especially in areas where these deadly bugs have been spotted. Even the Axarquia Police Department released a public announcement through their Facebook page in 2021 warning pet owners about the danger to dogs.
Local Malaga vet Eduardo Fernandez stressed the importance of caution: “Keep your pets away from these insects. Even brief contact could result in a life or death situation.”
Killer caterpillars invading Spain.
Credit: Policía
Axarquía, Facebook.
A closer look
THE long-awaited exhibition of photography by Javier Rupérez is now open to the public, in which he takes a very close look at nature.
There has been some buzz around the opening of this exhibition in Macharaviaya, which takes an almost microscopic examination of insects and elements of nature normally imperceptible with just the naked eye.
The exhibition ‘Mikros’ presents a fascinating display of the microphotography work of Javier Rupérez, who specialises in extreme macro photography, a speciality that allows capturing tiny details of nature. Visitors to the exhibition can admire the amazing images up close, which reveal the beauty hidden in insects, plants, and other wonders of the microscopic world.
According to Rupérez, his photographs ‘reveal a world that our eyes are not able to see: insects seen as if they are our size. I strive to demonstrate that, in nature, there are living things among us
AXARQUÍA - MÁLAGA EAST
RINCON DE LA VICTORIA
that, when seen very closely, appear to be from another planet.’
The show, organised by the Gálvez Museum, the Macharaviaya Town Hall and in collaboration with the Malaga Provincial Council, is open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday, from 11am to 2pm.
It is expected that this exhibition will continue to attract numerous visitors throughout its duration, showing Macharaviaya as a benchmark for cultural tourism in the region.
The exhibition is on for the next few weeks, with no specific closure date fixed as yet. Entrance is free.
Torre del Mar’s Oktoberfest is back
TORRE DEL MAR has announced its next edition of the popular Beer Festival, ‘Oktoberfest’, set to take place on Avenida Tore Tore on October 12 and 13. This event continues to grow each year, offering live music, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere that brings together locals and visitors alike.
Get ready to raise your glasses. Torre del Mar is gearing up for another round of its ever-popular Oktoberfest, and it’s set to
be bigger and better than ever. On October 12 and 13, Avenida Tore Tore will be transformed into a beer lover’s paradise, with two days packed full of brews, tunes, and top-notch grub. Jesus Perez Atencia, the deputy mayor, said: “We are pleased to present a new edition of the Torre del Mar Beer Festival, which will take place on October 12 and 13. This annual event has become a gathering point for neighbours and tourists, celebrating great food, music,
and good vibes.”
In terms of entertainment, Atencia mentioned, “We’ll have live music, dancing, and performances for all ages, with tribute acts to El Canto del Loco and La Oreja de Van Gogh.”
If the music doesn’t get your feet tapping, the food certainly will, with hearty German dishes and Bavarian bites. Atencia added, “The event is a massive boost for the local economy.”
Is hosting the Foodtrucks Xperience with international gastronomy and live music. The culinary street food event is taking place from October 11 to 13 at Plaza Al-Andalus.
In the Plaza Al-Andalus, there will be seven mobile chefs on wheels offering a wide variety of specialities such as Argentinian empanadas, Venezuelan arepas, Mexican food, fried chicken, and juicy burgers, among other mouthwatering delights.
The gastronomic party is aimed at all audiences and tastes, as well as offering gluten-free food, in addition to dishes for vegetarians and vegans among the choices on offer.
The Foodtrucks Xperience in Rincon de la Victoria is free to enter, offering children’s areas, dining areas with chairs
Street food
and tables, and a host of activities planned for throughout the day. The opening will be on Friday, October 11 at 8pm. On Saturday and Sunday, the site opens for lunch (or a late brunch) at 1pm.
The chefs on wheels at the Foodtrucks Xperiencia Rincon de la Victoria will be: Arepita, Trick Truck, La Bohemia, Wok and Roll, La Porteña, Guaraní, and
Mr Hot Dog, all presenting arepas, pulled pork, Mexican food, wok, empanadas, barbecued meats, and hot dogs. Helping the party atmosphere along there will be live music from Malaga artists and groups, such as Joanna Lady Owl, Dr No, Cantando Bajito, Óscar Roots, Los Lolipopers, Joaquín Viera, and Los Ejecutivos.
Velez-Malaga museum brings history to life
THIS museum is a must for anyone who wants to take a stroll down local history and learn about the untold stories that shaped the region.
It’s a must-visit for any Euro Weekly News readers who are keen on discovering the rich history of Axarquia and the Costa del Sol. From Phoenician discoveries to long-lost ancient Roman relics, and even some pieces from the Islamic period. The museum’s stunning Mudejar courtyard is the perfect backdrop to the artefacts, with perfect lighting and a calm, serene atmosphere for visitors to stroll around and soak up the history.
Calle Doctor Jiménez Poey 1 29700 Velez-Malaga
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 9.00am2.00pm and 5.00pm - 8.00pm Sunday: 10.00am - 2.00pm Closed on Mondays
But, wait, that’s not all, hold onto your tweed jackets history buffs. The museum is currently displaying the original royal document from the Catholic Monarchs of Spain, where they officially gave the city its coat of arms.
Some of the most impressive finds come from the Phoenician site of Toscanos and the inland village of Cerro de la Capellania, key pieces in the puzzle of the region’s past. Although these sites were abandoned way back in the eighth century BC, they’re now back in the spotlight, with fascinating artefacts showing how people lived in ancient times.
Adam Woodward
Credit: Javier Rupérez
Image: Shutterstock/ Daniela Baumann
Do you prefer bottled water over tap water? Your
VOICE
RESEARCHERS from Weill Cornell Medicine have published a study in the scientific journal BMJ Global Health cautioning against the widespread consumption of bottled water. They believe governments, regulators, and industry leaders should do more to disclose the risks of bottled water in developed countries like the US, UK, Spain, Italy, Germany, Norway, Finland, and France, among others.
According to scientists, between 10 per cent and 78 per cent of bottled water contains contaminants such as microplastics, phthalates, and bisphenol A. These contaminants break down in the bottles, especially when stored for long periods or exposed to heat. From an environmental perspective, the experts also stress that it’s far better to drink tap water. “The reliance on bottled water comes with significant health, economic, and environmental costs, making an urgent reassessment of its widespread use necessary,” the researchers concluded.
However, according to the latest data from Statista, these warnings are not being heeded in Spain, and the bottled water market shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, it is predicted that the combined revenue from sales made in Spanish supermarkets, shops, restaurants and bars in 2024 will be a whopping €6.24 billion.
While nearly two billion people worldwide, with limited or no access to safe drinking water, rely on bottled
water, the same cannot be said for us living in Spain.
Interested in learning more, Euro Weekly News asked its readers, “Do you prefer bottled water over tap water?”
Anne Whitfield said, “Tap water here and in the UK. Both are perfectly safe for consumption! I understand why visitors prefer bottled water, though - tap water in different places has different mineral content, which can cause stomach upsets.
Others, like Brian Jones, stated that for him it’s “Tap water all the time.”
Liv Fridtjofsen shared her concerns about the quality requirements of bottled water: “I definitely prefer tap water, eg, because the quality requirements for bottled water are not strict enough.”
Stephen Cosgrove also opts for tap water but with a filter jug: “Here in Spain, we use tap water, but we use a filter jug for drinking and for tea and coffee. Socially, I drink a LOT of bottled sparkling water (to cut back, or at least dilute, the alcohol).”
Likewise, Angela Clark expressed, “Filtered in our jug, if not the kettle gets a nasty coating from the tap water. Filtered is better all round.”
However, Debbie Conti has no choice but to drink bottled water: “Bottled, but then we only have a well, which isn’t good to drink.”
However, for Sheena Hutson, it depends on which country she is in. As she said, “Tap water in England, bottled in Spain.”
INTERVIEW
Speaking EuropeanPaulo Teixeira Silva
“A chance encounter on a school trip to Benidorm changed the path of Paulo’s life forever.”
AT the age of 18, Paulo, like many other Por tuguese teenagers, visited Benidorm on an organised school trip. While there, he met a Spanish girl in a bar, and it was ‘love at first sight’. Although neither of them could speak the other’s language, they decided to converse via letter, using a dictionary to translate what they wished to say.
Fast-forward two years, and at the age of 20, Paulo found himself an expectant father, and the decision to make a life in Spain became the natural and responsible choice. He took a job as a waiter in a local restaurant even though he still spoke limited Spanish. He explai -
ned, “At that time, there were many Portuguese visitors, so the bosses ensured I was the waiter assigned to those tables.”
Of course, with a Spanish partner, he immersed himself in the language all the time, although he had no formal lessons. “I would watch football in the local bar and listen to the pronunciation of the Spanish people talking, which really helped,” he shared.
Having now lived in Spain for 23 years, Paulo is fluent in Spanish and English, a skill he learned ‘on the job’ while working for Servigroup Hotels, where he still works today.
Paulo Teixeira Silva
Credit: Paulo Teixeira Silva
IN a major development for European travellers, Eurostar will join the SkyTeam Alliance in 2025. This collaboration will allow passengers to book plane and train journeys on a single ticket, simplifying travel across Europe.
Eurostar and SkyTeam collaboration
Eurostar, the high-speed train service connecting the UK with France, Belgium and the Netherlands, is known for its convenience and efficiency. With the Channel Tunnel, Eurostar offers a quick, comfortable option for trips across Europe.
SkyTeam, one of the world’s largest airline alliances, includes airlines like Air France, Delta Air Lines and KLM. It provides a wide network of destinations and loyalty rewards for frequent flyers.
By joining forces, Eurostar and SkyTeam are making travel easier for those moving between European cities and beyond. Passengers will be able to earn loyalty points for both flights and Eurostar journeys, making the partnership beneficial for frequent travellers.
With sustainability becoming more important, this partnership highlights the push towards greener travel.
Spanish National Day
THE Spanish flag will be fl ying high on Saturday, October 12, as the country celebrates the Fiesta Nacional de España. The date marks the anniversary of Columbus arriving in the Americas in 1492 and has deve loped into a day to celebrate all things Spanish.
highlights for many will be the military flypast that follows the length of the Paseo de la Castellana in central Madrid, featuring all kinds of state-owned aircraft, including Eurofighter jets and aerial firefi -
Around Spain, similar events
Expect many shops and services normally open on a Saturday to be closed, and central streets in larger towns and cities to be cut off to traffic for public ceremonies, particularly in the morning. Public transport will no doubt be affected by alterations to timetables and changes to inner city bus routes. In central Madrid, the king and the royal family, as well as the president, will oversee a military parade, often accompanied by an invited head of state of another nation. One of the
will be taking place on Saturday morning. Towns and cities with a strong military presence, including naval ports, such as Sevilla, will see some military parades that could affect public mobility.
To many from Latin American communities, the day is better known as Día de la Hispanidad, and celebrations will be taking place in larger towns with live music, folk dance and song, as well as traditional foods from their home countries.
Madrid military parade parachutist.
Credit: Pixabay.
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Aston slowdown
ASTON MARTIN shares plunged by 28 per cent after new chief executive Adrian Hallmark announced on September 30 that the luxury carmaker would produce 1,000 fewer models this year. This sliced £378 million (€453.8 million) off the company’s value, before it recovered to £989 million (€1.19 billion).
Right lines
SPAIN’S publicly owned engineering company Ineco won a €2.7 million contract to draft plans for a TetuanTangier railway link and connecting Tangier city centre with the airport and football stadium. Both projects are included in a €35 billion scheme to upgrade Morocco’s state National Railway Company (ONCF).
Not needed
A REPORT by the Department for Business and Trade suggested that only 25 per cent of the 1.4 million businesses that received £23 billion (€27.6 billion) in grants during the Covid pandemic would have gone under without state backing. Most would probably have survived without cashflow support, the report concluded.
New centre
GRIFOLS intends to invest €360 million in building a new plant in Barcelona for its engineering department according to company sources quoted in the Spanish media.
Work will start next year as the pharmaceuticals company centralises operations currently spread across different locations, the sources said.
Going down
UKshop prices fell 0.6 per cent in September compared with 0.3 per cent in August, the British Retail Consortium said. Prices fell at their fastest since 2021. Fresh produce inflation rose as wet weather affected production and climate change impacted the cost of olive oil and sugary snacks.
STAT OF WEEK
€7 billion
due to be paid out in dividends during the last quarter of 2024 by Spanish companies including Inditex, BBVA, Sabadell, Santander and Telefonica.
Rightmove moves away
ONLINE property company REA Group, 62 per cent owned by Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp, has withdrawn its offer for Rightmove.
REA abandoned its attempt to create “a global and diversified digital property company” based in Australia and Britain after its UK counterpart turned down a fourth offer of £6.2 billion (€7.4 billion) made on September 27.
If REA wished to make a fifth bid, then it needed to make a “best and final proposal” before the 5pm deadline that same day, Rightmove had said.
Andrew Fisher, Rightmove’s chairman, said the company was confident that it would achieve “significant future value” for shareholders.
“Rightmove is an amazing business with a very strong team and a clear strategy,” he said.
SPAIN generates renewable energy but no hydrocarbons, apart from the natural gas that Heyco Energy Iberia extracts in Sotes (La Rioja).
The gas was discovered in 2010 and since the Viura project was launched in 2017, Heyco estimates that one well has extracted 500 million cubic metres of the 3 billion that the field contains.
The company acquired Union Fenosa’s 58.8 per cent stake in 2022 and recently bought the publicly owned Basque Hydrocarbons Society’s 37.7 per cent holding.
The company expects to increa-
Sacyr in Turin
SPAIN’S Sacyr and Italian construction company Fininc will create a consortium to design, finance, build, manage and maintain a Turin hospital complex.
The €500 million project signed with the Piamonte authorities that will take five years to complete includes a 1,040-bed hospital, university campus and a commercial zone with shops.
The hospital will provide healthcare for a population of around 300,000 people and incorporate three of Turin’s existing health centres.
He added that the Rightmove board was grateful to all of its shareholders who had been involved in the process and had shared
their views.
REA’s chief executive Owen Wilson said afterwards that they were “disappointed” with the “limited engagement” from Rightmove.
“That impeded our ability to make a firm offer within the timetable available. They had nothing to lose by engaging with us,” Owen maintained.
Murdoch’s son Lachlan took control of REA by buying a 44 per cent holding in the company, then described as “struggling”, for A$2 million (€1.56 million) in 2001. After the Fox film studios and cable assets were sold to Disney for $71 billion (€64.2 billion) and Lachlan emerged as his father’s probable business heir in 2019, REA is viewed as one of his principal contributions to the family fortunes.
Home-grown Rioja gas
H&M layoffs
IN 2020, the pandemic created a continuing boom in online sales that has left all fashion chains with more stores than they needed.
This has been especially problematic for H&M, which between 2010 and 2018 had around 5,000 shops as it competed with the Zara brand owned by Inditex.
H&M’s Spanish subsidiary, whose 2023 accounts have not yet been presented, recently began negotiating redundancies affecting 600 employees in Spain and the closure of 28 stores.
The group expects to close 200 stores worldwide, but the Spanish market will see most, H&M said. This is its second series of layoffs in Spain, the first of which affected 350 employees in mid-2021.
se production by 800 per cent over the next two years, extracting a daily 800,000 cubic metres of gas, generating tax revenues of €25.7 million.
The owners of vineyards and farms within a 1.5 kilometres radius will receive 1 per cent of the production value, Heyco said, while the regional government and neighbouring municipalities are entitled to 4 per cent of the Gas, Oil and Condensate tax.
CRITERIACAIXA has begun selling off some of the minority shareholdings that the La Caixa Foundation’s investment arm acquired after selling its Abertis stake.
By the end of June Criteria had divested itself of assets worth €325.6 million, of which €77.4 million corresponded to Spanish-listed businesses and €275.2 to international companies.
Watchers attributed the sales to Angel Simon, chief executive since April 2024, whose plans included reducing Criteria’s exposure to companies where it wields little influence owing to its minority stake.
Small fry Copper-bottomed deal
BT has received a £105 million (€126.1 million) upfront payment for the sale of the unneeded copper cable used in its old internet network.
As the telecommunications company launches a £15 billion (€18 billion) rollout of high speed fibre broadband to 25 million properties, it has reached agreement with a recycling company that will buy the surplus copper.
To date, BT has installed fibre broadband in 15 million premises but hopes to extend this to 25 million by late 2026 and 30 million by 2030.
Pay cut Bag it
MULBERRY turned down an £83 million (€99.7 million) takeover offer from Frasers Group owned by Mike Ashley.
Frasers which owns multiple retail brands including Sports Direct, the House of Fraser department stores, already holds a 36.8 per cent stake in Mulberry.
The luxury handbag brand said that Frasers’ offer of 130p (€1.56) a share was too low, after carefully considering the proposal and consulting majority shareholder Challice, owned by Singapore businesswoman Christina Ong.
She had no interest in the Frasers offer, Ong said, while Mulberry announced that it preferred to continue with plans to raise sufficient funds for a turnaround.
DESPITE posting record
Dyson sales and a £1 billion (€1.2 billion) profit in 2023, the dividend paid to Sir James Dyson’s family-owned company was cut by 40 per cent.
Accounts filed in Singapore, where the company is based, revealed that Dyson Holdings paid £700 million (€840.7 million) to Weybourne Holdings, which manages the founder’s investments.
This was down from the £1.2 billion (€1.4 billion) dividend paid in 2022 to Dyson who possesses an estimated fortune of £23 billion (€27.3 billion).
RUPERT MURDOCH: Family’s REA Group failed to take over UK’s Rightmove.
VIURA PROJECT: Gas production in Sotes (La Rioja).
LONDON - FTSE 100
3I Group 3.237,50 3.280,00 3.237,00 41,53K
Group 2.782,7 2.824,0 2.776,0 16,4K Airtel Africa 111,80 114,60 111,50 215,3K Anglo American 2.439,5 2.440,5 2.405,5 109,06K Antofagasta 1.963,50 1.988,23 1.952,50 16,35K Ashtead Group 5.598,0 5.666,0 5.570,0 23,85K Associated British Foods 2.315,0 2.330,0 2.315,0 28,32K
11.726,0 11.790,0 11.696,0 89,02K Auto Trader Group Plc 844,40 852,20 843,00 31,96K Aviva 473,45 477,60 472,80 274,06K
B&M European Value Retail SA 412,80 415,90 411,70 53,48K BAE Systems 1.291,00 1.307,93 1.286,50 301,94K
SPAIN’S State Industrial Holding Corporation (SEPI) will not recover the €3.256 billion used to rescue 30 companies during the pandemic until 2029. Eight of the businesses, including airlines Air Europa and Air Nostrum, have accumulated 71 per cent of outstanding debts, Sepi said.
Fine situation
THE Sellafield nuclear waste site in Cumbria must pay a £332,500 (€396,751) fine and £53,200 (€63,489) costs after pleading guilty to cybersecurity shortcomings. A Westminster magistrates court said Sellafield’s exposure for four years had threatened national security.
A tidy little sum
MORE than 670,000 young people born in the UK between September 2002 and January 2011 have never claimed their Child Trust Fund.
The average pot is worth £2,212 (€2,648)
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) announced in late September.
The Child Trust Funds were set up in 2005 and provided £250 (€299)
UNCLAIMED: 670,000 have not yet claimed their UK Child Trust Fund.
Going one better
THE BBVA bank, currently immersed in a hostile takeover of Banco Sabadell, amended its offer to shareholders.
The €12 billion bid was announced in April but soured in May when Sabadell snubbed the approach, prompting BBVA’s promise to adjust the offer to reflect dividend payments by adding cash.
After Sabadell paid an interim €0.08
per share on its 2024 results on October 1, BBVA announced an offer of one newly-issued ordinary share for every 5.0196 Sabadell ordinary shares.
As BBVA is paying its investors a €0.29 interim dividend per share on October 10, the offer has been upped to one new-issued ordinary BBVA share and €0.29 in cash for every 5.0196 ordinary Sabadell shares.
them down so your child or children benefit on turning 18,” HMRC said.
The funds are held by banks, building societies or other providers, and remain in the account until they are withdrawn or re-invested.
If vouchers were not invested within one year of issue, HM Revenue and Customs opened an account for the child. Young people can use the online tool on GOV.UK to locate their Child Trust Fund provider, for which they will need their date of birth and National Insurance number.
This is obtainable using the HMRC app to access the information.
“We want to reunite young people with their money and we’re making the process as simple as possible,” HMRC said.
Acciona action
KOREAN fund manager Igis is getting nearer to selling the Nestle headquarters in Esplugues de Llobregat (Barcelona), with Acciona looking like a potential buyer according to property sector sources. The renewable energy retailer would pay around €80 million for the complex of five office buildings that covers an area of almost 50,000 square metres, the same sources said.
Hard times
DELOITTE, one of the Big Four accounting firms, cut partners’ salaries by £48,000 (€57,263) as deals slowed, although the company’s £756 million (€901.8 million) profit for the year ending May 31 equalled last year’s. Average pay for Deloitte senior management now drops from an annual £1.06 million (€1.26 million) to £1.012 million (€1.207 million).
You’ll never be forgotten
LEAPY LEE
SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT
IT is with deep and utter sorrow that I have this week to report the passing of my previously super fit and beautiful dog Nora. For six years we have just about been inseparable. Nora/Cora a wonderful cross between Labrador and Boxer was loved by just about everyone.
Last Sunday I arose and for once didn’t find her waiting outside my bedroom door. Somewhat puzzled but not unduly worried I found her still in her bed located in the sitting room. Alarm bells began to ring when; even with help, she found difficulty in standing. After managing to get her walking and realising she was now actually staggering, I immediately decided to contact the emergency vet. After telephoning and explaining the situation to the local service I was advised to take her to the Vet hospital in Palma. Lifting her into the car (a place she would normally bound up into) I quickly drove to the hospital. After a three hour wait, she was finally
seen by one of the doctors. Although they were unable to diagnose the problems, she was injected and after giving me a number of pills I was advised to take her home and bring her back if she got any worse. She rested the remainder of the day.
I arose early on the Monday hoping to find her improved and back to her old self.
Unfortunately to my horror she was decidedly worse. She now couldn’t actually get up at all. After now having to carry her to the car, my daughter and I immediately drove her to the hospital. She was kept in for three days. Some times when we visited she could just about raise her head, but generally there was no improvement.
The doctors simply couldn’t detect what was wrong, but reported that her blood was not manufacturing oxygen or other normal necessities and, although the transfusions perked her up slightly, she soon succumbed to her weak non reactions.
On the Thursday she simply couldn’t move at all and the doctors suggested she had probably been bitten by a mosquito or tick and con-
tracted one of the lethal diseases they can carry. Seeing her in this awful condition, with only her beautiful brown eyes reacting to our presence and the doctors advising us they could do no more, my daughter and I decided enough was enough. After cuddles and fondling; overflowing with emotion, we watched as she was injected with a serum that would relieve her of suffering and take her to the fields of paradise, where she could hopefully run and play to her hearts content.
Our hearts are of course broken and the loss truly something it will take some time to accept and come to terms with. I realise others among you have experienced the same sad loss and our hearts go out to all of you. I would also like to thank those who have delivered so many condolences and tell you they truly do help so much. My family has of course been wonderful; I am truly a lucky Dad. RIP Nora. You will never be forgotten
Keep the Faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
Tourism titans
THE World Economic Forum (WEF) has published the Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024 (TTDI).
The index positions Spain as the second most competitive economy globally in the travel and tourism sector. Spain achieved an impressive index score of 5.18, only narrowly surpassed by the United States, which leads the ranking with a score of 5.24.
The TTDI 2024 evaluates 119 economies based on five essential dimensions: Enabling Environment, Travel & Tourism (T&T) Policy & Enabling Conditions, Infrastructure and Services, T&T Resources, and T&T Sustainability. This comprehensive assessment offers a detailed view of each country’s strengths and weaknesses in the tourism industry.
The United Kingdom secured the seventh spot on the list, further highlighting the competition among top global tourism destinations.
The TTDI 2024 marks the second edition of this index, evolving from the well-known Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI) series.
Since its inception in 2007, the WEF’s ranking has been an authoritative source for understanding the development and competitiveness of tourism across the globe.
Bogus Banksy bust up!
CALLING all art lovers! Spanish police have dismantled a criminal network responsible for producing and distributing counterfeit artworks attributed to the renowned British street artist Banksy, fetching thousands of pounds worldwide.
The investigation targeted four individuals accused of fraud and intellectual property violations. Detectives first became aware of the illicit trade last year, tracing the forged pieces across online platforms, auctions and antique dealers. Initial inspections led to the seizure of nine works, some fetching up to €1,500 (£1,280) each.
Two arrests were made in Zaragoza, along with two others connected to the art world.
The ring allegedly sold over 25 spray-painted pieces on cardboard, accompanied by forged certificates claiming association with Banksy’s Dismaland project - a satirical theme park exhibition in Weston-super-Mare in 2015.
The investigation exposed a workshop in Zaragoza where two individuals, described as ‘young urban art enthusiasts facing financial difficulties’, pro-
duced the counterfeit works. Banksy, famed for his provocative murals, remains an enigmatic figure. His elusive identity adds intrigue to his artworks, scattered in unexpected places and coveted by collectors worldwide.
According to an expert on the artist, Banksy’s Pest Control authentication service (established in 2008 after a series of fake prints were sold online) receives up to 700 certificate applications each month!
So, if you’re after a Banksy, make sure it’s the genuine article, not a dodgy Spanish holiday souvenir!
Nora Johnson’s 13 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Girl across the Lake’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
Spain’s Costa Azahar.
NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST. NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
Tackling the texture
LARGE pores are a common skin concern, often caused by genetics, excess oil production, or a loss of skin elasticity. People with oily skin tend to have larger pores because their sebaceous glands produce more oil, which can stretch the pores. Additionally, as we age, the skin loses
BLEACHING your hair can create stunning results, but it also requires extra care to maintain its health and shine. Bleaching strips the hair of its natural oils and moisture, leaving it more vulnerable to dryness, breakage, and split ends. Fortunately, with the right approach, you can keep your bleached hair looking vibrant and strong.
STRESS can indeed play a significant role in hair loss. When the body undergoes extreme stress, whether emotional or physical, it can trigger a condition known as telogen effluvium. This causes a larger percentage of hair follicles to enter the resting phase of the growth cycle, leading to noticeable shedding several months after the stress
Stress-induced hair loss often happens gradually, making it harder to link directly to a specific cause. Situations such as illness, major life changes, or psychologi-
Does stress cause hair loss?
cal distress can trigger this reaction, but the good news is that it’s typically temporary. Once the stress is managed, normal hair growth resumes. It’s important to note that hair loss can have various causes, including genetics and underlying medical conditions. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe hair loss, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional to explore the best treatment options and ensure there are no other underlying issues contributing to the problem.
Pore no more
collagen and firmness, making pores appear more prominent. Sun damage also contributes by weakening the surrounding skin, further enlarging pores over time.
While you can’t permanently shrink your pore
size, there are effective ways to minimise their appearance. Proper cleansing is essentialusing a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser twice daily helps remove excess oil, dirt, and debris that can clog pores, making them look big-
Beyond blonde
worsen dryness and cause further damage. When heat styling is necessary, always use a heat protectant spray to minimise harm.
Hydration is key. Use deep conditioning treatments regularly to replenish lost moisture and repair damage. Opt for sulphate-free shampoos, as they are gentler and less likely to strip further moisture from your hair. Adding a leave-in conditioner or hair oil can help seal the cuticles and protect against daily wear and tear.
Limiting heat styling is essential for bleached hair, as excessive heat can
Finally, regular trims will keep split ends at bay and ensure your hair looks its best. With consistent care, bleached hair can re main healthy, soft, and full of life.
ger. Exfoliating regularly with products containing salicylic acid or retinoids can also help by removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover, which keeps pores clear.
Using a good moisturiser ensures the skin stays hydrated and plump, reducing the appearance of pores. Lastly, applying sunscreen daily prevents further collagen breakdown, keeping pores looking less noticeable and your skin smoother.
Costa del Sol A call for help
JASMINE HARMAN, presenter of A Place in the Sun, has put out an appeal to the Costa del Sol community to help in the search for a missing family member.
Orville Boast, the beloved soft toy of Joy, the daughter of Jasmine and her husband Jon Boast, is a small, cuddly, and slightly worn doll of the little nappy wearing green bird Orville, of Keith Harris and Orville fame. In an appeal across social media platforms, Jasmine Harman has asked the local community to help recover Joy’s precious Orville. She asks whoever finds him to be very careful, as he’s a little delicate and worn out.
The family believes Orville went astray in the Miramar shopping park in Las Lagunas/Mijas. The TV presenter said her daughter Joy has had the toy for many years, and it has great sentimental value.
She has asked her more than 200,000 followers on Instagram to help the family out and to spread the word.
Costa Blanca North An environmental icon
THE majestic Puig Campana, standing at 1,410 metres, is a distinctive landmark in the province. It attracts hikers, athletes, and mountaineers from near and far. It is undeniably one of the most iconic mountains in the Valencian Community, drawing visitors from Spain and abroad.
For the first time in its history, Puig Campana is undergoing a significant transformation. The renovation work, considered to be one of the most ambitious projects undertaken by the Finestrat Town Council, is a testament to their commitment to sustainable tourism and sports activities.
Efforts are underway to clear, prune, clean, and condition the steps in specific areas that have experienced significant erosion. Plans are also in place to improve the signage, create viewpoints along the route, establish nature recreation areas, and promote high-quality tourism that will appreciate Finestrat’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Mallorca In safe hands
MALLORCA VETERINARIS MIVET MANACOR, opened the doors to its brand-new hospital on March 1 this year, and has provided expert veterinary care for hundreds of cats and dogs over the last seven months, in a continuation of the services the hospital had been providing in its much smaller premises previously. The hospital is the biggest in Mallorca, and comprises a team of highly skilled and trained vets, nurses and receptionists, dedicated to providing a quality, caring service to both pets and owners alike.
Veterinary care in Spain is very carefully governed, and in order to be considered a hospital, there must be a veterinarian onsite 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The business must have the complete equipment to be able to offer a full diagnostic and treatment service during consulting hours, as well as a minimum of three separate hospitalisation areas. It is also a requirement to have special isolation rooms for infectious cases.
Costa Blanca South Price boom
HOUSE prices in Spain have surged by 8.7 per cent year-on-year in the third quarter, with the average price per square metre reaching €2,182. While this trend is being observed nationwide, the Valencian Community - especially Alicante - has experienced the most notable increases. In the last three months, housing prices across the country have risen by 2 per cent, a new record for Spain. However, the situation in Alicante and the broader Valencian Community is becoming particularly pressing, as affordability concerns grow. Across the Valencian Community, house prices have risen by an average of 12.7 per cent in the past year, placing the region among the strongest performers nationwide.
The Valencian Community remains one of Spain’s most competitive housing markets and when it comes to provincial data, Alicante is a standout. Prices in the province have increased by 12.6 per cent year-on-year, reflecting the broader trend of rising prices across the region.
Almeria A meaningful impact
AGE SUPPORT ALMANZORA is making a meaningful impact in Albox, by providing emotional and practical support for older people. Their mission is clear: to promote the well-being of all seniors and help them enjoy a fulfilling life.
The organisation stands firm against ageism, challenging unfair treatment and ensuring that every older person has the right to make choices about their life. They believe in empowering those who may struggle to help themselves, offering vital support to help them live with dignity.
At the heart of their work are dedicated volunteers who run a charity shop, a welfare office, and a befriending service. These initiatives connect lonely seniors with companionship, breaking the silence many experience. If you know someone in need, let them know about the services available.
Age Support Almanzora is driven by values like care, expertise, and innovation, and they strive to listen to the voices of older people in the community. Your support and donations can truly change lives,
Costa Calida Red October
MURCIA is feeling the heat as it kicks off October with record-breaking temperatures. On October 2, the mercury soared to an unprecedented 35.5°C at the Guadalupe weather station, marking the highest temperature ever recorded for this month in Murcia. Previously, the hottest October day was nearly 35°C (34.9°C) on October 9, 2012.
Residents and visitors are experiencing a surprising warm spell, with the current heatwave showing no signs of relenting anytime soon. The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) forecasts that temperatures will continue to hover between 33°C and 34°C for the foreseeable future. If you thought a cooling trend was on the horizon, think again! It looks like the warm weather will persist.
As locals soak up the sun, it’s a reminder of the unusual weather patterns we’re facing. Whether you’re out enjoying the warm weather or planning to cool off indoors, this October is shaping up to be one for the record books in Murcia!
Meowgical Halloween
DRESSING your cat in a Halloween costume can be a fun way to celebrate the spooky season, but comfort and safety should always come first. When selecting a costume, opt for soft, breathable fabrics that won’t irritate your cat’s skin or restrict their movement. Avoid costumes with small parts that can be chewed or swallowed.
Popular choices include lightweight capes, themed collars, or simple headgear like bat wings or witch hats, which are less invasive than full outfits. Costumes like pumpkins, skele-
Does
tons, or even playful sharks are fun, provided they’re designed with your cat’s comfort in mind. Always supervise your cat while they’re in costume to ensure they aren’t stressed or uncomfortable.
It’s essential to make sure the costume fits properly. Anything too tight can cause discomfort, while loose outfits might pose tripping hazards. If your cat is new to costumes, introduce them gradually to ensure a positive experience and a memorable Halloween.
your pet need a dogsitter when you travel?
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Another chance
ADOPTING a senior pet offers both heartwarming rewards and practical benefits. Senior pets tend to be calmer, making them ideal for families or individuals seeking a low-maintenance companion. Most older pets are already house-trained and come with established personalities, meaning you can immediately understand their temperament. This makes the transition into your home smoother.
One of the most compassionate reasons to adopt a senior pet is that they are often overlooked in shelters, despite being just as loving as younger animals. Providing a home for an older pet gives them comfort and security in their later years, allowing them to live their golden years in peace.
In addition, adopting a senior pet often requires
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Photo: Shutterstock
ANDALUCIA WALKING FOOTBALL LEAGUE
This busy week’s action!
A.W.F.L. Over 50s / AC Benahavis 5 v 3 Mollina
From the off, both teams put on an excellent display of exceptional walking football. The home side took control when goals from Paul Rossiter and Shane McAllister put them 2-0 up. This prompted Mollina to return the pressure through goals by Paul Blackwell and Steve Webster before half time. A superb strike by Laurent Palermo put Benahavis back in front after the break but the lead was soon wiped out by Blackwell’s second for the visitors. However, Mollina eventually succumbed to goals from Jose Bermudez and a cracker from Chris Webb, giving the home side all three points.
Nerja Utd 1 v 5 Marbella Marbesula
From the first whistle, Marbella played like a well-oiled machine, giving them full control. By half
time, they were 4-0 up and continued to dominate after the break. However, Nerja produced a much more resolute performance and restricted the visitors to only one more goal, to which the home side responded with a Nick Harvey penalty, restoring some confidence for United. Scorers for Marbella were Juan Carlos Ferrer (2), Alfonso, Carlos Pino and Cristobal (pen).
Malaga WFC 7 v 0
Boca Seniors Competa
The League Champions certainly showed no mercy to Competa, who, though they tried hard, could not find a foothold in the game at all. Their first half dominance gave the
hosts a 3-0 lead with goals from Pedrin, Fran and Javi. The second half saw them turn the screw even further through Roberto, and newbie Marcello bagged a hat-trick to register an emphatic scoreline, despite dogged resistance from the visitors.
El Canadon 2 v 5 Real Calahonda (No report)
A.W.F.L. Over 60s
Sporting Benahavis 2 v 2 Nerja Utd
Although the early exchanges were fairly even, Sporting took the lead with a well-taken strike from Martin Durrant. However, before the break, Simon Cooper equalised for the visitors. Both teams attacked eagerly in the second
half and eventually the hosts went ahead through a running offence penalty, scored by Michael Verby. However, a late penalty for the same offence, scored by Tony Wells for the visitors, meant both teams had to settle for a point.
Malaga WFC 2 v 7 AC Benahavis
Up against the League Champions, and despite falling behind to a goal for Benahavis, the hosts equalised through Kevin Nelmes after a fine team move. However, the visitors turned on the pressure and made it 1-3 by half time. The second half saw Benahavis surge forward to score four more, leaving Malaga’s sole reply being a strike by Gary Seymour, not helped by a missed late penalty. AC Benahavis will take some stopping this season! Goals scored by Cooper (3), O’Grady (2), O’Hara and Stevens.
See you next week!
Dutch legend dies
THE NETHERLANDS has been blessed with a number of exceptional footballers over the past decades and sadly yet another has passed away.
According to information released by the Dutch Football Federation, the KNVB, Johan Neeskens who was attending a World Coaches project in Algeria, died on Sunday October 6, aged just 73.
On the domestic side, he played for a number of different clubs, the most famous being Ajax and Barcelona where he accumulated wins in the European Cup (three times), Copa del Rey and European Cup Winners’ Cup before playing in the USA.
Fans of TV series Ted Lasso will recall that imaginary team AFC Richmond won the Premier League title when they switched their style to that of ‘total football’ a strategy that was first introduced by the Dutch National team in the 1970s of which Neeskens was a part.
He actually won 49 caps with The Netherlands and played in the teams that were World Cup runners up in 1974 and 1978.
According to a statement by the KNVB, “With his characteristic tackles, sublime insights and iconic penalties, [he] will forever remain one of the most prominent and beloved players to ever play for our country.”
Following his retirement as a player, in 1991, he spent 21 years as a manager or assistant manager for a number of clubs as well as the Australian and Dutch national teams.
After moving away from management, this quiet family man who rarely gave interviews became increasingly more involved in working on the KNVB programme that helps smaller teams worldwide to understand the intricacies of coaching.
