FOREIGNERS now account for 18 per cent of the total population of the Costa del Sol, a statistic that is beginning to creep inland too.
Located in the heart of the Axarquia on the foothills of La Maroma, the village of Salares is the smallest in the Malaga region in terms of population, with just 192 inhabitants. Among them can be heard the accents of 20 Brits, four Belgians, two Moroccans, a Romanian, and a Dane. The tiny pueblo blanco is in the Alhama natural park.
According to the National Institute of Statistics, 164 members of the community are Spanish by birth, making the other 13 per cent all foreign. But with a drive from the coast that resembles more a circuit that should be on the World Rally Championships tour, what is the attraction of the village?
Sensational Salares
The bridge over the Salares River at the exit of the town was built by the Romans and is still in perfect condition today. From the time of the occupation of the Moors, the town’s layout
has been preserved with very few alterations.
The winding streets and whitewashed houses that comprise this quaint and remote mountain vi -
llage seem to have a draw on the foreign community who, seemingly, wanted to get away from the hustle and bustle of crowded coastal towns.
Paws for thought
VELEZ-MALAGA’S new pet adoption platform offers fully vetted animals, ready for their forever homes - adopt today!
Velez-Malaga is barking up the right tree! Amid a surge in pet abandonments, the council has unleashed a brand-new platform for adopting furry friends. With 29 dogs and 19 cats up for grabs - completely free and fully vettedit’s the purrfect time to adopt!
Environment councillor Rocío Ruiz made a pawsitive plea to locals, stressing that adoption
is the way forward under the latest animal welfare laws. The council’s site features a catalogue, where you can meet your future fur-
ever companion. Don Animal, the pet care pros, will take care of these animals until they find their new homes. So, are you ready to
make tails wag?
Head to the council’s site and adopt today.
Waiter Race
AROUND 40 waiters took to the busy streets of Nerja on Wednesday, October 9, testing their tray-balancing skills in what turned out to be a one-of-a-kind race through this stunning Malaga town. The main aim? Get to the finish line quickly, but without spilling any of those drinks they were carefully carrying.
Around 40 hospitality professionals raced in the event, from the famous Balcon de Europa at noon. Armed with trays with six glasses of various shapes and sizes, they started on a 500-metre dash, dodging pedestrians and battling to keep the liquid intact.
Event organiser Borja Ruiz explained participants were allowed to arrange the glasses, weighing around two litres in total, in any way they deemed best.
The waiters rushed through the course, nerves on edge, with every drop spilt costing them valuable time.
Axarquia • Issue No. 2050 • 17 - 23 Oct
Every drop spilt cost valuable time.
Credit: Shutterstock, Jeremy Walter. Nerja
Salares sits in the Alhama natural park.
Credit: Francisco Santiago Guirado, Facebook
Credit: Don Animal.
Warning for shoppers
THE Guardia Civil has recently sent out a major warning on social media to anyone in Axarquia or the rest of Spain expecting a parcel to be delivered after doing some online shopping.
“Have you made an online purchase recently and are waiting for it to arrive at your door? Be careful if you receive a message like this, asking you to update your address,” warned a spokesperson from the Guardia Civil, in a post shared across Spain through their official TikTok channel and other social networks.
Scammers are now targeting unsuspecting shoppers with messages in Spanish that seem legitimate but are nothing more than a crafty con. Some of the texts read: “Parcel delivery cancelled due to missing house number. Please update as soon as possible.”
Another version warns, “Your item is on hold due to an invalid house number in shipping information. Please update immediately.” The Spanish versions of these messages are as follows: “La entrega se ha suspendido porque su pedido no tiene número de casa. Actualice lo antes posible”. And; “El artículo está a la espera porque su envío no tiene número de casa. Actualice lo antes posible”.
It’s a sneaky way to get you to hand over personal details, and the Guardia Civil is urging everyone to stay alert and double-check any suspicious messages before clicking on anything
Second chance for many
IN what looks like a significant shift - the regional government has now made a bold commitment to those suffering from mental health issues and addictions. Patricia Navarro, the Andalucian Government’s delegate, revealed that their investment in mental health services represents “a second chance for thousands of people” who are battling serious conditions and dependencies.
During her visit to the MonteAlminara addiction treatment centre in Moclinejo, Navarro stressed that mental health is now a top priority for the Junta de Andalucia, following years of what some might describe as neglect.
“We’ve made it a priority by expanding infrastructure, increasing the number of trained professionals, and launching new specialised services to improve care and help prevent mental health disorders and suicide,” she said.
Navarro proudly outlined that the Andalucian Mental Health Infrastructure Plan poured over €14 million into the system
between 2023 and 2024, with a strong focus on the most vulnerable, especially children and teenagers.
The number of mental health professionals across Andalucia has gone up by more than 12 per cent in the past three years, and they’ve actually added 318 new staff members. The workforce now totals 2,878, spread across
153 health centres. Navarro also drew attention to Spain’s firstever External Advisory Council on Mental Health, with the Junta set to approve the Andalucian Strategic Plan for Mental Health and Addictions soon.
The plan will lay out the government’s roadmap for the coming years. Is this the start of a change in Andalucia?
Mental health is now a top priority.
Love, Cry, Laugh
THE CAC Velez-Malaga is now home to the brilliant comic art exhibition titled, Love, Humour, and Heartbreak ‘Amor, humor y desamor’, by none other than the hilarious and multi-talented Omar Janaan.
Opening its doors until January 12, 2025, this extraordinary exhibition features nearly 100 graphic vignettes created through a direct mural display. Janaan’s work captures the essence of love in all its dimensionsfrom the ery passion that makes our hearts race to the heart-wrenching moments when love runs dry.
This isn’t just any art show. Under the vibrant surface lies a deeper exploration of personal relationships, all presented through the lens of dark humour. Janaan’s work pokes fun at the rollercoaster of love, reminding us that having a sense of humour and trying to see
Going the extra mile
the funny side of a situation can be a life-saver even in life’s darker moments.
You can catch the exhibition from Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 2pm and 5pm to 8pm, and Sundays and
bank holidays from 10am to 2pm. Don’t miss this chance to revel in the artistry of Omar Janaan - where love, heartbreak and, - most importantly - a sense of humour, collide.
Omar Janaan’s exhibition and workshops have been hailed as two of the most enjoyable and original independent comic art initiatives on the Costa del Sol. Get involved!
Will an ETIAS be required from 2025?
YES, starting in 2025, British citizens will need to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) to
visit Spain and other Schengen Area countries for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period). ETIAS is similar to the American
US ESTA and requires an online application, along with a fee of around €7. Once approved, the authorisation will be valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
There will be a transitional period after ETIAS is introduced in mid-2025. During this time, travellers may be able to enter without an ETIAS, but it is advised to apply for one in advance to avoid any issues. This system was introduced to enhance border security and pre-screen all travellers from visa-exempt countries, including the UK, after Brexit.
As Gibraltar Treaty negotiations continue in Brussels, tensions rise as locals and travellers alike await clarity on how the new biometric checks will impact dayto-day life at the border. With the clock ticking towards the 2025 ETIAS rollout, will Spain and the UK find common ground, or are more travel headaches on the horizon?
MALAGA’S Palliative Care Unit goes the extra mile for its patients with heart-felt letters from sta to their patients and books galore.
In a very touching initiative, the Palliative Care Unit at the Malaga Regional Hospital has introduced a ‘Mobile Library’ to provide comfort and support to patients and their families. This project, along with an e ort to send condolence letters to grieving families, is making waves in Malaga.
The healthcare professionals of the Palliative Care Unit, located in the Hospital Civil, have taken an unusual but very touching approach to patient care. They have started an initiative to send heartfelt condolence letters to the families of patients who have passed away during their care. These letters serve as a tribute to the deceased, o ering solace and support to their loved ones during their toughest times.
But that’s not all. The Palliative Care Unit has also launched its ‘Mobile Library’, a delightful addition designed to lift the mood of their patients. What started as a simple idea from the unit’s sta has ourished into a community-driven project, receiving some amazing donations from patients, families, and the Malaga Provincial Library.
THE Parador de Turismo is hosting a gathering from October 16 to Saturday, October 19, with 70 creators and strategists from all over Europe to discuss the major challenges facing this mammoth $200 billion-a-year sector. Nerja is at the heart of European innovation this week as 50 industry icons converge for a forum dubbed the ‘Davos of Video Games’, to discuss the future of the industry and champion the creation of a pioneering European Academy of Video Games.
Sir Ian Livingstone, the legendary co-creator of the hit franchise Tomb Raider and the mastermind behind the beloved Fighting Fantasy book series, which laid the groundwork for modern role-playing games will be in attendance. Joining him are Rupert Loman, the pioneer behind Eurogamer; Gonzo Suárez, a heavyweight in the Spanish gaming sector and co-creator of the iconic Commandos series.
But that’s not all. The forum will also see the likes of Richard Bartle, hailed as the godfather of the Metaverse, and Simay Dinc, a pioneer in interactive cinema which merges lm and gaming. Last but not least, the gaming icon Peter Molyneux, renowned for his innovative game design, will share his wisdom.
This huge forum is supported by the EU and backed by Spain’s Ministry of Culture.
Love, Humour, and Heartbreak: Omar Janaan’s c lassic comic showcase takes Malaga by storm.
Diputación
Rincon mega-park
MARK your calendars, Rincon de la Victoria. The wait is almost over as plans are proceeding for the Parque Periurbano del Mediterraneo, touted as ‘the biggest project in Rincon’s history’. Set to kick off in January 2025, this colossal park will cost a staggering €12.7 million and span an impressive 13 hectares, roughly the size of 26 football pitches. This ambitious project isn’t just another patch of grass; it will be a veritable new set of lungs for the town.
The park promises over 1,000 trees and 30,121 shrub species, complemented by six kilometres of pathways for walking and cycling. Kids will revel in a mammoth 2,265 square metre play area, while sports enthusiasts can enjoy 8,000 square metres of athletic facilities. The brand-new mega-park will also include a stunning lake and a vast forest area spanning 76,880 square metres.
Located in Torre de Benagalbon, the park will be flanked by Colegio La Marina and the Benagalbon stream, with the first phase set to cost over €4.7 million
and the second phase escalating to just under €8 million. The plan is to ensure it’s accessible to everyone, including
Best hiking trails Solar panel ban
those with mobility challenges.
Get ready, the Parque Periurbano del Mediterraneo is on its way.
IT’S time to lace up those walking boots! The stunning Competa-Canillas de Aceituno Trail has been nominated as one of the Top Four Hiking Trails in the whole of Spain for the prestigious 2024 Best Trail Award.
This competition, run by the Spanish Federation of Mountain Sports and Climbing (FEDME), recognises the nest hiking routes across the country, and this hidden Andalucian gem that most tourists don’t know about is ready to shine.
Hikers cross stunning
rivers on majestic Roman and Arab bridges, climb up watchtowers o ering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, and wander through charming villages that pepper the landscape. There are terraced gardens in Canillas de Albaida and gorgeous oak forests before reaching Salares and the pine woods near Sedella. With rivers, woods, historic bridges, and majestic mountain scenery, there’s beauty at every turn.
Cast Your Votes
But this isn’t just about
NEW fines for those who install solar panels on their roofs in Frigiliana as the local council brings in a new ordinance to keep the pueblo blanco beautiful. In a move that goes against the grain of national governmental policy, environmentalist campaigning, and those residents seeking a lower cost of living, the Socialist council of Frigiliana, who currently hold an absolute majority, have taken the bold move to ban any new photovoltaic installations on the roofs of buildings that might upset the look of the town.
breathtaking views; it’s about YOU! Voting is open until November 30, and you can support the Competa-Canillas de Aceituno Trail through the ‘Paso a Paso FEDME’ app, available on both iOS and Android. So why not give this remarkable trail the recognition it deserves?
The Competition
Sendero de la Hoz de Alarcon in the majestic Cuenca Senda de los Riconchos in the stunning Aldea de Ebro, in Cantabria Ruta de los Menhires in Mataporquera, Cantabria.
The new rules, if not heeded, could result in fines of up to €3,000 for the owners of the property. As one of the most outstanding architectural jewels in the region’s crown, the whitewashed, plantpot-lined mountainside town has long been a ‘must’ on the list of places to visit for thousands of tourists every year. Maintaining its place in the ranking of one of the most beautiful places in Spain, every small detail, including the colour of front doors, has become a priority for local authorities.
The council says that solar devices cannot be placed, under any circumstances, on the roofs of houses in the town and can only be placed in terraced areas when they are not visible from the street. This stipulation, the council states, is intended to protect the Arabic-style roof tiles.
HIKING HEAVEN: Scenic view over Competa village in Axarquia.
Park will be the biggest project in Rincon’s history.
Uproar over fruit fraud
POLICE are investigating more than 550 people for allegedly being involved in a huge organised criminal network of tax fraud, document forgery, and money laundering. The scandal, ripe with dodgy dealings in the tropical fruit trade, is now being peeled apart by the Velez-Malaga Court in a juicy case that’s only getting bigger by the day.
The police and Guardia Civil worked together on a joint operation, arresting 82 people, including the 69-year-old owner of a leading European fruit company, and a bank branch manager from Velez-Malaga. Shockingly, none of those arrested remain in custody, with only the fruit company owner required to post bail to secure his release.
The investigation started back in 2021, when authorities raided several locations in Alhau -
rin de la Torre, Benalmadena, Benamocarra, Malaga, Rincon de la Victoria, and Velez-Malaga, uncovering fraudulent activities linked to the trade of subtropical fruits. More than 55 suspects were arrested, and authorities seized €770,585 in cash, blocked bank accounts with balances totalling €360,403, and confiscated a range of properties
and documents. Then, in 2022, police went after the ring leaders. They raided the company headquarters, arrested a further 27 people, and seized €991,855 in cash, as well as five luxury cars.
As the police dug deeper, they struck gold, seizing over €13 million in luxury motors, fancy real estate, and much more.
Over 550 under Investigation in Axarquia’s subtropical fruit trade.
Credit: Pexels, Matthias Oben
Kate to host carol service
THE Princess of Wales will host her annual Christmas carol service this December after a challenging year marked by her battle with cancer and chemotherapy. The Together at Christmas carol service, now in its fourth year, will take place at Westminster Abbey, with a broadcast set for Christmas Eve. This event has become a cherished holiday tradition, featuring musi -
cal performances and recognising community heroes.
Despite her health struggles, Catherine remains committed to her royal duties. She resumed public appearances over the summer, attending events like Wimbledon, following months of treatment. In a heartfelt statement, she expressed gratitude and a renewed sense of hope as she returns to public life.
Prince William has been by her side throughout her recovery, and while Catherine has completed chemotherapy, her path to full health will take time. Her resilience and dedication are evident as she prepares the carol service, a testament to her strength.
This year’s event will serve as a reminder of the importance of community and support, inspiring many as they face their own challenges.
Tighter border control
THE Norwegian security agency PST has highlighted the fact that the perceived threat level has risen from moderate to high, the second-highest risk level on a five-tier scale.
Although Norway is not a member of the European Union, it has joined Schengen and therefore no border checks should in theory exist for those entering or exiting to Finland or Sweden.
Added to the threat situation, there appears to have been evidence of recent attacks on Jewish or Israeli targets in neighbouring Scandinavian countries.
Last week, there were shots fired at the Israeli Embassy in Stockholm, then there was an explosion at the Israeli Embassy in Copenhagen, with Swedish authorities confirming a link between the two attacks.
The Norwegians take the possible threat of additional terrorist attacks on targeted sites very seriously and the normally unarmed Norwegian police have been instructed to carry firearms at all times during this period of high alert which is likely to last around four weeks.
“We don’t have any specific information today about any concrete terror plans in Norway,” said Inga Bejer Engh, assistant chief of PST, at a press conference called
on October 8 when news of the introduction of the special border activity was released.
According to NEWSinENGLISH.no, Benedicte Bjørnland, director of Norway’s state police, said “we will now have more visible and not so visible” measures in place around the country, including a greater presence of both uniformed and plain-clothed police and more police patrols around potential targets such as Embassies and places of worship.
Benedicte Bjørnland, director of Norway’s state police in uniform.
Credit:
Benjamin A. Ward/Stortinget
AXARQUÍA - MÁLAGA EAST
Rincon’s social cycling tour
GRAB your helmet. One of the best cycling routes along the stunning Spanish coastline leads straight to Rincon de la Victoria, where sun, sea, and adventure await. If you fancy a cheeky coffee or a delicious lunch in the charming fishing neighbourhoods of Pedregalejo and El Palo, this route is the ultimate way to enjoy a leisurely day out.
As you pedal into Rincon de la Victoria, brace yourself for one of the highlights of the trip: the Treasure Cave (‘La Cueva del Tesoro’.) It’s not just any old cave. La Cueva del Tesoro is the only archaeologically significant underwater cave in Europe open to the public, and one of only three in the entire world.
Cycling from Malaga Bike Tours to the cave is about 13 km. After cruising past La Cala del Moral, you’ll tackle a steep hill that goes up to 100 metres in altitude.
After refuelling, hop back on your bike and head another 4 km to Casa Fuerte
Bezmiliana, a small fort dating back to 1766. Built under the orders of King Carlos III of Spain to fend off pirates, it now serves as a cultural exhibition centre space - entrance is free!
Finally, don’t miss the Villa Antiopa, which opened its doors in December 2022. Villa Antiopa showcases the remains of a grand villa built in the late third century AD. Don’t be fooled by the modern exterior - inside, you’ll find ancient foundations, stunning mosaics, and interactive exhibits that take you back in time.
Interactive Treasure Hunt Nerja
READY for an escapade that’s more than just sun and sangria? Say goodbye to boring maps and stuffy guides; this is a quest for the curious at heart. Brace yourself for a pulse-pounding adventure in the stunning streets of Nerja.
Unravel Secrets with a Twist
This Whodunnit Murder Mystery Treasure Hunt will have you unlocking the hidden gems of Nerja’s Old Town while you have a bit of fun. This isn’t your average sightseeing tour. Here, each clue you solve leads you closer to the Nerja’s best-kept secrets. Just download the app, head to the starting point, and let the adventure start.
Whether you’re a lone wolf or part of a merry band of explorers, you set the pace of your Nerja treasure hunt.
Puzzles Galore
Put your noggin to the test as you tackle location-based puzzles. What You Need to Know
• Free Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Book Now, Pay Later: Keep your travel plans flexible.
• Duration: This adventure is designed to be completed in just one day, but you can explore at your own pace.
Experience Highlights
• Follow clues and solve thrilling missions right on your phone.
• Explore all the main attractions in Nerja at your own pace.
You can find this social trip on www.ge tyourguide.com
JOIN the Storytelling Party (‘La Fiesta de Los Cuentos’) at the Carmen Theatre (‘Teatro del Carmen’).
Location:
Carmen Theatre (Teatro del Carmen.)
Date and Time:
Sunday, October 20, 2024 at midday (12.00).
About the Show:
‘The Storytelling Party’ in Velez-Malaga, includes fun sing-alongs and stories in
Spanish for kids of all ages.
This show is a tribute to childhood stories and wonder.
Take the kids or grandkids and practise Spanish as a family.
Advance tickets:
€10 / On the door: €12.
Tickets available at www.lafiestadelos cuentos.com
For food lovers who would like to follow up with a Michelin Guide restaurant, check out some great local eateries in Velez and Nerja on euroweeklynews.com.
GET ready to rev your engines, classic vehicle enthusiasts. The Second Classic Vehicle Gathering in Totalan is just around the corner, on October 19.
This will be a special event open to all classic car and bike lovers in the area. Gleaming chrome and vibrant paintwork will catch the sunlight - weather permitting - while the thunder of classic engines fills the air with nostalgia.
It’s an opportunity to come together and connect over a shared passion for classic and retro vehicles. A celebration of history and craftsmanship that you
won’t want to miss!
Attention classic vehicle enthusiasts. Don’t miss the Second Classic Vehicle Gathering in Totalan. Come and enjoy a unique display of vehicles with over 30 years of history. Swap stories, and forge new friendships while admiring classic craftsmanship at its finest.
The big date is October 19 in Totalan in Axarquia.
Shutterstock, Sandra Alkado
Credit: Pexels, Craig Adderley
Classic Car and Bike Lovers in Axarquia, Mark October 19 in Your Calendar.
Would you go in a driverless taxi? Your
ELON MUSK, CEO of Tesla, has been showing us what the future of transportation may look like with the unveiling of his long-awaited driverless robotaxi or Cybercab, which is powered by, yes, you’ve guessed it, Artificial Intelligence. The futuristic-looking vehicle was presented at a glitzy Tesla launch in a Hollywood studio on October 10.
This innovative vehicle is set to revolutionise the simple taxi service. Passengers will be able to hail a cab without a driver, steering wheel, or pedals. Musk believes that this new taxi era will be of great benefit to taxi owners, who can happily sleep or work while their driverless robotaxi continues to collect fares for extra profits.
Of course, this is not just about helping the taxi owners make a better living. Tesla will increase its revenue by taking a share of the taxi owners’ profits. On the brink of its launch, investors are already speculating that Tesla’s AI Cybercab could see the company’s value rise sharply, with estimates of an increase from its current value of $750 billion (€686 billion) to well over $4.5 trillion (€4.1 trillion).
Therefore, Elon Musk has a lot riding (excuse the pun) on this latest new product development. However, he still faces opposition due to safety concerns and has yet to secure all of the required regu -
latory approvals. This is a significant hurdle for Tesla to overcome, not just from a legal standpoint but also in gaining the trust of the taxi owners themselves and, more importantly, the general public.
Interested in knowing what Euro Weekly Readers thought, we asked, “Would you go in a driverless taxi?”
Jeremy Newman said, “I don’t see it as a menu choice, nice chatty driver or not. I reckon future travel options will be driven by the provider, cost, and, for women, safety. And by that, I don’t mean road safety.”
Others, like Stella Scott, were a firm ‘no’; she stated, “Absolutely not! What if something went wrong? And don’t tell me it won’t.”
James Jones was a little more open and shared, “I’m torn about driverless taxis. On the one hand, the technology sounds exciting, but on the other, I wonder how reliable they’d be in tricky traffic situations.”
Colin Carter was even more positive still and said, “If the technology is there, why not?”
Liz Shaw was definitely against them. “Not a chance in hell. They cannot react quickly enough to avoid idiot drivers. It’s a dumb idea.”
Eivissa Lynn is particularly concerned about the lack of control, stating: “No, I won’t even go on a horse as I can’t control it.”
THE NEW TESLA CYBERCAB UNVEILED BY ELON MUSK.
Christmas Markets
IF you are thinking of combining an early or late Christmas vacation within Europe perhaps concentrate on one or more of the cities that host spectacular Christ-
mas Markets. There is a whole host to choose from including a number in Spain and most EU member states, but the following have been nominated as some of
• Amsterdam November 15 to January 5, 2025
• Berlin (Gendarmenmarkt) November 25 to December 31
• Brussels November 29 to January 5, 2025
• Budapest November 17 to December 31
• Cologne November 18 to December 23
• Copenhagen (Tivoli) November 17 to January 2, 2025
• Edinburgh November 17 to January 5, 2025.
• Gothenburg November 16 to December 31
• Helsinki November 29 to December 22
• Prague November 30 to January 6, 2025
• Rome December 8 to January 6, 2025
• Strasbourg November 22 to December 30
• Vienna November 16 to December 24
EES postponed
ENTRY/EXIT SYSTEM
(EES) has been delayed once more. The European Union’s automated registry for short-stay travellers was expected to come into force on November 10.
“November 10 is no longer on the table,” Ylva Johansson, the European Commissioner for Home Affairs, said on Thursday, October 11. France, Germany, and the Netherlands hold reservations over their preparedness to implement it before Christmas.
The plan was to have brought the new biometric system in earlier this year, but France wanted it postponed so as not to interrupt the influx of sports fans for the Olympics and now Christmas shoppers.
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ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING IS IN ENGLISH
According to easyJet CEO Johan Lundgren, the problem of bringing in EES too soon would potentially have caused delays for British tourists visiting the EU.
In a ‘worst-case scenario’, he said, passengers would be held on landed planes at the destination airport until their finger prints could be verified.
Commissioner Johannson spoke of a new concept being on the table for bringing the system in little by little, but this would depend on legal issues yet to be discussed at parliament level.
The EES is a comprehensive reform of identity checks for non-EU citizens that dates back to 2016 and has been repeatedly delayed since. The purpose is to modernise checks at the EU’s external borders and replace the traditional physical stamping of passports.
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FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Oil up
BP and Shell added £14 billion (€16.7 billion) to their combined market value as oil prices rose and their shares shot up when crude prices soared by 13 per cent after Iran fired missiles on Israel. Oil trading at below $70 ($64) a barrel before the October 7 attack had risen to $79 (€72.2) by the following day.
Hacked about
TENDAM, which owns the Cortefiel and Springfield labels, warned that hackers possibly accessed their loyalty-card holders’ details during a cyberattack on September 5. Although the attack would have revealed names, addresses, ID and phone numbers, no credit card numbers or passwords were compromised.
New start
NET-A-PORTER, the fashion website founded by Natalie Massenet which merged with Italian firm Yoox in 2015 and is now owned by Swiss company Richemont, has been sold. It was bought by German company Mytheresa although Richemont will receive a 33 per cent holding in Mytheresa instead of cash.
Record year
SPAIN’S tourism sector expects a 5.2 per cent increase in sales during the last quarter of 2024, while Exceltur, a group composed of the chairmen of 30 leading tourist companies, predicted revenues of €200 billion for the year. This will account for 13.4 per cent of Spain’s gross domestic product, Exceltur pointed out.
Pay up
THE Water Services Regulation Authority (Ofwat) ordered water companies in England and Wales to return £157.6 million to customers to compensate for their poor performance. Rebates will be calculated in December and the money deducted from bills sent to households and businesses in 2025-2026.
STAT OF WEEK
€2.29 trillion
was the total financial wealth of Spanish households and non-profit institutions by the end of June 2024, 7.9 per cent up on 2023, the Bank of Spain said.
Kankiwala’s job done
THE John Lewis Partnership will no longer have a chief executive after March 2025.
Nish Kankiwala, appointed the company’s first-ever chief executive in 2023, will not be replaced after his two-year contract comes to an end.
Already a non-executive director, he was assigned the task of reviving the faltering performance of the John Lewis stores and Waitrose supermarkets.
Kankiwala’s turnaround plan brought a return to a pre-tax profit of £56 million (€66.8 million) in 2023, a £290 million (€346.1m) year-on-year improvement.
In September this year, he announced that the company expected profits of £400 million (€477.4 million) by January 2028.
Jason Tarry, former chief executive at Tesco and the partnership’s
EUROPASTRY, which produces frozen bread and cakes, cancelled its stock market debut on October 7, two days before it was due to go public.
“The company, and shareholders preparing to sell, withdrew the offer owing to the international geopolitical situation,” Europastry explained in a statement to Spain’s National Securities Market Commission (CNMV).
The Catalonia-based company, present in 80 countries and owner of 27 plants in Europe and the US, planned to sell shares at between €15.85 and €18.75, giving the com-
chairman since September this year, now assumes all executive responsibilities. Meanwhile, Kankiwala remains
in an advisory non-executive position.
This answered the unasked question of how the two men would manage the company following the departure of former chair, Dame Sharon White, six months before her contract ended in March 2025.
Her arrival coincided with the pandemic, she went on to close stores and wanted 40 per cent of the partnership’s profits to originate outside retail by 2030.
Employees and partners in the company missed out on their annual bonus three years out of the past four and White briefly considered selling a stake in the company for £2 billion (€2.39 billion).
Asked recently if she planned to return to the Civil Service, Dame Sharon replied that this was “very unlikely.”
No float for Europastry
EUROPASTRY: Specialises in frozen bakery.
Getting closer Openbank opens in the US
OPENBANK, Santander’s online subsidiary which now operates in the US, is offering a savings account that pays 5.25 per cent interest.
Opening a savings account requires a minimum deposit of $500 (€457), although these high-interest accounts are not available for customers with deposit accounts with Santander Bank in the US. Although the return is currently very high, the bank said it reserves the right to reduce it at any time.
LIDL is beginning to close the gap separating it from Mercadona and Carrefour, Kantar Worldpanel figures showed.
The German supermarket chain finished its 2023-2024 fiscal year ending on February 28 with record sales of €6.57 billion, 8 per cent more than in 2022-2023. It now has a 6.4 per cent market share, an increase of three-10ths of a percentage point on 12 months ago.
Valencia-based Mercadona remains in first place with a 26.5 per cent market share, although it has lost half a percentage point since October 2023. Carrefour’s share rose by only one-10th to 9.6 per cent, despite acquiring 46 Supercor stores from El Corte Ingles in October 2023.
CHANNEL 4 posted a £52 million (€61.12 million deficit) for 2023 but the publicly-owned broadcaster said that it would not ask for government assistance.
The annual report published on October 7 stated that ambitious plans which had been announced earlier in the year were challenged by a combination of inflation and high interest rates. These had affected “business confidence and investment in television advertising.”
Expenditure over the year included £663 (€791.8) million invested in content and £520 (€621) million spent on original content.
Clocking
LLOYD’S of London is checking employees’ swipe cards as they enter its City headquarters.
pany a market value of €1.570 billion.
Europastry backed off at the last minute owing to low demand, even though Criteria Caixa had committed to acquiring 5 per cent of the shares.
The company had planned to sell new shares worth a total of €210 million as well as €300 million in existing shares, most of them owned by the MCH private equity investment company which wanted to exit Europastry.
CAF trams for Italy
TRAM, train and bus builder CAF, based in Beasain (Guipuzcoa), has been awarded contracts worth €200 million to supply trams for Rome and Bologna.
Rome’s public transport authority, ATAC, increased an earlier order for 40 trams by a further 20. All will be equipped with CAF’s Onboard Energy Storage System (OESS) eliminating the need for overhead cables.
Bologna City Hall’s contract for 33 OESS trams includes the option to increase this to 60 or possibly 70 units in future.
The CAF contacts include maintaining Rome’s trams for five years and those in Bologna for four years, plus supplying spare parts.
This enables managers to track how often and when they come in to work, Lloyd’s chief executive John Neal told the Telegraph
The data was being used “constructively and thoughtfully” he stressed.
“We’re not using it from a discipline point of view,” Neal added.
Nevertheless, many other companies are now trying to address the problem, where employees take a long weekend by avoiding the office on a Monday or Friday.
THE Barclay family, the Daily Telegraph and Sunday Telegraph’s former owners, are considering a £2.5 billion (€3 billion) sale of their online retail business, Very Group.
Sources quoted by Sky News revealed that the Very Group board, chaired by former Chancellor, Nadhim Zahawi, has engaged Barclays, JP Morgan and Morgan Stanley to handle a full or partial auction.
Insiders also revealed that refinancing the business, whose lenders include Carlyle investment firm and IMI, was another option under consideration.
NISH KANKIWALA: Remains at John Lewis in a non-executive position.
3I Group 3.284,50 3.286,00 3.252,00 46,77K Admiral Group 2.743,0 2.745,4 2.727,0 18K
Airtel Africa 113,50 113,60 112,70 89K Anglo American 2.315,0 2.319,5 2.292,5 95,72K Antofagasta 1.913,00 1.924,50 1.903,00 35,57K Ashtead Group 5.716,0 5.724,0 5.690,0 10,85K Associated British Foods 2.351,0 2.354,0 2.333,0 38,81K
11.873,4 11.904,0 11.790,0 65,76K
Trader Group Plc 871,60 872,00 866,80 34,93K Aviva 480,20 481,50 477,50 277,3K B&M European Value Retail SA 408,30 409,00 406,52 117,04K BAE Systems 1.283,00 1.288,51 1.268,50 216,84K
BP 409,05 409,50 405,35 2,98M British American Tobacco 2.692,0 2.693,0 2.678,0 154,33K BT Group 144,87 145,10 143,30 1,32M
3.532,0 3.546,0 3.496,0 62,37K
123,55 123,70 122,50 1,86M
2.776,0 2.748,0 11,36K
5.057,5 5.065,0 5.035,0 5,33K
2.557,0
EXTRA
Offer accepted
THE Spanish government gave unconditional authorisation to a takeover bid from Italian company Esseco for Valencia-based chemicals company, Ercros, on October 8. The offer of €3.745 per share, down from an earlier €3.84, gives the company a value of more than €300 million.
Impulse buy
THE Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) has paid an undisclosed sum to buy its latest high-profile British acquisition, a 40 per cent holding in iconic but loss-making Selfridges. The stake was sold by the Austrian property company, Signa Group.
Rio Tinto branches out
RIO TINTO, the London-headquartered British-Australian mining company, announced that it is paying $6.7 billion (€5.47 billion) for Arcadium Lithium.
The transaction will be an all-cash deal of $5.85 (€5.33) per share, a 90 per cent premium on the US company’s closing price of $3.08 (€2.81) on October 4.
According to London Stock Exchange (LSEG) figures, Arcadium Lithium at present has a market value of $4.56 billion (€4.16 bi-
Onto a good thing
SPAIN’S Fund for the Orderly Restructuring of Banks (FROB) has delayed selling its 17.9 per cent Caixabank stake.
This holding has paid a €335 million dividend, FROB’s first since it was created in 2009 to increase the solvency of Spain’s banks during the financial crisis.
By August 2024, the state’s Caixabank holding was worth €7.1 billion, 50 per cent up on January 2024 and 260
per cent above its €1.96 billion value prior to the merger between bailed-out Bankia and Caixabank announced in 2020.
“Analysts recommend that investors either maintain or even raise exposure, and is one of the reasons why FROB has preferred not to undertake sales,” FROB’s president Alvaro Lopez Barcelo explained.
llion), and its shares soared by 30 per cent on October 9.
At the same time, Rio Tinto’s shares dropped by 0.5 per cent on October 9, having lost 5 per cent in the preceding days.
If the deal goes through this would make Rio Tinto, the world’s second-largest mining company, one of the leading suppliers of the lithium needed for electric vehicle (EV) batteries.
The company, which produces more iron ore than any other mining group, now looks to become a processor of the raw materials essential for the energy transition.
Despite Chinese over-production and a slowdown in EV sales, Rio Tinto is betting on the lithium market’s long-term future with an acquisition that gives the company access to deposits, mines and processing facilities in Australia, Canada, the US and Argentina.
Shein boom
THE UK arm of fast-fashion retailer Shein, founded in China, saw sales rise by approximately 40 per cent to £1.5 billion (€1.8) billion in 2023. The company, currently considering a £50 billion (€59.9 billion) London float, doubled its pre-tax profits to £24.4 million (€29.2 million) and paid £5.7 million (€6.8 million) in income tax.
Energy giant
FOR the first time in four years, Iberdrola has overtaken Banco Santander to become the Spanish stock exchange’s most-traded company in daily volume, according to Bloomberg. By October this year, the power company had achieved a daily average of €136.3 million, compared with Santander’s average of €130.8 million, and ahead of BBVA in third place with €115.4 million.
Jakob Stausholm: Chief executive of Rio Tinto mining giant.
I got the timing wrong
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS
THINK IT
IN a past life, when this ol’ boy was riding the crest, I would often enjoy showing guests around my brand new Berkshire home.
Many famous folk came to visit in those far off heady ‘60s’ and on one occasion I was entertaining an extremely successful pop group member and his new fiancée. He was obviously besotted with his partner, a beautiful, ambitious and well-travelled young lady who, although relatively unknown at the time, in the next few years would become one of biggest stars on the planet.
The pop musician, a lovely lad who hailed from a small town in the north of England, had shot to stardom almost ‘overnight’ and, although quite charming, was not at all street wise and still somewhat naïve in the ways of the world.
During the ‘tour’ I showed them one of the somewhat lavish ensuite bathrooms. Peering around his eyes alighted on the toilet bowl. ‘Ee Leapy’ he exclaimed. ‘What’s all that blue stuff in
the water’? How I replied to this innocent and innocuous enquiry is not important. What was important was the look of utter disdain that flitted very briefly across the features of his fiancée. Witnessing her reaction I realised that their romance was doomed.
Compatibility is at the very core of a loving relationship and although this incident was not of great consequence in itself, it was extremely significant if it actually mirrored the rest of their co-existence. Sure enough, a short while later the affair was over.
The lady abandoned her broken hearted ‘stepping stone’ and went on to almost legendary stardom. And you know something, I experienced exactly the same misgiving when, in the early days of their matrimony, I heard Prince Harry enthusiastically inform the head of Walt Disney that his wife could do ‘voice overs.’ Voice overs in the acting profession are about one step up from a ‘walk on’. Although it’s possible to earn a respectable income from this branch of the entertainment industry, participants don’t exactly ever find themselves on the red carpet! You certainly don’t show your utter naivety, however well meant, by
publicly informing one of the biggest tycoons of the film industry that your (TV star!) wife does voice overs! I can imagine the grimace of horrified embarrassment on Meghan’s face from here! To me this conveyed exactly the same message as did the bathroom incident I witnessed all those years ago - incompatibility.
And the end result will be exactly the same. Mark my words, in the not too distant future this self-centred woman will be ready to move on from her ‘royal position’ probably with some film mogul billionaire in tow. The signs are already beginning to show.
As love’s young dream begins to fade and their incompatibilities begin to tear them apart, this pathetically naïve young man will eventually become so fed up and disillusioned he will either turn to drink, have a nervous breakdown or come running back to the family! I gave it three years. I’m convinced the only thing I got wrong was the timing.
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.
City of the Year
BERLIN, the capital of Germany, has been awarded the prestigious title of ‘City of the Year’ at the 2024 Food and Travel Awards held in London. This accolade highlights Berlin’s remarkable cultural and culinary diversity, positioning it among the top cities in Europe.
Burkhard Kieker, CEO of visitBerlin, expressed his excitement: “Being named ‘City of the Year’ by the world-renowned gastronomic publication ‘Food and Travel’ is a great honour. We’re thrilled that the magazine’s readers appreciate Berlin’s vibrant and innovative scene. This recognition proves that culinary experiences are now a key reason for people to visit our city.”
For 25 years, Food and Travel, a bimonthly magazine edited by Gregor Rankin, has earned international acclaim. Each issue offers readers a new culinary adventure, and once a year, readers cast their votes to choose the top restaurants, chefs, hotels, travel destinations, and more.
A total of 23 categories celebrate excellence across the food, wine, and travel industries.
Berlin’s global recognition continues to grow. Recently, Time Out ranked Berlin alongside New York and Cape Town as one of the top three travel destinations worldwide.
INTERVIEW
Speaking EuropeanFilip Bovin
Arguably, Filip Bovin who moved from Finland to Spain prior to the pandemic should be classed as an early Digital Nomad.
“LIKE many of my compa triots, I moved to Spain with my family because of the weather and the fact that I was looking to move into a friendly, family orientated society.
“When the pandemic hit, it was very worrying as a I had a wife and son to support, so discovered that the only way to do this was to take to the internet and I’m pleased to say it has worked very well.”
Credit: Filip Bovin
Finnish digital specialist Filip Bovin.
Currently living in Torrox (Axarquia) Filip runs a number of digital companies, the fastest growing being NeduAI and he conducts business throughout the world employing staff as each project requires.
Another of his companies Tutors concentrates on Finnish students and each year he brings a number over to Spain as part of an ongoing Erasmus programme.
Having lived in small Spanish towns he compares the lifestyle to that in Finland and
sees some major differences.
“In Finland there is far more State support for young people and they are encouraged to leave home and become independent at an early age, whilst in Spain, it certainly isn’t the same and with lower salaries generally, young people often simply can’t afford to leave home and stay with family into their 30s.
“Both have positives and negatives and sometimes in rural Spain, it seems it’s more who you know than what you know that counts.”
Filip works hard, has joined a number of Spanish and International groups and in what little spare time he has, enjoys climbing and joint gym activities.
He can get by in Spanish, but in part, that is because he is not scared or embarrassed to attempt to communicate even if it’s not always perfect.
Berlin has been awarded the prestigious title.
Beauty Advent Calendars 2024
AS the holiday season approa ches, beauty advent calendars are here to brighten up the countdown to Christmas. With a growing range of options each year, 2024 offers some fabulous choices. Here’s a quick review of the top picks for this season, as shared by The House Hairdressing.
Cult Beauty - €275, worth €1,100
One of the best-value calendars of the season, Cult Beauty offers 40 pro ducts, including 19 full-size items. Highlights include Paula’s Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treat ment and Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream. Plus, three lucky buyers will find a €1,000 voucher inside.
cara. While Charlotte Tilbury fans will love the offering, the value is slightly lower than other calendars at this price point.
contains one full-size product, the quality makes it a great pick for fans of high-end skincare.
Look Fantastic - €120, worth €650
With 27 products, including 13 full-size items, this calendar offers incredible value.
Standouts include Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream, Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Palette, and Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum.
Revolution - €45, worth £97
A budget-friendly option perfect for make-up lovers starting out, Revolution’s calendar contains 24 products, including lip glosses, brow gels, and mini palettes. Affordable and fun, it’s a great option for teens or anyone new to beauty.
Unlocking the moisture
LOW porosity hair refers to hair that has tightly packed cuticles, making it difficult for moisture and products to penetrate. This type of hair tends to repel water rather than absorb it, which can result in dryness and product build-up. People with low porosity hair might notice that products sit on top of their strands rather than being absorbed, causing a greasy or weighed-down feeling.
Charlotte Tilbury - €250, worth €296
This year’s ‘Charlotte’s Beauty Treasure Chest of Love’ comes in a reusable heart-shaped box with 12 luxurious products, including Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes! mas-
Elemis - €250, worth €682
Skincare lovers will enjoy the Elemis calendar, packed with luxurious items like Pro-Collagen Marine Cream and Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads. While it only
Feel your colour
THE aura beauty trend is all about creating a make-up look that mimics the colours and energy of an individual’s aura, the invisible energy field believed to surround every person.
This trend embraces soft, glowing tones and ethereal shades that reflect the wearer’s personality, mood, or vibe. It often involves using gradient eyeshadows, luminous highlighters, and dewy skin finishes to capture a radiant, otherworldly appearance.
Originating from spiritual practices like aura readings, this trend gained traction in beauty circles as people began to combine self-expression with colour theory and energy healing.
By selecting shades that resonate with your mood or desired vibe, you can create a harmonious, personali-
With these options, there’s something for everyone this advent season. Be sure to order quickly, as these calendars tend to sell out fast!
*Prices can vary by retailer and country*
sed look. Colours like soft purples, pinks, and glowing pastels are popular for aura-inspired looks.
The benefits of the aura beauty trend include a focus on inner beauty and self-expression. It encourages wearers to tap into their own energy and use make-up as a tool for enhancing positivity, creating a calming, radiant appearance that promotes both inner and outer beauty.
To care for low porosity hair, focus on using lightweight, water-based products that won’t just sit on the hair’s surface. Clarifying shampoos can help remove product build-up, allowing moisture to reach the hair more effectively. Heat can also aid in opening the cuticles, so consider using a steamer or applying a warm towel after applying deep conditioners. Leave-in conditioners that contain humectants like glycerin or honey are ideal, as they help attract moisture to the hair. With regular clarifying, proper moisturising techniques, and the occasional use of heat, low porosity hair can stay healthy and hydrated.
Edible garden gem
PURSLANE (Portulaca oleracea) is a nutrient-rich, leafy plant often considered a weed but is edible and highly beneficial. It has succulent leaves and stems, with a slightly tangy, lemony flavour. This plant is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, and E, as well as essential minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium.
One of purslane’s main benefits is its high omega-3 content, which supports heart health and reduces inflammation. Its antioxidants help protect against cellular damage, while its fibre aids digestion. Purslane also has low calories, making it a great addition to healthy diets.
Purslane can grow in a variety of environments, from gardens to cracks in pavements. It’s a hardy plant that thrives in warm climates, but it can adapt
to many conditions, making it easy to cultivate.
However, there are some disadvantages. Purslane contains oxalates, which can contribute to kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals. It’s also important to ensure you’re harvesting it from areas free of pesticides or pollution.
Despite these minor concerns, purslane is a versatile and nutritious plant worth exploring.
Credit: Charlotte Tilbury.
• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
Costa del Sol Train to Sevilla
IT should have been done by 2021, but now the new direct train line from Malaga to Sevilla will be ready in 2025. The work to connect the two biggest Andalucian cities in just 90 minutes will be up and running soon, according to the minister for transport, Óscar Puente.
Previously, the best option for a train to Sevilla was changing at Cordoba; in 2025, the option of travelling direct will finally become a reality thanks to the new Almodovar viaduct.
Politics, changes in government, economic and sanitary crises - all of which contributed to the failure to complete the so-called Andalucian Transversal Railway Axis, first approved 20 years ago. The plan was to link Huelva and Almeria via all the biggest cities in between. Much of the groundwork has been done and left abandoned or incomplete, but whether that dream will ever become reality is another question. Nonetheless, it has enabled this new, cheaper route to Sevilla to be expedited.
Costa Blanca North Cultural explosion!
GET ready for an explosion of colour and culture in l’Alfas del Pi on Sunday October 20. It’s International Day, and representatives from over 90 nationalities are expected to join in the celebrations. Taking place at the House of Culture between 11.00am and 5.00pm, this will be one of the most colourful and liveliest parties of the year.
Originating in 2007, International Day is a pioneering festive and cultural extravaganza of a fiesta. It brings together people from all walks of life as they share and learn about each other’s culture, folklore, and gastronomy, as well as national costume, hence all the colour.
There is a more serious side to the event though as it encourages and celebrates co-existence and diversity, in what is arguably one of the most multi-cultural regions of Spain.
For this reason, although held in l’Alfas del Pi, all of the regional municipalities are invited to be a part of this momentous day.
Mallorca Balearic boom
THE Balearic Islands, including Mallorca, have seen a notable rise in house prices, with an increase of 13.1 per cent over the past year.
This surge has positioned the region as Spain’s most expensive autonomous community, with an average price of €4,561 per square metre.
Within the islands, Palma has recorded one of the most significant increases among larger cities, with house prices rising by 10.2 per cent in the last year.
The average price per square metre in Palma now stands at €4,308, making it the fourth most expensive city in the country after San Sebastian, Madrid, and Barcelona.
Several factors are fuelling the rising costs in Palma and the broader Balearic region.
A lack of available land for new developments and restrictive planning laws have severely limited housing construction, exacerbating the imbalance between supply and demand.
Costa Blanca South Jet-set jackpot
ALICANTE-ELCHE Miguel Hernández Airport is on track for a record-breaking 2024, with September adding to its success.
The airport registered 1,801,340 passengers in September alone, surpassing previous figures from July and August of last year and marking a 15.3 per cent increase compared to September 2023. This brings the average number of passengers to an impressive 60,000 daily.
International travellers dominate, with 1,560,979 passengers, a 15.5 per cent increase, while national traffic also rose by 14.1 per cent, registering 239,317 passengers.
More than 85 per cent of the passengers were international, with the UK leading the way with 620,468 travellers, followed by Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France.
From January to September, a total of 14,094,464 passengers were processed, a 17 per cent increase from 2023.
Almeria
Wild Wild West
THE 14th year of the Almeria Western Film Festival wrapped up on October 13, solidifying its status as a top event for Western movie lovers in Europe. Held in the famous Tabernas desert, the festival celebrated its winners, with global superstar Viggo Mortensen snagging the award for Best Feature Film for Hasta el Fin del Mundo (Until the End of the World).
The Lord of the Rings actor, who attended the event, was thrilled, thanking the jury for recognising the hard work that went into the film. He dedicated the award to his team, highlighting how well the film has done in Spain and its popularity on platforms like Filming. “The Western genre isn’t dead; it’s got endless stories waiting to be told,” he said enthusiastically.
The closing ceremony also showcased other winners. Lisandro Alonso’s Eureka took home the Jury’s Special Prize for Best Neowestern, while Mireia Vilapuig and C. Thomas Howell won acting awards. The audience favourite was the documentary Sergio Leone: The Italian Who Invented America.
Costa Calida Aurora show
MURCIA’S night sky turned into a colourful display of auroras borealis recently, thanks to some serious solar activity. This amazing sight was seen all over Spain, from Galicia to the Balearic Islands, and people couldn’t get enough of it!
These stunning lights, which last lit up our skies in May, made a grand comeback, with bright colours dancing across the night. In places like Corvera and the hamlet of Caravaca de la Cruz, Archivel, folks shared their photos online, calling it another ‘historic moment’ for the Region of Murcia.
So, what causes these beautiful lights? They happen when charged particles from the sun meet our atmosphere, lighting up the sky in fantastic ways. Experts say we might still get a chance to see these auroras in the coming nights. If you missed out this time, keep watching - Murcia could shine again!
To catch the auroras borealis at their best, head to open areas away from lights for a clearer view.
Record-breaking kitty
THE world’s smallest cat, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, is a male named Tinker Toy, a Himalayan-Persian mix from the United States. Measuring only seven inches (18 cm) long and standing just 2.75 inches (7 cm) tall at the shoulder, Tinker Toy held the record for being the tiniest adult cat. He was born on December 25, 1990 and died in November 1997 and weighed just one pound eight ounces (680 grams) at full maturity.
Tinker Toy’s small size was the result
of selective breeding, and while many were amazed by his petite stature, he lived a full and healthy life despite his diminutive frame. His size made him a global sensation, appearing in various media outlets and fascinating animal lovers worldwide.
While Tinker Toy holds the title, smaller cats can occur naturally in other breeds like Singapura cats, but his record-breaking measurements remain unmatched, making him a unique feline in history.
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Loss of hearing
SIGNS that your dog may be going deaf include not responding to their name, ignoring familiar sounds, or being startled easily when approached. According to veterinarians, dogs that no longer follow commands they once knew may be experiencing hearing loss. Increased barking can also indicate a loss of awareness.
To diagnose hearing loss, a vet will first rule out other conditions like ear infections, wax buildup, or injuries. They may use tools like an otoscope to examine the ear canal and conduct sound tests to check for reactions. In some cases, a brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) test is used to measure hearing levels more precisely.
Helping a dog with hearing loss involves using hand signals or vi-
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sual cues to communicate. Maintaining a calm environment, approaching from the front to avoid startling them, and providing consistent routines will help them feel secure as they adjust to their new reality. Positive reinforcement is key to keeping them calm and confident.
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ANDALUCIA WALKING FOOTBALL LEAGUE
Our
‘International Break’ helping to make lives
MUCH like our professional running counterparts, occasionally we have a break from the League and Cup to play in charity events. Last weekend, two tournaments were held at El Canadon in Las Legunas de Mijas involving 13 teams, some from our own league but also Betis and Hispalis from Sevilla, Portobello from the Costa Blanca and Santos WFC from Nottingham, UK! They were both organised jointly by Santos WFC and El CanadonOld Boys. Despite the threat of poor weather, we were treated to warmth and sunshine!
The first day began with an exhibition match between Benalmadena Ladies and Competa Chicas. The result became irrelevant as the la-
dies produced a fine display.
The first tournament grouped teams in leagues of four, the results from which dictated who would progress to the Trophy and Cup semi-finals and finals. Betis and El Canadon fought out the Trophy Final with the latter winning 1-0. Portobello won their group and were joined in the battle for the Cup by Malaga, Marbella and Real Calahonda in the semis. Eventually, Calahonda beat Portobello 3-1 to lift the Cup! Gary Flaherty from Portobello was s player of the tournament.
The Larry Lloyd Memorial Trophy was played the next day and was more of a celebration of the great man’s life.
The trophy was shared between Santos
better!
WFC and Hispalis Sevilla.
At the end of the weekend, match fees, sponsorship, and donations added up to a total of over €2,000, which will be given to the AC Wollaton Charity and a local Fuengirola children’s charity, once again showing another facet of the ethos of our Walking Football family.
Huge credit goes to Santos players Gray and Roberto for organising the days; to the El Canadon owners and staff who gave their time, the venue and facilities for free; our referees who, apart from also giving their time for nothing, were also being assessed for their possible inclusion in the impending Walking Foootball World Cup in Spain in 2025.
‘Simply lovely’ trademark
MAX VERSTAPPEN has legally applied to trademark the catchphrase ‘simply lovely’ and fans are wondering what the real reason for this could be. Verstappen’s ‘frenemy’ on and off the track, Lando Norris, used the expression earlier in the season after beating Verstappen by 22 seconds in the Dutch Grand Prix back in August. Verstappen is well-known for using the catchphrase and Norris stated he wasn’t having a dig at Verstappen when he
simply lovely’ to which race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase replied, ‘oh, simply mate.’ From then on, the expression became synonymous with Verstappen.
Verstappen has won another 58 Grand Prix since then and is often heard using the expression over his radio.
The European Union Intellectual Property Network confirmed Verstappen made the application in May this year and he will be told if the application has been successful or not in November. It is rumoured Verstappen wants to trademark ‘simply lovely’ to be used on his merchandise, specifically a new clothing
The three-time world champion is said to be seeking the use of the phrase on a range of garments including clothing, footwear, headgear and more.
Things are looking simply lovely for Max Verstappen at the moment.
