Costa Calida 24-30 August 2023 Issue 1990

Issue No. 22 (1990) 24 - 30 August 2023

COSTA CALIDA • EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM

HARVEST FESTIVAL

Catherine McGeer

THE Jumilla Grape Harvest Festival, a cherished annual event, marked its 50th anniversary with a jubilant celebration that revolved around its classic competitions and poignant traditions. The festival’s programme embraced its time­honoured competitions, engaging locals and visitors alike.

Some of the activities included the tractor skill and handling competition, followed by the revered Monastrell grape competition, showcasing the essence of the local viticulture. In the afternoon, the renowned grape treading competitions by the Peña Amigos del Campo and the spirited grape seed throwing competition organised by the Brocá y dos Yemas association added a competitive spirit to the festivities!

However, the heart of the celebration was the symbolic Offering of Grapes and First Mosto to the Child of the Grapes. A total of 28 clubs from the Federación de Peñas de la Fiesta de la Vendimia and 12 festive delega­

tions from neighbouring regions joined in this touching ritual, signifying unity and shared heritage.

Prior to this moving event, visiting delegations were warmly received at Jumilla’s town hall. The customary parade through the town’s streets added

Sporting unity

OVER 1,000 people joined forces for the second annual Solidarity Walk, a remarkable event organised by Agrodolores and the Vive de San Javier Club and was captained and led by Lolo Cain, assistant coach of the Real Madrid Basketball team.

The participants undertook a five­kilometre journey through Santiago de la Ribera on Sunday morning,

August 20. Notably, the event’s proceeds were dedicated to Aidemar, a local charity underlining a commitment to their local charitable organisations and associations. As the athletes crossed the finish line, the promise of a satisfying reward awaited: a beachfront lunch that offered a perfect way to replenish their energy while celebrating their achievements together.

a colourful touch to the festivities, enhancing the sense of community and celebration. As the Jumilla Grape Harvest Festival reached its milestone 50th year, it continued to embody the region’s cultural richness and timeless traditions.

Nature’s healing mud

STEPPING into the seaside town of San Pedro del Pinatar is like stepping back in time. Unlike other tourist resorts, this town has held onto its traditional values and its authenticity.

Locals sit in the shade eating watermelon and chatting, Spanish families haul everything but the kitchen sink to the beaches of the Mar Menor and tourists enjoy a caña and a tapa while watching the world go by. Among this setting sits the Lodos del Mar Menor or the Mud Baths of the Mar Menor where people come from all over to cover themselves in this healing mud. Although this is a popular attraction in the area it is never over ­

crowded or packed with tourists. With locals and tourists side by side slathering on the mud, it has a friendly and relaxing atmosphere. Locals frequently extend helpful gestures, offering visitors tips and encouragement.

Crafted over centuries by a combination of the sun and the lagoon’s high

salinity, these muds possess extraordinary therapeutic properties. They have become a natural haven for those seeking relief from various ailments. Enriched by calcium, magnesium, potassium, etc these muds offer unique mineralisation potential. Applied to the skin, the muds display re­

markable absorption abilities, drawing out toxins from deep within. They act as nature’s remedy for rheumatism, arthritis, and skin conditions. Their excellent heat conductivity renders them potent anti ­ inflammatories as well.

Locals and visitors apply this mud and then bask in the sunlight until the mud dries naturally and then rinse it off with the water from the salt lakes, while flamingos stroll by searching for a snack along the salt lake floor. The mud baths are located beside the Playa Villananitos. You can enjoy them at any time just like the beach and are completely free of charge.

Image: Facebook/Jumilla Town Hall

Image: Catherine McGeer

HARVESTING TRADITION: Fifty years of Jumilla’s Grape Festival.

Visitors enjoying the therapeutic properties of the Mud Baths. (Teodoro, Natalia, and Tamara Blamadeala)

Mihaela and Stefano Ginjv.

Hotel boom

SAN JAVIER is awaiting approval for a new hotel project in Santiago de La Ribera, while also gearing up to promote another one in the iconic La Manga area. The town’s officials are committed to revitalising the tourism sector and boosting hotel infrastructure with a sustainable approach.

The San Javier Town Hall plans to invest €700,000 in the dismantling of the Lagomar building, located at kilometre 7 of the La Manga region. This financial outlay is intended to be recouped from Tomás Maestre, the owner of the building which was originally designed as a companion to the Doblemar Hotel in the 1970s but remained unfinished.

Mayor José Miguel Luengo aims to explore possibilities for constructing a new hotel. This could in­

volve either expanding the existing Doblemar hotel or creating a standalone establishment. The focus is on adhering to sustainability criteria to bolster the tourism sector.

Meanwhile, a separate initiative is in progress to facilitate the construction of a four or five­star hotel at the site of the former Los Arcos Hospital in Santiago de la Ribera.

Forest fire reduction

Catherine

McGeer

THE Region of Murcia has seen a remarkable decline in forest fire incidents, marking an 84.5 per cent reduction compared to the previous year. The shift is particularly striking when analysing the affected area ­ a decrease of almost 85 per cent. In 2022, 271.87 hectares were consumed by flames, whereas the current year has witnessed fires affecting only 42.12 hectares.

These findings were disclosed by the Regional Ministry of the Environment, Mar Menor, Universities, and Research on World Wildfire Prevention Day.

The Director General for the Natural Environment María Cruz Ferreira highlighted the methods that have been used to con­

trol the outbreak of forest fires. They include managing forests better, diversifying plants, making forests stronger, strict protocols for human activity within forest areas, and continuous forest maintenance.

They have also been working on the prevention of arson, lightning ­ induced fires, and potential simultaneous outbreaks. The region’s Forest Fire Defence Unit (UDIF) boasts a workforce of nearly 500 personnel, including experts, technicians, and firefighters strategically placed across the territory.

The collaborative commitment of these individuals, alongside volunteers and civil protection groups has culminated in the decrease of forest fires.

THE picturesque landscapes of Bullas, San Pedro del Pinatar, and Portman have been chosen as the backdrop for the shooting of the short film ‘Los chicos del mar’. This exciting project is under the skilled direction of filmmaker, stage director, and playwright José Antonio Valera, a native of Bullas himself.

With a dynamic team of

Cinematic Murcia

20 professionals, this independent production has found a welcoming home in Bullas, where the local council has generously provided accommodations and support.

The storyline follows a unique relationship that

takes an unexpected turn when one of the characters mysteriously vanishes. The movie then follows a quest to locate their missing friend, but is met with challenges. With Murcia as a backdrop, the film includes, an astonishing sea monster

that emerges in the unlikely confines of a municipal swimming pool!

Director José Antonio Valera describes the film as a fusion of B­movie aesthetics, showcasing his enthusiasm for working with prosthetics. As the cameras roll in these charming Mediterranean locations, ‘Los chicos del mar’ promises to deliver a tale of suspense.

SAN JAVIER: Exploring possibilities for a new hotel.

Boat fire

A SAILING boat fire near Águilas led to four burn injuries after an explosion. A coordinated response involving Local Police, rescue teams, and ambulances provided immediate treatment. The injured were swiftly moved to Virgen de la Arrixaca Hospital.

Firey paprika

A BLAZE erupted at a paprika factory in Alhama de Murcia early Sunday, August 20, prompting a swift response from firefighters. The facility, at the entrance from Totana, N­340 road, was engulfed. A team of nine firefighters fought the flames.

Pedro Acosta

PEDRO ACOSTA secured second place at the Austrian GP, extending his lead in the world championship race. Hailing from Mazarron, he now boasts a 12­point advantage over rival Tony Arbolino, who finished sixth.

Grape exports

THE Region of Murcia is a leader in table grape exports, and it has drawn global attention for its genetic improvement programme.

Over two decades, IMIDA has created new grape varieties, attracting attention from around the world.

Food contest

JUMILLA’s gachamigas competition this year has achieved remarkable success. Despite being a winter delicacy, the event drew enthusiasts to the fairgrounds to create the best flour, oil, water, and salt­based ‘Jumillano’ product!

Bridge problem

THE Estacio Bridge in La Manga has suffered yet another breakdown, causing extensive traffic congestion. The recurring issues highlight the bridge’s significance, leaving residents isolated and emphasising the need for improved contingency plans.

Pop up music

Catherine McGeer

SAN PEDRO DEL PINATAR came alive as different neighbourhoods enjoyed free activities, live music, and child­friendly games.

The weekend witnessed hundreds, including residents and tourists, dancing joyfully in Villananitos and El Mojón.

The Murcian singer Salva Ortega appeared in one of the concerts in the streets of San Pedro del Pinatar. He said on his social media accounts “I can’t express in words

Community support

MERCADONA donated over 10,500 tonnes of food during the first half of 2023. Collaborating with 22 organisations and associations in the Region of Murcia, Mercadona’s contributions have significantly impacted communities in need.

The company’s generosity equates to around 174,200 shopping trolleys of essential items, which were thoughtfully distributed among more than 650 social organisations across not only Murcia, but the rest of Spain and Portugal.

Within the Region of

Murcia, Mercadona’s involvement shines brightly as it donated an impressive 319 tonnes of basic necessities to its 22 associations. The company’s support transcends mere donations, extending to initiatives like ‘Gran Recogida’ (Big Collection) and ‘Operaciones Kilo’ (Operation Kilo), where it provides monetary contributions and essential logistical resources also.

This multi ­ faceted approach exemplifies Mercadona’s unwavering commitment to sustainable and meaningful social impact.

YOUR EWN HAS

what we felt last night.

Thanks to all the people who came from so many places, we couldn’t fit in so many people who came to see us, we are very happy. Thanks to Espectáculos Barceló and the town hall of San Pedro Del Pinatar and Festejos San Pedro del Pinatar especially Javier Castejon, for the opportunity to make our concert with a live band and all my team, dancers, musicians, and choirs, thank you for making possible such a concert.”

Corvera’s challenges

CORVERA Airport faced a setback in July as its passenger numbers declined by 2.2 per cent compared to the same period in 2022. The airport, still recovering from the pandemic’s impact, has also fallen short by 19.2 per cent when compared to July 2019 passenger figures. In July, Corvera Airport saw a total of 117,459 passengers utilising its facilities.

Despite this dip, there is a glimmer of hope in the year ­ to ­ date performance. Corvera Airport witnessed nearly 500,000 passengers between Jan ­

Festival traditions

THE International Day of the Garden and the Sea of Los Alcázares attracted thousands, both locals and visitors flocked to the streets to enjoy these festivities.

The Bando Internacional de la Huerta y el Mar, held as part of the International Week of the Garden and the Sea, is an important date in the town of Los Alcázares.

The festivities kicked off with a parade where they distributed toys along with fresh produce along the

64 STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

‘MENORTOY’ Fair

GET ready to dive into a world of vintage toys and collectibles at the inaugural ‘MENORTOY’ event, on September 16 and 17. It will be hosted at the picturesque Porto Chico Club Nautico San Pedro del Pinatar, and this weekend promises an unmatched experience for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

uary and July, a 6 per cent increase from 2022. However, the gap from 2019 remains significant at 21.4 per cent. While international routes showed promise with 6 per cent growth in demand, Corvera Airport’s struggle contrasts with Alicante Airport’s success.

The latter saw a 21.6 per cent growth up to July and exceeded 2019 figures by 2.5 per cent, emphasising the varying recovery trajectories within the aviation industry and highlighting travellers’ preference for the airport in El Altet.

Saturday kicks off the festivities from 10am to 2.30pm, followed by an afternoon session from 4.30pm to 8.30pm. Sunday continues the excitement from 10am to 2.30pm. An array of stands will showcase treasures from the toy and leisure industry, including iconic classics like Playmobil and dolls to the trendy Funko Pop collectibles. Adding an element of surprise, exhibitions and special guest appearances are in store, with more details to be revealed in the days leading up to the event.

Los Alcázares promenade. At 7pm, the grand parade of the Bando Internacional de la Huerta y el Mar took place.

Over 20 intricately designed floats took part in the parade representing Murcian agricultural traditions, international folklore, and culture from around the world.

After the parade, the party continued with live music and the festival venue served traditional Murcian tapas like zarangollo and paparajote.

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

Live music popping up throughout San Pedro.

Image: Facebook/San Pedro Townhall

Terra Natura shines

Catherine McGeer

TERRA NATURA Murcia has earned well­deserved recognition as a socially responsible company for its outstanding ‘12 months with you’ programme. Launched in 2018 in collaboration with Murcia City Council, the ‘12 months with you’ project has made a profound impact. Benefiting over 350 individuals from various associations in the Region, such as Fundown, Astrapace, Assido, Aspapros, and Afacmur. Each month, the park hosts a tailored experience

for a specific charitable group. Participants are treated to guided tours of the park’s diverse areas, where they can learn about its animals’ characteristics, and

during the summer, they get to enjoy the water park.

Gustavo Martínez, the director of Terra Natura, expressed gratitude for the recognition and hopes that

Coastal collab

THE Community of Murcia has once again collaborated with the Spanish Red Cross to enhance its coastal rescue efforts within its region. This year’s initiative, under the ‘Plan Copla 2023’, focuses on ensuring prompt and coordinated responses to emergencies in both bathing areas and the open sea.

Juan María Vázquez, the acting councillor for the Environment, Mar Menor, Universities, and Research, highlighted the objective of the collaboration: “The aim is to assist the Red Cross in delivering effective, coordinated, and efficient material and personnel responses to emergencies occur­

Back to school

this initiative sets a benchmark for the industry. He underlined the park’s dedication to both the environment and people, aiming to create an inclusive and open space for all.

Moreover, Terra Natura’s commitment to accessibility is evident through various measures. The park has adapted entrances for individuals with reduced mobility, established wheelchairfriendly zones, and introduced the use of amphibious chairs in the water park.

ring in inland waters, beaches, and coastal areas.”

This collaboration equips the Murcia Region Red Cross with three rescue boats stationed in San Pedro del Pinatar, Cabo de Palos (Cartagena), and Puerto de Mazarron. The dedication of the Spanish Red Cross in emergency response, particularly in maritime situations, renders it a valuable partner for the region. As of August 14, the Copla Plan has facilitated 571 rescues and administered 6,970 first aid treatments.

Ouigo expand

THE private rail company Ouigo has gained provisional permission from Adif, the Administrator of Railway Infrastructures, to operate in Murcia, commencing service in May next year. This development marks a significant milestone in Ouigo’s expansion efforts within the region. The high­speed rail service is set to connect Madrid, Albacete, Elche, and Murcia, promising reduced travel times and increased connectivity for passengers. The route is projected to take around two hours and 45 minutes. Ouigo plans to offer four daily journeys, two in each direction, with proposed departure times of 7am and 9pm from Murcia. The trains will not pass through Alicante station. With fares starting at €9, Ouigo aims to provide affordable travel options. Additionally, Ouigo plans to provide ample seating capacity, with up to 14,000 seats available.

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

GOING back to school is highlighting financial concerns for parents in the Region of Murcia, as the cost per student reaches a significant figure. According to a study by Banqmi, a financial portal, the Region ranks as the fifth most expensive autonomous community in Spain for back­to­school expenses. Parents here will need to allocate approximately €422 per student, an increase of 0.78 per cent from the previous year.

This rise, though lower than the national average, still adds strain to household budgets.

Comparatively, this cost is nearly €12 higher than the country’s average, highlighting the financial burden families are facing. Antonio Gallardo, a financial expert at Banqmi, pointed out the compounding effect of these increases, underscoring the challenge for families.

To provide some relief, the consumer rights organisation FACUA advises parents that they have the freedom to choose where they purchase textbooks, school materials, and uniforms. Additionally, the association warns against misleading advertisements and recommends scrutinising the fine print of discount offers. If schools enforce unfair conditions, FACUA encourages reporting to appropriate authorities.

Online appeal

SINCE its launch in January, ‘turismoregiondemurcia.es’ has become a tour de force in Murcia’s tourism sector.

With Carlos Alcaraz as the face of the campaign it has garnered over 1.5 million page views. The platform’s success signifies its pivotal role in redefining the region’s online tourism promotion.

The strategic shift from the previous domain, murciaturis tica.es, highlights the commitment to personalised content and improved positioning in the national and international tourism market.

With a collection of more than 200 unique experiences, the portal immerses visitors in blue tourism, sensory nature encounters, gastronomic journeys, active adventures, and wine explorations. Bookings have soared, with ‘cultural’

Means that in love and war you do not have to obey the usual rules about reasonable behaviour. This phrase was first used in 1578 in a novel, Euphues: The Anatomy of Wit, written by John Lyly.

and ‘active and nature’ offerings leading the way. Visitor satisfaction remains exceptionally high, with average scores of 9.5, a testament to service excellence and quality. Innovation thrives, evidenced by the interactive mapping feature co­financed by the EU, synchronising 7,000 diverse resources. Mobile access dominance, with 64 per cent of visits from smartphones, highlighting the digital evolution. ‘turismore giondemurcia.es’ exemplifies how strategic digital initiatives can reshape a region’s tourism landscape, enhancing experiences and global appeal.

21,000 Black taxis in London.

FOSTERING INCLUSIVITY: Terra Natura Murcia’s ‘12 Months with You’ programme.

“All’s fair in love and war.”

Pet abandonment crisis

THE Region of Murcia is grappling with an alarming surge in pet abandonments, leaving animal protection organisations overwhelmed and facilities stretched to their limits.

While every summer typically witnesses an increase in abandoned pets, this year’s situation has left animal advocates deeply concerned. Data from the Affinity Foundation reveals a 1.3 per cent rise in pet abandonments across Spain in 2022, post ­ pandemic. However, the situation in Murcia appears to be far more dire.

The Murcia Animal Protection and Zoonoses Control service reported nearly a 50 per cent increase in pet

Summer theatrics

Catherine McGeer

collections in 2022 compared to the previous year, with 758 dogs and 229 cats.

This disturbing trend seems set to continue, as projections for 2023 show an even bleaker picture. Economic struggles, heightened by a 21 per cent VAT on animal health products are suspected to be driving abandonment rates.

The imminent implementation of a new animal welfare law, effective from September 29, is also contributing to the rise in abandonments. The law imposes stricter responsibilities on pet owners and enforces harsher penalties for abandonment and mistreatment.

THE Castle of Caravaca de la Cruz hosts a captivating series of theatrical performances until September 2. This event is part of the town council’s summer cultural, leisure, and tourist activities. The councillor for Tourism, José Santiago Villa, along with key figures from the Vera Cruz Brotherhood and the play’s director, José Andrés López, organised this event. The councillor stated “This activity, suitable for all audiences, is a magnificent opportunity to visit our town and enjoy the culture and historical heritage in an absolutely privileged environment.

“It is endorsed by its numerous editions and by the

public that every year surrounds it. Last year alone, more than 2,000 people attended this event.”

The show, titled ‘The Untragedy of Macbeth’, is a quirky adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, revolving around power­hungry nobles in absurd scenarios. Characters beyond imagination clash

THE Region of Murcia has witnessed a substantial increase in people taking leave of absence from work in order to care for family in the first six months of 2023, with 925 community workers utilising this provision. This marks a 46 per cent surge from the previous year and surpasses the Spanish average. The trend reflects heightened societal awareness and persistent gaps in public services for the elderly, dependents, and children.

María Jesús Gómez, from CC OO­RM, notes that the rising cost of living makes it challenging

THIS year, the Tourism Qualification Centre (CCT) will host the preliminary round of the ninth Chef of the Year Competition and the fifth Waiter of the Year Competition, bringing together 20 talented participants in a fierce contest of skills and innovation on November 22 and 23.

Renowned as prestigious gastronomic events, these competitions not only highlight the CCT’s stature as a premier institution for hospitality and tourism education but also bolster the Region’s identity as a prominent gastronomic hub. Having earned the title of Spanish Capital of Gastronomy (CEG) in 2020 and 2021, the Region stands as a culinary powerhouse.

The competitions’ judging panels, comprised of top national professionals, will subject candidates to theoretical and practical tests, including intricate dish preparation, beer pulling, cocktail crafting, and table setting. The contest promises to be intense, with

in this uproarious power struggle, promising surprises and laughter. It is staged every Wednesday to Saturday at 10pm, the event brings historical heritage and culture to life in a unique setting.

Tickets, available at the Castle’s entrance, are priced at €8 for adults and €6 for children aged four to 18.

Family support

for people to afford certain services, pushing them to consider reduced work hours for increased family time. Inadequate public spaces and aid contribute to this decision, affecting parents and the elderly. Another worrying part of this trend shows that it is mostly women making these career sacrifices for their families where 8.4 women take leave for every one man, and indicates slow progress in gender equality.

Culinary clash

12 chefs and eight waiters eyeing the coveted titles. The victors will then go on to the

grand finale in March 2024 at the renowned Alimentaria & Hostelco trade fair.

Blazing ahead

EVERY year we follow a similar pattern: July and the first two weeks of August crank up the heat but then a welcome refreshing breeze picks up and helps us through until the end of summer. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem that will be the case this year as the Spanish Meteorological Agency (Aemet) has issued a warning, predicting that the latter half of August will also make the history books as one of the hottest periods ever recorded! Following July’s unprecedented heatwave, which clinched the title for the hottest month in recorded history, temperatures are projected to remain significantly above average for the remainder of the summer.

The outlook for August includes a continuation of high temperatures, more tropical nights, and an absence of rainfall. This prolonged dry spell is anticipated to worsen drought conditions in numerous regions. Aemet’s spokesperson, Rubén Del Campo, emphasised that the mercury is expected to surge notably during the second half of the week with temperatures expected to soar to 38 or even 40 ºC. September, October, and November are also predicted to remain warmer than usual across Spain.

STAGE SHOW: Summer nights at Caravaca Castle.

Image: Facebook/Caravaca Town Hall

Catherine McGeer

A STOLEN 16th­century musical manuscript has been successfully reclaimed from Murcia, marking a significant victory for historical preservation. The manuscript, part of a collection of 221 choral books commissioned by King Felipe II for the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo del Escorial, was taken from the monastery in the 1980s by former students of the María Cristina Royal University Centre.

Musical treasure

Thanks to diligent investigative work, the whereabouts of one stolen sheet came to light, leading to its recovery in Murcia. This particular sheet, page 8 of Cantoral 140, was identified through meticulous checks. The Cantoral itself consists of 58 paginated sheets and three unpaginated ones, including the Veni Creator in a novice’s profession.

The manuscript, adorned with Gothic inscriptions and 16th­century musical notations, is a remarkable relic crafted by the hands of various artisans of the time. It has now been safely returned to its rightful home at the Monastery of El Escorial, reaffirming the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for generations to come.

Lifesaver Alexa

NOWADAYS many households own an Amazon Echo or similar device and whilst some think it exists to eavesdrop on conversation and feedback information, it is also a potential life saver.

Imagine a situation where someone in your home is having a cardiac arrest, then if you have previously activated an Alexa skill by saying “Alexa activate emergency cpr” then you are set up to seek advice by shouting “Alexa Emergency CPR.”

Alexa will subsequently give you advice on how to deal with the emergency whilst you await the arrival of an ambu­

lance (which incidentally, you may be able to call through a contact list held by Alexa).

The more you explore the positive options such as the announcement facility whereby you can communicate with others throughout the house or activate opening the front door if you are alone and have a fall, the easier it becomes to use this tool.

The more you explore the more you will find Alexa can help, but for a bit of light relief just say “Alexa what’s your name?” and wait for the surprising response.

Military life begins

THE Royal Household of Spain has released the first images of the Princess of Asturias at the General Military Academy (AGM) of Zaragoza, which she entered on Thursday, August 17. In the different photographs, the heiress to the throne is seen wearing a military shirt, a camouflaged Army uniform and a badge on her chest with the shield of the military teaching centre, cadet stripes and her last name ‘Borbón Ortiz’.

The images show her with a serious face in formation in the courtyard, in class (writing with her left hand, as she is left handed), listening to the instruc tions of another soldier, and taking a canteen from its packaging. She wears a military hat and her hair is pinned up in a bun. She wears no earrings and her only accessory is a digital watch with a plastic strap.

During her first two weeks at the academy, the lady cadet Borbón Ortíz (which is her mili tary name) is following the phase of adaptation to mil itary life, before beginning the first academic year,

which will conclude on October 7 with taking an oath. The princess shares a dormitory with 11 other companions, with communal toilets and showers.

The only private space for her is a work table and a wardrobe.

Her captain, who received her on Thursday at the entrance to the academy, where the King, Queen Letizia and her sister, the Infanta Sofía, went to see her off, is her tutor.

The heiress to the Crown will spend three years in the academies of the Army (Zaragoza), the Navy (Marín) and the Air Force (San Javier), where she will prepare to assume her responsibility as Supreme Command of the Forces in the future Armed Forces, which the Constitution attributes to the Head of State. The Princess of Asturias will turn 18 on October 31.

A clear farton winner

VALENTIN FERRER, a gastronomic challenge ­ focused YouTuber from Cartagena, emerged as the victor of the 21st edition of the horchata and fartons eating contest, held at L’Albereda during the annual fair in Xàtiva.

His astounding feat involved devouring an impressive 82 fartons within a span of 37 minutes, breaking his own previous record of 54 fartons consumed. Post­contest, Ferrer shared his thoughts, stating, “I’ve only been doing this for a short time, and it’s my second win in Xàtiva. I’ve won about four or five contests. Now, I have to head home because I have a wedding to attend tomorrow.”

Joining Ferrer at the table were fellow YouTubers Ricardo Vidal and Manux3, who secured second and third place, respectively. Vidal managed to consume a total of 51 pastries, while the third­place finisher scoffed 48. The contest, organised by local firm Xococap, at ­

tracted a total of 98 participants. David Pla, the company’s head, mentioned that 80 pre ­ registration slots were filled by Monday, August 14, leaving a handful of spots for the contest day. Although the participant count fell just short of 100, applicants travelled from various parts of the peninsula, including Bilbao and Tenerife. The grand scale of the event is underscored by the figures provided by the organisers, with 250 litres of horchata and a staggering 2,956 fartons eaten. The contest was structured into three phases: first, participants were

tasked with consuming 12 units within 12 minutes; second, the challenge was to eat six fartons in 10 minutes; and finally, a 15 ­ minute stretch with no consumption limits.

Ferrer’s exceptional performance outshone his competitors by a significant margin. To ensure fairness, a team of multiple monitors oversaw the proceedings, with each responsible for 10 participants. Ferrer’s achievement of consuming 82 fartons in just 37 minutes undoubtedly stands as a remarkable feat within the world of competitive eating.

The Princess of Asturias.

Credit: The Royal Household

XATIVA FAIR: An incredible 82 fartons were consumed.

Credit: Xativa Fair

Health care help

IT is a little­known fact that Spain’s paediatric specialists, such as cardiologists, pulmonologists, oncologists, allergists and 23 other specialists, who care for millions of children and adolescents in Spain, are not officially recognised by the Spanish national health system.

The 12,000 paediatricians of the Spanish Association of Paediatrics (AEP) are fighting for the recognition of paediatric specialists, a vital step to ensure the quality of medical care for children and adolescents.

For years, the AEP has been battling for the official recognition of paediatric specialists. The public has been asked to give their collective weight by adding their names on Change.org

Without formal recognition, the future of child healthcare is jeopardised.

The fight for recognition is not just a professional matter; it’s a right that children and adolescents deserve.

There are five good reasons to sign the petition.

• More than six million Spanish children and adolescents are attended by medical specialists who are not officially recognised. Paediatric specialists deserve the same recognition as adult specialists.

• They request a specific training itinerary for the primary care paediatrician within the MIR programme in Paediatrics.

• The lack of Paediatricians in Primary Care

PAEDIATRICIANS: Deserve to have some recognition.

is causing many deficiencies within Spain. They demand that the authorities adopt the necessary measures to attract pediatric professionals to primary care centres.

• The lack of recognition of paediatric specialities makes it difficult to offer public employment positions to paediatricians with specific profiles. They urge that a geographical map be drawn up to estimate the need for paediatric specialists in relation to the paediatric population in order to plan the specialised human resources needed in the future.

• Paediatric specialities are recognised in the European Community and in other countries of the world.

Due to the lack of recognition, Spanish specialists have difficulties in obtaining recognition for their paediatric degrees in order to be able to work in other countries.

What to do in a Wildfire

Jo Pugh

WILDFIRES are now a reality, and can strike at any moment. From a lightning strike, a discarded bottle or a lit cigarette carelessly thrown from a window, a raging fire can be alight and spread in a matter of moments. Preparation is key.

As catastrophic wildfires continue to increase each year, make sure to protect yourself and your family ­ plan, prepare and stay aware. This is where the crucial Evacuation Pack comes into play. Designed by Jill Leonard of the Wildfire Watch App, this advice is essential reading. Keep a copy of this article somewhere safe.

Contents of your evac­pack

1. Emergency food and water. Snacks, baby essentials, bottles of water and pet food.

2.Photos. Put memory sticks of photos in the pack.

3. Papers. Put all your ID and all important papers in the evac­pack.

4. Medicines. Don’t forget to take your medications with you. Don’t forget the ones that have to be refrigerated like insulin. If you have spare medication put them in the evac­pack.

5. Money. The evac­pack is where you

would keep an emergency amount of money. You may not be able to use an ATM in the event of a power outage.

6. Petrol or Diesel. If you can make sure your car always has half a tank of fuel. Evacuation routes could be bumper to bumper traffic.

Having a tank at least half filled will keep you less stressed.

7. Address and phone book. If you don’t have the important addresses/ phone numbers stored on your phone then use an address book and keep it in your evac­pack.

8. Chargers. Keep them handy to throw in the evac ­ pack at the last minute! Chargers for phones, tablets, laptops etc. Buy a powerbank.

9. Emergency clothes. According to the weather conditions put a change of clothes in the evac­pack.

10. An old calendar. Handy to have stashed then you won’t forget those important dates.

11. Personal protection for ladies. Ladies do have ‘that time of the month’! Be sure and pack a spare box of your preferred protection.

12. Battery powered radio. Worth considering. Tune it into a local radio station which you know is likely to have emergency bulletins.

13. Photos or videos of your house and contents. Insurance companies are asking for proof of your belongings and the contents of your property when they are processing a claim.

14. Patience: This is one of the most important things to pack. Keep it inside of you so that you have a clear, calm head.

If your phone is on Pay ­ as ­ you ­ go, make sure it is topped up.

Finally, make sure you have somewhere to take your pets or farm animals.

WILDFIRES: Make sure you protect your family - plan, prepare and stay aware.

FOOD PRICE RISES:

Are groceries cheaper in Spain or the UK?

As food inflation in Spain increased by half a per cent in July and fell over 2 per cent in the UK, we ask: Are Spanish supermarkets still cheaper than their British equivalents?

INFLATION rates in the last year have been running rampant globally, but it has been the eye­watering increases to food prices that have regularly hit news headlines across Europe. The UK’s Office for National Statistics have reported that food inflation decreased by over 2 per cent in July; by comparison, Spain’s National Statistics Institute revealed that inflation on food rose by 0.5 per cent in July to 10.83 per cent. What often gets missed in the headlines is that all a decrease in the inflation rate means is that food is still increasing in cost, just not as quickly as previously.

Most expats living in Spain will relay glowing tales of how much cheaper it is to eat out than the European country they hail from; the low average cost of a drink and a tapa is a particular favourite to get family and friends back in the home country bubbling with envy and idly considering making the move themselves.

The received wisdom amongst Northern European expats is that supermarket shopping in Spain is also significantly cheaper, but is that actually true? We created a Euro Weekly News grocery basket and took to the price comparison sites to find out. The results may just shock you.

all countries (eg Lidl) and differences in produce seasonality, brands, package sizes and temporary discounts all add to the complexity. We created a basket of 22 items commonly bought by expats and used online price checkers on August 20, 2023 to find the cheapest non­discounted version of each item in five of the most popular supermarkets in Spain and the UK:

● Apples ­ 1kg

● Onions ­ 1kg

● Potatoes ­ 1kg

● Iceberg Lettuce (Whole)

● Semi­Skimmed Milk ­ 1L

● Butter ­ 250g

● Cheddar Cheese (Mature) ­ 300g

● Dozen Eggs

● Medium Whole Chicken

● Mince Beef ­ 500g

● Instant Coffee ­ 200g

● Whole Oats ­ 500g

● Large Sliced Loaf

● Olive Oil ­ 1L

● Tuna in Oil ­ 360g

● Mayonnaise ­ 500g

● Tomato Ketchup ­ 500g

● Long Grain Rice ­ 1kg

● Spaghetti (Dried) ­ 1kg

● Toilet Rolls ­ Six Pack

kets in the UK and this is despite the Spanish government dropping VAT on many of the items in our list at the start of 2023, whilst the UK government have taken no measures to halt price hikes

● The most expensive supermarket basket overall was from French owned Carrefour.

France was highlighted by the BBC in June as having the highest food prices out of a comparison study of five European countries and the price of food there is, on average, 11 per cent higher than in other EU countries.

● The difference in price between the cheapest and most expensive food basket was a staggering €23.85.

● The average price of the food basket was €53.67, over €10 more expensive than the cheapest from Aldi UK.

The ranking in full:

1. Aldi ­ UK €43.12 (£36.87)

2. Tesco ­ UK €50.02 (£42.76)

3. Sainsburys ­ UK €51.64 (£44.16)

4. Asda ­ UK €52.09 (£44.45)

5. Aldi ­ ES €53.11

6. Morrisons ­ UK €53.63 ( £45.86)

7. Mercadona ­ ES €54.29

8. Consum ­ ES €54.75

9. Dia ­ ES €57.10

10. Carrefour ­ ES €66.97

Food Basket in both Spain and the UK was courtesy of Aldi, the German discount store, BUT this win has a twist because whilst the Spanish Aldi basket was €53.11 its British counterpart came in nearly €10 cheaper at €43.12 (£36.87) making Aldi UK the cheapest supermarket overall in our price check.

Is the cost of food in the supermarkets starting to bite for you?

We’d love to hear your comments and any tips and tricks you have to keep food costs down.

Unsurprisingly, comparing the prices of food across supermarkets and across different countries is a painstaking task. Not all popular supermarkets have price catalogues online in

Digging in to the results highlights a few surprises and busts a few myths:

● The four cheapest food baskets were all from supermar­

• Is Grocery Shopping Cheaper in Spain?

• The EWN Grocery Basket

Comparing the prices of food.

Illegal hunting trophies

John Ensor

SPANISH authorities have arrested an individual for possessing 50 hunting trophies of dubious origin, in a case that highlights the ongoing struggle against wildlife crime.

The arrest took place in the province of Zaragoza, in the towns of Daroca and Manchones. The Nature Protection Service of the Guardia Civil in Zaragoza began the investigation, culminating in the discovery of full­skinned heads of a lioness and brown bear, naturalised animals such as grouse, otter, jay, or genet, and other trophies, according to a report published on Saturday, August 19. Many of these animals are protected under the CITES international agreement on international trade in endangered species. The trophies were found in two buildings, lacking proper documentation to prove their legality.

After obtaining judicial authorisation, the property in Daroca was searched, uncovering a lioness head, a brown bear head, and a wildebeest

head, all with full skin and in a naturalised state. The operation, named Luria, continued in Manchones, where more pieces without legal documentation were found. Among the items discovered were a naturalised capercaillie, an otter, a jay, and a genet, numerous heads and skulls of animals such as fox, buffalo, chamois, wolf, or wildebeest, as well as tusk trophies. The documentation that the holder of the pieces and trophies was able to deliver to officers was seized for study and verification. Other trophies such as roe deer or goat skulls, some of them with seals, were photographed and annotated for verification, and

were placed at the disposal of the judicial authorities.

Some pieces were also found in a frozen state inside a chest. In addition, in the search of the latter home, two gun racks for the safety and keeping of long arms were found.

WILDLIFE CRIME: Fifty hunting trophies were found.

76% Home ownership in Spain.

BUSINESS EXTRA

Down-and-out

LONDON’S increasingly tawdry Oxford Street could become a blueprint for Britain’s high streets, warned the Retail Sector Council. Richard Pennycook, the council’s vice­chairman and former Co­op chief executive, said towns and cities could become ‘wastelands’ owing to lack of investment incentives for retailers.

Sort it out

BARCELONA­based Picvisa specialises in sorting and classification technologies which use artificial intelligence, artificial vision and optical sorters. The company has now developed a ‘deep learning’ machine that sorts different types of rubbish and detritus while identifying the discarded objects and even their make.

Right royal

THE Spanish Royal Household’s bank balance increased to €6.05 million in 2022, rising from €5.78 million in 2021, thanks to having made savings of €273,643. The Crown received €8.431 million last year, €4.02 million of which has been spent on personnel, the Household’s biggest outlay.

Branching out

AGNELLI, Ferrari and Stellantis’ largest shareholder, acquired a 15 per cent stake in under­pressure Philips which has had to recall millions of faulty sleep apnoea machines. The £2 billion (€2.33 billion) deal also enables Agnelli to increase its stake by up to 20 per cent and possibly take a seat on the Philips’ board.

No biggie

BRITISH companies are progressively more downbeat about the benefits of postBrexit free trade deals, according to a Department for Business and Trade survey. More than 3,000 companies revealed that 58 per cent of firms now believe that the deals will not have a positive impact, the department found.

STAT OF WEEK €25 billion

in overseas trade for Spain’s 170 pharmaceutical companies which overtook the car industry as the country’s principal export sector in 2022, boosted by sales of Covid-19 vaccines.

Issas move Higher interest rates looming

Linda Hall

SALARIES increased more than predicted in June, fuelled by a one­off payout to NHS employees.

In consequence, the Bank of England is once again under pressure to raise interest rates owing to the higher wages.

Raised borrowing costs are on the cards, even though the UK jobs market indicated that employers were letting staff go as economic activity began to slow down.

Redundancies increased and unemployment rose by 0.3 of a percentage point to 4.2 per cent in the second quarter, the Office

for National Statistic (ONS), announced.

At the same time, pay increased at its fastest since records began, the ONS said. It grew by 7.8 per cent during the second quarter of this year, exceeding predictions and comfortably above the previous record

TESLA SPAIN’S sales rose 55 per cent last year, bringing a net profit of €2.64 million, 52.6 per cent more than in 2021.

The company is a subsidiary of Dutchregistered Tesla Motors Tesla Motors Netherlands BV, which in turn depends on Elon Musk’s parent company based in Delaware in the US.

Last year Tesla Spain distributed 4,607 vehicles, a 44.5 per cent increase on 2021 according to accounts submitted to the Registro Mercantil, equivalent to Companies House in the UK.

The increase was the result of the Spain’s expanding market for electric vehicles, assisted by government subsidies for non­polluting vehicles.

The company explained that energy costs had risen and some raw materials

VAT spat

JEWELLERY brand Pandora was the latest retailer to call for VAT­free shopping for UK visitors.

Rasmus Brix, general manager for the UK and Ireland, said the firm was one of many that were missing out since PM Rishi Sunak jettisoned the tax break in 2021.

Around 350 businesses now back the Daily Mail’s Scrap the Tourist Tax campaign, prompting Brix to agree with the newspaper that getting rid of the tax would “significantly boost” the retail sector and the economy.

“This would help to offset some of the disruption we’re seeing as a result of the weather, cost­of­living and ongoing train strikes,” he said.

of 7.3 per cent.

The unanticipated increase encouraged traders to give 84 per cent odds that the Bank of England would announce a further interest rate rise of a quarter of a percentage point to 5.5 per cent next month. Others spoke of a

16 per cent likelihood of a bigger, half­point hike to 5.75 per cent.

Interest rates are forecast to reach a 6 per cent peak next February, higher than the 5.75 per cent that was foreseen before Tuesday’s labour market report was released.

Responding to fears that pay increases would generate a wage­price spiral, the UK’s prime minister Rishi Sunak declared that bringing down inflation was his “number one priority”.

There was “light at the end of the tunnel” in the cost­of­living crisis, the PM insisted.

Positive charge for Tesla

Sales of Model 3 fell by 4 per cent, but still accounted for 59 per cent of the total with 2,736 vehicles. In contrast, Model Y sales rose by 464 per cent to 1,828 vehicles, with Model S and Model X responsible for just 1 per cent.

So far in 2023, Tesla Spain has sold 2,048 cars, 45.35 per cent more than during the same period in 2022.

THE billionaire owners of Asda and the EG Group of petrol stations are selling off US convenience stores to settle billions of pounds of debt.

Brothers Mohsin and Zuber Issa sold 63 EG Group­owned shops in Kentucky and Tennessee to the Casey’s General Stores chain for an undisclosed amount.

News of the US sales coincided with Moody’s warning on August 15 that Asda, which the Issas bought for £6.8 billion (€7.93 billion) in 2021, was under intense pressure owing to competition in the grocery industry.

EG Group’s debts stood at $9.67 billion (€8.96 billion) by late 2022, company accounts showed.

Wrong calls

were now more expensive owing to the Ukraine war. The impact of the conflict on its finances depended on “future events which could not be predicted with accuracy,” sources added.

Banks want interest

THE Spanish government dismantled the failed Castor underwater gas storage plant off Vinaros (Castellon) in 2019.

The controversial plans were abandoned after the installation caused 4.1 earthquakes and tremors that were felt on land for weeks. In October 2020, the National High Court in Madrid ruled that Santander, CaixaBank and Bankia (subsequently merged with CaixaBank) were entitled to €1.35 billion compensation.

The ruling excluded interest, which the banks immediately decided to fight for, a battle they have not yet won. The National High Court recently threw out Santander and CaixaBank’s appeals against an earlier ruling that rejected their separate claims for interest which amounted to €100.12 million between them.

It is not yet known whether the banks intend to appeal against the latest ruling or intend to continue taking legal action.

Turnover reached €229.2 million, 51 per cent more than last year while income from services rose almost fourfold to 244.6 per cent to €112 million. The company paid €894,087 in corporation tax last year, compared with €595,590 in 2021.

Making hay

SPANISH hay as well as wheat and other grains has been hit by drought.

Hay is one of Spain’s lesserknown exports, although producers habitually supply markets in North Africa, the Persian Gulf, Taiwan and Japan.

This season they face problems in supplying their traditional clients owing to high prices and lack of supplies, said the owner of Nual, a company in Arenillas de Muño (Burgos).

Another producer, Europaja, estimated that not only would it have difficulty in meeting its export orders, but imports would increase with hay fetching €12 a kilo at source and fodder costing 40 cents a kilo.

NATWEST was ranked Britain’s worst bank for repaying fraud victims. Recently hit by the debanking scandal, NatWest rejected more than 5,000 fraud compensation claims since 2020, according to the Telegraph. Approximately 3,300 NatWest resolutions were later overturned by the Financial Ombudsman Service, with the bank making the wrong decision in 54.4 per cent of cases.

Santander, which erroneously rejected 53.6 per cent of customers’ claims, was ranked second­worst. It was followed by HSBC, which the Ombudsman Service considered had wrongly rejected 53 per cent of fraud victims’ requests for compensation.

Basques in US

US president Joe Biden visited the Milwaukee (Wisconsin) plant of Basque­headquartered Ingeteam on August 16.

Biden was received by Alex Belaustegui, Corporate Development director of the firm which specialises in energy conversion. It has now produced more than 4,000 generators for the wind­energy sector and supplied four gigawatts of solar and energy storage inverters for the US market.

Contracts for an additional 1.1 gigawatts for the same sector are in the execution stage and scheduled to be installed by end of the 2004’s first quarter.

INTEREST RATES: Bank of England expected to announce hike in September.

ELON MUSK: Founder of Tesla, whose Spanish profits are on the increase.

Photo credit: CC/James Mitchell

Photo credit: CC/Steve Jurvetson

DOW JONES

Soft loans

GIBRALTAR’S Minister for Business, Vijay Daryanani announced the launch of the Gibraltar Enterprise Scheme, an initiative providing soft bank loans for startups and existing small businesses operating for less than three years. Participating banks are Trusted Novus Bank and Gibraltar International Bank, and the scheme will be fully guaranteed by the Gibraltar government.

New role

OSCAR­WINNING compos­

er Hans Zimmer, Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner of the Working Title film company have purchased the BBC’s Maida Vale studio for £10.5 million (€12.28 million). The new owners intend to convert the building, which has hosted famous stars from the Beatles to David Bowie and Adele, into a school for aspiring musicians.

Malhotra steps down

HARVEY NICHOLS’ chief executive Manju Malhotra is not leaving due to an alleged dispute with the store’s shareholder as extensively reported by the media.

“The Group would like to reiterate that this is incorrect,” a Harvey Nichols spokesperson told the Euro Weekly News on Tuesday August 15.

“The departure is on amicable terms with Manju working her notice period to ensure a smooth transition. “It is also incorrect that

Harvey Nichols is owned by Dickson Concepts, which is

Spain down under

A SUBSIDIARY of Spanish engineering and infrastructure company ACS won a six­year

AU$500 million (€300 million) contract with Australia’s Department of Defence.

UGL, now part of ACS’s CIMIC Group, will provide services covering strategic advice, supply management, operations, and maintenance for the Australian Defence Force’s fuel network.

The Spanish parent company announced

recently that UGL has secured five further contracts worth AU$600 million (€370 million) with Australian energy and mining firms. These include constructing two additional processing trains for US company, Albemarle, at its Kemerton lithium hydroxide plant. This will enable Albemarle to increase lithium production to an annual 100,000 metric tons, facilitating the manufacture of an estimated 2.4 million electric vehicles each year.

Digi does it

a listed company in Hong Kong. Harvey Nichols is owned by Sir Dickson Poon in his private capacity,” the statement continued.

“Any investment made in Harvey Nichols in recent years is from Sir Dickson Poon in a private capacity, and not Dickson Concepts.”

Having joined Harvey Nichols in 1998 as a newlyqualified chartered accountant, Manju Malhotra held several roles prior to becoming Group Finance Director in 2010.

She was promoted to the role of co ­ chief Operating Officer in 2018, with joint responsibility for leading the business before promotion to chief executive in January 2020.

“I have had the most amazing 25 years at Harvey Nichols,” she said. “I have been fortunate to work with many wonderfully talented people and partners both in the UK and internationally.”

DIGI, the Spanish subsidiary of the Romaniabased telecoms operator, reported revenues of €299.7 million during the first half of this year, 30.9 per cent more than during the same period in 2022. The low ­ cost company now has 5.7 million clients, 1.4 million of whom moved to the company over the past year, an increase of 33 per cent.

Back on track

MARKS & SPENCER could reenter the FTSE 100 after its market capitalisation surpassed £4.3 billion (€5.028 billion) as shares soared to a 19month high. Thanks to providing England’s Lionesses with their non­ sports uniform, plus increased holiday wear, homeware and food sales, M&S’s April­ August turnover has grown by 6 per cent when compared with the same period last year.

HARVEY NICHOLS: London’s iconic and luxurious department store.

Photo credit: CC/Jordi Ferrer

An absolutely brilliant service

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

THOUGHT I’d scribe events by way of a change this week. In truth this last year has been a bit of a medical nightmare. Some months ago I experienced a fall while walking de dawg, which resulted in a brain bleed. I then broke a leg in the garden.

Shortly after, I received a marvellous (Bionic Man!) heart pacemaker. The final disaster found me tripping over on a dodgy terrace, which resulted in a broken shoulder. (Ooh ooh the pain).

Worry not; the ol boy isn’t looking for sympathy, I just need to state loudly and clearly, that throughout the whole sequence of events, the Spanish hospital and medical staff have been absolutely brilliant.

Personally I have had no experience of services on the Spanish mainland, but can categorically assure everyone that on this beautiful island of Mallorca, the whole National Health Organisation is first class.

Emergency staff, doctors, nurses and (as we speak) physio workers, plus the speed of the appointments simply can’t be faulted. I would like to thank every single one of them for the care and treatment I have received and am still experiencing. Thank the Lord I didn’t go through it all in the UK.

I can imagine even the very waiting periods would have been horrendous. In their endeavours to keep the whole British nation on a knife edge before the next election, I have no doubt the NH unions, in solid league with the Labour party, are fully delighted to see medical staff packing the streets with derogatory placards; while the long suffering patients experience fully extended periods of suffering, cementing a determination to vote against the conservative party next year.

Ninety nine per cent of the staff in the Balearics are Spanish national locals and you can literally feel the bond this creates throughout the whole organisation. Absolutely nothing like the attitudes and often sheer chaos that ensues throughout the UK system of immigrant workers and racial or political disharmony.

FOOTBALL FREEDOM OUR VIEW

One colleague of mine informed me that many of the main floor workers are so low in intellect they have to move them to different departments, because to actually fire them would result in an uproar of racism accusations. Heaven help the lot of ‘em.

And thank the lord for heaven consistently helping the wonderful health workers of Spain.

This now remarkably fit 84­year­old ex­patient will be forever in your debt. In this week’s final note, let’s just hope that the result of the horrific case of UK nurse Lucy Letby also ensues in sackings and resignations from responsible health workers, staff and police who should have detected something amiss far earlier.

And make certain that this maniac baby killer doesn’t finish up being mollycoddled in some cosy country institution.

Thanks for all your letters. I can’t reply to them all, but believe me I read every one. Keep the faith

Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com expatradioscotland.com

Mon. and Fri. 1pm till 4

THERE is no question that women’s football has really come of age and the international interest just keeps growing.

With our links with England and our base in Spain, it was very appropriate that the final should have been contested between eventual winners Spain and England.

Unless you are a dyed in the wool supporter of either team, the outcome wasn’t really that important, with the way in which the women’s version of the sport has grown in stature so quickly being more significant.

Certainly, the USA was for years the home of women’s football with large numbers of young women taking up the sport in college, perhaps because it isn’t as physically demanding as American Football and it can lay claim to being the true ‘beautiful game’.

It took much longer to take off in Europe and it wasn’t that long ago that FC Barcelona were being called out for booking the men’s team in business class and the women’s team on the same flight in economy.

England winning the European Trophy certainly helped promote the popularity and TV programmes such as Dorking ‘Til I Die which relates the role of Calum Best as Chairman of Dorking Wanderers FC Ladies helped to spotlight the growth on the women’s game in England.

Now that the new professional season has started again, expect to see larger crowds at women’s matches, but it will still take a long time for female players to have the same astronomic price tags as their male counterparts.

What is positive however is that there has been another area where the role of women in today’s society has seen the glass ceiling at least cracked if not shattered.

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

LETTERS

What do you think about this?

READERS will know that every week, Euro Weekly News publishes a column written by Leapy Lee who has a reputation for being outspoken and on some occasions his personal views cause division amongst our readers.

We have received just two letters disagreeing with his observations in his article ‘A Diverse Dilemma’ but feel it both appropriate and fair that we publish these missives (although one is slightly edited) so that readers can form their own opinion.

Please feel free to let us know your feelings on Leapy’s articles via info@euroweek lynews.com.

Freedom of speech

I read ‘A Diverse Dilemma’ by Leapy Lee 10 – 16 Aug edition, and was a little baffled about the issue that was being addressed.

While I may concede that there may be an issue with BAME actors playing a historical figure like Henry VIII, I don’t see what the issue is with adverts showing multicultural families. After all, we live in a multicultural society. What do you mean, “It smells like leftie missions to normalise racial relationships…” Are you suggesting that mixed race relationships are not normal and should be verboten? If so, where do you draw the line?

Lee then jumps to freedom of speech, suggesting that white people are not allowed to use their freedom of speech to comment on the above perceived misrepresentation in TV ads. You will be pleased to know that I am an advocate of freedom of speech too but that does not absolve the speaker from the consequences. So, if you come out with racist statements, one of the consequences is that others perceive you as a racist. I think what you are advocating is the right to be offensive without any consequences either formal or informal.

If Lee is such a strong advocate of the principle of freedom of speech, he could take a look at the current legislation passed by the right wing conservative government. They have passed Anti Strike Laws that will make striking illegal. Employers will be able to force people to work longer hours for example and sack them if they don’t agree. There have been people locked out of the electoral process ­ voter ID and the right to protest has been curtailed.

The statistics on knife crime quoted on face value may be correct but what are you implying? That the BAME population are genetically predisposed to knife crime? If you really believe this, I’d love to hear Lee defend that and retain any credibility.

Dr James Alexander published research in 2020 stating that knife crime is fuelled by poverty and social deprivation and BAME are twice as likely to live in such areas. The MET have been shown to be institutionally racist and their knife crime initiatives have targeted the BAME community disproportionately as research by Dr Elaine Williams from the University of Greenwich in 2022 states.

The UK is not heading to a China regime, we are already living in an Ultra­Right Conservative Dictatorship like Salazar’s Portugal!

Finally, I would love to see Lenny Henry play Henry VIII, he’d make a damned good job of it.

Old dinosaur

I am writing to express my disgust at the Leapy Lee article, you have distanced yourselves from said article, but have allowed him to print his dog whistle racist diatribe in your paper, he is an old dinosaur who should not be allowed to use your informative paper to promote his extremely racist ideas to the public, he deserves cancelling for his venomous thoughts on the general public, printing figures that suit his personal beliefs, seriously disappointing from a European paper.

New law

I don’t think the new animal welfare law is helping the animals that really need it. The law is not applicable to hunting dogs, who are the most abused and ill­treated. Also it says that dogs are not allowed to be kept on balconies or terraces, but nothing about being kept chained up 24/7, or confined to a small concrete cage in the garden.

Surely these are things that can be policed much easier than checking that someone has an insurance policy for their dog!!

Carol Smith

180-day rule

Why does everyone bang on about Spain not bringing in 180 days for UK visitors as has happened in the UK.

In the UK it only has to answer to itself for any changes, but all the EU states must agree to any change as above and there is not a snowball in hell’s chance that all will agree. I expect most Spaniards would be only too happy for this to happen as it brings in valuable income.

Roger Fell

PETS

PETS

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If you’re planning a trip register now as a member of our network to find an affordable home and pet care solution. Whether your trip is short or long, you’ll know that sometimes you must leave pets at home. Young and senior pets in particular benefit from staying at home, so they can follow their routines undisturbed. Join our pet and house­sitting network, and the sitters come for free!

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HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert saying when you are going on holiday. House sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter who’ll care for your pets.

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REFRESHING: From cleaning their feathers to frolicking in playful splashes.

FOR birds, the allure of water isn’t just about quenching thirst; it’s a portal to their natural inclinations, an avenue to exhibit instinctual behaviours.

Their connection to water extends beyond drinking, playing a pivotal role in their daily routines, from cleaning their feathers to frolicking in playful splashes. A basic, shallow dish with fresh water can be transformative. Strategically placed within their living space, it grants birds the

opportunity to wade, splash, and indulge in a refreshing bath. This not only aids in keeping their feathers in pristine condition but also offers a source of entertainment and exercise.

For those wishing to further mimic nature’s touch, consider a mister. The light, fine droplets it releases can simulate the gentle rainfall of a tropical rainforest, offering hydration and a whimsical playground for your avian companion. This subtle rain shower not only

moisturises their skin and feathers, but also brings a touch of the wild right into their domesticated environment.

However, it’s imperative to tailor water features to the specific needs and likes of your bird. While a parrot might enjoy a sprightly splash, a canary might prefer the serene calm of still water. Observing and understanding your bird’s preferences ensures that the water feature enhances their quality of life.

Pet photography

THE art of capturing character photographing pets isn’t merely about getting them to sit still in front of a camera. It’s about capturing a fleeting

their entire personality. How do you encapsulate the spirit of a being that communicates more through gestures and purrs than words? The magic often lies in the subtleties. Think about the warmth of the early morning sun filtering through the window, casting a golden hue on your cat’s fur. Natu­

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

ral lighting doesn’t just illuminate; it accentuates, lending depth and richness to your images. And unlike the harshness of a flash, it won’t startle your pet or mar the photo with the dreaded red­eye.

However, it’s not just about the environment. Perspective plays a pivotal role. Imagine viewing the world from the eyes of your pet. Dropping down to their eye level creates an intimacy in the shot, turning it from a mere photo into a story. Yet, for all the preparation, sometimes the most magical shots are unplanned. Pets, much like us, have their candid moments of unguarded emotion.

Patience then becomes the photographer’s best tool. Waiting for that spontaneous yawn or playful leap can lead to unexpectedly perfect captures. To add a dash of playfulness or context, introduce familiar toys or props. They not only divert and engage your pet, but also add layers to your story.

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ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS IS ALCOHOL COSTING YOU MORE THAN MONEY? Drinking to excess not only affects your health it can spill over into every other aspect of your life - damaging everything that is important to you. English-speaking AA meetings are held throughout the Costa Blanca from Valencia City to Murcia. Anyone wishing to attend a meeting or discuss a possible drinking problem contact Costa Blanca North: 648 169 045 or Costa Blanca South: 625 912 078 or Costa Calida 679 385 105 All calls are treated in the strictest confidence. AA in German: 645 456 075; Spanish: 679 212 535; Flemish: 635 047 053; and Scandinavian: 659 779 222. www.aa-costablanca.org

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Alcaraz defeated Season kick-off

Catherine McGeer

AFTER a three hour and 50 minute match Novak Djokovic beat Carlos Alcaraz 5­7, 7­6, 7­6 in the Cincinnati final. Djokovic, often referred to as an unyielding force in the tennis world, showcased his legendary determination by overcoming a set deficit, a 4­2 disadvantage, and even a match point at 6­5 in the tiebreak.

The final itself made history becoming the longest best­of­three­set final since 1990, lasting a gruelling three hours and 50 minutes. The contest played out in scorching 34degree heat, a challenge even for Djokovic, who sought medical intervention during the match.

The statistics highlighted Djokovic’s tenacity, as he capitalised on Alcaraz’s unforced errors and clinched crucial breaks at pivotal moments. The Spanish prodigy Alcaraz demonstrated his formidable skills, but a fleeting lapse allowed Djokovic to seize control and drive the match into a tiebreak.

The win marked Djokovic’s 39th

Masters 1,000 title and 95th title overall, inching him closer to records held by tennis legends. With the US

Yecla’s winner

REAL MURCIA fans are gearing up for an exciting start to the 2023 ­ 24 season as they will travel to Granada for the first match of the season. Despite the match’s rescheduled timing from 7.30pm to 9.30pm on Sunday, August 27, the Peñas Federation has successfully organised two buses for the trip to Los Cármenes stadium.

Murcia supporters are excited for the new season their enthusiasm fuelled by the club’s dynamic sporting management under Javier Recio and the fresh leadership of President Felipe Moreno.

The anticipation builds as Real Murcia assembles a formidable squad, attracting talents like Manu García, Ángel Montoro, José Ángel Carrillo, and Rodri Ríos to complement existing stars such as Pedro León, Julio Gracia, and Dani Romera.

As the transfer market unfolds, the team’s potential for promotion becomes increasingly evident.

This excitement is mirrored in their strong season ticket sales, surpassing 10,000 members.

Open on the horizon, Djokovic’s win sets the stage for an exciting tournament to come.

The club’s vibrant following will make a strong presence at their opening league match against Recreativo Granada.

SPAIN men’s national walking football team hope to emulate the ladies World Cup success this week when they travel to the UK to participate on the International stage, looking to lift walking football’s biggest prize.

A 12 man squad picked from sides competing on the Costa del Sol and Alicante region lock horns with England, Wales and the Czech Republic amongst others in a tough looking group.

Despite an unkind draw the team’s player/manager, Mark Coleman, was positive in his thoughts ahead of the World Cup Of Nations tournament held at the HQ

Off to the UK

of English football, St George’s Park.

“We go with high aspirations and feel that we can get to the knockout stages , that’s our minimum objective, to do well would really boost this football format and encourage participation in Spain.”

The tournament starts today, Thursday August 24Saturday August 26 and Spains matches are being shown live on the Recast TV App.

Cartagena’s 2nd defeat

PRIDE swept through the streets of Yecla as the town celebrated its local hero, footballer Eva Navarro, who played a pivotal role in Spain’s triumph at the Women’s World Cup. The small town gathered to support Navarro and the Spanish national team, with hundreds of people gathering at the municipal auditorium and Quimera bar to witness the historic final.

Yecla’s Quimera bar, a symbolic venue for Navarro’s family during finals, echoed with the sounds of ‘Qué viva España’ as supporters cheered on their nation’s team. Eva Navarro’s mother, Eva García, watched on proudly wearing her daughter’s number 15 national team jersey.

She watched the first half of the match alongside the mayor and then joined the spirited crowd at the Quimera cafeteria. When the final whistle blew, the town erupted in joy, tears, and hugs, celebrating Spain’s win.

FC CARTAGENA faced their second defeat when they travelled to the Estadi Nacional in Andorra la Vella to face FC Andorra.

With a depleted squad, a handful of new players, and the announcement of the sudden departure of Toni Datkovic, the team battled on under difficult circumstances.

Despite withstanding early pressure and creating chances in the first half, Andorra’s Manu Nieto secured a hat ­ trick

in the second half which left Cartagena struggling. Cartagena scored from a penalty and new signing Ayllón scored his debut goal in the 94th minute, but it was enough to beat the team owned by Gerard Pique. Cartagena, led by coach Victor del Amo, awaits crucial signings to bolster their roster if they hope to compete in Spain’s La Liga Hypermotion and fight for promotion to Spain’s top tier of football La Liga.

Second defeat of the season against Andorra.

Image: X/@FCCartagena_efs

Image: X/ @CincyTennis

Eva Navarro celebrating the win.

Image: X/@FIFAWWC

Djokovic staged a remarkable comeback to claim Cincinnati victory.